Things To Do
in Joünié
Joünié, commonly known as Jounieh, is a historic coastal town just north of Beirut, perched along the Mediterranean and framed by rugged hills. It blends a lively waterfront with scenic viewpoints, a buzzing souk-like atmosphere in Kaslik, and easy access to mountain escapes. The town is famous for its harbour, sea views, the cable car to Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa, and a welcoming Levantine vibe.
Nearby Byblos and Jeita offer ancient ruins and natural wonders that enrich a short visit with culture and nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Jounieh’s airport or port and settle into your charming seaside hotel. Feel the gentle Mediterranean breeze as you unpack and freshen up for the day ahead. Wander out to the bustling Corniche to witness fishermen hauling in their morning catch.
Treat yourself to fresh mezze at a waterfront cafe while admiring the turquoise bay. Explore winding alleys filled with colorful street art and friendly locals selling sweets and crafts. Pause for a refreshing lemon mint juice under the shade of swaying palm trees.
As the sun dips below the horizon, take a leisurely walk along the lit promenade. Visit a cozy restaurant serving freshly caught seafood paired with local wine. End the night listening to live oud music drifting from a seaside lounge.
Catch the panoramic Téléphérique up to Harissa and marvel at breathtaking views of Jounieh Bay. Wander through shaded paths to the statue of Our Lady of Lebanon and soak in the serene atmosphere. Listen to the echo of bells from the basilica perched high above the sea.
Descend back to town for a traditional Lebanese lunch at a hillside restaurant overlooking the coast. Sample smoky grilled meats, fresh tabbouleh, and creamy hummus in vibrant outdoor seating. Engage with locals as they share stories of faith and folklore tied to the sanctuary.
Return to Jounieh for a sunset cruise departing from the marina, watching the sky turn pink over the water. Indulge in mezze platters on deck and toast with arak under starlit skies. Let gentle waves and distant city lights lull you into a peaceful evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $3-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and easy access to mountain escapes
- Warm, hospitable locals and rich cuisine
- Close to Beirut with excellent day-trip opportunities to Byblos and Jeita
- Diverse activities from boat tours to cable-car views
- Traffic can be heavy near Beirut during peak hours
- Prices can be higher in tourist areas during peak season
- Economic volatility may affect services and availability
- Safety advisories can change; always check current guidance
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlak / Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam althaman?" - What is the price?
- "La shukran" - No thank you
Places to Visit in Joünié
Visit one of these nice places.
Great for sunset shots, harbor activity, and the contrast between sea, boats, and the hillside backdrop.
Iconic statue with sweeping bay views; ideal for panoramas and religious architecture photography.
Dramatic limestone formations; indoor photography is allowed in guided sections.
Vibrant street scenes, colorful stalls, and authentic Lebanese daily life.
Nearby ancient port area with historic stone architecture, fish markets, and narrow lanes.
Food in Joünié
Joünié Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spread of small dishes including hummus, moutabal, baba ghanoush, grape leaves, and fresh Lebanese salads.
Must-Try!
Fish and rice dish cooked with onions, spices, and fried onions on top; a coastal staple often found near harbors.
Raw or lightly cooked bulgur-stuffed meat; ask for freshness and preparation style.
Freshly caught fish grilled and served with lemon and herbs, commonly available at seaside eateries.
Flatbread topped with za'atar spice blend and olive oil; a popular breakfast or snack option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market area with fresh produce, herbs, breads, and small eateries; great for a quick bite before the beach.
Seasonal stalls along the waterfront offering grilled halloumi, fish sandwiches, falafel, and sweet pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshakes are common among men; women may greet with a kiss on each cheek in familiar circles; hospitality is central, and offering coffee or tea is customary.
Dress modestly in religious sites and villages; remove shoes where required in mosques or churches; ask before photographing people in private settings.
Polite conversation about family and food; avoid aggressive debate in public; small talk about travel is welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Joünié
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10-15% service charge is common where not included in the bill; feel free to tip more for exceptional service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; cash is handy for small stalls and markets; ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with cooling sea breezes along the coast; peak crowds around the waterfront; stay hydrated and use sunscreen; best time for seaside activities and sunset photography.
Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds; comfortable for hiking in the hills and exploring street markets.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; some outdoor venues close after sunset; rain gear is useful for coastal walks.
Blooming landscapes, clear skies, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and photography along the coast and hills.
Joünié at Night
Hiking in Joünié
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge trails offering coastal vistas and sunset viewpoints; moderate difficulty.
Ancient gorge region with multiple trekking options a few hours’ drive away.
Airports
How to reach Joünié by plane.
Beirut’s main international gateway, located about 25–35 minutes by car from Jounieh depending on traffic; frequent domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group with diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.
Significant minority presence contributing to cultural diversity.
Visitors and residents reflecting Lebanon’s global connections.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; games and leagues are common throughout Lebanon.
Widely followed; local clubs and schools host matches and training.
Kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing are popular along the coast near Jounieh.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Joünié.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lebanese cuisine naturally offers abundant vegetarian mezze and salads. Look for dishes like hummus, mujadara, tabbouleh, and fattoush. Ask for olive oil as the base and request no meat stock in soups or sauces.