How to Reach Temple of the Obelisks, Byblos Old Town, Lebanon
Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, can be found along the coast of Lebanon. The Temple of the Obelisks is one of its key historical attractions. Here's how to get there:
By Air
The nearest airport to Byblos is the Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY). Upon arrival at the airport, you can opt for the following methods of transport to reach Byblos:
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport and are a convenient, although sometimes more expensive, option. A taxi ride to Byblos typically takes about 40 minutes to an hour depending on traffic.
- Car Rental: Renting a car might be economical if you plan on exploring more of Lebanon. You can find several car rental agencies at the airport or online before your trip.
- Buses or Shuttles: There are various private buses and shuttle services to Byblos, which can be more cost-effective than taxis. They usually operate from central Beirut, so you would need to get to the city center from the airport first.
By Road
If you're traveling by road, Byblos is approximately 37 kilometers north of Beirut. To reach Byblos:
- Follow the coastal highway, Lebanon's main north-south highway, heading north.
- The signs along the road are both in Arabic and English, and Byblos is well indicated.
- Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and you will be passing through several cities and small towns before reaching Byblos.
- Parking is available in the city, although it can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
By Public Transit
Public transportation is a bit less organized, but these options can be considered:
- Buses: Buses run regularly between Beirut and Byblos from Charles Helou Bus Station or Dora Roundabout in Beirut. These buses are relatively inexpensive.
- Service Taxis (Shared Taxis): These are shared taxis that operate on specific routes and are a cheaper alternative to private taxis. You'll need some flexibility and local assistance, as the departure is when the taxi fills up.
Once in Byblos, you can easily walk to the historic old town and the Temple of the Obelisks as the town is quite compact.
Note: Transportation options may vary, and it is advisable to check ahead for the latest schedules and services.