11 Things To Do On A Day Out In Tripoli

Lebanon’s second biggest city does not always get the love it deserves. If you’re looking to spend a day out in our northern star, we’ve compiled 11 fun activities for you to explore.

1. Visit the Rachid Karami International Fair Center

Designed by renowned Brazilian modernist architect Oscar Niemeyer in 1962, the center was loosely inspired by his earlier design for Brazil’s futuristic new capital, Brasilia. The fairground was built to house a planned permanent international fair, capable of accommodating up to 2 million visitors a year, including a grand exhibition hall, a national pavilion, and an outdoor concert stage. The center remains unfinished to this day, a monument to Lebanon’s lost dreams, and a definite stopping point on any trip to Lebanon.

2. Try a Kaake Traboulsiye

Apart from their unbeatable moghrabieh sandwich from Al Dabbousi, their kaake is a food staple that every visitor must try. You’ll find a street food vendor on every corner, but to properly enjoy your kaake, go to Sahet el Nour.

3. Relax by the Mina with the locals

People-watching at Tripoli’s wonderfully scenic Mina will perfectly transmit the essence of Tripoli. Watch as the local fishermen reel in their catch for the day and little kids play around and enjoy some bites from the vendors by the Mina.

4. Explore the old Souks

See if you can find some hidden gems or bargains in there to take back home with you. Apart from copping some amazing finds, a stroll through the old souks will have you mesmerized with its old architecture. You’re bound to make a friend or two on your journey because the locals are very friendly (and chatty).

5. Visit Khan Al Khyatin

You can expect to find some of best handmade and artisanal accessories here, so if you’re looking for a burst of unique fashion to light up your wardrobe, put it on your list. This visit will be particularly useful during the festive season because you’re bound to find a unique Christmas present for your loved one.

6. Go on a small trip to Rabbit Island

There are many ferry boats that will take you, and if the ferry ride doesn’t impress you enough, you’ll be amazed once you reach the island.

…please report back if you find rabbits.

7. Visit the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles

Built in the early 1000s, this fortress still stands today as a testament to Tripoli’s rich history. Although it takes its name from the Count of Toulouse and Crusader commander who contributed to its expansion, the structure was originally built by Arabian military commander Sefyan bin Moujib al Azadi.

8. Check out the abandoned train station

The story of Lebanon’s trains is quite a tragic one. If you’re tired of reading about it and want to see it yourself, head over and look at one of the best preserved abandoned stations in the country in Tripoli

9. Buy some natural handmade soap from Khan Al Saboun

They’ve been making soap since 1480, so we trust it’ll be good. Your teta will definitely enjoy these soaps as a gift, and make sure you grab a few for yourself.

10. Take a stroll down the bridge to Abdel Wahab Island

Tripoli has many islands on its coastline, and the closest one of them is Abdel Wahhab Island. We recommend grabbing some foul and hummus from a local spot and enjoy it by the waters.

11. Visit some of the city’s Hamams

Tripoli has a rich assortment of local hammams, like Al Abd and Izzadin, that you must check out.

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