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Transportation in Lebanon: Public Transit, Taxis, Apps, and Car Rental

Transportation in Lebanon: Public Transit, Taxis, Apps, and Car Rental

Transportation in Lebanon

Lebanon offers a range of transportation options, including public buses, private taxis, ride-hailing apps, and car rentals. There are no metro, tram, or domestic flight services. Most intercity travel is by road, with limited train infrastructure.

  • Public Transport: Buses are the main public transport, operated by OCFTC (state-owned) and private companies. Major routes connect Beirut with Tripoli, Sidon, and Tyre.
  • Transportation Apps: Uber and Bolt are available in Beirut and some other cities. Local app Careem also operates in Lebanon.
  • Internal Flights: No domestic flights; Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport is the main international gateway.
  • Trains: No operational passenger train services as of 2024.
  • Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Taxis are widely available. Fares are usually negotiated in advance or metered in some cases. Shared taxis (service) follow fixed routes and rates.
  • Car Rental: International and local agencies operate in major cities and airports. An international driving permit is recommended for foreign drivers.
  • Tourist Recommendations: From the airport to Beirut city center, taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most common options. Public buses are less frequent and may not serve all routes.
  • Accessibility: Public transport is generally not fully accessible for travelers with disabilities. Private taxis and some hotels may offer accessible vehicles upon request.
  • Unique Local Transport: Teleferique (cable car) operates between Jounieh and Harissa.
  • Safety & Payment: Transport is generally safe. Payment is usually in cash (Lebanese pound or US dollars). Ride-hailing apps accept card payments.

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