Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) to Beirut
There is no train or reliable public bus from Beirut airport, so most visitors take a taxi, a ride-hailing car or a hotel transfer. The drive to central Beirut, Hamra or Gemmayzeh takes about 15–30 minutes.
Check your government's current travel advice for Lebanon before you go; the situation can change quickly.
Best for most people: Ride-hailing. App-based cars show the price upfront, which avoids negotiating with drivers on arrival.
All the options
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Hours | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| taxi Airport taxis at the rank outside Arrivals | about 15–30 min | about US$25–40 to central Beirut | 24 h | Airport taxis are more expensive than city taxis; agree the fare before you leave. | |
| ride-hailing Uber operates in Beirut; request a car from the pick-up area outside Arrivals | about 15–30 min | usually cheaper than airport taxis | 24 h | Availability and pick-up rules can change; follow the app's instructions. | |
| private transfer Hotel pick-up or pre-booked transfer | about 15–30 min | similar to taxis | booked in advance | The easiest choice for late-night arrivals. |
*Approximate 2026 prices and times. Services change: check the operator before you fly, especially for late arrivals.
Sort it before you land
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Tips
- US dollars are widely used for taxis and hotels; carry small notes.
- Traffic on the airport road and in the city can be heavy at peak times.
- Have your hotel's address and phone number ready to show the driver.
- Confirm whether a quoted fare is in dollars or Lebanese pounds.
Common questions
How much is a taxi from Beirut airport?
Airport taxis to central Beirut, Hamra or Achrafieh usually cost about US$25–40, more than city taxis. Agree the price before getting in and confirm the currency. Uber is often cheaper and shows the fare upfront. Many hotels offer pick-ups for a similar price.
Is there public transport from Beirut airport?
There is no train, and public buses are informal and not practical for arriving visitors with luggage. Almost everyone uses an airport taxi, a ride-hailing app such as Uber, or a transfer arranged by their hotel. The journey to the centre takes about 15–30 minutes.
How long does it take to reach the city centre?
Central Beirut is about 9 km from the airport. Without traffic the drive takes about 15 minutes, but at busy times it can be 30 minutes or more. Allow extra time for areas further north, such as Jounieh or Byblos, which are 40–60 minutes or more away.
Can I pay by card?
Cash is still the norm in Lebanon, and US dollars are widely accepted for taxis and many services. Ride-hailing apps charge a stored card or allow cash, depending on settings. Carry small dollar notes and confirm the currency of any quoted price before you travel.
Compiled by TonyPlan from airport and transport-operator information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.