Couple traveling together

What to Wear for a Winter Trip to Lebanon

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Got a winter trip planned to Lebanon? Lebanon can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 64°F (that's 18°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Lebanon, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Lebanon in winter—whether you're visiting the ancient city of Baalbek, exploring the Beqaa Valley, hiking in the Cedars of God, or visiting the Jeita Grotto.

What to wear for a winter trip to Lebanon

What should women wear in Lebanon in winter?

Lebanon in winter is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: long-sleeved shirts, jeans, long skirts, cardigans, and sneakers or loafers. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Lebanon has to offer. Keep in mind that Lebanon is culturally conservative, so it's important to dress modestly too.

Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Lebanon, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Here are some of my favorites:

Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Lebanon, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

Long skirts

Many women pack skirts as a staple for their travel wardrobe, but often overlook the long skirt. Though less popular than their shorter counterparts, long skirts offer a number of advantages that make them ideal for travel. For one, they tend to be more versatile than short skirts, as they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. They also offer more coverage, which can be important in hot weather or when exploring more conservative cultures like Lebanon. And don't forget, long skirts are often more comfortable than shorter styles, as they are not going to ride up or constrict movement.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Lebanon in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Lebanon. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to pack. And, when you're on your feet all day, they can help prevent aches and pains. But how do you know which sneakers or loafers to pack? If you'll be doing a lot of walking, opt for a sneaker with good arch support and cushioning. And don't forget style! Sneakers and loafers come in countless colors and designs, so pick something that goes with the rest of your outfits.

Here are some of my favorites:

What should men wear in Lebanon in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: lightweight pants, linen shirts, light jacket, sneakers or loafers, and cardigans. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Lebanon in comfort and style. While you won't need to be quite so covered as the ladies, it's still a good idea to respect cultural norms and not wear anything that would draw too much attention.

Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to Lebanon that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

Linen shirts

Packing for Lebanon can be a daunting task, but there are a few items that are essential for any trip. One of those items is a linen shirt. Linen is a light and airy fabric that is perfect for a variety of weather conditions. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing linen shirts for travel. First, consider the color. Linen tends to absorb sweat and can become stained quickly. Light colors will help to keep you cool, while dark colors mask any stains better. Also, choose a shirt with a loose fit. Linen shirts are not meant to be skin tight!

Any of these should work:

Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Lebanon, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Lebanon. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to pack. And, when you're on your feet all day, they can help prevent aches and pains. But how do you know which sneakers or loafers to pack? If you'll be doing a lot of walking, opt for a sneaker with good arch support and cushioning. And don't forget style! Sneakers and loafers come in countless colors and designs, so pick something that goes with the rest of your outfits.

Here are some of my favorites:

Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Lebanon in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

These are some of my favorites:

FAQs

Is winter a good time to go to Lebanon?

The weather in Lebanon is generally mild but wet in the winter, making it a good time to visit if you don't mind the weather. However, peak tourist season is in the summer, so if you prefer a lively vibe and warmer weather, stick to summer instead.

How do people typically dress in Lebanon in winter?

Lebanon has a Mediterranean climate, so the winters are mild. People typically dress in layers, with a coat or jacket for the cooler days. For special occasions, they might wear traditional clothing.

What should you NOT wear in Lebanon in winter?

Lebanon is culturally conservative, so you'll want to dress modestly to stay respectful. This generally means you should avoid wearing anything too revealing, at least outside of tourist resorts. And as Lebanon is a majority Muslim country, women should be prepared to cover their heads when necessary. As a general rule, take your cue from the locals: if people around you are mostly covered, you should cover up too.

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Lebanon will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Lebanon has to offer!