Beirut Weather in December

December weather

Beirut feels mild in December, but winter rain can interrupt plans. Days reach around 18°C, with cooler evenings and rain on 11 days on average. You'll still get some sunny spells, so the Corniche is pleasant for a walk when the pavement's dry. The sea is usually too chilly for a comfortable swim, and wet, cloudy days can make long outdoor sightseeing less appealing.

If you hate crowds, December is quieter than the spring and autumn peak months.

Christmas in Beirut

Christmas brings decorations and celebrations to parts of the city, especially around churches and central Beirut. You may hear services and carols, while restaurants and bars often have a festive feel around Christmas and New Year. Lebanon has several Christian communities, so Christmas traditions can vary.

Holiday evenings can be livelier than the rest of the month, but December isn't generally Beirut's busiest time. It's winter low season, so visitor numbers and prices are often lower than in the popular spring, autumn and summer months. Expect a little more demand around the holidays, rather than peak-season crowds.

Make room for rainy days

December suits a city break built around food, museums and neighbourhood walks, with outdoor plans kept flexible. Try a warm bowl of lentil soup or a plate of mezze in Gemmayzeh when showers set in. The National Museum of Beirut is a useful rainy-day stop, with exhibits on Lebanon's history under one roof.

Travelling with kids? Keep the National Museum in reserve for a wet afternoon, then head to the Corniche when the clouds lift. If you're visiting the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque or nearby Martyrs' Square, check the weather first; rain can make a long stroll around the open square less appealing. Don't count on beach time: December is better for seeing the city than swimming.