Kerry Higgins

Beirut exudes an air of organised chaos: high-octane, full of contradictions, a head-on collision of the senses. Sights change, bars pop up and restaurants reinvent themselves on a weekly basis, but one certainty is that you’ll never be wanting for things to do in Beirut.No matter where you are in Lebanon’s capital, you’ll feel like you’ve been dropped smack-bang in the centre of the action – whether that be in the glamorous environs of Saudi-funded Downtown, the bustling streets of Hamra or the oh-so-hip bars of Mar Mikhael. Whatever it is that you’re looking for, rest safe in the knowledge that the city’s got your back: it’s a place that caters to all appetites, serving up everything from remnants of prehistoric settlements to all-night parties. History, hedonism, and a whole lot of hummus: Beirut’s got a treat in store for you. Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. You can also find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world, or take a look at our list of the 50 best things to do in the world right now.

The big spenders have their perches in the five-star complexes along the seafront, and the backpackers can choose from a broadening range of hostels and B&Bs. But on first glance, it's not always clear where to go for a room that offers all mod cons and a dash of personality without breaking the bank. That's where we come in. Whether you're keen on intimate family-run establishments or it's an outdoor pool you're after, our list of the 10 best mid-range hotels in Beirut will see to your needs. Thank us later.