Although Lebanon has an extensive and cheap public transport network, it is not easy to unravel their routes and timetables. There are many operating bus companies, such as the Lebanese Commuting Company (LCC) and OCFTC, all using a variety of buses.

There are large coaches, average-sized minibuses (blue, red and white) and minivans. To get on a bus, head for one of the bus stations or intersections, or wave one down like a taxi. Fares within the country range between 1,000 and 7,000 LBP and generally you pay upon boarding. It is advisable to check the applicable fair upfront as you will not be the first foreigner to pay more than required.
 
A detailed bus map of Beirut is still lacking, yet a private initiative called “The Bus Map Project” is working on one and even has a mobile application in process. On their Facebook page they also share a lot of useful information on bus routes and prices.

Bus Stations

Charles Helou Bus Station
This grey-looking bus station is hidden between the harbor and Gemmayzeh and on foot best to be reached via Saifi Urban Gardens. From there, buses to the north of Lebanon and international destinations (e.g. Damascus) are operated. Generally, tickets can be obtained at the ticket booths in the applicable zone (Zone A, B or C). The buses to destinations in Lebanon such as Jounieh, Byblos, Batroun and Tripoli, all leave from Zone C. Generally, these buses all pass Dowra (see below). The Connexion buses (+961 (0)6 626 969 / 424 933) here provide the best services, are well-organized and leave every 15 to 20 minutes. Show Location...
​
Below Charles Helou Avenue
Rmeil

Cola Intersection (Cola)
From this large intersection southeast of Beirut, buses leave for destinations in the south of Lebanon, such as the Shouf (Dmit, Barouk and Beiteddine), Saida (Sidon) and Tyre (Sour); and in the Beqaa Valley (Chtaura, Zahle and Baalbek). Show Location...

Al Moukawama Wal Tahreer Square
Mar Elias

Dawra
From the large roundabout of Dowra (spelled ‘Dora’ on the road signs), most buses leave for destinations in the north of Lebanon, such as Byblos, Jounieh, Batroun, Beit Mery, Broummana and Tripoli. Returning from these northern destinations, you are most probably dropped off at Dowra as well. To return to Beirut from Dowra, take a minibus that passes the Charles Helou bus station, leaves in the direction of Cola (bus 6 and 15), or toward Achrafieh and Hamra (bus 2). Show Location...

Dowra Highway
Near Burj Hammoud