Historic Ottoman and French Mandate house-lined street of bars, cafes and bakeries, rebuilt after the 2020 blast.
Gemmayzeh is Beirut's best-known evening district, strung along Rue Gouraud and Armenia Street at the edge of Achrafieh. Its old Lebanese houses have red tile roofs and arched windows, and the Saint Nicolas Stairs provide a popular approach to the neighbourhood. Many buildings were badly damaged in the port blast of 4 August 2020 and were restored by local NGOs and owners. Cafes, bakeries and bars have returned, though some venues have changed since 2020 and 2024, so use a current map app before choosing a restaurant. Visitors come for Lebanese food, drinks and photography. The street is lively from Thursday to Saturday nights and quieter in the mornings, when the bakeries open. Taxis are easy to flag near the main road.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Street district; cafes and bars generally 09:00 to late; busiest after 19:00 |
| Typical visit | 1 to 3 hours |
| Best time | Early evening |
| Getting there | Taxi or ride-hail to Rue Gouraud (about 10 minutes from Hamra); on foot from the Sursock Museum 10 minutes |
| Address | Armenia Street (Rue Gouraud), Gemmayzeh, Beirut |
Location
Armenia Street (Rue Gouraud), Gemmayzeh, Beirut
33.8960, 35.5155 View on map
Highlights
- Restored Ottoman and French Mandate houses
- Saint Nicolas Stairs
- Cafes, bakeries and bars
- Close to the Sursock Museum
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the late afternoon to see both daylight architecture and evening life.
- Check a map app for current openings; some venues closed after the blast.
- Pavements are narrow and traffic is heavy; walk carefully.
- Use ride-hail after midnight.
When to visit
Early evening, Thursday to Saturday.
Accessibility
Pavements are narrow and uneven; the stairs are not step-free.
Frequently asked questions
What is Gemmayzeh known for?
Historic houses, bars, cafes and Lebanese bakeries.
Was it damaged in the blast?
Yes, in 2020, and most facades have since been restored.
Is it walkable to other sights?
Yes, to the Sursock Museum and Mar Mikhael.