Beirut isn't exactly the kind of city where you can buy a three-day tourist card, hop on the metro and tick off the famous sights one by one – for starters there is no tourist card, the metro is still in the 'planning' stages and what could be considered typical tourist sights (ie your Eiffel Towers, London Bridges, Roman Colosseums, etc) are few and far between. However, what the city does have is a unique story down every virtually street, and there's no better way to for a visitor to get their first introduction to Beirut's various stories and intriguing history (both ancient and modern), discover hidden spots that you'd never find otherwise or find out what some of that cool graffiti is all about, than by joining the weekly Alternative Tour Beirut. In fact, even locals and long-time expats could probably learn a thing or two from the passionate co-founders Moustafa and Sophie, as they explore the city's streets, alleyways, villas and abandoned buildings.

Reservations aren't necessary, as tours depart each Saturday at 12:00 from the top of St Nicholas Stairs in Gemmayze. Just make sure to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes, as tours cover some serious kilometres and last for around four hours.