Arthaus Beirut is a luxury design hotel in Gemmayzeh, the old quarter of narrow streets, red-roofed houses and lively dining just east of downtown. As the name suggests, art is central to the concept: the property includes a gallery and designer boutiques, and the interiors mix contemporary pieces with the character of a historic building. It offers four room categories, Standard, Classic, Executive Suite and Premium Suite, all with king beds, and the atmosphere is intimate rather than corporate. There is a terrace and garden, a seasonal outdoor pool open in the warmer months, a restaurant, a bar and lounge, and a coffee shop. The hotel also provides a daily manager's reception for guests, a 24-hour front desk, concierge service and luggage storage. Air conditioning and free internet in public areas keep things comfortable. Local breakfast is available for a charge, and the neighbourhood has many cafes if you prefer to eat out.
Gemmayzeh is one of the most appealing parts of Beirut for visitors. Saifi Village is about five minutes on foot, the Beirut Souks around twelve, and the neighbourhood's streets are full of bars, galleries and restaurants, with many options within a minute or two of the door. The Stairs of Saint Nicholas, decorated with art, lead up toward Achrafieh and the Sursock Museum, so a morning of culture is easy to organise on foot. The airport is about eighteen minutes by car.
There are some practical points to check before you book. The building has no elevator, so rooms on upper floors involve stairs, and the property does not accept children or pets. Valet parking is limited and charged per night, and the airport shuttle costs extra. Gemmayzeh can be lively in the evenings, with music from nearby bars, so ask for a quiet room if that matters to you. Check-in is in the afternoon and check-out around noon.
Arthaus suits couples, creative travellers and anyone who values character over scale. It has been recognised in international travel lists for its style, and guests tend to praise the staff and the atmosphere. For an evening, enjoy the garden or terrace, then stroll to dinner. For the day trips to Byblos, Jeita or Baalbek, the concierge can arrange guides. If you want to sleep inside a work of art in the middle of Beirut's most characterful dining district, this hotel is a fine choice.
Why stay here
- ✓Art gallery and designer stores
- ✓Terrace and garden
- ✓Seasonal outdoor pool
- ✓Restaurant, bar and cafe
- ✓Four king-bed room categories
- ✓24-hour front desk and concierge
- ✓Daily manager reception
- ✓Walk to Saifi Village
Good questions
Is there an elevator?+
No, so upper-floor rooms involve stairs. Ask for a lower floor if needed.
Are children welcome?+
The property does not accept children, so check the policy before booking.
How close is the nightlife?+
Very. Gemmayzeh's bars and restaurants are right outside, so ask for a quiet room if you prefer calm.
