
523 verified reviews
Riviera Hotel Beirut
If the walls of the Riviera Hotel could talk, they’d likely order a whiskey sour and recount tales from Beirut’s golden age. Situated directly on the Corniche El Manara, this independent grand dame offers a front-row seat to the city’s soul, standing just a five-minute stroll from the nostalgic neon of the Beirut Luna Park—a vintage theme park that’s as much a local landmark as the hotel itself. While the interiors occasionally betray their age (expect modest TVs and the occasional scuff), the vibe is undeniably electric. The real draw here isn't the room tech but the social theatre: the Riviera Beach Lounge is where Beirut’s elite come to see and be seen, lounging on the VIP Floating Island or sipping cocktails by the separate family pool. Dining is a serious affair, with ‘Au Gros Sel’ serving fresh catch and authentic Lebanese Mezza that rivals any standalone restaurant in town. It’s not flawless, but it’s fiercely charismatic—a place where the sea views and the heritage trump the need for brand-new furniture. For travelers who prefer character over cookie-cutter perfection, the Riviera remains the beating heart of the Manara district.






