Al Bustan Hotel  

Perched on the hills above Beirut in Beit Mery (near Hazmieh), this 5-star retreat looks out over the city and the Mediterranean. It’s roughly 15 km from the airport, a short drive to Waves Aqua Park and Le Mall Sin El Fil, and within easy reach of Hamra Street. An ancient archaeological site with Roman ruins and Byzantine mosaics sits just a few minutes' walk away.

A family-owned, Art Deco–leaning hotel with an on-site art collection and 88 individually furnished rooms. Rooms feature Select Comfort beds with premium bedding, private patios or balconies, kitchenettes/minibars, LCD TVs and deep soaking tubs. The property also hosts the Al Bustan International Festival of Music and the Arts in its own auditorium.

Soak in an outdoor pool or sip at the poolside bar. The full-service spa offers massages, facials and body treatments, while a fitness center keeps routines on track. Other perks include karaoke and a barbecue area, parking, concierge services, a chapel and an on-site ATM. Wake up to sea-breeze mornings and city-light evenings.

24-hour business center, express check-in and check-out, complimentary wireless internet and a 24-hour shuttle from the airport help keep work and travel seamless.

Two on-site restaurants — including Les Glycines — serve international dishes, while five bars and a coffee shop offer snacks and cocktails. 24-hour room service is available and buffet-style/local-cuisine breakfasts are served each morning for a fee.