The Mar Mikhael Stairs are a unique highlight in the Gemmayze district of Beirut. This area elegantly blends the historic charm of the neighborhood with artistic elements, offering a distinct atmosphere compared to the traditional city streets.
The area around the stairs has become a favorite spot for visitors keen on discovering a different side of Beirut, away from the usual tourist attractions.
For many, a visit wouldn’t be complete without stopping by one of the nearby cafes. Gemmayze is home to a variety of cafes serving coffee, drinks, and light snacks, all set in an ambiance that combines old Beirut charm with modern life.
The proximity of these cafes makes it easy to plan a walking tour that includes photography and a relaxing break at one of these establishments.
Cafes Near Mar Mikhael Stairs:
Lonely Mouth Cafe
Located very close to the Mar Mikhael Stairs, Lonely Mouth Cafe stands out in the vicinity of Gouraud Street in Gemmayze. It can easily be incorporated into a tour of the area, especially for those wanting a coffee break after exploring the stairs and surrounding streets. Its location allows visitors to enjoy the Gemmayze vibe without straying too far from their intended route.
Bn Coffee Bar
Situated on Gouraud Street, Bn Coffee Bar is an ideal choice for coffee lovers looking to complete their Gemmayze tour with a stop at a specialized drinks and coffee spot. Its location in a lively area with numerous restaurants and cafes makes it a good option for those planning a longer tour of the neighborhood.
Levant Cafe
Levant Cafe near Gouraud Street provides another setting for enjoying coffee amidst the district's charm. Visitors can stop by for a coffee after a short tour of Mar Mikhael Stairs or include it in a longer itinerary exploring the streets and landmarks of Gemmayze.
SIP Cafe
SIP Cafe is located within the vibrant area of Gemmayze and is easily accessible as part of a tour around the district's streets. It’s a suitable choice for visitors needing a break after exploring the stairs and the surrounding streets, especially given the area's wide variety of cafes and restaurants.
Neighbourhood Cafe
Neighbourhood Cafe offers an additional choice for enjoying a relaxed cafe setting during a tour of Gemmayze. Its strategic location near various attractions allows for a seamless visit to the cafe coupled with exploring the neighborhood.
SUCASU Coffee Collective
SUCASU Coffee Collective provides a coffee-centric experience and is located around the Gemmayze area. It’s a fitting option for coffee enthusiasts looking for something different during their tour, particularly those interested in exploring Beirut’s specialty coffee scenes.
Kalei Coffee Co.
Kalei Coffee Co. is a well-known name in Beirut’s specialty coffee scene, situated in the Rue de Rome area close to Gemmayze. It's an excellent choice for those willing to walk a bit after visiting Mar Mikhael Stairs to explore more of the coffee culture in this part of Beirut.
Why is Gemmayze Ideal for Cafe Lovers?
The diverse array of cafes, restaurants, and artistic venues make Gemmayze an excellent neighborhood for a tour that mixes tourism with dining and coffee experiences. The architectural allure of combining old buildings with modern touches, along with murals and cultural spaces, enhances its attraction.
What to Do After Visiting Mar Mikhael Stairs?
Turn your stair visit into a full-fledged tour by exploring the surroundings.
Photography
The stairs and surrounding structures are perfect for photography, especially with the artistic works and architectural details available.
Strolling through Gemmayze
After visiting the stairs, continue your walk through Gemmayze to discover the many restaurants, cafes, and arts venues the area has to offer.
Enjoying a Coffee
Pick one of the nearby cafes to rest for a while before resuming your tour, especially after walking up the stairs and streets.
Continuing to Mar Mikhael
Combine a visit to Mar Mikhael Stairs with discovering the nearby Mar Mikhael area, known for its eateries, cafes, and entertainment spots.
Which Cafe is Closest to Mar Mikhael Stairs?
If proximity is key, Lonely Mouth Cafe is among the top choices near the stairs.
If you're willing to explore further cafes, consider visiting Bn Coffee Bar, Levant Cafe, SIP Cafe, or Neighbourhood Cafe.
Is Mar Mikhael Stairs Suitable for a Short Tour?
Yes — the stairs serve as a fantastic starting point for a short tour in Gemmayze, especially for photography, art, architecture, and cafe enthusiasts.
Allocate part of your tour to exploring the stairs, then head to one of the nearby cafes, making it a suitable visit even for those with limited time in Beirut.
Also see:
Guide to Saifi Village in Beirut
Story of Mar Mikhael Stairs in Beirut