Museums in Lebanon with Cool Gift Shops

by Carla Zaiter

Visiting a museum in Lebanon is not just about seeing exhibits. Many museums also have gift shops that let you take a piece of the experience home. These stores showcase the work of Lebanese artists and artisans, from small decorative objects to books and educational items. Each shop reflects the spirit of its museum and offers something you won’t find anywhere else.

AUB Archaeological Museum, Hamra

The AUB Archaeological Museum (+961 1 759 665)  is one of the oldest in the Near East, founded in 1868 and showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times through the Islamic period. In its shop you’ll find books, jewelry and gifts inspired by the museum’s collections, often made by Lebanese artisans. Sales support the museum’s programs, and the location at the main entrance makes it easy to stop by after a visit.

MIM Museum, Achrafieh

The MIM Museum (+961 1 421 672) is a privately founded mineralogy museum housing thousands of specimens from around the world. It’s especially popular with geology lovers. While the primary draw is the mineral and fossil collection, the shop complements the experience with books and design objects that reflect the science and beauty of earth materials, appealing to collectors and curious visitors alike.

Saida Soap Museum, Saida

Housed in a restored historic soap factory in Sidon run by the Audi Foundation, the Saida Soap Museum (+961 7 733 353) explores traditional Levantine soap making. The shop features luxury olive oil and laurel oil soaps and blown glass from nearby artisans, many made by multi‑generation soap makers, providing a sensory souvenir tied to Lebanese craft heritage

National Museum of Beirut, Badaro

The National Museum of Beirut (+961 1 426 703) houses thousands of artifacts that span 1 million years of history. Near the main entrance you’ll find a small gift area offering books, posters and museum‑branded items that help contextualize the nation’s ancient past. Collectibles here often echo the museum’s narrative and make thoughtful gifts for history lovers.

Sursock Museum, Achrafieh

The Nicolas Ibrahim Sursock Museum (+961 1 202 001) is a major hub for modern and contemporary art in Beirut. After exploring exhibitions of Lebanese and international artists, visitors can browse the museum’s store, which features design objects, artist editions and lifestyle pieces that resonate with the museum’s creative vision and architectural charm.

Silk Museum, Bsous

The Silk Museum (+961 5 940 767) in Bsous celebrates Lebanon’s silk production history and traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the story of sericulture and the silk trade, and the shop offers local and artisanal items such as olive wood products, garden plants and fragrant seasonal goods. The museum is open from spring through to fall, so it’s best to check ahead before planning your visit. Even in its limited months, the shop offers a memorable way to take a piece of Lebanese heritage home.


If you liked reading this, check out our article on art galleries to discover in Beirut.

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