Things To Do
in Benghazi
Benghazi is the second-largest city in Libya, located on the country's eastern coast along the Mediterranean Sea. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with archaeological sites such as Cyrene and Leptis Magna nearby. Benghazi was a focal point during the Libyan civil war, and the city has since experienced instability and violence.
Despite its challenges, Benghazi is a vibrant city with a diverse population, offering a blend of traditional culture and modern amenities.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Ma assalama" - Goodbye
- "Inshallah" - God willing
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the WWII Cemetery to pay respects to the fallen soldiers. Next, explore the ancient ruins of Ptolemais and learn about its fascinating history.
Enjoy lunch at a local Libyan restaurant, sampling traditional dishes such as couscous. Then, spend your afternoon at the Al-Fateh Mosque, admiring its stunning architecture.
Stroll along the Corniche, soaking in the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. End your day with some local pastries and mint tea at a nearby café.
Start your day at the local artisan markets where you can photograph traditional crafts and interactions. Visit a few art galleries to appreciate the local artists.
Grab lunch at a café serving authentic Libyan food, then participate in a photography workshop to improve your skills. Spend some time exploring the vibrant street art around the city.
Attend a local music performance for a taste of Libyan culture. Relax at a waterfront lounge, sharing stories about your day with new friends.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and significant archaeological sites.
- Strategic location along the Mediterranean Sea, facilitating trade and tourism.
- Diverse natural landscapes, including Mediterranean beaches and desert areas.
- Political instability and ongoing conflicts, impacting security and governance.
- Economic challenges and reliance on oil revenues, leading to vulnerability.
- Infrastructural damage and underdevelopment due to recent conflicts.
Best Activities in Benghazi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Relax and enjoy the sandy beach and clear blue waters.
Explore the natural beauty and wildlife around the scenic lake.
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along this picturesque road with pleasant views.
Spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking at this popular beach destination.
Tours
Uncover the best of Benghazi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Benghazi
Visit one of these nice places.
Stretches along the Mediterranean offering great views for photography and leisurely walks.
Mountainous region with stunning panoramic views of the city and coast, perfect for photography.
This ancient city provides picturesque views of historical ruins and coastal landscapes, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Benghazi
Benghazi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple Libyan dish made from a mixture of barley flour, water, and olive oil, typically served with a spicy tomato sauce known as 'Gedeed.' It is a must-try when visiting Benghazi and can be found at traditional Libyan restaurants like Amerat Alkhiyam and Al-Osta Alshaabi.
Must-Try!
A popular dish made of poached eggs in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions, often spiced with cumin. It can be enjoyed at various eateries and cafes throughout Benghazi, such as Al-Naseem Restaurant and Cafe Layalina.
A delicious date-filled cookie, often flavored with orange blossom water and dusted with powdered sugar. These can be found at local bakeries like El-Baouel Bakery and Al-Fadheelah Sweets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Benghazi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and most vibrant markets in Benghazi, offering a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Visitors can also savor an assortment of street food, including grilled meats, couscous, and savory pastries.
Along the picturesque Corniche, food stalls and vendors offer a variety of delectable street foods such as grilled seafood, falafel sandwiches, and sweet treats like baklava and sesame-coated pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Benghazi, it is customary to greet others with a handshake and maintain direct eye contact during the interaction. It is important to show respect by using proper titles and addressing people with their formal titles, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
It is important to dress modestly in Benghazi, especially for women. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing to show respect for the local cultural norms and traditions.
Hospitality is highly valued in Benghazi, and it is common for people to offer food or drinks to guests as a sign of hospitality. When invited to someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation for the host's hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Benghazi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Benghazi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Benghazi, Libya, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be added to the bill.
Cash is the primary method of payment in Benghazi, Libya. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, so it's important to carry enough cash for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Benghazi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May: The weather is mild and pleasant, with blooming wildflowers and comfortable temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.
June to August: Summer brings hot and dry weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's ideal for beach activities and enjoying the Mediterranean coastline.
September to November: The temperatures start to cool down, and it's a good time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded, and the sea is still warm for swimming.
December to February: Winter is mild with occasional rainfall. It's a quieter time in the city, and indoor attractions like museums and cultural sites are ideal to explore.
Benghazi at Night
Hiking in Benghazi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a variety of trails for different skill levels.
A coastal area with trails that lead through picturesque locations near the Mediterranean, great for hiking and exploring.
Located a bit further from the city, this mountain range features several hiking routes that showcase Libya's natural beauty.
These trails are ideal for those looking for a mix of mountain and coastal hiking, with diverse landscapes and flora.
An inviting area within proximity to the city that offers hiking paths surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Benghazi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Benghazi by plane.
The primary airport serving Benghazi, located approximately 14 km east of the city center.
The main airport in Libya, located in the capital city of Tripoli, approximately 1,000 km west of Benghazi.
An international airport in Misrata, located about 800 km west of Benghazi.
A smaller international airport serving Tobruk, located approximately 200 km east of Benghazi.
An international airport in Sebha, located around 700 km south of Benghazi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Benghazi, comprising a significant portion of the population.
An indigenous ethnic group in Libya, with a smaller presence in Benghazi, often maintaining distinct cultural traditions.
A demographic group consisting of Libyan residents with familial ties or historical connections to Tunisia.
A group that includes migrants and expatriates from various countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, often working in various sectors.
A small community that traces back to colonial times, but significantly reduced in number after Libya's independence.
The Soul of Benghazi
Discover the essence of Benghazi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Benghazi and Libya as a whole, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Basketball has gained popularity in recent years, with local leagues and youth programs promoting the sport.
Handball is a widely played sport in Benghazi, with organized competitions and national teams representing Libya.
Volleyball is popular among both men and women and is commonly played in schools and recreational centers.
Track and field events are encouraged in schools and clubs, showcasing local talent in various disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Benghazi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Libyan cuisine prominently features meat, several restaurants and cafes in Benghazi offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices, including flavorful salads, dips like hummus and baba ghanoush, and vegetable-based stews.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes like grilled meats, fresh seafood, rice-based dishes, and naturally gluten-free offerings available at various restaurants and markets in Benghazi.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Benghazi with these cultural adventures.
