Things To Do
in Benghazi
Benghazi is Libya’s second-largest city, perched on the eastern Mediterranean coast. Its streets blend ancient history with modern urban life and a lively waterfront. Today it serves as a cultural and economic hub in Cyrenaica, boasting markets, cafes, and coastal scenery.
Visitors should stay informed about current safety conditions and travel advisories while exploring its waterfront and souks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Al-Shaab Park, where the lush greenery offers a serene start. Stroll through the streets of the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant local life. Don't forget to stop by the local cafes for a traditional Libyan breakfast of shakshuka and mint tea.
After lunch, visit the iconic Benghazi Cathedral, a beautiful remnant of the city’s colonial past. Head to the nearby National Museum of Benghazi, which houses fascinating artifacts that tell the story of Libya's rich history. Spend some time exploring the bustling local markets, where you can find handcrafted goods and local spices.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a waterfront restaurant along the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner, freshly caught and prepared with local flavors. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the Corniche, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and stunning sea views.
Start your day at the pristine beaches of Sidi Khalifa, where golden sands and clear waters await. Engage in thrilling water sports like jet skiing or parasailing, providing an exhilarating way to experience the Mediterranean. After some fun in the sun, take a moment to relax on the beach with a refreshing drink.
Grab a light lunch from a beachside café, enjoying traditional Libyan dishes like couscous or grilled fish. Afterward, consider a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant underwater life that the Mediterranean has to offer. Spend the afternoon basking in the sun, or take part in beach volleyball games with locals and fellow travelers.
As the day winds down, enjoy a barbeque dinner at one of the beach restaurants, where the sound of waves complements the delicious food. Watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. End the evening with some live music at a beachside bar, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $40-80 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course lunch or dinner | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture
- Coastal scenery and fresh seafood
- Hospitable locals and growing cafe scene
- Relatively affordable compared with many capitals
- Emerging tourism infrastructure in parts of the city
- Safety advisories and variable security conditions
- Limited international tourism infrastructure
- Travel logistics can be challenging
- Some areas restricted to visitors or require guides
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is the price?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تقبلون بطاقات الائتمان؟" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Benghazi
Visit one of these nice places.
Long seafront promenade with views of the harbor and the sea.
Narrow lanes and whitewashed buildings offering texture and character.
Colorful boats, cranes, and early-morning activity provide atmospheric scenes.
Cliffs and lookout points ideal for sunset photography.
Food in Benghazi
Benghazi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Libyan dish of barley dough served with meat sauce and vegetables.
Must-Try!
Eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce, often enjoyed with bread.
Fresh catches from the Mediterranean, often grilled with lemon and olive oil.
Fluffy couscous topped with meat stews and vegetables.
A green leafy soup or stew served with rice or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant markets with olives, dates, spices, and en route street snacks.
Seafood snacks and grilled items by the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees in public areas; respect mosque etiquette.
A handshake is common; use right hand. Address elders with respect.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional settings.
Safety
Tipping in Benghazi
Ensure a smooth experience
Encourage modest tipping for good service in cafes, restaurants, and taxi rides.
Cash is widely accepted, but cards are not universal; ATMs are common in city areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry weather with high UV. Plan outdoor activity for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated.
Warm days with lower humidity; sea breezes make evenings pleasant.
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; occasional rain.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; dust storms can occur during transition months.
Benghazi at Night
Hiking in Benghazi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal path offering sea views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
Moderate hike in nearby desert foothills with dramatic rock formations.
Easy to moderate trails through rocky wadis with desert scenery and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Benghazi by plane.
The main international airport serving Benghazi, located east of the city. Connects to regional destinations and some international hubs.
A regional hub in Egypt for connections to Libya; used for international connections when direct Libyan routes are limited.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with local customs and languages; predominantly Arabic-speaking.
Minority groups with distinct languages and traditions in some areas.
Smaller communities of professionals and contractors from other countries.
A relatively young demographic with growing urban culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal play are common across neighborhoods.
A popular indoor and outdoor activity with local clubs and youth programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Benghazi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Libyan dishes are meat-based. Look for vegetable stews, lentil soups, salads, and bread; ask for vegetable-only versions when possible.
Most venues serve halal meat; if in doubt, ask staff about ingredients and preparation.
Rice and millet-based dishes are common; avoid bread-heavy dishes if needed.