Benghazi
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The UK Foreign Office currently advises against travel to all or parts of Libya. This guide is for a safer time. Check the latest travel advice.
At a glance
- Country
- Libya
- Region
- Benghazi District
- Population
- 800,000
- Best time to go
- March to May, October to November
- Main airport
- Benina International (BEN)
- Coordinates
- 32.12°N, 20.07°E
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Overview
Libya's second city sits on the eastern Mediterranean coast, the historic heart of the region of Cyrenaica. Founded by the Greeks, it later became an Ottoman and then an Italian colonial town, and parts of the old centre still show those layers.
For most future visitors, its real draw is what lies beyond the city. The green, wooded uplands of the Jebel Akhdar rise to the east, scattered with some of the best-preserved Greek and Roman ruins in North Africa.
Things to see
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Photo: Al Jazeera English, CC BY-SA 2.0 The old centre
Italian-era arcades, old markets and mosques around the historic core, much of it now being restored.
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Photo: Somia elmogassbi, CC BY-SA 4.0 Benghazi Cathedral
A domed former Catholic cathedral from the Italian period, a landmark on the city skyline.
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Photo: Jaw101ie, Public domain The corniche
A long seafront road where families walk and gather on warm evenings.
Things to do
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Photo: Maher27777, Public domain Visit Cyrene
A great Greek city spread across a hillside, with temples, a sanctuary of Apollo and views down to the sea.
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Photo: Munsha'at al Akhdar lil Alwan, Benghazi., Public domain Explore Ptolemais
Quieter ruins on the coast, with colonnades, villas and a fine small museum.
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Photo: ماهر العوامي, CC BY-SA 4.0 Drive into the Jebel Akhdar
The Green Mountains bring cooler air, juniper woods and farmland, a sharp contrast to the desert further south.
Where to stay
City centre
Close to the old town and seafront, with a range of hotels.
Hotels in City centreAlong the coast road
Newer hotels with more space, better if you have a car.
Hotels in Along the coast road
Getting around
Taxis serve the city, but a trusted local driver and guide is the sensible way to reach the archaeological sites.
Benina airport lies about 25 kilometres east of the centre, roughly half an hour by car.
When to go
Spring and autumn are warm and pleasant, especially in the hills. Summers are hot, and winter can bring rain and cool winds off the sea. Check the latest travel advice before making any plans.
Plan your trip to Benghazi
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.