Tripoli, Libya-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Mitiga International Airport (TIP) and transfer to your hotel in the city center.
  • Place to visit: Old City (Medina)
    • Explore the ancient streets, mosques, and markets of Tripoli’s historic quarter.
    • Visit the Grand Mosque (Jami’ al-Hamidiya), a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Libyan cuisine at Al-Rahma Restaurant. Enjoy local dishes like “kibbeh” (meatballs) or “shakshuka” (eggs in tomato sauce).
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Libya, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the country’s history.
    • Learn about the ancient civilizations that once flourished in Tripoli, including the Phoenicians and Romans.
  • Dinner: Head to La Marocchino Restaurant for dinner. Try some Mediterranean-style dishes with a Libyan twist.

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Gurgi Museum, which showcases a collection of ancient artifacts from Tripoli’s past.
    • See exhibits on the city’s history, including its time as an Ottoman and Italian colony.
  • Place to visit: The Red Castle (Al-Qasr al-Asfar)
    • Explore the 16th-century fortress that once served as a palace for the Ottoman sultan.
    • Admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea from the castle’s towers.
  • Lunch: Grab some lunch at a local street food stall in the Old City. Try some “baladi” bread with olive oil and spices.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Tripoli University campus, which features several historic buildings and monuments.
    • Take a stroll through the campus’ beautiful gardens and courtyards.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Al-Rafala Restaurant, known for its delicious Libyan seafood dishes.

Day 3: Beach Day

  • Morning: Head to the Corniche, a scenic beachside promenade with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
    • Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the sea breeze.
  • Place to visit: The Marine Park (Mina al-Bahr)
    • Visit the beautiful park, which features a lagoon, gardens, and a range of marine life exhibits.
    • Spot some local wildlife, such as turtles or seagulls.
  • Lunch: Grab some lunch at a beachside restaurant. Try some fresh seafood or Mediterranean-style sandwiches.
  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour of the coastline, which offers stunning views of Tripoli’s beaches and cliffs.

Day 4: Day Trip to Sabratha

  • Morning: Visit the ancient city of Sabratha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour outside Tripoli.
    • Explore the ruins of this ancient Phoenician and Roman city, including its impressive theatre and temples.
  • Lunch: Try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Sabratha’s historic center.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby archaeological site of Leptis Magna, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Explore the remains of this ancient Punic city, including its impressive forum and basilica.

Day 5: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping in Tripoli’s bustling markets.
    • Visit the Souk al-Medina (Old City market), which features a range of local goods, including spices, textiles, and crafts.
  • Place to visit: The Gurgi Mall
    • Browse the mall’s shops, restaurants, and cafes.
    • Enjoy some air-conditioned comfort after exploring the city streets.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Libyan cuisine at a local restaurant. Enjoy some delicious dishes like “kibbeh” or “shakshuka”.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach or by the pool at your hotel.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Check out of your hotel and transfer to Mitiga International Airport for your departure flight.
  • Place to visit: The airport’s duty-free shops and cafes
    • Stock up on last-minute souvenirs or grab some snacks before boarding your flight.

Things to know

  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but many locals also speak English, Italian, and French.
  • Currency: Libyan dinar (LYD) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at airports, hotels, or banks.
  • Weather: Tripoli has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • Safety: Exercise caution when walking in crowded areas or at night.

Transportation

  • Airport transfers: Use a licensed taxi or shuttle service from the airport to your hotel.
  • Public transportation: Use buses or minibuses to get around the city.
  • Taxis: Hire a private taxi for a fixed fee or negotiate with the driver for a ride.

Tips and recommendations

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or historical sites.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Try to avoid crowded areas during peak hours.
  • Learn some Arabic phrases: Show respect by learning basic greetings and phrases in Arabic.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine: Be adventurous and try some of the delicious traditional Libyan dishes.

Other things that are of interest to tourists

  • Visit the nearby city of Zawiyah: Explore its historic center, which features a range of ancient mosques and monuments.
  • Take a desert safari: Head into the Sahara Desert for an unforgettable adventure.
  • Go on a diving or snorkeling trip: Visit some of Libya’s stunning beaches and coral reefs.