Tripoli, Libya 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Tripoli

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Molo (Al-Fateh Street), a popular spot among locals.
    • Visit the Gonub Belus (also known as Leptis Magna), an ancient Roman city located approximately 13 km east of Tripoli. It’s best to hire a guided tour for a richer experience.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head back to Tripoli and have lunch at Al Marakez Mall food court, offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
    • Explore the Ottoman Quarter (Karamanli Mosque, Mahari Square, and the old souks). Don’t forget to try some traditional Libyan sweets from the local shops.

  • Evening:

    • Relax at G Green Nature Park or Mahari Gardens, perfect spots to unwind after a day of exploration.
    • Enjoy dinner at Al Andalusia Restaurant (104 Sidi Bou Said Street), famous for its Mediterranean dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Modern Tripoli and Departure Preparation

  • Morning:

    • Have breakfast at your hotel or try a local bakery for some freshly baked Libyan bread and cheese.
    • Visit the Red Castle (Qasr Al-Jamahiriyya), the former seat of Gaddafi’s government, now turned into a museum showcasing the history of modern Libya.

  • Afternoon:

    • Have lunch at G Green Restaurant in G Green Nature Park, offering a variety of dishes including traditional Libyan cuisine.
    • Spend your afternoon visiting the Martyr’s Square (Al-Shahid Al-Hamadi Square), the central square of Tripoli, and the nearby Tripoli Grand Mosque (Mosque of Omar Mukhtar).

  • Evening:

    • Prepare for departure. It’s advisable to double-check your travel documents and flight details well in advance.
    • Have an early dinner at a restaurant of your choice, making sure to leave enough time for checking out from your hotel and reaching the airport on time.

Things to Know:

  1. Libya is predominantly Muslim, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  2. English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic Arabic phrases can be helpful.
  3. The weather in Tripoli can be very hot, so carry sunscreen, hats, and water with you at all times.
  4. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s best to carry cash (Euro or US Dollar) for transactions.
  5. Taxis are readily available, but it’s recommended to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
  6. Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when walking in less touristy areas.
  7. Always check the latest travel advisories for Libya from your country’s foreign affairs department before planning a trip.

Transportation:

  1. Taxis are the most common form of transport within Tripoli. They can be hailed on the street or booked by phone.
  2. Car rental services are available, but driving conditions might be challenging for those unfamiliar with the city.
  3. The public bus system is not well-developed and may not be a reliable option for tourists.