Sightseeing in Libya
Including Cyrene, Leptis Magna, and Old Town of Ghadames. On the map.
The vibe
Libya’s ancient ruins and sweeping desert give a sense of timelessness that feels unlike any city‑center tour. The cooler months make wandering the open sites comfortable, while winter evenings are especially pleasant. Major attractions draw crowds, but you can easily drift into quieter desert stretches away from the bustle.
Cyrene, Shahhat
Jabal al Akhdar
Maher27777 / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
The most important of the five Greek cities in the region of Cyrenaica, founded in the 7th century BC. The site features impressive remains including the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Apollo, set in a lush, elevated landscape.
Access. Located near the city of Shahhat; usually accessed from Benghazi or Al Bayda.
Notes. Remote location; requires careful planning and local coordination.
Leptis Magna, Al Khums
Murqub
Daviegunn / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Widely considered one of the most spectacular and best-preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean. Visitors can walk through the massive Severan Arch, the sprawling forum, and an incredibly intact amphitheater that overlooks the sea.
Access. Located near Al Khums, typically reached by private transport or guided tour from Tripoli.
Notes. Requires a guide and security clearance due to the current political climate in Libya; check travel advisories before planning.
Old Town of Ghadames
Nalut
Luca Galuzzi ( Lucag ) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.5)
Known as the 'Pearl of the Desert,' this ancient oasis town features unique, multi-story mud-brick architecture designed to provide shade and climate control. The labyrinthine, covered streets are a marvel of traditional Saharan urban planning.
Access. Accessible via flights or long-distance road travel from Tripoli.
Notes. A UNESCO World Heritage site; requires local guides to navigate the historic quarters.
Sabratha, Zawiya District
Nuqat al Khams
bob rayner from UK / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
An ancient Phoenician trading post that flourished under Roman rule, famous for its magnificent 3rd-century theatre. The site sits right on the Mediterranean coast, offering a stunning backdrop of ruins against the blue sea.
Access. Easily accessible as a day trip from Tripoli via the coastal highway.
Notes. Check local security conditions and travel restrictions before visiting.
Tadrart Acacus, Fezzan
Ghat
Tadrart Acacus — Wikidata / Wikimedia Commons
A dramatic mountain range in the Sahara desert known for its extraordinary collection of prehistoric rock art. The landscape is a surreal mix of shifting sand dunes, jagged rock arches, and deep canyons.
Access. Requires 4x4 vehicles and experienced local guides, typically starting from Ghat.
Notes. Extremely remote desert environment; travel is restricted and requires specialized logistics.