Overview
Benghazi is Libya's second city, a Mediterranean port and the historic gateway to the Greek and Roman ruins of Cyrenaica, with Ottoman and Italian colonial streets and a long seafront Corniche. One thing to know first: the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently advises against all travel to Libya, which affects travel insurance and package availability, so speak to our team before booking. There are no direct flights from the UK, so every route connects through a hub.
Best time to fly to Benghazi
Benghazi has a Mediterranean climate — hot, dry summers and mild, damp winters. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most comfortable, with warm days in the low-to-mid 20s°C. July and August are hot and busy, as many Libyans living abroad return home then and flights fill quickly. Winter is mild but wetter. The When to book chart above shows how fares shift through the year.
Airlines and routes
There are no direct flights between the UK and Benghazi. The usual routing is one stop via a regional hub: Turkish Airlines connects through Istanbul and EgyptAir via Cairo, while Libyan carriers such as Libyan Airlines, Berniq Airways and Libyan Wings operate onward and regional legs. From London, allow roughly 9–14 hours in total depending on your layover; from Manchester, expect a similar trip connecting in Istanbul. Use the price charts on this page to compare airlines.
Things to do in Benghazi
A compact centre and a coastline steeped in ancient history reward a curious traveller.
- Benghazi Cathedral: landmark twin-domed former cathedral overlooking the old harbour.
- 23 July Lake: saltwater lagoon ringed by parks and cafes near the city centre.
- Atiq Mosque: Benghazi's oldest mosque and the heart of the historic quarter.
- Souq al-Jreed: lively covered market for spices, textiles and gold.
- Cyrene and Apollonia: UNESCO-listed Greek and Roman ruins a few hours east near Shahat.
At Benina International Airport (BEN)
Benina sits about 19 km east of central Benghazi, roughly a 25–35 minute drive. There is no rail link or airport bus, so taxis are the practical choice — agree the fare before you set off. For arrivals we recommend arranging a private transfer or hotel pick-up in advance, which our team can help organise.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Benghazi
- Book ahead: fares on connecting routes are usually keenest two to four months before departure.
- Fly midweek: Tuesday and Wednesday flights tend to be cheaper and quieter than weekend departures.
- Stay flexible: moving your dates by a day or two, and avoiding the July–August peak, can noticeably lower the price.
- Compare hubs: check both the Istanbul and Cairo connections rather than assuming one is cheaper.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders need a visa to enter Libya, arranged in advance through a Libyan diplomatic mission — there is no visa on arrival, and requirements are strict. The currency is the Libyan dinar (LYD); Libya runs largely on cash and UK bank cards are rarely accepted, so organise your money before travelling. Make sure your passport has at least six months' validity, and check the latest FCDO guidance and travel health advice well before you go.
