Libya
Libya is a fascinating destination for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in a unique mix of ancient history, desert landscapes, and Mediterranean coastline. The capital, Tripoli, offers visitors a combination of modern and traditional experiences, with its bustling markets and historical landmarks. The Medina of Tripoli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to a labyrinth of narrow streets, where you can find old mosques, Ottoman-era buildings, and the impressive Red Castle Museum, which houses artifacts that chronicle Libya’s rich history, from the Roman Empire to the more recent past. For those interested in exploring more of Libya’s architectural beauty, the ancient city of Leptis Magna, located near the coast, is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the Mediterranean, featuring stunning ruins such as temples, theaters, and triumphal arches.
In addition to historical and cultural treasures, Libya is also known for its vast, awe-inspiring desert landscapes. The Sahara Desert, one of the world’s largest deserts, offers a unique opportunity for adventure tourism, including camel treks and 4×4 expeditions. The stunning oasis town of Ghadames, known as the “Pearl of the Desert,” is another must-see, with its traditional mud-brick architecture, narrow winding streets, and a rich cultural heritage. Travelers can also visit the impressive Acacus Mountains, which feature prehistoric rock art that dates back thousands of years, offering a rare glimpse into early human history in North Africa.
Libya’s Mediterranean coastline is an ideal destination for beach lovers and those interested in exploring the serene beauty of its shores. The country’s pristine beaches, such as those in the coastal city of Benghazi, are perfect for relaxation and water activities like swimming, diving, and snorkeling. Libya’s relatively undiscovered coastline offers quiet, unspoiled locations, providing travelers with the opportunity to enjoy a more tranquil experience compared to other popular Mediterranean destinations. For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path destination, Libya presents an unforgettable combination of history, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
SUMMER – Great for the beach!
SPRING & AUTUMN – Great for exploring, city breaks, and beach breaks in the Canaries.
WINTER – The Canary Islands are a great option for Winter Sun!
FLIGHT TIME
Between 2-3 hours for Mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands, 4 hours for the Canary Islands
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST +1
CURRENCY
Euros
IDEAL FOR
There is something for everyone in Spain. Great food, architecture, music, scenery and the priority for many great beach resorts.
HOW TO GET THERE
Flights are available to a number of cities and resorts in Spain from most UK airports, especially Barcelona, Palma (Mallorca), Malaga, Alicante and Tenerife. Its possible to travel by train, via France to Barcelona.
LANGUAGE
Spanish, with various dialects – most notably Catalan. Although English is widely spoken in most areas, especially in coastal resorts.
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
Combine stays with a city and then the beach – Barcelona and the Balearics, Seville and the Andalusian coast, or the historic centre of Spain.