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Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Tunisia

Although it’s famous for its warm winter sun, dunes and elegant spas, the smallest country in North Africa is not always synonymous with beauty. Still, of course, beauty is subjective and I think it’s vastly underrated and is home to many places easily worthy of the word!

From magical mountain oases and atmospheric holy cities to some of the most sought-after beach resorts and from my time spent exploring this unique country, here are my favourite spots…

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1. Hammamet

Once a humble fishing village surrounded by lemon groves, Hammamet is now a thriving beach resort town with numerous hotels.

It is actually one of Tunisia’s first tourist destinations due to its fine beaches and warm waters, which are perfect for water sports. In fact, the area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, and I’m a huge fan of this place! 

It’s not all about all-inclusive hotels and sunbathing. Hammamet has a beautiful historic centre crisscrossed with narrow alleyways. Here, you’ll find an attractive medina and a 12th-century Kasbah, which I would highly recommend exploring.

Location: – Hammamet is in Nabeul Governorate east of Tunisia, less than an hour’s drive from Tunis airport.

2. Sidi Bou Said

Tunisia’s prettiest town is perched on top of a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean. Its gorgeous traditional houses have been whitewashed to perfection and beautifully accented with flashes of brilliant blue.

It’s long been a bohemian enclave, but with a few trendy boutique hotels popping up, it now attracts a more well-heeled crowd.

I suggest exploring the narrow, cobbled streets lined with cafes, art shops, and souvenir stalls framed by abundant fragrant, cascading flowers. The town also makes a great base to explore the nearby Roman ruins of Carthage.

Location: Sidi Bou Said is a town located in northern Tunisia, about 25 minutes drive from Tunis airport.

Located right on the coast, this former military port is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and UNESCO World Heritage site status. It’s both a bustling tourist resort and a beautifully preserved place. In my opinion, it is a fine example of a town dating from the first centuries of Islam.

Visit for outstanding Arabo-Muslim and Mediterranean architecture, including ramparts, a Ftata Mosque, a typical ribat and a medina, also home to the city’s Great Mosque.

Location: Sousse is located on the Tunisian Sahel coast in the centre of the country, a 2-hour drive from Tunis airport

4. Port El Kantaoui 

Luxury is everywhere in Port El Kantaoui. Beach resorts throughout the area cater to every waking need of their high-end visitors, but rest assured; you do not have to be a part of the luxury sect to enjoy the sheer beauty of Port El Kantaoui.

This Tunisian destination is ideal for tourists from every walk of life, whether you want to relax along the coastline and soak up some sun or dive beneath the surface of the water for some supreme snorkelling.

I personally think it’s everything you could want from a luxury coastal destination is all in one location here! 

Location: Port El Kantaoui is located 10 kilometres north of Sousse city in central Tunisia, around an hour and 40 minutes drive from Tunis Airport

With a population of around 170,000, Djerba is not considered a small village.

It is also among the more popular tourist areas in the country, but people do not simply come to Djerba for access to the spectacular beach or even for its handmade crafts throughout the city.

People enjoy a more diverse religious culture in Djerba that is not accentuated as much in any other part of Tunisia. Here, you can learn about a new religion and culture while enjoying a picturesque coastal destination. I love this place! 

Location: Djerba is a large island in southeastern Tunisia. Many people drive from Tunis airport, stopping on the way, as it’s a 6-hour trip. Once near, you can get a ferry to the island.

Nabeul is not just a fine place for locals to enjoy but also Tunisia’s first seaside resort! On both sides of this easy-on-the-eye resort, you are engulfed by illustrious Mediterranean Sea views.

Nabeul has been charming locals and visitors alike since the 5th century BC and has also charmed me! There are also many hotels and guest houses to stay in to take advantage of the beautiful beaches here.

Today, artisans throughout Nabeul are known for making some of the most beautiful mosaics, painted dishes, potteries, and wall tiles, so I highly recommend visiting one of the many shops dotted along this remarkably beautiful coastal city.

Location: Nabeul is a coastal town located in northeastern Tunisia, just over an hour’s drive from Tunis airport

7. Cap Bon Area 

The peninsula lying at the country’s Northeastern tip is so alluring that it’s often referred to as the “garden of Tunisia.” It’s also a popular resort area, but it’s popular for a reason.

Filled with sun-drenched beaches with a clear blue sea, thermal springs, fragrant eucalyptus trees, lush palms and sweet-smelling flora this area I personally think this place deserves a place on this list!

Location: is a peninsula in far northeastern Tunisia located around an hour and 20 minutes from Tunis airport

A charming and authentic resort in northern Tunisia is one of those places where you can stay and live like a local for a while, far from the tourist crowds. 

Aside from a beautiful long sandy beach, other reasons to visit here include the picturesque old port with gently bobbing boats, a pretty coastline, and an incredible road cut into the coast. I would highly recommend trying out some of the excellent restaurants also located here!

Location: Bizerte is the northernmost city in Africa, an hour’s drive from Tunis Airport.

9. Tunis Medina, Tunis 

In my opinion, the most striking part of the country’s capital city is the old Arab-walled town, otherwise known as the Medina. Expect fine examples of Arab architecture and lively souqs where everything from household goods to gold can be bartered for.

The atmosphere is intoxicating, and it gives you a taste of what life was like in the Arabian opulence era, which reigned from the 12th to the 16th centuries. I would highly recommend a visit!

Location: Located in the capital of Tunis on the northeastern coast, about a 20-minute drive from Tunis airport.

10. Monastir Ribat 

A visit to Monastir Ribat is essential to get the most out of your Tunisian adventure. Today, Monastir Ribat is considered a holy site as it maintains two mosques servicing the city of Monastir, but it was not always so calm there.

In 796, Monastir Riba was built as a military structure to ward off invaders. Throughout its many-century history, rooms and additions have been added to ensure the building is always relevant.

I recommend enjoying walking around Monastir Riba and taking pictures of various architectural feats throughout its history! 

11. Plage de Chaffar, Sfax

Strolling around Sfax will allow you to see many beautiful locations, such as the Museum of Architecture. Still, if you are looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy Tunisia’s natural beauty, Plage de Caffar is the place to be.

This beach destination has a mild climate and white, sandy beaches. It is where locals bring their families to enjoy fun in the sun in Tunisia.

Although it is a popular place for tourists and locals alike, this beach remains a calm, relaxing area to enjoy any time of the year.

12. Chebika

Of course, it’s all a matter of opinion, but arguably, the most beautiful places in Tunisia are far from the cities. Chebika, which lies at the foot of the mountains of the Djebel el Negueb, is a perfect example.

Here, an Eden-like oasis of beautiful waterfalls, curious caverns, and date palms surviving in rocky clefts is a dramatic sight – unsurprisingly, a popular tourist haunt.

It’s also popular with film directors, as scenes from Star Wars Episode IV and The English Patient were shot in this area.

13. The Sahara

Visitors should include the world’s largest desert on their itinerary, and tours arranged by most resort towns can reach the Sahara.

The Eastern Sand Sea (Grand Erg Oriental) covers a large part of Southern Tunisia. It’s a magical place where scenes from Star Wars and The English Patient were once filmed.

The area is best explored by jeep, but to really up the romance stakes, include an overnight stay in a traditional tent. Ensure you don’t miss Nefta, the most beautiful dunes in Tunisia and Chott el Jerid, a vast salt lake.

14. Matmata & the Ksour 

Movie fans would instantly recognise the intriguing troglodytic houses of Matmata. When director George Lucas visited here, he was so taken with the area that he used it as a set in his famous Star Wars films.

I love that it’s a uniquely beautiful place, home to attractive honeycomb-esque granaries known as ghorfas. The curious architecture style stems from fortified Berber settlements and is so unusual that it almost looks other-worldly.

15. Chott el Djerid

Unique is a word thrown around by visitors to Chott el Djerid. When visiting, you might believe you have seen it before. If you are a Star Wars fan, you probably have as many Tatooine scenes shot in this location.

Chott el Djerid is a saltwater lake, and throughout the year, geological changes change the water’s colour—it turns all kinds of crazy hues: purple, pink, and red.

I would suggest walking along the water’s edge and seeing its natural salt deposits. A popular activity for Chott el Djerid visitors is to fly over the lake in a paraglider to get a bird’s eye view of its amazing beauty.

16. Tamerza

The largest mountain oasis in the country is also a popular beauty spot and has an abandoned old town. Located in the mountains north of the salt lakes, it’s an intriguing place with two waterfalls, an oasis, and deep gorges.

The town was abandoned after the 1962 river floods, and today, it’s eerily quiet. I suggest making sure you include a visit to nearby Mides, another mountain oasis home to a spectacular canyon.

17. Kairouan

This important holy city has also been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Founded in 670, it has a rich architectural heritage, an attractive medina, and lively souqs.

My favorite highlights include the Great Mosque of Okba – one of Tunisia’s largest and oldest mosques and the 9th-century Mosque of the Three Gates.

18. Ichkeul Lake 

Beaches and coastal destinations have their allure, but Ichkeul Lake has an attraction of its own. If your destination is northern Tunisia, I personally think Ichkeul Lake is the place to go.

For those who enjoy bird watching, this lake boasts intricate wetlands that attract thousands of migrant birds each year, including the stunning flamingo.

Although construction on the dam for the lake has changed its ecological standpoint somewhat, birds and wildlife such as ducks, storks, flamingos and geese are still prevalent in the area.

19. Bou-Hedma National Park

National parks are treasures to behold, and in 1980, Bou-Hedma National Park was founded in Tunisia. Today, it is on the list of UNESCO heritage sites for its ecological significance and illustrious history. It is home to ancient Roman structures beautifully preserved within the park.

Animals such as Gazelles can be seen throughout the park, but endangered creatures such as the Addax Antelope also call Bou-Hedma National Park home.

A museum was recently built within the park’s borders to help you learn more about the park and its ongoing conservation efforts. I suggest visiting if you can to learn about this interesting area.

Please always check the latest government advice before deciding on any travel destination.

Scott Balaam – writer and photographer

Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Australia, Ireland, UK and the USA but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting thirst for culture, good food and great football. In his spare time Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, the rest of Italy, Amsterdam, USA, Athens, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Find Scott on Linkedin , Instagram , or Twitter .

Hotel Reviewing Experience –Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Sweden ,  OET (Spanish Tourism Office) , Sultanate of Oman and  Travel Alberta . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Also mentioned as a top UK travel journalist .

21 thoughts on “Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Tunisia”

thanks for posting these pictures but i have so much pictures and they are better btw

Thanks for sharing such mind blowing pictures from Tunisia. So money saving starts for my next year’s vacation 🙂

Tunisia is amazing indeed! You can take a look at my post about Tunisian part of Sahara (linked below.

Such stunning pictures! It seems like there are so many different variety of places to visit in Tunisia with so many different cultural and environmental experiences. Definitely adding this place to my bucket list.

I’ve been recently and all these choices are good, I’d have to give a special mention to the Roman ruins and the spa hotels are pretty incredible too!

The spa hotels are gorgeous!

Well it definitely looks beautiful in these photos! I’ve never really considered it before as a travel destination to be honest, but it looks as though I’m missing out!

I love this list, I have never considered traveling in Tunisia, always somehow connected it with all inclusive cheap holidays deals until now, you have change my mind! Bravo!

Thanks Marysia, I’m glad we did! 🙂

So many beautiful places, Sidi Bou Said looks gorgeous!

OMG that shot in the Sahara!!!!! All those places look nice. But my last trip was Morocco so for the next few I will try something radically different. But I will keep in mind this post for the future! Thanks

These places in Tunisa looks amazing! Sidi Bou Said reminds me of Greece. Beautiful photos too!

I have never been to Tunisia, and dream about Sahara for years… Great list! Beautiful photos. Now I wanna go even more [smile]

Wow, I’m impressed. I’ve never thought about visit Tunisia, I even don’t know why, this place just haven’t have been on my mind, never. But looking at these photos it would be a shame if I wouldn’t go there.

Hope you get to go one day, it’s a very underrated place!

I would absolutely have to go to Tunisia just to visit the old Star Wars set! A lifelong dream come true for me and before the sand engulfs it permanently. I would love to sit and people watch in the Medina, Becky! That looks like so much fun. Btw…the pictures are amazing. Especially that one of the Sahara…wow 🙂

Not a place I had ever really though of visiting before until now. The moon pic is amazing! Adding this to the list..

Great list! Hammamet actually reminds me of a fish market in Bali, Indonesia!

Thanks Agness!

I like your list. I have to say I liked a few other places better and was really kind of disappointed in Sidi Bou Said,let alone where Star Wars was filmed, however I loved Tunisia. My favorite place by far was El Kef! Great post.

I have never been there, looks like some really nice places to visit .

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Shutterstock / Valery Bareta

It may be but a slim wedge of North Africa’s vast horizontal expanse, but Tunisia has enough history and diverse natural beauty to pack a country many times its size. With a balmy, sand-fringed Mediterranean coast, scented with jasmine and sea breezes, and where the fish on your plate is always fresh, Tunisia is prime territory for a straightforward sun-sand-and-sea holiday. But beyond the beaches, it’s a thrilling, underrated destination where distinct cultures and incredible extremes of landscape – forested coastlines, Saharan sand seas in the south – can be explored in just a few days.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

This sprawling maze of ancient streets and alleyways is one of the most impressive medieval medinas in North Africa and one of Tunisia's great treasures…

El Jem Amphitheatre

This Unesco World Heritage–listed colosseum was the second-largest in the Roman world (after Rome's); it was 149m long by 124m wide, with three tiers of…

Kairouan’s medina feels like it ebbs and flows to a different rhythm to modern Tunisia. Long protected by its monumental walls and babs (gates), most of…

Sousse Archaeological Museum

Located inside the 11th-century kasbah, this museum showcases an extraordinary collection of 2nd- and 3rd-century Roman mosaics, one of the best in the…

Archaeological Museum

A 1km walk from the El Jem Amphitheatre (follow the signs), this museum showcases an exceptional collection of Roman mosaics. All are richly coloured, in…

Bardo Museum

The main draw at the Tunisia's top museum is its magnificent collection of Roman mosaics. These provide a vibrant and fascinating portrait of ancient…

Arguably the most magnificent Roman site in Africa, Dougga’s ancient remains – a Unesco World Heritage site since 1997 – are startlingly complete, giving…

On the cultivated amber slopes of Mt Mekrima, the fascinating but little-visited ruins of ancient Uthina are the remains of one of the Roman Empire's…

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Tunisia and beyond

Travel to Tunisia in 2024: Tips + Itinerary

By Joan Torres 20 Comments Last updated on January 4, 2024

From the most epic Roman ruins in Africa to crystal Mediterranean beaches, the Sahara and a great Berber culture, Tunisia is a small piece of land with a lot to offer and is a great alternative to Morocco as, basically, you get a similar Maghrebi culture with the difference that many parts of Tunisia remain unvisited and the country is mostly free of the classic scams.

The golden era in which Tunisia used to be a prime tourist destination came to an end with the 2015 terrorist attacks   – unfortunately – but, even during those times, the vast majority of visitors were resort-like tourists, the most adventurous ones visiting the most typical tourist attractions on an organized tour.

Even my parents visited Tunisia for a few days many years ago, but went there with everything organized.

This means that Tunisia hasn’t really witnessed the arrival of independent travelers and I believe this is one of the things that make any trip to Tunisia a great travel experience, as you will be continuously meeting curious, kind-hearted locals everywhere you go.

No more than a few hours from any European city by air, this is perhaps, the closest and easiest exotic, offbeat destination to visit during your 1 or 2-week holiday.

This guide contains everything you need to know to travel to Tunisia , including travel tips and a compelling 2-week itinerary.

I also recommend you read: How to visit Tunis in 3 days

In this Tunisia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• COVID-19 restrictions
• Getting there
• Travel insurance
• Best time to visit
• Tour or not?
• The people, the country
• Moving around
• Is it safe?
• Day 1, 2 – Tunis
• Day 3 – Sousse
• Day 4 – Monastir
• Day 5 – Kairouan
• Day 6 – El Jem
• Day 7 – Sfax
• Day 8, 9 – Tataouine & around
• Day 10, 11 – Tozeur & around
• Day 12 – El Kef
• Day 13 – Jugurtha Tableland
• Day 14 – Dougga
• More information

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😷 COVID-19 bans and restrictions for traveling to Tunisia

For traveling to Tunis, you must be present either proof of vaccination or PCR test.

Travel Insurance for Tunis with COVID-19 coverage

IATI Insurance  is one of the few providers that offers full Coronavirus coverage, not only when it comes to treatment, but also cancellations costs in case you tested positive before departure.

Remember that you should travel with insurance.

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🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Tunisia

Pretty much any nationality can get a 3-month visa-free on arrival.

🛫 How to get to Tunisia

How to travel to tunisia by air.

Tunis International Airport has connections with several European cities and other major cities in Africa. I recommend you check on Tunisair and Skyscanner. I personally flew from Barcelona with Tunisair.

How to travel to Tunisia by land

Tunisia has a border with Algeria and Libya .

• Algeria – You can travel to Tunisia from Algeria and use the entry point near Tabarka – not sure if foreigners can use the other borders.
• Libya – You can’t really cross from Libya, not because the border is closed but because, currently, Libya is not issuing tourist visas and the only way to get in is via an agency who will fake a business visa for you, and they don’t recommend you enter or exit via Tunisia, as it would not be credible that you came to Libya for business purposes.

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• All types of plans: from families to budget backpackers
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⛅ Best time to visit Tunisia

The best thing about Tunisia is that this is really a year-round destination.

The northern part of the country is purely Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers so, if you fancy the beach, July and August should prove best, and towns and cities are great to visit any time of the year. The arid south, however, is best visited in winter, otherwise, the heat might not let you enjoy it that much.

I visited Tunisia for 3 weeks from mid-April to the beginning of May and it was the perfect time. The weather in the northern part was absolutely pleasant, with a little rain sometimes, and the heat in the southern part was still quite bearable.

Should you travel in Tunisia independently or on an organized tour?

I visited Tunisia 100% independently, and I recommend you do the same.

However, if you are short of time and want to visit specific places on organized tours, I recommend you use GetYourGuide , a website where you can book any type of tour, from half-day trips to several-day tours with just one click.

🕌 The people and the culture

They are too African to be considered European, but they are too European to be considered African.

These are the words from an expat American woman living in the city of Tunis who I had the chance to meet during my trip to Tunisia.

Along with Beirut , Tunis might be the most secular and open-minded Arab city and you just need to go to the city center and see how people dress.

You find traditional, religious people too, of course, but the beauty of Tunis, and Tunisia in general, is that everybody is free to practice Islam the way they please and, on most occasions, you won’t be judged.

This is why in Tunis you are likely to see a young girl with a short skirt walking in a local market among other women wearing the full hijab, a mix you will rarely see in other Arab countries.

Sousse, Monastir and Sfax are other modern cities with a significant number of liberal people, especially among the young generation.

However, religion still plays an important role in Tunisia’s society. Even Tunis has its traditional districts and the rural areas are very conservative.

But what is true is that in Tunisia there isn’t much fundamentalism compared to other Arab nations and countries in the Middle East.

Arabic is the official language in the country, and I believe it is quite similar to the Arabic spoken in Morocco and Algeria.

However, it is very different from other Middle Eastern countries, from Egypt to Oman .

In fact, they don’t even understand each other. When I was living in Dubai, in my office there were Arabs from all the Arab countries and Tunisians would always address Middle Easterners in English.

French & English – Given this used to be a French colony, except for uneducated people from rural areas, pretty much everybody in the country speaks impeccable French, and the best educated Tunisians also have good English, so traveling in Tunisia doesn’t imply any language barrier.

🍲 Food: What can you eat when you visit Tunisia?

Just before my trip to Tunisia, I had spent around 5 weeks in Morocco, so I wasn’t really expecting to taste many different flavors, but I was very wrong.

First of all, Tunisian food is extremely spicy. Like a lot spicy, sometimes Indian-level spicy.

I don’t know why, but Tunisia must be the only Mediterranean country that uses chilis in their cuisine. They love it and also a chilli sauce named harissa , which they put everywhere.

One Tunisian lady told me that every time she travels to Europe, even if it is just for a few days, she always brings some harissa .

Moreover, due to its proximity to Italy, Italian food is a thing here, and the truth is that spaghetti with tomato sauce is a staple, something you can order in any local eatery for less than $1 sometimes, but it isn’t very good pasta to be honest.

Overall, Tunisian food is good, however, whereas in the city of Tunis (and Sousse as well) I had quite a few feasts, in the rest of the country most places would only serve very basic stuff, especially in the south, Tozeur and El Kef.

Must-try dishes in during your trip in Tunisia

• Brik – The most popular snack in Tunisia consists of a filled fried pastry, usually with egg or tuna. By the way, Tunisians love tuna.
• Ojja – Sort of a tomato stew that comes in different versions, from local sausage ( mergez ) to seafood. Ojja is available in pretty much any local eatery.
• Cous-cous – Maghrebi star-dish, and the Tunisian version is very spicy.
• Seafood – In the coastal towns of Tunisia you can find some really great seafood, the most remarkable I ate being some stewed octopus in a tomato gravy, absolutely tender and delicious. I ate it in Sousse, in a restaurant called Cafe Bellar.

🛺 How to move around: transportation

Remember to get travel insurance for Tunisia I strongly recommend IATI Insurance as it has COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Typically, there are 2 ways to travel around Tunisia:

Traveling around Tunisia by train

The Tunisian train is great. It is reliable, relatively fast and just soooo good. There is a train line that goes along the coast all the way to Gabés and, as far as I am concerned, the whole line is fully operational.

During my visit, however, the line that connects Tunis with Gabés through Tozeur, in the west of the country, had been closed for several years, but it seems they have already resumed all trains. In any case, you can check timings on the official railway website .

Traveling around Tunisia by louage

Louages are the local mini-vans which basically, you will ride for traveling to places you can’t reach by train. I used them to travel to Kairouan, El Kef and Tozeur and some places in the south. They are very cheap.

💰 Money, budget and costs

In Tunisia, they use the Tunisian Dinar (TND) and approximately:

1 USD = 3.15 TND

Most cities will have ATMs and changing either € or USD should be very easy.

How much does it cost to travel to Tunisia?

Tunisia is cheap, much more than Morocco, mainly because of the currency’s devaluation after the massive drop in tourism. Cost of the most typical things:

• Street sandwich (falafel) – 1-2 dinar
• Local meal  (1 ojja) – 5 dinars
• Meal in a good restaurant – 20 dinars
• Entrance fees to places like Dougga ruins, ribats, fortresses, museums – 8 to 12 dinars
• Budget hotel – 20-30 dinars
• Mid-range hotel – From 40-50 dinars
• Transportation – I paid around 4-7 dinars for most train journeys, same for louage.

On a tight budget, I seriously think you can go backpacking in Tunisia for $ a day 20.

Please note that the below table is just an approximation.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Tunisia?

Tunisia has had some safety concerns in the past, especially throughout 2015, and that was the main reason why tourism dropped dramatically.

However, the situation has improved drastically and for a better understanding, I recommend you read my analysis:

Is Tunisia a safe country to visit?

Tunisia Itinerary – Places to visit in 2 weeks

How long should you go backpacking in Tunisia for?

I personally spent almost 3 weeks, went a bit slower than the suggested itinerary and visited one or two additional places not included here such as Djerba Island.

Tunisia 2-week travel itinerary map

Day 1, 2 – Visit the capital of Tunis

A third Mediterranean, a third European and a third North African, Tunis is a city with many cultural contrasts and most likely, the starting point of your Tunisia travel itinerary.

On the one hand, the old city is composed of an African, Maghrebi medina, not very different from the ones you would find in Morocco, but without the feeling of being in a tourist trap.

And, on the other hand, you also have the European part of town, which is filled with French-style facades, boulangeries and a relatively Westernized atmosphere.

In addition, think about all the nightlife, nice restaurants, the Roman ruins of Carthage and the Mediterranean-like district of Sidi Bou Said, and I seriously believe that traveling to Tunisia just for visiting Tunis is truly worthwhile.

Things to do in Tunis

I spent whole 5 days in Tunis, and managed to squeeze the things I visited in a 3-day travel guide

Where to stay in Tunis

Backpacker Hostel – Medina Youth Hostel   – Located in the heart of the medina, this is the most backpacking-friendly hostel in Tunis.

Mid-range hotel – Dar La Leila – Super nice, traditionally decorated lovely hotel, the top-rated hotel in Tunis, and super charming staff.

Top-end hotel – Dar El Jeld Hotel and Spa – A 5-star but traditional hotel that offers all the luxuries.

Best tours in Tunis

I recommend you look for tours via GetYourGuide .

Carthage and Sidi Bou Said – Roman ruins of Carthage and the Santorini-like city of Sidi Bou Said.

Bardo Museum & Medina – The classic medina + the museum containing one of the largest collections in the world of Roman mosaics.

Day 3 – The resort-like town of Sousse

This is the prime tourist destination in the country, for foreigneirs and Tunisians alike, but for independent travelers, it feels a bit odd.

It feels weird because the coastal front line of the new part of town is composed of ugly, mass tourism-like buildings, restaurants with over-priced menus and just the kind of trashy tourism I would try to run away from.

However, Sousse is the city that witnessed all those unfortunate terrorist events from 2015 , so during my visit in the month of May, it felt like a real ghost town and, in any case, the old part of Sousse is a great place to get lost in, among its narrow alleys.

Moreover, Sousse is a good base to explore a few places around such as Kairouan, Monastir or El Jem. I mean, you can find accommodation in those cities but Sousse has the largest offer of hotels, restaurants, and cafés so, for me, it made sense to hang out there for a while.

Looking for visiting Sousse on a tour? CLICK HERE TO CHECK ALL AVAILABLE TOURS IN SOUSSE

Things to do in Sousse

• Medina – Like all medinas in Africa, the medina of Sousse is a maze of streets where the highlight is getting lost and escaping from the main souvenir area.
• Great Mosque – From the 8th century. They make you pay an entrance fee, a bit unusual for being a regular mosque, but Tunisia is mostly like that.
• Ribat – Old Islamic fortress from the 8th century. It contains one of the oldest praying halls in Africa.
• Sousse Archaeological Museum – I am the least museum-friendly person but I loved the museum of Sousse because it contains some of the largest collections of Roman mosaics, including a massive one of Medusa . Check the official website for timings.

Ribat – A ribat is a small Arabic fortress typically found along the northern African coast, and built during the first years of the Muslim conquest. Most coastal towns in Tunisia have their own ribat and they tend to be pretty well-preserved. The word ”ribat” means ”defense of Islam”.

Where to stay in Sousse

Budget/backpacker – Hotel Paris – Basic hotel with relatively good Wi-Fi inside the medina. I stayed here.

Mid-range – Dar Antonia – Traditional, fancy dar in the medina.

How to get to Sousse from Tunis

There are several trains a day running to Sousse from Tunis central station.

A ticket would typically cost 10,000 dinars and it takes a bit more than 2 hours.

Day 4 – Day trip to Monastir

If you have the time, Monastir is a pleasant town that was founded as a Phoenician trading settlement more than 2,000 years ago.

Monastir is a peaceful, free-of-crowds town, as the touristic area is quite far away from the center, so it has managed to keep a certain charm, plus in my opinion, Monastir has the most well-preserved ribat in the country, a set of labyrinthic passages and stairways that seem taken from a movie.

Moreover, Monastir is the birthplace of Habib Bourguiba , the man who lead the country to independence from France and ruled the country from 1956 to 1987.

Other than that, Monastir is an all-right place to hang around for a while.

My visit here was a peculiar one. After visiting the ribat , I met with one local lady who had contacted me through Instagram and she took me to the local radio station’s offices – she was working there – and I kind of kept staring at what they were doing for a while.

Then, we went to Habib Bourguiba’s mausoleum.

You can also visit Monastir on an organized tour (along with Sousse) from Tunis. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

How to get Monastir from Sousse

Monastir is a 20km train ride from Sousse and trains run continuously throughout the day for $1 or less.

The Great Roman Civil War Do you know about the famous Roman Civil War between Julius Caesar and Pompey ? It was the war that led Rome from a Republic to an Empire, and the last stage that guided Julius Caesar to victory occurred on the battlefield between Sousse and Monastir. The coolest thing about it is that today’s Monastir was Caesar’s base, and Sousse was Pompey’s. They even made a TV series on Netflix.

Day 5 – Day trip to Kairouan, the holiest city in Tunisia

Some sources claim Kairouan is the holiest Islamic city in Africa, and the fourth in the world after Mecca, Medina and the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.

I am not sure about that, however, because I have been to other places in the Middle East and Africa with the same claim but it is a fact that this is the holiest place to visit in Tunisia and the atmosphere is so different from anywhere along the coast, so low-key, so traditional and overwhelmingly welcoming.

Interested in visiting Kairouan on a guided tour? CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL AVAILABLE TOURS IN KAIROUAN

Things to do in Kairouan

At the Great Mosque, you can purchase one ticket that allows you to visit several sites and these are the ones I visited:

• Great Mosque – From the 7th century, one of the holiest Islamic places in Africa.
• Bir Barouta – An Ottoman-era building that was built around a well which apparently, connects to another well in Mecca. Sadly, they enslaved a poor camel that spends his day turning the well’s wheel.
• Zaouia of Sidi Sahab – Very beautiful Muslim complex with Andalusian-style tiles.

How to get to Kairouan from Sousse

There isn’t a train line passing through Kairouan, so you need to take a louage , which takes a bit more than 1 hour.

Sousse bus station is outside of town, here: 35.809717, 10.636374.

Mullah stories In Kairouan (in Zaouia of Sidi Sahab) I was approached by a kind Tunisian who gave me a 30-minute Islamic lesson in an attempt to persuade me to consider converting to Islam, and it was only 30 minutes because very kindly, I told him I had to leave. A very intense man, but I have bumped into many of those in my travels, and they always tell you the story of a British or an American who found God, hence inner-peace and happiness, after listening to his words.

Day 6 – Day trip to El Jem, an impressive Roman amphitheater

El Jem was one of my favorite places in my Tunisia itinerary.

This is home to one of the most epic Roman amphitheaters in the world, in fact, the 3rd largest one, built in the 2nd century, but for obvious reasons, it is much less crowded than the one in Rome.

Around 1km from the amphitheater, there is an archaeological museum also containing plenty of Roman mosaics, many of whom feature the scene when wild animals were released into the arena to eat convicts.

You must get the ticket at the amphitheater’s office, and it also includes the museum entrance.

Since it is on the way to Sfax, I took a train from Sousse early in the morning, visited El Jem for a few hours, and then I could easily get a train to Sfax.

Next to El Jem’s train station, there is a fancy hotel whose staff were kind enough to keep my backpack while I visited the city.

How to get to El Jem from Sousse

It’s a 1-hour train journey from Sousse central train station

Looking for guided visits to El Jem? CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL AVAILABLE TOURS TO EL JEM

Day 7 – Sfax, the coolest medina in Tunisia

Before traveling to Tunisia, I had read in a guidebook that the locals of Sfax were believed to be very thrifty hard-workers.

In my experience, most guidebooks are always filled with unlikely quotes but upon my arrival in Tunis, I spent some time discussing my Tunisian itinerary with a local guy who told me the exact same thing.

And, perhaps, this is the reason why, despite being untouched by tourism, Sfax has some sort of cosmopolitan feel by African standards, and many people there seem to be very open-minded.

Additionally, Sfax is also home to the best medina in the whole Tunisia, very big and authentic which hasn’t been spoiled yet by the arrival of tourists.

Things to do in Sfax

• Getting lost in the medina – As I said, this purely African medina is very traditional and authentic.
• Abandoned Synagogue – Tunisia used to be home to a large Jewish community and, in Sfax, there is an abandoned synagogue.
• Place de la Republique – French-style buildings at the entrance to the medina.

Where to stay in Sfax

There are 2 budget auberges (one next to other) 2km north west outside of the Medina.

For more hotel options in Sfax,

Jews in Tunisia Tunisia today has one of the largest Jewish communities in the Arab world, mainly living in Tunis city and Djerba Island. Of course, most of them migrated to Israel after the Israel-Palestinian war but many of them remain and a few synagogues are still functional, another fact that proves overall the tolerance in Tunisia.

Day 8, 9 – Tataouine & around: southern Berber lands

The lesser-visited southern part of Tunisia is an arid territory that extends all the way to the Libyan border.

Berber villages, camels, ancient ksars (fortified Berber villages), and just remoteness and inhospitality, no wonder why George Lucas decided to shoot Star Wars in these lands.

This is just so different from any place you visited in Tunisia, way more conservative and home to the Berbers, the indigenous people of North Africa before the Arabs came.

How to visit Tataouine The area is vast, touristic sites are scattered, and there is no public transportation. I mean, there are a few buses but it is not a convenient way to move around, not even for backpackers. The best way to explore this area is by either renting a car or going on a tour. I rented a car for a day in a rental car office in Medenine and paid less than $25.

Things to do in Tataouine & around

On a normal path, you will need an entire day to visit these places, and still, you may have to rush a bit. If you want to leave early in the morning, I suggest you rent the car on the day before, as rental car shops didn’t open until 9-10am.

The ”green pins” from the previous interactive map mark the following places:

• Ksar Ouled Soltane – The most well-preserved ghorfas in the area. Ghorfas are ancient 4-story buildings that Berbers used to store the grain.
• Chenini – For me, this was the best place to visit in Tataouine. A massive ancient ksar from the 12th century sitting on a hilltop. Gorgeous.
• Guermassa – Another great ksar, not as epic as Chenini’s but still great. I only saw it from the bottom because it takes almost 1 hour to go up and I didn’t have time. The top, however, can be reached by 4WD.
• Ghomrassen – Off the beaten track modern town with pretty cool local architecture, and the ideal place to stop for lunch.
• Ksar Hadada – This ksar used to be a movie set for Star Wars. I am not a big Star Wars fan, so for me, it was not that interesting, as it was nothing more than some commercial, over-restored ghorfas .

Where to stay in the area

I recommend you stay in Tataouine.

Budget – Auberge Alferdaus – An all right auberge/pension for budget travelers and backpackers.

Apartment – Dar Essadeg – Full traditional apartment.

Mid-range – Sangho Privilege Tataouine – For a comfortable stay, this oasis hotel has great facilities, including a pool, and it is not expensive at all for what you get.

Day 10, 11 – The oasis-town of Tozeur & around

Tozeur is a pleasant oasis town with a very unique old quarter whose buildings are made of bricks (hand-made apparently) and a base from which to explore other mountain oases and check out potential camel caravans.

They claim that those oases have been inhabited for 10,000 years.

If you have been reading my blog for a while, you will know that I like to be honest, and the truth is that this was my least favorite part of my trip to Tunisia.

First of all, because all those landscapes are in my opinion, a small version of the ones you find in north Oman , a country I visited multiple times. And second of all, because this was the only place where the main sites were just packed with tourists, many of them being the irresponsible type. But to be fair, it also didn’t help that the weather was awful (loads of wind and sand).

But anyways, traveling is extremely subjective and you might have a different experience.

Like Tataouine, the area around Tozeur is best explored by car or on an organized excursion. Most hotels can arrange it for you. I personally explored all places with a local friend I had met on Instagram.

Things to do in Tozeur

Please see the ”orange pins” from the previous interactive map.

• Chebika – A small village home to a massive palmeraie.
• Tamerza – Another small village with a palmeraie, a small canyon, and a waterfall.
• Midès – And another small oasis village but the highlight is the stunning views you get to see from the road that leads to it. 
• Ong Jemal – A desert famous for its sunsets and the location of a Star Wars movie set, where the original decoration still remains. Tour agencies will tell you need a 4×4 to reach the place but it is not true.

Where to stay in Tozeur

Budget – Residence Warda – A budget pension good for backpackers.

Mid-range – Residence Loued – A very pleasant traditional hotel at the heart of the Old City.

How to get to Tozeur from Tataouine

The journey is rather more than 300km.

From Tataouine, you need to take a louage to Medenine and from Medenine, another one to Gabés (not sure if you can find a direct one from Tataouine).

If you are lucky and trains are functional, you should be able to take a train from Gabés to Tozeur. Otherwise, take a louage from Gabés to Gafsa and from Gafsa to Tozeur.

Day 12 – El Kef, traditional off the beaten track town

El Kef and the area around was my favorite part of my Tunisia itinerary.

It is a barely visited town and the top of the medina features a kasbah from where you get stunning views of the city and the green meadows surrounding it.

It has a very authentic, traditional atmosphere as well. I spent 3 nights here – as I used it as a base to explore some places around – and didn’t bump into a single tourist.

Where to stay in Le Kef

There aren’t many options, but I stayed in a hotel close to the Medina named Hotel Sicca Veneria , where I paid $15 a night. It was good!

How to get to Le Kef from Tozeur

It’s a long way, around 330km.

From Tozeur, you need to first get a louage to Gafsa. From Gafsa, a second louage to Kasserine and from Kasserine to Le Kef. It takes the entire day.

Day 13 – Day trip to Jugurtha Tableland

This off the beaten track gem was the top attraction I visited in Tunisia.

A natural military fortress, Jugurtha Tableland is a massive flat-topped mountain that rises above 1270 meters, and that has been used as a fortress for centuries, from the Romans to today’s Tunisian Army.

That’s why this is kind of a sensitive place, especially because this is a border area from where you see Algeria – stunning views of Algeria, by the way – so having a guard with you all the time is a must (free of charge).

How to get to Jugurtha Tableland from El Kef

From El Kef bus station, you can take a louage to the border town with Algeria named Qalat as Sanan.

Most likely, the driver will already know about your intentions, so he will drop you at the police station, where they will make you answer a few questions and register for visiting Jugurtha.

I was extremely stupid to forget my passport in El Kef but, luckily, my Spanish ID was enough for them.

Then, the police helped me looking for a taxi to take me to the bottom of Jughurta (4km), and I paid the equivalent of around $10.

Once you arrive, an official guide will welcome you and take you to the top.

It also possible to camp at the top, but you will have to get permission at the police office, and a guard will be with you all night – I mean, they have their own huts. However, be aware that it is extremely windy.

Day 14 – Day trip to Dougga Roman ruins

When I traveled to Tunisia, I also got the chance to check out this amazing place, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997 named Dougga,

Dougga has some of the most impressive Roman ruins I have ever seen outside of Rome, probably more stunning than the ruins of Baalbek in Lebanon , or Jerash in Jordan , not only for the ruins themselves, which are in great conditions but also because Dougga was set up in a prime, fertile location, today surrounded by beautiful olive trees and wheat plantations.

Absolutely gorgeous.

Dougga is dominated by the perfectly well-preserved Capitol, dedicated to Jupiter, but you can also find many other temples in good conditions and an amphitheater.

Allow yourself a few hours to visit the area and try to come by the end of the day, when little crowds are gone and, if possible, on a weekday.

How to get to Dougga from El Keff

It was a bit complicated.

From El Kef, I took a louage to a village named Al Karib. Once in Al Karib, I asked for a louage going to Dougga town, which is 4km from the ruins, but everybody kept me saying there weren’t any, so I decided to hitchhike the remaining 20km, but it was a bit hard, as nobody would stop, don’t know why.

Then, on my way walking from Dougga town to the ruins, a kind man – a worker – picked me up.

Coming back to El Kef was fairly easy, as I just got in the first louage that passed by. By the way, from Dougga, you could easily go back to Tunis.

❗ More information for backpacking in Tunisia

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Get the Tunisia Travel Guide by Lonely Planet – A bit outdated but so far, the only one available.

All guides and articles for traveling in Tunisia destination

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Is Tunisia Safe?

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

• Ethiopia Travel Guide
• Eritrea Travel Guide
• Somaliland Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Sudan
• Travel Guide to Egypt
• Libya Travel Guide
• Mali Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Mauritania

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20 comments

Great blog and info as always:)Am supposed to go to Tunisia in october for 2,5 weeks ,still plan on going if……

Love reading your post, as it brings so many great memories. We have done 2 weeks roadtrip around the country too, but left the northern part for next time – I sure hope to be able to return soon and that these crazy times will be just a bad memory. All the best!

Has anyone rented a car and drove around Tunisia independently?

I did, in the south. Very easy

Man, let me tell you something and you can take it as a fact: any Arabic speaker can speak freely with another Arabic speaker from anywhere in the world. Yes, there are diferences and they can tell roughly from where the other dude is. Like I can tell a Texan from an Australian.

Hey Joan: Another great trip report. Currently planning my itinerary for my summer trip to Tunisia. This will largely be a RnR/beach vacay but looking to include some side excursions. Will likely position ourselves in Sousse and wondering if Dougga is doable as a day trip via public transportation? Also how does it compare to the amphitheatre in Busra, Syria?

Just want to make sure, the train to Sousse from Tunis is 10,000 Dinars or more than 3,000 USD for a 2 hour train ride?

Hi Joan, Thank you for a great introduction to Tunesia. Being European I typically spend my vacations at tourist hotspots in Spain, Greece, or Italy. It’s nice – but far from the adventure you’re describing. Need to convince the rest of my family to become a bit more adventourous 🙂

Mega helpful. Thank you.

Is there anyway to get from Sousse to Dougga?

Thank you for the information. Planning on a 2-week trip end of April 2023. Trying to source information about the Northern part especially traveling from/to Tunis – Bizerte – Cap Engela – Tabarka – Tunis

I’d love to visit Dougga. You said it’s possible to get back to Tunis from Dougga, is there a louage going between the two?

Hi Sarah, not from Dougga, since that is an archaeological site, but from nearby villages or towns.

Good evening, Hope everything is fine. I am planning to go to Tunisia and I wonder if there is a way to go from Medénin to Djerba Island by public transportation. If you know if there is a way I would like you to confirm it to me. Thank you in advance

Hey, I don’t remember exactly but I did go there by bus. It should be easy, just go to the bus station and ask for it

hello joan . i am planning to visit tunisia in august and move around with louages. in your article you mentioned that you visited tozeur with a louage. do you remember if it was direct ( tunis – tozeur ) or i have to change a bus in another city ? also , the station in which louage leave ( from tunis ) is called moncef bey , right ? any information will be helpful . thanks in advance and also thank you for sharing all these travel informations for countries that are not so visited . greetings from greece 🙂

Hi Konstantina! I traveled slowly from Tunis to Tozeur, stopping in many places in between, so I can’t really tell!

Hola Joan, qué tal?

A ver si hay suerte y ves el mensaje a tiempo. Estoy en Túnez y en unos tengo pensado visitar la zona alrededor de Medenine/Tataouine y estoy buscando un sitio para alquilar coche un día. Me podrías pasar el nombre, la ubicación o algún contacto aún mejor del sitio dónde alquilaste tú?

Muchas gracias, saludos!

Hola Jack, lamentablemente jamás me apunté la dirección, pero todo lo que hice fue buscar en Google Rent a Car

hello , thank you for writing about Tunisia but I think you should update your prices for the food , those prices must be from 10 years ago !

They are from 2019 but if you have any updated prices, they are most welcome 🙂

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Travel in Tunisia – 10 Best Tips for Independent Travellers

Independent travel in Tunisia is easier than most people would expect.

This country has a fantastic transport network to help you discover all of the highlights and more.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

Many visitors, particularly Europeans, head to Tunisia as part of a week-long all-inclusive package deal.

The drawcard is the beaches along the Mediterranean coastline of Tunisia and the competitive prices for many chic resorts.

But if you’re interested in discovering Tunisia beyond just the resorts and tourist towns, you’re in for an exciting time.

For adventurous travellers looking for a destination to explore in more depth, I’d recommend Tunisia.

If you ask us, this North African nation is so underrated. We had an amazing few weeks of discovering this country and its diversity.

Read our best tips for travel in Tunisia below and our detailed 14-day itinerary for Tunisia , and you’re all set!

10 Best Tips for Independent Travel in Tunisia

We travelled to Tunisia in late November and early December 2021.

The prices quoted in this itinerary for Tunisia are in local currency, Tunisian Dinar (TND).

At the time, 1 USD = 2.9 TND

Table of Contents

1) Get a SIM Card on Arrival or Buy a digital eSIM

The wifi and internet are not very reliable in Tunisia so I’d recommend picking up a SIM Card for your phone with one of the providers at the airport.

There are several to choose from and they all offer similar data plans. I got an Orange SIM Card for free at the airport, then topped it up with 10GB for 20 TND (USD $7). You can also get 2GB for 10 TND.

Alternatively, an easier option would be to get an eSIM for Tunisia. This eSIM gives you 1GB data for 7 days . The price is $9.50; you can download it on your phone within minutes. Once you’ve arrived in Tunisia, you’re all set to go.

Note: Before buying an eSIM, you must ensure your phone is compatible. Check this on Airalo website before making any purchase.

Travel in Tunisia will be easier if you’re connected

It means you can access the BOLT app and order a ride, book your hotels on the go with  Booking.com  and find reviews on the best places to eat in Tunisia.

If you’re a food-lover like me, don’t miss my post on  the 8 most popular street foods in Tunisia  that you must try.  

2) Download BOLT Ridesharing App

Download the BOLT App before you arrive, (or when you’re here). It will save you time and money.

If your French or Arabic language skills are non-existent, this app will help you get from A to B without hassle. 

It’s a useful tool to learn what fares typically costs from A to B and it works similarly to Uber.

The main difference is that you must pay cash (Tunisian dinar) for your fare directly to the driver once your ride is complete.

3) Get a Bank Account that doesn’t charge International Transaction Fees 

There is no good reason why you should still be paying International transaction fees or ATM withdrawal fees in 2022. Banks have come a long way over the years.

If you haven’t signed up for a bank account with ING Direct yet, then you’ll most likely be paying unnecessary bank fees when you travel to different countries. 

During my trip to Tunisia (read  our 14-day itinerary for Tunisia here ) I was charged 12 TND ($4.20) each time I withdrew local currency from an ATM.

But, because I have a bank account with ING Direct, every ATM bank fee was reimbursed to me. It’s fantastic! I’m also refunded for any foreign transaction fees charged while travelling abroad with this bank.

For more information about ING and why it’s the best debit card for travellers,  read our post with more information .

Need an online account that lets you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally? A Wise account provides these services, and it will save you loads of cash in International fees.

Send your first International transfer for FREE when you sign up here for a Wise account.

4) Download Maps.me App and use louage for transport

One of the best tools to get around Tunisia is the Maps.me  app. You can download offline maps of the country, so you never have to use mobile data to get around.

The map also shows hiking trails and walking paths, which Google Maps doesn’t have.

Although Tunisia has a great train network between cities and buses, it is much faster to use louage. Louage is the name for small vans that connect all cities and towns.

You go to the dedicated station in town, buy a ticket from the ticket office, and sit in the van that fits 8 people.

Once the van is full, it departs directly to the final destination. It is the fastest way to get from A to B in Tunisia whiteout using taxi or your own car.

• 🔥 Hot Tip: Book accommodation in advance on Booking.com
• 🎟 Book your attractions and tickets online: We recommend Viator and GetYourGuide
• 🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
• 📸 Join a Group Tour: Find some amazing Group Tours here
• ✅ Get Connected with an eSIM: Fast, easy and affordable! View easy eSIM options here

5) Booking.com offers the best range of accommodation for travel in Tunisia

We love  Booking.com . It’s one of the most used apps on our phones. This is our go-to for booking accommodation on our  adventure to visit every country worldwide .

Time and time again, Booking.com offered us the best accommodation and prices as we travelled around Tunisia.

The best part is that the app is straightforward, and you pay in local currency or credit card once you arrive at your accommodation provider.

In many cases, the app gives you the option to reserve the hotel for your selected date, and if you need to change it or cancel, there are often no cancellation fees. 

6) Drink Only Bottled Water or Bring a LifeStraw

Avoid drinking the tap water in Tunisia and stick to bottled water. Large bottles of water (1.5L) can be purchased from small shops and supermarkets for about $0.25.

Better yet, bring along a LifeStraw filtered water bottle.  You will be helping the environment reduce plastic waste, and you can take it with you on your future travelling adventures.

7) Check Viator to book experiences in Tunisia

Tunisia has some amazing highlights and places to visit. There’s so much to see from visiting Star Wars film set locations, desert day trips in the south, or the epic amphitheatre in El Jem.

If you’re travelling solo or want to share the experience, consider checking out either  Viator  or GetYourGuide website.

Browse and book activities for travel in Tunisia and all over the world. We love that if plans change, you can cancel most bookings for free up to 24 hours before they start.

We’d highly recommend this cooking class in Tunis  and this day trip to Kairouan and El Jem .

8) Download XE currency converter

This is a tip we’d recommend for travel in Tunisia and for every country you visit. We regularly use XE Currency Converter to convert currency and exchange rates when on the go.

I’d recommend downloading the app to your phone and adding the Tunisian Dinar (local currency) to your browser.

Whenever you need to withdraw currency at an ATM or change other foreign currencies in Tunisia, you can double-check you’re getting the right rate within seconds on XE. 

I frequently use my XE app to calculate the prices of goods in supermarkets and at markets if I’m buying souvenirs or food.

African Food Guide – 10 Best Food Countries in AFRICA

The Perfect 14 Days Itinerary for Tunisia

The Fascinating Medina in Tunis – 5 Unique Things To Do

9) Exchange your Tunisian Dinars before your departure 

As you explore and travel in Tunisia, remember to keep any foreign currency receipts or ATM currency withdrawal receipts with you.

Before departing Tunisia, ensure you convert all of your Tunisian dinars to Euros/USD (or another hard currency) before you depart. Tunisian Dinars are impossible to exchange once you’ve departed the country.

If you exchange currency at the airport before your departure, you may be asked for the receipt proving where you got the cash initially.

10) Travel Insurance

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. Trust us, it’s one of those things you don’t want to leave home without. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing Travel Insurance.

Click here and get 15% off Heymondo insurance, offer expires 24 March!

Read more about  the 2 Best Travel Insurance Companies

Where to Stay in Tunis

Most flights from around the world will likely arrive in Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia.

My final tip for independent travel in Tunisia is to reserve at least your first-night accommodation here to begin your trip. My recommendations for affordable, comfortable, and well-located hotels, for any budget are listed below.

Budget : Dar Ya  – A great budget option in the heart of Medina. Rooms are clean and comfortable, yet only shared bathroom facilities are available. Breakfast is included in the price.

The staff is very welcoming and helpful in providing local knowledge to explore Tunis and the surrounding area. Check prices here.

Midrange : Dar Ben Gacem  – A beautifully restored old Tunisian home, now a boutique hotel. The rooms are beautiful, and an amazing breakfast is included in the rate (the best omelette and coffee in Tunisia).

The young staff is always around to help with anything you need, even if it’s to prepare you a hot pot of tea or coffee after a long day of exploring. Check prices here.

Luxury:  Treat yourself: Hôtel Belvédère Fourati  – If you’ve got the budget that allows a swish stay in this hotel in Tunis, I recommend it. Check prices here.

Get Connected with eSIM

Get connected easily on your travels—buy an eSIM! An eSIM works like an app: buy it, download it, and get connected in minutes! It’s easy, affordable, and convenient. Keep your original phone number, too!

Click below and view which eSIM data plan you need for your next adventure. Use our referral code: RACHEL5045 , to get $3 off your first purchase !

Travel Tips for Tunisia

We recommend you read our post about the  Perfect 14 Days Itinerary for Tunisia.  This is the route we took, and it was ideal.

We’ve included prices and details of local transport, where to stay, and essential information to ensure smooth travels here.

Check out these 5 unique things to do in Medina, Tunis.  And, our post explaining  8 of the best street eats in Tunisia  cannot be missed!

Also, it’s worth checking out our ESSENTIAL Packing List for Africa . We used this exact packing list to travel to all 54 African nations.

If you’re interested to read about some of our crazy adventures, our 2019 recap of our travels in West Africa will give you an idea of how it was. And, if you’re considering travelling to West Africa yourself, read these 17 Important Things to Know Before Travelling to West Africa .

Our  African Food Map – A Food Guide to 54 Countries  is a great read, so be sure to check it out.

For more travel advice, tips, and useful websites we use to travel the world, head to our  Travel Resources Page .

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🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

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3 Comments . Leave new

Very helpful and essential tips, especially in regards to the SIM Card… I mean you gotta have wifi , thanks for sharing

Thank you for all the great tips! I’m curious if you would recommend driving in Tunisia? Additionally, are credit cards accepted, or mainly cash is needed?

Yes, we recommend driving around Tunisia. We saw several groups of travellers doing so, most of them in 4WD vehicles. We used credit/debit cards to pay for accommodation and restaurants (we use and recommend WISE, read more here https://transferwise.com/invite/u/racheld364 ), but we always had local currency to pay for shared taxis/local transport, street food snacks and some entry fees to some cool attractions. Hope you have a great time, we really loved exploring this underrated country 🙂

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Tunisia

Written by Jess Lee Updated Jan 24, 2024

Often seen as simply a beach destination, Tunisia has a bucketful of surprising tourist attractions and things to do for those that venture off the sandy shores.

This is North Africa wrapped up into one bite-sized package.

There are alleyways of pastel-washed houses and crowded souk streets to explore in the cities; ancient ruins to discover out in the countryside; and the vast desert expanse of the Sahara to the south with its sweeping dunes, craggy mountains, and hidden, palm-tree-filled oases.

Tunisia was Rome's breadbasket, and the cultural riches the Romans left behind are more than enough reason to visit. But the history of Arab Empires has also bestowed the country with some of the region's most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture.

When you've craned your neck at Kairouan's minarets and played gladiator at El Djem , it's time to head into the Sahara to sample the raw, empty beauty of the desert.

The sun-soaked beaches of the Mediterranean coastline, fringed by palms and lapped by gentle waves, will still be waiting for you when you get back.

Discover where to go and what to see in this diverse country with our list of the top tourist attractions and places to visit in Tunisia.

1. El Djem Amphitheater

3. carthage, 4. the national bardo museum, 5. sidi bou said, 6. grand erg oriental, 7. bulla regia, 8. kairouan, 9. sousse medina, 10. chott el djerid, 11. hammamet, 13. tunis medina, 15. matmata, 16. ribat of monastir, 17. ancient sufetula.

The walls of the mighty Roman amphitheater of El Djem dwarf the surrounding modern town.

This incredibly well-preserved Roman relic is Tunisia's big sightseeing highlight, one of the most popular things to do on day trips from the coastal resorts, and one of the best examples of amphitheater architecture left standing in the world.

The monumental bulk of the walls are a reminder of Rome's once-mighty grip across North Africa.

You can still walk the corridors under the arena, just like the gladiators did. Or, climb up to the top seating tiers and sit staring across the arena, imagining the battles that took place below.

This is one of Tunisia's most famous historic sights and attracts coach-loads of day-trippers so the way to enjoy the amphitheater without the crowds is to stay the night in El Djem and visit early or late.

El Djem has a couple of decent hotels and away from the star attraction there are a handful of smaller ruins (and a museum) to explore that can easily fill an entire day in town.

If you're looking for the picture-perfect beach escape, then the island of Djerba checks all the right boxes.

The island town of Houmt Souk is the main point of interest off the beach, with an old town district that is a muddle of whitewashed houses.

Houmt Souk's shopping is an attraction in itself, with plenty of handicraft vendors for browsing and haggling opportunities off the beach.

But it's those sandy strips of shoreline out of town that are the island's most popular highlight. Pristine and trimmed by date palms, the beaches are relaxing, get-away-from-it-all settings where summer daydreams are made.

Once Rome's major rival, Carthage was the city of the seafaring Phoenicians, forever memorialized in the Punic Wars.

The atmospheric ruins of this ancient town now sit beside the sea amid the suburbs of Tunis, a warning that even the greatest cities can be reduced to rubble.

The ruins are extensive but spread out, and if you've been lucky enough to visit ancient city sites such as Ephesus in Turkey or Volubilis in Morocco, which are well-preserved, Carthage can seem quite underwhelming at first.

But these UNESCO World-Heritage-listed remnants are hugely important historically, and any tourist interested in North Africa's ancient past shouldn't miss a visit here.

Many visitors opt to visit on an organized half-day tour from Tunis (often bundled together with a visit to Sidi Bou Said), but if you prefer to spend more time exploring the ruins, you can easily head to Carthage independently.

Tunis is connected to Carthage by the city's light rail network . Disembark at Carthage-Hannibal station, and you can walk a circuit of the ancient city's most famous ruin sites and the museum. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and, if you're in Tunisia during the hotter months, start early to beat the heat.

If you only have one day in Tunisia's capital, Tunis , this museum should be high up on your to-do list.

Even non-museum fans can't fail to be impressed at the massive haul of beautiful mosaics exhibited inside the Bardo.

This is one of North Africa's top museums, and it houses one of the world's most important mosaic collections, all curated beautifully.

The museum has recently reopened after an extensive renovation and re-curation of the exhibits, which now take in more of the scope of Tunisia's history.

Its highlight though is still the mosaic collection which showcases the dazzling, intricate artistry of the Roman and Byzantine eras, with pieces cherry-picked from every major archaeological site in Tunisia.

Impossibly cute, and amazingly photogenic, Sidi Bou Said is a clifftop village of petite dimensions that seem to have fallen off an artist's canvas.

Unsurprisingly, artists have feted this little hamlet, now a high-class suburb of the capital Tunis, for decades.

The whitewashed alleyways, wrought-iron window frames, and colorful blue doors are Tunisian village architecture at its finest, while the Mediterranean backdrop is the cherry on top.

Keen photographers will want to head here early in the day, to capture Sidi Bou Said's famed scenic alleyways without the bustle of day-trippers. For panoramic vistas across the whitewashed houses and rooftops, head up to the terrace on Rue Taieb Mhiri.

This is a place to while away a lazy afternoon, simply soaking up the laid-back atmosphere and maybe indulging in a spot of shopping at one of the many local artisan and handicraft stalls.

You can easily hop on Tunis's light rail network to chug directly to Sidi Bou Said station from the central city. If you prefer to stay in Sidi Bou Said rather than in Tunis, there's also a decent range of upscale accommodation here.

Tunisia's vast Sahara covers much of the country's interior, and the most beautiful corner of the desert is the field of sand dunes known as the Grand Erg Oriental.

These poetically beautiful dunes are a surreal and gorgeous landscape of huge waves, shaped by the ever-shifting desert sands.

For many visitors, this is an adventure playground for riding dune buggies and camel treks, but nothing tops the simple pleasure of sitting atop one of these mammoth sand mountains and watching the sun set over the Sahara.

The nearest center is the desert town of Douz, from where you can organize camel, hiking, and 4WD excursions and multi-day trips to the dunes.

Tunisia has no shortage of Roman ruins, but Bulla Regia near Tabarka is the country's most interesting and intriguing site.

Here, the Roman inhabitants coped with the harsh summer climate by ingeniously building their villas underground, which has left the city houses incredibly well-preserved today.

For history lovers, this is a unique opportunity to walk through actual Roman houses, with their walls still intact, and with some of the expansive floor mosaics still in-situ. It's a glimpse of the residential life of the ancient world that you often don't see.

With mosques, madrassas, and tombs aplenty, Kairouan has more than its fair share of monuments as the fourth most important city for those of the Muslim faith.

The Arabic architecture here is truly inspiring, and the skyline is full of skinny minarets and bulky domes. But it's probably the back alleys of the city's medina that steal the show.

With narrow, maze-like lanes lined with crumbling colorful houses, Kairouan's old town has an enchanting, lost-in-time atmosphere that is a true highlight of a visit here.

The town is well known for its traditional carpet-making, and if Kairouan is part of your planned itinerary you will want to wait until you've seen the range on offer here before making a purchase.

Wily visitors elect to spend a night or two in Kairouan rather than day-trip here from Sousse or Monastir, so they can spend their time exploring. Kairouan is also a good base from which to launch out on day tours to points further west, such as the ruins of Kasserine.

Overlooked by the mighty fortifications of the ribat and kasbah, the medina in Sousse just begs to be explored.

This lovely old town district is a warren of looping lanes, rimmed by whitewashed houses, and a shopping paradise with a tempting selection of ceramics, leatherwork, and metalwork on display.

Away from the stalls along the bustling souk streets, the quiet and rambling back alleys, dusted in white and blue, are a charming place to dive in and sample local life.

Sousse is one of Tunisia's top vacation destinations and is a very easygoing introduction to the country's charms, for first-time visitors. Likewise, the medina itself is small and easily navigable.

Some excellent restaurants serve up local Tunisian cuisine within the medina so, even if your accommodation is out on the beach, it is well worth your time coming into the medina for lunch or dinner. Make sure to sample the couscous at Café Seles, near the ramparts, and chill out with mint tea at Café Kasba.

This sprawling salt pan (most easily reached on a day trip from the desert town of Tozeur ) is a desolate and otherworldly scene that wows all who visit with its stark and brutal beauty.

The scenery here depends on the season you visit.

In summer, the moonscape surroundings of the Chott el Djerid are a storybook panorama brought to life, filled with shimmering mirages on the horizon and jigsaw puzzle pieces of blindingly white, cracked land under foot.

During winter, though, the basin partially fills with water, creating a bizarre lake amid the desolate surrounding desert plains.

A sightseeing trip here proves that nature produces much weirder landscapes than you could ever imagine.

Hammamet is all about the beach. This laid-back town on the Cap Bon Peninsula is Tunisia's top sun-and-sea resort, dedicated to easygoing beach vacations.

The town itself, with its pretty white buildings set beside a bright blue sea, has bundles of Mediterranean charm, which woos all who come to sunbathe on the soft, white sand.

For many who come here, off-the-beach pursuits total up to nothing more strenuous than gentle strolls in the medina (old town) and a spot of shopping in the restored old town souks.

It's a no stress kind of place that sums up the pleasures of Tunisia in one pretty package.

Easily reached on a day trip from both the Tunisian capital of Tunis and the northern beach town of Tabarka, Dougga is one of the most important Roman sites in North Africa.

The site is feted by travelers both for the well-preserved state of its main monuments and its tranquil rural setting amid rolling countryside.

It may seem far off the main routes today, but this expansive, hilltop site was once a thriving town, first settled in the 6th century BCE and today containing remnants leftover from all its major historical eras, from Berber and Punic to Roman and Byzantine.

The Roman-era ruins here are the grandest of Dougga's monuments.

Come here to admire the Roman Theater, Forum, and numerous temples with their pillars still raised in place, but don't forget to also explore the numerous bath complexes and remains of villas.

Although Tunisia's capital is mostly visited to view the two major tourist attractions of Carthage and the Bardo Museum, the medina district of central Tunis is well worth spending an extra night in the city for.

The winding alleys of this old town neighborhood, with their souks (shopping streets), mosques, and monuments, are fun to explore.

Don't miss visiting the rooftop of the Umayyad-era Olive Tree Mosque, the medina's most famous landmark, while wandering the medina, and make sure to seek out the clutch of small museums and restored dars (medina mansions) hidden within the narrow lanes. If you're short on time, Dar Hussein Palace is the top pick.

This is a great district to get stuck into Tunisian cuisine and some of the dars, and other historic buildings, within the medina have become atmospheric restaurants serving up traditional dishes.

Dine on signature couscous dishes amid the courtyard of an old caravanserai at Fondouk El Attarine. Or sample spicy, classic flavors with creative modern twists, in the salons inside Dar Slah .

Tozeur is a desert oasis town, sitting in the country's southeast.

For many visitors, it's a practical base for the tourist attractions of the Sahara with the chott el djerid salt pans, sand dune vistas, and the oases of Tamerza and Chebika all within day-tripping distance from town.

Tozeur town is an attraction within itself, though, rimmed by vast date palm gardens and home to an interesting medina district brimming with examples of the town's traditional decorative brick architecture.

Although it's a long journey across a stark desert plateau to get here (Tozeur is 211 kilometers west of the coastal city of Gabes), it's well worth it for the laid-back desert outpost atmosphere and the swag of Sahara attractions to explore on its doorstep.

This Berber village, with its troglodyte housing, was made famous when one of the dwellings (the Hotel Sidi Driss) was used as a location during the filming of the original Star Wars movie.

Matmata's traditional troglodyte-style housing is its main attraction. To escape the extreme heat of the area's arid plateau, locals dug deep into the ground, excavating a large circular pit below the surface, which would act as a courtyard, and then burrowed into the pit walls to hollow out cave rooms for their living spaces.

Today, some of the houses are open for visits and/or provide accommodation for travelers who want to experience a night of cave living.

Matmata is in south central Tunisia, 43 kilometers southeast of Gabes and 108 kilometers northwest of Medinine.

One of Tunisia's most recognizable monuments, the Ribat of Monastir was the earliest fortress built in Tunisia during the 8th-century Abbasid conquest, and one of the earliest in the entirety of North Africa.

This sea-fronting fortress is an exceptional example of medieval defensive architecture, with its main features of high crenelated walls, watchtowers, and internal courtyards.

For many visitors, the ribat is most famous today because of its use as a film location during the mid-20th century, including its starring role in Monty Python's cult classic Life of Brian .

As Monastir is only 23 kilometers southwest of Sousse, the ribat is easily visited on a day trip from the city.

The Roman ruins of Sufetula in the small town of Sbeitla are too out of the way to attract the tourist crowds, but it's well worth making the journey.

Known for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman Forum building, as well as numerous preserved Roman-era public buildings, including a triumphal arch, public bath, and temples, Sufetula is one of the best places to visit in Tunisia to imagine the Roman world.

Founded by the Roman Emperor Vespasian, Sufetula prospered due to its cultivation of olives for the empire. Later, during the Byzantine era, it also enjoyed further importance, becoming a bishopric.

Today the archaeological site sits right on the northern edge of modern Sbeitla town in central Tunisia. There are only a handful of accommodation choices in town, but it's possible to day trip to Sbeitla from Kairouan, 107 kilometers to the northwest.

More on Tunisia

An Amazing Road Trip Tunisia [10 Day Itinerary & Guide]

By: Author Corinne Vail

Posted on Published: 5 July 22  - Last updated: 9 January 24

Home » DIY Travel » Itineraries » An Amazing Road Trip Tunisia [10 Day Itinerary & Guide]

Are you looking to book a magical and amazing trip to North Africa? Tunisia has it all, from Roman ruins to scenes from “Star Wars”. Our Road Trip Tunisia Travel Guide has all you need to know!

Our last trip to North Africa was to Egypt , which we loved, and we couldn’t wait to do something like it again. When we first started researching our Tunisia road trip, we found Roman ruins instead of pyramids.

We were intrigued, until now all we had ever heard about Tunisia was the all-inclusive beach resorts. We had no idea how many wonderful things there were to do in this under-rated country. Hopefully this Tunisia Travel Guide will help you in your planning.

In This Article

We want you to have the best trip possible in Tunisia, a country we feel should definitely be on your list. You’ll learn:

• Our Tunisia Itinerary – 10 Days

FAQ on Tunisia

• Best Time to Go To Tunisia

Is Tunisia Safe?

Everyone wants to go to Morocco , but not many people think about going to Tunisia. I’m not exactly sure why I did, but it’s probably thanks to seeing photos on one of the blogs I follow. We found it to be similar to Morocco in many ways, but cheaper. At any rate, we had our first couple of nights booked in Tunis, and our rental ready to pick up at the airport. We couldn’t wait to get on the road.

Our Road Trip through Tunisia Map

Our Tunisia Itinerary – 10 days

• Tunis – 3 nights
• El Kef – 1 night 
• Sousse – 2 nights 
• Sfax – 2 nights
• Hammamet – 2 nights 
• Tunis – 2 nights

We started and finished our trip in Tunis , since that’s where the international airport is located. We usually get on the road right away, but this time we were waiting on our friends to meet up with us, and we arrived a full day and a half before they did.

We took advantage of that extra time and visited the Bardo National Museum , which is chock full of mosaics relocated from the many Roman ruins throughout the country. We were amazed at how many, how large, and how varied the artwork was. If there is one museum to go to you need to visit the Bardo.

Another great thing to do while in Tunis, either at the beginning or end of the trip, is exploring the Old Medina. The best way to do this is with a guide familiar with all of the maze like passageways and hard to find must-see sites. Our partners at Get Your Guide have the perfect four hour tour.

While still in Tunis, we had one full day to head north. We walked around the city of Bizerte, visited the ruins of Utica, and drove around the Ichkeul National Park. Ichkeul is known for its wetlands, and flocks of a variety of migratory birds. We did see some flamingoes while we were there.

Where to stay in Tunis: Dar El Jeld Hotel and Spa

At the end of the trip, we visited Carthage , the U.S. North Africa Military Cemetery, and even spent the afternoon in Sidi bou Said.

Listen to these two podcasts for some road trip tips: Types of Road Trips and Lots More Planning Tips .

One of our favorite stops, El Kef feels like it’s on the frontier. We certainly did not see any other tourists, or westerners on this part of the trip. The furthest they seem to go is Bulla Regia . We spent  a fun night in the one restaurant that we found open. There were no women, but it was packed, and we spent hours there drinking rosé wine and talking to the people closest to our table. 

Sousse is a pretty city on the coast. The medina here has a night market, and we discovered it as the sun was setting. People were sitting in the square, kids playing, parents gossiping. It felt relaxed and fun. The beaches here were some of the prettiest as well. 

Where to stay in Sousse: Dar Antonia

Monastir was probably our favorite spot of the whole trip. We had fun here touring the Ribat and the Habib Bourguiba Tomb. The best part was the family we met, as the people always make it or break it.

If I were to travel to Tunisia again, I would make Monastir my home base. The town was quiet. The beach was beautiful. We just loved the vibe of this town, and it’s close enough to both Sousse and Sfax that you could do a lot in just a few days.

Where to stay in Monastir: Dar Benti

We stayed in Sfax because it was our gateway to visiting Tatouine and El Jem. These two days were spent trundling through the Saharan towns, stopping and chatting with people along the way whenever we could.

We had a couple of experiences with olives , but otherwise the towns were so far apart that at first it looked like we’d have to wait to get back to the city before we had a meal, but we got lucky and found a man grilling outside in a small town.

We were the only customers, but it was a good lunch of lamb skewers making us all very happy.  Other than walking around the medina and the souk, we didn’t do much in Sfax. Suffice it to say, it’s a pretty modern city. 

Where to stay in Sfax: Borj Dhiafa

We spent a couple of nights here, because this is the place that people go. The beaches here are full of resorts, and all my friends who’d been to Tunisia ahead of me loved this town. It did have a quaint medina, very pretty and clean. It also had a lot of really nice hotels, which after a few days of being out in the countryside, we really welcomed.

Where to stay in Hammamet: Steigenberger Marhaba Thalasso Hammamet

Driving in Tunisia

Driving in Tunisia was much easier than we anticipated. The cities are crowded, and traffic could get a little chaotic, but overall the signage was good. Drivers were courteous, and we found free parking almost everywhere we went. 

A Few Tips for Driving in Tunisia

• Fill up whenever you see a gas station if you are out in the countryside. Gas stations were at most major intersections, but you don’t want to risk running out. 
• Don’t drive at night. There are lots of people and animals on the road and no street lights. It’s very difficult to see, even with your headlights on bright. It’s just better to be parked by the time the sun goes down.

Where is Tunisia Located?

Tunisia is in Northern Africa, sandwiched between Libya and Algeria, neither of which are very friendly to westerners. We came very close to both borders, but we didn’t even think of crossing them.  Tunisia is not very large, so you could pick only one of two places and do day trips from them.

However, we like trying out different cities. Each one had its own flavor, and we could easily have spent more time in Monastir, Sousse, and Le Kef. However, we were ready to get out of Sfax. It just didn’t set well with us, even though we really enjoyed the souk there.

What Languages Do They Use in Tunisia?

Arabic is the official language of Tunisia, but French is widely spoken and can be found on signs and instructions. Many people also speak English, especially in the major cities and all the coastal areas where there are beach resorts.

At no time did we have trouble with language. When ordering meals, if the restaurant did not have an English or French menu, we just pointed and that worked.

What is the Tunisian Currency?

The currency in Tunisia is the Dinar, which is roughly one-tenth of a dollar. Conversion was very simple. Meals, souvenirs, and souk items were all very cheap for travelers. The most expensive meal we ate was only $15 per person. 

Do You Need a Visa?

Most people traveling to Tunisia require no visa, and you can stay for 90 days. You can check the list here to find out if your country is one of the 97 approved visa-free countries. If not you can apply online for one.

What Vaccinations Do You Need?

The following are recommended vaccinations before traveling to Tunisia:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Rabies (if you will be around animals)

When is the Best Time to Go to Tunisia?

Tunisia has pretty nice weather all year round. It’s a very dry country, and either has mild temperatures or it just gets hot. The temperature rarely dips below 50 degrees, even in winter, so a jacket and layering will keep you warm.

It does, however, get quite windy on the coast so a hat to cover your ears would be essential. Temperatures range between 70-90 from June to October. The hottest months are July and August. Most people travel to Tunisia to take in the resorts on the beaches, and the best time to go to the beach would be summer and fall.

The water temperature doesn’t hit 70 degrees until June, but the nice thing is that it doesn’t dip below that until November. That means there are seven full months of premium beach weather, and depending on how you like it, the fringes wouldn’t be too bad either. 

Overall, Tunisia is very safe. In Monastir, we were offered to eat lunch with a family. Both in Sousse and outside of Sfax we were invited into homes. In El Kef and in Sousse, we were invited to tour bakeries. And near Bulla Regia, we were given an impromptu tour of an olive oil factory. None of this was planned. It was all serendipitous and left us feeling so happy and welcome in Tunisia.

When I was researching our trip, online it looked like there has been recent terrorism activity. However, there was only one, and that was in 2015. Nothing since. I personally wouldn’t worry about terrorist activity. Other cities like Paris, have had much more in the last few years. 

We only ran into one small problem in all of Tunisia, and it turned out almost funny in the long run. We were in Sfax, and a man started following us. He followed us all day long.

He didn’t interfere; he didn’t talk to us. He just followed. We got kind of fed up with it, so I started talking to him. He replied in quiet, short sentences, but never really engaged. We got the feeling he was trying to figure out where our hotel was so he could rob us. 

Now, to be fair, maybe he wasn’t up to no good, but it was a feeling we all shared. He was making us feel uncomfortable, very uncomfortable. I had asked him why he was following us, and he would just shrug, and look away guiltily.

So, we decided to wave goodbye to him and try and lose him. We could not. He kept following. It was just weird.

Finally, I went up to another man, and in my stilted French explained how this man was making us feel uncomfortable, because he was following us. I said, we are tired now and want to go back to our hotel.

The other man shooed him away in Arabic, in a scolding, not quite yelling Arabic. It was obvious that he was shaming him for making us feel bad. Once the other man had left, he came and apologized to us, and sent us on our way feeling a bit travel weary and a little disenchanted, but much safer.

That was it. Nothing bad happened. We don’t know if the man was a danger or not, but he didn’t make us feel good. I think if any one of us had been alone, we would have been more worried. 

That was the only thing that was ever even questionable during our visit. All the rest of the time, the Tunisians were some of the most hospitable people we’ve met. 

Tunisia is an under-rated destination. Its charms include busy souks and markets, beautiful tiles and architecture, delectable local foods, stunning beaches, and plenty of Roman ruins and museums to wander around. If you’re looking to go someplace a little different, go to Tunisia. You’re going to love it.

Author Bio: Corinne Vail is a travel photographer, food lover, and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 14 years. For many years she lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands teaching the children of the US. military. She’s visited over 90 countries, and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

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Saturday 23rd of September 2023

Glad you liked Tunisia so much. Spent a very happy year there in 1965-66 teaching English in boy's technical school. Learned to cook and to live simply there. We've been back twice. Tunisia will always be a special place for me. I like to make Tunisian couscous - savory with lamb, vegetables, including artichoke stems, and with harissa.

Corinne Vail

Sunday 24th of September 2023

Sounds yummy Eileen. Are you willing to share your recipe? I'm always looking at ways to incorporate harissa.

Thursday 22nd of September 2022

I am planning a Tunisia trip with my daughter and this is very helpful!

Sunday 25th of September 2022

Kathyrn, You are going to have a wonderful time. Enjoy! And thank you.

How to Spend 10 Days in Tunisia: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Compared to other North African destinations like Egypt and Morocco, Tunisia just isn’t on many people’s radars. Admittedly, it doesn’t have the incredible wealth of ancient wonders that Egypt does, nor does it boast the unique labyrinthine medinas of Morocco. What Tunisia does have, however, is more of a road-less-traveled vibe. 

Particularly in the capital of Tunis, the relative lack of tourism means you tend to get hassled less than you do in Cairo or Marrakesh. The lack of energy devoted to fending off wheeler-dealers means you have more time to just take in the sights and sounds around you, chomping down on a street snack while musing over the mix of medieval Islamic and French colonial architecture.

Of course, this underdeveloped tourism industry has its downsides, too. While I managed to pack a lot into my Tunisia itinerary, there were several things I wanted to do but ended up skipping just because the logistics were so complicated. I’ve heard amazing things, for example, about overnight tours into the desert from Douz , a tiny town known as Tunisia’s gateway to the Sahara. There are also the fascinating former Berber habitations in Ksar Ouled Soltane and Chenini, now best known as Star Wars filming locations. Due to the limitations of public transport, you risk wasting whole days getting from A to B – which I just wasn’t willing to do!

Even without these stop-offs, I still found plenty to entertain myself over 10 days in Tunisia.

A Quick Word on Language

Tunisian Arabic is spoken throughout the country, but there’s also a strong undercurrent of French in the major cities. Tunisia was a protectorate of France for 75 years, up until 1956, and the after-effects are still evident today. As a result, you’ll find that many locals will resort to French if they can’t get their point across in Arabic. English, on the other hand, is very rarely spoken.

If you’re like me and long ago forgot any Francais beyond ‘Bonjour,’ ‘Merci’ and ‘Du vin, s’il vous plait,’ you’ll probably find yourself mostly employing hand gestures – or, of course, the unreliable joys of Google Translate. Even if you find this slightly embarrassing, let me set your mind at ease: I don’t think I had a single interaction where a taxi driver, market stall proprietor, or street food vendor wasn’t up for a game of charades. In other words, the people are generally pretty chill!

Local Customs

Despite being one of the more progressive countries in the Arab sphere, Tunisia still has a few conservative rules. One of the most frustrating (if understandable) for a tourist is that non-Muslims are not allowed to enter any of the prayer rooms of mosques – and in some cases even the courtyards are off-limits. This means you’ll often have to resign yourself to gazing at the exterior beauty of these buildings while wondering what further wonders are hidden inside, behind the beautifully decorated walls. 

Like in Egypt, it is not illegal for visitors or locals to buy or consume alcohol, but it isn’t something you find on every street corner or at every restaurant. Mostly, the sale is limited to luxury hotels and supermarkets like Monoprix. Remember that Friday is the Islamic holy day, which means it’s the day when all the alcohol ‘caves’ roll down the shutters. If you were planning on trying some of the local vino, bear that in mind. 

Despite Friday being the holy day, it is still Sunday that acts as the day of rest. Souks are half shuttered, restaurants take the day off and generally, everything has reduced hours or doesn’t open at all. Plan accordingly!

Day One: Ruins of Empire

Most international flights to Tunisia arrive in the country’s capital, Tunis. This modern-day city is built atop the same land that once held the center of one of the ancient world’s greatest powers, the Carthaginian Empire. Thousands of years ago, Carthage flourished here, spreading its civilization and commerce along the North African coast, across Mediterranean islands, and into southern Spain.

Following a bitter war with the Romans for control of the Mediterranean, Carthage was eventually decimated. Legend has it that the victorious Roman general, Scipio Africanus, sowed salt into the earth so the city would never again provide fertile soil.

This fascinating history provides the background to one of Tunisia’s most famous attractions, the ruins of Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area includes not just partial remnants of the Carthaginian past, but also the Roman city that flourished a bit later. 

I’m going to be brutally honest up front: these ruins are far from the most impressive reminders of the ancient world you’ll ever see. Having said that, I would still recommend visiting if, one, you are a history nerd like me, and two, if you quite enjoy absorbing the atmosphere of a city by traversing its streets.

A ticket for the Carthage ruins gives you access to a variety of locations, including the Sanctuary of Tophet, covered with stelae and thought to have been the site of ritual sacrifice, and the District of Roman Villas, which provides some idea of ancient town structure. The Roman Theater of Carthage is largely a reconstruction, and really a minor entity if you compare it to the many existing, incredibly preserved Roman theaters elsewhere. 

Easily the most impressive of all the ruins in Tunis is the Baths on Antoninus, a sprawling complex that once housed palaestras (gyms), frigidariums (cold rooms), caldariums (hot rooms), and tepidariums (warm rooms). There’s nothing complete here, but there’s enough left to create much more of an atmosphere and a sense of the past.

The ruins of Carthage are fairly randomly ticketed. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of the fact that a patch of stone foundations in a bit of dried-out earth (some sort of craftsmen’s quarter, according to a plaque) was behind a barrier, while the half pillars, fallen walls, and rather well-preserved underground rotunda of the Basilica of Damus El Karita were completely free to enter, just off the highway.

Modern Carthage itself is a rather pretty suburb, containing not only the presidential palace but also a few residences that clearly belong to some of the country’s most important folks – at least judging from the military presence. Just wandering through the area, you’ll come across little patches of ancient stonework, stuck between costly villas and modern roads.

End your day with a little schlep up to Byrsa Hill for some lovely views over the city.

Where to Stay in Tunis

I stayed in a five-star gem. The Dar El Jeld Hotel and Spa is located in the Tunis Medina, inside a wonderfully renovated residence. Waking up to gorgeous views of the city from the rooftop terrace was one of the highlights of my trip – and the in-house hammam didn’t hurt either! There really isn’t a better place in the city to stay for comfort, convenience, and buckets of Tunisian charm.

Day Two: Sea, Sand, and Sidi Bou Said

White buildings with bright-blue doors and shutters, perched over coastal views. No, this isn’t the Greek isle of Santorini, it’s Sidi Bou Said, at once one of the prettiest and most touristy areas of Tunis. Expect to pay top dollar for almost everything here, from beverages to trinkets. 

The only exception is perhaps bambalouni, one of the most recognizable local foodie specialties. This giant donut is first deep friend, then not so much sprinkled as thoroughly dunked in sugary goodness. It’s not the healthiest snack, but it’s absolutely delicious and costs just a single dinar.

The start of the Sidi Bou Said area has a couple of stalls with people selling tat and trying to thrust unwanted ‘gifts’ upon you that they will then want money for. Politely wave them off and begin wandering the streets. 

Sidi Bou Said is a fairly small area, but charming, with characterful double doors and mashrabiya (projecting windows enclosed by carved wood latticework, allowing people to look out while preventing others from looking in). 

There are a couple of cafes here, too, expensive by local standards, but boasting some lovely views if you care to venture up to the terraces. The local tea, heavily sweetened with French-style mint sirop and often served with a handful of pine nuts (pignons) or almonds (amandes), is from my observation pricier than the coffee, not just here but everywhere in Tunisia.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss Ennejma Ezzahra Palace. Built by French painter and musicologist Rodolphe d’Erlanger as an homage to Arab-Islamic architecture. Of course, it’s nowhere near as historic or amazing as Granada’s Alhambra Palace, but it’s still an impressive work of art.

From the terrace in front of the main door, you can look down through blooming bougainvillea at a small harbor and compact beach. If you’re looking for some sun, sand, and possibly a bit of surfing, this was the cleanest of the beaches I visited in the Tunis metropolitan area. You will have to brave the 350 steps, however, which aren’t so bad on the way down, but on the way up… 

By way of comparison, the longest stretch of sandy seaside at La Marsa, which could be lovely, is rather sadly spoiled by lots of pieces of plastic trash, washing up with every wave. If you like a bit of property spotting, the area just a bit further inland from the coast contains some of the most ostentatious modern villas I saw in Tunis.

There are two other beachfronts to just quickly mention. Further west of La Marsa, Gammarth is the heart of the seaside resort town. During high season, the bars are buzzing and hawkers offer camel rides across the sands. 

Along the eastern side of Tunis, La Goulette is where cruise ships visiting the area dock. While it’s not a particularly attractive or interesting area, it does feature ramshackle seafood restaurants with sea views that are much frequented by locals, as well as an impressively domineering fort, built during the very brief stint Spain controlled the coast – if only it was open to the public!

If you want to experience the local metro service, the TGM (Tunis’ oldest line) runs all the way from La Marsa, past Sidi Bou Said and the Carthaginian Ruins, through La Goulette, and finishes up at the end of the downtown area. The section along La Goulette is particularly scenic where it crosses the Lake of Tunis.

It is perfectly possible to combine the Carthaginian ruins and Sidi Bou Said into one day, but it will be a lot to cover, especially if you walk between the sites rather than hiring a driver or taking a series of taxis. On the other hand, if your capacity for ruins is fairly small, it’s not unrealistic to cram it all in.

Day Three: Downtown Tunis

Right in the center of town is where you’ll find more of the real flavor of the Tunisian capital. 

I started off in the medina, whose enticing winding streets are filled with numerous cafes, souks, and stalls selling, well, pretty much everything. This hive of activity all grew up around the anchor of the Ez-Zitouna Mosque (literally Mosque of the Olive), originally built in the 7th century but completely reconstructed in the 9th. Today, its (much newer) minaret looms over the medina, calling folk to prayer. Entry, however, is forbidden to non-Muslims, so you’ll have to head to the terrace of the Cafe Panorama if you want a glimpse inside.

Make sure you don’t forget to try some Tunisian specialties while you’re in the medina. A few alleyways house small eateries where you can grab one of the most popular foods with locals: baguette farcie, a half-French, half-Arabic invention that consists of flatbread stuffed with cheese, mixed veg, and either chicken or jambon, before being baked. It’s heaven!

The Tunisians seem to love their filled breads, because two of the other most common foods I found everywhere were variations on a similar theme. The makloub is essentially folded-over flatbread cradling similar fillings to the baguette farcie (you can ask for it to be spiced up with some harissa), while fricassee is a deep-fried roll containing olives, boiled eggs, canned tuna, and potatoes. Given the penchant for baked bread and ubiquity of stone ovens, it’s not surprising to also see pizza being sold at many stands.

Once a gate to the medina and now a monument marking the meeting place of Islamic and French Tunis, Bab Al Bahr is set in a square lined by a couple of cafes where you can stop for a coffee boost and a bit of people watching. 

That done, it’s time to enter the former French quarter. Buildings here bear the hallmark of European architecture, with grand mansion blocks adorned with Belle Epoque excess. The most notable structure is the Cathedral of Saint Vincent de Paul. Completed in 1897, it’s a hodgepodge of architectural styles – the designer clearly just picked his favorite ideas and smushed them together – with a sculptured figure jutting prominently out from the façade to embrace the sky.

South of this, the Municipal Market is a paradise of fresh produce. The main hall features all manner of fruit and vegetables, while smaller sections branching off contain areas dedicated to fresh seafood (including fish and octopus), meat and chicken, and local cheeses and pickles. This area is complemented by the spice market, just a few steps away, filled with sacks of colorful powders. 

This will probably put you in the mood for some dinner. Finish your day with a meal at Fondouk Al Attarine, which serves up all the classics of Tunisian dining inside a former caravanserai. The setting is absolutely gorgeous: a glass-enclosed courtyard ensconced in foliage. Try the brik (a savory pastry filled with a runny boiled egg, meat, potatoes, and veg), followed by the fish couscous.

Disappointingly, the Bardo Museum, said to contain one of the best collections of ancient mosaics anywhere in the world, was closed when I visited – and has been closed ever since the onset of Covid. Although the Tunisian government has said it’s undergoing renovation, there’s also no word on when it will reopen. If you are luckier than me and visit Tunisia when it has finally begun welcoming people back, the Tunisians we spoke to were full of praise.

Day Four: Westward, Ho!

Now, you’ve explored what Tunis has to offer, it’s time to venture out of the capital and into other territories.

To the west are a pair of former Roman settlements that are located not far from one another. By public transport, they’re not the easiest places to reach, so it might be worth investing in a tour as I did. Otherwise, you’ll have to rely on a combo of bus and taxi.

Dougga is another of Tunisia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For those of a romantic temperament, there’s plenty of scope for gazing misty-eyed at the extensive ruins and imagining the buzzing metropolis that once would have existed. Amidst the remnants of temples, bathhouses, and public latrines are a couple of standouts: the 19-tier restored theater, which could once hold 3,500 people, and the Capitol, which retains its grand portico intact.

While Dougga was a settlement long before the Romans elbowed their way in, there are precious few buildings to attest to that fact. An exception is the Libyco-Punic Mausoleum, a solid block of tiered stone adorned with griffins. It is one of just a handful of examples of Royal Numidian architecture that can still be seen today anywhere in the world.

Just over an hour’s drive from Dougga is Bulla Regia. Just like Dougga, Bulla Regia has a history of Berber, Punic, Numidian, and Roman habitation. While the ruins of the Memmian Baths are impressive, what makes this site unique is its belowground halls, built around open courtyards. These subterranean sections of Roman villas were where the rich retreated during the hot summer months. Thanks to their location, they have been fantastically preserved. 

The most amazing features are the almost perfect mosaics, many of which have been left in place (others have been removed from the Bardo Museum). These artworks give their name to most of the houses here, including the House of Amphitrite, which contains an imperious-looking nude woman (perhaps Amphitrite, the wife of Neptune) attended by crab-like centaurs and dolphin-bestriding cupids.

Return to Tunis for a hearty helping of ojja, a hearty tomato-based stew with eggs, peppers, and harissa that can be leveled up with some slices of merguez (a kind of spicy sausage). 

Day Five: Second-Best Sousse 

While Tunis is by far the most modern of Tunisia’s cities, you wouldn’t be doing the country full justice by just staying in the capital for your whole trip. Hop on one of the two morning trains heading to Sousse and expand your horizons southward. The trip takes just under 2.5 hours.

It is possible to do a day trip tour from Tunis that manages to squeeze in Sousse alongside nearby El Jem and Kairouan all at once. However, it’s a lot of driving for very little time in the towns. Instead, I recommend spreading out your trip so you don’t have to feel like you’re rushing the entire time.

Tunisia’s third-largest city, Sousse is a good place to base yourself for exploring the surrounding region. It was actually an earlier Phoenician colony than Carthage known as Hadrumetum, though it was later superseded in influence and power. Today, Sousse shares the distinction with Tunis of having its medina awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

There are some really interesting comparisons to be made between the medinas of Tunis and Sousse. While both have a similar array of stalls, Sousse’s sellers are much more insistent, perhaps because the medina is smaller and more wholly geared towards tourism – in Tunis, the medina seems to have more alleyways that are just for locals shopping for socks, underwear and tea kettles.

On the other hand, Sousse’s medina still has most of its encircling defensive structures intact, with the sandy-colored walls firmly delineating the area from the rest of the city. The imposing kasbah (fortress) now plays host to the Sousse Archaeological Museum, the best place to see recovered Roman mosaics (at least until the Bardo reopens).

The oldest remaining part of Sousse’s medina is the ribat, a compact, square fortification. I puffed my way to the top of the tower via a narrow spiral staircase and was rewarded with panoramic views over the rest of the medina. 

Opposite the ribat is the city’s preeminent religious edifice, the Great Mosque of Sousse, which looks more like another defensive structure than a mosque, particularly as it lacks a minaret and the beautiful decorative geometric patterns you would usually associate with an Islamic place of worship. Non-Muslims can go no further than the courtyard, but you can peep into the prayer hall from the doorway. 

The medina can be chaotic, but if you want some rest and relaxation, Sousse is home to a strip of coastline that features the soft, sandy Bou Jaafar Beach. Grab a beer or some wine from the nearby MG Magasin General and kick your feet up for an hour or two. 

Where to Stay in Sousse

Dar Lekbira Boutique Hotel was only opened at the tail end of last year. As you would expect from a brand-new property, everything is shiny and clean. The building itself has been nicely renovated, though the furnishings tend towards the louder side of the spectrum. But hey, I’m not opposed to a little bling-bling! 

Day Six: Kairouan

Just to the west of Sousse, Kairouan was founded in 670 CE as a military post by a general of the Rashidun Caliphate. The Great Mosque, which is the city’s jewel, was first constructed at this time, before being rebuilt in 836 by the Aghlabid dynasty, the same powerful family who gave Sousse its Great Mosque.

While the exterior of Kairouan’s mosque appears just as forbidding and unadorned as Sousse’s, the inside is another story. Marble and porphyry columns line the hypostyle that leads to the prayer hall, which has two beautiful wooden doors barring entry to non-believers (like other mosques in Tunisia, no non-Muslims allowed). The boxy minaret, on the other hand, definitely looks like something out of a fortress.

A short walk away and just a few decades younger, the Mosque of the Three Doors may not look like much, but it is thought to be the oldest example of a mosque with a sculpted façade still in existence anywhere in the world. An interesting historical tidbit maybe, but it’s not as impressive as the Mosque Sidi Sahbi (Mosque of the Barber), which exhibits some beautiful tilework and stucco design in the publicly accessible courtyard. 

Kairouan is pretty easy to reach from Sousse if you don’t mind an adventure on a lounge . These minivan taxis are a cheap way to traverse the country where train and bus lines fail. It’s not an easy system to work out alone, but if you ask your hotel to help you, you shouldn’t have any problems getting an idea of the schedule.

Day Seven: A Jem of a City

El Jem is mainly famous for one thing: its enormous amphitheatre, which was possibly only rivalled by Rome’s Colosseum when it was whole. Built in the 3rd century CE, it was able to hold 35,000 people.

Part of the building has since crumbled away, but there’s still most of this impressive ruin left to explore. Clamber up through the tiered seating to feel the full size of the space, then head down to the underground to see where the behind-the-scenes action happened.

The ticket to the amphitheater also includes access to the nearby museum, which has its own collection of beautiful mosaics, salvaged from various Roman sites. 

Getting to the city is pretty easy from Sousse. Just hop on one of the trains heading towards Sfax. The trip takes just over an hour. Since there’s not much else to see in El Jem and the train schedules are heavily skewed towards pre-noon travel, I recommend visiting the amphitheater in the morning, before returning to Sousse for lunch.

After lunch, you can explore the area around Monastir. While technically a separate city, Monastir is connected to Sousse by the Sahel Metro, which means it takes just half an hour to get from one downtown to the other.

Monastir is a beach resort area with several narrow strips of sandy stretches abutting Mediterranean waters. Despite being a little too closely hemmed in by the nearby road, Qaraiya Beach is still a very scenic location to kick off your shoes and go for a paddle, particularly because it’s overlooked by the impressive remains of the city’s ribat. This fortress is more striking than the one in Sousse and boasts a watchtower that you can climb for great views over the surrounding area.

If you’ve got a little spare time on your hands, pay a 20-minute visit to the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba. Just a short walk from the ribat, it’s a dazzling monument to the father of Tunisian independence. When the sky is cloudless, the golden central dome and gold-tipped minarets glitter cheerfully in the sun. Habib Bourguiba is a beloved figure in Tunisia not just because he was a tireless agitator against colonial rule or because he was elected as the country’s first president, but also because of his many social reforms, promoting universal education and women’s rights. It’s worth going just to pay homage to the man and his ideals!

Return to Sousse for your final night.

Day Eight: Lazy Days

After several madcap days of touring a country, it’s always nice to take a day or two just to kick back and relax.

Hammamet is Tunisia’s original resort town. A former fishing village, it transformed over the course of the 20th century to become a destination for glamorous holidays, with film star Sophie Loren and fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli both once owning houses here.

Today, there are a number of five-star resorts lining the sandy shores, including many with private beaches that are adults only. The waters lapping the coast are deliciously warm, though some parts of the beach are definitely better tended than others. Pick your spot wisely and while away the day with a bit of sun worship.

Where to Stay in Hammamet

If you’re going to stay in a hive of beach resorts, you may as well throw yourself fully into the experience. The Royal Azur Thalasso has several outdoor swimming pools, easy access to a private beach, and lots of dining options, from al fresco terraces to the ridiculously overdone indoor restaurant. I rarely go for 5-star excess over characterful boutiques, but when I do, this is the kind of over-the-top-ness I enjoy.

Day Nine: Beside the Beach

If you want to break up your beach time with some cultural curiosities, Hammamet is home to a small medina that is filled with bright-white houses and dominated by the sandy-colored 13th-century kasbah. To be honest though, the vibe is very much a Disneyland version of Tunisia, especially after having visited much more interesting medinas elsewhere in the country.

Which reminds me, you can actually go to what is purported to be North Africa’s oldest amusement park along this slice of coast, dubbed Carthage Land (of course). If you’re traveling with kids, bumper cars, log flumes and roller coasters might be a welcome addition to your trip. 

Day Ten: Tunis Revisited

Catch the train from Hammamet back to Tunis. There are infrequent direct trains into the city center, but you may also have to change at the suburban railway town of Borj Cedria. Either way, the journey should take you between 1.5 and 2 hours.

If you’ve got a little time before your flight, head back into the medina for any of the local specialties you didn’t manage to try the first time around. One for the vegetarians, kafteji is essentially a mix of fried vegetables (eggplants, bell peppers, potatoes, tomatoes, zucchinis) that are often served as a side, though I prefer it stuffed in whatever flatbread the seller has got handy!

And That’s How to Spend 10 Days in Tunisia!

Tunisia may not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of North Africa, but it makes for an interesting alternative to the more commonly visited countries of Egypt and Morocco . With Roman ruins, sandy beaches, and lots and lots of stuffed-bread specialties, Tunisia has plenty to recommend itself to visitors looking to take the road less traveled.

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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10 of the Top Things to Do in Tunisia, North Africa

Tunisia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Africa , and for good reason. It offers spectacular beaches for those in need of relaxation, and several diverse cities with ample opportunities for shopping and dining. Most importantly, though, Tunisia is a country steeped in history. Its UNESCO-protected archaeological sites provide an insight into periods of Roman, Arab and European rule and the treasures left behind by each civilization. Here are 10 of the top things to do in Tunisia. 

Note: At the time of writing, travel warnings had been issued for parts of Tunisia affected by terrorism and political instability. Make sure to check for the latest updates before booking your vacation. 

Soak Up the Atmosphere in Tunis

The capital of Tunis is the natural place to start your Tunisian adventure. Its origins pre-date the Romans, and over the centuries the city has developed its own unique blend of Arabic, African and European culture. In the French Ville Nouveau area, colonial buildings flank palm-lined avenues and sidewalk cafés serve artisan coffee and pastries. In the medina, authentic souks provide the chance to barter for Arabic crafts and fabrics. As the second-largest museum on the African continent, the Bardo Museum is a particular highlight. Housed in a 19th-century palace, it is a veritable treasure trove of Tunisian history populated by mosaics, sarcophagi and sculptures unearthed from ancient sites located across the country. 

Live Like a Gladiator in El Djem

Further south, the town of El Djem gives visitors the opportunity to relive the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Today’s settlement grew up around the ruins of the Roman city of Thysdrus, once one of the most prosperous settlements in North Africa. Much of the original architecture is now lost—with the exception of the city’s mighty amphitheater . Built to house gladiator shows and chariot races, the amphitheater held 35,000 spectators and was one of the largest in the Empire. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the amphitheater is more intact than the Coliseum in Rome, with two thirds of its triple-arcaded outer walls still standing. Visitors can also see the underground passages and cells that once held the arena’s human and animal combatants.

Discover the Grand Erg Oriental Dunes

Tunisia’s natural beauty is just as impressive as its storied past. Those wishing to experience the rugged splendor of the Sahara Desert should head for Grand Erg Oriental , a vast dune sea that stretches for approximately 370 miles/600 kilometers between Algeria and Tunisia. The region can be explored on camelback or via a 4x4 safari, with trips lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days. Camping trips are especially rewarding, giving visitors the chance to marvel at unspoiled starscapes and to witness the magnificent colors of sunrise and sunset in the desert. Grand Erg Oriental is famous for its rolling dunes, but in between the endless peaks and valleys of sand one can also find verdant oases, rocky mountains and unexpected wildlife.

Explore Islamic History in Kairouan

The centre of Islamic history in Tunisia is Kairouan , a city in the country’s northern inland region. Founded in 670 AD, Kairouan became the principal holy city of the Maghreb region under the Aghlabid dynasty in the 9th century. Today, it is the fourth holiest city of the Muslim faith, and recognized by UNESCO as a crucial stronghold of Arabo-Muslim culture. For visitors, the most rewarding area of Kairouan is the medina. Here, ancient ramparts protect a veritable maze of narrow, winding streets lined with painted houses and bustling souks. Every now and then, the alleyways lead to incredible Islamic monuments ranging from stucco and mosaic-adorned tombs to ornate mosques, the most famous of which is the 7th-century Great Mosque .

Relax by the Sea in Sidi Bou Said

Located just 12 miles/20 kilometers north of Tunis, the seaside town of Sidi Bou Said was founded to accommodate pilgrims paying homage to the nearby tomb of a Muslim saint. Today, the town is a popular getaway destination for visitors to the capital, offering the chance to unwind overlooking beautiful views of the Gulf of Tunis. Sidi Bou Said is famous for its Greek-style white buildings and distinctive blue-painted doors and trellises. This out-of-place architecture was inspired by Baron Rodolphe d’Erlanger, a French painter and musicologist who settled in Sidi Bou Said in the early 1900s and decorated his palace in the trendsetting white-and-blue style. Visitors can explore the Baron’s magnificent residence before exploring the quaint old town. 

Visit the Ancient City of Carthage

Now a suburb of Tunis, the ancient city of Carthage was founded in the 9th century BC. It was the capital of the Carthaginian civilization, which posed the only real threat to the early Roman Empire, launching a series of offensives against Rome itself between 264 BC and 146 BC. The last of the Punic Wars saw the destruction of Carthage, which was later rebuilt by the Romans. Although it is not Tunisia’s most impressive archaeological site, it is certainly the most famous. A wander through the suburb reveals the remains of Carthage’s amphitheater, circus, cemeteries and Punic ports, as well as the foundations of the city’s ancient residential quarter. The Baths of Antoninus Pius are particularly famous as the largest public baths outside of Rome.

Admire Mosaics in Bulla Regia

For a more intact insight into Roman life in North Africa, make your way to Bulla Regia , an archaeological site located near the city of Jendouba in the northwest of the country. Under Roman rule, the region flourished because of its ability to produce grain, grapes and olives. This prosperity is evident in the villas at Bulla Regia, which were built underground as a defense against the heat. As a result, their interiors are so well preserved that visitors can walk through the rooms as their owners might once have done and see original artifacts in situ. These include elaborate floor mosaics, which are thought to be amongst the most impressive in North Africa. The haloed sea goddess depicted in the House of Amphitrite is a particular highlight of this incredible site.

Enjoy Djerba's Island Vibes

For a completely different atmosphere, exchange the history of the mainland for the laid-back vibes of Djerba Island . Surrounded by the Gulf of Gabès, Djerba is the largest island in North Africa. Its multicultural residents are famously friendly, and the island itself is a kaleidoscope of whitewashed buildings, sandy beaches and colorful seafood restaurants. Some visitors spend their time relaxing in luxury hotels along the Zone Touristique beachfront, while others venture into the Houmt Souk medina in search of authentic souvenirs. Guellala village is famous for its pottery, an industry that dates back to Roman times. Animal lovers can come face-to-face with over 400 Nile crocodiles at Djerba Explore , or admire wild flamingos on the Ras Rmel peninsula.

Go Birdwatching in Ichkeul National Park

Tunisia’s most rewarding wildlife experience, however, is to be found at Ichkeul National Park in the far north of the country. Comprising mountains, wetlands and the vast expanse of Lake Ichkeul, the park is UNESCO-protected and renowned for its hiking and birdwatching opportunities. The lake is the last great freshwater lake in a chain that once stretched across North Africa, and as such provides a vital stopping off point for migratory birds en route from Europe and Asia to sub-Saharan Africa. In season, more than 300,000 ducks, geese and coots can be spotted on the lake during a single day, and great flocks of storks and flamingo are common. In addition, the national park also provides a sanctuary for more than 200 animal species and 500 plant species.

Feel the Force in Matmata

Despite its allegedly ancient origins, the troglodyte settlement of Matmata was virtually unknown to the outside world until 1967, when extreme floods forced its people to surface from their underground homes. Now, the settlement is a famous destination for Star Wars fans , as the village and its surrounds were used to film scenes from the planet Tatooine. In particular, underground Hotel Sidi Driss acted as Luke Skywalker’s home in the 1977 film Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope ; and appeared again in the 2002 sequel Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones . Like all troglodyte homes, it comprises a series of artificial caves cut into the earth around a central pit and connected by subterranean tunnels. It has 20 rooms and a restaurant on-site.

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Africa , TUNISIA

Best time to visit tunisia + month by month breakdown.

It’s quite simple, choosing the best time to visit Tunisia is absolutely key in making sure you have the best trip possible here!

Located in north Africa, Tunisia is a diverse country and from the mountains in the north, to the beaches of the east and the deserts of the south, the climate varies wildly across all these varied geographical landscapes, as well as across the 12 months of the year.

So read on to discover when the best time to visit Tunisia is depending on exactly when you want to travel there and how you want to spend your time when you do…

Related Posts

• Perfect 10 Day Tunisia Itinerary
• Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia: Complete Travel Guide
• Egypt vs Tunisia: Which is Better for Travel?

My trip to Tunisia was sponsored by the Authentic Tunisia campaign but, as always, all views are my own.

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Overall Best Time to Visit Tunisia

Overall, the best time to visit Tunisia is during the country’s spring or autumn seasons.

This includes the months of April, May and June, plus September.

If you plan to visit several different parts of Tunisia – think the northern mountains, the eastern coast and the southern desert areas – these months provide the best all round balance of blue sky days and good temperatures.

Giving the optimal balance for sightseeing and sunbathing, visiting during these months will help ensure you aren’t sweltering in some seriously scorching heat and, equally, that your chances of getting a lot of rainy and cloudy days are minimal.

These are also the best months to visit Tunisia if you’re simply seeking some sun and forgetting the sightseeing.

You might be tempted to hit up this country during the hottest, summer months of the year if you want to catch some rays, but be warned, things getting seriously hot and uncomfortable at this time of year, so it may in fact be too hot to go out much by the pool or on the beach at all!

Sticking to the spring and autumn months (especially May, June and September) is therefore definitely the best option for those who simply want to sunbathe – the sea is also a lovely temperature at these times of year, especially in September when it’s had the whole summer to heat up!

Tunisia Climate

At this point, it’s probably worth taking a minute to talk about Tunisia’s climate to help you better understand when best to travel here.

Situated in north Africa, Tunisia lies on the edge of the southern Mediterranean sea.

Its capital is just over 350km from Italy’s southern island of Sicily and therefore, despite being in the African continent, Tunisia’s weather patterns most closely resemble those of southern Europe i.e. mild springs and autumns along with scorching hot summers.

At least in the north and the east of the country this is the case!

The south of Tunisia takes in large swathes of the Sahara and the climate is pretty different in these sandy southern parts.

Here in the desert, you can expect minimal rainfall and warm daytime temperatures most of the year.

That said, as is common with desert climates, temperatures can drop drastically during the night.

This is especially true during Tunisia’s winter season, which stretches from December to February, when temperatures in the southern desert regions plummet.

Sandstorms in the desert are also most common at this time of year.

Tunisia’s Hottest, Coldest and Wettest Months

Across the country, the hottest months of the year in Tunisia are July and August, when daytime temperatures regularly exceed 30 degrees celsuis.

Known as the summer season, July and August also boast the lowest rainfall when, very often, there’s just 1mm of precipitation on average across Tunisia.

Conversely, January is the coldest month of the year here, when winter descends and temperatures struggle around 10 degrees celsuis.

While you may also expect winter to be the wettest time in Tunisia as well as the coldest, it’s actually October and November that see the highest rainfall in this country – up to 30mm – so don’t forget to factor this in, particularly if you’re considering a half term break!

When to Visit Tunisia by Month

As discussed this is the coldest month across Tunisia.

The only region boasting mild temperatures at this time is the desert, but even here nights can be seriously cold and sandstorms a real risk – pack accordingly.

Temperatures warm slightly, but this is still winter in Tunisia, so short days and cold evenings are to be expected!

Spring is arriving, but sea temperatures remain chilly!

Wildflowers begin to bloom in the north, but days can still be fresh, wet and cloudy in the north.

The desert is mild and there’s few crowds around – making it a good time to enjoy those Star Wars sites without the crowds!

The first month I recommend as the best to visit Tunisia, temperatures are now creeping above 25 degrees at the coast.

Rainfall can still be high, but Tunisia can be a great place to grab some Easter holiday warmth as the days draw out.

Just remember to check when the holy month of Ramadan (and the celebration that marks it end – Eid al-Fitr ) falls. As a majority Muslim country, many Tunisians observe Ramadan and celebrate Eid, which means opening hours and transport connections can be limited during this time.

A great month to visit Tunisia and the one I enjoyed here, especially as the days are long and light!

May can still bring some cloudy and potentially wet days in the mountains, but the coast is warm and sunny, and sea temperatures are good.

Sightseeing is also perfect with comfortable, blue skies days and the desert is still not too hot to be enjoyable.

Another fantastic month for visiting Tunisia, especially if you’re seeking some sun, as the mercury climbs to the high 20s.

The desert is still just about pleasant for visiting still and, in the north, it’s still totally possible to enjoy outdoor active pursuits and sightseeing days in reasonable comfort – just pack your sunscreen and a sun hat!

One of the hottest months in the country – the desert is almost unbearably warm at this time and even on the coast it’s really too hot to sunbathe with temperatures above 30 degrees celsius most days.

Rainfall is low, but walking around ancient towns and ruins may be pretty tough going – drink lots of water if you’re attempting it and stay out of the midday sun.

Like July – super hot and dry everywhere.

Steer clear of the south and the desert!

Another top month for visiting Tunisia; the temperatures are still good (high 20 degrees celsius), the days still long and the sea wonderfully warm.

Local summer crowds have dissipated at the main holidays spots, meaning you can pick up some great deals at the coast.

Sightseeing and active adventures are totally possible during this month and the desert has cooled slightly!

Rainfall spikes hugely during this month, which is why I don’t recommend visiting Tunisia at this time even if the temperatures are still warm.

Unless you’re going to the desert that is, in which case, this is a great month to do so!

It’s also harvest season for dates and olives in the south of the country – another good reason to visit this part of Tunisia at this time!

Day light hours are rapidly reducing and rainfall remains high.

Temperatures also drop, so only really a good month for those desert trips!

A cool month, with temperatures hanging around in the mid-teens.

Tunisia doesn’t get the Christmas crowds (it’s a Muslim majority country for 1!) and the rains have reduced

If you want to escape the festive season for somewhere slightly warmer therefore, Tunisia is calling you!

And there you have it, my guide to the best time to visit Tunisia.

Have anymore questions about when, where and how to travel this country?

Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the comments box below…

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Top Travel Tips for Tunisia

How to Get to Tunisia?

Flights to the country’s main international airport, Tunis-Carthage, arrive from cities across Europe and beyond.

As always, I use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals.

The airport is just a short drive from the capital Tunis and the glorious town of Sidi Bou Said, making it the perfect arrival and departure point for north Tunisia itineraries.

How to Get Around?

Trains, domestic flights and buses all allow you get around Tunisia.

However, as I recommend you visit some off the beaten track spots, hiring a car is really the best way to travel the county.

Check out these great Tunisia rental car deals .

Top Tunisia Tours

Alternatively, if you’d rather not travel Tunisia independently, these top Tunisia tours are another great way to experience an adventure here.

5 Key Packing Items

Located in North Africa, Tunisia is a diverse country boasting coast, mountains, deserts and ancient cities.

Make sure you’re prepared with these top 5 packing items…

Learn what else you should take in this complete Tunisia packing list ,

Travel Insurance for Tunisia

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Travel Money in Tunisia

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card in Tunisia… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay. Get yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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My Holiday to Tunisia – The Good, the Bad and the Ugly!

Tunisia was booked on a whim – it was North Africa and it was cheap. In all honesty, I didn’t know a great deal about Tunisia before I went. I had travelled to Morocco before and so had some awareness of North African culture and the Islamic religion. But for £300 all-inclusive in March, you couldn’t go wrong, right? Well, I like to wear my heart on my sleeve – I always let you know my honest opinions about a place and today I’m giving the lowdown on my holiday to Tunisia – the Good, the Bad and the Ugly!

Disclosure : templeseeker.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.co.uk, Get your Guide and other affiliated sites. Affiliate links may be used in this article on  ‘my holiday to Tunisia’ , but they do not impact on the price that you pay and they do help me to get this information to you for free.

I do usually travel independently. But hey, everyone needs a package holiday from time to time ! The capital of Tunisia – Tunis – is in the North of the country, but most tourist resorts are along the coast Popular tourist destinations in Tunisia include Hammamet, Sousse and Monastir.

I actually took my mom for a mini-break and some culture. We stayed at the Belessaire and Thelasso resort in Hammamet . Tunisia is an amazing place full of religious and historical places of interest including some of the best Roman Ruins outside of Italy. However, there are a few things that you will need to be aware of.

My Holiday to Tunisia – The Good!

Tunisia is a popular holiday destination for Brits – it’s a short flight time, excellent value for money and rich in culture. If you are heading to Tunisia, don’t miss Carthage, El Djem amphitheatre and the Great Mosque of Kairouan. Also make sure that you allow some time for Tunis, the capital city.

Excellent Value for Money

Tunisia is a very cheap destination making a holiday to Tunisia a cost effective choice for families or those on a tight budget. You can go from UK to Hammamet (the airport is Enfidna) and Sousse for around £300-£400 all inclusive per person in low season with companies like Thomas Cook and TUI. Easyjet offer flights to Enfidna from Bristol, London Gatwick, London Luton and Manchester. The currency in Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar and there are roughly 4 Dinars to the £1.

Short Flight Time from UK

Tunisia is easy to get to from the UK and makes for a culturally rich holiday without the need for a long haul flight. You can fly direct to Sousse from London (approximately 3 hours). We flew direct to Hammamet from Birmingham International with Thomas Cook. It’s a North African destination but not too much further than Malta!

Beaches of Hammamet

The beaches of Hammamet were pristine and clean, making it a great option for families and couples looking for a relaxing beach holiday. I’ve also heard good things about the beaches in Djerba and Sousse. The best thing about them now – they are NOT crowded. Sadly, this may relate to the series of terror attacks that Tunisia doesn’t seem to have recovered from in the tourism industry (more on the effects of this later in the blog).

Exploring the Tunisian Kasbah’s

I LOVED exploring Tunisian Kasbah’s – the best thing about them surprisingly was the doors! Colourful and beautifully decorated doors around every corner. There are amazing Kasbah’s in most Tunisian cities, the most touristy being Hammamet Kasbah , Sousse and Monastir. I found it best to go very early in the mornings to get good photos and avoid the shop touts who are certainly out in full form by midday!

Photography copyright: All the images in this blog are original photography by Amy Green and are property of @templeseeker (unless otherwise stated). Please do not use these without permission or without giving credit. If you would like to use any of these images please email: [email protected] for permission. 

Roman Ruins of Carthage

One of the most amazing and surprising aspects of my holiday to Tunisia was the Roman ruins . I’ve heard of Carthage and yet it was more spectacular in real life than I had anticipated. The most astonishing Roman Site of Carthage is Antoninus baths – one of the three largest baths built by the Roman Empire. Carthage is near the capital of Tunis and is doable as a day trip from Hammamet (and Sousse or Monastir if you do an early morning!)

El Djem Roman Amphitheatre

But nothing could have prepared me for El Djem Roman Amphitheatre . It’s the largest colosseum outside of Rome and the best preserved in the world. We got to go underground and could imagine the animals in the cages and the blood dripping from the Gladiator battles! El Djem Roman amphitheatre is often combined with the Kairouan Great Mosque as a day trip running from Sousse, Hammamet and Monastir.

Kairouan Great Mosque

Then there’s the Mosques – if you like Mosques and Arabic Architecture, Tunisia will certainly not disappoint. One of the most amazing things I saw in Tunisia was the Kairouan Great Mosque , the oldest Mosque in North Africa. It’s commonly regarded to be the fourth most important Mosque in Islam after Mecca, Mdina and Jerusalem.

My Holiday to Tunisia – The Bad

Before I launch into the bad and the ugly aspects of my Holiday to Tunisia, let me just say this…my aim is not to put you off going, but simply for you to be aware of the challenges and the risks. It’s not my favourite country in the world, but I’m certainly glad that I went and I would also definitely return.

Hotel Dining

Sadly, I have to forewarn you about Tunisian hotel dining. If you have booked a 5 star hotel, this will NOT be 5 Stars according to Western standards! Ours was supposed to be 4* and was far from it. Tap water was used to mix the juice (more on that later ?) and quite often the milk and breakfast and for tea had gone off!

Fake Customer Service

Good customer service can, of course, make or break your holiday. The problem with the customer service in Tunisia was that it honestly all felt rather fake. Going down to dinner would almost be an argument between waiters over who would seat us. Not because they wanted to look after us, but because they wanted tips.

Sadly, the country’s tourist industry took a massive downturn after the terror attacks in 2015 at Port El Kantoui just North of Sousse. It’s unfortunate that the Tunisian tourist industry has reacted with what can often be described as ‘money grabbing’ techniques. Many are leaving hand to mouth and have been hit hard by the recession, struggling to make ends meet.

They haven’t clocked on to the fact that they are more likely to get tips if they genuinely help and genuinely give excellent service. Fighting to get you to their table only to ignore you once seated is unfortunately what you may experience in some Tunisian hotels and restaurants.

Tout Scams – I’m a Waiter at Your Hotel – NOT!

Touts seem to pray on tourists especially near the souks and Kasbahs of tourist destinations. The line is always ‘oh, do you remember me, I’m a waiter from your hotel!’ which of course is not true. They hope that you will pretend to remember or go along with it to strike up a conversation which will be followed by some rip-off souvenir shop or tour. This is rife around Hammamet and Sousse Kasbahs.

Touts can easily be dealt with by smiling and walking on, avoiding conversation or a simple ‘no thank-you’. I’ve come across touts in many places. But in Tunisia, it is the lying that isn’t very nice. You can swap your hotel wrist band around so that they cannot see where you are staying which can help – they won’t be able to name your hotel and their plan will be scuppered!

Shopping – Poor Quality Goods

Don’t be deceived by the rip off brands or pay over the odds for poor quality clothing and bags. On the plane, we learnt from a Tunisian fellow passenger that many Tunisians fly to the UK for their shopping because quality in Tunisia can be very poor. Personally, I prefer to spend my money on experiences rather than things anyway these days.

The Weather is not always Guaranteed but can be hot

Tunisia is an excellent destination for summer sun, but good weather is not guaranteed in low season (October through to April). We experienced weather that was not much warmer than UK and periodic showers when we were there in March. I guess that’s what happens when you go for a ‘cheapy’ out of season! The other couple in our hotel who usually frequent Mexico were very vocal about their disappointment in this!

However, in the summer months you will need a good sun-cream and I would recommend that you go for a high factor – 30 or even 50. I use Garnier Ambre Solaire Factor 30 . If you are looking to splash out then go for the Clinique SPF 30 Mineral sunscreen lotion .

Security and Terrorist Threats

Although there was nothing going on with regards to terrorism when we were there, the atmosphere just didn’t always feel so safe. Several army trucks full of soldiers were pulled up by the toll roads on the main road from Hammamet to Tunis. Checking under cars for bombs is not an unusual experience in Tunisia. In 2015, a mass shooting occurred at the tourist resort at Port El Kantaoui, about 10 kilometres north of the city of Sousse. Always check the Foreign Office Tunisia Advice (or the advice of your own government if you are not British) before you travel and be aware of security risks.

Attention from Men

Sometimes, women do get unwanted attention from men in Tunisia, and this attention can particularly focus on young girls especially blonds. Be aware of being followed in Kasbahs and on beaches. It’s a good idea to dress conservatively and avoid strappy tops and short skirts due to this. A headscarf or pashmina is great for covering up to avoid unwanted attention from men in Tunisia:

My Holiday to Tunisia – The Ugly

Let’s go all out here and talk about the two things I hated about Tunisia! The first was the projectile vomiting. The second was getting bitten by a stray dog! The third was the taxi driver who nearly killed us by speeding and dodging cars on the motorway!

Projectile Vomiting!

Literally the evening of the first day the tummy rumbles started. I ran to the bathroom and just about made it in time! I didn’t want my mom to worry or know that I had proper chucked up, and so I told her it was probably just my endometriosis.

The next day, poor sweet mommy projectile vomited – we just about managed to whisk magazines down on the floor ready! It was definitely something we ate or drank at Belissaire and Thallasso resort as we hadn’t eaten anywhere else. We lost a couple of days of the holiday from the sickness which cut it down to 5 days rather than 7. Later in the week we saw that they mixed juice with tap water which could be what gave us the bug.

I’d advise you to include some Dioralyte in your medical kit to rehydrate and replace lost salts. Also it might be a good idea to pack Imodium in case you have an issue on a long flight or bus journey!

Stray Dogs!

I’ve been to many countries where there are stray dogs on the street. India and Turkey to name a few. It’s never been a concern to me as I’m not scared of dogs and can usually recognise a dogs body language. I usually just remain calm, walk past them and it’s all good. Well, not in Hammamet! I was walking along a row of cafes and shops between the old town and new town and saw a stray dog eying me up. As usual, I carried on walking calmly. The bugger nipped the back of my calf! A cafe owner came out banging a pan which scored him off! Don’t worry, I was wearing jeans and the skin wasn’t broken, so we were all good and no necessary rabies shots, but I was like WTF?!

Marked Up Taxis and Dangerous Drivers

The first thing to note is to book your own taxis in Tunisia. Hotels there are notorious for marking up. I was really angry with Belisaire and Thalasso for marking up our taxi almost double the price! They tried to charge us £60 for a half day private driver to Hammamet. I pushed him down to £50 which created a lot of fuss. When I saw the receipt in Dirhams and did the maths in my head, it was only around £30. For this reason, I’d be apprehensive about booking with Thomas Cook or staying at this hotel again. They don’t have Uber or Grab taxis in Tunisia and I don’t speak Arabic, so it was not so easy to book our own.

Anyway, after much debate with our hotel manager about the taxi price, he claimed that the price was higher for a good English speaking driver. He did not speak much English. he was not a good driver!

Although we did achieve the desired result of visiting most of the historical sites Carthage, he drove back like a maniac, almost crashing into the back of the car in front of him on the motorway! Be warned – Tunisian drivers are not the safest. This topped my bad road experience in India!

Would I go on Holiday to Tunisia again?

If you asked me whether I would go on holiday to Tunisia again I can actually say that I would. Despite the ‘bad’ and the ‘ugly’ elements on this trip I still felt that it was worth it for the Roman and Arabic history that I got to experience. I would definitely return – I’d like to go to Djerba and Monastir one day, but I’m honestly not in a hurry to go back.

Are there any Alternatives to Tunisia?

I did enjoy Tunisia and would recommend it, but overall I think I’d sooner rather go back to Morocco. I felt that the customer service was more authentic and a higher quality of food and drink there. Here are my top things to do in Marrakech . I’d love to explore the North of Morocco next time including Fez, Casablanca and Chefchaouen. If you want an alternative to Tunisia, Morocco is a good option.

What to take on Holiday to Tunisia

If you are travelling to Tunisia, there are certain essentials that I recommend…

• The obvious – passport, money, debit/credit card and travel documents/tickets.
• Type C plug converter for sockets – I like this one with several USB ports .
• A refillable water bottle such as the lifestraw .
• A headscarf or pashmina for going into Mosques and also keeping your shoulders warm in the evenings.
• Sunglasses and sun cream to protect yourself from the heat (I use Garnier Ambre Solaire factor 30 )
• Insect repellant with DEET or alternative (I use Jungle Formula insect repellant )
• After sun in case you get burnt – I use this Clinique after sun rescue balm with Aloe .
• Light foundation or tinted moisturiser so that you can wear some light make up without it being heavy and creasing in the Tunisian sun. My Estee Lauder Day Wear was absolutely perfect for Tunisia – it is multi-protection anti-oxident sheer tint release moisturiser that comes out of the tube white and then adjusts with your skin pigmentation when you put it on. So you get the perfect coverage and the perfect colour!

• Good walking boots for going round Carthage and walking around the kasbahs (expect uneven ground so pack sturdy footwear). These Karrimor weatherlite are perfect for Tunisia.
• A pair of walking sandals (I love Teva ) and flip flops for hotel and beach wear.
• A hand held fan – either manual or battery operated ( this one has great reviews)
• Long walking trousers or hiking trousers – ones like these Regatta ones are great because they have zip off bottoms and convert into shorts!

• Plenty of T-shirts and long sleeve T-shirts or linen tops.
• A full conservative bathing suit – even possibly one like this one with arms and shorts in it (Tunisia is not the place for skimpy bikinis). At least take a full costume and sarong.

Further Reading on taking a Holiday to Tunisia

I hope that you enjoyed reading about my holiday in Tunisia. Here are some other blogs that you might find useful…

• What to wear in Tunisia – advice for both men and women.
• 3 days in Tunisia – how should I spend it?
• Visiting the most famous Mosques in Tunisia .
• 10 amazing things to do in Tunisia .
• El Djem Amphitheatre – Better preserved than the Colosseum!
• The Best Day trips from Hammamet .
• How to spend a weekend in Tunis – the Tunisian Capital
• The Ultimate Tunisia Itinerary
• Is Tunisia worth visiting?

Templeseeker

Hi, I'm Amy and I have over 25 years of travel experience. I love seeking out temples, Churches and other religious and historical buildings. My BA (Religions and Theology) and MA (South Asian Studies) were gained from the University of Manchester. When I'm not blogging about Europe, Asia and the Middle East you will find me at home in Liverpool with my husband and Blake the Patterdale terrier! Come and join me on my templeseeking journey around the world!

The Best Time to Visit Tunisia for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Tunisia for ideal weather are

March 12th to June 3rd

October 8th to december 2nd.

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Tunisia Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Tunisia Travel Info

Weather in tunisia.

Average temperatures in Tunisia vary greatly. Considering humidity, temperatures feel very nice much of the year, but hot in the summer and cold in the winter with a very low chance of rain or snow throughout the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 56th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Tunisia, the hottest months are August, July, and then September. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early August where highs are regularly around 96.4°F (35.8°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 72.7°F (22.6°C) at night.

Tunisia Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Tunisia temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Tunisia Perceived Temperature (F)

Tunisia perceived temperature (c), average tunisia temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Tunisia are July, June, and then August. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around late June. For example, on the week of June 25th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early March with an average of 2 days of significant precipitation the week of March 5th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Tunisia.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Tunisia (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Tunisia has some comfortably humid months, and slightly dry months in the opposite season. The least humid month is July (39.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is January (59.1%).

Wind in Tunisia is usually moderate . The windiest month is May, followed by March and June. May’s average wind speed of around 8.4 knots (9.7 MPH or 15.6 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in mid May where average top sustained speeds reach 14.8 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Tunisia.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to tunisia.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for Tunisia; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Oct 26, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Tunisia is August, followed by July and March. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Tunisia in December. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall tunisia travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 82.7°F (28.2°C) and 62.7°F (17.1°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with 2 to 4 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have hot weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the least precipitation with 0 to 1 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Tunisia, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 91.3°F (32.9°C) and 67.1°F (19.5°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a normal amount: 2 to 3 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is too cold this time of year in Tunisia to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 66°F (18.9°C) and 60.6°F (15.9°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 3 to 4 times per month. These times of year are fairly slow with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Tunisia

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to:

• the Chaambi Mountains National Park and the designated military operations zones of Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma and Mount Mghila
• the militarised zone south of the towns of El Borma and Dhehiba
• within 20km of the rest of the Libya border area north of Dhehiba
• the town of Ben Guerdane and immediate surrounding area

In addition and for security reasons, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• within 75km of the Libyan border, including Remada, El Borma and the town of Zarzis
• the governorate of Kasserine, including the town of Sbeitla
• within 10km of the border with Algeria south of Kasserine governorate
• within 30km of the border in El Kef and Jendouba governorates south of the town of Jendouba, including the archaeological site of Chemtou
• areas north and west of the town of Ghardimaou in Jendouba governorate, including El Feidja National Park
• within 10km of Mount Mghila
• Mount Orbata

Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Tunisia’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance .

Since 1 July, the city of Sfax has witnessed several days of civil unrest, including reports of injuries, arrests and one death, related to heightened tensions between local residents and migrants from sub-Saharan Africa. Security forces in Sfax and the region are on high alert. Further disturbances could occur with little or no warning and impact other Black people perceived to be of sub-Saharan African origin.

Terrorists are still very likely to try to carry out further attacks in Tunisia, including against UK and Western interests. There have been a number of self-initiated attacks in 2023. On 3 July a National Guard officer was attacked with a knife in the La Goulette area of Tunis.

In June, a police officer was stabbed and killed outside the Brazilian Embassy in Tunis. In May, a fatal shooting took place on the island of Djerba, near to where Tunisian and international visitors were taking part in the annual Jewish pilgrimage at the El Ghriba synagogue. Three security personnel and two civilians were killed, and ten people were injured.

Security forces remain on a high state of alert in Tunis and other places. You should be vigilant at all times, including around religious sites and festivals. Crowded areas, government installations, transportation networks, businesses with Western interests, and areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather may be at higher risk of attack. You should be particularly vigilant in these areas and follow any specific advice of the local security authorities. In more remote areas of the country, including tourist sites in southern Tunisia, security forces’ response times to an incident may vary. Follow the advice of the Tunisian security authorities and your travel company if you have one. See Terrorism

Parliamentary elections took place in December 2022 and January 2023 and the new Parliament opened in March 2023.

Protests occur in Tunisia with little or no warning, and can sometimes become violent. They usually take place in central areas of Tunis and other major cities, and in the vicinity of government buildings, often but not always on weekends or around prominent national anniversary dates. In response to the current situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, peaceful demonstrations have occurred in some Tunisian cities, including outside some Western embassies. Avoid all protests, and move away from gathered crowds. Keep up to date with developments through the media and follow the instructions given by the Tunisian authorities as well as your hotel and tour operator, if you have one. See Political and security situation

You can contact the emergency services by calling:

• 197 (police - when in cities and towns)
• 193 (national guard - when in rural areas or small villages)
• 190 (ambulance)
• 198 (civil protection - for assistance at incidents, such as car accidents, to provide medical assistance and response to fire).

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission . Consular support may be limited in parts of Tunisia.

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The largest country in the world at 17,075,400 square kilometres (or 6,592,800 sq mi), Russia has accumulated quite an impressive reputation. Covering more than an eight of the Earth's land area, 142 million people live there making it the ninth largest nation by population . Still known for its impressive days as the expansive Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), Russia was the world's first and largest constitutionally socialist state. A recognized superpower, the USSR was known for its excellence in both arts and science winning many awards in both fields.

Russia changed drastically after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, but it continues to be a powerful and important nation. It has one of the world's fastest growing economies and the world's eight largest GDP by nominal GDP. Russia is also one of the five countries which officially recognized nuclear weapons states. In conjunction with this title, Russia is also a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, the G8, APEC and the SCO, and is a leading member of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

A European city in a country that lies over a vast part of Asia, Moscow holds one-tenth of all Russian residents . The city is located in the western region of Russia and is the capital and epicentre of political, economic, cultural, religious, financial, educational, and transportation happenings. "Muscovites" , as residents are known, tend to be cultured and worldly. This may be due to the many scientific, educational, and artistic institutions that are based here. An intoxicating mix of the exotic and the familiar, it is the largest city in Europe with the Moscow metropolitan area ranking among the largest urban areas in the world.

The city is situated on the banks of the Moskva River which flows through much of central Russia. Moscow is actually located in a basin for the Volga, Oka, Klyazma, and Moscow rivers. The city of Moscow is 994 sq. km with 49 bridges spanning the rivers and canals that criss-cross the city.

Forests are another part of Moscow's make-up. They coveer over a third of the territory in the region. A variety of animals like elk, wild boar, deer, foxes, weasels, lynx, martens, and birds make their home here.

Located in the UTC+3 time zone , Moscow has a humid continental climate. The summers tend to be warm and humid and the winters are long, cold, and hard. High temperatures occur during the warm months of June, July and August at about 23 °C (73 °F). Heat waves sometimes grip the city anywhere between May to September with temperatures spiking up to 30 °C (86 °F). Winters are harshly chilly with temperatures dropping to approximately 9 °C (15.8 °F). There is consistent snow cover for 3 to 5 months a year, usually from November to March.

Update 10/07/2009

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Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Attractions

Things to do in elektrostal.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Electrostal History and Art Museum

2. Statue of Lenin

3. Park of Culture and Leisure

4. museum and exhibition center.

5. Museum of Labor Glory

7. Galereya Kino

8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.

10. Gandikap

11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.

• Statue of Lenin
• Electrostal History and Art Museum
• Park of Culture and Leisure
• Museum and Exhibition Center
• Museum of Labor Glory