travel republic to tunisia

The Tunisian Way

Learn about Tunisian life

19 things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Looking for a simple travel guide? This guide includes 19 things to know before traveling to Tunisia. However, for now, I am sticking to the basics. Knowing these things will ensure that your trip is full of good surprises and that you will enjoy every minute of your visit. Let’s start! The 19 things to know before you go to Tunisia are…

What is Tunisia famous for?

Why should you go to Tunisia? Tunisia is famous for its versatile nature, delicious cuisine, 1100km long coastline with hundreds of beaches, beautiful architecture, and fascinating history. The country has the charm to attract thousands of tourists from all across the globe every year. So, definitely add it to your list of must-travel destinations.

Best time to visit - when to visit Tunisia?

The best time to visit Tunisia depends totally on your preferences. What kind of weather do you like? What are you planning to do during your stay? Summer months, such as June, July, and August, are considered the best time to visit Tunisia. These months are also the most popular among tourists. It’s a great time to visit due to its beautiful weather and the country full of life.

September, October, and November are ideal for discovering the Sahara, as the weather isn’t too hot anymore. The best time for sightseeing and traveling around the country is February-April and September-October when the weather is mild and not too rainy. The best time to visit the country for the elderly is the spring months March-May, and the autumn months, October and November. These months offer plenty of sunlight without excessive heat.

Here you find how the Tunisian weather looks on a month-to-month which might help you to make better travel plans.

What type of food is eaten in Tunisia?

The typical Tunisian food is hot and spicy. Commonly traditional Tunisian dishes contain couscous, pasta, lamb, beef, chicken, chickpeas, green peppers, parsley, and harissa. Instead of eating with a fork and knife, Tunisians usually eat with bread. On your trip, try traditional Tunisian dishes like couscous, Slata Mechouia, Chorba, Brik , Mlawi, and Tajine.

Interested in trying some Tunisian drinks? You must drink at least Tunisian mint tea, fresh lemonade, a soft drink Boga Cidre, and Rouzata. Sounds interesting, right? Click here to find out more about Tunisian drinks. Now, you have an idea of what to eat and drink in Tunisia. But of course, we can’t forget all the traditional Tunisian sweets, pastries, and cookies. To get some inspiration, check the list of ten popular Tunisian sweets you need to try.

What's the currency in Tunisia?

The currency in Tunisia is called the dinar, with the Latin symbol DT and the currency code TND. One dinar equals 1000 millimes. The most used notes are 5, 10, 20, and 50 dinars. The coins are ½, 1, 2, 5 dinars, and 50, 100, and 200 millimes. The Tunisian dinar is a closed currency, which means it is only available in Tunisia. You won’t be able to purchase dinars in advance from your home country and bring those for your trip. Actually, it is illegal to import and export Tunisian dinars.

What is the main religion in Tunisia?

Islam is the largest religion in Tunisia. Approximately 99% of the inhabitants are Sunni Muslims, and the rest belongs to Christians and Jewish. The country hasn’t been using Sharia law since 1956, and Tunisia was the first Arab country to ban polygamy.

Where is Tunisia? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Tunisia is a relatively small country located in Northwest Africa. Algeria borders the country to the west, and Libya lies to the southeast. To the east is the 1100km long coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Also, the northernmost point of the African continent Ras Ben Sakka is in Tunisia.

Should I visit Tunisia during Ramadan?

What is ramadan.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims, the followers of Islam. It is celebrated as the month when Muhammad received the book Quran. Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar-based Islamic calendar, and the exact beginning will be confirmed upon the sighting of the new moon. During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. In this case, fasting means abstinence from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual relations.

Ramadan in Tunisia - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Visiting Tunisia during Ramadan will be a memorable experience. Tunisians say that during this month, the country has a unique taste, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to discover Tunisian culture.

If you are heading to Tunisian during Ramadan, be aware of the rhythm of these things:

During the day, most of the cafes and restaurants are closed ( In the tourist areas, you will find restaurants open where you can eat if you are not fasting)
Shops will close a couple hours before breaking the fast.
Cafes and restaurants will open after breaking the fast.
The nights will be filled with people and celebration.
During Ramadan, nightclubs and bars are closed.

What language is spoken in Tunisia? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

The official language of Tunisia is Arabic. Tunisian Arabic, also called Tunisian, Tounsi, and Derja, is spoken by over 11 million people. The Tunisian dialect is part of Maghrebi Arabic and resembles the dialects in Libya and Algeria. The Tounsi has some similarities with Maltese and also includes a lot of loanwords from languages such as French, Italian, Spanish, and Turkish. Other Maghrebi Arabic speakers understand the Tunisian dialect, but for other Arabic-speaking countries, it is hard to understand.

Do Tunisians speak French?

Besides Tunisian Arabic, Tunisians can also speak French. Some are fluent, others know the basics, and some cannot communicate with it. In school, French is taught to children from the age of seven. So, speaking french might be helpful, but it is better not to generalize that everybody speaks and understands it.

Do Tunisian speak English?

Most Tunisians don’t speak English. So, if you don’t speak French or Arabic, communicating might be a challenge. In the tourist areas and hotels, you will manage in English. Nowadays, teaching English starts earlier in schools, which could ease communicating in English in the future. But, I must say that even though there is no common language, you will find a way to be understood. So, absolutely don’t let this slow you done.

How to dress in Tunisia?

It’s your first trip, and you might be confused about what to wear in Tunisia. Tunisia is a conservative country, but they are very used to tourists. So, how tourist should be dressing? The short answer is that there is no dress code in Tunisia. You can wear whatever you want and dress as you like. The southern parts are more conservative than the northern parts. I advise you to dress more modestly and respect the local culture in the south and smaller cities and villages.

What to pack for Tunisia? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Read my post, the dressing guide for Tunisia if you are hesitating about what you should wear. There I answer the frequently asked question, such as what do women wear in Tunisia? What to wear at the beach, Sahara desert, or mosque? What not to wear in Tunisia? It’s helpful, so be sure to read it through.

And what to pack? Remember to check my ultimate packing list for Tunisia. It helps you pack the right clothes, essentials, electronics, and toiletries for your trip. In addition, I made clothing and toiletry lists for women and men, paying attention to the weather in different seasons. I also mention a couple of useful extras to bring with you.

19 things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Leave the drone at home - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Planning to make a fantastic video by flying a drone above Tunisian attractions? Not gonna happen! Filming with a drone requires permission from several Ministries, and the process is very time-consuming. If you travel with a drone and without a valid permit, usually, it will be confiscated. In conclusion, for this trip, better to leave the drone at home.

Can I drink tap water? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

In Tunisia, it’s best to drink bottled water. Even though drinking tap water is apparently alright, but still the majority of Tunisians drink bottled water. In addition, it is cheap and tastes better than tap water.

Versatile nature of Tunisia - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Tunisia has a beautiful and versatile nature. You will discover the Mediterranean sea, mountains, oases, the Sahara desert, islands, salt lakes, caves, and rivers. If nature is close to your heart, definitely consider traveling here.

Traffic in Tunisia - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Planning to have a road trip? Definitely, it’s one of the best ways to discover the country. But happens to be that traffic is the biggest security threat to travelers in Tunisia. The traffic can seem very chaotic to someone not used to it. The number of traffic accidents and casualties is unfortunately high. For a road trip, I recommend renting a car, but it is good to be aware of the nature of the traffic. For short distances and cities, I would use taxis and public transportation. This is the way to avoid stress caused by traffic jams, parking, and renting a car.

Historical landmarks - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Tunisia is a dream destination for people passionate about historical landmarks and attractions. You can easily spend weeks filled with historical sightseeing. Here are a couple of examples to give you an idea of what is waiting for you.

Discover Carthage, the old capital of ancient Carthaginian. It was an important trading spot in the Mediterranean sea. Carthage has a lot to offer if you are interested in historical sites, buildings, and landmarks: ruins of Carthage, Roman Amphitheater, Antonine baths, L’Acropolium, Byrsa Hill, and the National Museum .
A famous Tunisian attraction, the El Jem amphitheater is something you do not want to miss. It is one of the world’s largest and most well-preserved Roman-style amphitheaters. Located in a small city El Jem (El Djem), about 200km from Tunis and only 60km from Monastir.
Old Medina is one of my favorite places in Tunis. If you have only limited time, I advise you to visit Old Medina. Many tourists come from other cities to Tunis only to discover this. So you don’t want to miss this place. Old Medina is a maze of ancient streets and a home to hundreds of souks (=small boutiques). Fill your bags with the most beautiful souvenirs: carpets, shoes, sweets, jewelry, ceramics, and clothing.

what to know before traveling to Tunisia

Is Tunisia cheap or expensive? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Are you wondering what sort of budget is needed for Tunisia? What kind of budget you need depends on what kind of traveler you are and what type of holiday you plan to have? Are you looking for a 5-star beach resort or backpacker hostel? Traveling alone or with family? If we compare the prices in Tunisia to other popular holiday destinations, we can conclude that Tunisia is cheap.

Having a holiday in Tunisia is relatively cheap. This is one of the factors why every year thousands of tourists come to spend a holiday. You need a relatively small budget for accommodation, transportation, restaurants, activities, and parties. To help you plan the holiday budget, read this article.

Is Tunisia safe? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Tunisia is a safe travel destination for tourists. In general, crimes against travelers and foreigners are low. The authorities have improved security in tourist resorts and major cities and their ability to respond to potential safety hazards. Also, crimes against tourists are punished harshly. Recently, many foreign governments have declared that Tunisia is safe for tourists .

To get to know more about safety in Tunisia, click here! I answer questions regarding the safety of female travelers, potential safety hazards, and areas to avoid, and share some safety tips.

Haggling is an art - souvenir shopping.

Haggling is an ordinary social activity in Tunisia. I understand that it might feel awkward if you are not used to it. But it is a big part of shopping, especially in souks in Medina, so get ready for it. Most of the time, there is room for a bargain, so here are a couple of tips to help you out.

Haggling is supposed to be fun, so don’t take it too seriously. My friend, don’t forget to smile.
Start bargain only if you are willing to buy the item.
Don’t bargain in chains (Zara, H&M, LC Waikiki, Carrefour) and markets where they sell fruits, bakery products, fish, and meat.
Tunisians are full of passion and emotions, which you will notice when bargaining with them. Big emotions are part of the process.
You can always say thank you for your time and leave if you are not pleased with the deal.
Continue to negotiate until you find a price that fits both.

Be careful when crossing the street - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

As I mentioned before, traffic is chaotic in Tunisia. Be careful when crossing the street because most cars will not stop. Also, you can’t stand there forever, hoping traffic to end or someone to stop for you. When you decide to cross, be prepared to stop between the lanes.

Can I drink alcohol? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Unlike some other Arabic countries, in Tunisia, alcohol is legal, and the legal drinking age is 18. So, you can buy and drink alcohol, but it should not be consumed in public, for example, on the streets.

Here you find the guidelines for drinking, smoking, and partying in Tunisia.

And voila, we are done! This was my list of the things to know before traveling to Tunisia. I hope you find it helpful! I will be happy to help, so please do not hesitate to leave a comment or question. See you again next week!

1 Comment on 19 things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Is alcohol in Tunisia less expensive than alcohol in Morocco or the same?

A first-time guide to Tunisia

Aug 20, 2024 • 7 min read

Even on a short trip you should have time to visit the village of Sidi Bou Saïd. Getty Images

Tunisia has long been a destination for sun seekers but this North African country within arm’s length of the Italian island of Sicily has much more than beaches of golden sand.

Despite its small size, Tunisia shelters many treasures recognized by UNESCO – eight cultural sites and a national park. This is in addition to a plethora of historical monuments and towns full of architectural wonders which reveal the country’s fascinating mix of Berber, Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and French influences.

Tunisia also stands out for the diversity of its landscape. The lush hills and agricultural plains of the north make way for endless rows of olive groves in the center of the country, while the arid south is painted with mystical desert vistas.

Exciting new initiatives in sustainable and cultural tourism have sprung up in recent years, enticing visitors away from the beach resorts and into spice markets, olive groves, wineries, and artisans’ workshops to sample Tunisia’s many gastronomic delights and learn about its traditional handicrafts.

Tunisia is also easy on the wallet for those traveling on a budget, with plenty of upscale options for those who prefer a spot of luxury.

People walking in the medina quarter of Tunis, Tunisia

When should I go to Tunisia?

Summer is peak season when beachside resorts fill up with sun-seeking tourists. This is also the hottest time of year, with average temperatures rising to the mid-30℃ (mid-90s ℉). Days are a bit cooler in the spring and autumn – consider a visit during these seasons if you plan to explore the sights. Even in winter, temperatures remain relatively mild, especially in the south where days are warm, but nights can get nippy.

Summer is also when music lovers flock to the international festivals of Carthage, Hammamet, Sousse and Dougga which showcase open air concerts in atmospheric settings.

During the holy month of Ramadan, restaurants and cafes close their shutters during the day but reopen at nightfall after the breaking of the fast, often until the small hours. Though everyday life slows down, visiting during Ramadan provides the chance to experience the nightly festive atmosphere.

How much time should I spend in Tunisia?

If you have only a weekend, two to three days could be enough for a quick introduction to Tunis as well as the chic coastal city of La Marsa , and romantic Sidi Bou Saïd , both situated on the outskirts of the capital.

But at least a week is needed to browse the souqs and markets of Tunis’ 7th century medina, explore the vast archaeological site at Carthage , and take a beach break in Hammamet followed by a seafood lunch at a waterside bistro. This also leaves time to shop for traditional ceramics in Nabeul , or a side trip to take in the ruins of ancient Roman Dougga .

With 10 days to two weeks, you can make your way to Sousse to discover its historical 9th century medina, marvel at the great mosque of Kairouan , and the magnificent Roman amphitheater at El Jem . Head further south for a break on the sandy beaches of the island of Djerba before rounding off your Tunisian adventure in the desert landscapes of the south.

Visitors at the 'Star wars' Tatooine movie set at Mos Espa near Nefta.

Is it easy to get to and around Tunisia?

Tunis-Carthage is Tunisia’s main airport with direct flights to many cities in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Seasonal flights bring holidaymakers from Europe to the airports of Monastir Habib Bourguiba, Enfidha-Hammamet, and Djerba-Zarzis. Consider flying into one airport and out of another to cut down on travel time.

Ferries sail year-round to Tunis from Marseille (22 hours) and Palermo (11 hours), while summer services also link Tunis to Civitavecchia (Rome) and Genova, and Zarzis in the south with Marseille and Tripoli, Libya.

Tunisia is a small country with an extensive road network that makes getting around by car the most efficient way to travel. Book a car with one of the rental companies operating at the airport or via a local tourist agent.

Trains run as far south as Gabes and Tozeur in the west, but rail travel is a lot slower and less reliable than public buses which are inexpensive and air-conditioned to boot.

Tunisia’s louage system is the most convenient and cost effective way to travel. These white minibuses, operating as share-taxis, set off for their destination once all eight seats are taken and paid for. Each city has a dedicated louage station.

Metered taxis operate only within the urban area they’re licensed for and are generally very good value at less than 1DT per kilometer. You can also book a cab using the Bolt or Oto apps but fares are slightly more expensive.

Ruins of the largest colosseum in North Africa, the Amphitheatre of El Jem.

Top things to do in Tunisia

Scattered over an area of 3kms, the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Carthage is chock full of age-old ruins dating to Phoenician, Punic, and Roman times, as well as a jumble of Paleochristian and Arab relics. The most impressive remains of this sea-facing ancient city, once an important commercial center, include the semi-circular Roman amphitheater, the arched walls of the Roman Antonine Baths, and the reconstructed Villa of the Aviary.

It’s an easy side-trip from Tunis to picture-perfect Sidi Bou Said, set on a cliffside overlooking the Gulf of Tunis. It’s a delight to wander its cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed villas punctuated with bright blue doors and windows. Then pause for a glass of mint tea at Café des Nattes or take in the sweeping sea views from the terrace of Café des Délices.

Explore the medinas of Tunis and Sousse, both listed by UNESCO as World Heritage sites, to get a feel for typical Arabo-Muslim architecture. Inside these walled mini-cities you’ll come across a labyrinth of lanes opening onto squares and courtyards, imposing mansions, centuries-old mosques, and buzzing bazaars and souqs.

Head into the desert landscapes of Tunisia’s deep south to explore Star Wars film sets , followed by a camel trek through sandy dunes. Here you can get close to Berber culture, spend a night in troglodyte cave dwellings, or camp in the desert.

Get to know Tunisia through your taste buds by joining a market tour or cooking class with Sawa Taste of Tunisia . Browse spice markets, learn about flower distillation techniques, and sample Tunisia’s exquisite harissa, olive oil, and typical delicacies such as mlawi , a flaky flatbread, or brik , a deep-fried pastry stuffed with egg and tuna.

My favorite thing to do in Tunisia

Instead of staying at a generic hotel, I love to overnight at typical Tunisian dars, traditional houses which have been converted into bed and breakfast-style accommodation. These rambling mansions with open-air courtyards at their center, are often tucked away in the narrow lanes of historic medinas. Their thick walls provide a quiet respite from the urban hustle and bustle, and are decorated with exquisite examples of traditional handiwork: hand-painted ceramic tiles gracing walls and floors, columns carved out of stone or wood, and original metalwork.

Dar Ben Gacem has two locations (rue du Pacha and Rue El Kahia) in the heart of Tunis’ medina. Both houses have been lovingly restored and their traditional aesthetics preserved. A collection of vibrant art works and ceramics add to their old world charm, but what draws me back are the upper floor libraries full of cozy corners and a carefully curated collection of art and history books.

Souvenir earthenware and carpets on display at a Tunisian market.

How much money do I need for Tunisia?

Accommodation will eat up the majority of your travel budget in Tunisia but you can keep in-country travel costs low. Prices for food and drink can vary from very affordable to pricey, depending on the locale.

hostel room: 20DT
basic room for two: 70DT
self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): 70DT
public transport ticket: 0.50DT-0.80DT
cup of coffee: 1.30DT-6DT
glass of mint tea: 1.20DT-8DT
sandwich: 5DT-10DT
dinner for two: 25DT
beer/pint at the bar: 5DT

Do I need a visa for Tunisia?

Most travelers can stay in Tunisia visa-free for up to 90 days.

Which languages are spoken in Tunisia?

Standard Arabic is the national language but Tunisia has its own distinct dialect. As a former French protectorate, French is largely spoken while many young people increasingly prefer to speak English instead.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Aug 16, 2024 • 9 min read

From wandering the ancient streets of the old town to where to eat and sleep, we've got everything you need to know before your first trip to Genoa.

Aug 13, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Stradun Street Dubrovnik or tour the Rome's colosseum

Jun 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Santuario della Madonna Nera di Tindari | Beautiful Church next to the Sea | Sicily | Italy

May 24, 2024 • 4 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 17, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 10, 2024 • 6 min read

Multigenerational group of tourists standing in front of panoramic view of Mediterranean Sea

Mar 1, 2024 • 5 min read

Travel to Tunisia in 2024: Tips + Itinerary

By Joan Torres 21 Comments Last updated on August 27, 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

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

our recommended travel insurance for Tunisia

IATI Insurance is the most versatile insurance for any destination, including Tunisia.

🪪 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.

🚑 Travel Insurance for Tunisia

IATI Insurance is the most versatile insurance for any type of trip and destination, including Tunisia:

Different plans for each kind of travelers
Budget plans
Covers senior citizens too
Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount

⛅ 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

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

PIN IT FOR LATER

21 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 🙂

Thanks for all the effort in putting all this information together. I have to say, the undertones of disdain towards the Islamic culture was very off-putting. Using words like “open-minded” or “fundamentalist” were not necessary. You are a guest in a Muslim country so it shouldn’t be so jarring to see those influences. It seems like you were only impressed by the remnants of Roman colonization.

Join our Expeditions

From Syria to Iraq in Pakistan, Against the Compass is finally running expeditions to the most epic and off-the-beaten-track countries.

We have scheduled expeditions for every month of the year.

Latest posts

How to travel to Eritrea in 2024
How to travel to Svalbard in 2024
How to travel to Afghanistan during Taliban rule (2024)
How to Travel to Libya in 2024
Backpacking Venezuela Travel Guide (2024)

Search Please fill out this field.
Newsletters
Destinations
Africa & Middle East

Tunisia Travel: Visas, Health, Transport, & More

Alison Lyons Photography/Getty Images

There are many reasons to plan a trip to Tunisia . Perhaps you're drawn by the North African nation's incredible history, which can be experienced first-hand at some of the world's best-preserved Roman archaeological sites. Maybe it's the sun-drenched resort towns of the Mediterranean coast that appeal to you; or perhaps you're interested in exploring the Berber villages and dramatic dunes of the Sahara Desert. Whatever your inspiration for visiting Tunisia, there are a few practicalities that you need to consider when making your plans. This article gives an overview of them all, from visa requirements to vaccination recommendations.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of 97 countries and territories are eligible to visit Tunisia for short-term tourism purposes without having to apply for a visa . The list of visa-exempt countries includes the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and all members of the European Union except Cyprus. For most countries, the visa-free period is 90 days, although citizens from Canada and Germany may stay for up to four months, while Bulgarians can stay for two months and Greeks can stay for one. Nationalities that do require a visa will soon be able to apply for an e-visa rather than having to visit their nearest Tunisian consulate in person.

Health & Safety

Vaccinations

Although Tunisia doesn't have any mandatory vaccination requirements for travelers, the CDC recommends ensuring that all of your routine vaccinations are up to date before departure. In addition, hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are recommended for most travelers, while rabies and hepatitis B may be advised depending on which part of the country you're traveling to and what you plan on doing there. You can read a complete overview of the criteria upon which these recommendations are based on the CDC website.

General Medical Advice

Before traveling to Tunisia, make sure that your travel insurance is up to date. Quality healthcare can be hard to come by in rural areas, so be sure to check that your cover includes emergency evacuation if needed. Be prepared that you may have to pay for treatment up front and claim back later once you return home. Pack a first aid kit , including any prescription medicines that you may not be able to get in-country. Officially, tap water is safe to drink throughout Tunisia although many tourists prefer to drink bottled water because of the municipal water's strange taste (caused by a high chlorine content).

Staying Safe

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel warning for Tunisia due to terrorism, and advises that travelers exercise increased caution. This includes avoiding areas where attacks are more likely, such as the western mountains (including Chaambi Mountain National Park), the city of Sidi Bou Zid in central Tunisia, and areas along the Libyan and Algerian borders. Safety advice changes regularly, so be sure to check the latest travel warnings before booking your trip. Violent crime rates are low in Tunisia, but you should still be aware of your valuables when walking through crowded tourist attractions and souks to avoid petty theft.

Tunisia's currency is the Tunisian dinar, which is divided into 1,000 millimes. Coins come in denominations of five, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 500 millimes; and one, five, and 10 dinars. You can get notes worth five, 10, 20, 30, and 50 dinars. It is illegal to import and export Tunisian dinars, which means that you will not be able to exchange your home currency for dinars before you arrive. You can readily change US dollars, British pounds, and euros in-country, and exchange rates are fixed throughout. Do not exchange too much, though, because you can only re-exchange up to 3,000 dinars upon departure (and only if you have the original exchange receipt).

ATMs can be found in cities, medium-sized towns, and major tourist areas. You should be able to use Mastercard or Visa bank cards (American Express is rarely accepted) in these places as well. However, if you plan on traveling into rural Tunisia, expect to use cash for most purchases. Tipping is not mandatory, but is appreciated for good service.

As with many destinations, the weather usually determines the best time to travel to Tunisia. If you want to go camel trekking in the Sahara Desert the best time to go is from late September to November and from March to early May. It will still be chilly at night, but not quite freezing, and the days won't be too hot. If you're headed for the beach and would like to avoid the crowds, May, June, and September are all ideal. Most tourists visit Tunisia in July and August when the sun shines every day, the swimming is perfect, and the beach towns are filled with life. Book your accommodation well in advance if you're planning on traveling during the summer months.

Getting There

Most overseas visitors will enter the country via Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN), located roughly seven kilometers from the center of Tunis, the country's capital. The airport is the home base of Tunisia's national carrier, Tunisair , which offers direct flights to and from destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Although no airlines currently offer direct flights to Tunisia from the United States, Tunisair does offer a non-stop service between Tunis and Montreal. Other airlines offering connecting flights to Tunisia include Air France, Lufthansa, EgyptAir, and Turkish Airlines.

An alternative option is to travel to Tunis via ferry from Europe. Three companies ( Maritima Ferries , Corsica Linea , and Compagnie Tunisienne de Navigation , or CTN) run regular ferry services from Marseilles in France, with the journey taking approximately 20 hours. You can also sail to Tunis from several ports in Italy, including Sicily-Palermo, Civitavecchia, Trapani, Genoa, and Salerno. The quickest route from Italy to Tunis departs from Sicily-Palermo and takes 10 hours. There are two operators to choose from: Grimaldi Lines (two weekly departures) and Grandi Navi Veloci (one weekly departure).

Note: For safety reasons, overland travel between Tunisia and Libya and/or Algeria is not currently recommended.

Getting Around

If you have limited time, consider using Tunisia's domestic flight network (operated by Tunisair Express ) to travel in between its larger cities. Possible destinations include Tunis, Djerba, Tozeur, Sfax, Gafsa, Garbes, Monastir, and Tabarka.

By Train Trains in Tunisia are generally comfortable, cheap, and safe, although journeys are frequently delayed and the trains can be slow. Although the national network is not extensive, most of the major tourist destinations are covered. Tunis has its own light rail network. Trains are operated by SNCFT .

By Bus Tunisia's long-distance bus network is far more comprehensive than its train network, connecting every major town in the country. Buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and cheap. The national bus company, SNTRI , has a decent website with schedules and fares.

Louages, or shared taxis, are an affordable and convenient (if not particularly comfortable) option for both short and long-distance journeys. They don't have a fixed schedule, instead leaving when they're full. Head to the louage station and ask for help finding the right vehicle for your destination.

By Car Most major car hire companies are represented in Tunisia and you can rent a car upon arrival at the airport or in any major city. Tunisian roads are generally well-maintained (although you will need a 4WD if you plan on heading into the desert) and gas is inexpensive. Your regular driving license should be sufficient.

Africa , TUNISIA

11 top tips when you travel tunisia: key things to know before you go.

If you plan to travel Tunisia, then here’s 11 key things you should definitely know before you go!

From what to eat and how to find the best accommodation, through to the best way to get around, what to pack and some top tips for solo female travellers, this is my full guide to prepping, planning and enjoying your travels in this fantastic country.

While Morocco and Egypt may be stealing the lion’s share of tourists in north Africa, Tunisia’s charm lies precisely in the fact that large parts of the country remain wonderfully undiscovered by foreign tourists.

And from beaches to deserts, ancient historic sites to quaint cobbled-street towns, trust me when I say there’s a lot to discover here!

So if you’re heading to this fab country soon, take a read of my following top Tunisia travel tips and start planning your adventure there asap…

Egypt vs Tunisia: Which is Best to Travel?
Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia: Full Travel Guide
55 Best Things to Do in Africa

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.

#1 When to Travel Tunisia?

I really recommend travelling Tunisia in either the spring or autumn months.

Like other countries in North Africa, May June, September and October are ideal months to visit Tunisia because temperatures are still warm enough for sightseeing and the beach, but you’ll avoid the scorching temperatures of the summer.

Winter months are a great time to travel Tunisia if you want to avoid the crowds and get a real bargain, but do beware that, especially in the north of the country, it can be wet and cold during these months.

Learn more about when to visit each area of Tunisia, as well as a month by month overall weather breakdown, in this article I wrote all about the best time to visit Tunisia .

#2 How to Get to Tunisia?

Unless you’re travelling overland from Algeria (which while is possible, is certainly not common!), the vast majority of travellers arriving into Tunisia will come by air.

There’s several international airports in this country, but the main ones are…

#1 Tunis-Carthage – best if you want to begin your travels in the capital Tunis or nearby Sidi Bou Said

#2 Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport – best option if you’re heading for a beach holiday at the Hammamet resort

#3 Djerba Zarzis International Airport – located on the beautiful island of Djerba

#4 Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport – situated near the coastal city of Sousse

#5 Sfax Thyna International Airport – best for exploring the south of the country

The great news is that from most European cities, flights to Tunisia only take around 2-3 hours.

As always I use Skyscanner to find the best prices.

#3 How Best to Travel Around Tunisia?

Tunisia, Zaghouan, Parc National Djebel Zaghouan

In the Tunis-Carthage area, there is a handy metro and regional light train service that gets you between the main areas.

The Bolt rideshare app (like Uber) also exists in this area and is a great idea for getting around without having to worry about language barriers and confusing prices!

Beyond that, long distance trains service major cities in Tunisia including Sousse, El Jem, Sfax, Bizerte and Gabès.

For smaller towns, buses or shared minivan taxis, known as louage , are common modes of transport.

Bookaway is a great site for booking train, bus and private transfer options in Tunisia.

Public transport can be a bit patchy here sadly, so isn’t always ideal for using if you’re on a short itinerary and want to explore a lot.

As such, I really suggest hiring a car to explore this country – especially the north and east regions – and highly recommend Discover Cars for the job.

Alternatively, if you feel more confident travelling Tunisia as part of a group, or with a guides, check out these top Tunisia tours .

#4 How Long to Travel Tunisia For?

I really recommend a minimum of 7 days to travel Tunisia.

Tthis will allow to you to enjoy a couple of destinations located close to each i.e. Tunis, Carthage, Bizerte and Dougga.

If you want to travel more widely across the north of country, including exploring fab destinations such as Al-Huwariyah, Sousse and Zaghouan, then I suggest at least 10 days for your time in Tunisia.

Check out this epic 10 day itinerary I wrote for the north of Tunisia for more ideas.

If you’d also like to explore the south of Tunisia, including the islands of Djerba and some of the key Star Wars sites in the desert, then you’ll need to allow at least 2 weeks for your travels in this country.

#5 What to Pack for Your Tunisia Travels?

What many people don’t realise is that temperatures in Tunisia can be fresh across the country even in the spring and autumn months.

This is especially true in the more mountainous north of the country, but even in the desert at night it can get cool at these times.

As such, I certainly advise bringing some warmer layers with you, including a wind and water proof thin jacket , as well as a denim jacket and a couple of warm jumpers or fleece.

Trainers or sneakers are a great idea as well, so you can enjoy sightseeing and some active pursuits in this country, and don’t forget some longer trousers for cooler days as well.

For beach days in Tunisia, you’ll need swimwear, sunscreen, sunhat and a sarong, while for deserts and religious sites, thin light clothing that covers the knees, chest, shoulders and upper arms is required.

Outside of these items, don’t also forget a good day pack , a filter water bottle , a good camera , a decent guidebook and an Arabic or French phrasebook .

Learn more in this complete Tunisia packing guide I wrote.

#6 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.

#7 Best Things to Do in Tunisia

As most people are aware, Tunisia is filled with some fantastic beaches and stunning stretches of the Sahara, so if you want to get a good dose of sun, sea and sand (especially outside of the peak summer months), this country makes a great choice!

But did you know that Tunisia also offers tons of great stuff to do away from these classic pursuits, including a huge range of active and historic attractions.

Heading to ancient UNESCO-listed sites, such as the Carthage ruins, El-Djem amphitheatre, Dougga archaeological site and Kairouan’s Grand Mosque are some great examples, but between these you can also enjoy a range of outdoor adventures such as kayaking, climbing, caving, cycling, hiking, sailing and diving.

My favourite spots for outdoor activities in this country include the region of Cape Bon, Zaghouan and Siliana.

The latter of these also boasts an amazing array of traditional craft workshops with local women, from cooking to weaving.

Learn more about all these in this list of top 21 things to do in Tunisia .

#8 Is Tunisia Safe to Travel?

I found Tunisia incredibly safe to travel and never felt hassled, watched or pestered when adventuring here, even as a solo female.

In smaller towns especially, I felt comfortable wandering around in the evening and, generally speaking, found the country to be more liberal than other countries I’ve visited in North Africa.

In particular, alcohol was available in hotels across the country, and I found wearing three quarter-length trousers with singlets and a thin scarf to be totally adequate.

While there has been some events that have targeted tourists in the past, in general, I’d say Tunisia feels very safe to travel as long as you follow the usual common sense precautions.

Taking a SIM card is a great way to feel reassured when travelling in less familiar parts of the world too – it’s super handy for Google maps, Whatsapp and Rideshare apps, all of which help keep you safe.

aloSIM is a great solution as you can buy it online before you arrive and then ensure you’re connected as soon as you touchdown in Tunisia.

#9 Is Tunisia Expensive?

I found Tunisia incredibly cheap to travel, in fact I’d rate it as one of the cheapest countries I’ve ever been to (probably only behind Armenia, Georgia, Egypt and Turkey).

Food here is very affordable, as is accommodation, and getting around via public transport costs next to nothing.

As nightlife isn’t a big deal in this country (it’s actually non-existent in many towns!), you won’t spend much on alcohol or going out in the evening here.

The things you will spend a bit more on however are flights to the country (sadly no budget airlines fly here), as well as car hire and tours if this is how you choose to get around the country.

At the most basic end of things, you can easily travel Tunisia on $50 USD a day.

At the top end (eating in fancy resort restaurants and staying in 5* hotels), you’re looking at $300 USD+ a day.

And when it comes to spending money in Tunisia, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card here, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

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 – sold! Grab yours here .

#10 Where to Stay in Tunisia?

While Tunisia doesn’t have any hostels, it does however have a good selection of hotels and resorts across its main cities and resort areas.

For the best accommodation outside of these major destinations however, I high recommend the network of traditional guesthouses known as “dar”.

These are homestay like set-ups, usually in a traditional Tunisia home or guesthouses.

Small and boutique, they generally feature a few rooms, modern comforts and tend to offer homecooked meals in the evening, as well as breakfasts in the morning, which makes them even better in my opinion!

I really loved staying in these Dar properties across Tunisia because they all give a wonderful sense of the culture of this country, as well as comfortable and unique stays.

My top picks include…

Dar Aida in Zaghouan

Dar Villa Zembra in Al Huwariyah

Dar Khadijaa in Hergla

Dar Essid in Sidi Bou Said

Message these accommodation choices direct through the Instagram links above for the easiest booking process – it’s really hard for small Tunisian business to register with Booking.com or Airbnb FYI, so Instagram is the best way to book direct and get the best prices.

#11 Food and Drink in Tunisia

If you weren’t in the know about Tunisian food, then you’re in for a great surprise when you travel this country, because it’s honestly fantastic!

Spicy, fresh and delicious, a huge amount of food is produced in this country, which makes for a wonderful culinary tradition and almost everywhere you adventure here, you’ll get to enjoy seriously great meals.

With most Tunisian food containing either meat or fish, you’ll need to make sure you specify you don’t want either if you’re a vegetarian, but this is simple to do and most places are very happy to cater for non-meat and fish eaters I found.

Bread is a huge staple here (so non-gluten folk beware!) and spice is too, with homemade harissa being heaped on pretty much every meal… much to my delight!

Most meals are a few course long – soup, then salad, then main, then fruits, the tea and cakes! – and you’ll quickly learn Tunisian meal sizes are not small, so you have been warned!

As a majority Muslim country, alcohol is not commonly served in Tunisia and most meals are accompanied by water and finished with sweet tea.

Alcohol is not easy to find across the country, but can be sourced in tourist-orientated restaurants and hotels, which are found in most of the major towns and cities.

Tourist-dominated areas, as such as the resort of Hammamet, have lots of hotels with bars for alcohol-seeking holiday makers.

You can’t drink the tap water in Tunisia, but bringing a Water To-Go bottle with you, will allow you too safely!

Learn more about these amazing water filter travel products here .

Just enter your email address below and I'll send it to you for FREE!

Information will be sent to the email provided above

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, my top travel Tunisia tips!

If you’re looking to get off the beaten track in North Africa and away from the tourist crowds of Egypt and Morocco, then this country is for you!

Have any questions about travel in Tunisia still?

Then don’t hesitate to drop them into the comments box below and I’ll get back to you…

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

2 thoughts on “ 11 Top Tips When You Travel Tunisia: Key Things to Know Before You Go! ”

Such a remarkable country. Thanks for all the tops and great images! Definitely going to add it to my bucket list. Safe travels 😉 Donovan

Ah so fab to hear this Donovan! Defo get Tunisia on your bucket list! Happy travels and best wishes, Steph 🙂

Other destinations

36.852558 10.323461 1 Carthage — Phoenician colony, biggest trade metropolis of the antique world; famously razed by the Romans; remnants now encased in a museum; site easily reached by train from Tunis
33.7837 10.8833 2 Djerba — a Mediterranean island in the south which is popular with sun-seekers, and home to a historic synagogue that is one of the last remaining active ones in the Arab world
36.423333 9.220278 3 Dougga — impressive ruins of a remote Roman city
35.3 10.716667 4 El Jem — one of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world
33.01696 9.09946 5 Jebil National Park — a large Saharan National Park with impressive dunes and rock formations
36.946389 11.099167 6 Kerkouane — remnants of the sole untouched Punic settlement which is a UNESCO World Heritage site
33.008603 9.616217 7 Ksar Ghilane — on the edge of the sand desert, the saharan oasis known for its hot spring and old roman fort
33.542639 9.966806 8 Matmata — berber village of cave abodes, where Star Wars ' Tatooine was set
34.319444 8.401389 9 Metlaoui — get aboard the restored Red Lizard vintage train snaking through scenic gorges and hills
35.229722 9.129444 10 Sufetula ( Sbeitla ) — a fairly well preserved Roman settlement in the mid-west area of Tunisia
32.933333 10.45 11 Tataouine — surrounded by various historic forts ( ksar ) and another filming location of Star Wars

Tunisia has a rich cultural history, ever since antiquity. The Carthaginian Empire, Rome's archenemy, was centred in Tunisia. Its capital, Carthage, is now a suburb of Tunis. Founded by Phoenician settlers from Tyre and Sidon (modern day Lebanon), Carthage was an ancient Mediterranean powerhouse. Three wars between Rome and Carthage (known as the Punic wars) were waged in the first few centuries before the birth of Christ. These culminated with the decimation of Carthage in 146 BCE by the Roman general Scipio, who is said to have wept at its destruction.

Between the destruction of ancient Carthage and the Arabic conquests of the 7th century, many cultures have made Tunisia their home. Carthage enjoyed a new period of prosperity under the Roman Empire until its collapse in the 5th century. Roman rule was replaced briefly by the Vandals, who made Carthage the capital of their kingdom. Carthage was then absorbed temporarily by the Byzantine Empire, until the rise of Islam in the 7th century.

After the dissipation of the Arabic Caliphates, the Ottoman Empire's Turkish Pashas ruled Tunisia. With the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Tunisia eventually fell under the sway of European Imperialism, as a French Protectorate, along with neighbouring Algeria.

Following independence from France 20 March 1956, President Habib Bourguiba established a strict one-party state. He dominated the country for 31 years, repressing Islamic fundamentalism and establishing rights for women unmatched by any other Arab nation. Bourghiba was quietly replaced in 1987 by Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. His forced resignation was carried out under the pretext that he was unfit to carry out his duties as president, due to his ailing mental and physical state as a result of extreme old age. Nonetheless, Bourghiba is still credited with the birth of the modern state of Tunisia, for which he fought his entire life. Ben Ali took a moderate, non-aligned stance in its foreign relations. Domestically, it sought to defuse rising pressure for a more open political society.

However, this changed in late 2010. Mohamed Bouazizi, a street vendor set himself on fire in protest of the confiscation of his wares and police harassment. This became the catalyst for the Tunisian Revolution, as well as the Arab Spring . After massive street protests, Ben Ali was forced out of power in January 2011. Since then, Tunisia has taken the path towards democratization of political and civil life.

Malta and Tunisia are discussing the commercial exploitation of the continental shelf between their countries, particularly for oil exploration.

Temperate in north with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers; desert in south.

Mountains in north; hot, dry central plain; semiarid south merges into the Sahara desert.

Public holidays

Independence Day , 20th March - a time when hotel rooms are completely booked. Plan accordingly.

Tourist information

Discover Tunisia website

Tunisia depends a lot on tourism; therefore, many people can visit the country without a visa.

Citizens of Algeria , Antigua and Barbuda , Argentina , Australia , Austria , Bahrain , Barbados , Belgium , Belize , Bermuda , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Brazil , British Virgin Islands , Brunei Darussalam , Bulgaria , Chile , China , Côte d'Ivoire , Croatia , Denmark , Dominica , Falkland Islands , Fiji , Finland , France , Gambia , Germany , Gibraltar , Greece , Guinea , Honduras , Hong Kong , Hungary , Iceland , Indonesia , Ireland , Italy , Japan , Kiribati , South Korea , Kuwait , Libya , Liechtenstein , Luxembourg , Macau , Malaysia , Mali , Malta , Mauritania , Mauritius , Mexico , Monaco , Montenegro , Montserrat , Morocco , Netherlands , New Zealand , Niger , North Macedonia , Norway , Oman , Poland , Portugal , Qatar , Romania , Russia , Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha , St. Kitts and Nevis , St. Lucia , St. Vincent and Grenadines , San Marino , Saudi Arabia , Senegal , Serbia , Seychelles , Singapore , Slovenia , Solomon Islands , Spain , Sweden , Switzerland , Turkey , United Arab Emirates , United Kingdom , United States and Vatican City do not require a visa to enter and stay for up to 3 months.

Citizens of Canada do not require a visa to enter and stay for up to 4 months.

If you're not a citizen of any of the countries listed above, you must apply for a visa in advance at a Tunisian embassy.

Visa application requirements

Visa requirements vary from country to country; however, you're normally required to submit the following to apply for a Tunisian visa:

A copy of your passport (must have a validity of more than six months)
Proof of your legal status in the country you're living in
A letter of invitation from your host in Tunisia (a hotel reservation will suffice)
The first page of your passport

The Tunisian embassy in the United States states that the Tunisian Ministry of the Interior vets all tourist visa applications and may take up to 21 days to process any visa.

Tunisair is the national airline of Tunisia.

From the airport, you can catch a taxi to the centre of Tunis (beware, meters may be rigged). They are best hailed from the 2nd floor departure hall to avoid getting swindled and should cost no more than 7 DT to downtown Tunis (Avenue Habib Bourguiba area) during the daytime, and no more than 10 DT, 21:00-05:00 (during which meter rates are 150% of daytime rates).
Alternatively, take bus #635 or #35 to Ave Habib Bourguiba for 0.47 DT. The bus comes roughly every half-hour and stops in front of the terminal.
The official airport Wi-Fi requires payment, but connection to the public "Lindo Cafe" network from a restaurant of the same name is free.
For cheap snacks and coffee/tea in place of overpriced airport fare, walk 3 minutes straight out of the airport's bottom floor (arrivals), past the fountain, through the parking lot, and you'll find a small convenience store and cafe selling items at local prices (espresso for 0.7 DT). It is next to a utilitarian car wash.

Other airports countrywide serve national and international flights including:

Charter flight companies can arrange flight and hotel, many that waiver a visa to enter. There are also some agencies that have ongoing tours for groups and private travellers.

Ferry services link Tunis to Malta , Trapani and Palermo ( Sicily , Italy ), Naples ( Italy ), Genoa ( Italy ) and Marseille ( France ). Travelling boats generally leave from La Goulette port (near Tunis). Other commercial ports are also available (Rades, Gabes, Sousse, Sfax, Zarzis)

In 2018 a direct train should have operated three times per week between Tunis and the Algerian city of Annaba . However as of 2022 it isn't.

Tunisair express is the domestic airline branched off of TunisAir. You can fly between Tunis and Tozeur, Djerba and Gabes, as well as flights to Malta and Napoli. French-only website, booking is available online or through agencies Tunisair Express .

Tunisian highways resemble US Interstate or the highways of Europe with a dual carriageway: A-1 runs from Tunis south heading to Sfax, A-4 runs from Tunis north heading to Bizerte, and A-3 runs from Tunis West heading to Oued Zarga. Tunisian highways speed limit is 110 km/h. It is possible to maintain that speed on that road very easily. The routes shown on some maps have a planned extension to Gabes then Ras Jedir (Libya Frontiers) in the South as of 2011-2014 and to Ghardimaou (Algerian Frontiers) in the West, but several years later. The remaining highways have single carriageways, with traffic round-abouts at major intersections, which follow the European model (those in the roundabout have the right of way). Consequently, on roads other than the A-1,4,3 it can be difficult to maintain an average speed of more than 75 km/h most of the time as the speed limit is 90 km/h. Almost all road signs are in Arabic and French.

Like most developing countries, road accidents are the leading cause of death and injury in Tunisia. Tunisians are aggressive, poorly skilled and discourteous drivers. They are unpredictable in their driving habits, jumping traffic lights, seldom signaling when changing lanes, often ignoring traffic lights and stop signs, driving at very high rates of speed regardless of the quality of the roads or condition of their vehicles, and stopping at almost any location even though it may block other cars or potentially cause an accident. Because of the lack of sidewalks, pedestrians walk on the roads often without regard for cars or their own safety. Sadly, Tunisians seldom secure their children in appropriate car seats and these tiny passengers often bear the brunt of most accidents.

Although police are visible at many major intersections, they seldom enforce traffic rules or stop bad drivers unless it is to solicit bribes.

People unfamiliar with driving in developing countries are best to use public transportation or hire a driver.

Driving in Tunis is further compounded by narrow streets and limited parking spots. To see the Medina of Tunis, it would be best to park some distance from the Medina, and take the light rail (called TGM) in from Marsa/Carthage, the green tramway (called Metro) downtown, or perhaps a taxi in from the nearer outskirts.

Rental cars are fairly easy to find, but somewhat expensive, at DT100 or so a day, for a medium-sized car such as a four-door Renault Clio.

Private taxis are reasonably priced even for long-distance travel, just be sure to agree on the fare before you set off. Sample fares for a four-seater are €40 for Tunis-Hammamet or €50 for Monastir-Hammamet. When taking the taxi within bigger towns such as Tunis, there are meters installed. Make sure it is started when you leave and in the corresponding mode (night, day, etc). A green light indicates that the taxi is already taken, a red that it is free.

Forus Taxi (smartphone app)

The national train company SNCFT runs modern and comfortable trains from Tunis south to Sousse , Sfax and Monastir . There are three classes of service, namely Grand confort (deluxe 1st), 1st and 2nd, and all are quite adequate. Example fares from Tunis to Sousse are DT12/10/6 (€6/5/3) in Grand/1st/2nd class. Although tickets are issued with wagon/seat numbers marked on it, that is largely ignored by locals. So if you are travelling with more people, try to get onboard quickly to find adjacent seats.

A good thing to do is to buy a carte bleue (blue card). It costs around DT20 for a week and you can travel all around the country using the banlieue (short distance train) and grande ligne (long distance). For the long distance you will have to make a reservation and pay a small fee (DT1,50 or so). These passes can also be bought to cover 10 or 14 days. There are rarely queues at the booking office and a little bit of French goes a long way. Trains go also to Tozeur and Gabes in the south where it is easy to access the Sahara and Ksour regions respectively. In some stations where the frequency of trains is small (e.g. Tozeur), the ticket booth will remain closed for most of the day and reopen around the time of the departure of the next train.

A light railway (called TGM) also connects Tunis northward to Carthage and La Marsa . Take this light railway system to Sidi Bou Said as well. One-way light railway tickets will cost approximately DT0.675.

Locals use louage or long-haul shared taxis where there is no train or bus. There are no timetables, but they wait in the louage station (which is generally near a train station if your destination is accessible by train) until 8 people turn up. The wait is never too long in major cities, most of the time less than half an hour. They are nearly as cheap as the walk up train fares and operate with fixed prices so you won't get scalped. e.g. Douz to Gabes (120 km) for 7 dinars. While louages are very cheap, they can also be stifling hot during the summer months (although the windows are left open during the ride and that helps!) and tourists may be hassled, if only rarely - most locals will keep to themselves. Furthermore, louages have the reputation to drive at a fast pace, and to be less safe than other transportation, so be aware of that.

Louage departures are very frequent; a louage departs as soon as the seats are filled. It is acceptable to pay for an empty seat to leave earlier.

All louage cars are white, with a side stripe showing the coverage area. Louages between major cities are recognizable by their red stripe, louages within region are recognizable by their blue stripe and louages serving rural areas are recognizable by their yellow strips (the Rural Louage can be yellow with blue stripes, or a van fully painted in brown color).

Long distance bus (called car ) [ dead link ] is also a safe and economic way to travel between major cities such as Tunis, Nabeul, Hammamet, etc. You will generally find a station in each major city offering many departures per day (every 30 minutes between Tunis and Hammamet). Some of the bus locally called "car comfort" offer higher standards (TV, air conditioner) at cheap prices. Hours can be found online.

Arabic is the official language of Tunisia.

Tunisian Arabic (also known as Tounsi ), the local vernacular, is spoken natively by almost everyone. It is most closely related to Maltese and has loanwords from French, Turkish, Italian, and so on. Tunisian Arabic is used primarily in informal and spoken communication and is not typically used for formal or written communication. If you don't know the local dialect, do not despair; all Tunisians learn Modern Standard Arabic at school, so you should have no problems communicating in major cities.

As is the case in Morocco and Algeria , French is widely spoken and is a second language for a lot of Tunisians. The language is held in high regard; French is used in many avenues such as business, government, and commerce. French is often used to transliterate Arabic words. For example, the name "Yusuf" is transliterated as "Youssef".

English is seldom spoken and is mainly spoken in tourist areas. Code-switching is a common practice in Tunisia.

History and archaeology

Although Tunisia is best known today for its beach resort holidays, the country has an amazing heritage with some exceptional archaeological remains to be explored.

Little remains of Carthage , but what does is relatively well presented compared to the rest of the ruins in Tunisia. This great city of the Phoenician and Punic periods dates from the 6 th century BC and was the base of a hugely powerful empire spanning the entire south Mediterranean. Its most famous general was Hannibal who crossed the Alps to battle the Romans . Hannibal suffered his first significant defeat at the Battle of Zama in 202 BC, and after over 50 years of being watched closely by Rome, Carthage was attacked in the 3 rd Punic War and completely destroyed. The city was redeveloped by the Romans a century later, and Carthage became the capital of the Roman province of Africa. What we see today are the remains of that era.

North of the desert

In the northwest, Jugurtha's Table is a large mesa with a moon-like surface and deep crevasses and is normally accessed fom the town of El Kef .

Tunisia has some of the most accessible, beautiful Saharan desert scenery. George Lucas fans will recognise the village of Matmata . The troglodyte dwellings here were used as the set for the young Luke Skywalker's home of Tatooine. The central western desert towns of Tozeur (with the film set of Mos Eisley ) and Douz are surrounded by beautiful Saharan dune scenery. Since 2009 the oasis Ksar Ghilane is accessible by tarmac road.

Beach resort holidays in Tunisia are extremely popular, especially with Europeans. The main resorts are on the east coast from La Goulette (close to Tunis ) south to Monastir . The southern island of Djerba is an alternative. Many water sport activities are widely available or you can just relax, taking advantage of the almost relentless sunny climate.

All of Tunisia can be proud of its beaches, you just have to know where to find the "undiscovered" ones. There is a beach not far from Sousse called Chott Meriam. The beach is clean with white sand and beautiful clean sea. The best beaches of Tunisia can be found in Kelilbia, Djerba, Ghar El-Melh, Rafrafbeach, Sidi El Mekki, Sounine, Sousse and Zarzis.

A few tour organizations organize day trips from Tunis to beaches in Bizerte and around the area for a price of about DT25 per person, with a meal included. These events can be found mainly on Facebook.

Treks into the desert are an increasingly popular part of a visit to Tunisia, and the towns of Douz and Tozeur are good starting points. Close to Tozeur is the small town of Metlaoui , and this is the starting point of a great train journey. The beautifully-restored wagons date from 1904, and the luxurious train takes you into a truly stunning desert mountain landscape. Agencies organizing such treks include Libre Espace Voyage and Au Coeur du Desert.

The national currency is the Tunisian dinar , denoted by the symbol " دينار " or " DT " (ISO code: TND ). Typical banknotes circulate in denominations of 5 (green), 10 (blue or brown), 20 (violet-red), 30 (orange) and 50 DT (green and purple).

Note : you are not allowed to take Tunisian dinars out of Tunisia. The Tunisian dinar is a non-convertible currency, i.e, you cannot buy it abroad.

The dinar is divided into 1000 millimes , with typical coins being 5 DT (Silver with copper insert), 2 DT, one dinar (large and silver in colour), 500 millimes (smaller, silver colour), 200, 100 and 50 millimes, (large brass), 20 and 10 millimes (smaller brass) and 5 millimes (small aluminium). It is prohibited to bring dinars in and out of Tunisia, so you have to change your money locally.

Prices are typically marked in dinars and milliemes, with a decimal point like: 5.600 or 24.000 or 0.360 sometimes with DT. Markets typically sell items by the kilogram. So tomatoes may have a sign "480" on them which means 480 millimes per kilo. Good cheese will be marked something like 12.400 DT or about US$7 a kilo. Most self-serve supermarkets expect you to put your purchases in the flimsy plastic bags they provide and then bring them to the nearby scales where a worker will weigh them and apply a price sticker.

You can withdraw local cash with a Mastercard or Visa card at many ATMs all over Tunisia.

Tunisian cuisine has similarities with Middle Eastern cuisine , and mainly builds on the Northern African Maghreb tradition, with couscous and marqa stews (similar to the Moroccan tajine ) forming the backbone of most meals. Distinguishing characteristics are the fiery harissa chili sauce, the heavy use of tiny olives which are abundant in the country, and the Tunisian tajine which, unlike the Moroccan dish of the same name, refers to a type of omelette-like pie prepared with a ragout of meat and/or vegetables mixed with herbs, legumes and even offal, enriched with eggs and cheese and baked in a deep pie dish until the eggs are just set, somewhat like an Italian frittata . Lamb forms the basis of most meat dishes and local seafood is plentiful. Pork and pork products are not widely available but can be found in some supermarkets and in some hotels in tourist areas.

Harissa : very hot spicy chili paste (sometimes made more mild with carrots or yogurt), served with bread and olive oil as a starter at almost any meal.
Shorba Frik : lamb soup
Coucha : shoulder of lamb cooked with turmeric and cayenne pepper
Khobz Tabouna (pronounce Khobz Taboona ): traditional oven baked bread
Brik (pronounce Breek ): very crispy thin pastry with a whole egg ( Brik à l'œuf ), parsley and onions and sometimes meat like minced lamb or tuna ( Brik au thon ). Very tasty as an inexpensive starter. Eat it very carefully with your fingers.
Berber Lamb : Lamb cooked with potatoes, carrots in a clay pot.
Merguez : small spicy sausages.
Salade tunisienne : lettuce, green pepper, tomato, onions, olives, radishes mixed with tuna.
Salade méchouia : puréed grilled vegetable salad seasoned (often with harissa ) and served with olive oil and sometimes tuna.
Fricassé : small fried sandwich with tuna, harissa, olives and olive oil.
Tunisian cakes : sweets related to Baklava.
Bambaloni : fried sweet donut-like cake served with sugar.
Tunisian "fast food": sandwiches, makloubs (folded pizzas), "libanais"...

Regrettably, Tunisia has a very underdeveloped restaurant culture, and most food prepared in restaurants, outside of Tunisian homes or souks is disappointingly bland and carelessly presented. These characteristics tend to apply across the price scale, though one can occasionally eat tasty couscous or "coucha" stew in some low-priced restaurants. One's best hope for good eating in Tunisia is to be invited as a guest in someone's home or eat at a food stall in a souk.

Being a progressive Muslim-majority country, alcohol availability is restricted (but not greatly) to certain licensed (and invariably more expensive) restaurants, resort areas and Magasin Général shops. Large department stores (Carrefour at Marsa/Carthage and Hammamet) and some supermarkets (e.g. Monoprix) sell beer and wine, and some local and imported hard liquors, except during Muslim holidays. Female travelers should be aware that, outside resort and areas of significant tourist concentration, they may find themselves with a beer in a smoky bar full of men drinking in a rather dedicated fashion. Some bars will refuse to admit women, others may ask for a passport to check nationality. Look around a bar before you decide to imbibe!

Beer : Celtia is the popular local brand, but some places also carry imported pilsner beers. Locally brewed Löwenbräu is decent, and Heineken has entered in the Tunisian market in 2007. Celtia "En Pression" (On Tap) is good. Celestia is a non-alcoholic beer which is also popular.
Wine : Most places that serve alcohol will have Tunisian wine, which is quite good. Tunisian wine always was produced by French oenologists. Most of it was exported to France till the 1970s. Wine cooperatives were left and produce 80% of the wine which is served mostly to tourists. Since the privatisation of some parts of these cooperatives the international taste of wine entered the market in Tunisia. The small companies like Domaine Atlas, St. Augustin, Ceptunes etc. have successfully established the new generation of Tunisian wine. Importation of wine is extremely difficult because of very high taxes. Some high-end hotel restaurants can make French or Italian wines miraculously appear at a price.
Boukha : is a Tunisian spirit made from the distillation of figs.
Coffee : served strong in small cups. Tunisian cappuccino is also served strong in small cups. "Café crème" is available in many tourist areas and may even appear in an "American Cup". Local favorites include the capucin (espresso macchiato) and the direct (latte).
Tea : is generally taken after meals. Sometimes served with pine nuts floating in the tea.
Mint Tea : very sweet peppermint tea that is taken at any time of the day.

There are lots of fine hotels in Tunisia. Many smaller hotels can be found in major cities, tucked into most roads. Hotel star ratings are not at par with European and US standards - a 4-star Tunisian hotel is the equivalent of a 3-star hotel elsewhere.

You can also rent a furnished apartment. Some private people offer their own apartments for rent especially in summer.

It is advisable to organise your accommodations online or by phone prior to your arrival. Other than pricier hotels, most accommodations don't seem to have a website. French would be handy when booking accommodations.

Finding work in Tunisia is difficult , even for Tunisian nationals. Tunisia has a high unemployment rate − 16.1% as of May 2023 − which, as obvious as it sounds, is as good as saying that there's not enough work for anyone. Most of Tunisia's unemployed are university graduates, and many Tunisians move abroad in search of better opportunities.

Unemployment has long been a problem successive Tunisian governments have dealt with, and it was one of the factors that ignited the Tunisian Revolution. Since the end of the revolution in 2011, the government has largely failed to create enough employment opportunities for Tunisia's university graduates. A major terrorist attack in 2015, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, dealt a big blow to the country's tourism industry.

One seldom manages life in the country effectively without knowing either Arabic, French, or both, so try to acquire the necessary language skills. Doing so will open many doors for you.

While pick-up restaurant and handyman jobs are common in other countries, these positions are much less likely to present themselves in Tunisia because of local competition. It's better to arrange for a job before coming to Tunisia.

Average wages in Tunisia are low compared to Western nations.

Tunisia has undergone a revolution and is in a contentious transitional period. While large-scale violence is not occurring, demonstrations do still happen from time to time, and are sometimes violent or broken up brutally. So consult your foreign office to check on current conditions before traveling to Tunisia, and do your best to steer clear of any large demonstrations that may occur while you are there.

In 2015, Islamist terrorists targeted tourists in Tunisia. In March 24 people were killed at the Bardo Museum in Tunis and in June a terrorist shot dead 39 tourists at a beach and a hotel in Sousse . For a time after the incident the UK government had recommended that its citizens leave Tunisia and not visit for anything other than essential travel. That advice has now been downgraded and the normal tourist coastal areas are considered safe. However, the border areas with Libya and in parts Algeria are still not safe areas.

Female travelers

It is apparently not considered rude for a man to stare at a woman's body which should indicate that modesty will attract less attention. Women can expect to be the target of frequent catcalls ("Gazelle" seems to be especially popular). If you travel as part of a couple, stay together as much as possible as the female traveller should not wander around on her own if she doesn't want to be pestered. The pestering usually amounts to nothing more than bizarre words and the occasional touch but it can be extremely persistent and annoying.

Tunisian women often wear outfits that would normally be seen on the streets of any major world city (tight jeans, slinky top), but they do so while showing traditional modesty by exposing virtually no skin. Arms are covered down to the wrists, collars go to the neck (cleavage is non-existent) and a head scarf may be worn. Western women visiting can minimize attention by selecting clothing that minimizes skin shown. V-necks are fine if another layer with a higher collar is worn underneath.

Note that in most towns, there are outdoor cafes around squares and on the streets, but they are only for men; even when accompanied by men, women are not welcome. Prices are much cheaper in these cafes than mixed gender cafes and tearooms found in Tunis.

Money and scams

Travellers report problems being pestered either to buy something or for other purposes. Persistence is a major complaint. Some say that a refusal often results in a bad reaction, "being hissed at" is one example, but those who have been advised to refuse politely with a smile rarely complain. "Non, Merci" is a very good response, with a smile. This seems to be borne out by the reports of sole female travellers who you would expect to receive the most attention, but who often report the least problems (from an admittedly small sample), perhaps because they are more cautious than accompanied females. It certainly seems to be the case that sole female sea bathers attract a good deal of unwelcome attention (even molestation) until a male friend arrives.

Theft of belongings, even from hotel rooms and room safes, is widely reported and the usual caveats apply - keep valuables in a secure place (e.g. supervised hotel safe deposit), do not flash too much cash, and keep wallets, purses and other desirable items where pick pockets cannot reach them. A good recommendation is only to carry enough cash for your immediate requirements and only one credit or bank card, provided you can be assured of the security of your reserves. Besides, most of the Automatic Bank-notes distributors are available and foreign credit cards are accepted. You can take cash (in equivalent Tunisian dinars) directly from your bank account with a small extra fee (bank transaction from €1 to €2).

Theft is also reported at airports. Keep your belongings under your direct supervision all the time.

When it's time to settle the bill in a Tunisian cafe or restaurant, it's advisable to ensure that you are presented with an actual paper, itemised copy of a bill before handing over any money. Frequently, your waiter will claim to have calculated your total amount due in their heads and this will always be more than you actually owe. Also, check prices on menus before ordering. Some establishments will claim to have no menus, they usually have wall mounted menus. Tunisian workers are extremely low paid (£300 per month approx) and will frequently try and take advantage of tourists without their wits around them.

Be aware that the export of Tunisian currency is forbidden and searches of wallets and purses can, and do, occur at Tunis airport. You are not permitted to take Tunisian currency out of the country, but the money exchanges at the airport will generally refuse to change your Tunisian currency to foreign currency. If you proceed through immigration and are found with more than DT20 - 30, you will be invited to return landside to change them. The problem is that this "invitation" will come after you have already been through passport control and handed in your exit card; therefore it is not practical. You will then be invited to hand some or all of your Tunisian money (which in any case cannot be spent in the duty free shops) to the uniformed official. Arguing will get you nowhere and a request for a receipt will be met with an outright refusal. Judging from the way the money is swiftly palmed, you will have almost certainly just paid a bribe.

Customs agents may approach you as soon as you have checked in, to ask how much foreign currency you have with you. You may then be escorted a private office where two or more agents count the money, note the amount, and then return it to you. Be sure to check that they have returned the correct amount as there are reports of substantial discrepancy between the amount you gave and the amount that was returned.

Tunisian dual nationals

Tunisia has recognised multiple citizenship since 1975.

If you are a Tunisian citizen – being a dual citizen of Tunisia, having a Tunisian parent, or being a naturalised citizen – possessing another passport will not grant you consular access and protection in the event you get detained or arrested.

Stay healthy

Health care

Tunisia, especially in tourist destinations and major cities, has hospitals of international standard. The quality of medical care is generally better and more accessible in the capital Tunis and other major cities. Public health services in the larger cities are reasonably functional, but often suffer from a lack of resources.

There are several private clinics of international standard in the Tunisian capital and tourist centres. Private clinics operate in a hospital-like manner and perform a wide range of procedures. The availability of specialised health care services can be limited. International clinics are staffed by English-speaking doctors, but other staff, especially on the public side, often speak only Arabic or French. Ambulance services are limited outside urban areas.

A few clinics in the capital Tunis include Clinique Internationale Hannibal, Les Cliniques El Manar, Clinique Saint Augustin and Polyclinique Les Berges du Lac.

Dental care in Tunis is provided by DENTYSS (Montplaisir).

In Soussé, some hotels have their own doctors who will make medical visits if necessary. Other clinics in the town include Clinique Essalem and Clinique Les Oliviers.There is also a private clinic in Hammamet, Polyclinique Hammamet.

For more information on public health care prices, visit the Tunisian Ministry of Health website in French. Prices should be verified separately on the spot.

It is highly recommended that you have comprehensive travel insurance when travelling to Tunisia. Without insurance, medical fees can often be quite high. Health care providers often require a cash advance. Most places do not accept payment commitments from certain insurance companies, and only some accept credit cards.

Pharmacies in Tunisia are easy to find and are usually open late. The contact details of the pharmacy on duty can often be found on the doors or windows of pharmacies.

Sunburn - Please remember that the sun is frequently your biggest enemy and frequently apply a high (factor 30 or better) sun screen. It is usually cheaper in your local super market than at the holiday destination.
Be careful what and where you eat and drink (remember the ice cubes too); diarrhea is a common complaint from incautious travellers. The tap water in the high-end Tunis-Carthage-Marsa area seems to be safe (2006).

Vaccinations

Always check with your doctor 4-8 weeks before traveling (the 4-8 weeks is important, as some vaccinations take weeks to become effective, and with polio you can be contagious for a while too):

Yellow fever is required for all travelers arriving from a yellow-fever-infected area in Africa or the Americas.
Hepatitis A is usually recommended Two Havrix injections, given 6 months apart, provide 10 years of Hep A protection
Hepatitis B - Highly recommended if likely to have intimate contact with locals or if visiting for more than 6 months.

Tunisia is a Muslim-majority country, and one should be mindful of the dress code depending on the region. Whilst a lot of skin (even topless) is tolerated on beaches and within hotel complexes, a modest amount of exposed skin may be frowned upon outside these areas. That said, the country is also home to long-established Christian and Jewish minorities who are free to practice their religions, but may not proselytize to Muslims.

Be aware that the further south one travels, the more conservative Tunisia becomes. While most women wear western-style clothing in the Capital (which is a mix of Mediterranean, European and Middle Eastern cultures), Southern Tunisia is more conservative and far more traditional.

At least one Tunisian tourist website says that after the revolution the 2011 Ramadan was more strictly observed, and the same for the following years. For three days at the end of July 2012, the vast majority of shops were closed during the day, although the Tunis medina was mostly open. Virtually all of the restaurants were closed. Beyond a few tourists drinking coke, not a single person was eating or drinking during the day, even at the touristy cafes at Sidi Bou Said.

In Tunis, on the Ave Habib Bourgiba, all of the cafes had their tables put away until after iftar (the breaking of the fast) at sunset, around 19:30. After that many people were out, and you could order food at some cafes, and coffee and desserts at others. Just before the iftar, Ave Habib Bourgiba is completely devoid of life and other-wordly. At smaller cafes, like 3 Etoiles on Rue Mustapha M'Barek, you can see families and men sitting around tables full of food, waiting for sunset.

At night, though, the medina comes alive - huge crowds are out and throng the street, which is definitely something to experience! Shops and supermarkets are often open till midnight.

Be prepared for a somewhat unique experience if you choose to visit Tunisia during Ramadan. During the daylight hours, eat and drink (even water), very discreetly. Buy bread and focaccia from the street vendors in the evening for lunch the next day, or find one of the local shops that is still open to buy something to tide you over. Virtually no one drinks alcohol, and your best bet (at least in Tunis) might be the Hotel Africa.

Public telephones are available in all towns and cities and in most villages under either the name of Publitel or Taxiphone - in cities simply look around - there is at least one on every street. International calls tend to be quite expensive (DT 1,000/minute to call anywhere in the EU). There are three mobile GSM operators, private Ooredoo , private Orange , Tunisia state-owned Tunisie Telecom all offering wide mobile coverage (including some oasis in the Sahara). Rates tend to be quite low for domestic calls, but very high for international calls (around DT 1,500/minute). Ask for a carte prépayée for a prepaid SIM card. Orange in July 2016 was offering 2 for 1 packs (30 mins + 500mb for a month for DT2.5) and free SIM cards for tourists entering in Tunis airport.

Emergency Call

197 Police emergency number - general emergency
198 Health emergency number - Ambulance SAMU
1200 Telephone information

Public internet access is available in many cities and towns, usually using the Publinet logo. Look for a large purple sign with the Publinet logo. Access is usually 0.8DT/hour, and speeds tend to be quite low (1024 kbit/s is the norm in Sousse and 4096 in Tunis ). Home internet (ADSL) is not as expensive as it used to be, you can have 1 year ADSL of 4096 kbps speed, for just DT400 per year. You can also have 3G internet access through any cell phone carriers (Tunisie Telecom, Orange Tunisia or Tunisiana),FTP and peer-to-peer access is available anywhere in Tunisia, there is no access restriction by the government anymore. USB keys for internet are rather popular and can be found for varying periods, even for short stays.

La Poste Tunisienne is quite efficient and fast. Post restante is offered in certain (bigger) offices. A stamp for international letters costs DT 0,600.

Rapide Post is the Poste's service for sending mail and packages quickly. Once a Rapide Post package enters the US it is handled by FedEx. It is the best and most secure way to send things in Tunisia.

Has custom banner
Has mapframe
Maps with non-default alignment
Maps with non-default size
Has map markers
Articles with dead external links
Has caution box
Has caution box with out of date warning
Outline countries
Outline articles
Country articles
North Africa
All destination articles
Has Geo parameter
Pages using the Kartographer extension

Tunisia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Tunisia.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil
Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Leishmaniasis

Sand fly bite
Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Tunisia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Tunisia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Tunisia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Tunisia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Tunisia may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Tunisia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Tunisia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

Adobe PDF file
Microsoft PowerPoint file
Microsoft Word file
Microsoft Excel file
Audio/Video file
Apple Quicktime file
RealPlayer file
Zip Archive file

International
Food and Drink
Places of Interest
Sustainable
What's new
Celebrating People
Hall of Frame
Responsible Tourism
MP on my Mind
MP Wellness

A Guide To Tunisia In North Africa: Places To Visit, Things To Do, And More

Known for its archaeological site of Carthage dating back to the 9 th century BCE, ancient architecture, souqs and seashore, Tunisia is a prime destination for a sun-and-sand holiday on the Mediterranean coast. The Arab , Berber, Jewish and European populations have all left their mark on the culture of the country, not least in the food which primarily consists of vegetables, cereals, legumes, lamb, chicken or beef, a plethora of aromatic spices and herbs, and generous amounts of olive oil. Many of these dishes are spicy, enhanced with dollops of harissa , a mix of chilli peppers, garlic, caraway seeds and salt ground into a thick paste.

Tunisia’s mild and rainy winters, moderate autumns and springs, and hot summers make it an ideal destination at any time of the year but we recommend going in April/May and October/November due to the pleasant weather at that time. Here’s a guide to travelling to this North African gem.

Places To Visit

El Jem (or El Djem) is one of the largest Roman amphitheatres ever built

The Medina of Tunis

This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains some 700 monuments, including palaces, mosques, mausoleums, madrasas and fountains dating from the Almohad and the Hafsid periods. It's home to numerous souqs selling everything from shoes to shisha pipes, as well as bustling cafés, artisans’ workshops and residential areas. The architecture has been built to suit the local climate with narrow streets that are cool in summer and warm in winter. Walk down the Rue Sidi Ben Arous, the Rue Dar El Jeld, Rue du Pacha and Rue Tourbet El Bey to take in the ambience of this bustling place. Most shops close on Sundays, and many close on Friday afternoons.

The Amphitheatre of El Jem

Located in the city of El Jem (or El Djem), this is one of the largest Roman amphitheatres ever built. Designed to seat a whopping crowd of 35,000 people, El Jem is both the largest and the best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in Africa today. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built entirely of stone blocks with no foundations. The south side of the amphitheatre is the most intact, allowing a sense of how the seats swept down from the upper tiers to the marble-walled arena. It’s also possible to explore the two long underground passageways that were used to hold animals and gladiators in their last moments before they were thrust into the arena to provide entertainment for the masses.

The cliff-top village of Sidi Bou Said is one of the prettiest spots in Tunisia

The Great Mosque of Kairouan

This UNESCO World Heritage is 71km from El Jem and was founded by the Umayyads around 670 AD. Considered the fourth holiest site in Islam after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem, the mosque is the oldest Muslim place of worship in Africa . It was built in a range of architectural styles influenced by pre-Islamic, Roman and Byzantine civilisations. Also known as the Uqba Mosque, it stands at the nexus of 15 different thoroughfares in the centre of the country between the mountains and the sea. Within it is a prayer room with 17 naves supported by carved columns, as well as a finely decorated mihrab . Non-Muslims are not allowed inside the prayer room but can glimpse it from just outside the doors. The exterior of the complex has a decorated flagstone courtyard and a towering, 32m minaret, one of the city’s highest structures.

Sidi Bou Said

With its distinctive blue-and-white colour scheme, cobbled streets and azure waters, the cliff-top village of Sidi Bou Said is one of the prettiest spots in Tunisia. Named after a 13 th -century Sufi saint, its distinctive architecture is a mix of the Ottoman and the Andalusian, a result of the influx of Spanish Muslims in the 16 th century. The ruins of Punic and Roman structures can be seen nearby at the Carthage Archaeological Park. The most impressive of these are the Antonine Baths built under Emperor Hadrian and completed during the reign of Antoninus Pius in the 2 nd century AD.

Sousse Archaeological Museum

Located inside an 11 th -century kasbah , this museum showcases an extraordinary collection of 2 nd - and 3 rd -century Roman mosaics. Most of these embellished the buildings in ancient Byzacium, the site on which Sousse now stands, and depict scenes from daily life. Highlights include a richly coloured mosaic of Neptune standing in his chariot, drawn by two hippocamps, and another depicting Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, riding in a satyr-driven chariot pulled by tigers. Also notable are a mosaic of the head of an ocean god that originally decorated the Baths of Themetra at Chott Meriem near Sousse, two huge hunting mosaics in the rear gallery and a Byzantine-era mosaic-covered baptismal font from El Gaalla.

Things To Do

Lounge on hammamet beach.

One of the best beaches in Tunisia can be found in Hammamet. As a rule, hotels have their own private sections, but the parts that are accessible to non-guests also have soft and golden sands where you can sunbathe and swim to your heart’s content. If you want to escape the crowds, head out beyond Port Yasmine to the near-deserted, wilder stretches of sand. While you’re here, also check out the Kasbah, a square fortress constructed in the 9 th century. Stroll the ramparts for sweeping views over the tangled lanes of the medina and watch the waves roll in to the beach.

Camp in the Desert

The Grand Erg Oriental is a large erg (field of sand dunes) in the Sahara Desert. The vast dune sea stretches for approximately 600km between Algeria and Tunisia and 200km from north to south. 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 as they will give you the chance to marvel at unspoiled starscapes and witness the magnificent colours of sunrise and sunset. In between the endless peaks and valleys of sand, one can also find verdant oases, rocky mountains and unexpected wildlife.

Birdwatch at Ichkeul National Park

Consisting of mountains, wetlands and the vast expanse of Lake Ichkeul, this park is 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 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. The national park also provides a sanctuary for more than 200 animal species (like wild boars, jackals, mongooses, porcupines, foxes and otters) and 500 plant species. Follow the path uphill to the Ecomusée, which has stunning views across the lake from both sides of the ridge it sits on. From here, you can walk right to look down around the headland to bring you back to the parking (a pleasant 30-minute stroll), or turn left to hike to a small series of caves (at least two hours round trip). There are also several birdwatching towers.

The troglodyte settlement of Matmata is an attractive destination for "Star Wars" fans

May the Force be with you in Matmata

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. The troglodyte structures are created by digging a large pit in the ground. Around the perimeter of this pit, artificial caves are then dug to be used as rooms, with some homes consisting of multiple pits that are connected by trench-like passageways. Many of these underground houses are visible from the main road, while others require some off-roading. Some are abandoned while others have been converted into souvenir stores and cafés. Don’t miss a trip to the Hotel Sidi Driss which was used as the location for Luke Skywalker’s childhood home on Tatooine in the original 1977 movie.

Visit the Djerba Crocodile Farm

Head to the laid-back vibes of Djerba Island where you will come face-to-face with over 400 Nile crocodiles at Djerba Explore—a complex which also houses a museum of Islamic art and a heritage village. Various footbridges overhang the ponds, which are lined with palm trees, papyrus and other exotic plants, and allow visitors to discover the environment and way of life of these reptilian animals. Try to attend a feeding session by the park staff.

Where To Stay

In Tunis, consider the Adam Hotel Suites and Mövenpick Hotel du Lac Tunis for luxury stays; the El Patio Courtyard House and Hôtel Tiba for budget stays; and the Nomads Hostel and Auberge El Medina for those who are backpacking.

Getting There

Fly from any major Indian city to Tunis–Carthage International Airport (TUN) via Cairo, Doha, Istanbul or any other connecting airport. Indian citizens require a tourist visa to travel to Tunisia so contact the Embassy of Tunisia on how to apply for one.

The Perfect 14 Days Itinerary for Tunisia

Tunisia is a fantastic destination and if you’re looking for an itinerary to follow, you came to the right place!

While many visit Morocco and Egypt, somehow Tunisia remains less explored.

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.

We’ve spent three weeks in Tunisia travelling independently and decided to write this perfect 14-day itinerary for Tunisia. But don’t worry, we have some suggestions if you wish to stay longer or shorter.

The country has so much to offer: gorgeous beaches, Mediterranean towns, exceptional Roman Ruins, islands, Star Wars Movie sets, the Sahara desert, great food, honest and friendly people, and great infrastructure, so getting from A to B is easy.

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

DAY 1: TUNIS

The capital city of Tunisia is a bustling city that combines modern and traditional. The best place to stay on your first visit is the medina so you can explore it. You can choose to stay in the new city at the end of your trip.

The Tunis Medina dates from the 7th century when it was built around the Zitouna Mosque.

Don’t miss the souks, especially on Friday/Saturday mornings. And, if you’re after some great views, then head up to the Cafe Panorama and enjoy a coffee or tea while you’re there.

And for a delicious lunch in the medina, stop by Restaurant The Ben Arous. You could spend a lot of time strolling through the maze of the medina with incredible doors and shops.

Read our post on the top 5 experiences of Tunis Medina.

Another highlight is the Bardo Museum, Africa’s second-biggest museum.

The museum also boasts one of the world’s most exquisite Roman mosaic collections. Definitely add this to your itinerary for Tunisia if you are an art lover. It’s closed on Monday.

Where to stay in Tunis

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.

Midrange : Dar Ben Gacem – A beautifully restored old Tunisian home, now a boutique hotel. 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 just to prepare you a hot pot of tea or coffee after a long day of exploring.

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.

DAY 2: TUNIS – CARTHAGE – SIDI BOU SAID

Spend the morning walking across the medina and catch the metro to Carthage (ticket is approx 0.700TND ($0.25).

This is the ancient city that once ruled a huge empire across the Mediterranean The entry ticket of 12 TND ($4.20) will get you into multiple sites.

I recommend starting at Antonine Baths and walking from there to the Roman Villas (amazing mosaics), checking out the Theatre next door, and walking up to Byrsa hill with some epic views and museums.

There are other archeological sites in Tunisia, but this one should be on anyone’s itinerary for Tunisia as it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

From Carthage grab a BOLT (ride-sharing app) to get to Sidi Bou Said. This picturesque seaside town is famous for its white and blue architecture (very Greece-like), make sure you explore the small side streets where you lose the crowds.

There is a famous place on the main street, Rue Hédi Zarrouk to get a hot bambalouni (Tunisian hot doughnut).

It’s a blue, hole-in-the-wall stand and you can smell sugar as you approach it. You can’t miss it.

It’s the perfect place for an afternoon stroll or stays for sunset @Cafe Des Delices.

DAY 3: TUNIS TO SOUSSE

Distance: 147 km (1 hour 50 mins journey time in car)

This morning head to the Louage Station Moncef Bey to catch a louage to Sousse (11.9 TND or $4.20). This 14-day itinerary for Tunisia is based on using public transport – for us, louage was the fastest option.

LOUAGE is essentially a shared taxi, a van that fits 8 passengers, and once full it departs from the station for the destination. More about that further below.

(You could also head to Monastir directly and spend the night there at Marina Cap Appart Hotel , explore the town, and then return to Sousse the next day).

It’s only a 15 min louage ride away, a ticket is 2.25 TND and they depart regularly.

Sousse can feel pretty touristy at times but the medina is nice although it mostly feels like a market. The Ribat (fortress) is worth visiting and you can stroll down to the beach. You might choose to stay in the medina.

We stayed at Hotel Paris, a comfortable budget option located in the medina.

For breakfast get some coffee from Beanery Cafe and pastries from the amazing french bakery just around the corner (across the entrance to the Institute of Arts) and have lunch at Restaurant du Peuple – an amazing set lunch menu not to be missed.

You can also choose to stay at one of the nice resorts along the beach in Sousse. I recommend either the Sousse Pearl Marriott Resort or Mövenpick Resort & Marine Spa .

DAY 4: DAY TRIP TO MONASTIR AND EL JEM

Distance: Sousse to Monastir 22 km (25-30 mins journey time in car)

Distance: Monastir to El Jem 73km (1 hour journey time in car)

Only 30 minutes away Monastir is an easy day trip from Sousse (ticket for louage is 2.25 TND). We actually spent a few nights here as we got a great deal at the marina, staying at Marina Cap Appart Hotel. It was a nice place to chill for a few days.

You can walk from the station to the Ribat which is well restored. Across from the ribat is the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba containing the remains of former president Habib Bourguiba, the father of Tunisian independence and the former president.

Don’t miss the picturesque marina only a short walk from the Ribat.

Afternoon in El Jem

Catch a louage back to Sousse and head down to El Jem. The louage ticket is 5.9 TND from Sousse to El Jem, allowing one hour journey time.

This was one of our absolute highlights of Tunisia – an ancient amphitheatre built by the Romans in 238AD. This is the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in Africa and it was designed to seat 35,000 people. This must be on anyone’s itinerary for Tunisia.

Entry is 12 TND each and be ready to be blown away!

For more detailed information and tips, read our post about how to get to El Jem in Tunisia using local transport.

Travelling to a country with a different currency? Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay in local currency with a Wise Card . We love this card; it has saved us so much in fees.

DAY 5: SOUSSE TO TATAOUINE

Distance: 405 km (5 hours 30 mins journey time in car)

A travel day to the south. Take a louage from Sousse to Medenine first. The price is 23.5 TND ($8.20), journey time is about 5.5 hours, including two brief bathroom stops and a 25 min stop for lunch.

Change to a different louage at Medenine station heading to Tataouine. The ticket is 3.65 TND ($1.30), journey time is 45 minutes.

Don’t miss the patisseries in Tataouine that have the special: Cornes de Gazzelle (crescent-shaped cookies filled with almond filling then fried in oil and soaked in honey)

Overnight at Auberge Alferdaous , a good budget option located in the centre of Tataouine .

The owner is a great guy, has fantastic English, and can give you some good tips for exploring the area.

DAY 6: VISIT KSAR OULED AND MOVE TO CHENINI

Distance: Tataouine to Chenini 18 km (25 mins journey time in car)

Grab a cheap and easy breakfast in a bakery and head out (best to grab a taxi for 20 TND) to Ksar Ouled.

Alternatively, you can take louage for around 2.5 TND each, but it does take time to fill up with passengers here. However, if you have the time, it’s a cheap option.

This 15th-century granary is not to be missed. Not only because it was a set from Star Wars movies, but because it’s truly stunning.

You probably won’t need more than an hour here so it’s worth asking the taxi to wait or you can catch a louage back to Tataouine.

Grab lunch in Tataouine (I recommend Restaurant Sindbad for a good lunch menu) and then head out to Chenini.

It’s only about 20 minutes ride and the scenery is spectacular. We have stayed at Residence Kenza for another unique stay – in a cave. It was really cosy and had incredible views.

Chenini is a small village, part of it is an abandoned Berber stone village that you can stroll through on top of the hill.

There is a mosque on top of the hill and don’t miss the sunset or sunrise over the valley.

DAY 7: CHENINI TO DJERBA

Distance: 143 km (2 hours journey time in car)

Breakfast in Chenini, and then walk down the hill to catch a louage to Tataouine again. From here there are direct vans to Djerba.

The journey to Djerba was actually really quick and we had time to grab lunch once we arrived in Djerba near the louage station – Restaurant Central Djerba .

We took a taxi after a wonderful lunch of chicken and couscous (highly recommended) to our accommodation and checked in to enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

We treated ourselves in Djerba and found fantastic online rates (during late November) with Booking.com at Ulysse Palace Djerba Resort.

The resort is located approximately 9km from the centre of Djerba, however, private taxis are very affordable. We paid just a few dollars from Djerba directly to our resort (all taxis are metered).

If you’re looking for a good budget option in the heart of Djerba, I recommend Hôtel Olympic Djerba.

DAY 8: DJERBA ISLAND

Djerba is a really popular summer destination if you arrive during the summer or shoulder season.

As we visited in the cooler months, the old medina in Houmt Souk was so nice to walk around. Check out the souks, street art, maybe have a coffee in the trendy El Fondouk .

Don’t miss out on Djerbhood (street art event) and El Ghriba Synagogue.

If you have a few more days to play with, you can extend your time here.

15 Most Popular Foods From Africa

20 Popular Breakfast Foods in Africa

DAY 9: DJERBA TO MATMATA (STAY IN STAR WARS HOTEL)

Distance: 130 km (2 hours 45 mins journey time in car – allow time to change transport at stations)

From Djerba, you can head back north or if you only had 9-10 days you could simply fly out of Djerba as there are direct flights to France and Germany.

So you could alter your itinerary for Tunisia and fly from here. We always find the most competitive prices for flights using Skyscanner .

Getting north is easy. Once again catch the louage to Gabes and from there we took two vans to the small town of Matmata.

This place is known for troglodytes – houses that were built completely underground to keep cool during hot summers and warm in winter.

One of them, Hotel Sidriss has been turned into a hotel after it was used as the film set for Star Wars Episode 4 movie.

The hotel is very basic with shared bathrooms, but if you are a Star Wars fan it’s really cool to stay here. You can also just come in for a visit.

They charge 3 TND (1 euro) per person to come inside and explore.

DAY 10: MATMATA TO TOZEUR

Distance: 215 km (3 hours 30 mins journey time in car – allow for time changing transport at station)

Another big day on the road, but plenty of scenery. You will need to change transport (Matmata Nouvelle a v Gabes).

Tozeur is a town surrounded by the Tunisian desert and it has a really unique feel. There are dates palms everywhere and the best dates come from here so make sure you buy some.

They’re incredibly affordable, only a couple of euros for 1kg.

The town architecture is another reason why Tozeur is so special, most buildings are decorated with small bricks, and especially the medina is a beautiful place to stroll through.

Today you should book your day trip for the next day – we booked it at the agency Au Coeur Du Desert across from our hotel, Residence El Arich .

The price quoted for a private 4WD with an English-speaking driver/guide for the day was 250 TND ($87).

The car can fit a maximum of 7 passengers, so if you have a group of people/friends to share the cost, it would considerably reduce the price per person.

We were happy to take the day trip with just the two of us and our driver/guide.

DAY 11: TOZEUR Day trip to Chebika – Tamerza – Mides – Ong Jmel

You can choose a half-day or full-day tour from Tozeur. We chose the full day one.

It included a stop at Chebika Oasis, where you visit an old village and walk down through the wadi and see the waterfall that brings life to this part of the desert.

Next is Tarmeza, another oasis village, and the gorgeous canyon at Mides. You stop for lunch and continue across the desert for some dune bashing in your 4WD to reach Mos Espa (Ong Jemel).

Travel to the Mos Espa film site, beautifully located amongst the Sahara dunes. Here, find the Pod-racing arena, the Mos Espa streets, Watto’s shop, the market, and Sebulba’s Café. Return to Tozeur at the end.

DAY 12: TOZEUR TO KAIROUAN

Distance: 295 km (4 hours 30 mins journey time in car)

Take a louage to Kairouan this morning, one of the holiest places of Islam in Tunisia and it was the first capital of the Maghreb.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it conceals several marvels, but the medina and the Great Mosque are not to be missed.

Overnight: The budget option is to stay at Chema chaabani.

I’d recommend a very comfortable stay at Hotel Continenta l if you can afford to spend a little more.

Get Connected with eSIM

Get connected easily on your travels—buy an eSIM! It 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!

Use our code: RACHEL5045 to get $3 off your first purchase!

DAY 13: KAIROUAN TO TUNIS

Distance: 165 km (2 hours 20 mins journey time in car)

Spend the morning exploring Kairouan and depart to Tunis later on. Once you arrive in the capital, you can visit the medina or head to the Bardo museum – whatever you didn’t get to do in Tunis last time.

A suggestion for a comfortable, newly renovated business hotel in central Tunis is Golf Royal Hotel .

We stayed here for our final few nights in Tunis and highly recommend it. Good prices, comfortable beds, fantastic breakfast, and great service.

🔥 Hot Tip: Book accommodation on Booking.com
🎟 Book your tickets online: We use Viator and GetYourGuide
🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
📸 Join a Group Tour: View our tours OR search Tourradar
✅ Get Connected with eSIM: Easy and affordable! View eSIM

DAY 14: TUNIS DEPARTURE DAY

Your itinerary for Tunisia ends in the capital. There is always plenty to do, see or eat in Tunis, depending on when your flight is.

Grab BOLT to the airport instead of a taxi, it will probably cost around 10-12 TND.

Travel Insurance for Tunisia

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

Things to know before you travel to Tunisia

Language: The official language is Arabic and French and English is not as common. Many people in the tourism industry speak Spanish and German as well.
Cafes are often highly men-dominated. You can look for Salon du The for cafes that are more mixed and usually nicer.
Food in Tunisia is amazing. Don’t miss our post about the 8 most popular Tunisian street foods to try while you’re here.
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 to get from A to B without any hassle.
Always keep loose change and coins handy for paying for taxis, bottled water, or street food snacks.
Internet connection isn’t great in Tunisia. I’d recommend picking up a SIM Card for your phone with one of the phone providers at the airport. There are several to choose from. I got an Orange SIM Card for free, then topped it up with 10GB for 20 TND (USD $7). You can get 2GB for 10 TND also, but if you’re travelling on my suggested itinerary for Tunisia, I’d recommend buying the larger package. Alternatively, the most convenient and affordable way to get connected in Tunisia is to buy this Tunisia eSIM Data Pack online.
Keep any foreign currency receipts or ATM currency withdrawal receipts on you. At the end of your trip to Tunisia, ensure you convert all of your Tunisian Dinar to Euros/USD 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.
Download Maps.me App on your phone, it’s a very useful offline map for Tunisia. I’d also recommend downloading an offline map of Tunisia on Google Maps as a backup to access maps if you cannot get online.
Download Arabic and French in your Google Translate App. You never know when you may need to use it.
To book any day trips or short multi-trips in Tunisia, we recommend Viator .

Travel Tips for Tunisia

We wrote helpful travel guides and tips for Tunisia—this country is so diverse!

When planning your trip, we recommend you read our 10 best tips for independent travellers to Tunisia . This post includes essential things to know that will make your travels here much smoother.

Our perfect 14-day itinerary for Tunisia is a detailed guide to visiting the best parts of the country.

We wrote this comprehensive post about how to visit El Jem Amphitheatre , what an incredible site!

Our post explaining 8 of the best street eats in Tunisia cannot be missed, and we recommend these top 5 things to do in Tunis Medina .

Tunisia features on our list of the 10 best food countries in Africa , offering some of the most popular African breakfast foods .

Our Food Map of Africa is interesting because it explains what they eat in all 54 nations.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Tunisia. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIM options in Tunisia.

If your travels in Tunisia are part of a larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries , offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM . The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

Want to travel in Tunisia with like-minded travellers? View the best deals on group adventures in Tunisia .

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation : Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo) & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours : We now offer Group Trips; check them out here . Alternatively, we recommend G Adventures OR Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips : GetYourGuide & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

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

🛄 What to Pack: Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good power bank . To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter: Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE & Revolut are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶 Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear and Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

Tasty Food Adventures

10 Most Popular Food in Bahamas

Top 10 Best Places to Eat on Magnetic Island

10 Most Popular Slovenian Foods

Top 20 Incredible Foods From Japan

See all Food Adventure blogs

Expert Travel Guides

Top Rated Vatican Tours

Visit Kuwait Towers - One of the most popular things to do in Kuwait

10 Best Things To Do in Kuwait

11 Amazing Historical Places of Mexico

2 Days in Budapest Itinerary – The Ideal Itinerary for Budapest in Hungary

See all our Travel Guides

Trusted Hints & Tips

The Best Debit Card for Australian Travellers (2024)

11 Tips How to Save Money to Travel the World

How to Find and Book Cheap Flights – 8 Tips

26 Best Travel Tips For Thailand (2024)

See all our expert Hints & Tips

Travel in Tunisia – 10 Best Tips for Independent Travellers

African Food Guide – 10 Best Food Countries in AFRICA

The Fascinating Medina in Tunis – 5 Unique Things To Do

14 comments . leave new.

thank you for sharing your trip to Tunisia it was definitely helpful.

Thank you, we’re really happy you found value in our post. Happy Travels!

Hi both I stumbled across this page while searching for info and tips on our upcoming trip to Tunisia in 2 months time This itinerary looks spot on, and touches all the things I wanted to see. We just decided to go louage rather than car rental, despite travelling with childre. One thing that I think would bring this page onto a completely new level of usefulness would be having rough estimates of times and costs involved in all the city to city trips: it’s great knowing that you can do Tozeur to Matmata (or the other way round) by louage, but it would even better to know roughly if it’s 2hr, 4hr, 6 hr, etc.. just to plan the itinerary! Anyway, thanks for all the tips and info, really great job!! Giovanni

Thanks for your feedback Giovanni, well noted. We hope you have a fantastic time in Tunisia 😉

Following up on my previous comment, can you remember how long it took you from Kairouan to Tunis (assuming by louage)? we plan to do it the other way round, but distances and times should be the same! thanks Giovanni

Yes, we took a louage taxi and the journey took about 2 hours. It was direct and they drive pretty fast on those roads.

Thanks for this info!! It was really helpful X About how much would you recommend to budget for a 9day trip (very roughly lol) ? Thanks Riya

Based on our trip, we roughly spent around 30 USD per night on accommodation (clean, comfortable rooms in good locations). Food is very affordable, so you can eat street food and great French pastries with coffee for only a dollar or two. It’s easy to find some great sit-down lunches and dinners for around $3.50 – 4.00 pp for a huge couscous with chicken/veg. Transport and getting around is affordable too, if you use Bolt app for short rides and louage (shared taxi) between cities and longer drives.

Roughly, we spent between USD $40-70 per day in total, and we’re two people. So yes, Tunisia can be a very affordable place to travel if you need to stick to a budget. Hope that helps 🙂

These two blogs I wrote below may be quite useful if you’re planning to travel to Tunisa.

– https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/10-best-tips-for-travel-in-tunisia/ – https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/street-food-tunisia-8-most-popular-eats/

Hello, thanks for your blog. I wanted yo ask you if the visits around Tozeur (oasis, canyon, mos espa) can be fone by our own means. With a normal car?

A second question is if djerba in winter for 2 days and 1 night is a place that we shall not miss. I am asking as it is relatively far.

Hi Carlos, I think you could do some self-driving in Tozeur with a normal car, but there are parts you need 4WD (I remember driving on sand when visiting oasis, the Star Wars city etc). As for Djerba, it will probably be quiet and cooler in winter, so might be worth to skip it. Hope that helps. 🙂

Hello, thanks for sharing the tips in your blog! I am travelling to Tunisia soon, and would like to ask if it’s possible to travel to Tatatouine straight after visiting El Jem? Would there be louages from Sousse to Tatatouine say 12pm onwards? By any chance do you know the opening hrs for louages?

We can’t answer for sure whether there would be louage from El Jem or Sousse to Tatouine around that time, but we imagine so. Sousse is a very busy hub or louage station for shared taxis going in all directions..and remember that the cars depart once they fill all seats. This is the primary way that all people move around in Tunisia. And, if you don’t have a car going all the way, perhaps there might be a car going to the city of Gabes, and then you could continue the next morning. Happy travels 🙂

Hello, I went through your blog and it was pretty detailed. I absolutely loved it. Just wanted to ask you if it’s possible to cover Djerba-Matmata-Tozuer in one day? Like starting from Djerba quite early, going to Matmata just to see the troglodytes up close and then head over to Tozeur for the night stay? I know it sounds very hectic, but we are very short of time. I was hoping it can be possible. We’ll not have any car with us, we are solely depending on public transport systems, preferably the louages. Thanks in advance!

Hi Shalini,

Yes, this journey would be possible – as you mentioned, you must get an early start to this day from Djerba. And, if you’re hoping to do a tour around Tozeur the following day (if you’re short on time), it may be an idea to book it online and get a confirmed trip (some suggestions in our blog to do this), or possibly call ahead and see if your hotel can arrange a guide/driver for you.

Happy Travels! This is such a fascinating area of Tunisia to explore 😉

Everything you need to know about traveling to Tunisia

Tunisia is one of those destinations that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. Berbers, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs have left their mark on this land bathed by the Mediterranean Sea and touched by the desert's light, where myths and legends from another era come to life. If, like the heroes and heroines of historical civilizations, you also dream of traveling to Tunisia to immerse yourself in the Maghreb sun, you're in the right place.

The present Tunisian Republic is located in North Africa, alongside the Atlas Mountains. About 40% of its surface corresponds to the Sahara Desert. The rest is occupied by its beaches, fertile fields, lush valleys, oases, villages, and more or less sizable urban centers, with Tunis, its capital, being the main city. The legendary capital of the Punic State, Carthage, founded in the 8th century BC, was situated within its territory. Throughout the following sections, we will provide you with everything you need to know before embarking on the adventure that will take you to this land and its other emblematic points.

Requirements for Traveling to Tunisia

The requirements for traveling to Tunisia are minimal. To enter the country, you will need a valid passport (an ID card is not accepted), preferably issued six months before the trip. Currently, presenting a Covid Certificate or any other health document is not mandatory, although it is recommended to have travel medical insurance for any eventualities that may arise during the trip. Depending on your country of origin you may need to apply for a visa to travel to Tunisia so make sure to check well in advance.

Is Traveling to Tunisia Safe?

Yes, traveling to Tunisia is safe. With a significant influx in tourism in recent years, necessary measures have been put in place to minimize risks for both the local population and travelers. General health conditions are good, and chances of assault or robbery are low, as Tunisia has a low crime rate. However, as a preventive measure, it is advised to exercise caution with personal belongings, especially during travel and in large cities (as in any other country in the world). Below, we provide some additional recommendations to ensure your vacation is as enjoyable and peaceful as possible. Below, we provide some additional recommendations to ensure your vacation is as enjoyable and peaceful as possible.

Recommendations for Traveling to Tunisia

While traveling to Tunisia is safe, it's still a good idea to consider some basic guidelines to avoid unnecessary risks. Before you go, make sure all your documentation is in order, including flight tickets. Once there, always follow the authorities' instructions and respect local rules. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against traveling to border areas with Algeria and Libya, including militarized zones (restricted access). They also suggest avoiding nighttime journeys outside urban areas. In the capital city of Tunis and major tourist sites like Mahdia, Hammamet, Monastir, the island of Djerba, or Sousse, you'll experience a high level of security during your stay.

Any other recommendations for traveling to Tunisia? Plan your trip well and think about the places you want to visit so you can book accommodations and excursions in advance. This will save you time and energy and ensure you don't miss out on anything. You'll need a special permit to access certain parts of the desert. Pack comfortable footwear and clothing for excursions (and don't forget your swimsuit!) Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate, warm in summer, mild in spring and autumn, and slightly cooler in winter – keep this in mind when packing. And if you want your vacation to be more sustainable , try to avoid single-use plastics whenever possible. Also, whenever you visit a location, whether it's a beach, a city, or another outdoor spot, make an effort to pick up any trash you generate, such as cigarette butts, food remnants, bags, or empty containers.

What to see in Tunisia

The Tunisian Republic is a land of contrasts – contrasts of time and space, natural contrasts, and contrasts between the different historical and cultural influences that unfold as you travel from North to South across its territory. From its paradisiacal beaches to its history-rich cities, refined monuments, and surreal landscapes, here are some suggestions on what to see in Tunisia to make the most of your stay.

Beaches of Tunisia

Port el kantaoui beaches.

Port El Kantaoui harbors some of Tunisia's most beautiful beaches. Regarded as the "Tunisian Marbella," the marina is the heart of a picturesque Mediterranean village built in 1979, accessed through a medieval-style gate. The water is clean and turquoise, with an astonishingly white and fine sand coastline that, like a preview of the desert, forms dunes in some areas of the beach. Surrounding it are several golf courses, charming seafront restaurants, shops selling clothing or local products, and narrow alleys worth exploring.

Here, you'll find the Iberostar Selection Diar El Andalous , a five-star All-Inclusive surrounded by gardens that look like something out of The Thousand and One Nights. In this luxurious hotel, featuring three outdoor pools and an indoor pool, you can relax and pamper yourself with a complete oriental cure of massages, relaxation baths, and saunas. If you desire more privacy and exclusivity, you'll find it in their Star Prestige areas. Adjacent to it is the Port El Kantaoui golf course, perfect for indulging in your favorite sport.

At Iberostar Selection Kantaoui Bay , three kilometers from Port El Kantaoui and 25 kilometers from Monastir Airport, you can savor the best local flavors at their gastronomic space Raihan, which, along with three other restaurants and four bars, offers a diverse and high-quality culinary experience. To inspire a connection between body and soul, the spa offers two hydrotherapy areas and a thalassotherapy center with a Turkish bath. Both hotels cater to all types of travelers, including families with young children, thanks to their Star Camp program.

Mahdia Beaches

The beaches of Mahdia, serene and seemingly empty even in the summer, are reminiscent of those in the Caribbean. Stretching over three kilometers, they form a distinct white line touched by the Mediterranean's impossible shades – calm and shallow in this area. Hammocks and parasols, restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as various water sports centers, can be found here. A lush oasis of tropical shrubs and palm trees completes this postcard-like image.

If you're eager to immerse yourself in authentic Arab culture while enjoying the comforts of a five-star hotel, the Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour is the ideal place to do so. With a private beach, located next to the old town of Mahdia, this family-oriented accommodation boasts elegant classical decor with modern touches. It houses a thalassotherapy center and a spa with a hammam, as well as a traditional cafe with shishas, the Café Maure, and comprehensive sports facilities where you can play tennis, pétanque, or football, engage in archery, or join a water aerobics session.

Playa de Sidi Akkour

Sidi Akkour is a paradisiacal beach located on the beautiful island of Djerba, known as the "island of golden sands" since the writer Gustave Flaubert gave it this nickname. In The Odyssey, Homer recounts how Ulysses retreated to rest in Djerba after the Trojan War, fleeing from the sirens' songs. You can do the same during your upcoming vacation while enjoying this dreamy beach. But be careful, because (according to legend) whoever tastes the strange honey-flavored fruits that grow on the island will never want to leave. It's worth escaping to the island part of Tunisia to try their dates and see if reality surpasses literature.

The Iberostar Mehari Djerba is located in Sidi Akkour, right on the beachfront. In its outdoor area, you'll find 50,000 m2 of gardens and palm groves. Its Beach Bar will allow you to experience having a drink with your toes in its golden sand. Their gastronomic selection includes restaurants with Arab, Mediterranean, and Oriental cuisine. With the Aliveness program, you can reconnect with your true self, immersing yourself in the nature around you and within yourself through yoga classes, meditation sessions, and other well-being activities.

Hammamet Beach

Hammamet is a traditional coastal city that has taken shape over the centuries, creating its unique landscape with white, rounded buildings, temples, fairytale-like houses, a port, and a souk. This is the mental image that comes to mind when you picture yourself on vacation in Tunisia. Then, over 14 kilometers of beaches will do the rest. Fine white sand and crystal-clear waters make this maritime enclave one of the most popular among travelers who come to Tunisia attracted by its nature.

This is the location of the Iberostar Averroes hotel, with rooms overlooking the beach and the color blue taking center stage, extending the energy of the sea to infinity. Its Mediterranean architecture, with details typical of the local aesthetic, will provide you with an immersive stay. From there, you can explore the medina of Hammamet and discover its bazaar or visit the nearby cities of Sousse and Monastir. Their spa offers treatments such as massages with natural seaweed, in addition to a Turkish bath. The culinary selection of their themed restaurant, Olivier, and their buffet, Laurier, includes typical Tunisian dishes like couscous, tajines, or stuffed briks .

Skanes Beach

Skanes Beach, near the ancient Phoenician settlement of Monastir, is one of the most highly regarded beaches in Tunisia. In this destination, you'll have everything at your fingertips. In addition to playing golf or diving, you can explore the region, which is home to the historic cities of Sousse, Mahdia, and Kairouan, the Ribat fortress built by the Arab people in the 8th century, and the mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, the hero of Tunisia's independence, born in Monastir.

On the beachfront of Skanes, you'll find the Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace hotel, a five-star accommodation ideal for families or couples, inviting you to stroll through its sumptuous gardens full of palm trees, taste local cuisine (it has a buffet with show cooking where healthy Arab delights take the spotlight), or disconnect and relax in its pools and Spa Sensations. The accommodation has a private beach area, as well as five function rooms for events. Among its Star Prestige areas, there's an exclusive solarium with Balinese beds for adults only.

Other places of interest in Tunisia

Tunis and carthage.

The best way to discover Tunis is to explore it on foot. The Medina district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hides a labyrinth of streets, souks, traditional shops, and mosques that will bring you closer to the most authentic Tunisian tradition. The Bardo Museum showcases the world's largest collection of mosaics, as well as other important archaeological artifacts. Bourguiba Avenue is the main artery of the modern city, where most luxury boutiques and official buildings are concentrated. In its port, La Goulette, you'll find traces of Turkish and Spanish influences. The Belvedere Park viewpoint offers a special panorama. From the capital, you can take a trip to the ruins of Carthage, founded by the Phoenicians in 814 BC, which still displays its beauty by the sea. The Roman villas, baths, and amphitheater will leave you amazed. Don't miss the Carthage Archaeological Museum, with jewels, utensils, and mosaics found during the excavation.

The holy city of Kairouan

Kairouan, also known as Kaïrouan or Cairuán, is located about 160 kilometers south of the capital. It is the fourth holiest city in the Islamic world, after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem. For this reason, it is home to numerous mosques, including the Great Mosque of Kairouan, the Three Doors Mosque, and the Barber's Mosque, where the mausoleum of a disciple of the prophet Muhammad "who acquired the habit of carrying three hairs from his master's beard" is located. The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988.

Its walled enclosure, built in the 11th century, has great historical and artistic value. It protects the Great Mosque, whose most precious treasure is the prayer hall, a forest of more than 400 columns of different architectural styles and origins that were transported from other places to the temple. In its exterior space, accessed through spectacular inlaid and ornamented doors, there is an extensive collection of carpets that cover the floor and chandeliers that illuminate during the night. Traveling to Tunisia will give you the opportunity to learn a bit more about the Muslim religion through its architecture.

Troglodyte houses of Chenini and Matmata

The troglodyte settlements of Chenini and Matmata emerged when to seek refuge from the heat and enemies in the past, Tunisian villages dug their houses into the rock of hills or the ground, creating an underground network of dwellings. Their provisions were stored in the so-called ksar, granaries built like fortresses to prevent theft. Some of them have been transformed into cafes and restaurants, tiny museums, craft workshops, and even accommodations. To travel from Chenini to Matmata, an arid area between the Northern beaches and the Southern desert, it's best to rent an off-road type car with or without a guide. A curious fact? Matmata was one of the chosen locations to shoot the first Star Wars movie in Tunisia, while Chenini appeared in The English Patient.

Hammamet, Sousse, and Monastir

Along the Tunisian coast, the towns of Hammamet, Sousse, and Monastir weave their colorful and bohemian presence together with some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. From the ribat (fortress) of Hammamet, you'll enjoy incredible views of the sea. Its open-air market is a spectacle for the senses, much like the terrace of the legendary café Bab Sidi Bouhdid, where you'll have the opportunity to savor mint tea or a delicious tajine prepared in the Tunisian style. In Sousse (or Susa), traditional whitewashed houses with domes that also face the beach stand out, along with the catacombs and the medina. In the ribat of Monastir, you'll find its famous minaret, which now houses the Islamic Art Center, where an astrolabe from the year 927 is preserved. Nearby, you'll discover the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba with its grand golden dome, a true marvel of funerary art.

Weather in Tunisia

Tunisia has a typically Mediterranean climate. This means that summers are usually hot (with high temperatures in the interior and the southern part of the country), and winters are mild. The weather becomes milder in spring and autumn: many people choose to travel to Tunisia between March and May or between September and December to enjoy pleasant temperatures. Generally, rainfall is concentrated during the cooler months of the year. In August, the average maximum temperature is 34ºC, while in winter, the average minimum is 16ºC. On August 5th, the hottest day of the year, temperatures range between 23ºC and 34ºC. On January 20th, the coldest day, temperatures vary from 8ºC to 16ºC.

In Tunisia, the desert meets the sea . If you want to spend your holidays on one of its beautiful beaches, enjoying good weather and plenty of sunshine, as well as taking excursions to explore its natural landscapes, culture, and history, we recommend doing so from spring to autumn, including the summer season.

Traveling to Tunisia with children

Are you thinking of traveling to Tunisia with children? A great plan to do together, especially if you're fans of the saga, is to explore the Star Wars galaxy in Tunisia. To do this, you'll need to head to Djerba from the mainland, where the desert landscapes and retrofuturistic architecture became the backdrop for much of the scenes in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. It's worth spending a few days on the island to give you the opportunity to visit all the film sets. Need more ideas? Stroll through Sidi Bou Said, the most charming village in Tunisia, where the little ones can stimulate their senses by looking at its colorful houses and craft stalls. Visit the Oasis of Chebika, a fantasy oasis full of plants, waterfalls, and natural wells. Spend the day at the beach doing water sports and then enjoy a typical dinner by the sea.

Iberostar hotels in Tunisia are designed to make all types of travelers feel welcome and cared for, including families with children, couples, and small groups. You'll find adapted rooms, as well as various indoor and outdoor pools with Aquafun areas, Star Camp zones, and many more facilities, so while they have fun, you can rest and enjoy your vacation, treating yourself to those moments of relaxation you deserve. Whoever you decide to travel to Tunisia with, this prodigious country in North Africa with a Mediterranean essence and Arab soul will welcome you with open arms.

Be inspired

Iberostar Hotels & Resorts is a leading hotel chain that is committed to developing a responsible tourism model, focused on caring for both people and the environment. It has more than 100 four- and five-star located in the most popular vacation destinations in Europe, Africa and America. As part of the Iberostar hotel portfolio, guests can enjoy beachfront hotels , city hotels and heritage hotels . In addition, there is the JOIA category, the highest level of luxury and excellence. Enjoy an all-inclusive holiday with your family, partner or friends at hotels in , Tenerife , on the Costa del Sol, Mexico , the Dominican Republic, Jamaica or Brazil . Experience the essence of the city at one of our hotels in Barcelona or Lima . Alternatively, immerse yourself in the history and tradition of destinations like Montenegro. The alliance between Iberostar and IHG excludes Iberostar’s interests in Cuba.

We use both internal and third-party cookies to optimise your visit and to analyse navigation habits with the purpose of improving and personalising our content and advertising. To continue navigating without deactivating cookies, please accept their use. + info.

Skip to main content
Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Tunisia travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: August 26, 2024 09:05 ET

Regional advisory - Avoid all travel

Aïn Draham
the area within 30 km of the border with Libya
Mghila, which extends into the governorate of Sidi Bouzid
the cordoned-off military zone south of the town of Remada in the governorate of Tataouine

Regional advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

the Delegation of Remada
Mount Orbata

Demonstrations, strikes and civil unrest

Demonstrations and strikes occur occasionally, particularly to denounce the deterioration of economic, political and social conditions in Tunisia. They sometimes lead to civil unrest and clashes with the security forces. Although demonstrations take place throughout the country, they are mainly concentrated in downtown Tunis.

Strikes in transportation and public services occur occasionnally. Rail, sea, air and public transport services could therefore be affected. There are reports of shortages of fuel and certain foodstuffs.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

There is a threat of terrorism.

On May 9, 2023, a shooting took place near the Ghriba synagogue on the island of Djerba, resulting in several casualties. This attack took place despite an increased presence of security forces as part of the annual Lag Ba'omer pilgrimage.

Terrorists have previously targeted resorts and tourist attractions, as well as government and military installations. Individuals suspected of terrorism or arms trafficking have been captured in various parts of the country, including Tunis. The presence of extremist groups and regional instability pose a threat to the safety of foreigners, religious sites and tourist facilities. Security forces are on constant alert and conduct anti-terrorist operations throughout the country to prevent attacks.

Despite the preventive efforts of security forces, terrorist acts could occur at any time. Targets could include :

government buildings
places of worship
airports and other transportation hubs and networks;
public places such as tourist attractions, stadiums, restaurants, bars, cafés, shopping malls, markets, hotels and other places frequented by foreigners.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be especially vigilant at:

sporting events
religious holidays
public celebrations
major political events, such as elections.

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Zones with military presence

The Tunisian authorities have designated certain areas as “ military operations zones ”, where the army patrols to counter terrorist threats and attacks. These zones mainly include the central-western mountain ranges in the governorates of Kasserine and Kef, including :

Mount Chaambi
Mount Mghila
Mount Selloum
Mount Sammama

Avoid all travel to fenced-off military zones such as the area south of the city of Remada, in the governorate of Tataouine. The Tunisian armed forces could arrest you if you enter without prior authorization.

Border regions

Due to the movement of suspected terrorist cell members, militants and smugglers between Tunisia and neighboring countries, the Tunisian government has increased the presence of its armed forces on the border with Algeria. However, the threat of cross-border terrorist activity remains, and attacks still target the Tunisian armed forces.

There is a risk of terrorist attacks and kidnappings along the Algerian border, particularly in the mountainous regions of the following governorates:

Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have been found in these areas. The Algerian and Tunisian armed forces carry out joint anti-terrorist operations on both sides of the border, notably in the governorates of Jendouba, Kasserine and Kef.

Deteriorating security conditions and the presence of terrorist groups in Libya continue to have an impact on the security situation along the border with Tunisia. There is a strong presence of Tunisian armed forces on the border with Libya, notably to control the passage of migrants to and from Libya, as well as from the Mediterranean Sea.

The border between Tunisia and Libya may close at any time for an indefinite period.

State of emergency

The state of emergency has been in effect in Tunisia since 2015 and is regularly extended due to the threat of terrorism.

Security forces have increased rights to:

conduct searches
make seizures
detain persons of interest
impose curfews

If you are traveling to a place where a state of emergency is in effect:

be aware that you may be subject to searches by security forces
always cooperate with military and police officers
carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
allow extra time to reach your destination
follow the instructions of local authorities
monitor local media for the latest information

Kidnappings

Although the risk is low, kidnappings may occur, particularly along border areas.

During your stay :

report any suspicious behavior to security forces
exercise caution at all times

Sports events

Sports events sometimes give rise to rowdy behavior and violent incidents.

Be careful if you attend sports events.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs occasionally, especially in tourist areas.

A rise in crimes of opportunity is also reported across the country and particularly in Tunis, including:

exercise caution
keep your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents in a secure place
don’t show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
avoid walking alone after dark
avoid isolated areas

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone can be subject to offensive verbal and sexual abuse and behaviour.

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons can be victims of discrimination, harassment and acts of violence based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sexual characteristics.

There are reports of 2SLGBTQI+ people being harassed online, particularly for taking part in events related to 2SLGBTQI+ issues. In some cases, their personal information is revealed on social media, where individuals call for violence against them.

Security forces sometimes carry out arbitrary arrests and illegal searches and use violence and blackmail to force people to hand over their phones and belongings. This information may be used as evidence in legal proceedings.

If you are a victim of violence or detained by local authorities due to your sexual orientation, gender identity or any other sexual characteristic, you should report it immediately to the Canadian Embassy in Tunisia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Fraud related to online shopping occurs in Tunisia.

There have been several reports of products ordered online, including on social media, which do not correspond to the description given. Individuals trying to obtain compensation face phone numbers that are no longer in service or online pages that no longer exist.

Avoid shopping on unencrypted websites
Beware of overly attractive business opportunities
Don't give your banking information to strangers

In some resorts, young Tunisians are looking to marry older Canadians either to enrich themselves or to come to Canada.

Keep in mind that you could be the victim of a scam if strangers or new acquaintances bring up the subject of marriage.

Overseas fraud

Road safety

Driving habits.

The number of road accidents is rising in Tunisia, despite awareness campaigns.

Roads are busy during the summer vacations, particularly between July and mid-September.

Many accidents are caused by drivers' dangerous behavior, including :

sudden lane changes
drinking and driving
driving at night without headlights
distractions
failure to comply with road signs

Bicycles, electric scooters and motorcycles are not always equipped with reflectors or headlights, and often zigzag between cars.

In some isolated areas, emergency services may be limited and response times may be longer.

Road conditions

Outside major cities, roads can be dangerous for various reasons, including :

uneven surfaces
lack of infrastructure maintenance
insufficient lighting

Pedestrians sometimes walk in the street due to the absence of sidewalks, and often weave in and out of cars to cross the street. Vehicles don't always stop at crosswalks or when the light is red at an intersection.

Police officers often intercept cars for inspection, especially rental cars.

If you drive in Tunisia :

always drive defensively
be very careful if you travel after dark
only use main roads and highways
fill your gas tank before you travel, especially if you're traveling to remote areas
avoid stopping in isolated areas

In remote areas, including the area south of Jebil National Park and in desert zones, cell phone reception is not always reliable and resources for obtaining assistance are limited.

Public transportation

Yellow taxis are generally available, but few are equipped with working seatbelts. You can hail a taxi on the street or order one via a mobile app that indicates the fare, which is usually higher.

Taxis generally only accept payment in cash.

City buses are crowded and regularly behind schedule. Crime, especially petty crime, can occur on board.

Petty crime, such as purse snatching, can occur on trains. Derailments and collisions occur every year.

Intercity trains and buses are considered more reliable, but safety standards may differ from those in Canada.

When using public transportation:

avoid storing bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat
always carry your valuables and identification with you

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Tunisian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Tunisia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Foreign Representatives in Canada
Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required Student visa: not required

If you wish to stay in Tunisia for more than 90 days, contact the nearest Tunisian embassy or consulate before your departure for information on visa requirements.

In you are already in Tunisia, go to a police station or the Ministry of the Interior.

Dual citizenship

Tunisian authorities may ask Canadians who also have Tunisian citizenship to present their Tunisian passport when entering and leaving the country. You may be questioned extensively as to why you are not traveling with your Tunisian passport.

If your Tunisian passport is no longer valid, contact the nearest Tunisian embassy or consulate.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Medical services and facilities

Medical services are generally adequate in major cities but may be limited in rural areas.

Doctors and hospitals generally require payment on the spot at the time of treatment, and may also ask for a deposit or payment in advance, depending on the type of consultation or treatment required.

Your private insurance may be accepted in certain clinics if they obtain a payment guarantee from your insurance company.

Medications available in Tunisia may differ from those available in Canada, and some may be difficult to find, especially in rural areas.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Those convicted of these offences are subject to heavy fines and prison sentences of up to life.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Religious proselytism

Religious proselytizing is prohibited.

This includes preaching, possessing or distributing religious literature or material.

Avoid engaging in religious activities that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values.

Tunisian law criminalizes sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be arrested because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sexual characteristics. They could also be arrested and face other charges such as:

public indecency
offence to public morality

Convicted offenders face fines and prison sentences ranging from six months to three years.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Tunisia.

You can drive in Tunisia with a valid Canadian driver's licence.

You should have an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Tunisia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Tunisia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

Child custody

A child born to a Tunisian mother or father can be considered by the Tunisian authorities as a Tunisian citizen, no matter where he or she was born and what other citizenship he or she has acquired.

In cases where one or more family members hold Tunisian citizenship, parents should consider the risks before their children travel to Tunisia, including that:

at the request of family members, Tunisian authorities can prevent children from leaving Tunisia (a procedure known as a “stop order”)
Canadian children who are identified as Tunisian citizens will be treated as Tunisian nationals

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Tunisia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Tunisia by an abducting parent:

act as quickly as you can
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Tunisia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Request emergency assistance

Imports and exports

Tunisian authorities strictly prohibit the import and/or export of certain goods, including :

narcotics and psychotropic products
second-hand goods
works of art and antiques
any product likely to offend public decency, health, public safety or state security

Special permits may be required for certain types of goods. You should consult the regulations in force and contact the Tunisian customs authorities before importing or exporting goods to or from Tunisia.

Prohibitions and restrictions – Tunisian Customs (in French and Arabic)

Dress and behaviour

The majority of the population is Muslim. Dress conservatively, and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending the local population.

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

Photography

Avoid taking pictures of military installations, government buildings and embassies. Ask permission before taking people's pictures.

The currency is the Tunisian dinar (TND).

It’s prohibited to import and export Tunisian dinars (TND).

ATMs are widely available in tourist areas and can be found in all major centres. Many establishments in urban and tourist areas accept credit cards.

Foreign currency declaration

Tunisian foreign exchange regulations are strict and complex.

There are restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency. You must declare all foreign currency in your possession equal to or superior to the equivalent of 20,000 TND:

upon arrival
upon departure

If you enter Tunisia with a sum exceeding 5,000 TND, you must declare the amount to airport customs so that the exceeding sum is not confiscated when you leave the country.

In the event of confiscation upon leaving, you must request a refund using a form available on the Tunisian customs website.

In addition, you will not be able to leave Tunisia with the equivalent of 30,000 TND or more, even if you declared it upon entry.

These rules apply to non-residents.

Residents of Tunisia may obtain a conversion allowance of up to 6000 TND in foreign currency per calendar year under certain conditions.

However, in order to leave the country as a resident with foreign currency in your possession, you must:

declare all foreign currency you are carrying
provide official proof to the customs authorities of the allowance obtained

If you’re travelling to Tunisia, you should:

familiarize yourself with the regulations before you travel
declare any foreign currency in your possession upon entry
keep your declaration until you leave
exchange foreign currency at recognized banks or exchange offices only
plan accordingly

Foreign currency declarations apply to:

traveller's cheques

Currency and exchange – Tunisian Customs (in French and Arabic only)

Tunisia is prone to various natural disasters, such as:

bad weather
sand and dust storms
earthquakes

Temperatures vary both geographically and seasonally. In the north, summers are hot and dry, and winters are rainy. In the south, the climate is semi-arid, and it can get very hot in the Sahara, especially in the summer. Between June and September, temperatures can exceed 40°C, and sand and dust storms are frequent.

Severe droughts can last for several years, reducing water supplies.

During dry periods:

always keep water supplies on hand

Rainy season

In northern Tunisia, the rainy season generally extends from October to May. In the south, rainfall is significantly less frequent due to the arid climate. In the winter, downpours can block roads.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Monitor local media for updates, including road conditions
Stay away from flooded areas
Monitor weather reports
Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Sand and dust storms

Sand and dust storms are common.

During a sand or dust storm :

stay indoors
keep windows closed
be prepared to modify, interrupt or cancel your trip at any time

Earthquakes

Although Tunisia is not located in a high-risk zone for earthquakes, small tremors do occasionally occur.

Earthquakes - What to do?

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

police: 197 / 193
medical assistance: 190
firefighters: 198

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Tunisia, in Tunis, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Warnings and insurance

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Western tunisia, including the tunisia-algeria border.

FCDO advises against all travel to:

the Chaambi Mountains National Park
Mount Salloum
Mount Sammamma
Mount Mghila

This is due to cross-border terrorist activity and operations by the Tunisian security forces.

In addition, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

areas north and west of the town of Ghardimaou in Jendouba Governorate, including El Feidja National Park
within 30km of the Tunisia-Algeria border in El Kef and Jendouba governorates, south of the town of Jendouba, including the archaeological site of Chemtou
Kasserine Governorate, including the town of Sbeitla
within 10km of the rest of the Tunisia-Algeria border south of Kasserine Governorate
within 10km of Mount Mghila
Mount Orbata

Southern Tunisia, including the Tunisia-Libya border

the militarised zone south of the towns of El Borma and Dhehiba
within 20km of the rest of the Tunisia-Libya border area north of Dhehiba
the town of Ben Guerdane and immediate surrounding area

This is due to cross-border terrorist activity and fighting in Libya.

In addition, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 75km of the Tunisia-Libya border, including Remada, El Borma and the town of Zarzis

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

women travellers
disabled travellers
LGBT+ travellers
solo and independent travel
volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

South Africa
Dominican Republic
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Netherlands
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Itineraries
Travel photography tips
Travel Tips
Weekend getaways
Unique Accommodations
Work together

No products in the basket.

Return to shop

Search for:

Itineraries , Tunisia

The ultimate road trip through south tunisia.

‘Impressive rock formations, endless white salt flats, lush green palm oases, vibrant Medinas, historic ksour and the irresistible vast sand dunes of the Sahara.’ In this article I’ll take you on a roadtrip through the surprisingly beautiful landscape of South Tunisia.

Tunisia doesn’t have the best reputation as a travel destination. The country is mainly labeled as one-sided with a focus on all-in beach holidays on the island Djerba. Until recently I thought the same way. About 15 years ago I traveled to Djerba with a friend. We didn’t have such a positive experience there, so I lost interest in visiting the country again.

In recent years, however, Tunisia has undergone a major evolution. I decided to give traveling to this destination a second chance. This time I did a road trip through South Tunisia together with the local tourist office and two fellow bloggers. Here I discovered the surprising beauty of the country, learned more about the deep-rooted culture and enjoyed the hospitality of the locals.

** disclaimer: this is a sponsored post but this does not alter the fact that i share my own honest experiences about this service. this post also contains affiliate links. that means we can receive a commission if you buy something that we really recommend. There are no extra costs you and it supports our blog. thank you. **

As you probably know, Tunisia is located in North Africa. It’s not a large country, but because it stretches from north to south, Tunisia has an extremely varied landscape consisting of beautiful Mediterranean beaches, lush countryside, rolling hills, impressive peaks of the Atlas Mountains, dried up salt lakes, mountain oases with palm tree forests and vast sand dunes that are part of the largest desert in the world, the Sahara.

Besides the impressive landscapes Tunisia also has a rich history that goes far back in time. Scattered throughout the country you’ll find traces dating back to the various rulerships that succeeded each other. Just think of some of the sights that have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, such as: Carthage, the amphitheater of El Djem, the Medina of Tunis and Sousse, Dougga, … But also lesser-known places exude history and authenticity. In the south of the country, you can immerse yourself completely in the ancient traditions of the Berber culture.

In short, Tunisia is an interesting destination for both nature and culture lovers. Unfortunately, these assets are not put in the spotlight quite enough and the country is pictures as a beach holiday resort. This, in combination with the political and economic difficulties that occurred in recent years that resulted in the Jasmine Revolution, ensured that Tunisia became a lesser popular holiday destination. Currently, the country is trying hard to overcome these difficulties. Don’t let these prejudices stop you from planning a trip to this surprisingly beautiful and versatile country.

When is the best time to travel to Tunisia ?

The best time to travel to Tunisia depends a bit on which region you want to visit. Tunisia is a large and varied country. For a sun-drenched, beach holiday in the north of the country, it’s best to travel to Tunisia between the months of April and October. Keep in mind that it can get very busy in the summer months of June, July and August.

Would you like to make a roadtrip through the south of Tunisia and especially visit the desert? Then it is best to travel there during the months of March, April, October or November. In the summer it’s barely bearable due to the heat, while during winter the months of December and January the temperature can drop below freezing point.

How to get to Tunisia and how to travel around?

We departed by plane from Brussels airport with Tunisair to Tunis, the capital of Tunisia. From Tunis you have the option to travel to Tozeur or Djerba via a domestic flight with Tunisair express at various times during the week.

Would you like to start your road trip adventure in Tunis? Then this is of course also possible! You can easily rent a car from different companies at the airports of Tunis, Tozeur and Djerba. In Tunis and Djerba this is possible through my favorite partner Sunny Cars .

Would you rather not drive yourself? Then opt for an organized tour with a car and driver. This is possible at Agence Alyssa or chibani-voyages . It is best to contact these services personally via email to see what the possibilities are for a personalized road trip through South Tunisia.

You can also do many fun day trips or multi-day excursions in Tunisia via Getyourguide .

Based on my own experiences, I have created an itinerary that can help you plan a trip through South Tunisia.I would allocate at least 8 to 10 days for this road trip. This way you have enough time to fully discover all the places on this itinerary.

We started our road trip through South Tunisia in Tozeur to end with a few days of sun and sea on Djerba. Of course you can fully adapt your travel itinerary to your needs. You can also start your road trip in Djerba to end in Tozeur or possibly make a loop so that you can take a breather at the Mediterranean Sea before and after your trip. And of course you have the option to add or omit some destinations yourself.

Discover Tozeur and the breathtaking surroundings

Tozeur is an oasis city with more than a hundred thousand palm trees. The city lies at the foot of the majestic Atlas Mountains and is best known for its traditional architecture and delicious dates. Not only the town of Tozeur, but also the surrounding landscape is fascinating. So be sure to take enough time here to immerse yourself in the deep-rooted Tunisian culture and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

During our visit in Tozeur we stayed 2 nights at Hotel Palm beach Tozeur . The hotel is located about 2 kilometers from the city of Tozeur. In the morning and in the evening you can enjoy a richly filled buffet with both local and European dishes. With its free car park and budget-friendly prices, this is the ideal place to stay during your road trip.

Do you prefer to stay in the city? Then I would advise you to spend the night in one of the authentic dars. A Dar is the Tunisian variant of the Moroccan riad . It’s a traditional house built around a courtyard, usually located in the Medina. We were able to take a look in Dar Tozeur ourselves. Let me tell you that behind those typical bricks and wooden gate there is a real paradise hidden. Once inside you find yourself in a peaceful, green oasis where you immediately relax. This is definitely one of the places where I would love to stay when visiting Tozeur.

For a luxurious stay I can recommend the beautiful hotel Anantara Sahara-Tozeur Resort & Villas. Here you can enjoy the dazzling interior in which contemporary design and traditional elements come together. This stay is in a higher price range. However, if budget isn’t a problem, then be sure to check out the private suite with swimming pool.

Soak up the Tunisian atmosphere in Tozeur

To experience the Tunisian atmosphere, you should definitely visit the city of Tozeur. There you can meet the local population and get to know the local products. On the main market square you can find various stalls and shops. A well-represented local delicacy is the date. Here, you’ll find them in large numbers. The dates from this region are labeled as the best in Tunisia, so tasting them is definitely a must.

Get lost in the Medina of Tozeur

When in Tozeur, don’t forget to visit Ouled el Hadef, the Medina of Tozeur. This is the oldest part of the city and is one of the best preserved Medinas in Tunisia. Here, you can also admire the special architecture with the traditional golden yellow bricks for which this city is so famous. These bricks are made by local craftsmen using an ancient method. They can be found in almost all buildings, which creates a beautiful street scene. You can also see various geometric figures in the brick facades. Besides the fact that it looks stunning, these strategically placed bricks filter the sunlight so that it stays nice and cool inside.

In the maze of narrow alleys in the Medina you will also find many shops where local craftsmen sell their creations. The good thing is that the atmosphere here is very jovial. The sellers are very happy to show their products, but are above all very friendly and hospitable.

Need a break? Then I have the perfect spot to relax with a refreshing drink. Above La Grande Boutique de la Medina you will find Tozeur’s best rooftop bar ‘Cafe Berber’. Here you can fully enjoy the view over the Medina in a cozy, artistic setting.

Discover more of Tozeur?

For a beautiful piece of traditional architecture and an extremely photogenic spot as well, it’s best to walk past the old station of Tozeur. In 1984, this beautiful station even became the subject of the Italian Eurovision song “I treni di Tozeur”.

You can also extend your trip with a visit to Eden Palm Tresors de l’Oasis, a museum where you can learn more about the history of the palm. There you have the posibility to taste some products made with ingredients from the palm. Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful palm garden before continuing your trip.

Tozeur is not really a big city. The time you need to visit the city depends a bit on whether you want to add extra sights such as Eden Palm Tresors de l’Oasis to your visit. Otherwise half a day is certainly enough to soak up the Tunisian atmosphere in the city.

Visit the iconic Star Wars sites Mos Espa and Ong Jmal

That South Tunisia is still an undiscovered gem is not entirely true. Several places in this stunning but rugged desert landscape were used as a film set for the popular Star Wars films. Today, these are the attractions for which tourists are only too happy to travel to the south. Even we, not exactly the most ‘die-hard’ Star Wars fans, absolutely didn’t want to miss these sights.

The popular Star Wars attractions are located about 50 kilometers from Tozeur. Mos Espa and especially Ong Jmal are situated several kilometers in the desert. It’s therefore not easy to do this excursion with your own car. Moreover, at the end of the route there is no longer a clearly visible paved road. So on top of the bumpy ride, it’s almost impossible to find the right directions if you don’t know the area. Fortunately we could count on our loyal driver.

If you’d like to add these sights to your road trip, you can opt for a half-day excursion. Below you will find some options from Getyourguide’s offer.

In the early 1990s a fictional town Mos Espa was built near Ong Jmal. It served as a filming location for the Star Wars blockbusters ‘Spaceport in The Phantom Menace’ and ‘Episode II Attack of the Clones’. I can imagine that visiting this place is a unique experience for true Star Wars fans. Since I’m not a Star Wars fan, I have to admit that I might have expected a bit more from it. It’s nice to see the film set and to walk around. But you immediately notice that this is just a decor, since the inside of the houses are not finished. Besides that Mos Espa is rather small, so you have seen it quite quickly.

It goes without saying that it can get quite busy here. You’ll also notice this in the approach of the local traders. They are definitely not ashamed to speak to you and try to lure you to their sales stall. However, they do make peace with a friendly rejection. The local children, on the other hand, are not quitters. They come with captivated desert foxes and ask if you want to have your picture taken with the animal in exchange for some money. It’s not a pleasant sight to see these poor animals dangling while being held by their necks. So I definitely didn’t do it. Although I did see some tourists who were caught by this.

According to the local population, this is a recent phenomenon that mainly started at the time of the corona pandemic when the children could no longer go to school. Hopefully it will be nipped in the bud soon too.

A few kilometers further away in the desert you’ll find the unique rock Ong Jmal aka the camel’s neck which owes its name to its curious shape. The ride there took a bit longer than expected and was super bumpy. It was our driver’s first time driving his own car up there. Normally he does this route with a 4X4. Until we got there, he couldn’t say for sure if he would be able to drive us there. Just to show that you better not drive this route with your rental car.

When I arrived at Ong Jmal I was flabbergasted. What an impressive landscape, not just that one specific rock, but the whole environment. On one side I saw rugged, orange rock formations and on the other side the immense salt flat of Chott el Gharsa. I was super impressed with this fascinating place.

After a short but steep climb we were at the top of the mountain. There we had an even better panorama of this breathtaking landscape and could also take a picture with the famous rock.

I would definitely recommend you to visit Ong Jmal. Btw, I forgot to mention that Ong Jmal was not only a film scene for ‘Star Wars’, but also for ‘The English patient’. I now fully understand why this is a favorite spot among filmmakers.

Exlplore the mountain oasises near Tozeur

Due to its strategic location on the Sahara route between Carthage and Algeria, Tozeur was an important trading city. If you follow this route towards Algeria, you will pass the beautiful mountain oases of Chebika, Tamerza and Midès.

You can do this trip yourself, but from Tozeur you can also opt to do one of the many excursions to these unmissable locations.

We started with the canyon of Midès, the mountain oasis furthest from Tozeur. The road alone is an experience in itself, a winding route through the mountains with beautiful views.

When we arrived at the viewpoint over the canyon of Midès, I felt like I was in one of the famous national parks of the United States. I never imagined that Tunisia had such a varied and impressive landscape. From this point you can admire the rounded shapes and the different soil layers of this beautiful natural phenomenon.

Next to the fort you’ll find a path that leads you down in the canyon. There you can admire the geological landscape even better. Unfortunately we didn’t have enough time to do this, but I’ve read this is a very unique hike.

From the impressive Midès canyon we continued to Tamerza. Tamerza is called one of the most beautiful mountain oases because of the paradisiacal environment in between the imposing rocks, with as icing on the cake a rock waterfall where many tourists like to seek refreshment.

When we arrived Tamerza we made our way down the valley past the ruins of the old city. Because no one lives here anymore, this place is often called a ghost town. In 1969, residents were forced to leave their homes due to collapses caused by heavy rainfall. They settled in a new place a few hundred meters away. Today the ruins are occupied by local merchants who set up their stalls there.

Full of impatience I walked down to admire the famous rock waterfall. Unfortunately most of the source had dried up due to the persistent drought and this place looked a little less heavenly than in the photos. When my eye fell on the impressive rocks surrounding the oasis, my disappointment quickly turned into amazement. I definitely understand why this is place is so beloved. Also here you can hike very beautiful trails through the canyon.

Last but not least we visited the most famous mountain oasis Chebika. This place attracts many visitors every day. Because most excursions start in Chebika, we did the reverse route. In this way we’ve avoided peak hour. We arrived around noon and there were no other tourists to be seen.

Once we arrived at Chebika, we were welcomed by the vendors of various stalls located at the entrance of the village. They were happy to show off their extensive range of sand roses.

This small historic village dates all the way back to Roman times. It later became a mountain refuge for the Berbers. Take your time to stroll through the village. From there you have a beautiful view over the lush palm oasis. You can also walk through this exotic palm forest to see a waterfall. Unfortunately we didn’t have time for this anymore, but that’s definitely a reason for me to come back.

Admire the largest salt flat in Tunisia

We only had 2 days to discover Tozeur and its beautiful surroundings. Personally, I found this a bit tight and I would therefore advise you to take 3 days to explore this location This way you have more time to do it at your own pace and maybe have relaxing moment by the pool of your accommodation.

It was about a 2 hours drive from Tozeur to our next destination, Douz. The route was pretty spectacular, because it goes straight through Sjott el-Djerid, the largest salt flat in Tunisia. Somewhere in the middle of the route we drove off road onto the salt flat. It’s not safe to do this everywhere. So if you like to stop to take pictures, be sure to pay attention where you can stop for a while.

At that moment there was a fashion show of Tunisia Fashion Week taking place on the salt flat. This way we could see up to where it was safe to drive the car.

We lingered there for a while to take pictures and enjoy a dreamy sunset. What a special experience to watch a fashion show on this endless white salt flat while watching the sun slowly fade into the horizon.

1 night in Douz

We arrived in Douz in the evening where we spent the night in hotel Sahara Douz . Douz is often referred to as the gateway to the Sahara. And nothing could be further from the truth, because Douz is the place where various excursions to the Sahara depart. That’s why this oasis attracts many visitors, because who wouldn’t want to visit the largest desert in the world?

In Douz you can find many businesses that organise local activities such as a quad tour or a dromedary ride through the sand dunes in the area.

If you want to know more about nomadic life in the desert, you can also visit the museum of the Sahara in Douz.

We spent a morning on the quad bike in Douz to then take a 4X4 into the desert to our next stay, Camp Mars . Spending the night in the Sahara was definitely the moment of the trip that I was most looking forward to. Camp Mars is located in the middle of Jebil National Park. So you literally have to cross part of the Sahara to get there. Of course you can’t do this with your rental car. Fortunately, Camp Mars also offers transport from Douz .

Glamping in the Sahara

After a long two hours of shaking back and forth in the jeep while enjoying this impressive, vast desert landscape, we arrived at our destination. Camp Mars is completely surrounded by orange sand dunes and the imposing Mount Tembaine, which literally means ‘the mountain we see from afar’ in Beber. The perfect place to experience the magic of a night in the desert. We were warmly welcomed with a delicious cocktail.

I was quite curious about the tent. I have already camped in the Sahara in Morocco , but never in a luxurious tent. When I entered my tent, I was so happy to see a real bed. There was even a small bathroom with a toilet and sink where you can freshen up. The only thing that was not there was electricity and of course Wifi or 4G. But this only makes your stay more authentic. That way you can really be in the moment without unnecessary distractions.

Once settled, we climbed the highest sand dune where we could enjoy the most amazing sunset.

The sublime sunset was just the beginning of a super fun evening. We got cozy by the campfire where we could see how a traditional bread was prepared on coals in the sand. Then we ate a delicious meal. In between the different courses we could enjoy a bit of show cooking. Afterwards, songs were sung and to close the evening we let lanterns into the air.

What a magical place and experience! Unfortunately we already had to leave after breakfast. Too bad, because I could definitely stay here another night. Camp Mars also offers various activities and excursions in the area, so you can easily fill another day here

Tataouine

After 2 hours of bumping in the desert, we arrived in Douz. There we switched back to our car to drive another 2 à 3 hours to Tataouine. Along the way, the sandy landscape of the Sahara transformed into impressive rock formations.

Around noon we arrived at hotel Al Rayan where we stayed 1 night. After checking in and having lunch, we immediately left to visit the ksour of Tataouine. A ksar (plural ksour) is a historic fortified town or village in typical Berber architecture that was usually built on a strategic location.

The most famous in this region is Ksar Ouled Soltane, which served as a grain store for the Berbers in the past. This beautiful piece of cultural heritage is very popular among tourists, because it’s also one of the famous Star Wars filming locations in Tunisia. I definitely understand why. This place is so special and shouldn’t be missing from you road trip through South Tunisia. To be honest, Ksar Ouled Soltane impressed me way more than the Mos Espa film set.

We would normally also visit Ksar Hadada and Ksar Ouled Debbab but unfortunately we didn’t have time anymore. Too bad, because I thought they looked impressive on photo, so I definitely would like to have visites these ksour as well. We ended our day with a spectacular sunset in the mountains.

Personally, I would advise you to stay a little longer at Camp Mars . Then you can arrive in Tataouine before dinner. This way you can start your visits to the different ksour early in the morning the next day and then immediately continue to the last destination, Djerba.

Sun, sea and sand in Djerba

After a road trip full of adventure, nature and culture, it’s time to relax and the island Djerba is the perfect destination for that. Here you can enjoy the sun, sea and beautiful beaches. But Djerba definitely has way more to offer than only that. Besides to the most popular sights in Djerba, I would like to list some lesser-known, but not to be missed activities.

Enjoy a relaxing Thalasso treatment

Thalasso what? Thalassotherapy uses seawater and other elements from the marine environment such as mud, algae, air,… In this therapy it’s assumed that when the water is heated to body temperature, it can penetrate the body through the skin. Our body takes out what it needs and breaks down the rest. This would be very good for the skin, but would also help with emerging muscle or joint complaints.

With its multitude of Thalasso centers and excellent climate as a bonus, Tunisia has become the second most important Thalasso destination in the world. Therefore, it’s an experience not to be missed when traveling to Tunisia. We were able to enjoy a Thalasso treatment at the hotel Royal Thalassa Monastir on our way from Tunis to Tozeur. I found this to be a really super fun and relaxing experience.

In Djerba you can go for Thalasso therapy at Hasdrubal Thalassa & Spa Djerba , Hasdrubal Prestige Thalassa & Spa , Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Thalasso and Palm Beach Palace .

Explore the most colorful neighborhood in Djerba: Djerbahood

Are you an art lover or do you just like colorful places? Then Djerbahood is the place to be. Djerbahood actually refers to an art event that took place in 2014 in the village of Erriadh. Artists from all over the world came here to create a total of 250 unique works of art on the wall.

Today, Djerbahood is an open-air graffiti museum where you can still admire these gems. Moreover, it is also a super charming neighborhood to stroll through where you can also see a lot of authentic houses and visit local shops.

Where to stay in Djerba?

Djerba is known for its splendid luxurious all-inclusive resorts, such as the Thalasso hotels that I’ve already mentioned above. More often you can also find smaller and unique accommodations. We’ve visited two very different but unique gems in Djerbahood that I can absolutely recommend: Dar Bibine and Dar Dhiafa.

Excursions from Djerba

Are you on vacation in Djerba and are you less eager to do a road trip, but would you like to explore more of the inland of Tunisia? Then you can opt for one of Getyourguide’s organized (multi-)day trips. Check out some of my favorites below.

During this article you could probably read in between the lines that this road trip through South Tunisia pleasantly surprised me. I’m glad that despite my first not so great trip to Tunisia, I have now got to know the country in a completely different way. Hopefully I can encourage you, through my experiences and tips, to travel to Tunisia and help you plan the perfect road trip.

Would you like to do a road trip through South Tunisia? Let me know in the comments below.

Thank you for reading.

Yours truly,

pin it for later

Travel tips and essentials

Find plane tickets

Find airport parking

Find vacation accommodations

Find a rental car

Book tickets, tours and excursions

Book a transfer with a bus or train

Find a travel guide

Find the right travel photography gear

you might also like these

Download my free preset for stunning vacation photos

Free lightroom preset for stunning vacation photos

The ultimate USA Deep South road trip itinerary

The ultimate Puglia road trip | Italy

Sarah de gheselle, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

phototography
social media en blog promotion

Username or email address * Required

Password * Required

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Travel Advisories |
Contact Us |
MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, north korea - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Do not travel to North Korea due to the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals. Exercise increased caution to North Korea due to the critical threat of wrongful detention.

All U.S. passports are invalid for travel to, in, or through the DPRK unless specially validated for such travel under the authority of the Secretary of State.
Special validations are granted only in very limited circumstances. More information on how to apply for the special validation is available here .

The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in North Korea as it does not have diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea. Sweden serves as the protecting power for the United States in North Korea, providing limited emergency services. The North Korean government routinely delays or denies Swedish officials access to detained U.S. citizens.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of North Korea, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to North Korea.

If you receive a special validation to travel to North Korea:

Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, north korea map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

COMMENTS

Tunisia Holidays 2024 / 2025
Find ATOL protected Tunisia holidays at SUPER low prices. Book today with flexible payment options, it's time to Travel Republic! 0208 974 7200. Help. Tunisia Holidays. Home / Holidays / Tunisia. Home / Holidays / Tunisia. Flight & Hotel Hotel only. Flying from. Travel dates. 2 Adults, 1 Room, Economy Guests & Cabin Class.
All Inclusive Holidays & Resorts in Tunisia 2024/2025
Tunisia is part of the Maghreb region of North Africa, bordered by Algeria to the west, Libya to the southeast, and the Mediterranean Sea to the north. Tunisia is renowned for its year-round warm weather, golden beaches and unique blend of Arab and Berber cultural influences.
Cheap Holidays to Tunisia 2023 / 2024
Tailor-make your own cheap holidays to Tunisia for 2023 / 2024 with Travel Republic. Lowest Prices Guarantee. 01 536 0820. Help. Holidays to Tunisia. Home / Holidays / Tunisia. Home / Holidays / Tunisia. Hotel only Transfers. Going to. Check-in - Check-out. 2 Adults, 1 Room Guests. ... Why Choose Travel Republic?
Holidays in Tunis 2024 / 2025
Book today with flexible payment options, it's time to Travel Republic! 0208 974 7200. Help. Holidays to Tunis. Home / Holidays / Tunisia / Tunis. Home / Holidays / Tunisia / Tunis. Flight & Hotel Hotel only. Flying from. Travel dates. 2 Adults, 1 ... Fancy a trip to Tunisia and considering hopping over to Tunis? We've got every kind of break ...
19 things to know before traveling to Tunisia
The currency in Tunisia is called the dinar, with the Latin symbol DT and the currency code TND. One dinar equals 1000 millimes. The most used notes are 5, 10, 20, and 50 dinars. The coins are ½, 1, 2, 5 dinars, and 50, 100, and 200 millimes. The Tunisian dinar is a closed currency, which means it is only available in Tunisia. You won't be ...
Tunisia International Travel Information
Tunisia International Travel Information
A first-timer's guide to Tunisia
A first-time guide to Tunisia. Isabel Putinja. Aug 20, 2024 • 7 min read. Even on a short trip you should have time to visit the village of Sidi Bou Saïd. Getty Images. Tunisia has long been a destination for sun seekers but this North African country within arm's length of the Italian island of Sicily has much more than beaches of golden ...
All Inclusive Holidays to Tunisia 2022 / 2023
Get huge discounts on all inclusive holidays in Tunisia with Travel Republic, with more choice, more flexibility and lowest prices guaranteed. 01 536 0820. Sign in. Help ...
Travel to Tunisia in 2024: Tips + Itinerary
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 ...
Tunisia Travel: Visas, Health, Transport, & More
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel warning for Tunisia due to terrorism, and advises that travelers exercise increased caution. This includes avoiding areas where attacks are more likely, such as the western mountains (including Chaambi Mountain National Park), the city of Sidi Bou Zid in central Tunisia, and areas along the Libyan and Algerian borders.
11 Top Tips When You Travel Tunisia: Key Things to Know Before You Go!
There's several international airports in this country, but the main ones are…. #1 Tunis-Carthage - best if you want to begin your travels in the capital Tunis or nearby Sidi Bou Said. #2 Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport - best option if you're heading for a beach holiday at the Hammamet resort.
Tunisia
Tunisia - Travel guide at Wikivoyage
Travel in Tunisia
4) Download Maps.me App and use louage for transport. 5) Booking.com offers the best range of accommodation for travel in Tunisia. 6) Drink Only Bottled Water or Bring a LifeStraw. 7) Check Viator to book experiences in Tunisia. 8) Download XE currency converter. 9) Exchange your Tunisian Dinars before your departure.
Tunisia
Tunisia - Traveler view | Travelers' Health
A Guide To Tunisia In North Africa: What To See, Do and More
Known for its archaeological site of Carthage dating back to the 9 th century BCE, ancient architecture, souqs and seashore, Tunisia is a prime destination for a sun-and-sand holiday on the Mediterranean coast. The Arab, Berber, Jewish and European populations have all left their mark on the culture of the country, not least in the food which primarily consists of vegetables, cereals, legumes ...
The Perfect 14 Days Itinerary for Tunisia
DAY 3: TUNIS TO SOUSSE. Distance: 147 km (1 hour 50 mins journey time in car) This morning head to the Louage Station Moncef Bey to catch a louage to Sousse (11.9 TND or $4.20). This 14-day itinerary for Tunisia is based on using public transport - for us, louage was the fastest option.
Last Minute Holidays To Tunisia 2024 / 2025
Last minute Tunisia holidays give you a flexible,budget-friendly way to get away as soon as you need it! Take advantage of SUPER low prices on flights, accommodation, and package deals when you keep an open mind, adapt, overcome. Add some adventure to your travels and dive into the unknown - you'll be surprised at what Tunisia has to offer ...
Hotels in Tunisia 2024 / 2025
Choose cheap hotels in Tunisia in 2023 / 2024 with Travel Republic. Lowest Prices Guarantee. 0208 974 7200. Help. Hotels in Tunisia. Home / Hotels / Tunisia. Home / Hotels / Tunisia. Flight & Hotel Hotel only. Flying from. Travel dates. 2 Adults, 1 Room, Economy Guests & Cabin Class. Search.
Everything you need to know about traveling to Tunisia
The present Tunisian Republic is located in North Africa, alongside the Atlas Mountains. About 40% of its surface corresponds to the Sahara Desert. ... treating yourself to those moments of relaxation you deserve. Whoever you decide to travel to Tunisia with, this prodigious country in North Africa with a Mediterranean essence and Arab soul ...
Travel advice and advisories for Tunisia
Travel advice and advisories for Tunisia
Tunisia
The Department recommends against all travel to the following specific areas: Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Tunisia. A valid passport is required for travel to Tunisia. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months at least from date of entry into Tunisia. Passport Card not accepted for travel to Tunisia: A passport ...
Tunisia travel advice
Tunisia travel advice
The ultimate road trip through South Tunisia
Tunisia. As you probably know, Tunisia is located in North Africa. It's not a large country, but because it stretches from north to south, Tunisia has an extremely varied landscape consisting of beautiful Mediterranean beaches, lush countryside, rolling hills, impressive peaks of the Atlas Mountains, dried up salt lakes, mountain oases with palm tree forests and vast sand dunes that are part ...
Health Alert: New Quarantine Policy for International Arrivals to Tunisia
Tunisian Observatory for New and Emerging Diseases (ONMNE) Facebook Page. Tunisian COVID-19 Information Facebook Page. For Assistance: U.S. Embassy Tunis, Tunisia. +216-71-107-000. [email protected]. https://tn.usembassy.gov/. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
Dominican Republic Travel Advisory
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.. Country Summary: Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic.The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources ...
Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Advisory
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. If you decide to travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. Avoid demonstrations. Use caution when walking or driving. Always have a photocopy of your U.S. passport and DRC visa.
Republic of Ireland vs. England prediction, odds, betting tips and best
Republic of Ireland vs. England prop bet. Pick: Bukayo Saka to score or assist Odds: +100 Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has been a creative machine to start the season for Arsenal, with a goal and ...
Central African Republic Travel Advisory
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Do not travel to the Central African Republic (CAR) due to Embassy Bangui's limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping.. Country Summary: Although there have been no specific incidents of violence or threats targeting U.S. citizens, civil unrest, demonstrations, and election-related violence ...
Niger Travel Advisory
Reconsider travel to Niger due to risk of crime, civil unrest, terrorism, and kidnapping. Violent crimes, such as armed robbery, are common. ... Niamey, Niger Republic. Telephone +(227) 20-72-26-61. Emergency +(227) 99-49-90-66. Fax. No Fax. Email. [email protected]. Website.
North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Travel Advisory
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Do not travel to North Korea due to the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.Exercise increased caution to North Korea due to the critical threat of wrongful detention.. All U.S. passports are invalid for travel to, in, or through the DPRK unless specially validated for such travel under the authority of ...

The Tunisian Way

19 things to know before traveling to Tunisia

What is Tunisia famous for?

Best time to visit - when to visit Tunisia?

What type of food is eaten in Tunisia?

What's the currency in Tunisia?

What is the main religion in Tunisia?

Where is Tunisia? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Should I visit Tunisia during Ramadan?

Ramadan in Tunisia - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

What language is spoken in Tunisia? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Do Tunisians speak French?

Do Tunisian speak English?

How to dress in Tunisia?

What to pack for Tunisia? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Leave the drone at home - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Can I drink tap water? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Versatile nature of Tunisia - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Traffic in Tunisia - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Historical landmarks - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Is Tunisia cheap or expensive? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Is Tunisia safe? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Haggling is an art - souvenir shopping.

Be careful when crossing the street - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Can I drink alcohol? - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

1 Comment on 19 things to know before traveling to Tunisia

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

A first-time guide to Tunisia

When should I go to Tunisia?

How much time should I spend in Tunisia?

Is it easy to get to and around Tunisia?

Top things to do in Tunisia

My favorite thing to do in Tunisia

How much money do I need for Tunisia?

Do I need a visa for Tunisia?

Which languages are spoken in Tunisia?

Explore related stories

Travel to Tunisia in 2024: Tips + Itinerary

In this Tunisia travel guide you will find:

our recommended travel insurance for Tunisia

🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Tunisia

🛫 How to get to Tunisia

How to travel to Tunisia by land

🚑 Travel Insurance for Tunisia

⛅ Best time to visit Tunisia

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

🕌 The people and the culture

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

Must-try dishes in during your trip in Tunisia

🛺 How to move around: transportation

Traveling around Tunisia by train

Traveling around Tunisia by louage

💰 Money, budget and costs

How much does it cost to travel to Tunisia?

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Tunisia?

Tunisia Itinerary – Places to visit in 2 weeks

Tunisia 2-week travel itinerary map

Day 1, 2 – Visit the capital of Tunis

Things to do in Tunis

Where to stay in Tunis

Best tours in Tunis

Day 3 – The resort-like town of Sousse

Things to do in Sousse

Where to stay in Sousse

How to get to Sousse from Tunis

Day 4 – Day trip to Monastir

How to get Monastir from Sousse

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

Things to do in Kairouan

How to get to Kairouan from Sousse

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

How to get to El Jem from Sousse

Day 7 – Sfax, the coolest medina in Tunisia

Things to do in Sfax

Where to stay in Sfax

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

Things to do in Tataouine & around

Where to stay in the area

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

Things to do in Tozeur