best tunis travel guide

Travel to Tunisia in 2024: Tips + Itinerary

By Joan Torres 20 Comments Last updated on April 12, 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

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🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Tunisia

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

🛫 How to get to Tunisia

How to travel to tunisia by air.

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

How to travel to Tunisia by land

Tunisia has a border with Algeria and Libya .

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

🚑 Travel Insurance for Tunisia

For Tunisia, get IATI Insurance :

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⛅ Best time to visit Tunisia

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

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

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

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

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

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

🕌 The people and the culture

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Must-try dishes in during your trip in Tunisia

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

🛺 How to move around: transportation

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

Typically, there are 2 ways to travel around Tunisia:

Traveling around Tunisia by train

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

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

Traveling around Tunisia by louage

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

💰 Money, budget and costs

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

1 USD = 3.15 TND

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

How much does it cost to travel to Tunisia?

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

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

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

Please note that the below table is just an approximation.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Tunisia?

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

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

Is Tunisia a safe country to visit?

Tunisia Itinerary – Places to visit in 2 weeks

How long should you go backpacking in Tunisia for?

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

Tunisia 2-week travel itinerary map

Day 1, 2 – Visit the capital of Tunis

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tunis

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

Where to stay in Tunis

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

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

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

Best tours in Tunis

I recommend you look for tours via GetYourGuide .

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

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

Day 3 – The resort-like town of Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Sousse

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

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

Where to stay in Sousse

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

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

How to get to Sousse from Tunis

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

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

Day 4 – Day trip to Monastir

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

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

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

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

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

Then, we went to Habib Bourguiba’s mausoleum.

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

How to get Monastir from Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Kairouan

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

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

How to get to Kairouan from Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to El Jem from Sousse

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

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

Day 7 – Sfax, the coolest medina in Tunisia

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Sfax

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

Where to stay in Sfax

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

For more hotel options in Sfax,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tataouine & around

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

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

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

Where to stay in the area

I recommend you stay in Tataouine.

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

Apartment – Dar Essadeg – Full traditional apartment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tozeur

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

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

Where to stay in Tozeur

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

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

How to get to Tozeur from Tataouine

The journey is rather more than 300km.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Le Kef

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

How to get to Le Kef from Tozeur

It’s a long way, around 330km.

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

Day 13 – Day trip to Jugurtha Tableland

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

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

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

How to get to Jugurtha Tableland from El Kef

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 14 – Day trip to Dougga Roman ruins

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

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

Absolutely gorgeous.

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

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

How to get to Dougga from El Keff

It was a bit complicated.

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

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

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

❗ More information for backpacking in Tunisia

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

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

All guides and articles for traveling in Tunisia destination

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Is Tunisia Safe?

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

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

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20 comments

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

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

Has anyone rented a car and drove around Tunisia independently?

I did, in the south. Very easy

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

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

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

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

Mega helpful. Thank you.

Is there anyway to get from Sousse to Dougga?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hola Joan, qué tal?

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

Muchas gracias, saludos!

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

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

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

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Tunisia Travel Guide – All About Visiting Tunisia

Planning holidays in Tunisia? You will not be disappointed! The country was one of my best travel discoveries recently; I was so impressed with all the remarkable monuments, historical sites, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful landscapes, hospitable locals, and friendly vibe. Whether you are traveling to Tunisia to relax on the beach or to explore this fascinating country, you are in for a treat.

I put together this Tunisia travel guide to help you prepare for your trip to Tunisia with all the info you might need. In this article, you will find all you need to know about visiting Tunisia and having a hassle-free time there. Read on, plan your trip, and enjoy Tunisia!

Planning a trip to Tunisia?

Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I use either Viator or Get Your Guide .
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Tunisia check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Get insured for your trip to Tunisia with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Basic information on Tunisia

Where is tunisia.

Tunisia, a country of over twelve million inhabitants, is located in North Africa, on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It neighbors Algeria on the west and Lybia on the east.

Why visit Tunisia

For some reason, Tunisia isn’t as popular among tourists as nearby Morocco and Egypt , yet the country offers exceptional sights and monuments and perfect opportunities for relaxing holidays at the sea. It is also not so spoiled by tourism as the two countries mentioned above, which makes visiting Tunisia so much easier and more pleasant.

If you are looking for exceptional Roman ruins, vibrant yet charming medinas, beautiful architecture, stunning views, or even some alternative sites – Tunisia is a place for you. There are so many great places to visit and things to do in Tunisia that you will be impressed with all the country has to offer!

Planning a trip to Tunisia

Best time to visit tunisia.

The best time to visit Tunisia is spring (April-May) or autumn (October-November). The weather is good then, perfect for relaxing on the beach and sightseeing. Summer months can be too hot even for sun lovers.

I visited Tunisia in early January, and it was perfect for sightseeing, with mostly sunny days and temperatures around 15-20C (sometimes even more). There were also very few tourists around, making sightseeing much nicer.

Insurance for Tunisia

I believe you should always have insurance when you travel as you never know what might happen, and better safe than sorry. And the same goes for a trip to Tunisia. You can buy travel insurance with the trusted company, SafetyWings, here .

Visa for Tunisia

Most nationalities don’t need a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. If you are from some countries in Africa, Asia, or South America, chances are you need a Tunisian visa before entering the country. You can get it in the embassy of Tunisia near you.

Before planning a trip to Tunisia, be sure to consult the website of the Tunisian embassy or your local Ministry of Foreign Affairs to check if a visa is required.

How to get to Tunisia

Unfortunately, Tunisia is not on the route of low-cost airlines, so getting there might be a bit tricky and expensive (that’s the most budget-consuming thing about visiting Tunisia). I flew with Air France via Paris, but you can also fly directly to Tunis from Rome, Cairo, Casablanca, Doha, Frankfurt, Istanbul, or Dubai. Check the local airline Tunisair, too, as it serves many direct flights to European airports.

Another good option to fly to Tunisia might be a charter flight. They serve primarily tourists who decide to go for resort holidays, but you don’t need to buy the whole package to use them; you can get the flight ticket only and use them too. Charter flights usually go to popular holiday destinations in Tunisia, which include the airports of Djerba, Enfidha–Hammamet, and Monastir.

I was considering flying charter to Tunisia, but flights from Poland were only once a week, on Thursdays, and the price wasn’t much lower than Air France that I used (where I could choose the dates that suited me). It’s worth checking charter flights, but in the end, the regular flight might still be your best option.

How many days for visiting Tunisia

The optimal time for visiting Tunisia is 10-14 days. This way, you can see all the highlights and best attractions in Tunisia as well as relax a bit at the seaside. Of course, the more, the better, but even with only one week in Tunisia, you can see a lot.

I spent ten days in Tunisia and was satisfied with what I saw then. Still, I wouldn’t mind spending an extra day or two simply doing nothing and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of the seaside.

You can read my detailed 10-day Tunisia itinerary here.

What to see in Tunisia

Tunisia offers so many amazing places to visit, and what makes it a great destination is the diversity of attractions. Spectacular Roman ruins, incredible vibrant medinas, long sandy beaches, charming towns, and so much more – Tunisia has it all!

Some of the best places to visit in Tunisia (that I was lucky to see) are:

• Tunis – the capital of the country, with beautiful, UNESCO-listed medina and interesting architecture from the French colonial period
• Carthage – impressive ruins of the Phoenician city from the 6th century BCE and the most significant trade metropolis of the antique world, another UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Sidi Bou Said – a charming town on the coast just outside of Tunis, famous for its traditional white-blue houses and winding lanes
• Bulla Regia – an impressive archeological site known for its Hadrianic-era semi-subterranean housing and numerous mosaics still left in place
• Dougga – one of the best and most well-preserved Roman ruins I’ve ever seen, a massive site packed with original buildings from ancient times, another UNESCO site
• Testour – a 16th-century shelter for the Muslim and Jewish refugees from Andalusia who gave a distinctive look to the town
• El Jem – home to one of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, dating back to the 3rd century, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List
• Sousse – the third largest city in Tunisia, with UNESCO-listed medina and a great Archeological Museum, famous also for its long and sandy beach
• Kairouan – another UNESCO place, the town is known as a holy city in Islam, with incredible medina and stunning Great Mosque, among other attractions
• Djerba – the island is popular as a holiday destination for its long and sandy beaches, but you can also find there some alternative sites such as the town with over 200 murals or numerous abandoned hotels
• Ksar Ghilane – an Oasis on the edge of the Sahara desert
• Chenini – an old Berber village built into the mountains, partly abandoned
• Tataouine – the city is known primarily thanks to the Star Wars movies; you will find in and around the place numerous inspiration and filming locations for great films

Other interesting places that I missed but are still worth visiting include numerous seaside towns perfect for relaxing holidays (Hammamet, Nabeul, or Monastir), Chott el Djerid (the vast salt lake), Sbeitla (another ancient town), Matmata (the Berber village and the Star Wars filming location), or Tozeur and nearby mountain oasis villages.

How to get from Tunis airport to the center

Apparently, some infrequent buses run between the airport and the center of Tunis, but I’ve never seen them (and in total, I was four times at the Tunis Carthage airport). The best option is to take a taxi. The fair prices I found online are 30 TND in the day and 45 TND at night, but everything depends on the negotiation skills and meter use.

Fortunately, in Tunis, you can use Bolt cars and find the ride in the app. That’s what I did in Tunis, and I never paid more than 10 TND (that included my tip) for the ride between the airport and the center, doesn’t matter what time of the day I was going (once I had to be at the airport around 5 in the morning and price for Bolt was 6 TND at that time).

Since the area around the airport can be confusing for finding the car, I suggest going outside to the roundabout and getting the ride there (here is the exact location). It is so much easier and stress-free this way. When I arrived, I couldn’t find my driver at the airport, and eventually, we met at the roundabout; the second time, I went directly there and ordered my ride from that point.

How to get around cities

Again, taxis are your best option. In Tunis and Sousse, you can use Bolt, and that makes everything so much easier. In other places, like Djerba, you can use regular taxis. I found the taxi drivers in Djerba honest, and I wasn’t scammed even once there; usually, I even paid less than I assumed for the ride.

How to get around Tunisia

Tunisia doesn’t have very well-developed railway lines; however, you can use the train during your trip, especially on the Tunis – Sousse – El Jam route. You can find the schedules here, at the official website of Tunisian Railways.

The trains are a bit old but surprisingly comfortable, and the journey doesn’t take that long, although delays happen. There are two classes on the train, and I recommend getting tickets for the 1st class as they are not much more expensive, but the comfort level is much better.

Since I’m used to getting tickets in advance, just to be sure I have a seat secured, I went to the train station in Tunis shortly after arriving to get all my tickets. As it turned out, there was no need for that as everyone got the tickets just before the departure. You can go to the train station 15 minutes before the train and get the ticket there.

While the coach and seat are indicated on the ticket, no one cares about that, so sit wherever you want to, as long as the class is correct.

You can also take the suburban train from Tunis to Carthage and Sidi Bou Said. They depart frequently from the small Tunis Marine station, just a short walk away from the clocktower in the center of the city.

You buy the ticket in the window just before entering the platform – the same system works everywhere on this line. The ticket is really cheap, less than 1 TND for the ride from Tunis to Carthage or Sidi Bou Said.

Louages are the most popular way to travel around Tunisia. These minibusses can fit up to 10 people and depart when full. The whole system might look hectic, and the louages station can be a bit overwhelming, but everything is relatively straightforward and easy.

In bigger stations, you can find the signs with destinations, but even if they are not there, someone will tell you where to go so you won’t be lost for too long. You buy the ticket for the route you are interested in, and then you are pointed to the right car; once all the passengers arrive, you are ready to go.

I took louages from Sousse to Kairouan and back, and I never had to wait more than 5 minutes to go. As for the comfort, it depends on what kind of car you will get. On the way to Kairouan, the louage was jammed, and even if it was only an hour-long journey, my knees weren’t happy. However, on the way back to Sousse, it was spacious, and I could have easily gone in this kind of car for a few hours.

If you are short on time in your itinerary or don’t want to spend too many hours in louages, consider flying within Tunisia. At first, I was planning to take a louage from Sousse to Djerba, but it takes around 6 hours, leaving me with not enough time to explore the island, so I’ve decided to take the plane from Tunis to Djerba. And it was a perfect decision.

The flight was operated by Tunisiar Express and served by smaller planes – ATR 72. There is no online check-in, so you still need to wait in the queue at the airport, but at least you get checked luggage in the price. The flight time between Tunis and Djerba is around one hour.

Another place you might consider flying to/from is Tozeur, right in the heart of the Sahara, in the central part of the country, some 450 km away from Tunis.

Unfortunately, not every interesting place and tourist attraction is reachable by public transport in Tunisia (or it’s too much hassle if you’re in the country only for a short time). That’s why it’s worth considering the tour. They might be a bit expensive, but in most cases, they are definitely worth it as the places you visit are pretty impressive, and it would be a pity to miss them when visiting Tunisia.

I went on two tours during my trip, from Tunis to Dougga and Bulla Regia and from Djerba to the Sahara desert and Chenini. I booked both of them in advance on Viator , and I was really satisfied with the choice as both tours and all the places were incredible. I booked both tours in advance, before arriving (that’s my preferred way of planning a trip), but I think you might also get them organized by your hotel when you are in Tunisia.

Language in Tunisia

The official language in Tunisia is Arabic, but French is widely spoken due to its history and connections with France. If you know French, you are good to go. I had to try really hard to remember some basic French from when I learned it at school some 20 years ago.

Getting around with English can be complicated as it’s not that popular, and sometimes it’s a bit hard to communicate with people only in English. But everyone is friendly, and they will do their best to help you and make you feel welcome even with the language barrier.

Money in Tunisia

The currency of Tunisia is the Tunisian dinar (TND). At the time of writing this article, 1 TND was worth 0,30€ or 0,33$. The banknotes are 5, 10, 20, and 50 TND; the coins are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 millimes, and 1/2, 1, 2 and 5 dinars.

Getting money in Tunisia

There are plenty of ATMs around where you can get money in Tunisia. Most of them charge a small fee for withdrawing money, usually 10-12 dinars – what’s interesting is that sometimes the fee varies even among the ATMs of the same bank. The only ATM that didn’t take a fee was the STB bank ATM in the arrivals at Tunis airport, just after the passport control but before collecting the luggage.

I used ATMs a few times and never had any issues, but I always use ATMs located at the bank, just in case. I also used my Revolut card.

Payment by card

Unfortunately, paying by card isn’t very common in Tunisia, so having cash with you is better; consider it when taking money from an ATM. I used a card only a handful of times, in hotels and at the airport; everywhere else, I paid by card.

Prices in Tunisia

Tunisia is, in fact, a very affordable country, and I was surprised by the prices there. To give you a few examples: a 3-star hotel in Djerba, with breakfast, was less than 30€/night, the first class train ticket from Tunis to Sousse was a bit over 3€, a hearty meal in one of the best restaurants in Sousse medina was 10€ and a quick fast food lunch was around 3€. The bottle of water is around 0,40€ and the bottle of cola around 0,80€. The fresh orange juice is around 1€. The cappuccino in Tunis cafe with the exceptional view of the medina is 2€.

Entrance fee to attractions

Most attractions and monuments require a ticket, which is another really affordable thing in Tunisia. I paid between 5 and 12 TND for entrance fees.

If you decide to go to the Sahara desert, most likely you will go to the oasis Ksar Ghilan. You can go a bit into the desert on a camel or a quad there. The prices for around a 45-minute trip are 10€ for a camel or 30€ for a quad.

Safety in Tunisia

The most common question I got about traveling to Tunisia was about safety. As you might remember, in 2015, Tunisia was targeted by ISIS. Two of three terrorist attacks that took place then were aimed at tourists (in the Bardo Museum in Tunis and the seaside resort near Sousse). Since then, tourism in Tunisia really collapsed as people were afraid to travel to a potentially dangerous zone.

But a few years have passed, and Tunisia slowly gets back on the travel map, with more and more travelers deciding to visit the country. Most of them are, however, going on resort holidays or organized tours.

During my trip to Tunisia, I’ve barely seen independent tourists besides me, and exploring such an unpopular place was an interesting experience. But I’ve never really felt unsafe there. Quite the contrary, actually, as everyone was friendly and welcoming. I was expecting a bit of the hassle in tourist spots, similar to those you get in Morocco or Egypt, but during my whole stay there, I had only one encounter with the annoying local who insisted on showing me around the medina in Kairouan – he was quickly yelled at by the local lady from the shop and run away.

That said, you must follow safety rules like everywhere else and use common sense. Before your trip, check the warnings of your local Ministry of Foreign Affairs to see if there is any part of Tunisia that you should avoid.

Solo female travel in Tunisia

I can’t count how many times I’ve heard the question of why I’m traveling solo in Tunisia (my usual answer was, “Why not?”). The concept of solo female travel isn’t popular there, and people couldn’t get why I’ve come there alone. But even if they didn’t fully understand, they were still very friendly and hospitable.

I didn’t have a single situation where I felt unsafe. The only time I felt more self-conscious than usual was when I was exploring abandoned hotels in Djerba, but it had nothing to do with the danger and more to do with my mind playing tricks. If you follow basic safety rules and your intuition, you will be fine.

Internet in Tunisia

Internet in Tunisia isn’t as widely available as you might wish. You can connect to wifi in hotels or some restaurants and cafes, but I would generally not rely on it too much. In two out of three hotels I’ve stayed at, I used my mobile data to surf online as wifi was too poor or acting up.

SIM card in Tunisia

As soon as I landed at Tunis airport, I got myself a local SIM card with internet data. There are three mobile phone networks you can choose from (Ooredoo, Orange, Tunisie Telecom), I went for Orange as their stand was the first one, just after passport control. There, I got a free SIM card with only a few bites included, but I went to the Orange shop in the arrivals, where they put the local SIM card in my phone and added extra bites. I paid 20 TND for 6 GB, which was more than enough for my trip. Maybe I overpaid, but then I saved the money on the Bolt ride from the airport versus taking the taxi, so I was good with that price.

When traveling around Tunisia, I didn’t complain about the network coverage. The only place where my Orange network didn’t work, but the other one (Tuntel) did, was the Sahara desert and near it.

You can also get a eSIM with Airalo for your trip to Tunisia, this way you will stay connected without all the hassle of getting a local SIM card. Click here to get the Airalo eSIM.

What to eat in Tunisia

The most popular food you can try in Tunisia is couscous, apparently the best in the world. It is prepared with spicy tomato sauce; you can choose different additions: meat, fish, or vegetables. Other dishes you might want to try include ojja – spicy tomato sauce with poached eggs and merguez; soups (like chorba or lablabi); tajine – the Tunisian version is made of eggs, potatoes, onion, garlic, parsley, grated cheese, happy cow cheese, salt, pepper, and turmeric (and then some extras, such as chicken, shrimps, or spinach), omek houria (spicy carrot salad), and tabouna (a traditional Tunisian bread).

Vegetarian in Tunisia

I was surprised by the challenge of being a vegetarian in Tunisia. In many of the restaurants, there was not a single vegetarian option on the menu, but as I quickly learned, it was not a problem at all. Everywhere I asked, they did something vegetarian for me – usually couscous with vegetables, which was so delicious I didn’t mind eating it every second day. Sometimes, it was a less fancy meal – an omelet or rice with salad, but the point is, I never was hungry.

Just a word of warning – if you can, treat the local pizza as a last resort. I had it twice, as it was the only option, and in both cases, it wasn’t the best food I’ve ever had. It was edible, of course, and I didn’t feel bad afterward; it just wasn’t very tasty, and I think the cheese was to be blamed for it.

What to drink in Tunisia

The absolute best thing you can drink in Tunisia is freshly squeezed juice, most often orange, but sometimes you can also find pomegranate. You can get it in most cafes and restaurants as well as from random vendors around, and usually, it’s very cheap, like 2-3 TND for a cup. I had it every single day (sometimes a few times), and it never got boring!

Another local drink I enjoyed was the mint tea. I’m a huge black-tea-no-sugar drinker, but somehow, I enjoyed this overly sweet drink. I was familiar with this kind of tea already from Morocco, but I still ordered it numerous times during my trip and enjoyed every single cup.

Alcohol in Tunisia is legal, but you are not allowed to drink it in public spaces, such as beaches, parks, etc. You can buy it in bigger stores; alcohol is also served in some restaurants and resort hotels in popular tourist destinations.

Where to stay in Tunisia

Since Tunisia is a popular seaside destination, you can find numerous hotels, including big resorts, along the Mediterranean coast. When it comes to staying in less popular places, the choice is smaller but still there.

You can find a place to stay and book your accommodation on Booking , that’s what I did too.

Power plugs in Tunisia

Tunisia uses type C and E power plugs; the European plugs work fine there.

Useful apps

The two most useful apps for me in Tunisia were Bolt for ordering taxis in Tunis and Sousse and Google Translate, which I downloaded in French and Arabic before the trip. I also used a lot of maps.me and Google Maps when getting around.

I can’t recommend visiting Tunisia enough. It was like a better version of Morocco or Egypt, with great ancient sites and bustling medinas but without many scams, overwhelming tourism, and annoying situations. It’s a matter of time before the country becomes a tourist hotspot again, so hurry up and visit Tunisia soon and enjoy all the greatness it has to offer.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Tunisia
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Tunisia here.
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Tunisia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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12 Comments

ALI KHAMMASSI

Hi Kami, I’m a licensed tunisian guide, i just want to thank you for the great job that you did and that you are doing. You’ve been a very good ambassador for my country .

Thank you. I really enjoyed my trip to Tunisia and I’ll gladly recommend the country to other travelers.

Hi Kami yours are the most helpful infos i found on tunisia. Just 1 question. Aren’t there any mini buses? I know them from kenya and türkiye. One can get on and off anywhere. No bus stop needed. Have you seen those too?

There are no minibuses like for example in Eastern Europe but there is a shared public transport with louages. I wrote about them in this article.

Thank you so much for writing this blog! We just visited Tunisia, and there isn’t a lot of quality information out that. Super appreciation all of the information, we used your blog non stop as a guide to help!

Thank you for your kind comment, I’m really happy you found my blog useful for your trip. All the best!

Charles Stewart

Hi Kami –

I’ll be in Tunisia in March and just read your travel guide. You’ve provided some very helpful tips and answered any question I might have at the planning stage. Excellent intro to an unfamiliar country…thank you!!

I’m very glad you found it useful. Have a wonderful trip to Tunisia! I’m sure you will enjoy this fascinating country!

BENJAMIN ABOSI

Thank you for sharing your tourism experience in Tunisia, the information is very interesting and I will like to get more of your traveling experiences. I wish to be your friend because I love traveling a lot.

I’m glad you found this article useful. All the best!

Jennifer diPretoro

Thank you for such a great article about Tunisia–I’m planning a trip in early April and this is enormously helpful !

I’m glad to hear that! Have a wonderful trip!

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Tunisia Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

Written by Jess Lee Updated Sep 24, 2021

Tunisia may be mainly known as a summer sun and sea travel destination, but off the beach there is much more to discover. In the south, the Sahara's swath of desert sand scattered with lonely oases offers landscapes of rolling dunes that are ripe for adventure tourism activities, while in the north, the ruins of ancient towns sit snug within fertile hill country and are easy historic day trips from Tunis.

Tunisia's geographical situation laid it open from time immemorial to empire builders. The Roman amphitheater at El Djem is only the most famous of the country's historical sights, which take in Phoenician and Roman ruins, Roman and Byzantine mosaics, and Arab and Ottoman forts.

For those who want to explore beyond its feted beaches, Tunisia's small size makes it simple to experience a mix of culture, history, and landscapes even on a short trip.

On This Page:

Inspirational ideas for planning your trip to tunisia, best time to visit tunisia, visitors guide to tunis, best towns in tunisia, historic highlights of tunisia, essential stats & facts, first-time traveler tips for tunisia.

For beach vacations, head straight to the Mediterranean shore. Away from the coast, Tunisia provides plenty of adventure activities amid the vast desert landscapes of the Sahara, famous film locations for fans of movies such as the Star Wars franchise, and some of the grandest Roman ruins in north Africa.

Plan what not to miss in your holiday itinerary by checking out our overview articles on the country's highlights.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tunisia
• Tunisia in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Summer: If you're traveling to Tunisia solely for the Mediterranean beaches, summer is high season, with sun and blue skies from June through August. Beach resort prices are highest during July and August. Desert trips are best avoided during this season due to rocketing temperatures.

Fall (September & October): As well as spring, fall is the best time to visit Tunisia if you want to travel around the country rather than simply bask on the beach. The weather is still mostly sunny and warm, but the high temperatures of July and August have tempered down in the south, so desert trips are back on the cards. Expect some rain in October in the north.

Winter: Tunisia's northern region and the Mediterranean coast receive most of their rain from around late October to May. It can get very chilly (including in the desert after dark), so bring warm clothing. The coastal beach resorts may be quiet, but this is a great time if you're traveling specifically for the desert.

Spring: Lots of blue skies (though expect rain along the coast and in the north) and moderate temperatures make this an excellent season for visitors who want to travel around the entire country.

Tunisia's capital, Tunis, is a laid-back introduction to the country. Many tourists spend little time here, often only visiting as a day trip from the beach, but Tunis is the contemporary heartbeat of Tunisia and has plenty to keep visitors busy for a few days.

Spend some time exploring the wriggling alleys of the historic medina (old town), soaking up the ambience of Sidi Bou Said, admiring the world-famous mosaic collection inside the Bardo Museum, and visiting the rambling ruins of once-mighty Carthage before setting off on farther travels.

• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Tunis
• Exploring the Ruins of Ancient Carthage: A Visitor's Guide
• Exploring Sidi Bou Said: Tunis' Picturesque Seaside Suburb

Many visitors here to soak up the sun on the beach head directly to the Mediterranean coastal towns of Hammamet and Sousse, and the island of Djerba, which are particular favorites with overseas tourists. If you're interested in history and culture, don't miss the town of Kairouan, with its labyrinthine medina, and the desert oasis town of Tozeur with its preserved brick architecture.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hammamet
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sousse
• Top-Rated Tourist Attraction in Djerba
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kairouan
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tozeur
• Exploring Tozeur's Oasis: A Visitor's Guide
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Monastir
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sfax
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mahdia
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bizerte

Tunisia's star historical attraction is El Djem, a massive and wonderfully preserved Roman amphitheater that was the fourth largest ever built during the Roman era. Tunisia, though, has a long and rich history, and there are plenty more historic remnants for travelers who want to delve further.

The two most impressive Roman city ruins, Dougga and Bulla Regia, are in the country's north and can be easily visited as day trips from either Tunis or Tabarka.

• Exploring El Djem: A Visitor's Guide
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tabarka

• Population of Tunisia: The population of Tunisia is 11.8 million. Nearly the entire population lives in the country's northern half and along the coast. Around 70 percent of Tunisia's population live in urban areas.
• Capital of Tunisia: The capital of Tunisia is Tunis, which has a population of two million.
• Geography of Tunisia: Tunisia is a thin country rimming the Mediterranean Sea to the north and sharing borders with Algeria to the west and Libya to the east. The northern half of the country is mountainous, while the Sahara desert covers much of Tunisia's southern half. In total, Tunisia covers an area of 163,610 square kilometers.
• Languages of Tunisia: The official language of Tunisia is Arabic. French is widely spoken in Tunisia despite having no official language status. Tamazight is also spoken by the Amazigh (Berber).
• Currency of Tunisia: The currency of Tunisia is the Tunisian dinar.
• Time Zone of Tunisia: The time zone of Tunisia is UTC + 1.

Tourist Visas for Tunisia: Passport holders of 97 countries can enter Tunisia visa-free for stays of between 30 and 90 days (depending on the country). Nationalities that require a tourist visa need to apply pre-travel at the Tunisian Embassy. An online e-visa system is currently in the works to make the tourist visa application process easier and more streamlined.

Clothing: Tunisia is an easygoing society, but off the beach and away from the tourist resorts and Tunis, travelers should err on the conservative side in their clothing, covering shoulders and knees, particularly if traveling in rural areas.

Electricity: Tunisia uses two-prong European-style plugs.

Money: Apart from large hotels, big tourist-orientated shops, and a few fine-dining restaurants, credit cards aren't widely accepted in Tunisia, so expect to pay in cash. ATMs are widely available. It is very useful to have small change for public transport, small restaurants, and shops that may not be able to break larger bills.

Mosquitos: If you are traveling to the desert oases such as Tozeur, pack some insect repellent. The mosquitos can be ferocious.

Photography: Be aware that it is illegal to photograph government and military facilities in Tunisia, and don't bring along your drone for taking spectacular aerial shots of the desert. All drone photography is illegal in Tunisia without an official permit. Always ask permission before taking photos of people.

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Home » Africa » Backpacking Tunisia Travel Guide (BUDGET TIPS • 2024)

Backpacking Tunisia Travel Guide (BUDGET TIPS • 2024)

Nestled in a dreamy corner of Africa, lies a small but mighty land boasting sand, sea and copious amounts of tea. 

Sublime scenery . Unforgettable hospitality.

Tunisia is a special, special place. 

Lush forests disappear South into the stillness of the Sahara , flanked by a coastline of pristine beaches and fascinating islands.

Home to a unique blend of North African and Mediterranean cultures, surreal archeological sites and access to the desert on a budget, Tunisia is a broke backpacker’s dream. 

Navigating this cultural and physical landscape may appear tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you’ll have all the tools you need to venture off and explore this tasty slice of North Africa, which is exactly what you’ll find in this backpacking Tunisia travel guide .

… The desert calls! 

(And any Star Wars fans, do add an extra week…)

Why Go Backpacking in Tunisia?

Being honest, visiting Tunisia hadn’t crossed my mind, until I found myself heading down Italy and wondering what to do next.

As it turns out, Tunisia is home to the world’s most magnificent front doors. If this isn’t enough, behind those doors, live the most fantastically friendly people: nowhere else have I felt such a universally-warm welcome.  

My main tip for backpacking Tunisia is to be open to adventure: you never know where the day may take you, and that is part of the beauty of travelling here. I could fill this guide exemplifying the kindness of Tunisian people, but that’s best discovered yourself.

So don’t think twice: book that ferry or flight, and head to North Africa. Chats with locals over tea will capture your heart, and the Saharan landscape will take your breath away. I guarantee you that budget backpacking Tunisia will leave you wanting to return.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Tunisia

If you have a week or even less to explore, there’s good news: the desert dream is remarkably accessible. You’ll have time to set forth across the countryside, to and from Tunis in the North .

A month would allow you to cover both the wide range of historical sites and natural beauty spots on offer pretty extensively. 

Either of these itineraries will ensure you experience the best of Tunis, the tranquillity of the south, and immerse yourself in Tunisia’s rich history. 

However, don’t be afraid to construct your own route. Using these itineraries as a guide, but sporadically wandering off, would be a juicy way to explore.

Plus, have a go on various modes of transport during your trip. Trains, buses and louages (don’t worry, all will be explained … ), each deserve their place on a Tunisian adventure. 

You may even find yourself hitching a lift on a tractor, if your heart so desires…

A word of caution: Tunisian summertime is VERY warm, particularly in the desert. Some tours may not operate from June to August, so if you’re set on the Sahara, the summer months are best avoided.

1 Week in Tunisia: A Descent to the Desert…

Most travellers will arrive in Tunis , either by air or sea. 

Wander the vibrant capital and suburbs: Sidi Bou Said is a beautiful seaside town, with buildings of white and brilliant blue. Carthage , an ancient capital, is home to a remarkable span of ruins from days of former glory. Both are a short metro ride from Tunis. 

To reach the Sahara, take a louage (shared minivan) down to Douz for a sandy excursion. From here, experience a night in a traditional Bedouin camp.

Make time for a visit to the extraordinary Kairouan and the Great Mosque, founded over 13 centuries ago.

Return to Tunis for most onward travel options. It’s probably around this time you’ll be thinking about when your next Tunisian adventure might be.

That’s one week, and no less than THREE different Unesco World Heritage Sites!

1 Month in Tunisia: A Legendary Loop

For those with longer on the road, the range of historical sites and natural wonder on offer could fill a month or more.

This itinerary forms a loop from Tunis , hugging the coast through the beachside hangouts of Sousse and Monastir , and the marvellous Amphitheatre of El Jem . 

Explore the southern region’s Berber culture of Matmata and Douz,  and of course, the Sahara itself. 

Check out Touzeur and the abandoned villages nearby. Then head North to magical Kairouan and its Great Mosque, on the way to Sousse for another medina wander.  

Finally, spend a couple of days in the Beja governorate for some scenic sights and a glimpse into life in Antiquity. (Plus pomegranates. And if it’s October, a festival celebrating pomegranates.)

Return back to Tunis to round off the circuit with a mooch around Carthage and ridiculously attractive Sidi Bou Said . 

Best Places to Visit in Tunisia

These are the backpacking Tunisia destinations that you just shouldn’t miss…

And if you can – do take your time. Tunisia is a fantastic place to slow travel .

Backpacking Tunis

Tunis is a marvellous blend of old and new.

Get lost in a maze of alleyways in the medina , explore the souks and shop for souvenirs, before settling into a rooftop cafe for sunset. For a capital, Tunis is very walkable, and locals will help you in the right direction.  

Check out the Bardo Museum , brimming with Roman mosaics, and the Zitouna Mosque, ( although non-Muslims aren’t able to enter inside). 

The Royal Mausoleum Of Tourbet El Bey is one of the most incredible sights I’ve ever seen. Ushered inside from a quiet side street, we entered a network of rooms covered in intricate Ottoman decoration. Here, many Husainid Dynasty rulers are laid to rest in marble tombs.  

Also, be sure to make time for a trip out to these ‘suburbs’, easily reachable from the heart of Tunis:

In Carthage , the archeological ruins of a powerful trading empire are not to be missed. On a very affordable ticket, you can access seven fantastic sites including the Roman Villas and the Baths of Antoninus (my personal favourite.)

Nearby Sidi Bou Said is genuinely stunning. It’s a beautiful seaside town, with buildings of white and brilliant blue, where you can enjoy panoramic views for lunch. Peruse the decorative doors found throughout the town, then head to the beach and paddle board through the sunset (rentals available from ‘Lucky Boy’s .’) 

If you’re after some weekend nightlife, head to Gammarth! You’ll find what feels best described as a little ‘clubbing village’, with a super friendly atmosphere. There’s an awesome selection of bars and clubs pumping music from reggae to hard rock. And it’s right by the beach, so you can round the night off with a swim if you feel so inclined.

Backpacking Douz

Douz, a.k.a. ‘ the gateway to the Sahara, ‘  is a town set amongst palm trees, and a former stop on Trans-Saharan caravan routes. Today, it’s the ideal launching point for desert trips. 

In Douz itself, you can pick between luxury hotels and simple camps, tailored to your budget.  You’ll find options to continue south by camel, jeep, quad bike and more. Even taking to the skies with some  ‘ultralight flying’ is a possibility.  

Heading into the desert, you’ll look out over the vast Chott El-Jerid, the largest salt pan in the Saharan. 

Most travellers will opt for an overnighter in the desert, an excellent way to appreciate both the natural beauty of the environment, and gain insight into traditional Bedouin life. Dig into some cous-cous and settle in by the campfire for a truly magical experience.

Backpacking Gabes and Matmata

Gabes is a pretty unique place, home to one of the last remaining coastal oases in the world. Unless coastal oases are your thing (sincerely hoping there’s an enthusiast out there), the biggest attraction to the area is the Berber village of Matmata .

Explore the ‘troglodyte’ houses, cave dwellings, and discover why Matmata has made its way into two editions each of both Star Wars and Call of Duty. There’s a compact but informative museum behind Hotel Sidi Driss (a.k.a. the Lars Homestead).

Backpacking Kairouan

Kairouan is a must-see focal point of ancient Tunisia. It’s a majestic town of great importance, both in Tunisia and the Islamic world. Built in 670AD, the Great Mosque served as an epicentre of worship and education for centuries to come, and today is home to the oldest surviving minaret in the world. It is a truly impressive masterpiece.

Shopkeepers to the West side of the Great Mosque have rooftops with fantastic views over its courtyard (some may expect you to buy a souvenir in exchange for the benefit). 

Kairouan has long been famous for its sublime craftsmanship, making it Tunisia’s carpet capital. You can find some incredible pieces for very reasonable prices, their designs rich in symbolism. Keep an eye out for the Kairouan Cross.

Like in Carthage, a single ticket grants access to a range of sites. A highlight of these was the Mosque Sidi Sahbi, with its endless beautiful artistry.

Note : Louages directly to Tunis are available, but onward travel to El Jem requires a change in Sousse.

Backpacking El Jem

Introducing the Rome Colesseum’s cooler cousin: the Amphitheatre of El Jem. 

This small village was once home to gladiatorial battles of epic proportions, with crowds of 35,000 marvelling at the spectacle.

Spend some time exploring its underground network of tunnels and ‘beast cages’. You’ll be pretty much free to roam all over one of the biggest amphitheatres on Earth. 

There’s not a lot else to do except chill out in a nearby cafe and enjoy watching the camels roll on by. For the Amphitheatre alone, El Jem is undoubtedly worth a visit.

(Note: El Jem is on the direct train line between Tunis and Gabes, but onward travel to Kairouan by louage requires a change in Sousse).

Backpacking Sousse

Sousse is fascinating: you’ll find an exemplary medina (another UNESCO World Heritage Site) and some stupendous front doors.

Check out ‘ Bab El Gharbi’ –  the Western Door to the medina – and ‘Souk el Caied’, an historic area of the market. 

The Ribat of Sousse contains an inscription from the year 821, with impressive towers and walled construction. It’s a rather novel place, being an early Islamic city with a coastal kasbah (fortress) to protect it from piracy in the Med…

You may come across some very friendly ‘tour guides’ around the medina. I seem to recall ending up in a factory surrounded by thousands of Tunisian police jackets. Just be clear if you do not wish to pay for guiding services.

Backpacking Monastir

Monastir is an absolute gem of the Tunisian coast.

Pristine beaches reach far from the town, with ample sun to bask in. While home to a range of excellent holidaying provisions, Monastir is an ancient city. Its colossal ribat dates all the way back to the 9th century, vital in protecting the peninsula from oncoming enemy ships. Nowadays it’s just the occasional rogue pedalo from Sicily.

Lounge on the beach, sample the seafood, and stroll the marina, admiring the yachts. Make time for the Habib Burguiba Museum and the mighty mosaic collection there. And if you’ve ever seen Monty Python’s Life of Brian , some parts may seem familiar.

Backpacking Beja Governorate 

I’ve called this section Beja Governorate, because while Beja itself is pretty interesting, it’s the surrounding areas within reach from the city that are especially special.

Dougga was inhabited across periods of Berber, Roman and Arab control. It’s an unbelievably well-preserved example of life long-gone; like visiting a great aunt and finding tins of beans from a previous century, but on steroids (the ancient artefacts, not your aunty).  Explore the city ruins on foot, taking in the forum, baths, arches, marketplace and much, much more. You could try hitching; most visitors take a taxi from Beja or Tunis.

Beja Bridge is a much younger but still impressive structure, stretching between hilltops in the rolling countryside. Again, hitching here would definitely be an option, lying just 10km outside o Beja city.  Half an hour northeast of Dougga, you’ll find Testour .

This small town, oozing Spanish influence, is set in the hills against a wonderful green backdrop. If you’re lucky enough to be here in October, you may just catch the annual Testour Pomegranate Festival, which has placed the town firmly on the pomegranate map (if such a thing exists).

A Side Note for Star Wars Fans…

I’ll be honest, sci-fi is not my forte. But when I showed this list to a mate who knows his ewoks from his lightsabers, he seemed suitably impressed.

Tunisia is home to many Star Wars filming locations that fans can visit, including:

• Mos Espa – Located near Tozeur, this is where the slave quarters in Episode I: The Phantom Menace were filmed.
• Ksar Ouled Soltane – This fortified granary near Tataouine was used as a backdrop for the slave quarters in Episode IV: A New Hope.
• Matmata – The underground Troglodyte homes of Matmata were used as the filming location for Luke Skywalker’s childhood home on the planet of ‘Tatooine’ in Episode IV. (The planet itself was inspired by the Southern city of ‘Tataouine’, its name adapted by Lucas.)
• Medenine – The town of Medenine served as the filming location for the exterior of the home of Anakin Skywalker in Episode I.
• Onk Jemal – This salt lake near Tozeur was used for the podrace scenes in Episode I. These locations offer fans a chance to immerse themselves in the world of the Star Wars saga and experience the unique Tunisian landscapes that contributed greatly to the films.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Tunisia

In Tunisia, I would urge you to venture boldly, to places Google Maps’ Street View hasn’t made it to. Conveniently, this is practically everywhere.

As an underrated paradise for off the beaten path travel, getting off the tourist track is easy as. I’m convinced Tunisia would be an ideal country for hitchhiking around; walking through the countryside in Beja Governerate, I had all manner of vehicle (and animal) driver stop for a chat and offer a lift. 

Bikes, tractors, cars, donkeys; getting off the beaten track is Tunisia is one mighty adventure. 

You could try catching a train to a ‘random’ stop between well-known destinations, or scouting out cool places on longer louage journeys. People from more rural spots are likely to be super keen to show you their hometown, with unrivalled Tunisian hospitality.

Top Things to Do in Tunisia

Don’t visit Tunisia without checking off these must-sees…

1. Sleep in the Sahara!

Embark on a dreamy adventure into the heart of the Sahara . Spend an afternoon under the Saharan sun, or get stuck into a multi-day getaway. Sleep in a Bedouin-style tent or outside, under the stars. Whether you opt for a camel, jeep, quad bike or your own two feet, it’s bound to be an unforgettable foray amongst the dunes.  

2. Visit The Amphithreatre of El Jem 

It’s like the one in Rome but different. 

The Amphitheatre of El Jem is a sight to see. Marvel at the superbly preserved infrastructure that has stood the test of time, surviving seventeen centuries to be here today. It’s not hard to envisage scenes of immense scale and ferocity, when reading about the gladiators and animals battling here for the purpose of entertainment.

3. Dig into some Tunisian cuisine

Tuna. Harissa. Olives. Three inescapable tenets of Tunisian life. Whether or not these flavours tickle your fancy, you’re guaranteed to find some downright incredible dishes on any Tunisian menu. Sampling a range of local delicacies across the country is a pastime worthy of your hard-earned Dinar.

4. Wander aimlessly around Tunis Medina 

Go and get lost. With over 700 monuments in the medina arena, you’re bound to stumble across something remarkable. The area is a composite of souks, mosques, mausoleums and more, guaranteed to satisfy your intrigue. 

5. Lay eyes on the Great Mosque of Kairouan

Wandering and chatting your way through Kairouan, you naturally pick up on a sense of stature surrounding the place. The town is incredibly symbolic for Muslims, held as the fourth most holy city in Islam. For those that are unable to make it to Mecca itself, seven trips here is considered equivalent. Laying eyes on the Great Mosque is truly special. 

6. Explore Sidi Bou Said and Carthage

In most cities, a day in the ‘suburbs’ may not sound too invigorating. Tunis is different.

Sidi Bou Said is as picturesque as anywhere, a maze of blue and white houses, overlooking a tremendous beach for both paddleboarding and cotching. The ruins of Carthage are rather awesome and not to be missed. Take the TGM for a top day out.

Backpacker Accommodation in Tunisia

Now, when it comes to budget accommodation in Tunisia, there’s not a huge hostelling scene…

However, it is incredibly encouraging to see two BRAND NEW abodes appear on Hostelworld in early 2023 in Tunis and Djerba – here’s to hoping this is the start of a hostelling revolution in Tunisia. 

Outside of these places, you’ll most likely be scouting out a guesthouse of your liking, many of which are very affordable.

We’re not talking Asia cheap, but there are certainly options around for Broke Backpackers.

And for the occasional ‘cheat night’, upping the budget slightly will unlock some magnificent places to stay…

Tunisia Backpacking Costs

Tunisia is an underrated gem for cheap and incredible adventures !

Particularly when you consider its proximity to Western Europe, costs for all backpacker basics are very reasonable. If you know where to look, there is some splendid food available for super low prices, and taking the louage won’t set you back a great deal.

Budget accommodation may sometimes appear elusive, but there are very cheap options around. Seek, and you shall find.

Tickets to main attractions are also extremely good value. You can be amongst some of the most incredible archaeological sites in the world, for less than the price of a Starbucks.

If you’re ever feeling like ‘splashing out’, sampling an upmarket eating establishment will absolutely not break the bank and there are  some pretty fancy options.

Plus, if you want to go the whole hog and throw in some hitchhiking, couchsurfing or camping, you really could explore Tunisia on a shoestring budget…

A Daily Budget in Tunisia

Money in tunisia.

To get your first plate of cous cous, you’re going to need to get your hands on some Tunisian Dinar.  At the moment, one Dinar is worth approximately 3 US dollars.

You may see the abbreviation DT, occasionally TD, or TND. Same thing; these are all references to the local dinero.

For some prices, particularly on the low end, you’ll see a number followed by several zeros. This is just to show the ‘milim’ (thousandth) denomination for extra precision. Don’t panic, that chapati omelette is still an absolute bargain.

There’s also a coin in circulation with THIRTEEN flat sides. As far as I can tell, only the Czech Republic can claim to match it. Some excellent coinage to be found in Tunisia. 

You can’t take Dinar out of the country though, so enjoy examining them while you can. 

ATMs are pretty easy to find, but charge a few dollars for withdrawal, so it’s best to take out reasonably large chunks at a time. Otherwise, you can exchange currencies without much hassle (US dollars being the most simple).

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends  Wise  – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks. But the real question is…  is it better than Western Union? Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips – Tunisia on a Budget

As seen in the daily budget above, you could spend quite a hefty sum in Tunisia, living a life of absolute luxury.

Rest assured, however: with a few tips and trips, you’ll be able to keep expenses very low if that’s a priority, and have an unforgettable adventure. 

In fact, I strongly believe that following any of these, at least on occasion, will lead to a much richer travel experience than splashing out on fancy hotels every night.

• Eat local street food. Street food is incredibly affordable if you know where to look. We’re talking lunch for less than a dollar. Rest assured, you won’t being going hungry. Seek out the likes of chapati omelette, leblebi, and brika (more on these to follow).
• Hitchhiking. Don’t get me wrong, the louages, buses and trains are very well priced. But for an extra dose of both adventure and savings, Tunisia would be awesome for thumbing lifts. I recall turning down many offers because I was enjoying walking. It certainly seemed catching a ride wouldn’t take much waiting in a lot of places.
• Couchsurfing. There are no less than 60,000 hosts listed on Couchsurfing within Tunisia! You’re likely to make new mates and be treated extremely well as a guest, while keeping costs down.
• Workaway. There are some beaut looking Workaways in Tunisia. Most involve helping out for a few hours a day in exchange for a bed and board, while garnering unique insight into everyday life in Tunisia.

Why Should You Travel to Tunisia with a Water Bottle?

As travellers, we have a joint responsibility to reduce the environmental impact of our excursions, and plastic waste is one of the biggest problems facing countries across the globe.

While local water quality has improved greatly in Tunisia, for peace of mind, travelling with a water filter is a wise move. There’s no better option than the Grayl Geopress: this water bottle and filter system removes all manner of threat, including viruses and heavy metals – no mean feat. 

It’ll last for years, reduce plastic waste, and save you money. The Grayl Geopress is a sound investment for any intrepid adventurer.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time to Travel to Tunisia

Beach lovers are in for a treat: there’s an abundance of sunrays to be sought in Tunisia, and swimmable water temperatures for most of the year. Just don’t accidentally backstroke into Libya. 

The best times for a Tunisia trip are probably around the fringes of summer. Spring and early Autumn mean the North is still very pleasantly warm and beach days are comfy, while the desert isn’t stiflingly hot, like in the peak of Summer. 

In fact, most desert excursions won’t run from June to September; the heat around this time does not sound remotely enjoyable. You’d be sweating like ( insert favourite unacceptable innuendo). Plan accordingly to fulfil any Saharan dreams. 

The months from October to May inclusive are optimal for Tunisia trips, if you want to have all options on the table during your travels. 

What to Pack for Tunisia

You won’t need to add anything too out of the ordinary to your backpacking packing list .

On the clothes front, just pack some stuff that’s both loose and cool (temperature-wise; I’m not here to judge on fashion.) Tunisia is liberal compared to other Arabic nations, but it’s a good idea to make an effort to dress more conservatively – outside of Tunis especially – with some long sleeves and trousers. 

Also throw in a warm layer or two for a night amongst the Saharan zephyr. 

As always, investing in some trusty gear will improve life on every backpacking trip, and last ages. Here’s a pick of the bunch:

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Staying Safe in Tunisia

Yes – there are some regions best left alone – but on the whole, Tunisia really feels safe to travel.

I consistently felt the Tunisian people were always there to help, and never felt at risk.

Tunisia was the catalyst for the emergence of the Arab Spring in 2011, and heralded as a relative success story from this period of immense change.

However, 2015 saw three tragic incidents occur, when terrorist shootings in Sousse and Tunis led to a significant loss of life. Since then, much work has been done on improving safety and security, and thankfully nothing like the tragedy of  2015 has occurred in the aftermath.

It’s important to contextualize terrorism risk. Even countries like the United Kingdom have not escaped terrible incidents over the last decade. Personally, I believe Tunisia is a safe country to travel to, and the overwhelming majority of trips to Tunisia will be filled with kindness and a very warm welcome. 

Be a bit sensible and follow your usual travel safety tips , though: the borders with Libya and Algeria should be avoided, as should the vicinity of any protests. 

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Tunisia

Tunisia may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of wild nights out.

While a relatively new development, there is an excellent party scene in Tunis. Many young Tunisians like to go out on the toon. My mate even found her way to a desert rave, which looked highly exuberant…

Being a predominantly Muslim country, most people don’t consume alcohol. It is available for sure, but there are restrictions, and we should make efforts to be cognizant of cultural norms. As such, alcohol sales are restricted on Fridays in most places, and during Ramadan. 

Cannabis is the most commonly used drug, but laws are tight – as of a few years ago, something like a quarter of all prisoners were being locked up for drug offences. Personally, I’d avoid the drug scene while in Tunisia, but if you do decide to risk it great caution should be urged.

Tunisia is forging an accommodating compromise, whereby tourists and locals can drink their way through the witching hour if they so please, with a tea or cool lager.

But just remember to be respectful . Tunisia is a very welcoming country, and really quite liberal compared to other Arabic societies, so let loose and have a blast with the locals, but be mindful in your jollification…

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Tunisia

Now, it may not be the most thrilling part of trip planning, but getting properly insured BEFORE travelling is a wise addition to any backpacking to-do list. 

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How to Get Into Tunisia

Tunisia is very well connected by air, with flights running every day from across Europe and beyond. Most flights will go into Tunis Carthage airport, but there are also options to fly directly into the likes of Monastir, Djerba and Sfax.

Another great option is to sail from Europe across to Tunis – there are several options from Italy (Palermo, Genoa, and Salerno) and France, with 5 weekly crossings departing from Marseille.

Don’t expect a luxury cruise liner, but voyage by boat is a very exciting way to arrive in North Africa. It’s affordable – especially for budget backpackers who don’t fork out on a cabin –  and tickets can be booked online.  

(One word of advice – don’t turn up late for check-in. To no avail, a good-natured Tunisian policeman called the ferry captain, who replied: “ you know how you have a Plan A and a Plan B? Well, it’s now time for Plan B.” Next boat leaves Wednesday…)

Entry Requirements for Tunisia

More dreamy news – travellers from most countries can receive a visa on arrival, free of charge! 

Check your government’s travel guidance for relevant details, but for lots of travellers,  the Tunisia visa on arrival is valid for three months! 

The government also recently announced the removal of all Covid-19- related requirements, such as proof of vaccination or recent testing.

Apparently going through passport control at Tunis Airport isn’t the most pleasant experience, but stay strong. It’ll all be worth it.

Officially, you need to provide an address for your initial stay on arrival, but it’s luck of the draw whether this is questioned. I’d just recommend having the address of a hotel lined up to provide if requested.

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How to Get Around Tunisia

Trains, camels, quad bikes, to name a few. Tunisia has some brilliant transportation, the shining star of which is undoubtedly the louage. Read on for the low-down on how to plan your trip …

While journeys may take a smidgen longer than planned, and/or be a bit toasty, the locals in Tunisia will make sure you get to wherever you’re heading. 

Travelling By Louage In Tunisia

I genuinely loved these. So bloody much. 

In most Tunisian towns and cities, you’ll find a building or area, full of minivans. These are louage stations.

Every day, hundreds of these vans ferry people back and forth between settlements, forming a network that links nearly all areas of the country together. 

You turn up at the station and buy a ticket, at the ticket counter. (In smaller places, it may be an individual roaming between vehicles, or in the louage itself.) The big stations may appear rather Byzantine, but there are signs showing the destination of each louage, and you’ll be helped on your merry way. 

One thing to note: the driver will wait until all seats on the van are filled before setting off. This is usually pretty quick, but can take a while on routes-less-travelled. 

On longer forays across the country, you’ll likely have a break for some grub. These pitstops in potentially more remote places were super cool experiences. When travelling with Tunisians, friendliness, warmth and good food abounds.  

As you’d expect, not all towns are connected directly by louage. For example, to travel between Kairouan and El Jem, one must change first in Sousse. Ask around at the station for optimal routing choices. 

Travelling By Train In Tunisia

Train travel in Tunisia is superb. 

You can see the landscape changing in real-time as you venture down the coast, and tickets are good value.

In Tunis, the ‘TGM’ runs from the city centre to La Marsa, with stops at places like Carthage and Sidi Bou Said en route. This is a fantastic way to get around the capital, and makes the suburbs easily accessible for day trips. Tickets are extremely cheap, and come in the form of a little blue paper slip.

It may be useful to visualise your travel options in Tunisia, so click here for a map of the railway network run by SNCFT, and here for the timetables of scheduled departures. Advance warning, however: do not expect Japanese-style punctuality. On longer journeys in particular, you may end up hanging around for a while with delays, but just settle in with some snacks and watch the world go by. 

And if delays do cause you any difficulty, locals will help you out. For example, arriving late in Sousse, a gentleman asked where I was headed. He insisted I share his taxi, which he rerouted for a drop-off at some budget accommodation, and refused point blank to accept any monetary contribution for the trouble. True hospitality. 

During your Tunisia trip, taking to the railways at least once is a must. 

Onwards Travel from Tunisia

Unfortunately, onward travel by land from Tunisia is rather limited by its proximity to unstable neighbouring Libya…

Tunisia’s only other border, shared with Algeria, has reopened since Covid, but all travel to this area is advised against by most governments.

If you’d like to continue on an African Odyssey, there are reasonably cheap flight options available across the North, to Morocco or Egypt, perhaps Mauritania or even beyond.

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Working and Volunteering in Tunisia

Volunteering is a brilliant way to have a positive impact while on your travels and immerse yourself in real Tunisian life. You’re likely to make special connections, help drive real change, and save money. Helping out on a locally-led project can be a real win-win situation for both volunteers and hosts.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

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Tunisian Culture

Tunisian culture is a unique intermingling of Mediterranean, Arabic, and African influences. Being predominantly Muslim, Islam plays a large role in everyday Tunisian life, as does the value of family.

The region, originally inhabited by Berber tribes, has had parts ruled by Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Ottomans and French, to name a few. It’s been home to cities of trade for vast empires, numerous bloody wars, and was mainly Christian for centuries before transitioning towards a Muslim society. The result today is an incredibly rich cultural landscape. 

You’ll find an eclectic range of sights to see, food to sample, and people to learn from. Many of the ruins in Tunisia beautifully showcase what life might have been like in a civilisation so different from our own. The best examples are in Carthage and Dougga, the latter a supremely preserved settlement from Berber, Roman and Punic times.

In terms of cuisine, Tunisians proudly hang on to the spicy legacy of their Arab influence. Seriously, you may want to ask them to go easy on the harissa. Seriously. That stuff can cause damage.

By wandering around practically anywhere in Tunisia, you can sense the history of the place. The large mosaics, intricate weavings on carpets, and decorative front doors all point to its illustrious past. In addition, Tunisian life is underpinned by a culture of hospitality and goodwill, that you’re bound to uncover.

Simply get stuck in: delve into the history, artwork, poetry and music. There’s a quite magical heritage to be found practically everywhere. 

Useful Travel Phrases for Tunisia

Learning a bit of the language (Tunisian Arabic) can be useful before your trip…

Hello = A – sleh – ma

Goodbye = bi – sle – ma

How are you? = le – be -ss?

Good, thanks! = le – be – ss!

Yes = ay / naam

Please = aish – ik

Thank you = aish – ik

Sorry = asif (from male) asifa (from female)

No problem = mush mushkil

I would like = n’ Hib

I would not like = ma n’ Hib-sh

Can I have___ = mumkin ___

Where is ___? = Way-n ___?

What to Eat in Tunisia

Can’t lie, I’m usually not a huge fan of two-thirds of that set. But somehow, in Tunisia, it just works. There’s some sensational grub to dig into.

Of course, this ingredient list isn’t exhaustive, but you’ll find these quite a lot throughout the Tunisian culinary scene. Harissa is a paste, blended from a range of spices and herbs including chilli, garlic and cumin,. UNESCO names it as part of Tunisia’s ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’: it’s very, very popular throughout the land.   

Like so many other things in Tunisia, the cuisine has been sculpted by numerous cultural influences from its history. The main features, however, are hearty stews , some grilled meats and vegetables, and a healthy dose of spices .

Do your insides a favour, and ask for a modest allocation of harissa for your first outing, and work your way up from there. Sadly, I could never hack it like the Tunisians, but it was still bloody delicious.

Street food stalls are a top place to investigate the local delicacies, and are super cheap. Given the variation in climate and culture, Tunisian food can change greatly between regions, so asking locally for pointers in the right direction on the menu can be fruitful. 

Look out for some of these popular options below which are certainly worth sampling, but don’t be afraid to get stuck into some untranslatable soup or seemingly improbable flavour combination. It may well become a firm favourite.   

Popular Dishes in Tunisia

• Cous-cous : A Tunisian and North African staple, made of steamed semolina. Usually served with stewed meat, vegetables (and of course, some harissa.)
• Lablabi : Another staple. Chickpea stew, heavy on the garlic and cumin, topped with egg and bread. Can be an acquired taste. 
• Kafteji : A hearty dish packed with fried vegetables, sometimes topped with fried egg and/or merguez (Maghrebi lamb sausage). And harissa. Obviously.
• Brik : Very popular, often an appetiser. Thin pastry encasing some kind of filling in a triangular formation. Cheese, egg, meat, tuna. It varies. 
• Ojja : This is a top, top feed. Hearty, thick, soupy, tomato-based dish with eggs and vegetables. Often served with merguez. And harissa.
• Chapati Omelette : Chapati, but not as you know it. Thick, round pieces of bread, served warm and fresh, hugging an omelette. IMHO, the best cheap lunch in the land.

A Brief History of Tunisia

I’ll keep it brief, but this section could have been encyclopaedically long. With a rich history that spans thousands of years, there’s a lot to be uncovered. 

This land has seen the rise and fall of whopping great empires, and its history is evident in its diversity.

Rewind a long way. 

Tunisia is inhabited by Berber tribes, but later becomes part of the Phoenician Empire, a powerful city-state to rival Rome.

During the Roman era, Tunisia flourished as a province of the Empire. The grandeur of Roman ambition is in full view at the ruins of Dougga and El Jem’s imposing colosseum. 

In the 7th century, Tunisia came under Arab rule, and Islam became the dominant religion. The medinas of cities like Tunis, Sousse, and Kairouan boast beautiful examples of Islamic architecture, such as the Great Mosque of Kairouan, one of the oldest mosques in Africa. 

In the Middle Ages, Tunisia was a centre of learning and trade. It housed influences from various cultures, including Arab, Berber, Ottoman (whose empire was at the reigns for a few hundred years) and Andalusian. The medina of Tunis showcases the fusion of different architectural styles, with narrow alleys and intricately designed doors. 

Next to arrive were the French, who conquered in the late 1800s. Tunisia gained its independence from France in 1956 and has since developed a unique modern culture, while preserving its rich history. (As a result, a great deal of the population speak French, so if you can remember any from school days, you’ll be cruising). The markets are known for their souks, where you can find traditional crafts and spices. 

The Arab Spring 

The modern history is no less dramatic. The Tunisian Revolution started in 2011 following street vendor Mohamed Bouazizi tragically setting himself alight, while standing in traffic outside the local governor’s office.

Protests against widespread corruption and inequality grew into a historic uprising. The revolution led to the overthrow of the authoritarian regime and president, sparked similar protests in other Arab countries, and is considered a catalyst for the Arab Spring.

Chatting to Tunisians throughout the country, you will get a real sense of the depth and variety of history that contributes to their completely unique identity.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

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FAQs About Backpacking in Tunisia

Is tunisia safe to visit .

On the whole, Tunisia DOES feel safe to travel.  An overwhelming proportion of people are extremely welcoming. Like everywhere, there are some areas that feel ever so slightly sketchy. The taxi ranks of the ferry port at night may qualify. Don’t be put off. Just be aware.  Tourism in Tunisia saw an understandable decline around 2015, when three tragic incidents occurred in Sousse and Tunis. Since then, things have improved , and the vast, vast majority of visits are trouble-free .  It is wise to avoid the borders with Algeria and Libya (as per most governments’ advice), and not to get stuck into any protests you come across. On the whole, I would be confident that travellers heading to Tunisia will be looked after and embraced with open arms. 

Is Travelling in Tunisia Cheap?

Ah. The Office for Budget Responsibility has arrived. In short, yes. In Tunisia, absolute bargains are plentiful. There’s some really tasty value to be found in the food department, especially if you stick to local dishes and keep a lid on the beer consumption ( most of the time, a Gammarth night out is worth an exception). Follow the tips listed in this guide and Tunisia will remain an extremely affordable travel destination on the proverbial European doorstep. 

When Should I Visit Tunisia?

A trip to Tunisia is worthy of your time, any month of the year. BUT, for desert dreamers, the summer is worth avoiding: most Saharan trips won’t be running from June to August. Therefore, we recommend September to May as optimal . Be aware when booking those tickets.

Final Advice Before Visiting Tunisia

On the road, I’ve met a handful of other travellers who found themselves in Tunisia. They all agreed: it’s a criminally underrated destination, made to measure for budget adventuring.

Remember to be respectful on your exploration! In visiting North Africa, we’re fortunate to be welcomed and experience a culture that may be very different from life back home.

Travelling amidst things like Ramadan requires an adequate dose of cultural sensitivity; in fact, Eid celebrations induce a superb atmosphere to get stuck into. Rest assured; if any questions pop up, just ask. Exploring with a positive attitude soon be repaid with great kindness and warmth.

You may go for the desert and the beach, but want to return for the people. The hospitality on display throughout Tunisia is truly special.

If you’re somehow still on the fence, honestly, just do it!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Medina of Tunis: the ultimate travel guide

This post is about the Medina of Tunis. The Medina of Tunis is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history, vibrant culture, and unique architecture.

Once you enter the maze of narrow alleyways through one of its ancient gates you enter a world of its own. One that is very different from the rest of Tunisia’s capital. 

The Medina of Tunis was one of the highlights of all the things to do in Tunis . I spent an entire day exploring the streets, markets, mosques, palaces and madrassas. With more than 700 ancient monuments, the medina of Tunis deserves its own travel guide. 

The Medina of Tunis

The Medina of Tunis is a journey back in time. The first traces of a settlement and market are from 698 and in 700 the Zaytouna mosque was built over the remains of a Christian basilica. 

This makes the medina of Tunis as old as Tehran Grand Bazaar , which is one of the oldest bazaars in the world. 

A medina in Northern Africa is more than just a market though. The medinas of the Maghreb are fortified mini cities where people have lived, worked and traded since medieval times. 

The Medina of Tunis truly developed from the 12th to the 16th century under the rule of the Almohads and Hafsids. During this time Tunis was one of the greatest cities in the Arab world with one of the largest Islamic universities in the region. 

The Medina of Tunis then became part of the Ottoman empire. The Ottomans had a big influence, building several mosques and palaces. In the 19th century the French built the “Ville Nouvelle” or the New City. While many rich families moved to the newer parts of Tunis, rural immigrants arrived into the medina, keeping its markets alive. 20,000 people still live in the medina of Tunis today. 

Many people say that the medina of Tunis is one of the most beautiful medieval medinas in northern Africa. Personally, I enjoyed the medina of Tunis much more than the ones I visited in Morocco that tended to be touristic and overcrowded. The Medina of Tunis can be busy as well, but you will see few tourists making it a more authentic experience. 

The medina of Tunis with its maze of streets and alleyways is home to covered souks where you can see many artisans at work. From medicinal herbalists, to hatmakers, cobblers, goldsmiths and tailors. A highlight are the brightly painted traditional doors and columns as well as the colorful tiles everywhere. You just keep taking pictures as every corner reveals something new.

How to find you way

It is easy to get lost in the Medina of Tunis when you wander around the streets and alleyways. I would say that this is exactly what you should do, because this is when you will explore and find the hidden gems of the medina of Tunis. 

The medina of Tunis really deserves at least half a day of your time as there is plenty to see and do. Most sites are along the central “Rue Sidi Ben Arous” and “Rue Dar El Jeld”. These streets are helpful in finding your way. 

What to see in the Medina of Tunis 

Bab el bahr.

The Bab el Bahr is the main entrance gate that now divides the modern part of Tunis from the old Medina. Almost everyone starts their journey into the medina at this gate, also known as the French gate. The French actually demolished parts of the outer walls to create”place de la victoire”. 

Bab = Bab is the Arabic word for door or gateway. 

Place de la Victoire

Place de la Victoire, or Victory square, lies right beyond the Bab el Bahr. This small square is always busy and it is a great place to watch people before delving into the maze of the narrow alleyways of the Medina. 

The Royal Victoria Hotel at the square is now a hotel, but used to be the British embassy. It is one of the more luxurious places to stay in Tunis. The cafe el Medina is a great place to have a coffee or a Tunisian mint tea.  

Souq el Berka

One of the most vibrant and busiest areas of the Medina of Tunis are the different market areas. The Souk el Berka now sells jewelry and gold, but has a darker past.  

This souk used to be the slave market where slaves from West Africa and even Europe were sold. The Arab slave trade in Tunisia continued up till 1846. Tunis was an important stop for trade caravans that brought slaves from West Africa through Mali and Libya to Tunis and further on to Egypt and the Levant. 

Souq = market area or bazaar

Souq el Blat 

One of the most interesting souks is the Souq el Blat where medicinal herb sellers sell local plant medicines. You will see bundles of leaves including wild thyme, sage, eucalyptus and garlic.

The souq is over 700 years old and the knowledge on how to pick and prepare the medicinal herbs is passed down from generation to generation. Some only sell plant medicines, others also sell lucky charms to ward off the evil eye. You might see turtle shells, hedgehog carcasses or crushed iguana powder. It is the best place to learn more about the spiritual beliefs that still have a big influence in Tunisian society. 

Souq el Attarine

The Souq el Attarine specializes in perfume and beauty products such as henna, rose water and jasmine. This part of the medina is very close to some of the medina’s most important historic sights such as the Zaytouna mosque. 

Zaytouna mosque

The Al Zaytouna mosque is the oldest mosque in the medina of Tunis. One legend is that the mosque is built over the ruins of a Byzantine church dedicated to Saint Olivia. 

Olivia was a Christian Saint from Palermo in Sicily. In Tunis she performed several miracles and converted people to the Christian faith for which she was arrested and beheaded at the young age of 15.

Legend goes that her tomb still lies under the Zaytouna mosque and that when her body will be disturbed or relocated something bad will happen. Locals believe it could mean the end of Islam. 

Hammouda Pasha mosque

The Hammouda Pasha mosque dates back to the Ottoman period. It is therefore no surprise that some of its design will remind you of mosques in Istanbul or Sarajevo . 

Tunisia was part of the Ottoman empire from the 16th till the 19th century. Hammouda Pasha was the second Ottoman ruler or Bey.

Hammouda Pasha brought peace and order to Tunis and constructed many buildings in the medina of Tunis. Besides the Hammouda Pasha mosque, he also built a hospital, souks and palaces. 

Bey = Turkic title for chieftain or ruler

Dar Hammouda Pasha

The Dar Hammouda Pasha is one of the palaces that Hammouda Pasha built for himself when he ruled over Tunisia.  

It is the palace where he first lived with his wife and children, before moving to the newer palace of Dar el Bey

You can recognize the palace from its beautiful yellow door. It was home to a restaurant, but the building is now closed to the public. 

Dar = arabic word for house or palace

As Hammouda Pasha got older he gave Dar Hammouda Pacha to one of his sons and moved to the newer and larger palace of Dar el Bey. It lies in a more quiet and upmarket part of the medina of Tunis. Nowadays it is the main office for the head of the Tunisian government. 

Dar El Jeld

The Dar El Jeld is a historic building that was the administration of the Ottoman Beys. It was renovated to become one of the best and most popular Tunisian restaurants in the medina of Tunis. 

Sidi Youssef Dey mosque

The Sidi Youssef Dey mosque was the first Ottoman mosque in the medina of Tunis. Dey is the Turkic title for a military commander

While the Bey had the highest position, the Dey also had a lot of power in practice. Sidi Youssef Dey also built many souks in the medina of Tunis. 

Dey = Turkic title for military commander 

Tourbet el Bey

The Tourbet el Bey is the mausoleum where the Ottoman Bey of the Husainid dynasty are buried. There are different funerary chambers with the Bey, their families and other important ministers and servants. 

The rooms contain marble tombs and the walls are beautifully decorated with colorful tiles. The architecture and design has many similarities with the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. 

Madrassa Slemania

The Madrassa Slemania was the first madrassa to be built by the Ottomans in the medina. The beautiful entrance with elegant decorations gives access to a nice and small courtyard. 

Madrassa = Islamic school to study Islam and the Quran

Hammam al Kacharina

The Hammam Al Kacharina is one of the few ancient bathhouses in the medina of Tunis that still operates. You will recognize the bright yellow and red door that is the entrance. When I was in Tunis, the hammam was closed so I couldn’t go. From what I have heard it is a rather local rustic experience. The staff do not speak English. 

Hammam = bathhouse

Zaouia of Sidi Mehrez

Sidi Mehrez is the patron saint of Tunis. Sunni muslims believe he was a descendant from the father in law of the prophet Muhammad. He was a teacher and wrote books about Islam. His mausoleum is popular among women who visit the tomb to pray for a happy marriage and many children.  

Zaouia = A Sufi place of worship

Zaouia of Wali Sidi Ben Arous

Sidi Ben Arous was a 13th century scholar and religious leader. He became a wali for his help to the poor. His tomb is beautifully decorated and has a small prayer room where locals come to pray. 

Wali = Islamic saint

Try Tunisian Food

Tunis is a great city to try authentic Tunisian food. Tunisian cuisine is a delicious and diverse fusion of Mediterranean, North African, and Middle Eastern flavors. Its aromatic dishes often include spices and herbs such as cumin, coriander, saffron, cinnamon, paprika, and harissa (a spicy chili paste).

No Tunisian meal is complete without Harissa . It’s a paste from crushed red chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and various spices. Restaurants give it as a starter with some bread, but it’s also the main ingredient in many marinades and sauces.

The medina of Tunis is an excellent place to try Tunisian street food. There are plenty of stalls selling sandwiches with your choice of filling. The Tunisian Malfouf is a delicious flatbread with a number of ingredients. Popular fillings include tuna, harissa and egg. The Fricassee is the same idea but uses fried doughnuts as a sandwich.

Bambalouni are also deep fried doughnuts, but they are a sweet snack. They’re often sprinkled with powdered sugar and can be enjoyed as a sweet treat any time of day.

One of my personal favourite street foods was Brik. A deep-fried pastry with a crispy exterior and a savory filling of egg, potato and parsley.

At last, you should try Lablabi . This chickpea soup is flavored with garlic, cumin and olive oil and is a popular streetfood served with bread.

Tunis also has great restaurants. You will find Tajine and Couscous on the menu. I found them a bit more spicier than in Morocco, probably because of the use of Harissa. Given the country’s coastal location, seafood is also a culinary highlight.

Medina of Tunis travel tips

Where to stay.

Budget : There are not really any hostels in Tunis. I stayed at the Hotel metropole residence that falls in the budget category in Tunis. It is a decent hotel close to the medina. Rooms are simple, but nice. 

Midrange : If you want to stay in a traditional house inside the Medina I can recommend Dar Ben Gacem that has good reviews.

Luxury : For a more upmarket experience in a traditional house in the heart of the medina you can stay at the Dar El Jeld Hotel and Spa . 

Where to eat

Tunisian cuisine has a unique blend of Mediterranean and North African flavors, and there are many delicious dishes. Tunis has lots of restaurants to try Tunisian food.

Restaurant of people : this small restaurant near the Bab el Bahr gate serves cheap and filling sandwiches with grilled meat. I recommend the Tunisian style shoarma roll with harissa spread. 

Dar Belhadj: an upmarket restaurant in a traditional home with beautiful decor. They have delicious couscous and other Tunisian specialties.  

Cafe Panorama : Cafe Panorama offers the best views over the medina. It also offers nice cups of tea, including a special mint tea with walnuts and almonds. 

When to visit 

The best time to visit Tunis is during the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. During these seasons, temperatures are usually in the mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit), and there is less humidity and rainfall.

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the high 30s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit). Due to climate change there is an increase in heatwaves and droughts during this time. 

Winter (December to February) can be rainy, with temperatures ranging from 10-15 Celsius (50s Fahrenheit). While winter is not the best time to enjoy outdoor activities, it can be a good time to explore indoor attractions such as museums and historical sites.

Disclaimer : This post about the best things to do in the medina of Tunis contains affiliate links. If you buy a service through one of my links, I get a small commission. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

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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…

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• 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?

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 .

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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 🙂

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Tunis travel guide

Tunis is the moden capital of Tunisia, a city of tree-lined boulevards, modern buildings and bustling pavements cafes, with a distinctly European flavour. A different side to its character is evident in its medieval Arab medina (old town), exotic maze of narrow, angled streets lined with tiny shops, grand mosques and impressive palaces.

Easy excursions from Tunis include the ancient city of Carthage, the pretty village of Sidi Bou Saïd and, in the region known as the Tell (from the Arabic word for "mountain"), the Roman sites of Thuburbo Majus and Dougga.

What to see in Tunis

Rue jemaa ez zitouna.

The medina of Tunis is probably the easiest to navigate in all of North Africa. At all the main gates you'll find a large map with the streets clearly named, and there are small orange signposts pointing the way to the principal sights.

Rue Jemaa ez Zitouna is the medina's main street, and is lined with craft shops and souvenir stalls. Fragrant incense and exotic perfumes compete with the mouth-watering smell of roasting mutton and the aroma of freshly ground coffee. The tap-tap-tap of silversmiths' hammers and the scuff of sandled feet on paving stones almost drown out the muezzin's call to prayer. The street disappears into a dark tunnel to emerge at the steps below the door to the Zitouna Mosque.  

Zitouna Mosque

Medina (old town).

The focus of daily life in the medina for over one thousand years, the Zitouna mosque (Mosque of the Olive Tree) was founded in 732 on the site of a temple to Athena. Enlarged and restored many times, the outer wall used stone taken from the ruins of Carthage.

Visitors are allowed to climb the stairs to an arcade facing the central courtyard. The prayer hall is to the left, through a horseshoe arch crowned with a white dome. The square minaret is a 19th-century addition. 

Souk el Attarine (Perfumers' Souk): situated along the north wall of the mosque. Only a few genuine scent-makers remain, for their expensive creations have been displaced by cheaper modern toiletries. You can choose a ready-made scent or have one blended to suit you. 

Souk des étoffes (Drapers): one of the quietest souks, cascades of cloth, kaftans and blankets muffle the haggling of the shopkeepers.

Souk des Tapis (Carpet Maker): a concentration of rug and carpet sellers.

Souk des Orfèvres : a warren of tiny streets and alleys crowded with goldsmiths' and silversmiths' shops. Shop windows glitter with gold, coral, pearls and precious stones.

Souk de la Laine (Wool Market): still contains some traditional tailors and weavers working on hand looms, but the more affluent goldsmiths have begun to encroach into the area. 

Souk des Femmes (Women's Souk): where women come to buy the white or cream fabric they use to make veils. 

Souk el Berka : the original site of the Tunis slave market, closed down in 1841. 

Souk des Chéchias : one of the most attractive spots. Each outlet is a shop-cum-workshop with a wooden counter for sales and a group of intent craftsmen at work on chechias , the tasselled felt hats once worn throughout North Africa and the Middle East.

Mosque and Tomb of Hammouda Pasha

This was built in 1655 and has a pink marble facade. When Turkish governors came to Tunis on the orders of the Ottoman sultan, they brought with them a slightly different form of Islam from that commonly adhered to in Tunisia. The Tunisians lived according to the Malikite rite, while the Turkish conquerors observed the Hanifite.

Aware of this difference, Tunisia's Hammouda Pasha el Mouradi decided to give his mosque a Turkish-style octagonal minaret with a gallery, rather than the square type common to the Maghreb. 

Bardo National Museum

Located in a 19th-century Beyical Palace in the western suburbs, Bardo National Museum is home to many of Tunisia's greatest archaeological treasures and includes relics from every period of the country's rich history, from Carthaginian times to the Islamic period.

The museum's main attractions is its superb collection of Roman mosaics on the first and second floors. They range in age from the 2nd century BC to the 7th century AD and come from all over Tunisia, with fine examples from Sousse, Dougga and El Jem.

The palace the museum occupies was intended to represent the arts and crafts of all the Tunisian provinces, and is a curious blend of traditional Moorish architecture, with slender columns and arcaded courtyards, and European classicism, with gilded colonnades and marble staircases. 

Read our guide to exploring the souks of Marrakech for the first-time

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Read more from the travel guide to Tunisia

Tunis travel guide

Tunis tourism | tunis guide, you're going to love tunis.

Tunis is the capital of Tunisia and is located on the southern shores of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a compact city, with a population of less than 700,000, and is easily explored on foot. The city has many ancient buildings and a captivating mix of North African and French architecture.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Tunis

1. carthage.

The ancient city of Carthage is just outside of Tunis and has some of the most impressive Roman ruins outside of Rome itself.

2. Ancient Ruins

Tunis has lots of ancient sites and they can all be accessed using one very reasonable admission ticket, which costs TND10.

3. The Medina

The souq in the ancient medina of Tunis sells all manner of goods, from spices to fashion. It is probably one of the most relaxed in North Africa but is still an authentic, working market.

4. Belvedere Park

Belvedere Park is home to the National Center for Living Art, a zoo, and the Lake of Tunis, making for a relaxing escape from the city.

5. Zitouna Mosque

This is the largest mosque in Tunisia and dates from the 8th century. Tourists can view this important landmark from a platform for TND3.

What to do in Tunis

1. medina: a unesco world heritage site.

If you'd like to see the glory of one of the Medieval world's greatest civilizations, look no further than the Medina of Tunis. Here, over 700 monuments bear witness to a storied city whose wealth and power was known the world over. From mosques to palaces to fountains, the medina's winding streets will lead you past incredible wonders. Each step offers the chance to learn about the region's history; admire the intricacies of Islamic art and architecture, and get a feel for the way that medinas have been incorporated into modern cities all over the world.

2. National Museum of Bardo: The National Museum of Bardo: Travel Back in Time

The second-largest museum on the continent, this facility is a wonder in and of itself. The building offers unique examples of historic Islamic decorative arts. Meanwhile, the exhibits range from ancient Roman mosaics recovered from Carthage to Greek statues and the artifacts and tools of the region's Berbers. You can also learn about the accomplishments of the Islamic cultures that called the place home. In short, as you walk through the halls you'll pass through millennia in one of the world's most multicultural melting pots: the Mediterranean.

3. Byrsa: Be Blown Away by the View

Byrsa was a citadel upon a cliff overlooking Carthage. Today, it is one of the region's most compelling archaeological zones. The ruined walls of this once-mighty fortress stand above the city and offer spectacular vistas over the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the recent past has brought a mighty Cathedral, as well as the Museum of Carthage, to this location. Today, Byrsa is as much a cultural center as it is a monument. It's an absolute must during your stay in Tunis.

4. Souk El Attarine: Shop with the Locals

Tunis' many souks are still active and cater to both locals and visitors. One of the most interesting ones is the Souk el Attarine. Wander through its halls and you'll pass crowded stands full of aromatic goods such as jasmine and rose water. This perfume and beauty goods souk has regional products that have been traded for centuries, such as amber, as well as more modern cosmetics for sale. Best of all, it is still used by many Tunisians, so it offers a look at the way that locals shop -- good luck getting the local prices, though! If you love haggling, this is certainly the place for you.

5. Sidi Bou Said: Because Vacations Are Also About Relaxing

Perhaps no Tunisian town is more picturesque, more quintessentially Mediterranean, than Sidi Bou Said. This famous village has been a getaway for artists and bohemians for centuries, and a place of pilgrimage for nearly a thousand years. The white and blue walls and decorative doors and stairways of the city make it difficult to imagine that one stands in the real world and not in a painting. It's the ultimate destination for those trying to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Activities & attractions in Tunis

Where to Eat in Tunis

Atlas le Resto serves good local food, such as iftar and fish soup, from TND9.50. Dar el Jeld serves more upmarket Tunisian food in a beautiful covered courtyard, with mains from TND20.

When to visit Tunis

Tunis has a hot Mediterranean climate and summer temperatures can top 116 degrees Fahrenheit. Late fall through to early spring may be more comfortable for visitors.

How to Get to Tunis

Tunis-Carthage Airport (TUN) is only 5 miles from the city center and has good links with Europe. A taxi into the city center will cost around TND5. The number 35 bus will take you into town for just TND0.76 but takes around 30 minutes.

Tunis Central Station on Place de Barcelone is at the center of Tunisia's rail network, with good connections to the country's other cities.

Driving in Tunisia is not recommended for tourists. Roads are fairly poor, signage difficult, and local driving habits can be challenging.

Tunis is at the hub of more than 70 bus lines covering the country. The main stations are at Gare Bab el Fellah and Gare Bab Saadoun.

Airports near Tunis

Airlines serving tunis, where to stay in tunis.

The Grand Hotel de France on Rue Hannibal has good, clean rooms at decent prices, while Dar El Medina is a luxury hotel right in the center of the medina.

Popular Neighborhoods in Tunis

Medina - this is Tunis' old town and is home to the souq and ancient mosque. Its maze of narrow streets requires careful orienteering but has bags of character.

Ville Nouvelle - Ville Nouvelle is the French Colonial new town, with broad avenues and most of the better hotels.

Hammamet - this is a beach resort just outside of the city. It can be easily reached in around one hour in a shared taxi, at a cost of around TND5. Here you will find lots of resort hotels.

Where to stay in popular areas of Tunis

Most booked hotels in tunis, how to get around tunis, public transportation.

Tunis has an extensive public transport network, including trams, subway, and TGM light rail system. Tickets start at TND0.41.

Taxis have an initial meter cost of TND0.40 and then cost around TND3.7 per mile.

Driving in Tunis can be daunting, due to confusing driving habits and intermittent road signage. Car rental costs from around TND385 per day, and you'll find outlets of Sixt and Avis in town.

Best car rental deals in Tunis

2 Adults, 2 Bags

The Cost of Living in Tunis

Shopping streets.

The souq in the medina is the most exciting place to shop for local goods, where you can buy anything from spice to electronics.

Groceries and Other

Tunis has a couple of French supermarkets in Carrefour and Monoprix. A quart of will cost around TND1.13 and a loaf of bread just TND0.32.

Travel in Tunisia – 10 Best Tips for Independent Travellers

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

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

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 Best Tips for Independent Travel in Tunisia

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

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

At the time, 1 USD = 2.9 TND

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

Travel in Tunisia will be easier if you’re connected

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

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

2) Download BOLT Ridesharing App

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6) Drink Only Bottled Water or Bring a LifeStraw

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

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

7) Check Viator to book experiences in Tunisia

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

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

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

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

8) Download XE currency converter

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

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

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

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

The Fascinating Medina in Tunis – 5 Unique Things To Do

African Food Guide – 10 Best Food Countries in AFRICA

AFRICA Food Map – African Food Guide to 54 Countries

9) Exchange your Tunisian Dinars before your departure 

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

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

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

10) Travel Insurance

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

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

Read more about  the 2 Best Travel Insurance Companies

Where to Stay in Tunis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get Connected with eSIM

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

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

Travel Tips for Tunisia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Travel Planning Resources

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

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation.

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🛄 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 .

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💰 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)

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3 Comments . Leave new

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

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

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

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The Ultimate Tunisia and Tunis Travel Guide

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• Last Updated On: August 10, 2022

Tunisia is not a well known destination and is overshadowed by nearby tourist hotspot, Morocco  and maybe a bit of Egypt. . Most people probably couldn’t even pick it out on a map but this small nation in North Africa bordered by the Sahara and the Mediterranean sea is a place full of history and beautiful sights.

Originally, I had no plans to come here as I was headed to Egypt & Jordan , but I had some time to kill and this place seemed to be the only safe place west of Egypt to visit. I spent a week in Tunisia visiting the areas around Tunis and the Sahara south of Tozeur with all its Star Wars set pieces.

Is Tunisia safe?

I started writing this post a few weeks ago and at the time, I was all about writing how safe and misunderstood Tunisia was but with the most recent headline of the terrorist attacks on the Bardo museum ,  I’m aware people will likely cross Tunisia off the list of potential destinations for the foreseeable future.

It’s totally understandable. With ISIS looming large in Syria/Iraq, and the conflicts ongoing in Libya, most people wouldn’t even think about visiting this region.

Thing is, Tunisians are not Arabs, they are a mix of Berber peoples, that should probably be more classified as Mediterranean than Arab. Second, Tunisia is the only standing democracy in the entire region, and were responsible for the Arab Spring, a huge movement in 2011 that spurred pro-democratic movements throughout the Middle East which is likely the reason ISIS attacked Tunis in the first place.

It’s extremely sad to see these attacks in the headlines because it will undoubtedly decimate Tunisia’s already struggling tourism industry that’s been hit hard by the Arab Spring. When I visited in December 2014, I couldn’t speak more highly of how safe I felt, and how nice the Tunisian people were to me. I even visited the Bardo museum too, got ripped off by a cab driver, and the entire museum staff was up in arms about it even though I told them it was okay.

Tourists are not a common sight in Tunis but whenever I needed directions, everyone tried their best to help me despite my mediocre French and their lack of English. People went out of their way, especially in the smaller towns outside of Tunis, to make sure I was enjoying their country.

Not at any point did I feel threatened or out of place. For what it’s worth, similar terrorist attacks happened in Paris at the Charlie Hebdo museum a few months back. Does that change your views about visiting Paris? Probably not right?

Getting In and Around Tunis

Tunis is serviced by Tunis Carthage International Airport. It is a small airport and connects to many of the European capitals and throughout the Middle east. Tunisia has no visa policies and most Western Nationalities can enter in  for free . Where they get you is when you fly out, they require you to pay an exit tax of 20 dinars (~$10).

Upon arrival, skip the hecklers trying to offer you taxis and go straight to the taxi queue outside of the airport. Taxis in Tunis, and Tunisia are  CHEAP . In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a cheaper country before in terms of taxis. They are metered too so no need to worry about being cheated.

I was ready to budget at least $20 for my taxi ride to Tunis. I kept an eye on the meter as I was conversing with the taxi driver in French and I kept thinking there’s no way this taxi can be right. The meter is moving at a snails pace. By the time I reached my hotel in Tunis, the meter read 7.4 dinars, or about $3.50. For a 5km, 20 minute taxi ride!! I gladly tipped him another dinar (~50 cents). My subsequent taxi rides around Tunis never cost me more than 4 dinars (~$2)

There are public transportation options all around Tunis and the metro runs overground connecting most of the city. The fare is about 0.6 dinars a ride but I mean with taxis being as cheap as they are, I hardly bothered with the tram service.

Language in Tunisia

French and Arabic are the official languages of Tunisia. Most people in the cities speak French well and I had little trouble getting around with my hardly serviceable French. English is scarcely spoken and while the younger generation have a better grasp of the language, I would advise picking up a few French phrases or at least downloading Google Translate!

Where to stay in Tunis

Visiting Tunisia was a random spur of the moment thing after a friend I had met traveling around Botswana told me he would be there around the same time. I didn’t do much research thinking there would be an abundance of hostels and cheap accommodations.

Turns out I was completely wrong. Tunisia, and Tunis in particular are untraveled places, and if they are visited, it’s not by the wandering backpacker. There is only one “hostel” in the entire capital that I could find. Everything else is hotels. Prices are not expensive by any means, but I was hoping for the 10-20$ hostels I saw in Europe, but instead, we paid $50+ a night. Not a deal breaker but something to consider if planning on visiting Tunisia.

Here are some recommendations based on price range:

Under $100 a night

• Hotel Carlton
• Dar Traki Medina de Tunis

$100 to $200 a night

• Movenpick Hotel
• Dar Ben Gacia Kahem
• Royal Victoria

Over #200 a night

• Dar El Jed and Spa

Meeting some Libyans

I met a Libyan soccer player staying at my hotel who was in Tunis to get his visas sorted out as the country of Libya had descended into chaos. I found it quite interesting to talk to him as I don’t recall every meeting a Libyan in real life before. Muammar Gaddafi was a bad person and he was overthrown by his people was about the extent I knew about the Libyan civil war but he gave me a completely new perspective on things. I ended up chatting with Fazel for hours and hours, over shisha of course, about life after 2011.

He said Libya used to be the wealthiest nation in Africa (fact) and that his country enjoyed liberties only matched by those of the Scandinavian countries including free healthcare, free schooling, a $5000 cash payment for having a child, free land and resources for those that wanted to start farming, etc.

Now he didn’t call Gaddafi a saint but he said many more people liked him than the media would have you believe. Then again, how many leaders of nations are universally loved by everyone they govern? Rebels that fought Gaddafi were largely led by former Al Qaeda members and the young people that fought were brainwashed into thinking democracy would be a quick implementation. Queue all the conspiracy theories about the West’s intervention, oil, gold currencies, Iraq etc. and I’m sure I could write thousands of words about this but I won’t.

After the war, a lot of people fled Libya and came to Tunisia where their wealth has driven up costs of living for the local Tunisians. He stressed that no one wanted to leave Libya. Their lives were good and people were happy. The left out of necessity and most people that stayed did because they could not afford to leave.

What to Eat?

I think one of my favorite parts of traveling through the Middle East was the abundance of delicious and flavorful food. Tunisia was the start of it all. It’s a blend between Mediterranean and desert-dweller cuisines. Couscous with various meats, vegetables, and spices are the main fare here. Add some spicy harissa sauce to it, which the Tunisians are known for, and I was set for my entire time in Tunisia.

Street food culture is big throughout Tunisia, with shawarma shops EVERYWHERE. As soon as I landed, I roamed the streets looking for chow, and immediately found some by walking into a place serving shawarma. Thin slices of beef or chicken in a wrap with veggies, spices, and harissa would make up most of my diet for the next week.

The Tunisians are also obsessed with eating Tuna. They will either eat it straight up with cheese in a wrap, or add it to their shawarma sandwiches which is something I’ve never even considered before. Nevertheless, Tunisia is right on the sea and I was already there so I decided to chow copious amounts of tuna as well.

What to do in Tunis

Tunis was a pleasant surprise. It was much nicer than I anticipated. It’s also the most European of all the Middle Eastern capitals I’ve visited. Having been a French colony, the architectural influences are clear as most buildings outside of the small medina (old city) have buildings that look more akin to Paris than somewhere like Marrakech.

Avenue Habib Bourguiba, probably Tunis’ most impressive street, was modeled after the Champs Elysses of Paris. Tunis reminded me more of  Istanbul , and is perhaps even more European in its architecture. There isn’t much to do in Tunis itself. A day is probably enough to see most of the sights in Tunis city center.

Bardo Museum

Of the few tourist attractions on TripAdvisor of Tunis, this was #1. Turns out, the Bardo museum is Tunisia’s oldest and most important museum and houses the most extensive collection of mosaics in the world. I’ve seen mosaics here and there having visited Turkey and other European destinations but my goodness the amount of mosaics in this museum were incredible. I’m talking some gymnasium sized mosaics and many many of them.

There is a lot of history within the mosaics but I didn’t have the patience nor the time to read up on it. A guide probably would have been helpful for this museum. Nevertheless, I see why it is the #1 place to go on TripAdvisor; there are few other places that can match this in the world! It’s a crazy thought that I was here three months before the ISIS attacks.

The Tunis Medina

Located in the center of town, the medina is the old city, with traditional North African/Islamic architecture. There are large mosques here, and an old school souk, although nothing compared to that of Marrakech or the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul . It is similar however, as hundreds of shops selling similar items are bunched close together.

Located in the Medina is a good rooftop view of Tunis. Venture the store named El Ali. I didn’t know about this place at first but as I walked by the store, I was endlessly heckled and he said “at least check out the rooftop, it has the best views”. I said what the hell and checked it out. Totally worth it. Not obligated to buy anything either!

Where to go outside of Tunis

Carthage ruins.

For those that remember their Roman history, there was a time in their history when they were attacked by a General Hannibal from North Africa who used elephants and nearly conquered Rome. That same General hailed from Tunisia in ancient times. How they lived in a desert and got their hands on elephants is beyond me, but he was from these parts. After Hannibal’s armies were defeated by the Romans, the Romans settled in modern day Tunisia and many ruins were left behind. In fact, Tunisia has some of the most well-kept Roman ruins I’ve ever seen.

Visit the Carthage ruins by simply catching the TGM lightrail from downtown Tunis and get off at the  Carthage-Hannibal  station The train costs about 1 dinar (~50 cents), and the entrance fee to the ruins are 10 dinar which will give you access to all the sights in and around Carthage.

Sidi Bou Said

With its white walls and blue accented windows and rooftops, this place may appear oddly similar to Santorini . It’s hard not to fall in love with this quaint sea-side town outside of Tunis. Sidi Bou Said is a few stops further than Carthage on the TGM lightrail. We ended up catching a taxi from Carthage to Sidi Bou Said and paid about 3 dinars. That’s $1.50! Cabs are insanely cheap here.

There isn’t a whole lot to do in Sidi Bou Said except enjoy the views of the Mediterranean, take some pictures of the unique architecture.  Au Bon Vieux Temps , a restaurant in Sidi Bou Said serving average food is a great place to have a drink and soak in the views. I wouldn’t recommend it for much more than that however.

The bambaloni,  a fried donut of sorts sprinkled with sugar is a MUST have for any visitors. This delicious piece of dough is crack. Absolutely delicious and for less than 1 dinar a piece, I had five. Apparently it is only served in Sidi Bou Said. Not sure why they wouldn’t bring this to Tunis as it would sell big time but I could not find it anywhere in Tunis.

Day trips outside of Tunis

There isn’t too much to do in Tunis itself. It’s not going to be Paris or Rome with endless history. Worry not, there are many things to do outside of Tunis. The train system is very efficient thanks to the small size of the country. The public bus system is easy to navigate and local taxi vans, louages as the locals refer to them, are cheap and frequent.

Visiting the Roman ruins in Dougga

I had no idea what this place was until I arrived and started talking with the locals. That’s how hard it is to research Tunisian travel! Nevertheless, if time allows for it, visiting Dougga should be high on your list as it is some of the more stunning Roman ruins I’ve seen in my travels. They are in great condition, and best of all, there are VERY FEW visitors unlike the mass hordes of tourists in Italy.

There are only three ways to get here: Private Taxi, Guided Tour, and public taxi van (Louage). The private options are pricey as Dougga is almost 2 hours outside of Tunis. I opted for the Louage option, and riding it out with the locals!

There are a few Louage stations in Tunis, located on different sides of the city depending on which direction your destination is. Dougga is to the west so my louage left from  Bab Saadoun.  The louage stations can be a bit overwhelming at first as you’ll be bombarded with people yelling “Hammamet”, “Bizerte”, “Sousse! Sousse!”, all trying to figure out where you want to go.

Don’t worry, no one is trying to scam you here. People here are all very helpful and like my experiences traveling with taxi brousses in Madagascar and Chappas in Mozambique,  they don’t take advantage of you because you’re a foreigner. Everyone pays the same price.

I told someone “je veux aller au Dougga” or “I want to go to Dougga”, and they immediately directed me to a van where like public taxis everywhere else in the world, wouldn’t leave until it was full. I was the only person in it, and the wait was long. Half hour goes by and it is only half full and I’m ready to to just subsidize the other non existing half so I can go. 50 minutes go by, and we’re finally full and ready to go. The louage is not the most comfortable of vans but they are in much better shape than similar vans I’ve taken in other countries. I had some interesting conversations with some of the locals on the ride and the Tunisian countryside is so beautiful.

The louage takes 2 hours to reach Dougga but does not take you to the ruins themselves. Being the obvious tourist that I was, the louage drive actually called in ahead of time and there was a taxi waiting for me to take me the rest of the way to the ruins. Entrance fees are 8 dinars and I was finally inside the ruins after a 3 hour journey.

The ruins are truly impressive. There is a large theatre, altars, temples, and pillars. Everything you need for an impressive ruins. Best thing about it? The only people I saw during my 2 hour visit were a group of Tunisian tourists, and two korean exchange students living in Tunis. I had the entire place to myself. I could scream, I could jump, I could spend as much time and do whatever I wanted. I do however wish there would have been a tour guide to help me understand what the hell I was staring at but nevertheless, these ruins were on par with the ruins I saw at Ephesus in Turkey .

El-Jem Amphitheatre

Located an hour outside of Tunis, this little town is home to the world’s third largest Roman Amphitheatre (The Colosseum in Rome is the largest). If you only have enough time to do one day trip out of Tunis, I’d highly recommend this one.

El Jem is an easy train ride from the Tunis train station near the place de Barcelone in the center of the town. I tried booking tickets online but their website is a bit of a joke with no English option, and a barely functioning French option. The train is 10 dinars and leaves in the morning from Tunis at 8 or 9:30, and returns from El Jem in the afternoon.

When the train arrives to El Jem, the amphitheatre is easily visible from the train and it’s just a short 10 minute walk. This amphitheatre is the largest in Africa and once held over 35000 spectators. Gladiators regularly fought here, along with chariot races and other Roman entertainment. In addition, it was also used for…*drumroll*…the Gladiator movie.

The best part of this place? No one else is here. You get the whole place to yourself and you can take some amazing pictures. You can also wander pretty much anywhere in and around the amphitheatre. Forget about the Coliseum in Rome, this place is a far superior sight in my opinion. It’s in much better condition and while smaller than the amphitheatre in Rome, it gives you a better feel of what it would have been like thousands of years ago to do battle.

Other Day trips to Consider

There’s plenty to see around Tunis so here are some other ideas for day trips.

• The Great Mosque of Kairouan –  One of the largest and most important mosques in the Islamic world
• Hammamet –  Beach town getaway on the Mediterranean
• Bizerte –  Another scenic coastal town to the north of Tunis

Continue Reading:

Visiting the tozeur star wars sets in tunisia’s sahara desert.

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Im planning to visit Tunisia in the first week of April and need your expert advice.Will be travelling from Pakistan with my wife.we first intend to stop in Greece for a week and then take a flight to Tunis.Your writeup is quite comprehensive but i still have questions regarding the dos and donts.I would like to stay at a decent place but not expensive,was thinking of staying in Tunis for about a week and take day trips.What do you think?How much would it cost on the day trips,i would like to do sidi bou said hammamet,dougga,mosque of kaiouran atleast,others you may suggest.What should be my budget for a day,this should include accommodation,eating transportation mainly.I have been to Morocco and just loved it,visited three cities,Fez Marrakech and Casablanca.How is Tunisia for street photography,do people mind if someone takes their picture,i know it happened a lot in Morocco,people would get upset if they saw me pointing my camera at them.

Hi Hameed, I think staying in Tunis is fine for day trips but to be honest, I think you should also consider staying na few nights in the south as it is more unique down there. From Tunis however, is easy to do day trips to Sidi bou said, dougga, etc.

As for street photography, I don’t take pictures of people directly, I prefer to just take pictures of crowds as opposed to a person beacuse I think it’s a bit strange to take pictures of people unless I ask them (but I don’t do that much). Some people did want to take pictures with me however as I don’t think they see many Asian tourists in Tunis!

Very well written, thanks for the tips! Indeed, Tunisia has come a long way since the Arab Spring in 2011, and tourists are beginning to come back to enjoy the sea, sand and medinas of Tunisia.

However, there are tourist-targeting scammers and petty crime to be wary of. https://travelscams.org/africa/common-tourist-scams-tunisia/

Do be wary of the lizard beach photo, very pushy merchants, flirtatious locals, public transportation pickpockets, taxi bag fee, fake tours and many more!

Thanks for sharing your trip! I spent a few months in Tunisia myself, absolutely beautiful country. Here’s my take on the Bardo Museum: https://jamesvachowski.com/2018/07/21/museum-in-transition-the-bardo/

Great writeup James! Glad you enjoyed the Bardo as well. Intesresting that their security is still the same as it was when I was there few years back even after the terrorist attacks.

Hi there! Would you mind if I share your blog with my myspace group? There’s a lot of people that I think would really appreciate your content. Please let me know. Many thanks ckefcffekdbcgcdf

Don’t see why not? Didn’t know people still used myspace but go ahead!

I love your travel i just what to say that you can have bambolonie in any place in tunisia, but if you can’t find it in some places means that there are some other food more delicious 😀 . and also about the hotel prices, they took advantage of you cause you are a stranger, if you get to any travel agency they can get you a good priced hotel

Ah thanks for the advice! I didn’t see any bamboloni in other parts of Tunisia but must have not been looking hard enough 🙂 As for the hotels, I actually had a Tunisian friend help me book before hand and got the “local” discount 🙂

thank you johnny for all these tips given to encourage people visit tunisia , hope that next time , you ‘ll visit the south of the country which is fantastic with it’s sandy beaches on the east and the sahara and the oases of the south west !

Thanks fayçal for the comment! Yes, I truly foreigners will read this post and hopefully change their minds about visiting. I actually did visit the South West, spending a few days in Tozeur. https://johnnyafrica.com/visit-star-wars-tozeur-tunisia/

Next time, I will check out Djerba though!

Bonjour Johnny! This is great write up of our country! Glad you can share with us your experiences and very happy you enjoyed yourself

Merci Mouna! Hopefully other Westerners will find this post and visit like I did!

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.

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.

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!

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Five best day trips from Tunis

Aug 28, 2018 • 8 min read

The archaeological site of Thugga/Dougga is located in the North-west region of Tunisia, perched on the summit of a hill at an altitude of 571 m, dominating the fertile valley of Oued Khalled. The impressive ruins give an idea of the resources of a Romanised Numidian town.

Tunis itself has all the charm you need for a short break, but if you’re staying longer, the city makes a great base for exploring the north and central parts of the country. From vast ancient Roman cities and crumbling Berber hilltop towns to hot springs, wild beaches and rolling countryside dotted with vineyards and olive groves, a warm welcome awaits whichever route you decide to take.

Whether you’re a culture vulture, beach bum, nature lover or shopaholic, you can be sure of a great day out just a short journey from Tunisia 's capital.

Best day trip for history and culture: Dougga and Testour

An easy two-hour drive west of Tunis , the verdant countryside of the Testour region makes for a picture-perfect road trip. Unesco awarded World Heritage status to the sprawling Roman town of Dougga , and it’s not hard to see why: a morning wandering through the best preserved Roman site in North Africa will leave you pondering why it’s so obscure compared to the Forum in Rome or the Greek Acropolis. Dougga, an important town long before the Romans developed it, has archaeological artefacts that date back to 139 BC, but it is the remarkably intact Roman Temple of Jupiter and intricate mosaic floors that will leave you open-jawed.

Unlike Roman sites on the other side of the Mediterranean, you can explore Dougga close up and often alone, providing a prime opportunity to meander through the old streets and imagine how life used to be. The entry fee is surprisingly minimal at 7DT.

Once you're done exploring, head 30 minutes east of Dougga to the charming town of Testour , with a stop at Verger de Montagnes to refuel after the morning’s adventure. This Tunisian-style farmstay  offers sumptuous lunches on the vine-covered veranda using homegrown produce and homemade cheeses, as well as spaces to spend the night if you can’t pry yourself away. Call in advance to book in.

Walk off the feast in the unusual Andalusian-inspired Testour, which has beautiful architecture and, unlike most towns in Tunisia, a Spanish-style main square. The city’s Great Mosque is thought to be the only one with two Stars of David in the minaret’s design, paying homage to the Jewish community that was also forced to flee from Spain and helped their neighbours build this mosque. Unusually for a mosque, the minaret also features a clock that is in reverse and goes backwards, which according to local legend shows the refugees’ desire to turn back time.

Best day trip for getting away from it all: Korbous and Foret de Meroua

Korbous lies across the sea from Tunis on the Cap Bon peninsula, and it's just a short journey to its famous hot springs . But this isn’t the only reason to pack your swimmers and head southeast. The rolling hills make for a dramatic entrance to the region with stunning endless sea views. Active travellers should park up a few miles out and hike the paths down into the village. There are a few hot springs in the main town, but ignore these and instead follow the stream of people along the coast road to the ones that tumble down the rocks into the sea, a much cooler and more picturesque option. Signage is limited, but friendly locals will point you in the right direction. After a dip in the springs, head to  Crique de Robinson , a simple, rustic eatery serving good grub on its roped-off terrace, to take in the deep blues of the sea in a near private beachfront setting. Be sure to book in advance.

After lunch, continue driving to the Foret de Meroua and rest on a deserted wild beach where grass blows through seemingly never-ending sand dunes that stretch on uninterrupted for miles. The openness means it can be windy here and the sea rougher, but the joy of having such a stretch of beach to yourself is worth it. If not in a 4x4, it’s best to leave the car parked further away from the beach, before the tracks turn to sand. Bring a picnic to accompany the sunset. For the more adventurous, pop up a tent and enjoy a night of wild camping to the sound of the ocean.

Best day trip for beaches: Ghar El Milh and the Raf Raf peninsula

Beloved by locals, the hilly stretch of coastline from Ghar El Milh to Cap Angela ranges from rugged cliffs to calm turquoise lagoons. Dotted with lovely restaurants, old forts and plenty of walking trails, this northeastern point just over an hour from Tunis makes for an easy day trip from the city. The old Barbary pirates' base of little-visited Ghar El Milh retains its local authenticity despite being home to attractions that should draw more tourists, such as old Ottoman fortresses and the picturesque ancient port. The town may have waved off the pirates, but life at sea is still a huge part of everyday life here. Fishing is still one of the main sources of income, which means plenty of excellent seafood restaurants are strung along the coast at the water’s edge. A few miles north, the long beaches of Sidi Ali El Mekki and Cap Farina are home to stretches of white sand and crystal-clear shallow Mediterranean waters.

Walking trails from this area lead up past a delightful old whitewashed temple and around the cliff edges of Raf Raf. The hikes in this area offer verdant scenery and dramatic cliffs, particularly outside of the peak summer season, when the weather is cooler and the beaches much quieter. In summer, boat tours are offered to Cani Island with Bichi Bizerte for snorkelling in the intense blue waters of the grottoes. Nearby Bizerte has plenty of character, with crumbling French-style villas and a pretty old port, and is always worth a wander. Walks from the town also offer views of the old shipwreck just off the coast. From Bizerte, it is just a 30-minute drive to Cap Angela, where trails lead out to the northernmost edge of Africa.

Best day trip for avoiding the crowds: Zaghouan, Zriba and Uthina

Pack up a picnic and head to the crumbling hilltop Berber town of Zriba for lunch in the midst of an abandoned town. There a number of different routes to Zriba from Tunis, but the back lanes through Zaghouan are sumptuous in spring, when a blanket of yellow wildflowers spreads between the olive groves to the backdrop of Jebel Zaghouan, the highest peak in the area. The town of Zaghouan itself, known by the Romans as the Temple of Water , is home to the start of the ancient aqueduct network built by Hadrian in the 2nd century. Some of this impressive engineering still remains and can be easily visited. For experienced hikers and mountaineers, there are a number of difficult climbs and walks around the mountains of Zaghouan, rewarding your efforts with incredible views. Serious climbers will find a number of lines available. For those less experienced, a number of hiking and  adventure clubs  can help show you the way.

Abandoned by residents in the 1960s, the hilltop town of Zriba is serenely beautiful. The stone used for the buildings merges the village seamlessly into its rocky mountainous surroundings. Although in various states of disrepair, it is still possible to get a sense of how life was here and envisage the town in its former glory. A wander through the ruins and the surrounding countryside makes for a great morning out: find a good spot, set your picnic on a fouta (traditional Tunisian blanket) and enjoy views for miles. On the way back to Tunis, make a detour to Uthina , an impressive Roman site with a wonderfully restored amphitheatre where you can explore the symmetrical and slightly eerie underground chambers in solitude.

Best day trip for shopping: Nabeul, Hammamet and Takrouna

The coastal region of Nabeul has much to offer shopaholics and is easily reached by public transport or car. Nabeul's bustling Friday market is famous for brightly painted Tunisian pottery at great prices. After bartering for ceramics, head south along the coast to the old medina in Hammamet . It’s possible to follow the walls of the old fortress to take in views of the bay before getting lost in the pale blue and white streets of the old town. The residential area is calm and a joy to walk around, out of view of keen market vendors. For art lovers, there are a number of tiny galleries to be found, tucked away in small medina houses where generations of families have put brush to canvas.

For a luxurious afternoon of relaxation, head for a pamper at La Badira or hang with trendy locals on the beach at the Sindbad . For those keener on culture (or more shopping), a taxi can take you up the winding lanes to nearby Takrouna . This hilltop Berber village is home to a few remaining families whose main source of income is the brightly woven rugs they sell. These charming women will happily share some homemade bread and tea whilst telling stories of life in the village. At the top of the hill lie the mausoleum and the arty Le Rocher Bleu  cafe, a perfect spot to cool down with a fresh citronade and take in the endless panoramic views.

Make it happen

Whilst trains, buses and louages (shared taxis) run to these towns, it's best to hire a car or join a guided tour for the majority of these journeys. Boats with captains are available for private hire for up to seven people from  Sidi Bou Saïd Harbour to Korbous for 1000DT per day.

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Introducing Tunisia

About tunisia.

• Images of Tunisia
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Tunisia
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Tunis Carthage International Airport
• Djerba beaches
• Hammamet beaches
• Port el-Kantaoui beaches
• Sousse beaches

Tunisia travel guide

From broad sweeps of beach overlooked by a tumble of sugar-cube houses, to grand ancient ruins and the vast, rolling dunes of the Sahara, Tunisia encapsulates everything that’s enticing about North Africa.

Lose yourself in the maze of medina alleyways inTunis, explore the Maghreban mosques of Kairouan and stand on the shimmering salt flats of Chott El Jerid. Tuck into freshly baked brik at a bustling street market, pretend to be a Roman gladiator at El Jem’s impressive amphitheatre and hoist yourself onto a camel for a trip into the desert.

Traditionally, sun-seeking tourists came to Tunisia for its beaches – lining the Mediterranean, the long, rambling coastline is impressive. There are also tiny coastal villages where fishermen haul in the day’s catch on quiet beaches and cobblestone streets are lined with blooming bougainvillea.

But Tunisia is so much more than a seaside destination where visitors lounge on the sands all day long. Join the locals at a café after the last notes of the call to prayer have faded, or puff on apple-scented shisha as you watch old men play dominos. Alternatively, get scrubbed and steamed on a marble slab under the tiled domes of a hammam. Or haggle in the souks, sipping glasses of mint tea while you barter for the best price. Suffice to say the age-old traditions of Tunisian life are still alive and well.

Regarded as one of North Africa’s most politically moderate countries, Tunisia balances traditional Islamic culture with modern influences. Beyond the ancient medina, the cities are full of restaurants, cafes and bars, many of which have a European air about them.

Though tourism took a hit in recent years after a number of suicide attacks on tourists and the authority. The Tunisian government is working to improve security in major cities and tourist resorts.

163,610 sq km (63,170 sq miles).

11,375,220 (UN estimate 2016).

67.4 per sq km.

President Kaïs Saïed since 2019.

Ahmed Hachani since August 2023.

Travel Advice

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

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

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

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

Military activity in the region

On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel.

On 19 April, there have been reports of explosions in Iran, and unconfirmed reports of explosions in Syria and Iraq.

Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . You can also  get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Read  FCDO advice on how to deal with a crisis overseas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can contact the emergency services by calling:

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

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

Coronavirus travel health

Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Tunisia on the TravelHealthPro website

See the TravelHealthPro website for For COVID-19 general advice for travellers .

You should contact local authorities for information on testing facilities. A test can be organised on the Ministry of Health webpage (available in French only).

Entry and borders

See Entry requirements to find out what you will need to do when you arrive in Tunisia.

Be prepared for your plans to change

No travel is risk-free as a result of COVID-19. Countries may restrict travel or bring in new rules at short notice, for example due to a new COVID-19 variant. Check with your travel company or airline for any transport changes which may delay your journey home.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Plan ahead and make sure you:

• can access money
• understand what your insurance will cover
• can make arrangements to extend your stay and be away for longer than planned

Travel in Tunisia

Travellers are advised to check the status of their flights before arriving at the airport.

Healthcare in Tunisia

For contact details for English speaking doctors visit our list of healthcare providers .

Your emotional and mental wellbeing is important. Read guidance on how to look after your mental wellbeing and mental health .

View Health for further details on healthcare in Tunisia.

For information on financial support you can access whilst abroad, visit our financial assistance guidance .

Political situation

A state of emergency is in effect in Tunisia, imposed after a suicide attack on a police bus in 2015. It has been extended a number of times, most recently in February 2022. The state of emergency means that there continues to be a heightened countrywide security presence, including security checkpoints in and around some cities and tourists resorts, as well as on main roads and at borders.

President Kais Saied ratified a new constitution in 2022, following the suspension of parliament in 2021 and its dissolution in 2022. Parliamentary elections took place in December 2022 and January 2023. The new Parliament re-opened in March 2023.

Demonstrations, Protests and Strikes

Demonstrations and protests occur in Tunisia quite often with little or no warning. They can sometimes become violent. Larger demonstrations and protests usually take place in central areas of Tunis and other major cities, and in the vicinity of government buildings. Demonstrations can be called at short notice, and are often at weekends. There are certain prominent national dates on which demonstrations traditionally occur. In response to the current situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, peaceful demonstrations have occurred in some Tunisian cities, including outside some Western embassies.

Avoid demonstrations and protests wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities. Some demonstrations in the past have turned violent. If you do find yourself unexpectedly near a demonstration or protest, move away from the area.

You should keep up to date with developments through the media and follow the instructions given by the Tunisian authorities as well as your hotel and tour operator, if you have one.

Strikes take place in Tunisia periodically, sometimes called at short notice that can cause disruption to public transport (including air travel and ports), as well as road networks and borders.

Curfews can be imposed at short notice in response to events. You should follow the guidance of local authorities when travelling around the country.

Local travel

You should check the latest guidance of local authorities and subscribe to the Travel Advice updates before moving around the country, to be aware of local events taking place and how that might impact your internal travel.

Mobile phone coverage can be patchy or unavailable in more remote areas, particularly in the south of Tunisia. Check before travelling, and/or consider downloading maps for offline use.

Some online or GPS maps may not be accurate in remote areas.

Border areas

There is a heightened Tunisian security presence at the borders with Libya and Algeria due to cross border terrorist activity and fighting in Libya. Border crossings are sometimes closed temporarily without notice. Some violent incidents have occurred.

See FCDO travel advice for Libya and Algeria .

Chaambi Mountains

The FCDO advise against all travel to the Chaambi Mountains National Park area, as well as Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila (all designated military operations zones). The FCDO advise against all but essential travel to all other areas within 10km of Mount Mghila.

Tunisian security forces continue to conduct operations. Security personnel have been killed and severely wounded in attacks and by booby-trap explosives in these areas.

Incidents of mugging, pick pocketing, bag-snatching and petty theft occur. Take sensible precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Where possible, avoid carrying all your important documents, money and other valuables in the same bag. You should remain alert to potential confidence tricks.

Personal attacks are rare but they do occur.

There have been several recent reports of assaults and theft in Tunis. Harassment of foreign women in Tunis is also reported to have increased. These have occurred in a variety of areas, including busy public places at night, and quieter public parks and beaches during the daytime.

You are advised to maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK and take care when walking or travelling alone.

Security screenings

Some British nationals of South Asian descent have been subject to additional screening or refused entry by immigration authorities at airports, including Enfidha, on alleged security grounds. See entry requirements for further details.

Discrimination and harassment

Though not commonly experienced by visitors, racial discrimination may be an issue, particularly in public places. Following public comments on irregular migration in February 2023, there was a temporary spike in verbal and physical assaults against those thought to be sub-Saharan African migrants. There have also been recent anti-migrant protests in certain coastal towns, including Sfax.

Road travel

You can drive in Tunisia with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to one year. You will need to have a 1968 IDP to drive in Tunisia. 1949 IDPs previously issued by the UK may no longer be accepted in Tunisia. You will not be able to buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

If you’re living in Tunisia, it may be possible to drive on a UK licence for up to one year, providing that you meet a number of conditions and submit an application to the Tunisian Ministry of Transport. Please check the conditions and application process with the Tunisian Ministry of Transport . For any longer periods, you will need to apply for a Tunisian driving licence.

A green card is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad. You need to carry a green card to prove you have the minimum insurance cover in Tunisia.

Driving standards can be erratic. There is very little lane discipline and often confusion about the right of way, especially at roundabouts. There are few pedestrian crossings and traffic lights are sometimes ignored. Take care when driving in towns as pedestrians tend to walk on the roads and have the right of way. Take particular care when crossing roads on foot, even where there is a signal allowing you to do so.

Roads are of a reasonable standard although large potholes can appear quickly following heavy rain, and most towns and villages have large speed bumps.

Driving at night can be hazardous particularly out of towns due to a lack of road lighting, unlighted vehicles, and animals on the roads in rural areas. Exercise caution and slow down when approaching sand drifts on roads.

You may come across military or police security checks. If you do, approach slowly, don’t cross boundaries without permission and be prepared to present photo ID if asked.

Demonstrations can occasionally affect road travel.

You should check the availability of fuelling stations before travelling long distances in remote areas.

Rail travel

Rail travel is generally safe, although safety standards tend to be lower than those in the UK. There is a risk of petty crime on trains.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Tunisia and there have been a number of attacks in recent years.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe abroad  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from  terrorism  while abroad.

The main terrorist threat is from Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and Libya-based extremists with links to Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL). Despite some improvements in border security, Tunisia has a porous border with Libya, where there is a continuing conflict, an absence of security, and where Islamist terrorist groups operate. Tunisian security forces have repeatedly been targeted in terrorist-related incidents, mainly in border areas including in the Chaambi Mountains.

A nationwide state of emergency, first imposed after a suicide attack on a police bus in November 2015, remains in place. Follow the advice of local security officials, including in and around religious sites.

Crowded areas, government installations, transportation networks, businesses with Western interests, and areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather may be at higher risk of attack. You should follow any specific advice of the local security authorities. In more remote areas of the country, including tourist sites in southern Tunisia, security forces’ response times to an incident may vary.

There’s a heightened risk of terrorism against aviation interests. Additional security measures have been in place on flights departing from Tunisia to the UK since March 2017. You should co-operate fully with security officials.

The Tunisian authorities regularly report that they have disrupted planned attacks and terrorist cells and made arrests. The Tunisian authorities have improved security in tourist resorts and their ability to respond to a terrorist incident. Tunisian security forces have also improved and are better prepared to tackle terrorist threats than they were at the time of the 2015 attacks. But further attacks remain likely, including in places visited by foreigners such as tourist resorts. Attacks may be carried out by individuals unknown to the authorities, whose actions may be inspired by terrorist groups. There have been a number of self-initiated attacks in recent months.

Recent incidents include:

• on 3 July a National Guard officer was stabbed in a knife attack in the Goulette area of Tunis.

in May 2023, a fatal shooting took place on the island of Djerba, near where Tunisian and international visitors were taking part in the annual Jewish pilgrimage at the El Ghriba synagogue. Three security personnel and two civilians were killed, and ten people were injured.

in June 2022, two security officers were injured in a knife attack by an assailant near a synagogue in central Tunis.

in January 2022, January three passengers on a tram at Bab Alioua station in Tunis were injured after a knife attack.

in November 2021, police shot and wounded an assailant who attacked them with a knife and axe in front of the Interior Ministry on Habib Bourguiba avenue, central Tunis.

in September 2020, two officers of Tunisia’s National Guard were attacked by three assailants in Sousse. Security forces later killed all three attackers.

in March 2020, a suicide bombing targeting a police patrol near the US Embassy in Tunis killed one police officer and injured four more, as well as a civilian.

in October 2019, a French national was stabbed to death in Zarzouna, northern Tunisia, by an individual who then attacked a Tunisian soldier.

in June 2019, there were 2 suicide bombings targeting security personnel in central Tunis; 3 people, including the perpetrators, were killed.

in October 2018, 15 security personnel and 5 civilians were injured in a bombing on Avenue Habib Bourguiba in central Tunis.

in July 2018, militants attacked security forces near Ghardimaou, close to the Algerian border. A number of Tunisian National Guard officers were killed. This follows separate media reports in early July 2018 of Tunisian security forces disrupting a terrorist group in Hammamet.

in June 2015, 38 foreign tourists were killed, including 30 British nationals, in a terrorist attack at Port El Kantaoui near Sousse.

• in March 2015, 21 tourists were killed, including a British national, in a terrorist attack at the Bardo Museum in the centre of Tunis.

There is a threat of kidnapping by groups operating in North Africa, particularly from Libya, Mauritania and groups originating in the Sahel. This includes Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQ-IM) and Daesh-affiliated groups, who may travel across the region’s porous border. There is a heightened risk of kidnap in border and remote desert areas of North Africa. Terrorist groups have kidnapped foreigners, government officials and civilians in the region for financial gain and for political leverage. Further kidnaps are likely.

Those engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors are viewed as legitimate targets. If you’re kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release.

The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) also makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Local laws reflect the fact that Tunisia is an Islamic country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they don’t offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas.

Dress codes

In the coastal holiday resorts the dress code is very much like any European city or tourist area, although topless sunbathing on beaches may cause offence. If you are visiting religious sites or more remote areas of Tunisia, you should dress more modestly.

Possession, use and trafficking of controlled drugs are all serious criminal offences. The possession of even a small amount of ‘soft’ drugs could result in a prison term.

Exporting antiquities

You should get permission from Customs authorities before removing antiquities from Tunisia. Failure to get permission could result in lengthy delays on departure, a fine and/or imprisonment.

Carrying I.D.

Carry a form of photo ID at all times (for example a copy of your passport) and be prepared to show this to uniformed security officials if asked to do so.

Buying property

British nationals wishing to buy property in Tunisia have often been advised to do so through a Tunisian ‘friend’ on the basis that it is illegal for foreign nationals to purchase property in Tunisia. If you are considering purchasing property in Tunisia, you should consult a local lawyer who will be best placed to offer advice. Don’t make private arrangements, which may be illegal and could result in large financial loss.

Homosexuality is a criminal offence in Tunisia. See our information and advice page for the LGBT+ community before you travel.

Photography and drones

Do not take photographs near sensitive political or military sites.

Any drones brought to Tunisia without prior permission will be confiscated by the Tunisian authorities on arrival in the country and stored until the owner’s departure. Ownership of drones is licensed and gaining a licence is a lengthy process.

This page has information on travelling to Tunisia.

This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Tunisia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re unsure how Tunisia’s entry requirements apply to you, contact its UK embassy, high commission or consulate

All travellers

On arrival in Tunisia, you may be asked to share your contact details and travel information with the authorities.

Evidence of a hotel reservation is required to enter the country, and a small number of visitors have been denied entry into Tunisia, or delayed, for not being able to provide sufficient evidence of accommodation. This policy is not applied uniformly, and in most cases, if asked, an explanation of alternative accommodation arrangements will be accepted.

Some British nationals of South Asian descent have been delayed, temporarily detained, or denied entry into the country by Tunisian immigration authorities at airports. This can cause distress and inconvenience. The British Embassy has raised this issue with Tunisian authorities.

Entry to Tunisia is decided by Tunisian authorities, and the British Embassy cannot override decisions to refuse entry. However, if you have been subject to the above practices and wish to report it to us, contact the Consular team at British Embassy Tunis on +216 71 108 700.

Check your passport and travel documents before you travel

Passport validity.

If you are visiting Tunisia, your passport should be valid for the full duration of your stay. You don’t need any additional period of validity beyond this.

Dual British-Tunisian nationals should enter and leave Tunisia on their Tunisian passports.

Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

For stays longer than 90 days, you will need a visa. You should contact the Tunisian Embassy in London for information on how to apply,

If you stay in Tunisia for longer than the authorised period, you will have to pay a fine. This rule may not apply if you are vulnerable or if circumstances oblige you to remain in the country.

If you have a health condition, or you are pregnant, you may need specialist healthcare abroad. Check whether your destination country can provide the healthcare you may need and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for unexpected medical evacuation or local treatment.

See the Coronavirus travel health and Healthcare sections in the Coronavirus page for COVID-19 health information.

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website .

General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines . For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you should contact the Tunisian Embassy.

While travel can be enjoyable, it can sometimes be challenging. There are clear links between mental and physical health, so looking after yourself during travel and when abroad is important. Information on travelling with mental health conditions is available in our guidance page . Further information is also available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) .

Medical treatment

There’s no provision for free medical attention for foreign nationals in Tunisia. All doctors’ fees, medication and hospitalisation in private clinics have to be paid for on the spot (and sometimes in advance of treatment). These costs can be quite high. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

If you’re bringing prescription medicines, carry a note from your GP confirming that the medication has been prescribed for an existing condition. If you have any specific concerns about taking certain types of medication with you to Tunisia, contact the Tunisian Embassy in London.

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 190 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

ATMs are widely available. Almost all ATMs will accept Visa cards, and many (including Bank of Tunisia and BIAT) will also accept Maestro cards for cash withdrawals.

UK issued credit and debit cards are accepted in an increasing number of shops, restaurants and hotels, though there can be connectivity problems. In places that do take cards, there can be problems authorising Mastercard purchases. Travellers Cheques are accepted in some hotels but not others.

It is strictly prohibited to take Tunisian dinars out of the country. To exchange any Tunisian dinars left over at the end of your stay into Sterling or other hard currency you will need to show the receipt from the bank where you first withdrew or bought the dinars. Please note that receipts from cash machines are not accepted.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission . If you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad, contact the FCDO in London on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours).

Foreign travel checklist

Read our foreign travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe while you’re there.

Travel safety

The FCDO travel advice helps you make your own decisions about foreign travel. Your safety is our main concern, but we can’t provide tailored advice for individual trips. If you’re concerned about whether or not it’s safe for you to travel, you should read the travel advice for the country or territory you’re travelling to, together with information from other sources you’ve identified, before making your own decision on whether to travel. Only you can decide whether it’s safe for you to travel.

When we judge the level of risk to British nationals in a particular place has become unacceptably high, we’ll state on the travel advice page for that country or territory that we advise against all or all but essential travel. Read more about how the FCDO assesses and categorises risk in foreign travel advice .

Our crisis overseas page suggests additional things you can do before and during foreign travel to help you stay safe.

Refunds and cancellations

If you wish to cancel or change a holiday that you’ve booked, you should contact your travel company. The question of refunds and cancellations is a matter for you and your travel company. Travel companies make their own decisions about whether or not to offer customers a refund. Many of them use our travel advice to help them reach these decisions, but we do not instruct travel companies on when they can or can’t offer a refund to their customers.

For more information about your rights if you wish to cancel a holiday, visit the Citizen’s Advice Bureau website . For help resolving problems with a flight booking, visit the website of the Civil Aviation Authority . For questions about travel insurance, contact your insurance provider and if you’re not happy with their response, you can complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service .

Registering your travel details with us

We’re no longer asking people to register with us before travel. Our foreign travel checklist and crisis overseas page suggest things you can do before and during foreign travel to plan your trip and stay safe.

Previous versions of FCDO travel advice

If you’re looking for a previous version of the FCDO travel advice, visit the National Archives website . Versions prior to 2 September 2020 will be archived as FCO travel advice. If you can’t find the page you’re looking for there, send the Travel Advice team a request .

Further help

If you’re a British national and you have a question about travelling abroad that isn’t covered in our foreign travel advice or elsewhere on GOV.UK, you can submit an enquiry , or contact us on Twitter or Facebook . We’re not able to provide tailored advice for specific trips.

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More From Forbes

How to visit cinque terre and hike via dell’amore in italy.

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Manarola in Italy—one of the five towns that make up Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is one of the most iconic, picture-postcard images of Italy, with its pastel-colored houses perched on the north-west coastline of Italy on the hills above the Mediterranean sea.

Knowing which part of Cinque Terre is the best place to stay depends on your preferences—here's a guide on when to go, what to take, where to stay and how to get about in Cinque Terre.

Why Is Cinque Terre So Special?

The five medieval villages of Cinque Terre have been UNESCO listed since 1997, inspired a Disney movie (Luca) and entice three million tourists to visit every year.

The wine made on the clifftops was legendary in the Renaissance period when it was sent to the tables of royalty and Popes—that's especially extraordinary considering the hillside in which it was, and still is, produced makes for backbreaking work.

It's even more incredible considering how remote it must have felt for centuries. The railway connecting Genoa and La Spezia was built in the 1870s, linking the five villages for the first time by train—before that, it was only accessible by sea. By 1960, one single-track road had arrived but it remains incredibly difficult to move about by car.

Above all, it is the views that are sublime. Everyone has a favorite village, but there's certainly something for every kind of nature lover, whether that's people watching on the beach or hiking vertiginous cliff faces.

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Just as its name suggests, Cinque Terre is made up of five villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.

Monterosso al Mare (red mountain) is the largest village in Cinque Terre with the most stores, hotels and guesthouses. It is divided into two parts, separated by a tunnel—the medieval part is to the east and to the west is Fegina, where you'll find the newest part of the village and the only sandy beach in Cinque Terre where you can rent beach chairs and parasols (the private beach clubs open in May and close for the year in September). Monterosso is the flattest of any of the Cinque Terre villages.

While it is often seen as the most overdeveloped village in Cinque Terre, Monterosso offers a great opportunity to taste authentic artisanal produce (think limoncello, olive oil, pesto) from local family-run businesses and has a large choice of seafood restaurants.

Vernazza is considered one of the most picturesque village (meaning sometimes, the busiest) with colorful Ligurian houses and fishing boats in the only natural harbor of all the Cinque Terre villages—it's here that you'll find all the pretty architectural features of the ancient Genoans, like winding staircases and atmospheric arches. The hike starts here to Monterosso in the north and Corniglia to the south—it's a stunning climb up to the Belforte Tower of Doria castle, built in the mid-1500s to protect the village from pirates.

Corniglia , the Cinque Terre village in the middle, is the only one not built directly on the seaside but 100 metres above sea level (you'll need to climb the 380-odd steps or take the shuttle bus from the station). It is the smallest and least accessible village, meaning that the larger tourist groups and buses tend to avoid it.

Manarola is one of the oldest villages and known for fishing and wine (think footpaths through the cliffside vineyards with yummy wines and delicious views). It might be one of the most instantly recognisable villages, known for its boat ramp into the sea and for watching the locals cliff jumping into the sea. Sit in one of the many Trattorias, eating fresh seafood—say, the muscoli ripieni— mussels stuffed with mortadella, parmesan and egg—overlooking the lush vineyards.

Riomaggiore has a pebble beach, a pretty harbor, some nightlife and a great sunset surrounding the patchwork of colorful houses stacked one upon another. It's the most eastern/southern village connected by narrow cobblestoned lanes and steps upon steps that lead up to the 13th century Castello di Riomaggiore, which has a great view.

How Long Does It Take To Walk The Five Villages Of Cinque Terre? Can I Take The Train? Is The Via dell'Amore Open?

The entire area is a national park with over 120 km (75 miles) of footpaths, connecting all five villages. Most trails are free of charge except, for instance, the trail than connects Monterosso and Vernazza and Corniglia, for which hikers need a Cinque Terre card. The Red Trail (Sentiero no.1) is free and runs along the ridge along all five Cinque Terre villages. The easiest part of the Blue Trail that connects Vernazza to Corniglia takes 1.5 hours, taking in the tiny hamlet of Prevo, although it is steep at the bottom.

The most famous walking trail is probably Via dell'Amore , or The Path of Love . It's flat, accessible and only takes 1km (half a mile) between Riomaggiore and Manarola but it has been closed since 2012 due to landslide damage— it's due to reopen fully in July 2024 for guided tours only. (Many trails were destroyed in the heavy flooding and landslides of 2011).

The easiest way to travel around the five villages of Cinque Terre is to take the express train that runs every 20 minutes (the schedule and prices can be found here ). There is also a hop-on, hop-off ferry service for about €30 per day but tickets cannot be bought in advance and must be bought from the ferry booths themselves.

While it is possible to visit Cinque Terre in one day, the villages are most atmospheric in the evenings when most of the day tourists have left, so you'll get the most out of a trip if you stay longer than two or three days.

The trails are often closed due to weather issues, so check the national park website for updates. To be most loved, stick to the paths and leave everything as you found it, taking litter with you.

How Can I travel To Cinque Terre?

Pisa Airport is close and from there, it's easy to take a train to Pisa Centrale Train Station and then to one of the Cinque Terre villages (usually changing trains at La Spezia).

Driving is complicated, the roads narrow and entrance to the villages banned (you would need to park in designated spaces outside). Only residents can drive inside.

Take the ferry from Levanto, La Spezia or Portovenere to Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore (it is only Corniglia, high on the cliffs that doesn’t have ferry access).

Can I Cycle The Villages Of Cinque Terre?

In a word, yes, you can cycle the villages of Cinque Terre but the difficulty of cycling the paths shouldn't be underestimated and anyone unused to long periods on a bike on hilly terrain could hire an electric bike near the Madonna of Montenero Sanctuary in Riomaggiore or in Manarola.

The Sentiero del Crinale, path number one, is a good bet for cyclists, as it's an old mule track, dating from Roman times. It's 40 kilometres long, rising from 800 metres to around 1.300 metres above sea level, starting in Levanto and finishing in Porto Venere in the south.

Is Cinque Terre Expensive?

Cinque Terre is very expensive by Italian standards as so many people come to visit one of the prettiest parts of Italy. Moreover, at weekends and on holidays, prices will easily double. The best value might be an affittacamere, a room without breakfast and while restaurant prices might be higher than you expected for a small village, there are lots of small bakeries that make delicious focaccia bread.

Levanto and La Spezia are at either ends of the trainline (and included on the Cinque Terre travel card) so it could be a good idea to stay in either of these places to find something cheaper, depending on availability. Porto Venere is another nearby village, an important commercial post in Roman times, often overlooked but worth a visit.

What Should I Bring To Visit Cinque Terre?

These are cliff sides that you will be exploring, prone to shifting over time and under weather—bring solid footwear and layered clothing that you can shed or add to match the weather, with waterproofs. Take lots of water (there are fountains to fill up free-of-charge in the villages) and there is little shade, so hats, sunscreen and sunglasses are a priority.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Cinque Terre?

Summers are increasingly hot across Europe, which is the fastest-warming continent due to climate change and thanks to remote working, there are less easily recognisable cheaper shoulder seasons, as in the past. April/May and September/October are good options for avoiding the crowds. Make sure to verify that you're not traveling on Italian public holidays or the villages will be unbearably crowded.

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Explore Oregon Podcast: A guide to ‘wildflower hotspots’ and the best times to visit

In this episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, host Zach Urness talks about Oregon's wildflower hotspots and the best times to see them with expert Greg Lief.

Lief, who runs the website OregonWildflowers.org and the Facebook group Oregon Wildflowers , talks about some of Oregon's most interesting blooms and the best times to visit places such as the Columbia Gorge, Old Cascades, Coast Range and Eastern Oregon to find the best of nature's fireworks display.

Never miss an episode:  Listen to each episode at  statesmanjournal.com/outdoors/explore . Find us on   Spotify ,   Apple Podcasts ,   Google Podcasts ,  SoundCloud  or  Amazon Music  and subscribe on your platform of choice to get future episodes.

Find every episode :  Find all 133 episodes of the Explore Oregon Podcast online

Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 15 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast . Urness is the author of “ Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon ” and “ Hiking Southern Oregon .” He can be reached at [email protected] or (503) 399-6801. Find him on Twitter at @ZachsORoutdoors.

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• A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. MICHELIN Keys Travel Hotels

On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide announced its very first Key hotels in the United States — a brand new distinction recognizing the most outstanding hotels in the country. We're thrilled to report that, in Washington D.C., seven hotels earned at least One Key. And while hotels in the capital have historically skewed towards the traditional, our seven Key hotels run the gamut of styles. Among the newest and hippest, the Eaton DC sports a boho aesthetic and a firm commitment to a progressive ethos — this hotel, set downtown on K Street, is a launchpad for progress, where rotating art exhibits fill the first floor and activists and political groups make use of its radio station, screening room, and co-working space. Representing the more traditional luxury hotels, the Hay Adams has been an institution — set in a monumental Italian Renaissance building just across from the White House — since 1928. Here, the feeling is of old-world elegance. Between the Eaton and the Hay Adams, we find the rest of our Key hotels somewhere in the stylistic middle. For waterfront views try the Pendry , with its modernist, Parisian-influenced aesthetic set on the Potomac in the city’s Southwest Waterfront. Or head to Georgetown and the Rosewood , where vistas from the rooftop bar overlook the C&O Canal. Other highlights: the  Dupont Circle Hotel , one of the only hotels privileged enough to set up in Dupont Circle, with its sophisticated restaurant and a swanky cocktail bar. The Jefferson , another option downtown, has the Quill, an upscale cocktail bar and lounge in its historic building dating back to 1923. At the Riggs , in the city’s Penn Quarter, there’s both an enchanting cafe and a subterranean bar. You can hardly go wrong. Below, explore the map of every Key hotel in Washington D.C. And scroll down to learn more each accommodation.

The Seven MICHELIN Key Hotels in DC:

The Jefferson - 2 Keys

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Eaton DC - 1 Key

Riggs Washington DC - 1 Key

The Dupont Circle Hotel - 1 Key

The Hay-Adams Hotel - 1 Key

Rosewood Washington, D.C. - 2 Keys

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