Tunisia

Tunisia: general info for travelers

Tunisia is a country located in North Africa and bordered by Algeria to the west and Libya to the east. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and as a result, the country has a blend of both traditional and modern culture. The capital city is Tunis, and the official language is Arabic, although French is also widely spoken. Tunisia is known for its beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean Sea, ancient ruins such as the Roman amphitheater of El Jem and the Carthage ruins, as well as its vibrant souks (markets) and unique cuisine. It is also a popular destination for tourists due to its warm climate, friendly people, and affordable prices.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Tunisia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Tunisia: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Tunisia, along with descriptions: 1. Tunis: Tunis is the capital city of Tunisia and is the largest city in the country. It has a rich history dating back to the ancient times, and is home to many historical sites and museums, such as the Bardo Museum, Carthage Roman Ruins, and the Medina of Tunis.
2. Carthage: Carthage was once a great Roman city and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the Carthage National Museum, the Antonin Baths, and the Punic Port.
3. Sousse: Sousse is a coastal city in Tunisia and is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also home to the Ribat, a ninth-century fortified monastery.
4. Hammamet: Hammamet is another coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts. It also has a charming medina with colorful streets, traditional architecture, and local markets offering a variety of souvenirs and handicrafts.
5. Tozeur: Tozeur is located in southern Tunisia and is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Mides Gorge, the Chott el-Jerid salt flats, and the Sahara Desert. It is also home to many traditional Berber villages and has a rich history of agriculture and crafts.
6. Djerba: Djerba is an island located on the east coast of Tunisia and is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional architecture, and historic landmarks. It is home to the El Ghriba Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the world, as well as the Krokodilfarm Animal Park and the Djerba Explore Park.
These are just a few of the main places to visit in Tunisia, each offering a unique travel experience and many activities for tourists to enjoy.
There is more to see and do in Tunisia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Tunisia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Tunisia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Generally, the best time to visit Tunisia is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent. During these months, you can expect average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, and the landscapes are green and lush.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Tunisia, with hot and dry weather. Temperatures can soar above 30°C, and humidity levels can be high. However, if you love the beach and don't mind the heat, this is the perfect time to visit. Winter (December to February) can be mild, but temperatures can dip to 10°C at night, especially in the coastal regions. Though it may not be ideal for swimming, winter is a great time for cultural and historical excursions, as the cooler weather is perfect for exploring Tunisia's ancient ruins and museums.
It's important to remember that the weather in Tunisia can vary depending on the region you visit, so make sure to research the specific areas you plan to visit to be well-prepared for your journey.

Tunisia: activities and what to do

Tunisia has a variety of activities and sports to offer to its visitors. Here are some popular options: 1. Scuba Diving: Explore the beautiful underwater world of Tunisia with its abundant marine life.
2. Golfing: Tunisia boasts several championship golf courses where you can play golf in the sun.
3. Camel Trekking: Take a ride on the back of the camel and explore the Tunisian desert.
4. Horse riding: Explore the countryside on horseback and discover the beauty of Tunisia.
5. Surfing and Kiteboarding: The windy coast of Tunisia makes a great destination for water sports enthusiasts.
6. Quad Biking: Enjoy an exhilarating ride through the desert, dunes, and mountains.
7. Hiking and Trekking: Explore the mountain ranges of Tunisia and discover ancient ruins and stunning scenery.
8. Hot air balloon rides: Float above the desert and enjoy views of the stunning landscapes.
These are just a few examples of the many activities and sports you can enjoy on your holiday in Tunisia.

Tunisia: few words on history and culture

Tunisia has a rich and diverse history and culture dating back to ancient times. The country has been influenced by Berbers, Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Turks, all of whom have left their marks on Tunisian civilization.
Tunisia is home to remarkable archaeological sites such as the Roman amphitheater in El Djem, the ancient city of Carthage, and the medina of Tunis, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tunisian culture is a mix of Arab and Berber traditions, with a European influence as well. People in Tunisia love to eat and enjoy a variety of foods such as couscous, brik, and Tunisian pastries. Tunisian music is greatly influenced by Middle Eastern and North African styles. Handicrafts such as textiles, ceramics, and mosaics are popular in Tunisian culture.
Islam is the official religion of Tunisia, and mosques and minarets are a common sight throughout the country. Tunisians are hospitable and welcoming to visitors, and hospitality plays a big role in Tunisian culture.

Tunisia: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transportation to reach and explore Tunisia. For international travel, the most common way to reach Tunisia is by plane. The country has several airports, including Tunis-Carthage International Airport, Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport, and Djerba-Zarzis International Airport. Flights to Tunisia are available from major cities around the world.
Within Tunisia, the most convenient way to travel is by car. You can rent a car from one of the many car rental companies at the airport or in major cities. However, it's important to note that driving in Tunisia can be challenging due to the country's narrow roads and lack of traffic signs.
Another option is to use the country's rail system. The national railway company, SNCFT, operates trains that connect major cities and towns. This is an affordable option, but the trains can be quite slow.
Lastly, there are also buses, shared taxis, and private taxis available for transportation within cities and between towns. Buses are the cheapest option, but the schedules can be unreliable. Shared taxis are more convenient and faster, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Private taxis are the most expensive option but are also the most convenient and comfortable. To hire a car to visit Tunisia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Tunisia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Tunisia with a full stomach:D
Sure, Tunisia is a North African country with a rich culinary tradition. Here are some of the typical Tunisian foods: 1. Couscous: This is a staple dish in Tunisia made from steamed semolina (a type of wheat) grains. It is typically served with stewed meat or vegetables.
2. Brik: This is a crispy pastry filled with egg, tuna, cheese, or meat. It is usually deep-fried and served as an appetizer or snack.
3. Mechouia: This is a salad made with roasted peppers, onions, tomatoes, and garlic, dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices. It is usually served as a side dish.
4. Shakshuka: This is a popular breakfast dish made with eggs poached in a spicy tomato-based sauce. It is typically served with bread.
5. Lablabi: This is a hearty soup made from chickpeas, spices, and bread. It is a popular street food in Tunisia, particularly during the winter months.
6. Tagine: This is a slow-cooked stew typically made with chicken or lamb, vegetables, and spices. It is often served with couscous.
7. Harissa: This is a spicy paste made from red chili peppers, garlic, and spices. It is used as a condiment in many Tunisian dishes.

Tunisia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

No, Tunisia is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, transportation, and food is usually reasonable, and there are many budget-friendly options available for travelers. Of course, the cost of a trip to Tunisia will depend on your personal travel style, the activities you choose to do, and the level of luxury you prefer. However, in general, Tunisia is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Tunisia: where to find accodation

There are a variety of options for finding accommodations in Tunisia. Here are some suggestions: 1. Online Booking Platforms: Websites such as Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, and Airbnb offer a wide range of accommodations in Tunisia, including hotels, apartments, villas, and guest houses.
2. Tour Operators: Tour operators such as Thomas Cook or TUI offer a range of package holidays to Tunisia, which include accommodation, flights, and transfers.
3. Local Travel Agencies: Local travel agencies in Tunisia can often help you find accommodations to fit your needs, whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option.
4. Tourism Office: You can visit the tourism office in Tunisia for information about hotels and other types of accommodations that are located near your desired location.
5. Direct Booking: Some hotels and guesthouses in Tunisia also allow you to book directly with them either online or by phone.
You can check hotel prices in Tunisia here:
Booking.com

Tunisia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Tunisia receives around 8 million tourists annually. The peak tourist season is generally from June to September when the weather is hot and sunny. During this period, some popular tourist destinations may become crowded, especially at popular beaches and attractions. The off-season, from October to May, may be less crowded and offer more affordable prices.
Tunisia is considered a relatively safe country for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, there are some areas that should be avoided due to safety concerns. The government of several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, advise against all travel to certain areas of Tunisia. These areas include the Governorate of Kasserine, the Governorate of Kef, the Governorate of Mount Chaambi, and the Governorate of Jendouba. Additionally, it is advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when traveling to other parts of Tunisia, especially at night and in crowded areas. It is also recommended to follow the guidance of local authorities, avoid protests and demonstrations, and keep a low profile.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Tunisia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Tunisia: events for tourists

Tunisia has a rich cultural heritage and offers many interesting events for tourists to experience. Some of the most popular events include: 1. Carthage International Festival - This is an annual cultural event that takes place in July and August in the ancient city of Carthage. It features music, theatre, dance, and other cultural activities.
2. Festival of the Sahara - This is an occasion to showcase the traditional music, dance, and handicrafts of the nomadic people of the Sahara desert. The festival takes place in December in Douz.
3. Cork Festival - This is a unique celebration of the cork industry and its heritage in the town of Ghar El Melh. It features live music, food, and lots of cork-related activities.
4. Sidi Bou Said Festival - This event celebrates the beauty of the historic village of Sidi Bou Said, and showcases its stunning architecture, arts, and crafts. It takes place in August.
5. El-Jem International Festival - This festival is held in July in the remarkable Roman amphitheater of El-Jem. It draws a diverse array of performers from around the world.
These are just a few of the many events that happen in Tunisia throughout the year.

Tunisia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Tunisia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here is a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Tunisia: Day 1: Arrive in Tunisia and settle into your accommodations.
Day 2-3: Explore the capital city of Tunis and visit the Bardo Museum, Carthage, and the Medina of Tunis.
Day 4-5: Head south to visit the ancient ruins of Dougga and then continue to the charming town of Sidi Bou Said.
Day 6-7: Head to Kairouan, one of the holiest cities in Islam, and visit the Great Mosque of Kairouan and the Aghlabid Basins.
Day 8-9: Visit El Jem and its Roman Amphitheater, a UNESCO world heritage site, before reaching Monastir and its Ribat.
Day 10-11: Make your way to the seaside towns of Hammamet and Nabeul for some beach time and local crafts shopping.
Day 12-14: Take a three-day desert tour to visit the stunning Sahara desert landscape and the famed Star Wars set locations, visiting Tozeur, Douz, and Matmata en route.
Day 15: Return to Tunis and depart.
Of course, this is just a suggestion and can be customized according to your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Tunisia!

Tunisia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Tunisia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Beni Khiar is a town located on the Mediterranean coast in northeastern Tunisia. It is situated in the Nabeul Governorate, about 70 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Tunis. The town is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beni Khiar
- Bizerte is a coastal city located in the north of Tunisia, about 60 kilometers northwest of Tunis. It is the fifth largest city in the country and serves as the capital of the Bizerte Governorate. Biz... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bizerte
- Béja is a city located in the northwest of Tunisia, near the border with Algeria. It is the capital of the Béja Governorate and has a population of approximately 100,000 people. The city is blessed wi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Béja
- Chenini is a small village located in the Gabes Governorate of southern Tunisia. It is well-known for its traditional Berber architecture, with its houses and structures built into the rocky mountains... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chenini
- Chott Meriem is a small coastal village located in the southeast of Tunisia, near the city of Mahdia. It is situated on the Gulf of Hammamet and is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chott Meriem
- Sure, Djerba is a beautiful island located off the coast of Tunisia in North Africa. It is known for its white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and year-round warm weather. The island has a rich ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Djerba
- Douar Hicher is a rural town located in the northern region of Tunisia, specifically in the governorate of Tunis. It has a population of around 15,000 people and is known for its agriculture, particul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Douar Hicher
- Douz is a town in southwestern Tunisia, located in the Kebili Governorate. It is located at the gateway to the Sahara desert and is known as the "Gateway to the Sahara." Douz is famous for its annual ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Douz
- El Haouaria is a small town located in the northeast of Tunisia, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and colorful coral reefs. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Haouaria
- El Jem is a small town in the eastern part of Tunisia, located about 40 kilometers inland from the city of Sousse. It is famous for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, which is one of the largest i... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Jem
- El Kef is a city located in the northwest of Tunisia, about 175 kilometers from the capital city, Tunis. It is situated on a hilltop, which makes it a perfect place to enjoy scenic views. The city is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Kef
- Gabes is a city located in the southeast of Tunisia, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is the third-largest city in the country and is known as the "Gate of the Sahara" due to its proximity to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gabes
- Gafsa is a city located in western Tunisia, about 350 kilometers south of the capital, Tunis. It is situated in a very arid region and has a desert climate with very hot summers and mild winters. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gafsa
- Hamam Sousse is a small coastal town located in the eastern part of Tunisia, near the famous city of Sousse. It is known for its stunning beaches, cozy cafes, and traditional markets that offer authen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hamam Sousse
- Hammamet is a coastal town located in the northeastern part of Tunisia. It is a popular tourist destination because of its sandy beaches, warm climate, and clear blue waters. The town is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hammamet
- Jendouba is a city located in the north-western region of Tunisia, near the border with Algeria. It is the capital of the Jendouba Governorate and has a population of approximately 50,000 inhabitants.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jendouba
- Kairouan is a city located in the central part of Tunisia and is considered one of the holiest cities in the Islamic world. It was founded in the 7th century and is home to many historical landmarks s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kairouan
- Kasserine is a city in central Tunisia, located about 286 km southwest of the capital, Tunis. It is the capital of the Kasserine Governorate and situated in a mountainous region known as the Dorsale. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kasserine
- Kebili is a town and oasis located in the southern part of Tunisia, near the border with Algeria. It is situated on the edge of the Sahara Desert, making it a popular destination for tourists interest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kebili
- Kef is a city located in the northwest of Tunisia, about 175 km from the capital city, Tunis. It is the capital of the Kef Governorate and has a population of around 52,000 people. The city is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kef
- Korba is a small town located on the northeast coast of Tunisia, about 60 kilometers from the capital city of Tunis. It is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, and its wide r... CONTINUE here for a trip to Korba
- Ksar Ghilane is a remote oasis located in the southern region of Tunisia, near the border of Libya. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the unique beauty of the Sahara Deser... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ksar Ghilane
- Ksar Hellal is a town in central Tunisia, located about 200 km south of the capital city of Tunis. It is situated on the eastern coast of Lake El Mellah, which is a popular spot for water sports and f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ksar Hellal
- Ksour Essef is a small town located in the eastern coast of Tunisia, specifically in the Sfax Governorate. It is situated near the Mediterranean Sea and offers access to beautiful sandy beaches. The t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ksour Essef
- Mahdia is a coastal city located in the central east coast of Tunisia, facing the Mediterranean Sea. It has a rich history and culture, as it was founded in the 10th century by the Fatimids, and was l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mahdia
- Matmata is a small town located in southern Tunisia, known for its unique underground dwellings that have been carved into the soft rock of the surrounding hills. The troglodyte architecture has been ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Matmata
- Medenine is a city located in southeastern Tunisia, near the border with Libya. It's the capital of the Medenine Governorate and has a population of approximately 75,000 people. The city is known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Medenine
- Menzel Bourguiba is a town located in the northernmost part of Tunisia, near the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Bizerte Governorate and has a population of around 41,000. The town is known for i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Menzel Bourguiba
- Menzel Temime is a small town in the northeastern region of Tunisia, situated on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its fishing industry and famous seafood restaurants. The town is al... CONTINUE here for a trip to Menzel Temime
- Monastir is a coastal city located in northeast Tunisia. It is considered to be one of the best tourist destinations in Tunisia due to its rich history, beautiful beaches, and pleasant year-round weat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Monastir
- Métlaoui is a town located in the southwest of Tunisia, about 370 km from the capital city of Tunis. It is situated in the Gafsa Governorate and has a population of around 23,000 people. Métlaoui is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Métlaoui
- Nabeul is a coastal town located on the northeastern coast of Tunisia and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and traditional pottery. It is located about 64 km southeast of Tunis, the capital ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nabeul
- Nefta is a small town located in southwestern Tunisia and is situated about 30 kilometers from the city of Tozeur. It is known for its unique architecture, which features beautiful white buildings and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nefta
- Oued Zarga is a town located in the northwest of Tunisia, specifically in the governorate of Béja. The town is surrounded by stunning mountains and is known for its many orchards, especially olive gro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oued Zarga
- Sbeitla is a small town located in the central-western part of Tunisia. It is renowned for its well-preserved Roman ruins, the most important archaeological site in the country. The ancient city of Su... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sbeitla
- Sfax is a city located in the east of Tunisia, about 270 km south of the capital Tunis. It is the second-largest city in the country, after Tunis, and has a population of around 800,000 people. Sfax i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sfax
- Sidi Bou Said is a beautiful coastal village located in the northern part of Tunisia, near the capital city of Tunis. The town is known for its picturesque white-walled buildings with blue shutters an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sidi Bou Said
- Sidi Bouzid is a small town in the central-western region of Tunisia. It gained worldwide attention as the birthplace of the Tunisian Revolution, which sparked the Arab Spring in 2010. Located between... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sidi Bouzid
- Sousse is a coastal city located in the eastern part of Tunisia along the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, historic medina (old town), and ancient ruins. The city offers... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sousse
- Tabarka is a small coastal town located in the north-west of Tunisia, bordering the Mediterranean Sea. The town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and stunning coral reefs, w... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tabarka
- Tataouine is a small city in southern Tunisia, known for its distinctive traditional Berber architecture, deep troglodyte dwellings, and as the setting for multiple Star Wars movies. The region is hom... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tataouine
- Testour is a town located in the north-western part of Tunisia. It is situated in the governorate of Beja, about 95 kilometers west of the capital city of Tunis. The town is known for its rich history... CONTINUE here for a trip to Testour
- Thala is a small town located in the northwest of Tunisia, near the Algerian border. It is situated in the mountains, and therefore has a cooler climate than most other parts of the country. Thala has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thala
- Tozeur is a city located in southwestern Tunisia and is the capital of the Tozeur Governorate. The city is mainly known for its unique architecture and oasis landscapes that are a popular tourist attr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tozeur
- Tunis is the capital and largest city of Tunisia, located in the north of the country on the Mediterranean coast. It has a rich and varied cultural history, with influences from Phoenician, Roman, Ara... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tunisi
- Zarzis is a town located on the southeast coast of Tunisia, bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and unique cultural heri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zarzis


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