the guardian travel tunisia

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

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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

El Jem Amphitheatre

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

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

Sousse Archaeological Museum

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

Archaeological Museum

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

Bardo Museum

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

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

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

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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…

Related Posts

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

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

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

#1 When to Travel Tunisia?

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

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

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

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

#2 How to Get to Tunisia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As always I use Skyscanner to find the best prices.

#3 How Best to Travel Around Tunisia?

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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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

The Perfect 14 Days Itinerary for Tunisia

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.

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

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

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

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Quick Word on Language

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

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

Local Customs

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

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

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

Day One: Ruins of Empire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Tunis

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

Day Two: Sea, Sand, and Sidi Bou Said

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Three: Downtown Tunis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Four: Westward, Ho!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Five: Second-Best Sousse 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Sousse

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

Day Six: Kairouan

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

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

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

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

Day Seven: A Jem of a City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Return to Sousse for your final night.

Day Eight: Lazy Days

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Hammamet

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

Day Nine: Beside the Beach

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

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

Day Ten: Tunis Revisited

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

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

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

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

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Lauren Juliff

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

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EU may give Tunisia more than €1bn in aid to help finances and stem migration

Ursula von der Leyen says €900m will be macrofinancial assistance while €105m will help combat people-smuggling

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The European Union is considering providing more than €1bn (£850m) in aid for Tunisia to rescue state finances and deal with a migration crisis, the EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said on Sunday.

Speaking in Tunisia , Von der Leyen said €900m would be macrofinancial assistance while an immediate €150m would support a reform agenda set by the International Monetary Fund.

She said this could be ready “as soon as the necessary agreement is found”, without elaborating.

As part of the €1bn package, a further €105m will be funnelled into a new partnership with Tunisia to combat people-smuggling, human trafficking and the continuing tragedies at sea.

The EU chief was visiting Tunisia along with the Italian and Dutch prime ministers, Giorgia Meloni and Mark Rutte, who are keen to strike a partnership deal with the north African country to stem migration and people-smuggling to Europe .

It is the second time in a week that Meloni has visited the country.

The EU, like other major donors to Tunisia, has so far conditioned its support on the country finalising a loan programme with the IMF, but President Kais Saied has rejected key reforms required by that plan.

He also pushed back on Saturday at a Turkey-style refugee partnership, saying the country would not act as Europe’s border guard.

The EU is concerned that if the economic crisis in Tunisia deepens, Europe will face an even bigger increase of irregular migrants trying to cross the Mediterranean this summer.

Saied has said cuts to subsidies and restructuring of state-owned companies, which his own government proposed to the IMF to reassure lenders they would be repaid, risked igniting a social explosion. Any new agreement based on different proposed reforms could take months more to negotiate.

Meloni has pressed for the IMF to relax conditions for the loan. She said on Sunday the EU and Tunisia had already signed a joint declaration, which she hailed as an important step “towards the creation of a real partnership”.

She said there was “an important window of opportunity” to finalise the aid agreement before the European Council at the end of June. It was not clear if Tunisia would still need to finalise its IMF programme to qualify.

On Sunday the EU laid out details of a partnership programme that would strengthen economic and trade ties with Tunisia, including a comprehensive air transport agreement that could help tourism and a €150m “Medusa” digital cable link to Europe which it said could support research and education in the country.

It also signed a memorandum of understanding on renewable energy.

Von der Leyen said the EU would also expand opportunities for young Tunisians to study, work and train in the EU to help them develop skills that could be used to boost the Tunisian economy.

The Tunisian pact comes just three days after EU member states agreed radical reforms to its proposed migration laws allowing Italy to deport economic migrants to countries such as Tunisia if a deal with the country enabled such returns.

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Is Tunisia safe to travel in 2024?

By Joan Torres 19 Comments Last updated on April 9, 2024

Is it safe to travel to Tunisia?

This is a question many people, and for good reason.

Some years ago, Tunisia was one of the most visited countries in Africa.

In fact, this used to be a mass tourism destination, mainly visited by Europeans seeking a budget holiday that included sandy beaches and a lot of sun.

However, in 2015, a series of terrorist attacks perpetrated by ISIS that exclusively targeted tourists put an end to the industry which thousands of Tunisians depended on, as many people in the West began to question – and for good reason – whether Tunisia was a safe destination or not for tourists.

To be fair, I can understand all the skepticism but, as always tends to happen in most Muslim countries, that fear has been powered up by the media, who will always tell you only one side of the story but, once you are on the ground, you realize that the reality of is quite different.

This is a comprehensive analysis of the current safety situation in Tunisia from a traveling perspective, including my personal experience, safety tips and more.

For more travel information about Tunisia, read my guide containing a 2-week itinerary and travel tips

In this safety guide to Tunisia you will find:

Table of Contents

• My personal experience
• Tunisia today
• Human rights
• Terrorist attacks
• Dangerous areas
• LGTB travel
• Safety tips
• Driving in Tunisia
• More Information

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

Is Tunisia safe to travel to? My personal experience

From a safety point of view, my experience in Tunisia was absolutely great.

I backpacked solo around the country for almost 3 weeks, moving by public transportation, and I never felt threatened in any way, nobody ever bothered me and I just found absolute kindness wherever I traveled.

Thanks to their crystal-blue waters, Mediterranean cuisine and a large variety of budget hotels, Tunisia has always been a prime destination in Africa, but most of its visitors were either all-included-resort-like tourists or traveling on an organized tour.

There is nothing wrong with that, by the way, but that meant that most travelers did not really get in touch with the local culture.

And I believe this is one of the reasons why Tunisians are always so nice when they get the chance to meet a foreigner or an independent traveler, always willing to help and enormously curious about the country you come from.

There was this local guy I met in a café in Tunis , who insisted on paying for my meal, driving me back home and then sent me a message every other day asking if I was having a safe journey so far.

He was so worried about me and you meet many like him.

Tunisia is safe, but the people you meet traveling there make you feel even safer.

Is Tunisia safe at the moment? A comprehensive analysis about the current situation

Tunisia was the birthplace of the Arab Spring (2011) that later spread all across the Middle East .

That fruit seller who set himself on fire triggered a multi-country revolution that has literally changed the whole world, and led Tunisia to become the most authentic democracy in the Arab world.

This didn’t come without a cost, however as, since then, the economy has been struggling more than ever – partly because of the laziness from the elected rulers, some claim – plus democracy has brought in some positive human rights changes that weren’t well-received among the most conservative and radical wing in the country.

Is Tunisia safe to visit when it comes to freedom and human rights?

Tunisia still has a long way to go when it comes to human rights but Tunisians can brag about having more freedom than any other Arab nation, especially women.

Here, women have more rights than in any other Arab country, there is full freedom of speech, elections, alcohol is widely available, the internet isn’t censored and you can practice any religion in the way you want without being judged.

In fact, Tunisia is the Muslim country where I have most often seen both secular and religious people hanging out together, and even seen women with tight clothes in traditional areas such as local markets, and nobody seemed to care much.

Moreover, despite being a predominantly Muslim country, in Tunis sometimes you see more churches than mosques, and there is even a fully functional synagogue, as the country is home to one of the largest communities of Jews in the Arab world.

I think the only other Muslim country where you can see a functional synagogue is Egypt, in Cairo.

Is Tunisia dangerous when it comes to terrorist attacks?

Yes, all those beautiful changes seem to be leading Tunisia to the ideal democratic country but unfortunately, some Tunisians didn’t embrace them very positively so, as a consequence, many Salafist groups devoted to spreading terror emerged.

And, as you might be aware, the country witnessed a series of terrorist attacks throughout 2015 that literally killed all tourism in Tunisia:

• March 2015 – Bardo Museum : Terrorists entered Bardo Museum and took tourists as hostages, killing 22 of them.
• June 2015 – Sousse attacks : An armed gunman attacked two hotels killing tens of tourists.
• November 2015 – Tunis suicide bombing : 12 members of the Presidential guard were killed.

Looking into these crazy statistics, all of them happening in the same year, even I would think twice before going there, so no wonder the tourism in Tunisia dropped.

According to the World Tourism Organization , in 2015, tourism dropped by 30%, but they claim that in 2018, tourism in Tunisia had already recovered and was even higher than in 2014.

But to be very honest, I don’t really believe those figures.

I mean, I visited Tunisia in 2019 during the month of May, almost the beginning of the high season, and many places were still abandoned and top destinations like Sousse seemed a ghost town. I don’t know, but I do hope what they say is true.

After those crazy attacks, unfortunate events were limited to clashes between the Tunisian army and Islamic radical groups, in the border region with Libya and some areas of the Algerian border, except for 2:

• June 2019 – French Embassy – Suicide bombing near the French embassy killed one policeman.
• March 2020 – American Embassy – Suicide bombing near the American embassy also killed one policeman.

So, from a terrorism perspective, is Tunisia safe to travel to or not?

On the one hand, except for those last two incidents – which can happen anywhere – there haven’t been many problems since 2015 and, if we look into any statistics, you are more likely to die in a car accident than by being caught in a terrorist attack, as terrorist attacks happen at one time, at one precise moment.

Still, the threat against Western interests can be a possibility, so always be cautious.

Is Tunisia safe for tourists when it comes to crime?

Some Tunisians claim that, because of the post-revolution economic situation, crime has overall increased, especially petty crime, but let me tell you that crime in Tunisia is almost nothing compared to Europe, where you have to constantly take care of your belongings.

To give you an example, in many cafés in Tunis, locals would just leave their bags on the table when going to the toilet, something unthinkable in cities like Barcelona

From a crime perspective, Tunisia is safe.

Is Tunisia a safe place to visit? Let’s look at the potentially dangerous areas

If you check the FCO advice , you will see that the whole Tunisia is considered unsafe and a big NO-GO, with a special warning on two tiny regions which they classify as a superlative red NO-GO area.

If you have traveled to any sensitive country before, you will know that the FCO will always show the worst and most unlikely scenario, a curious pattern that they only seem to apply in Muslim countries, because when you look at Mexico City  – where violent crime is a fact – the whole area is a big GO-GREEN.

But anyways, these are the two regions where you are not recommended to go, as that’s where the occasional clashes between the Tunisian Army and radical Islamists occurred:

• Anywhere along the Libyan border – Difficult to reach anyways, as there aren’t many roads.
• Jebel Chaamby – A tiny region close to the Algerian border. I passed it through on my way from Tozeur to El Kef and even stopped in Kasserine (a no-go city) for lunch and to change buses, but didn’t see any sort of tension or issue.

Map of the dangerous areas in Tunisia. Source: FCO advice

Is Tunisia safe for solo female travelers?

Tunisia is one of the most secular Arab countries and, as such, it not uncommon to see women wearing tight Western clothes, especially, in Tunis , Sfax or Sousse, meaning that you don’t really need to cover up and most men will totally accept that.

However, many men are still very conservative and because of all the Hollywood movies they watch, many believe that all Western women are easy, and many solo female travelers have reported some sort of harassment, even though it was usually limited to lame Tunisians asking randomly for a kiss and stuff like that.

I am a solo man traveler, so I am afraid I can’t give you the best advice here, but just be cautious and ask for help if you need to. Most people are decent and if you are in trouble, anyone will help you.

Is Tunisia dangerous for LGTB?

Unfortunately, even after the revolution, homosexuality is still illegal in Tunisia and, even recently, Tunisia’s Prime Minister affirmed that homosexuality had nothing to do with human rights , but it was a mental disease contrary to the values and traditions of Tunisia and, sadly, most Tunisians agree with that.

That’s why before I said that, despite being the most democratic state in the Arab world, Tunisia still has a long way to go.

That being said, if you are a homosexual couple visiting Tunisia, just try to avoid any shows of affection in public, as you would do in any conservative country.

Is Tunisia safe to travel? Top safety tips

Stay away from public demonstrations.

Although most public demonstrations tend to be peaceful, unfortunate events are unpredictable, so try to stay away from them.

Keep a low-profile

Obviously, try not to look like a typical wealthy tourist. This is one of the main advantages of being a backpacker or an independent traveler.

Learn some French

French is the second language in the country and, except for some rural areas, pretty much everybody speaks it fluently, so learning some words can prove useful.

Consider traveling with a local guide

Traveling with a local person who speaks the language, knows about the current situation, as well as the places you should go and shouldn’t, will make your trip a safer one.

I recommend you check for tours and guides on GetYourGuide , a website where you can book any tour with just one click.

For petty crime in Tunis, consider getting a money-belt

As I said, pickpockets are minimal compared to Europe, but they can still happen, so getting a money-belt can prove useful. I recommend Active Roots Security Belt , very practical and easy to wear.

Read my 2-week itinerary

I have written a compelling itinerary that contains the best and safest places to visit in the country, including a lot of travel tips, as well as how to go by public transportation to each and every place. You can read it here .

Is Tunisia safe for driving?

All Arabs have one common denominator which is that they like to drive fast and not follow traffic rules, from Morocco to Oman but, of course, some countries are worse than others and Tunisia is one of the good ones.

If you have driven in other Middle Eastern destinations , then you won’t have any problems but otherwise, just be careful and drive safely.

Conclusion – So, is it safe to travel to Tunisia right now?

Is Tunisia safe for tourists?

While I believe that 3 terrorist attacks in one single year were valid reasons for aborting your Tunisian mission, I strongly believe that today, the situation has dramatically improved and with a very little caution, one will likely have an amazing time enjoying their beaches, exploring the Roman sites, holy cities and Berber villages.

Tunisia is safe, really.

More information for traveling safely 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.

All our guides to Tunisia

• Tunisia Travel Guide
• Is Tunisia Safe?

Check more safety guides

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19 comments

Hey Joan. I visited Tunisia last year as a female solo traveller (I’m in my 20s) – I actually did a write-up about my time there (which was amazing). I’d be happy to send you some information to include in the female traveller section if you like? I visited Tunis, Sousse, Dougga, El Jem, Monastir, and Kairouan, all via public transport and on a budget, staying at local places.

Hi Georgia, please absolutely, you can send it over at [email protected] and I’ll take a look at it. Thanks 🙂

Hi Joan, very useful information but I do believe that the travel advice map currently looks like this due to COVID-19. If I am not mistaken not the entire country was orange/red before! Thanks!

Thanks for the useful information! When we are able to travel again I will definitely go to Tunesia!

Yes Tunisia its safe and beatiful country.

I think it’d be relevant to acknowledge the colour of your skin when traveling to Tunisia – I read that the terrorist attacks were specifically targeting western interests, so if you are traveling with darker/non-white skin I would imagine you would feel safer as you do not stick out as much as a white tourist, who is often associated with the west. As a white female I want to know if I need to be nervous – I don’t know whether the experience of someone with darker skin accurately reflects what the experience of someone like me would be like. Any ideas?

Thanks for the interesting report!! We are planning on backpacking Tunesia some day 🙂

Hi Joan I loved the article. So much insight in preparing for my trip to Tunisia. I just want to enquire did you require confirmation of all the places you staying at when receiving your visa on arrival or did you only require confirmation for the first few days?

Regards Mahdie

Hello Mahdie For entering Tunisia, all you get is a stamp, no questioning or whatsoever, don’t worry about hotel confirmations. Perhaps, you might have to fill a form which asks you where you are going to stay in Tunis but all you would have to do is tell them the address. Cheers

Hej hej, amazing articles you have here. Your blog is helping me a lot during my planing of trip to Oman and Tunisia. Just one little remark: you have functional synagogue in Tehran, Iran, and even quite strong Jewish community in Isfahan with their own synagogue. 🙂 Of course, unless you ment Sunni Muslims only, then you are probably right that only functional is in Cairo and Tunisia. 🙂

Thank you for pointing that out 🙂

Thanks Joan, this section on Tunisia is packed full of excellent advice, history, context and very encouraging, yet also honest and realistic! Just a quick question, is it worth noting that it was Ramadan when you were there in May 2019, so could the reason Sousse seemed like a ghost town and many places seeming abandoned be because no foreign Muslims were holidaying then, and most locals were not active during the holy month, and the Tourist Data was for rest of the year?

Hi Chris! It wasn’t Ramadan when I was there. However, I just came back from Tunisia after my Libya trip and tourism is definitely coming back!

Hi Joan, Thanks for your response and good to see your travels continue. I posed it as a question, but it was more of a statement to give you the opportunity to perhaps update your blog; Ramadan in 2019 was 6 May to 4 June, and you said you were in Tunisia for three weeks in May 2019, so it appears that your ‘quiet’ time in Tunisia was in fact during Ramadan. But I suppose it is all a bit academic, just perhaps a consideration for your readers to consider when planning travels.

So what if you’re traveling by road, and you’re going there to hustle and didn’t have a place to stay at the moment..can you cop? Answer please

Sorry, I don’t think I understand your question, can you elaborate?

Morocco is a Muslim country with functional synagogues. I know that doesn’t affect travel issues in Tunisia, but the post here is incorrect about synagogues.

Hi, travelling to sousse at the end of October but just wondering if this is now perhaps ill-advised for a white british male.. It took 1 Tunisian death to cause the Arab Spring of 2010/11 and now here we are.. Thoughts?

Hi Brian, things in Tunisia are as usual nowadays

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can contact the emergency services by calling:

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

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

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Is Tunisia Good for a Family Holiday? Our Honest Guide

Sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches, family-friendly hotels, lots of activities, and low prices make Tunisia an attractive option for many UK families.

We look at why you might choose this unique North African nation this summer - and examine some of the risks you should be aware of.

What is there for families to do in Tunisia?

Tunisia boasts some of the best beach resorts in North Africa, with modern hotels and plenty for the whole family to enjoy. You'll find swimming pools, beach bars, kids' clubs, and watersports, not to mention ancient Roman ruins and charming mosques.

In summer, temperatures in Tunisia range from 27 to 35°C, although the coastal breeze will take the edge off the hottest days.

Tunisia's popularity as a holiday destination began in the 1960s, when the government recognised the huge opportunities tourism offered for the national economy and invested heavily into the sector. That hard work has paid off: Tunisia has one of the best beach break offerings available.

Winter holidays to Tunisia

Winter holidays are within hopping distance with Tunisia. If you’re considering a trip for later in the year, Tunisia is still a great option. Daytime temperatures in December can often reach 18°C, although this can dip with cloud cover.

With flight times of around three hours from London, Tunisia is one of the easiest places to reach for some winter sun. Additionally, flights are much cheaper than other sunny destinations like Thailand or Australia.

The relatively short flight time is also a big bonus for families travelling with young children; a three-hour flight is bearable for most kids.

Tunisia holiday resorts

Located on Tunisia's northeastern coast, Hammamet is Tunisia's prime beach holiday resort, and is particularly good for families. Long, flour-like sandy beaches, clean, azure-blue waters, and a range of hotels for different budgets make it a winner for both adults and kids.

The shallow waters also mean it's safe for children to enjoy the sea.

Hammamet's hotels maintain a laser-sharp focus on families, with many accommodation options featuring pools, kids' clubs, and entertainment programs.

The area also boasts numerous historical attractions, including the Kasbah (fortress) of Hammamet, the Great Mosque of Hammamet, the ancient Puppet Roman archaeological site, and the 13th century Hammamet Fort.

Hammamet's Medina (old town), meanwhile, features charming whitewashed houses and a bustling market where you can pick up souvenirs and visit local artisan workshops.

Known for its fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the resort of Sousse is around 100 km to the south of Hammamet. 

One of the main beaches is Boujaffar, offering beach bars, restaurants, sunbed rentals and a range of watersports.

Another popular tourist resort, Port El Kantaoui lies just to the north of Sousse, and presents a number of more upmarket hotel options, sandy shores, and a charming marina.

While the resort caters to higher-budget travellers, there are plenty of more affordable options for young families. 

Djerba island

With miles of white sandy beaches and some excellent resorts, Djerba island is another great option for a family beach break.

There's lots to do for all ages in  Tunisia's Djerba: think swimming pools, water parks, kids' clubs, playgrounds and a whole range of organised evening entertainment.

There's also historical sites in the form of an underground mosque and ancient Roman ruins to explore. The ochre-coloured interior is covered in date palms and olive groves, enhancing the exotic North African vistas.

How much does a family holiday in Tunisia cost?

For families on a budget, Tunisia can offer great value. Package tour companies present some attractive deals.

A recent study by holiday firm LoveHolidays suggested Tunisia was the most budget-friendly package holiday destination, with a seven-night break averaging 576 per person.

You might also go for a build-your-own holiday.

Buying separate flights and accommodation can also be affordable, although you might not get the packaged food options available with some tour company deals. 

Designing your own holiday could be substantially cheaper than booking a package holiday - especially if you're willing to stay in a hotel located away from the beach - although these accommodation options are less likely to offer things like swimming pools, kids clubs and entertainment.

Do note that Tunisia has not been immune from inflation pressures, so prices have increased in the last year or so.

Prices for restaurants, hotels and cafes, for instance, have seen a year-on-year increase of 10.2%. 

What's the food like in Tunisia?

Like much of the Mediterranean basin, Tunisian food is based around meat, seafood, olive oil, tomatoes and an array of spices.

Must-try dishes of this North African country include couscous, chakchouka (poached eggs served in a spicy tomato sauce), and lablabi (chickpea soup).

That said, there's plenty of Western dishes available in the hotels and restaurants of the resorts - so don’t worry if you're travelling with some fussy eaters. Indeed, Western food is popular nationwide. While there's no McDonald's, there's the local version, Fatburger, plus KFC, Hard Rock Cafe and Papa-John’s pizza.

Is Tunisia safe for families?

TravelMadMum , who has travelled with children in Tunisia, had this to say about safety concerns: 

"In my honest opinion I never felt unsafe when I was in Tunisia. We explored lots of the local area, people were friendly and inviting." 

That said, safety is clearly a top concern for any family, so do check the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office for up-to-date information. 

Violent acts do happen, and while most recent issues are related to internal political and religious tensions, there is still a threat to tourists and Western targets. 

The terrorist attack in the resort of Sousse in 2015 prompted the UK government to work "closely with the Tunisian authorities to improve protective security in major cities and tourist resorts."

Women may attract unwanted attention from male Tunisians, although this is more likely in big cities like the capital, Tunis. 

You should also be aware of tourist scams in Tunisia

Tunisia tourist scams

As is common with many popular tourist destinations, there are a few unscrupulous characters that you might encounter during you travel to Tunisia.

Here are some of the more common scams you may come across on your Tunisian holiday:

Are you paying too much?

When encountering tourists, some vendors, particularly in the markets and around tourist attractions will try their luck and ask more money for something than it is actually worth.

If you feel that a vendor is trying to overcharge you, the solution is to haggle. Start by offering 25% less than the asking price and be confident in your negotiation skills.

The same can apply with taxis. To avoid being overcharged, make sure to ask them to turn on the meter. It´s also a good idea to use an app such as Google maps to have an idea as to how long the journey should take, you can then ask the taxi drive prior to getting in, approximately how long the trip will take and cross reference this with what the app is saying.

You should also be wary of buying counterfeit goods.

Common as they are in many tourist markets in many countries, items such as clothing, watches, sun glasses and bags, but also cigarettes and cosmetic products are sold without the knowledge of the trademark owner.

As these items haven’t been controlled or checked, the safety of such goods cannot be guaranteed.

Other items to be cautious of buying in Tunisia are gold and spices.

Vendors in the markets and tourist areas are known to sell gold items, which are actually only, often low-quality, gold-plated articles.

If you want to buy gold jewelry in Tunisia, ensure you verify the product authenticity before buying and only purchase to reputable shops far from the tourist zones!

In the medinas you’ll often find “Tourist spice packs” on sale also. These are however, of low quality, so represent no better value than the spices you can buy back home in your local supermarket!

‘Fake’ people

Many hotels in Tunisia offer all inclusive options, which require guests to wear a hotel wristband. This has given rise to a common scam, which often occurs near the souks of Hammamet and Sousse.

Tourists will be approached by a local, and the conversation will always start  ‘oh, do you remember me, I’m a waiter from your hotel!’ which of course is not true.

They hope that you will pretend to remember to strike up a conversation and will subsequently result in them leading you to an overpriced souvenir shop or tour.  

Can I get travel insurance for Tunisia?

Yes, many travel insurers offer cover for Tunisia trips, including Start Travel . 

The UK government strongly urges visitors to take out comprehensive travel insurance when visiting Tunisia. 

Any good travel insurance policy for Tunisia will offer cover for a range of scenarios, including:

• Emergency medical and repatriation expenses
• Cancellation and curtailment
• Cover for lost, stolen or damaged possessions, passports and documents
• Missed departures
• Personal liability

The level of the cover provided will be dependent on the travel insurance policy you choose.

If you are looking to purchase a single trip travel insurance policy for your holiday to Tunisia, simply enter Tunisia in the destinations box when getting your quote. For an annual multi-trip policy, to ensure you are covered for a holiday to Tunisia, select ‘Worldwide excluding USA, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean’ from the travel insurance options presented to you.

When planning any trip abroad, you should check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice  on the FCDO website before you travel. If you visit an area against government advice, you’re unlikely to be covered by your travel insurance. 

Is Tunisia covered by GHIC?

It's particularly important to buy a policy with cover for medical expenses, since Tunisia is not covered by the UK's Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) , which offers free or reduced cost medical treatment.

Medical treatment isn’t free for foreign travellers in Tunisia. Any medical fees must be paid on the spot. This includes all doctors’ fees, medication, and hospital treatment in private clinics, which could work out to be very expensive.

With this in mind, making sure you have travel insurance for a Tunisia trip is important to avoid large medical bills should you need medical treatment while you’re away.

If you have any pre-medical health conditions, you should tell your travel insurance provider about this. Failure to do so, means you won’t be covered under your travel insurance, for anything that arises from, is related to, or has been caused by any pre-existing medical conditions.

Any medical fees must be paid on the spot.

So, is Tunisia good for families?

While being mindful of the potential risks, the exceptional beaches, well-equipped resorts, and affordable prices make Tunisia a great choice for a family break. 

From the waterparks to boat trips, camel rides and the medinas, there really is something for all of the family to enjoy in Tunisia.

Plus, if you’re a movie buff, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Star Wars film set of Mos Espa, beautifully located amongst the Sahara dunes, or the incredible El Jem ampitheatre, the location where the film Gladiator was shot.

However you choose to spend you days during your trip to Tunisia, you’re sure to make some incredible family memories!

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France pulls diplomats’ families from Iran as Israel warnings grow

France, UK, Canada and Australia warn against travel to Israel after Tehran’s threat of retaliatory attack

• Middle East crisis – live updates

France has ordered the evacuation of diplomats’ families from Iran as a string of countries warned against travel to the region amid growing fears that Tehran may carry out a retaliatory attack on Israel or Israeli interests in the coming days.

France, the UK, Canada and Australia all issued notices warning against travel to Israel . The US restricted travel for American diplomats and their families in Israel, barring employees there from travelling to large parts of the country out of an “abundance of caution”.

The German airline Lufthansa extended a temporary suspension of flights to and from Tehran until Saturday.

Iran has threatened reprisals against Israel over a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria on 1 April, in which seven members of the Revolutionary Guards including two generals were killed, sparking fears that an already volatile climate in the Middle East could quickly spiral further.

Israel has said it is strengthening air defences and has paused leave for combat units. The Iranian foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, said late on Thursday he had received phone calls from his German equivalent, Annalena Baerbock, and her British and Australian counterparts.

In its strong warning on Friday, the French foreign ministry advised citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories and said French civil servants were now banned from conducting any missions there.

In a statement on the social media platform X, it added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats would return to France.

The advisories followed a report in the Wall Street Journal that Israel was preparing for the prospect of an attack from Iran, possibly as soon as this weekend.

A US official told the publication that American intelligence reports now indicated an Iranian retaliatory strike “possibly on Israeli soil” as opposed to against Israeli interests elsewhere, adding that the strike could come within 24 to 48 hours.

The same report cited an individual briefed by the Iranian leadership as saying no final decision had been taken by Tehran.

The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, later announced that Israel would conduct a security assessment of reported Iranian preparations for an attack.

While analysts had initially speculated that Iran might not rush into a response, concern has grown in the last two days over the potential for direct conflict between Iran and Israel after years of proxy conflict between the two enemies.

On Wednesday Joe Biden said Iran was threatening a “significant attack” against Israel and said Washington would do all it could to protect Israel’s security.

Biden’s comments in turn followed a televised speech by Iran’s leader saying the attack in Damascus was equivalent to an attack on Iran itself. “When they attacked our consulate area, it was like they attacked our territory,” Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said. “The evil regime must be punished, and it will be punished.”

The Israeli military said it was fully prepared for any strike. Israel was “on alert and highly prepared for various scenarios, and we are constantly assessing the situation,” the IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari said at a press conference. “We are ready for attack and defence using a variety of capabilities that the IDF has, and also ready with our strategic partners.”

According to reports in the Israeli media, the IDF believes that Iran or one of its proxies are most likely to attempt to strike a military target rather than civilian centres, although some sites such as the Kirya, Israel’s defence headquarters in Tel Aviv, are located in city centres next to shopping malls, offices and restaurants.

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