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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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Tunisia and beyond

Tunisia Travel Guide: 2-week itinerary & best destinations

Table of Contents

Tunisia is a fabulous destination , mixing different aspects such as the Mediterranean Sea, Arabic Andalus, Ottoman influence, Roman ruins, and the Sahara Desert. All this in a relatively small country located in North Africa .

I had the pleasure of spending 13 days traveling in some of the most famous spots of Tunisia. On this page, I make an easy day-by-day / step-by-step itinerary that I hope will help you visit Tunisia on your own.

13 Days in Tunisia

• Day 1 : Flight (Ouarzazate – Casablanca – Tunis) – Visit of Tunis Medina
• Day 2 : Tunis Medina – Carthage Ruins – Sidi Bou Said – Tozeur night train
• Day 3 : Visit of Tozeur
• Day 4 : Chebika – Tamerza – Mides – Ong Jmel – Tozeur
• Day 5 : Morning train to Sfax – Visit Sfax Medina
• Day 6 : Morning boat to Kerkannah Island – Sidi Tebeni – Sidi Frej – Remla
• Day 7 : Morning boat to Sfax – Train to El Jem – Train to Sousse – Visit Sousse
• Day 8 : Visit Sousse Medina – Train to Monastir – Visit Sousse Medina
• Day 9 : Bus to Kairouan – Visit Kairouan Medina
• Day 10 : Visit Kairouan Medina
• Day 11 : Bus to El Kef – Bus to Dougga – Visit Dougga – Hitchhike to El Kef
• Day 12 : Visit El Kef – Louage to Kelibia via Tunis – Visit Kerkouan – Visit Kelibia
• Day 13 : Visit El Mansoura Beach – Louage to Tunis – Bardo Museum – Flight (Tunis – Casablanca – Ouarzazate)

Map of itinerary

How to prepare your trip

I bought my plane ticket just two days before my flight . I was not supposed to go to Tunisia but decided it at last minute.

As I didn’t know much about the country , and I decided to travel actually such short notice, the Lonely Planet Tunisia guide book gave me a complete insight into the country’s best destinations. Although most of the hotels I stayed in are not in the book , I used it mainly for some quick facts about Tunisia.

My initial goal was to visit as many UNESCO Sites In Tunisia as possible. So I tried to combine this historical/cultural aspect of the trip and get to visit some other destinations along the way. That’s what I did.

The country is very easy to travel , to find accommodation, to get transportation. All the necessary infrastructures are available.

Tunisia has a lot to offer : great beaches, islands, Sahara Desert, mountain oasis, museums, Mediterranean towns, desert cities, Roman ruins, Star Wars movie sets, authentic Arab medinas, exotic gastronomy, friendly people, great places for shopping.

TOP 7 Tunisia

Although most of the places I visited in Tunisia were amazing, I do have my top Tunisian destinations.

Dougga ancient Roman city

Dougga is an old Roman city. After walking 5 km /3 mi to get there, this amazing archaeological complex left me speechless. This is possibly one of the best and most beautiful UNESCO places I’ve ever been to in my life. I now call it: “ The Machu Picchu of North Africa .”

Kairouan Medina

Kairouan represents whatever an authentic Arabic Medina has to offer. Its peaceful tiny streets make us surrender to all its charm, and the immense ancient monuments are great to wander along and discover a fantastic city.

Tozeur Old Town

I just loved Tozeur old quarter. I mean, a mix of desert architecture reminding me something between Bukhara in Uzbekistan and Timbuktu in Mali. Surrounded by never ending palm groves, Tozeur maintains a certain personality of a desert / oasis outpost.

Chebika Mountain Oasis

Chebika amazed me by its impressive beauty. After a hike up the rocky mountain, we finally reached the water stream, with waterfalls and a lot of palm trees. It’s amazing how such a dry place can sprout such a greenish oasis in the middle of the desert.

Sfax Medina

Sfax revealed to me being very exotic and definitely has a very strong personality. The old city – Medina – is amazing, truly an authentic Arabic old town. Luckily, just aside the old mosque, I got a nice hotel with a terrace where I could enjoy one of the best views of the whole trip.

Tunis Medina

I have to say that Tunis – the capital city of Tunisia surprised me. A bit of Mediterranean bliss can also be seen in the city’s Medina colors. Indeed full of character, Tunis old Medina is a great place to spend some time exploring the immense, beautiful hidden alleys and souvenir shops.

Amphitheatre of El Jem

Before going to El Jem, I didn’t quite know what to expect from an old Roman amphitheater. But, from the moment I got sight of it far on the horizon I got astonished by its colossal beauty. El Jem Amphitheater has to be on the top destinations to visit while in Tunisia. The El Jem Museum is also one of the best in the country.

What to visit in Tunisia

Although Tunisia is a relatively small country, there are indeed many places to visit and get busy for two weeks up to one month. This is the list of sites I visited during my 13 days. If you get to visit Tunisia, this page will surely give you some ideas on where to go and what to do.

Medina means old city and it is usually enclosed in the city walls. In the case of Tunis Medina, Bab El Bhar (Sea high) still stands as the main entrance to the old city, although no walls are surrounding it anymore. This gate is also known as French gate because French settlers considered it to recall the Triumph Arch in Paris.

The Tunis Medina started to grow in the 7th century surrounding Zitouna Mosque, which is today the center of the Medina. The city was a crucial religious place for the Islamic world until the 16th century.

The Medina is a place where you will not only see architectural sites like Zitouna Mosque, Sidi Yousef Mosque, Hammouda Pacha Mosque, Bad El Bhar, Bab Jadid, Bab Saadoun, Bab El Khadra but you will experience the true Tunis way of life with all its colors and scents. A must-do in Tunis Medina: walk through the maze streets, no rush, just feel it. See how people live and work, in the case of the artisans, as if they were in another era. For tourists, the souks are shopping paradises. Don´t forget to bargain.

I particularly enjoyed the way the old city is built, its tiny, charming alleys, beautiful decorated wooden doors and friendly people.

Archaeological Site of Carthage

Carthage was one of the largest cities between the 5th and the 3rd century BC. For long Carthage and Rome fought for their supremacy over the Mediterranean Sea, but in 146 BC Romans definitely took over Carthage and destroyed the city in a large scale. The city was then reconstructed by the Romans and the ruins we can see today are from that civilization.

The entire complex of ruins is a history book, very few places in the world can teach us so much about the Roman civilization as this one. The main buildings in the compound, either for its importance at that time or for structural reasons, are:

the baths (the ancient tradition of historical baths), the aqueduct (the excellent engineering skills), the theater (art lovers), Tophet (where it 30-minute children were sacrificed) and the villas (the houses from the rich people, decorated with beautiful mosaics and paintings.)

There are several ruins spread over a vast area, so you have to walk a lot. I’ve visited the Byrsa hill, the main Carthage Museum, the Cathedral, the Roman villas and the fabulous Antoninus baths.

Town of Sidi Bou Said

It is located 20km northeast from Tunis, very close to Carthage, in the Tunis Golf. It is a well-known tourist destination and home to many artists who found inspiration there. The city spreads up the hill in a beautiful postcard view of white houses with blue doors and windows. The architectural style is a combination of Arab and Andalusian styles. Many houses and streets have beautiful mosaic panels with the traditional Moroccan motifs. The houses and even the pavements are so white that sometimes it’s even hard to look at them when the sun is reflecting.

This small “snow white” village is outstanding and worth a longer stay. Visit the main attractions but don´t miss a relaxing view over the city and marina in Café des Delices.

I enjoyed Sidi Bou Said tiny alleys and streets the most. The terrace views from the Dar el-Ennabi house museum are impressive.

Places to visit : Thameur Habib (main street), Ras Qatarjamah lighthouse, Mersa beach, view from Sidi Chabaane Dar Nejma Ezzahra Palace (includes Centre of Arab and Mediterranean Music), Museum Dar el-Annabi (visit a real local house), Mosque Abu Said al.

Tozeur is a town in mid-west Tunisia, not far from the border with Algeria. It stands in the desert as a beautiful city surrounded by an incredible oasis, the biggest in Tunisia. Tozeur has a unique architecture, its houses are made of brick, carefully placed decorating the facades with geometrical motifs in a kind of lacework. The most curious fact about this ancient tradition is that the bricks are still handmade using the same original techniques as the first people in Mesopotamia.

The city offers many attractions to the thousands of tourists that visit Tozeur every year. In the Ouled el Hadef district, we have the Medina with its narrow streets, brick facades, souks and mosques (El-Ferdous mosque). Outside the Medina, take a walk in the main street – Habib Bourguiba, Bab el-Hawa Square, Sidi Mouldi Mosque and the oasis. Other attractions near the city are the large salt lake Chott El Jerid in the middle of the desert, Tamerza Canyon and Onk Jemal, the place in the desert where the first Star Wars movie has been shot.

My favorite part of Tozeur was the old district. It reminded me of Timbuktu in Mali and Bukhara in Uzbekistan.

Chebika is a town on the feet of Djebel el Negueb Mountains, and it is located about 50 kilometers north of Tozeur. After significant floods in 1969 people left the old town and a new one started growing nearby in a safer place and closer to the oasis. The old town is now a place of damaged ruins. However, it’s worth a visit to see what is left over and especially the view over the new town and green oasis.

Not far from Chebika you will find a small waterfall that creates a natural lake. If you cross the lake, you will find a bigger one, even more spectacular. The beauty of the water sources and palm trees in opposition to the dry and rocky place all over is a breathtaking scenario.

I walked up the mountain to be able to enjoy the magnificent views of the old village, the oasis, and the surrounding mountains. I ended up hiking on a loop, crossing the lower oasis along the river stream.

Tamerza old village

Together with Tozeur and Chebika, Tamerza is one of the most beautiful oasis town in Tunisia. It is about 15 kilometers north Chebika and on the border with Algeria. As in Chebika, the old Berber town has been abandoned after the floods in 1969 and is now in ruins. The new town stands right close to the old one and on the shore of the oasis.

The Tamerza Canyon is one of the main attractions of this region. The magnificent gorges carved by the once powerful river and the reddish rocky surroundings make it an outstanding place only to be seen in movies.

I enjoyed exploring this forgotten village and its amazing ruins. The views of the old brick houses and the canyons underneath are breathtaking.

Mides Mountain Oasis

We can say that Mides Oasis is the last one in a row going south to north, starting in Tozeur. It is a town in the mountains that grew up on the river and oasis side. Like Chebika and Tamerza, also the ancient town has been abandoned due to the floods and a new town has emerged nearby.

The oasis greenery contrasts with the arid surrounding area and the rocky geological formations of the canyon, whose walls seem to have been cut in slices. We can find real paradises of small waterfalls in the middle of the canyon.

World’s largest flag

During my visit to the Tunisian desert, I had the opportunity to go to the place where Tunisians were setting a new Guinness world record. This giant flag is 104,544 square meters / 1,125,302 square feet and weighs almost 13 tons. It took 80 km / 50 mi of fabric to make.

Ong Jmel means “Camel neck,” and it comes from a rock on the top of a hill which seems a camel neck (or at least people say that). In the past, the old town was a stopover for the caravans coming from the desert, but nowadays it is more the final destination of many tourists. The place got famous worldwide because it was the set for Star Wars movies.

The desert landscape of Ong Jemel, not the traditional sand desert one, but an extremely dry and rocky one, can be easily mistaken for a lunar landscape. So it was in Star Wars. But whether you are a Star Wars fan or not, the visit to Ong Jmel is a unique experience. From there you can have the most astonishing view over the salt lake, and with no surprise, you may experience a mirage, due to the very high temperatures and sunlight incidence.

Mos Espa Stars Wars Movie Set

Just a few kilometers from Ong Jmel you can find another “Mecca” for the Star Wars fans: the city of Mos Espa. This is the city of sand houses with domed roofs that inspired the scenes in the movies. The village stands out in the middle of the desert, and it is in danger because of the strong winds that threaten to cover all the place with sand in the future.

Sfax lays on the Mediterranean Coast, and it is the second city of Tunisia, after Tunis. The growth of the city is due to the sea port, one of the most important in the country. The French colonizers have occupied Sfax and their influence is still visible in the architecture of the city. Many new buildings have been built after the bombing during the Second World War, which caused many damages in the city.

You can start visiting the city from the Republic Square where you will find many places to watch around: beautiful neo-Moorish buildings like the City Hall (which is now the Archaeological Museum), the main gate to the Medina – Bab Diwan – and the fortress (Kasbah).

Inside the Medina, you can experience the ancient way of life in the crowded souks and mazy streets. Pay a visit to the Museum Dar Jallouli (a typical 17th-century house of a wealthy trader, which is now an ethnographic museum) and the grand mosque in the center of the Medina. At a short distance of 12 kilometers south from Sfax, you can visit the Archeological city of wealthy, a Roman complex.

Kerkannah Island

This group of six islands belongs to Sfax, and it is located 20km from the coast of Tunisia, in the Golf of Gabés. Chergui and Gharbi are the main islands and the summer destination for Tunisian families. Despite the beautiful beaches of clear water and natural landscapes, it isn’t a tourist destination for foreigners, or maybe because of its lack of mass tourism, it preserves all the beauty of a natural and unspoiled paradise.

If you are interested in some history, you can visit Borj el Hissar, the ruins of an ancient Roman fortress. Fishing is the primary activity on the Islands and at Kerkennah fishing port you can enjoy a picturesque view of the small fishing boats carefully painted.

El Jem is a city in the Gulf of Gabés about 80 kilometers north from Sfax. The city is known for the Roman Amphitheater (World Heritage site by UNESCO), the second biggest in the world right after the Coliseum of Rome.

The Amphitheater’s ruins have experienced many damages over the years, especially in the 17th century when people started taking its stones to build the city nearby and the grand mosque in Kairouan. Today, despite the deterioration of the Amphitheater, its ruins are still an impressive building that stands out in the middle of the city landscape.

Medina of Sousse

Sousse was an important commercial and military city in the first centuries of Islam. Many different peoples have occupied the city, and it has suffered different cultural and architectural influences. From the ancient times, the Ribat of Sousse has survived until today, now being a beautiful example of a military fortress from the beginning of Islam.

The Ribat of Sousse in the most emblematic building, but the old city is full of historical and architectural attractions like the Kasbah, the grand Mosque, Bu Ftata Mosque, Museum Dar Essid and catacombs.

Monastir lays on the Mediterranean coast in the Hammamet Gulf, 20 kilometers south from Sousse. It is well-known for the intense tourism activity that has been growing since the 60’s. Along the coast, a salted lagoon – excellent Sebkha – stretches for 9 kilometers. This is the most touristic area, called Skanes, with sandy beaches and clear blue sea. Here you can find the biggest concentration of touristic infrastructures like hotels, clubs, and golf courses. In this made-for-tourist area, the architecture is a fusion of a new modern design with traditional moorish details that catches the eye of the tourists.

Monastir is a holiday resort city where you can combine the best of 5-star holidays at the beach with culture and history. On the seaside you will be offered all the modern facilities and activities, inside the Medina, you can travel back in time and feel the real culture of its people. Some places to visit in Monastir: Medina, Bourguiba Mosque (Habib Bourguiba Mausoleum – the first president of the Republic of Tunisia), Ribat, Cemetery Sidi el-Mézeri, Costume Museum.

Kairouan is located in the northeast of Tunisia, about 50 kilometers from the coast. It was found by Arabs in the 7th-century, and it was one of the most important religious places for Sunni Muslims. This holy city is rich in religious buildings: Mosque of Oqba (or Great Mosque of Kairouan), Mosque of the Three Gates, Mosque of the Barber, Mosque of Ansar and Mosque Al Bey for example. Inside the Medina, there is a well – Bi’r Barouta – where the city was founded.

Walk through the Medina for the real feeling of the culture and symbology of this holy place for Muslims. Take a break for a tea and a makrouhd (a typical pastry with dates). If you want to buy something from Kairouan, you may choose from the vast offer of traditional Kairouan carpets.

El Kef is located in the north western of Tunisia. It was the capital of the country during the Second World War. The city is on the top of a hill in the Jebel Dyr Mountain, and it is the highest town in Tunisia. Many peoples from Carthaginians to Romans occupied this region with a high and therefore strategic location. From the Roman times, there are the ruins of the Roman baths and the basilica Dar El Kous.

From the old local Jewish community there is the Synagogue of the Ghriba. Other must-see sights in El Kef: Kasbah, Mausoleum of Ali Turkie and the Museum of the Popular Arts and Traditions where you can learn about the social habits of locals.

Dougga is an ancient Roman city, located in the mountains about 100 km southwest of Tunis, in the fertile plains of Oued Khalled.

Its foundation by the Romans goes back to the 1st century BC. However, excavations have shown earlier vestiges of human settlement, believed to be part of the Numidian kingdom, an ancient Berber kingdom. Some of those pre-Roman monuments include necropolis, basin tombs or circular monument tombs, the mausoleum, and temples, but they were discovered only after excavations.

On the surface only the Roman monuments are visible, but unfortunately many are in an advanced degradation state. Some of the best-preserved ones, in which we can identify their silhouette, are the Theater, the Capitol, Punic-Libyan Mausoleum, and temples of Saturn and Juno.

There were many other interesting constructions such as baths (Licinian Baths, Aïn Doura Baths), Triumphal Arches and many temples. Romans were well-known for their cutting-edge infrastructures at the time, like cisterns, aqueducts and even an ancient version of sanitary sewers existed in Dougga.

The place where Dougga is located, at the top of the hill, gives a beautiful view over the surrounding countryside.

Kelibia is a touristic town on the Cap Bon peninsula, the most easterly point of Tunisia.

The town was founded by the Carthaginians and has been afterward occupied by the Romans. About 15 km from the center you may visit the ruins of Kerkoune. The central landmark of Kelibia is the recently restored Fort.

The town is well-known for its idyllic beaches of white sand and clear blue water. This is a Summer vacation destination with good infrastructures for tourism. Mansoura Beach is the most beautiful sand beach in town, and it is the delight of locals and foreign visitors.

If you visit Kelibia, you must try the traditional Muscat of Kélibia, a fruity white wine highly appreciated in the country.

Punic Town of Kerkuane and its Necropolis

Kerkouane is the most well preserved Punic town in North Africa and one of the few left; therefore it assumes a great historical value. When Romans occupied Punic places they would usually rebuild the towns, thus erasing the previous legacy.

Kerkouane has been abandoned after the destruction caused by the second Punic War. Only in 1950 was this place dug out from the sand. We can discern the layout of the villas and the town in general and realize that the town design does not obey to an orthogonal plant as in the Roman cities. The Necropolis of Kerkouane is located 1,5km from the town, and it is a set of vaults, chamber tombs, and the burial site.

A piece of history and a nice picturesque view of the ruins by the sea is what you can expect from Kerkouane UNESCO site.

El Mansoura Beach

El Mansoura is a famous white sand beach near the coastal city of Kelibia. Some restaurants and hotels can be found in the area. A quick trip to El Mansoura beach takes 10-minute by taxi all the way from Kelibia.

Museums in Tunisia

Tunisia holds the most important Roman mosaic collections in the world. Visiting Tunisia without going to one of its museums is somehow leaving something behind.

Tunis Bardo National Museum

Bardo National Museum opened on the 7th May 1888 as Museum Alaoui, the name of the fantastic at that time. After the independence of Tunisia, it was renamed as Bardo Museum. It was the first museum and, for more than a century, the only one in Tunisia. The building where it stands now was previously a Palace from the 15th century. Recently the museum suffered improvements, the old building has been renovated, and a new extension of the museum has been added. You can now visit a modern museum with ancient masterpieces inside.

The Museum tells the history of Tunisia over several centuries and the civilizations that crossed its history. It is, therefore, a place of a priceless historical value. Its collection comprises archaeological, historical and ethnographic objects. One of the most appreciated collection is the great display of Roman mosaics brought from archaeological complexes like Carthage, Hadrumetum, Dougga or Utica.

Bardo National Museums is undoubtedly one of the most worth seeing museums in the world.

Sousse Archaeological Museum

Sousse Archaeological Museum is the second largest museum in Tunisia, after the Bardo Museum, in Tunis. This museum is located in the old Kasbah of Sousse, a fort from the 11th century. The museum has been created in 1952 and has recently received considerable improvement and restoration works. Now it is an impressing building where old and new mix in perfect harmony.

The old but restored walls of the Kasbah keep inside an open air courtyard carefully preserved, and the galleries of the museum are right under it. The museum is known for the rich mosaic collections such as the “Head of Medusa,” but it also displays pottery, sculptures and other ancient daily life objects.

El Jem Archaeological Museum

El Jem Archaeological Museum is located near the center of the town El Jem, in the archaeological complex once the Roman city of Thysdrus.

The museum building is a former Roman villa restored and recently enlarged to receive more collections. The objects of the museum have been found during excavations under the complex around. Mosaics are undoubtedly the richest of all collections, but other interesting artifacts from ancient times are also displayed at this museum.

Sfax Dar Jellouli Museum

Dar Jellouli Museum is a traditional Tunisian house inside the walls of the Medina. It once belonged to a wealthy family in the 18th-century, and it was then converted into the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions. A visit to this museum will tell you much about the everyday life in the Medina. The house is fully equipped with traditional furniture, objects and even costumes that show visitors how people used to live in the past.

Sidi Bou Said Museum Dar el-Annabi

It is an ethnographic museum located in the beautiful town of Sidi Bou Said, in a historic building from the 18th century. The building belonged to a wealthy family and was converted in a museum in the 20th century. The museum gives visitors a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of people from Sidi Bou Said and Tunisia in general. The building is a beautiful example of the architecture of this town, with white houses and turquoise blue details. From the rooftop, one can experience a great view over the old town and its rooftops.

Sousse Museum El Kobba

El Kobba Museum in Sousse is located inside the Medina of the city, and it was built in the 11th century. It used to be a caravanserai of the French and later a hostel. Today it is an ethnographic museum with displays of traditional arts and lifestyle of the people in the ruling Ottoman times. The building where the museum stands is well-known for its dome folds in zigzag, unique in Tunisia. From its terrace, one can have a splendid view over the roofs of covered souks and the mazy narrow streets of the Medina.

Transportation in Tunisia

Tunisia is very easy to travel on your own. Every city has different types of transportation: bus, louage or train. Louages are shared minibus taxis and go virtually everywhere in the country. The easy to travel train system can take you far from the capital. Buses are, without a doubt, the slowest.

Airplane Ouarzazate to Tunis via Casablanca

I took the airplane directly from Ouarzazate to Casablanca and then, to Tunis. The flight to Casablanca took 30 minutes, and from Casablanca to Tunis 2 hours and 30 minutes. I got a nice air fare of 2500 Moroccan dirhams, round trip ticket (230€ / US$256).

Taxi from Airport to Tunis

Inside Tunis airport there are a few taxis that will ask you a lot of money to take you to the city. Following the advice of someone I met on the airplane, I went out to the main door on the upper level of the airport, not the departure gate, and got a taxi that was there delivering someone. So, profiting from the fact that he was going back empty, I got the regular fare by the taximeter 5 TND 1.8€ / US$2.

Train Tunis to Tozeur

The night train is the best option to get to Tozeur desert city. First, you profit from a night sleep in a hotel, and it’s the most comfortable way of traveling. The first class is better, although you will not notice much difference. There are two daily trains from Tunis to Tozeur. The night train departs at 20:45 from Tunis and arrives around 05:12 in Tozeur. The price of the ticket is 26.6 TND for 1st class or 20.1 TND for 2nd class.

NOTE : Get reliable and up-to-date information about train schedules and prices of trains in Tunisia on the website of the Societe Nationale des Chemins de Fer Tunisiens – it seems the English version of the website is still under construction.

4WD Desert tour

The best way to visit all the mountains oasis around Tozeur is to get a place on a shared tour offered by a tour agency. During my visit in Tunisia, and due to recent security problems in the country, I didn’t see many tourists around. I had to get one 4WD for myself.

Read the page : Tunisian Colors Travel – They offer different day tours in the Mountain Oasis, Ong Jmel and Star Wars movie sets. They will happily try to get you on a shared group tour. The price to rent the 4WD for a half-day tour is 160 TND and full day is 220 TDN. If you’re lucky enough, you can share this price with other people. I was all by myself.

Train Tozeur to Sfax

After spending a couple of days in the desert city of Tozeur, I decided to go back to the coast. I took the early morning train Tozeur-Sfax. The night train departs at 06:30 from Tozeur and arrives around 11:10 in Sfax. The price of ticket is 17.75 TND for 1st class or 13.1 TDN for 2nd class.

Ferry boat Sfax to Kerkannah

While in Sfax I decided to visit the nearby islands. I had never heard about them – so that was a good excuse to make a short visit. 1 hour boat trip from Sfax to Kerkannah Island. There are boats almost every hour. The price of ticket was 0.65 TND.

Train Sfax to El Jem

On my way to Sousse city, I decided to stop over in El Jem to visit the magnificent UNESCO Amphitheater of El Jem. There are 7 trains per day from Sfax to El Jem. The train ride takes around 1 hour. The price of ticket is 5.9 TND for 1st class or 4.45 TDN for 2nd class.

Train El Jem to Sousse

After visiting the El Jem Amphitheater and the city museum, I headed to Sousse. There are 5 trains per day from El Jem to Sousse. The train ride takes around 1 hour. The price of ticket is 5.9 TND for 1st class or 4.45 TDN for 2nd class.

Train Sousse to Monastir

During my 2 days stay in Sousse, I also visited another nearby city. Monastir is famous for its fortress, so I took the 30 minute train to go there. I visited the fortress and the city center, and came back to Sousse after a couple of hours. The price of the train ticket was 1 TND.

Louage Sousse to Kairouan

Sousse Louage station is a hassle since you have to buy your ticket before you actually enter the van. So, dozens of people chaotically queue to get a chance to be the first to go. The price of ticket of the Sousse to Kairouan transportation was 4.75 TND.

Bus Kairouan to El Kef

This was a long trip. Buses take longer than louages. I got the early morning 7 o’clock bus to El Kef. The price of ticket of the Kairouan to El Kef transportation was 9.65 TND.

Bus El Kef to Borj Brahim (Dougga)

To go from El Kef to the Roman ruins of Dougga is not that easy. I decided to take a bus to Nouvelle Dougga, and walk around 5 km / 3mi uphill until I reach the ruins. Remember you have to take a bus going on Teboursouk direction, but ask the driver to stop aside of the road in Nouvelle Dougga. From there, there are also taxis that can drive you up to the ruins for about 10 TND – round trip + waiting. The price of the ticket from El Kef to Borj Brahim transportation was 3.65 TND.

Louage El Kef to Tunis

Easy road, the +- 170 km / 105 mi road is done in less than 3 hours and 30 minutes. The price of ticket of the El Kef to Tunis transportation was 10.8 TND.

Van Tunis to Kelibia

It’s very easy to get transportation back to Tunis departing from Kelibia louage station. The price of ticket of the Kelibia to Tunis transportation was 6.6 TND.

Tours in Tunisia

Money and visas.

Tunisia is a very straightforward country to get in. No visa is needed for most nationalities. Getting money is indeed an easy task. Either banks or exchange offices will give you a fair exchange rate for your Euros or US dollars. The country is very cheap.

Tunisia Visa

In terms of getting a visa to Tunisian, well, citizens of 90 countries and territories can visit Tunisia for up to 90 days without a visa. This includes all European Union citizens, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Russia and South Africa , for example. Read more about this on the Visa policy of Tunisia.

While getting into the airport, one just has to deliver the passport and filled up International Boarding and Departure card to the border police and get stamped. Remember that there is a departure tax of 30 TND to be paid before departure.

Prices and cost of living

Generally speaking, Tunisia is quite an affordable destination. If you really control your spending, you can go along your daily spending an average of 25 TND ( 11€ / US$13).

Well, check this out, let’s say Kaourian city: hotel for 18 TND with breakfast included. For non-vegetarians, you can get a tuna/harissa/salad street sandwich for 1.7 TDN, and for dinner, you get a grilled meat sandwich for 2 TND. Let´s say you drink 2 bottles of water per day, and that you can get some bananas.

Cheap day in Kairouan – Tunisia:

• Hotel with breakfast included – 18 TND
• Street sandwich with tuna / harissa / salad – 1.7 TDN
• Street sandwich grilled meat for 2 TND
• 2 bottles of mineral water 1.2 TND
• 1/2 Kg of bananas 1.6 TND
• TOTAL: 24.5 TND

Transportation is quite cheap , and if you wish to go to a street restaurant and eat something rather than a sandwich, well, you’ll end up paying a maximum of 5 TND. I give a quick list of prices of general things in Tunisia.

City taxi rides cost from 0.6 up to 1.2 TND (El Kef, Sousse, Sfax, Tozeur). In the capital, distances can be bigger. From Tunis louage station (near Northern bus station) to Bardo National Museum I paid 4 TND, tip included. From Bardo National Museum to Tunis Airport I paid 5 TND, tip included.

Prices of things in Tunisia

• 1.5 lt of water costs from 0.6 up to 1 TND
• Street sandwich 0.7 TND
• 1 bread in Tunis market 0.2 TND
• 100 gr of cheese in market 0.4 TND
• 2 tomatoes in market 0.15 TND
• Plate of fava beans (foul) in Tozeur 0.7 TND
• 1kg bananas from 3.8 up to 4 TND
• 500 ml Lben natural yogurt 0.7 TND
• Egg sandwich in Remla 1.1 TND
• Bread in Sousse 0.3 TND
• Medium vegetarian pizza in Kairouan pizzeria 3.5 TND
• 3G Orange internet SIM card free at the Airport. 10 GB recharge at 11 TND.
• Swimming shorts in Sfax 10 TND
• All Star converse shoes in Sfax 20 TND
• Bardo Museum ticket 12 TND
• Dougga Ruins ticket 8 TND
• Sousse Great Mosque 5 TND
• Monastir fortress ticket 7 TND
• Sousse Museum 8 TND
• El Jem Amphitheater 11 TND
• Fax House Museum 6 TND
• Carthage ticket 11 TDN

Changing money / ATM’s

Changing money is quite easy, either in banks even at the airport. The airport exchange office fares were the same as in the city. If you really need, some hotels and agencies could also exchange money, although they lower down the rate a bit.

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Tunisia Culture and Customs » All you need to know

Table of Contents

Immerse yourself in Tunisia culture as we offer you a comprehensive understanding of the customs of Tunisia, with its rich and diverse heritage, including traditions, values, and unique customs and practices.

Tunisians place a great emphasis on hospitality, warmly welcoming guests. Family holds a central place in Tunisian society, characterized by strong bonds and a strong sense of community. It’s essential to acknowledge that Tunisia culture continues to evolve, influenced by historical events, regional dynamics, and global interactions.

Gaining insight into the culture of Tunisia can provide valuable knowledge about the intricate and diverse society of the country.

Tunisia Culture

Here are the most important points to begin learning about Tunisia culture and customs:

• Ethnic Diversity : Tunisia boasts a diverse mix of ethnic groups, each with its own customs and traditions. Arabs, Berbers, and Turks are some of the major ethnic communities in the country.
• Languages : Arabic is the official language in Tunisia, but French is also widely spoken and used in business and education. Additionally, various regional dialects are prevalent.
• Islamic Practices : Tunisia is predominantly a Muslim country, and Islam plays a significant role in Tunisia culture, influencing daily life, values, and societal norms. This includes regular prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and adherence to Islamic dietary laws. Most Tunisians practice Sunni Islam.
• Greeting Etiquette : Greetings hold importance in Tunisia culture. Handshakes are common between men, while men and women usually do not shake hands. Instead, they often exchange verbal greetings with polite phrases.
• Traditional Clothing : Traditional Tunisian clothing, such as the “djellaba” for men and various styles of dresses for women, is still worn, particularly in rural areas. Traditional attire can vary by region and ethnicity.
• Cuisine : Tunisian cuisine features dishes like couscous, tajine, and various seafood specialties. It reflects a blend of Mediterranean, Arab, and Berber flavors.
• Hospitality : Tunisians are known for their warm hospitality. Guests are typically offered tea or coffee, and it is customary to be generous and welcoming when hosting visitors.
• Respect for Elders : Respect for elders is deeply rooted in Tunisian customs. Younger individuals show deference to their seniors through words and actions.
• Arts and Crafts : Tunisia has a rich tradition of arts and crafts, including intricate ceramics, textiles, and traditional pottery.
• Music and Dance : Traditional Tunisian music includes instruments like the “oud” and “darbuka.” Folk dances, such as the “stambali” and “mezwed,” are integral to cultural celebrations.
• Celebration of Festivals : Tunisians celebrate various religious and cultural festivals, including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and the Islamic New Year. These celebrations often involve special prayers, feasts, and gatherings with family and friends.
• Family and Community : Family is at the core of Tunisian society, and close-knit community bonds are crucial for support and social cohesion.
• Gender Roles : Traditional gender roles exist in Tunisia, but changes are occurring, particularly in urban areas, where women are gaining more independence and pursuing careers.
• Marriage Customs : Marriage customs vary, with both arranged and love marriages being common. Families often play a role in matchmaking, and weddings are elaborate affairs.
• Modern Influences : Tunisia culture is evolving, influenced by modernization and globalization, while still preserving its rich historical traditions.

These customs are vital elements of Tunisia culture and are readily observed in daily life, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural heritage and the importance of tradition, family, and community.

Tunisia Traditional Attire

Tunisia traditional attire reflects the nation’s diverse cultural heritage, historical influences, and regional distinctions. The clothing worn by Tunisians holds both functional purposes and cultural significance, showcasing the unique identity of the wearers.

1. Regional Variation : Traditional clothing in Tunisia varies across regions due to climate, lifestyle, and cultural differences. Coastal areas may favor lighter attire, while inland and mountainous regions opt for heavier and more layered garments.

2. Tunisian Djebba : The traditional attire for men in Tunisia is the “djebba,” a long robe-like garment often worn with a matching hat or head covering. The fabric and design of the djebba can vary based on the region and occasion. Women also wear variations of the djebba, sometimes incorporating colorful embroidery and beadwork.

3. Berber Influence : In some regions with a strong Berber heritage, individuals may wear distinctive clothing items like the “fouta” (a wraparound skirt) for men and embroidered dresses for women. These garments often feature intricate geometric patterns.

4. Rural and Nomadic Dress : Rural communities and nomadic groups in Tunisia maintain their unique traditional attire, which reflects their way of life. Nomadic communities may wear practical, durable clothing suited for the desert environment, often adorned with tribal jewelry and accessories.

5. Modesty and Cultural Symbolism : Traditional Tunisian clothing emphasizes modesty, with loose-fitting and flowing garments. Colors, fabrics, and embellishments can convey cultural or regional meanings, and attire may signify one’s social status or marital status.

6. Special Occasion Attire : Tunisians dress elaborately for special events, religious ceremonies, and celebrations. These occasions offer the opportunity to showcase finely crafted and ornate traditional clothing, often featuring intricate embroidery and decorative elements.

7. Modern Influences : While traditional attire remains significant, urbanization and globalization have led to the adoption of Western clothing in urban areas like Tunis. Many Tunisians today blend traditional and modern clothing, adapting to changing lifestyles and fashion trends.

Tunisia traditional attire is a vibrant representation of the nation’s cultural diversity and historical roots. It serves as a visual manifestation of the rich tapestry of traditions that have influenced Tunisian society over time.

Tunisia Marriage Traditions

Tunisia marriage traditions are deeply rooted in the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage, with variations across different regions and ethnic groups. These traditions hold a special place in Tunisian society, blending historical practices with contemporary influences.

1. Arranged Marriages : Arranged marriages have been common in Tunisia, where families play a pivotal role in selecting suitable partners for their children. These marriages are often seen as a means to preserve cultural and social ties and ensure compatibility between families.

2. Matchmakers : Matchmakers, known as “khatbane” in Arabic, have traditionally played a role in finding compatible matches for individuals. They consider factors such as family background, social status, and compatibility when suggesting potential partners.

3. Engagement : The engagement process in Tunisia involves a formal agreement between the families, known as “khitbah” or “khitbah.” This agreement signifies the commitment of the couple to marry.

4. Wedding Celebrations : Tunisian weddings are joyous and elaborate affairs that typically span several days. They often include traditional customs, feasting, music, and dancing. The main wedding ceremony involves the signing of the marriage contract and may take place in a mosque or at home.

5. Bridal Attire : Tunisian brides traditionally wear elegant and intricately embroidered dresses, often accompanied by ornate jewelry. The style of bridal attire may vary by region and ethnic group.

6. Dowry (Mahr) : The groom may offer a dowry, known as “mahr,” to the bride as a symbol of commitment and financial security. The size and form of the mahr can vary depending on the families and regions involved.

7. Post-Wedding Customs : After the wedding, various customs and celebrations may continue, including a festive banquet hosted by the groom’s family, known as the “Ftourek.”

8. Religious Significance : Marriage in Tunisia is not only a social contract but also a religious sacrament, often conducted according to Islamic principles. The marriage contract, known as the “nikah,” may involve the recitation of Quranic verses.

9. Family and Community Involvement : Tunisian weddings are communal celebrations, involving extended families and the broader community. The support and participation of relatives and friends are essential aspects of these events.

10. Modern Changes : In contemporary Tunisia, there is a growing trend toward love marriages, where individuals choose their partners based on personal preferences. These unions may incorporate some traditional customs and ceremonies.

Tunisia’s marriage traditions reflect the significance of family, community, and cultural identity in Tunisian society. While some practices have evolved over time, they continue to play a vital role in preserving the country’s cultural heritage and strengthening social bonds.

Tunisia Food Culture

Tunisia food culture is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions influenced by its Mediterranean location, North African heritage, and historical interactions with various cultures.

• Regional Variation : Food from Tunisia diverse geography, encompassing coastal plains, arid deserts, and fertile hinterlands, has led to a wide range of regional cuisines. Each area integrates local ingredients and culinary traditions, resulting in a rich tapestry of flavors distinctive to each region.
• Harissa : Harissa, a spicy chili paste made from red peppers and garlic, is a quintessential flavor in Tunisian cuisine. It adds heat and depth to many dishes.
• Couscous : Couscous is a cherished staple in Tunisian cuisine and is often served as a base for flavorful stews. “Couscous” is also the name of a traditional Tunisian dish prepared with steamed semolina wheat granules.
• Tagine : Tunisian tagine dishes are slow-cooked stews typically made with lamb, chicken, or seafood, often featuring a mix of vegetables and aromatic spices.
• Brik : Brik is a popular Tunisian snack consisting of a thin pastry filled with ingredients like egg, tuna, capers, and harissa. It is deep-fried until crispy.
• Tunisian Bread : Bread is a fundamental part of Tunisian meals. Traditional bread varieties include “khobz tabouna,” a wood-fired oven-baked bread, and “baguette Tunisienne,” a French-style baguette.
• Olives and Olive Oil : Tunisia is one of the world’s largest producers of olives and olive oil, and they are integral to Tunisian cuisine. Olives are served as appetizers, and olive oil is used in cooking and drizzled over salads.
• Mint Tea : Like many North African countries, Tunisia has a tradition of serving mint tea. It is a fragrant and refreshing beverage, often sweetened with sugar.
• Sweets and Pastries : Tunisian desserts are known for their use of almonds, honey, and rosewater. Popular treats include “makroudh” (date-filled pastries) and “bamya” (almond cookies).
• Street Food : Street food vendors are common in Tunisian cities, offering snacks like “fricassé” (spicy fried sandwiches) and “malsouqa” (stuffed pancakes).
• Social Dining : Tunisian meals are often a communal affair, with families and friends gathering to share dishes. Hospitality is highly valued, and guests are typically served generous portions.
• Influence of Berber, Arab, and French Cultures : Tunisia’s history and diverse cultural influences have shaped its cuisine. Berber traditions, Arab flavors, and French culinary techniques have all contributed to the rich and varied food culture.

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These guiding services ensure that your journey is not only enjoyable but also informative and hassle-free. Tunisia’s cultural delights, historical marvels, and natural wonders await your exploration with RJ Travel LLC. Our Tunisia Private Tours are designed to immerse you in the rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and breathtaking landscapes of this extraordinary nation.

Contact Us and our team will make sure to help you plan your trip to Tunisia when it’s safe and ready for travel. Whether you’re interested in joining a pre-arranged Tunisia small group tour or creating a custom itinerary, we are here to make your Tunisian adventure an unforgettable reality.

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Tunisia Tour Guide

Explore Tunisia Architecture, Colors and Amazing Culture

August 6, 2023 by Valery Collins

Last Updated on August 9, 2023 by Editor G

Tunisia, nestled in the heart of North Africa, is a tapestry of history, culture, and remarkable architecture that tells tales of civilizations past and present. From the ancient ruins of Carthage, whispering legends of a once-thriving empire, to the iconic ribat fortresses along the coast and the enchanting medinas brimming with life, every corner of this nation beckons with architectural marvels. The fusion of Roman, Berber, Arabic, and Andalusian influences has crafted a unique architectural palette, making Tunisia not just a destination but a journey through time. As you explore its landscapes, you’ll find that every brick and mosaic in Tunisia has a story to tell, awaiting the discerning traveler.

Culture of Tunisia

The country we now know as Tunisia was once the old Roman province of Africa and part of the Roman Empire .  Then,  Carthage was its most important port, and Tunis was a satellite city in its hinterland.  It became an independent unit under the medieval Hafsid dynasty .

When it became part of the Arab world, it was initially known as Ifriqiya and then Tunisia.  It shares a language and many cultural elements with the Arab world but still maintains its identity.

Zaghouan is a small town on the northern side of the Tuni­sian Dorsal mountains.  The modern town was built on the ruins of the Roman town Ziqua.  It is believed this name derives from the Latin word for water, aqua.

The region was well-known for its springs.  Water was very important in the history of Zaghouan as illustrated by the Zaghouan Aqueduct.  The Roman Emperor Hadrian built this in 128 AD to take water to bring water into Carthage from Zaghouan following a five-year drought in North Africa.  This aqueduct, a masterpiece of construction, was 132 kilometers long, one of the longest aqueducts built by the Romans.  To this day sections of the aqueduct still punctuate the landscape between Tunis and Zaghouan.

A second testament to the importance of water in Zaghouan is its  Roman Water Temple .  Built around the springs in 139 AD this temple venerates water as a source of life.  Roman scriptures and statues of Roman gods were displayed throughout the temple.

Today it is a popular destination for both locals and visitors who scramble freely among the ruins.  Nearby the beautiful architecture of the old town of Zaghouan reflects the influence of the Moors .  They settled here during the seventeenth century after fleeing from Spain.  The Moors established new methods of agriculture and also developed a new plant species, Nesri or Rosa Canina  also known as the dog rose.

The small seaside town of   Hammamet is dominated by its kasbah.  A kasbah is the citadel of a North African city.  Following the decline of the Roman Empire,  North Africa became part of the Arab world and was ruled by a succession of dynasties.  During the thirteenth century, the governor in Tunisia broke away and formed a new dynasty.  The Hafsid dynasty restored order to Tunisia and trade flourished.  In the fifteenth century, the Hafsids built the kasbah in Hammamet as a residence for its governor and a garrison for his soldiers.

Today the kasbah, having undergone some refurbishment and renovation still stands proud at the far end of the town’s sandy beach.  Its exterior may be imposing but the interior is just a shell.  Visitors can climb up on the walls for views of the city and the beach below.  Next to the kasbah is the very small medina of Hammamet.  A medina is the old town centre whose narrow streets are generally lined with small shops.

Bardo Museum

The Bardo Museum on the outskirts of  Tunis draws together the strands of history relating to Tunisia’s strategic position on the North African coastline.  For this reason, the country was an important part of the Roman Empire.  The building that houses the museum is a fifteenth-century Beylic palace and a reflection of Tunisian culture.

Visitors stroll through the beautiful rooms of the palace admiring the artifacts displayed therein.  The palace is comprised of the Little Palace and the Great Palace.  Inside the Little Palace is the lovely Harem Patio that was part of the Old Harem, and the king’s bedroom was connected to this courtyard.

The Carthage Room is off this courtyard.  This huge room features mosaics on the floor and statues around its perimeter.  Some of the statues are headless as the bodies were re-used.  This museum has the largest collection of Roman Mosaics in the world.  It also has a new, modern space for temporary exhibitions.

Colors of Tunisia

Colors often associated with Tunisia comprise white-washed buildings, traditional blue doors, and shutters often complimented by a blaze of brilliant bougainvillaea.  Plain exteriors are typical of traditional North African architecture and commonplace in Tunisia.  The interiors are ornate and an indication of the wealth of the owner.

However, the doors of traditional Tunisian buildings are very decorative.  They are not just a means of forming a barrier between living areas and the outdoors.  A traditional door is large and made of solid wood.  Sometimes the main door incorporates a smaller door.  This acted as a defense mechanism but is also more convenient for everyday users.  Generally, these doors were installed in a stone wall and were assembled using nails and large nails.  The patterns made on the doors were a means of concealing these nails.

The most common patterns found in the old town centers or medinas are the eye, the fir tree, and the star shape.  Other decorations include religious symbols illustrating the various religious groups that inhabited Tunisia.  These old doors are usually blue or yellow but other colours are used.

A popular frame for these doors is grey Kadhel, a Tunisian marble.  Where a door gave access to an interior courtyard, it would have a high door knocker enabling a visitor on horseback to knock on the door and then enter without having to dismount.  Most traditional doors have two door knockers.  These make different sounds so the occupants know if their visitor is male or female – male on the left knocker and female on the right.

Sidi Bou Said is an outstanding example of the colors of Tunisia.  Its narrow, hilly streets are lined with white-washed buildings bejeweled with blue doors and shutters or moucharabiehs. A moucharabieh is made of wood and is built around a window or balcony, protecting it from the sun and the heat of summer.  It has panels that can be opened.  These panels allow the room it is protecting to be ventilated.

The air passing through a moucharabieh was channeled towards water-filled jars cooling it before it passed into the room.  They were the first air conditioners.  Islamic women could look out at the city without being seen by passers-by as their tradition demanded.

Crafts of Tunisia

Colorful pottery is probably the craft most popularly associated with Tunisia.   Nabeul is considered to be the most important centre for skilled artisans of this art.  Ceramics, utilitarian and decorative spill out onto the streets from the many small workshops in this town.  Visitors are welcomed inside to watch demonstrations by skilled artisans who have taught their art generations before.

History suggests that the Sumerians  invented the manufacture of simple pottery.  Later, when the Phoenicians established the city of Carthage they also introduced the manufacture of ceramics and mosaics.  This industry flourished, and their craft was inherited by the Romans, who were famous for their mosaics.

The Romans took the manufacture of ceramics to new heights, and the art continued to evolve with the coming of Islam.  When skilled craftsmen arrived from Spain during the seventeenth century, their Andalusian traditions added a new dimension.

A legacy that can still be seen in the brightly colored patterns on the pottery of Tunisia today.  Every year Nabeul hosts two international fairs in April/May and at the end of August.  The latter is mainly a craft fair featuring domestic and international stalls.  Here, many other crafts for which Tunisia is renowned such as perfume bottles, leatherwork, jewellery and wood carving can be seen and admired.

A career break from the legal profession resulted in a career change and since then I have been travelling the world as a tour leader. I started writing about my experiences in 2008 and I have my own blog as well as writing regularly for other websites. I love blogging as it is instant and a great way to showcase my photography – another passion of mine. I write honest accounts of my experiences in the hope they will inspire other travellers. You can read my online travel journal at https://experiencedtraveller.com

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More from travel busy.

• How to Start a Travel Blog
• Product Reviews

Affiliate Disclosure

• Privacy policy

Our Network

• Travelbusy Russia

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3 Terrain
• 4.4 Public holidays
• 4.5 Tourist information
• 5.1.1 Visa application requirements
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.3 By boat
• 5.4 By train
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.3 By taxi
• 6.4 By train
• 6.5 By louage
• 8.1 History and archaeology
• 8.2 North of the desert
• 8.3 The desert
• 9.1 Beaches
• 9.2 The desert
• 15.1 Violence
• 15.2 Female travelers
• 15.3 Money and scams
• 15.4 Tunisian dual nationals
• 16.1 Health care
• 16.3 Vaccinations
• 17.1 Ramadan
• 18.1 Telephone
• 18.2 Internet

The Republic of Tunisia ( Arabic : تونس‎ Tūnis ), is a country in North Africa bordering the Mediterranean Sea. Tourist infrastructure is well developed, and there are several ways to enjoy the loveliness of Tunisia, including spending time on the gorgeous Mediterranean beaches, viewing its ancient ruins, living its thriving desert culture, or sampling its delicious cuisine.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 36.800833 10.18 1 Tunis — the laid-back capital of Tunisia with easy access to Carthage and a very authentic souk
• 33.881389 10.098333 2 Gabes — large town on the east coast, mostly a rail and bus transit point
• 35.683333 10.1 3 Kairouan — a major site for Islamic pilgrimage
• 36.166667 8.7 4 El Kef — Byzantine and Ottoman architecture in this small town in the northwest
• 35.504722 11.062222 5 Mahdia — former captal
• 35.77799 10.82617 6 Monastir — ancient city with a history back to Phoenician times; these days it is home of the main charter flight airport in the country
• 34.74 10.76 7 Sfax — historic town with a great old kasbah; also access to the Kerkennah Islands
• 33.457222 9.025833 9 Douz — the "Gate of the Desert", a Saharan city known for its date tree plantation and Saharan tourism
• 33.919722 8.133611 10 Tozeur — gateway to several mountain oasis villages

Other destinations [ edit ]

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

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

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

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

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

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

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

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

Climate [ edit ]

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

Terrain [ edit ]

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

Public holidays [ edit ]

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

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Discover Tunisia website

Get in [ edit ]

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

Visa [ edit ]

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

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

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

Visa application requirements [ edit ]

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

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

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

By plane [ edit ]

Tunisair is the national airline of Tunisia.

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

Other airports countrywide serve national and international flights including:

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

By boat [ edit ]

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

By train [ edit ]

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

Get around [ edit ]

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

By car [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

By taxi [ edit ]

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

• Forus Taxi (smartphone app)

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

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

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

By louage [ edit ]

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

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

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

By bus [ edit ]

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

Talk [ edit ]

Arabic is the official language of Tunisia.

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

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

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

See [ edit ]

History and archaeology [ edit ]

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

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

North of the desert [ edit ]

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

The desert [ edit ]

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

Do [ edit ]

Beaches [ edit ].

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

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

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

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

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

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

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

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

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

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

Eat [ edit ]

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

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

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

Drink [ edit ]

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

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

Sleep [ edit ]

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

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

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

Work [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

Average wages in Tunisia are low compared to Western nations.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Violence [ edit ].

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

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

Female travelers [ edit ]

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

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

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

Money and scams [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tunisian dual nationals [ edit ]

Tunisia has recognised multiple citizenship since 1975.

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

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Health care [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips [ edit ]

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

Vaccinations [ edit ]

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

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

Respect [ edit ]

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

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

Ramadan [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

Connect [ edit ]

Telephone [ edit ].

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

Emergency Call

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

Internet [ edit ]

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

Post [ edit ]

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

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

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Travel to Tunisia in 2024: Tips + Itinerary

By Joan Torres 20 Comments Last updated on April 12, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this Tunisia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

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

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🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Tunisia

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

🛫 How to get to Tunisia

How to travel to tunisia by air.

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

How to travel to Tunisia by land

Tunisia has a border with Algeria and Libya .

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

🚑 Travel Insurance for Tunisia

For Tunisia, get IATI Insurance :

• All types of plans: from families to budget backpackers
• Covers both short-term trips and up to 1-year long trips.
• Covers senior citizens too
• Readers of this blog can get a 5% exclusive discount

⛅ Best time to visit Tunisia

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

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

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

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

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

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

🕌 The people and the culture

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Must-try dishes in during your trip in Tunisia

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

🛺 How to move around: transportation

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

Typically, there are 2 ways to travel around Tunisia:

Traveling around Tunisia by train

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

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

Traveling around Tunisia by louage

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

💰 Money, budget and costs

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

1 USD = 3.15 TND

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

How much does it cost to travel to Tunisia?

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

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

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

Please note that the below table is just an approximation.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Tunisia?

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

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

Is Tunisia a safe country to visit?

Tunisia Itinerary – Places to visit in 2 weeks

How long should you go backpacking in Tunisia for?

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

Tunisia 2-week travel itinerary map

Day 1, 2 – Visit the capital of Tunis

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tunis

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

Where to stay in Tunis

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

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

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

Best tours in Tunis

I recommend you look for tours via GetYourGuide .

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

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

Day 3 – The resort-like town of Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Sousse

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

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

Where to stay in Sousse

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

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

How to get to Sousse from Tunis

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

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

Day 4 – Day trip to Monastir

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

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

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

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

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

Then, we went to Habib Bourguiba’s mausoleum.

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

How to get Monastir from Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Kairouan

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

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

How to get to Kairouan from Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to El Jem from Sousse

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

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

Day 7 – Sfax, the coolest medina in Tunisia

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Sfax

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

Where to stay in Sfax

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

For more hotel options in Sfax,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tataouine & around

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

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

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

Where to stay in the area

I recommend you stay in Tataouine.

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

Apartment – Dar Essadeg – Full traditional apartment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tozeur

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

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

Where to stay in Tozeur

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

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

How to get to Tozeur from Tataouine

The journey is rather more than 300km.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Le Kef

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

How to get to Le Kef from Tozeur

It’s a long way, around 330km.

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

Day 13 – Day trip to Jugurtha Tableland

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

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

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

How to get to Jugurtha Tableland from El Kef

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 14 – Day trip to Dougga Roman ruins

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

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

Absolutely gorgeous.

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

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

How to get to Dougga from El Keff

It was a bit complicated.

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

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

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

❗ More information for backpacking in Tunisia

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

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

All guides and articles for traveling in Tunisia destination

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Is Tunisia Safe?

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

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

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20 comments

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

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

Has anyone rented a car and drove around Tunisia independently?

I did, in the south. Very easy

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

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

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

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

Mega helpful. Thank you.

Is there anyway to get from Sousse to Dougga?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hola Joan, qué tal?

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

Muchas gracias, saludos!

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

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

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

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Africa , TUNISIA

Best 10 day tunisia itinerary.

If you’re anything like me, this fantastic 10 day Tunisia itinerary will have you falling head over heels for this north African country!

Bringing you the best of what northern Tunisia has to offer, if you thought this country was just about the desert and Star Wars, think again!

In fact, exploring the north of Tunisia surprisingly became one of the most active holidays I’ve ever had!

From climbing to caving, cycling to hiking, not to mention exploring incredible historic sites and eating my body weight in delicious food, the north of Tunisia absolutely offers a super authentic slice of this country away from the crowds.

So if you’re looking to get off the beaten track and experience landscapes that range from amazing mountain meanders to cute coastal corners, the north of Tunisia is the place to travel in my opinion!

And this is especially true if you have just 10 days for your Tunisia itinerary.

With most of the destinations I recommend located only a few hours travel apart, this is the perfect itinerary if you want to see the true diversity of this county in a short timeframe.

So strap in for my epic 10 day north Tunisia itinerary, which will have you experiencing the best of this much underrated destination…

Related Posts

• Ultimate Tunisia Packing List
• Best Time to Visit Tunisia
• Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia: Complete Travel Guide

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.

Day 1 – 2: Sidi Bou Said

Stay: Hotel Dar Said

I highly recommend flying into Tunisia’s main international hub – Tunis-Carthage Airport – if you’re going to be following this itinerary.

Located just outside the country’s capital, right on the coast, this is the perfect place to arrive into if you want to start exploring the country straight away!

Boasting the cheapest international flights to Tunisia (compared to some of the lesser-known airports in the south), Tunis-Carthage Airport is not only easier on the purse strings, but easier on the travel time too, as your first stop on this itinerary – Sidi Bou Said – is just a 20 minute drive away.

As always I use Skyscanner to get the best flight prices and then recommend the rideshare app Bolt for a price-guaranteed taxi journey without any language barriers!

Sidi Bou Said is a stunning spot in the district of Carthage – once the ancient capital of Tunisia.

Awaiting UNESCO-approval, it’s a beautiful coastal town famous thanks to its whitewashed and blue coloured buildings and incredible carved doorways.

If you like Chefchaouen in Morocco , you’re going to love Sidi Bou Said in Tunisia!

Even though it’s one of the country’s most popular tourist spots, Sidi Bou Said is far from overcrowded with tourists (welcome to one of the great delights of travelling in Tunisia) and filled with locals sipping coffee at streetside cafes.

It’s also located right on the coast, so you can enjoy wonderful sea views and cooling breezes from many of the restaurant rooftops.

On your first day in Sidi Bou Said, I absolutely recommend just strolling the stunning cobbled streets of this beautiful town, snapping, eating and caffeinating to your heart’s content!

Founded in 1207, the town is famed for its bohemian heritage with many well-known artists and thinkers, including Matisse and Simone de Beauvoir all having visited.

Although less than 20km away from the capital of Tunis, Sidi Bou Said is wonderfully relaxed and calm – which also makes it a great place to begin your Tunisia itinerary and acclimatise.

If you want to learn more about the history of the stunning town, then head to the Museum Dar el-Annabi or Palace Dar Nejma Ezzhar before heading out for a drink or bite to eat with the best view in town at Café des Delices.

On your second day in Sidi Bou Said, I then recommend visiting the famous, UNESCO-listed, archaeological site of Carthage, which are very close by.

Founded by the Phoenicians in the 9 th century BC, Carthage became the capital of the African province under the Roman Empire and an extensive Mediterranean trading port.

Trips to the impressive Carthage Ruins can be enjoying independently (don’t miss the views over Tunis) or with a guide.

I recommend the latter if you really want to understand what you’re seeing, so check out this great half day option , or this fab guided cycling tour – both of which you can book in advance (helpful if you’re on a tight itinerary!)

Otherwise, you can explore the site yourself by catching public transport there from Sidi Bou Said (bus or the train), paying the minimal entrance fee at the gate (around 5€ for 1x day full site access) and strolling around the several sites and museum to your heart’s content.

In the afternoon, I’d then either head to explore the historic Punic Ports or, alternatively, hit the beach!

There’s a lovely sandy one just below Sidi Bou Said – it’s down a steep road and is next to the small harbour.

Here you can hire sunbeds or umbrellas if needed, as well as watersports gear if you’re feeling more active.

Day 3 – 4: Al Huwariyah

Stay: Dar Villa Zembra

On day 3 of this top Tunisia itinerary, it’s time to leave Sidi Bou Said behind and head to your next destination – the local town of Al Huwariyah.

Only a few hour’s drive from the Carthage region, Al Huwariyah is located at the top of the Cap Bon peninsula with stunning sea views from the cliff areas at its edge.

A great spot for active adventures, you can enjoy cycling, hiking, caving and kayaking from this lovely place, thanks not only to its green elevated hills, but also its coastal landscape too.

In the summer, Al Huwariyah is very popular with local Tunis folk looking to escape the city – and I always trust the locals when it comes to finding a good place!

They come of course to enjoy the natural surrounds of Al Huwariyah, as well as the town’s wonderful food –  it’s a huge farming and fishing centre in Tunisia, famous for citrus in particular, as well as for the production of that national Tunisian treasure, harissa!

Don’t forget to try some while you’re here, as well as to get out and enjoy a day trip to the nearby national park island of Zembretta, visit the Byzantine Fort at Kelibia (and neighbouring Café du Fort), scuba dive or take a boat trip to some of the cliff caves, kayak the shores around Crique El Mteris and cycle the 20km coastal loop.

For the last 2 activities, eBikes and kayaks can be rented from the fantastic company Escapade , who can also provide amazing picnics to accompany your adventures.

And if all that wasn’t enough, you can also take guided sunset hikes from, or personal fly yoga sessions at, the wonderful Dar Villa Zembra where I suggest you stay.

This independently owned and beautifully decorated guesthouse is an oasis of peace and good vibes, and if you just want to chill by the pool, then this is a perfect spot too!

However you choose to spend your time here, just don’t miss the delicious, healthy and huge home-cooked meals served up at this guesthouse every night.

Day 5 – 6: Zaghouan

Stay: Dar Aida

Next up on this top Tunisia itinerary, it’s time to head inland to the stunning town of Zaghouan.

Another stunning historic spot, the centre of this old town – where you should definitely stay FYI – is another cobbled-street delight filled with tiny atmosphere alleys and beautiful doorways.

Originally a Berber village, in the 11 th century then town was expanded by Moorish families fleeing from Catholic-turned Andalusia.

Many of the stunning Mosques and gates were built by this community, whose legacy survives until today.

Taking a city tour here is an absolute must when it comes to understanding the fascinating layered story behind Zaghouan – including the importance of the pomegranate dye here, as well as the area’s role in the Roman Empire rule.

The best place to delve into the latter of these is the magnificent Water Temple – which is just a short drive from the city centre.

Here your guide can explain to you the importance of the natural source of water found near Zaghouan, and the impressive aqueduct system that was created to supply inhabitants as far away as Carthage, with fresh water.

Finish up your day at the amazing Zriba El Alia – an abandoned Berber village that you can walk around and take in the expansive desert views.

Wandering this ancient site really does put it all into context and, if you keep your eyes peeled on the drive back to Zaghouan, you can even spot some of the still-standing aqueduct ruins too.

Then with the sightseeing out of the way, it’s time to spend your second day in Zaghouan enjoying the beautiful natural surrounds.

In particular, the important Djebel Zaghouan National Park is a must visit on this Tunisia itinerary.

Here you can enjoy ziplining or, even better, climbing with the wonderful Tunisian start-up Defouli.

These guys lead me successfully on my first every rock climbing experience and thanks to their brilliant equipment and amazing guides, I absolutely loved it!

Finish up with a sunset kayak on Lake Sidi Madyen – again Defouli can help you arrange and provide a wonderful picnic too!

You can then end your day with a traditional home-cooked meal at your cute accommodation – Dar Aida.

The lovely lady who runs this tiny place has a fascinating story to tell about her ancestry (thankfully she speaks great English) and cooks delicious Djerbian Rice – a Tunisian classic!

Day 7 – 8: Siliana, Kesra, El Kef, Maktar, & Testour

Stay: Dar Saida, El Kef

On day 7 and 8 of your Tunisia itinerary in the north, it’s then time to head even further inland and really get off the beaten track.

The towns of El Kef, Siliana, Kesra and Testour all lie to the southwest of Tunis and can be explored together over a couple of days if you have a car or guide.

Between them you can enjoy the amazing Roman ruins of Zama, cooking classes with local women and caving in Grotte ain Dhab, which is one of the continent’s most significant caves, so vast that it’s entrance still hasn’t be found!

Other must-visits in the area include the archaeological sites and museum at Maktar (with its prehistoric and Roman temples), the famous Dougga archaeological site, local women sheep-wool weaving workshops near El Kef and the ancient town of Kesra, which is situated 1100m above sea level and tis he highest inhabited town in Tunisia.

A traditional Berber village, Kesra is famous for its figs and olives, so definitely make sure you try some here if you haven’t already!

One of least economically developed regions in the country, social enterprise Domaine Essarj , who operate out of Siliana, can arrange many of these amazing activities and accommodation in the region for you.

Slightly further north, the beautiful town of Testour is also filled with historic treasures and the nearby huge dam of Barrage Sidi Salem offers some lovely walks and great valley views.

Day 9 – 10: Sousse + Day Trips

Stay: Dar Lekbira Boutique Hôtel

And finally, it’s now time to wind down with the last couple of days on your Tunisia itinerary.

And there’s no better place to do that in my opinion than along the country’s glorious sandy coastline.

If it’s resort-life you’re looking for, Hammemet is the classic Tunisian package holiday destination.

It’s pretty built-up and touristy, but if you just want to relax by the pool and enjoy a good hammam experience, this could be the place for you.

Otherwise, I recommend in and around the city of Sousse, which has lovely sandy beaches and a bit more of a local feel.

There’s lot of great day trips also available from Sousse, so if lying all day on the sand isn’t your thing, including the quaint fishing village of Hergla (famous for its halfa weaving), the ancient city Kairouan (with its enormous and very important Mosque) and the UNESCO-listed Roman amphitheatre of El Djem (incase you’ve not had your fill of historical sites!) in your Tunisian itinerary, are all great options.

Otherwise, grab a sun lounger and just relax!

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Top Travel Tips for Tunisia

Best Time to Visit Tunisia?

The spring and autumn months are the best times to visit Tunisia in my opinion.

With a Mediterranean climate, traveling to this country in either April, May, September or October will allow you to enjoy a pleasant climate perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing without being too hot or cold.

How to Get There?

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

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

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

How to Get Around?

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

However as this itinerary will have you visiting many off the beaten track spots, hiring a car is really the best way to travel the county.

Check out these great Tunisia rental car deals .

Top Tunisia Tours

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

5 Key Packing Items

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

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

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

Travel Insurance for Tunisia

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

Travel Money in Tunisia

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

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, the best 10 day Tunisia itinerary focused on the north of this country.

If you’re looking to get off the beaten track and explore the real Tunisia, then this is definitely the road map for you.

And tell me, are you planning to visit Tunisia soon?

Have any questions about doing so?

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

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• Travel Destinations
• Africa & Middle East

Tunisian Culture: What You Should Know

Published: September 6, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Anderea Joiner

• Arts & Culture
• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Tunisia is a country located on the northern coast of Africa, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara Desert, Tunisia has been influenced by various civilizations throughout the centuries, resulting in a unique and fascinating blend of traditions, customs, and beliefs. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Tunis, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Hammamet, or wandering through the ancient ruins of Carthage, you’ll find that Tunisia offers a captivating experience for travelers.

With a population that is predominantly Muslim, religion plays a significant role in Tunisian culture. However, Tunisia is also a country that embraces diversity and intercultural dialogue, making it a welcoming and inclusive destination for visitors from around the world. From its beautiful architecture to its vibrant music and dance traditions, Tunisia offers a colorful tapestry of cultural experiences to discover.

This article will delve into the various aspects of Tunisian culture, providing insights into its geography, history, religion, language, arts, cuisine, and much more. Whether you’re planning a trip to Tunisia or simply interested in learning about this fascinating country, this article will serve as a comprehensive guide to understanding the rich tapestry of Tunisian culture.

Geography and History

Tunisia’s geographical location has played a significant role in shaping its history and culture. Situated on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa, Tunisia shares borders with Algeria to the west and Libya to the southeast. The country’s diverse landscape includes coastal plains, fertile valleys, the Atlas Mountains, and the vast Sahara Desert to the south.

Tunisia’s history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age. It has been inhabited by various civilizations, including Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottomans, and French colonialists. Each civilization has left its mark on the country, contributing to its diverse cultural heritage.

One of the most significant periods in Tunisia’s history was the Carthaginian era. Carthage, located near present-day Tunis, was a powerful city-state and a major center of trade and cultural exchange in the Mediterranean region. However, it was eventually conquered by the Romans, who transformed Carthage into a prosperous Roman province.

In the 7th century, Tunisia became part of the Arab-Muslim conquests and saw the rise of Islamic civilization. The region flourished under ruling dynasties such as the Aghlabids, Fatimids, and Zirids. The city of Kairouan, with its impressive Great Mosque, became an important center of religious and intellectual activity in the Islamic world.

In the 16th century, Tunisia came under Ottoman rule, which lasted for approximately three centuries. The Ottomans left a lasting legacy in the country, including stunning architectural masterpieces such as the Medina of Tunis and the El Mouradi Palace.

Tunisia gained its independence from France in 1956, becoming a republic and establishing itself as a sovereign nation. The country has since developed into a modern, progressive society while still preserving its rich historical and cultural heritage.

Understanding Tunisia’s geography and history is essential to fully appreciate its unique culture. The fusion of different civilizations, the influence of Mediterranean and Arab cultures, and the resilience of the Tunisian people have shaped the country into what it is today.

Religion and Beliefs

Tunisia is predominantly a Muslim country, with Islam being the official state religion. The majority of the population identifies as Sunni Muslims, adhering to the Maliki school of Islamic jurisprudence. Religion plays a central role in the lives of Tunisians, influencing their customs, rituals, and daily practices.

Islamic traditions and beliefs are deeply ingrained in Tunisian culture. Mosques are places of spiritual significance and communal worship, and the call to prayer can be heard echoing through the streets five times a day. Friday is considered a sacred day, and Muslims gather at the mosque for the congregational prayer and to listen to the sermon delivered by the imam.

Despite being an overwhelmingly Muslim country, Tunisia is known for its historical and cultural diversity. Prior to the advent of Islam, Tunisia was home to various ancient civilizations that worshiped different deities. As a result, remnants of pre-Islamic beliefs and practices can still be found, incorporating elements of Roman, Berber, and Punic religions.

Tunisia’s religious landscape also includes small communities of Christians and Jews. The Christian community mainly consists of Roman Catholics, while the Jewish community traces its roots back to ancient times and has significantly diminished in size over the years. These minority communities have made valuable contributions to the cultural and religious diversity of Tunisia.

Tolerance and coexistence are fundamental values in Tunisian society. The country has a tradition of religious pluralism, with the government actively promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding. This inclusive approach has fostered a harmonious environment where different religious communities can practice their faith freely and peacefully.

It’s important to respect Tunisian customs and religious practices when visiting the country. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities. During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, and it is customary to refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours. Visitors should be considerate of these customs and avoid public displays of eating or drinking during this time.

Religion is a cornerstone of Tunisian culture, and understanding its significance can provide a deeper appreciation for the customs, traditions, and way of life in this diverse and vibrant country.

Language and Communication

The official language of Tunisia is Arabic, specifically the Tunisian dialect, which is spoken by the majority of the population. Arabic is not only the language of everyday communication but also the language of education, government, and business.

However, Tunisians are generally multilingual, and many also speak French due to the country’s colonial history. French is widely understood and used in government, commerce, and the tourism sector. It is also taught in schools as a second language. English is becoming increasingly popular, especially among the younger generation and those working in the tourism industry.

When visiting Tunisia, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in facilitating communication and showing respect for the local culture. Tunisians appreciate when visitors make an effort to greet them with a simple “Marhaba” (hello) or say “Shukran” (thank you) for their hospitality.

In Tunisian culture, communication extends beyond words. Non-verbal communication, such as gestures and body language, also plays a significant role in everyday interactions. Handshakes are the customary form of greeting, and it is polite to greet elders and those in authority first. Eye contact is important when speaking, as it shows attentiveness and respect.

Tunisians are generally warm, friendly, and hospitable people, and they appreciate engaging in conversation and getting to know others. It is common for people to engage in small talk about family, work, and general topics of interest. Showing genuine interest in the person you are conversing with will be well received.

It is important to be aware of cultural norms and etiquette when communicating in Tunisia. Modesty in speech and avoiding topics that may be sensitive or controversial, such as politics and religion, is advised. Additionally, indirect communication is often preferred, and people may use subtle cues or expressions to convey their message or intentions.

Overall, Tunisia’s language and communication reflect the country’s rich heritage and diversity. By embracing the local language, customs, and non-verbal communication, visitors can forge deeper connections with the people of Tunisia and gain a deeper appreciation for their vibrant culture.

Art and Architecture

The art and architecture of Tunisia are a testament to the country’s rich history and cultural diversity. From ancient ruins to intricate mosques and vibrant street art, Tunisia is a vibrant canvas that showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of its people.

Tunisian architecture is characterized by a fusion of styles influenced by various civilizations that have occupied the region. One of the most iconic examples of Tunisian architecture is the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Medina is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys, lined with beautiful, centuries-old buildings adorned with colorful tiles and intricate woodwork.

Mosques are not only places of worship but also architectural masterpieces. The Great Mosque of Kairouan, dating back to the 9th century, is one of the most revered religious sites in Tunisia. Its distinctive minaret is a symbol of Islamic architecture in North Africa.

Another architectural gem is the ancient city of Carthage. The ruins of this once-great civilization offer a glimpse into the past, with remnants of Roman baths, theaters, and villas. The Antonine Baths, with their well-preserved mosaics and columns, are a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

Tunisia is also home to a vibrant contemporary art scene. Art galleries can be found throughout the country, showcasing the works of local and international artists. The Bardo Museum in Tunis houses a vast collection of ancient and modern art, including stunning mosaics depicting scenes from daily life in ancient Tunisia.

Street art has also gained popularity in Tunisia, with vibrant murals adorning walls in cities like Tunis and Sidi Bou Said. Street artists use this medium to express their creativity, make political statements, and highlight social issues. The street art scene adds vibrancy and a modern touch to the urban landscape.

In addition to visual art, Tunisia has a rich musical heritage. The country is famous for its traditional music known as “Malouf,” a blend of Arab, Andalusian, and Berber influences. The haunting melodies of the oud (Arab lute), the rhythmic beats of the darbuka (drum), and the soul-stirring vocals tell stories of love, loss, and the joys of life.

Tunisian art and architecture are a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural heritage, blending ancient traditions with modern influences. Exploring the art and architectural wonders of Tunisia offers a deeper understanding of its history, culture, and artistic expression.

Music and Dance

Music and dance are deeply ingrained in Tunisian culture, playing a vital role in both traditional and contemporary expressions. From ancient melodies to modern beats, Tunisia boasts a diverse and vibrant music scene that reflects the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

One of the most renowned forms of traditional Tunisian music is “Malouf.” Originating from Andalusian and Arab influences, Malouf is characterized by its melancholic melodies, poetic lyrics, and intricate instrumentations. Instruments such as the oud (a traditional lute), qanun (a plucked string instrument), and violin are commonly used in Malouf music. The haunting vocals and passionate rhythms evoke a range of emotions and transport listeners to another time.

Another popular music genre in Tunisia is “Mezoued,” which features a blend of traditional and modern elements. Mezoued is characterized by the use of the “zukra,” a traditional double-reed flute, along with percussive instruments like the bendir and darbuka. The energetic and rhythmic melodies of Mezoued often accompany joyous occasions and celebrations, getting everyone on their feet and dancing.

Speaking of dance, Tunisia has a rich tradition of folk dances that are performed on various occasions. One of the most famous dances is “Sbiba,” also known as the “Stambali” dance, which has African and Tunisian roots. It is a captivating dance performed primarily by men, set to the rhythmic beats of drums and accompanied by chants and clapping. The dance is not only a form of artistic expression but also has spiritual and healing qualities.

Modern Tunisian music has also made significant strides in recent years. Hip-hop, rap, and pop music have gained popularity among the younger generation, reflecting their contemporary experiences and addressing social and political issues. Tunisian artists have garnered international recognition, using their music to express their unique perspectives and connect with a global audience.

In addition to the traditional and modern music scene, Tunisia hosts various music festivals throughout the year. The International Festival of Carthage, the Jazz à Carthage Festival, and the El Jem International Symphonic Music Festival bring together local and international artists, attracting music enthusiasts from around the world.

Whether it’s the soul-stirring melodies of traditional music or the infectious beats of modern tunes, Tunisian music and dance are a vibrant celebration of life, culture, and expression. Through music and dance, the people of Tunisia continue to preserve their cultural heritage and showcase their artistic talents for all to enjoy.

Clothing and Fashion

Clothing and fashion in Tunisia reflect the country’s cultural identity, traditions, and climate. While Tunisia is a modern and progressive society, it retains a strong connection to its historical and Islamic roots, influencing the styles and choices of attire.

Traditional Tunisian clothing includes the “fustanella” for men and the “safsari” for women. The fustanella is a long, loose-fitting tunic worn over loose pants. It is often paired with a “chechia,” a red, fez-like hat. The safasari, on the other hand, is a wide, flowing dress that covers the body from the shoulders to the ankles. It is typically made of colorful fabrics, adorned with embroidery and decorative patterns.

While traditional attire is still observed on special occasions and cultural events, everyday clothing in Tunisia is mostly modern and Western influenced. Men typically wear shirts, trousers, and shoes, mirroring international styles. Women have more diverse options when it comes to clothing, including dresses, skirts, pants, and blouses. However, modesty is a key consideration in Tunisian fashion, with many women choosing to cover their shoulders and legs.

Islamic modesty is also reflected in the way some women choose to dress. The hijab (headscarf) and the niqab (face covering) are worn by some Muslim women as a personal choice, while others opt for more relaxed forms of modest attire. It is important to respect and be mindful of these choices when visiting Tunisia.

Tunisian fashion designers have also gained recognition both locally and internationally. They incorporate traditional elements into contemporary designs, creating unique pieces that showcase the fusion of cultural and modern influences. Tunisian craftsmanship is celebrated in the intricacy of fabrics, embroidery, and detailed stitching found in traditional and modern garments alike.

Tunisian fashion is not limited to clothing but also encompasses accessories such as jewelry, bags, and shoes. Tunisian handcrafted jewelry is renowned for its intricate designs and use of enamel, precious metals, and gemstones. Leather goods, including bags and shoes, are also popular, showcasing the craftsmanship and talent of local artisans.

When visiting Tunisia, it is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. It is also important to consider the climate, as Tunisia experiences hot summers and mild winters. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are recommended during the summer months, while layers may be needed during cooler periods.

Clothing and fashion in Tunisia highlight the seamless blend of tradition and modernity. While embracing global influences, Tunisians maintain a strong sense of cultural identity, creating a unique fashion landscape that celebrates their rich heritage and individual expression.

Food and Cuisine

Tunisian cuisine is a harmonious blend of Mediterranean, Arab, Berber, and French influences, resulting in a rich and flavorful culinary experience. Known for its freshness, vibrant colors, and bold spices, Tunisian food is a true reflection of the country’s diverse cultural heritage.

One of the most iconic dishes in Tunisian cuisine is couscous. Made from tiny granules of semolina, couscous is often served with a variety of vegetables, aromatic herbs, and slow-cooked meats such as lamb or chicken. It is a filling and hearty dish that represents the essence of Tunisian comfort food.

Harissa, a spicy chili pepper paste, is a staple in Tunisian cuisine. It is used to add heat and flavor to many dishes, including stews, soups, and grilled meats. The combination of spices, including coriander, cumin, garlic, and caraway, creates a unique and tantalizing taste that is characteristic of Tunisian dishes.

Tunisia’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea means that seafood features prominently in its culinary traditions. Grilled fish, such as red mullet or sea bass, is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Many coastal towns and cities also offer a wide variety of fresh seafood salads and mezze, which are small plates of appetizers.

Making use of the country’s abundant produce, Tunisian salads are a refreshing and colorful part of the cuisine. Tuna and olive salad, mechouia (charred pepper and tomato salad), and zaalouk (roasted eggplant salad) are just a few examples of the vibrant salads that accompany meals. Tunisian cuisine is also known for its use of olives and olive oil, which are integral to many dishes.

For those with a sweet tooth, Tunisian pastries and desserts are a delight. Traditional treats include “makroudh” (semolina and date-filled cookies), “bambalouni” (deep-fried dough balls), and “qalb el louz” (almond semolina cake). These indulgent sweets offer a taste of Tunisian hospitality and are often enjoyed with a cup of mint tea.

When dining in Tunisia, exploring the local street food scene is a must. From savory “brik” pastries filled with egg and tuna to “msimen” pancakes stuffed with vegetables or cheese, the street food stalls offer an array of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and affordable.

Tunisian cuisine is not just about the food itself; it is also a social experience. Tunisians take pride in their culinary traditions and often gather with family and friends to enjoy meals together. Sharing food is a symbol of hospitality and community, and visitors are welcomed warmly into this culinary culture.

Exploring the local markets, known as “souks,” is a sensory experience that immerses you in the culinary delights of Tunisia. From aromatic spices and fresh fruits to local cheeses and honey, the souks offer a glimpse into the vibrant flavors of Tunisian cuisine.

Tunisian food and cuisine are a celebration of flavors, spices, and cultural heritage. Trying the diverse array of dishes will leave you with a lasting impression and a deeper understanding of the country’s rich culinary traditions.

Festivals and Celebrations

Tunisia is a country that loves to celebrate, with a rich calendar of festivals and events that showcase its cultural diversity, traditions, and joie de vivre. From religious commemorations to lively music festivals, Tunisians find any reason to come together and revel in the spirit of celebration.

One of the most significant religious festivals in Tunisia is Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Families gather to celebrate with feasts, gift exchanges, and prayers at the mosque. The ambiance is filled with warmth and joy as Tunisians don their best clothes, visit relatives, and engage in acts of charity.

The Festival of Sidi Mansour is an annual religious pilgrimage and music festival held in the city of Tataouine. Musicians and performers from all over Tunisia gather to pay homage to Sidi Mansour, a revered holy figure. The festival is a colorful display of music, dance, and spiritual rituals that attract both locals and visitors.

The Carthage International Festival is a renowned cultural event that takes place in the ancient city of Carthage during the summer months. It showcases a diverse range of artistic performances, including music concerts, theater productions, ballet, and opera. The festival attracts internationally acclaimed artists as well as local talents.

Music enthusiasts will also enjoy the Jazz à Carthage Festival, an annual music extravaganza that brings together jazz musicians from around the world. The festival transforms various venues across the city into stages for captivating performances, fostering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

The International Festival of the Sahara is a unique celebration held in Douz, a city located on the edge of the Sahara Desert. This festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the desert-dwelling communities known as the “Nomads of the South.” Visitors can witness traditional music, dance, camel racing, and even participate in desert camping.

Aside from religious and cultural festivals, Tunisia also celebrates traditional events such as the Olive Festival, which pays tribute to the country’s abundant olive trees. The festival features olive oil tastings, traditional cooking demonstrations, and cultural performances.

Weddings are also grand events in Tunisia, marked by elaborate celebrations that can last for several days. These joyful occasions bring families and communities together, with music, dance, and feasting as the central elements.

Participating in Tunisian festivals and celebrations offers a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant music and arts scenes, and tight-knit community bonds. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of Tunisia and create lasting memories.

Social Etiquette and Customs

Tunisian society is known for its warm hospitality and friendliness. Understanding and respecting the social etiquette and customs of the country will help visitors navigate their interactions and ensure a positive and enjoyable experience.

When greeting someone in Tunisia, it is customary to exchange a handshake while maintaining eye contact. Tunisians use both hands when shaking hands with someone they hold in high regard or when greeting someone of the same gender.

Tunisians value personal space and often maintain a moderate distance when conversing. It is essential to be respectful and avoid invading someone’s personal space during interactions.

The use of polite language is greatly appreciated in Tunisia, with phrases like “Salam alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and “Marhaba” (Hello) being commonly used. Adding “Mr.” or “Madam” before a person’s name is also a sign of respect.

In Tunisian culture, it is customary to address elderly people or those in authoritative positions with respect. Using honorifics, such as “Sidi” for men and “Saida” for women, followed by their first name or surname, is considered polite.

Tunisians often engage in small talk before getting to the core of a conversation. Asking about a person’s family, health, or general well-being demonstrates genuine interest and fosters a positive rapport.

Tunisians also value punctuality, and it is considered respectful to arrive on time for social and business engagements. However, it is not uncommon for social gatherings to start a bit later than the set time, so flexibility and patience are appreciated.

When invited to someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation. Popular gifts include flowers, pastries, or traditional Tunisian souvenirs. It is polite to remove your shoes before entering the house, unless otherwise indicated by the host.

Tunisians have a strong sense of communal dining and appreciate shared meals. When dining with locals, it is common for dishes to be placed in the center of the table, and everyone helps themselves. It is polite to wait for the host or senior members of the group to begin eating before starting your meal.

Modesty and respect for local customs are important when it comes to dress. Revealing or provocative clothing is generally frowned upon, especially in more conservative areas or when visiting religious sites. It is advisable to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to show respect for the local culture.

Overall, Tunisians are welcoming and accommodating. By observing the social etiquette and customs of the country, visitors will be able to forge genuine connections and enhance their overall experience in Tunisia.

Education and Learning

Education is highly valued in Tunisian society, and the country has made significant strides in providing accessible and quality education to its citizens. As a result, Tunisia has one of the highest literacy rates in Africa.

The education system in Tunisia follows a structured curriculum, with compulsory education for children between the ages of six and sixteen. Primary and secondary education is provided free of charge by the government, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to receive an education.

Tunisia has a strong focus on academic achievement, and students are expected to work hard and excel in their studies. The Baccalaureate examination, taken at the end of secondary education, is a crucial milestone for students as it determines their eligibility for higher education.

Higher education in Tunisia is highly regarded, with numerous universities and institutes offering a wide range of courses and degrees. The University of Tunis, the University of Sousse, and the University of Monastir are among the leading institutions in the country. Tunisian universities have partnerships with international institutions, allowing for exchange programs and research collaboration.

The Tunisian education system places significant emphasis on scientific and technical disciplines, with engineering, medicine, and information technology being popular fields of study. However, Tunisian universities also offer programs in humanities, social sciences, arts, and business.

Alongside formal education, Tunisia also values lifelong learning and skills development. Vocational training centers and institutes cater to those seeking practical skills and specialized training. These centers offer courses in various fields, such as tourism, cuisine, crafts, and automotive repair.

Education and learning in Tunisia go beyond the confines of schools and universities. The country has a rich intellectual and cultural heritage, with libraries, museums, and cultural institutions playing a vital role in educating and inspiring the population. The National Library of Tunisia and the Bardo Museum are prominent examples of institutions fostering knowledge and preservation of Tunisia’s history and culture.

With a commitment to promoting education and lifelong learning, Tunisia continually seeks to enhance the quality and accessibility of education. The government’s focus on education reforms and investment in human capital is a testament to the importance placed on nurturing a well-educated and skilled workforce.

Visitors to Tunisia can also benefit from the rich cultural and historical learning opportunities the country offers. Exploring ancient ruins, visiting museums, and engaging with the local community provides a deeper understanding of Tunisia’s rich heritage and its contributions to humanity.

Education and learning play vital roles in shaping Tunisian society, empowering individuals, and driving progress. The country’s commitment to education ensures that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for a prosperous future.

Sports and Recreation

Sports and recreational activities play an important role in Tunisian society, providing outlets for physical fitness as well as fostering a sense of community and cultural identity. Tunisians have a passion for sports and participate in a wide range of activities, both traditional and modern.

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Tunisia, with a strong following and passionate fan base. The Tunisian national football team has achieved success on the international stage, earning recognition and respect. Local football clubs, such as Espérance Sportive de Tunis and Club Africain, evoke immense loyalty and pride among their supporters.

Basketball is also immensely popular, with Tunisia having a strong national team and a professional league. Matches attract large crowds, and the sport is widely played at both amateur and professional levels across the country.

Handball is another sport that enjoys widespread popularity in Tunisia. The Tunisian national handball team has achieved remarkable success, winning several African championships and making a notable impact on the global stage.

In addition to these team sports, tennis is also widely enjoyed in Tunisia. Tennis clubs and facilities can be found throughout the country, offering opportunities for both casual players and serious athletes to practice and compete.

Water sports are favored in coastal areas, where the Mediterranean Sea provides ideal conditions for activities such as swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and jet skiing. Tourist resorts along the coast offer rental and training services for visitors looking to explore the waters.

Traditional forms of recreation also hold significance in Tunisian culture. Horseback riding, for example, is a popular activity, particularly in rural areas where horse-drawn carriages, known as “caleches,” are a common sight.

Tunisia’s diverse landscape makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The country boasts beautiful national parks, such as Jebel Zaghouan and Ichkeul National Park, which offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation.

Recreational festivals and events are organized throughout the year, showcasing traditional sports and games. These include activities such as camel racing, falconry, shooting competitions, and tug-of-war. These events provide cultural connections to Tunisia’s heritage and are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Tunisia has made significant investments in sports infrastructure, with the construction of stadiums, sports complexes, and training facilities. These facilities host local and international sporting events, further enhancing Tunisia’s reputation as a sporting nation.

With a rich sporting culture and a wide range of recreational opportunities, Tunisia offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of team sports, water activities, outdoor adventures, or traditional games, Tunisia provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for sports and recreation enthusiasts.

Traditional Crafts and Trades

Tunisia has a rich history of traditional crafts and trades, with skilled artisans preserving age-old techniques and creating beautiful handcrafted products. These traditional crafts not only showcase the country’s cultural heritage but also contribute to the local economy and promote sustainable practices.

One of the most renowned traditional crafts in Tunisia is pottery. The city of Nabeul, located on the northeastern coast, is famous for its vibrant ceramics and pottery. Skilled artisans use clay sourced from the region to create intricate and colorful designs, ranging from decorative plates and bowls to traditional Tunisian cooking pots known as “tagines.”

Carpet weaving is another traditional craft that has been passed down from generation to generation. The city of Kairouan is known for its exquisite carpets woven with intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Each carpet is a unique piece of art, reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship of the weaver.

Leatherwork is a highly esteemed craft in Tunisia, with artisans producing a wide range of leather goods. From bags and shoes to belts and accessories, traditional leather craftsmen use techniques that have been honed over centuries to create high-quality products.

Embroidery is a skill that is deeply ingrained in Tunisian culture. Elaborate embroidery can be found on traditional clothing, such as the safasari for women and the fustanella for men. Tunisian embroidery is characterized by its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, showcasing the artistic talents of Tunisian women.

Palm weaving is a traditional craft practiced primarily in rural areas, where palm trees are abundant. Tunisian artisans skillfully weave palm leaves into baskets, bags, mats, and other useful items. The natural and sustainable materials used in palm weaving make it an eco-friendly and culturally significant craft.

Pottery, leatherwork, embroidery, and palm weaving are just a few examples of the traditional crafts and trades in Tunisia. These crafts not only preserve cultural heritage but also provide income and livelihoods for local artisans, ensuring the continuation of these age-old traditions in a modern context.

For visitors to Tunisia, traditional crafts offer a unique opportunity to take home a piece of the country’s rich heritage. Local markets, known as “souks,” are treasure troves of handcrafted products, where visitors can find an array of traditional crafts and support local artisans.

Efforts are being made to promote and preserve traditional crafts in Tunisia. Artisan cooperatives, craft centers, and festivals provide platforms for artisans to showcase their work, share their skills, and pass down their knowledge to the next generation.

By appreciating and supporting traditional crafts and trades in Tunisia, visitors not only bring home beautiful and authentic souvenirs but also contribute to the preservation of these valuable cultural traditions.

Contemporary Tunisian Culture

Tunisian culture is a vibrant tapestry that seamlessly blends traditional customs with modern influences. In recent years, Tunisia has experienced a cultural renaissance, with a flourishing arts scene, a growing focus on women’s rights, and a push for social and political reforms.

One of the most notable aspects of contemporary Tunisian culture is the vibrant street art scene. Walls in cities like Tunis and Sidi Bou Said are adorned with colorful murals, expressing social and political messages as well as showcasing the creativity and talent of Tunisian artists. Street art has become a form of cultural expression, fostering a sense of pride and identity among Tunisians.

Tunisian cinema has also gained international recognition, with a new wave of talented filmmakers making waves in the industry. Films like “Hedi” and “Beauty and the Dogs” have received critical acclaim and shed light on social and political issues, while also reflecting the evolving cultural landscape of Tunisia.

Women’s rights and gender equality have become prominent topics of discussion and activism in Tunisia. The country has made significant strides in promoting women’s rights, abolishing discriminatory laws, and advancing gender equality in various sectors. Tunisian women have played key roles in politics, business, and arts, challenging societal norms and contributing to a more inclusive and progressive society.

Tunisia has also experienced a growing interest in preserving and promoting the Amazigh (Berber) culture and language. Efforts are underway to teach Amazigh in schools, revitalize traditional Amazigh music and arts, and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of the Amazigh communities in Tunisia.

Music continues to be a vibrant part of contemporary Tunisian culture. The rise of modern music genres such as hip-hop, rap, and pop has given a platform to Tunisian artists to express their creativity and address social issues. Tunisian musicians are gaining popularity in the international music scene, using their art to provoke thought and connect with global audiences.

Tunisian cuisine has also undergone a modern transformation, with a fusion of traditional flavors and contemporary culinary techniques. Chefs are reinventing classic Tunisian dishes, infusing them with international influences and presenting them in innovative ways. This gastronomic evolution is further elevating Tunisia’s profile as a culinary destination.

With the advent of technology and social media, Tunisians are finding new ways to connect and express themselves. Social media platforms have become powerful tools for activism, allowing Tunisians to raise their voices, highlight social injustices, and advocate for change.

Contemporary Tunisian culture is a dynamic and evolving entity, shaped by the interplay of tradition and innovation. It is a reflection of Tunisia’s rich history, its diverse society, and its deep-rooted aspirations for progress and social transformation.

Tunisia is a country that offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, blending ancient traditions with modern influences. From its diverse geography and storied history to its vibrant arts scene, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Tunisia leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Understanding Tunisian culture is key to fully appreciating all that this beautiful country has to offer. Whether it’s exploring the ancient ruins of Carthage, immersing oneself in the lively souks, or indulging in the flavors of traditional Tunisian cuisine, each experience provides a deeper glimpse into the unique customs and traditions of the Tunisian people.

Tunisia’s cultural heritage is not confined to the past; it continues to evolve and adapt to the present. The burgeoning arts scene, the fight for gender equality, the digital activism, and the revitalization of traditional crafts all contribute to the vibrant contemporary culture of Tunisia.

As a visitor, immersing oneself in Tunisian culture involves respecting local customs, engaging in meaningful interactions, and embracing the warmth and generosity of the people. Whether it’s attending a traditional festival, exploring the diverse landscapes, or engaging in a conversation with a local, Tunisia offers countless opportunities for cultural exchange and personal growth.

Through an appreciation of Tunisia’s geographical, historical, religious, artistic, and social intricacies, one gains a profound understanding of the essence of Tunisian culture. It is a culture that celebrates diversity, bridges past and present, and embraces progress while honoring traditions.

By delving into Tunisian culture, visitors not only enrich their own experiences but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of this unique heritage. Tunisia welcomes those who seek to explore, learn, and connect, offering a warm invitation to discover the treasures hidden within its rich cultural tapestry.

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THE ULTIMATE TUNISIA ITINERARY

15 Jun 2023   ||    TUNISIA

Tunisia, sandwiched between the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean, is an enchanting land of contrasts. In the south, epic Sahara Desert landscapes stretch endlessly. Slow, sun-bleached island life beckons and ancient, fortified Berber villages dot the horizon. To the north, verdant, hilly farmland, scattered with sporadic Roman ruins, surround the metropolitan capital of Tunis . No matter where you visit, the energetic medina alleys buzz with souq vendors that rarely, if ever, see foreign tourists. Whether you’re in Tunisia to experience a little bit of north African Maghreb culture, explore a Star Wars filming location or chill on a beach, an adventure around Tunisia will not disappoint.

Tunisia is a distinctive nation that deserves so many more visitors than it receives. Offering up exciting opportunities for independent travellers, whether road tripping or backpacking on affordable public transport, it’s ideal for your next trip!

This Tunisia itinerary will have you checking out the top sites across the country, regardless of your travel style. Whether on a strict budget or looking to splash out a little, both options result in a fantastic Tunisian holiday.

For a general introduction to travelling around Tunisia, including transport, money, accommodation, prices, sim cards, clothing, language, safety, Ramadan, seasons and more, check out our backpacking in Tunisia guide.

Why Tunisia?

Tunisia is perceived by some as the little sibling of tourist-mecca Morocco; however, we consider this a little unfair. Tunisia absolutely holds its own; with eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and more Roman-Punic ruins than you can visit in one trip, it’s got the culture buff covered. The country also has dynamic medinas, just like Morocco, but without the touts, price-hikes, hassle and crowds. It also has some beautiful Mediterranean beaches with glistening turquoise oceans, surrounded by little cafes and fashionable bars. 

In the south, it’s often about Star Wars for many, with a multitude of references and filming locations. For the rest, this region, in our opinion at least, is spectacular because of the ksars (ancient, fortified villages), often set dramatically high on cliffs, resulting in impressive views. There are more ksars that you can count in southern Tunisia – later, we’ll mention our favourites.

As you travel west, Tunisia starts to blend with the Sahara Desert; in fact, Douz is colloquially named ‘the gateway to the Sahara’. Make the journey across Chott El Jerid, the largest salt pan in the Sahara, arriving at the ancient town of Tozeur. This dense, hectic little place near the border with Algeria, surrounded by deserts and date palms, feels distinct from the rest of Tunisia.

In the far north west, a change in scenery will have you imagining you’re in the north of England! The region is packed with olive-green farmland, grazing sheep and some of the greatest archaeological sites in Tunisia.

We believe this Tunisia itinerary can satisfy any range of interests. Included here are hiking opportunities, medinas, beaches, ruins, villages and things to do within the capital city, Tunis .

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TUNISIA ITINERARY

Here are our personal top-eleven highlights in Tunisia to motivate you!

El Jem – a spectacular Roman Amphitheatre to rival Rome, but with a fraction of the visitors.

Sousse Medina – iconic blue and white décor meets friendly residents, this was our favourite medina in Tunisia.

Djerbahood – world class street art in a traditional Djerba village.

Ain Darahim – English countryside on the northern Algerian border.

Bizerte – tourist-free, pretty port town with colourful buildings.

Dougga – set up on a hill with impressive views, these are the greatest (in our opinion) Roman ruins in Tunisia.

Kairouan – home to the oldest mosque in northern Africa and a centre for Arabic learning.

Mosque of the Seven Sleepers – a quirky mosque just outside Chenini, one of the many beautiful ksars in Tataouine.

Chott El Jerid – cruising the largest salt pan in the Sahara feels otherworldly.

Sidi Bou Said – although touristy, the beauty of this azure and white suburb of Tunis cannot be denied.

Zaghouan – a hikers mecca; the tallest mountain in eastern Tunisia and a challenging trek.

GETTING AROUND ON THIS TUNISIA ITINERARY

This Tunisia itinerary has been written with both public transport and self-driving in mind.

Louages, or public minivan services, operate from every town and are fast. They do not get overpacked and are a very cost-effective way of navigating the country. Trains are another public transport option but apparently are uncomfortable and slow outside of Tunis. Public transport is ideal for travellers with a little more time, as it can be a little less flexible than driving. For more information, check out our guide to backpacking around Tunisia .

We found self-driving was the easiest and most time-conscious way to travel around Tunisia. The roads are decent, the drivers are fine and we found it to be pretty straightforward over all, even in Tunis. This option is better for people trying to fit more in their schedule or wanting more flexibility. Check out our driving in Tunisia guide for more details.

CAR HIRE FOR THIS TUNISIA ITINERARY

We always rent our vehicles all over the world, including our recent trip to Tunisia, with Discover Cars . They’re often the most affordable, plus they paid out immediately on an insurance claim we made when our car took some heavy damage in Sicily. We fully recommend them.

If you book through the link below, we make a small profit, at zero cost to you, which helps us write these posts with no advertising! We only endorse products and companies we *actually* use regularly. For more information, read our position on affiliates .

TAKE A LOOK BELOW OR  CHECK CAR RENTAL  

TUNISIA ITINERARY MAP

Below is a saveable Google Map with all the places mentioned on this Tunisia itinerary.  Cities are marked in purple, ruins are marked in red and other places of interest are in yellow.

To save the map to your Google Maps, click on the star icon by the title.

TUNISIA ITINERARY

This itinerary can be stretched over three or even four weeks (or cut down to as little as two), depending on transport and energy levels. There are optional extras included for travellers with more time and notes where trips can be done quicker. We believe this to be the best Tunisia itinerary for first time visitors who want to see a little of everything the country has to offer.

Where we have accommodation or restaurant suggestions, we’ve mentioned them (only ones we have personal experience with and liked!). Any places with entry or parking fees are also noted.

If a destination is a bit more tricky or slow to reach with a louage (extremely rare), that is also noted. The distances between locations are for cars; louages may have more convoluted routes!

⋅ Tunis: 1-3 days ⋅

Most international visitors arrive by air into Tunis International Airport, or by ferry into Goulette Port. We arrived by ferry and left by air.

Spend a few days getting settled in and check out some of what Tunis has to offer, including the big-hitters Carthage and Sidi Bou Said, the UNESCO designated Tunis Medina and the Bardo Museum (if it is open). These activities and many more day trips are detailed in our Weekend in Tunis guide.

Number of Days: This would comfortably cover two full days unless you rush about a lot.

Accommodation suggestion: Dar El Jeld (for an incredible luxury stay with superb rooftop bar and restaurant).

⋅ Sousse – Monastir – Kairouan: 2-3 days ⋅

Although Sousse is a popular beach lover’s destination, we adored the town for its UNESCO designated medina . The walled old town of Sousse was one of our trip highlights and we recommend a stop in Sousse just for this alone.

Another valuable stop nearby is Kairouan, the fourth most holy city in Islam, with its famous Grand Mosque from 670 CE. It is also a fantastic place to pick up a Tunisian rug if you have shopping on your to-do list.

Monastir, just a little east of Sousse, is known for its ribat (a small frontier fortification) and oceanfront promenade.

All these cities were particularly friendly. We felt at ease in all of them, with no touts or hassle anywhere. There is a little more information about these three towns in our Tunis guide .

Route: we would recommend choosing accommodation in either Sousse or Monastir (depending on your preferences), and spending an afternoon/evening at the Sousse Medina , a half-day wandering around Monastir and a half-day/day trip to Kairouan.

Number of days: if you are in a rush, drive to Sousse/Monastir, spending the afternoon/evening and an overnight stay, then drive to Kairouan the next morning and onto the next stop below.

Accommodation: for somewhere that feels a little less resorty, stay near the Sousse medina, or head out towards Monastir, where this classic Tunisian seafront town mixes with ancient architecture, resulting in a far more local vibe. Our recommendation: Dar Lekbira Boutique Hotel (Sousse Medina area – medium budget, no immediate parking, but free parking directly outside the medina).

⋅ El Jem – Sfax: 1 day ⋅

El Jem is an itinerary highlight for most visitors to Tunisia. It’s an imposing Roman Amphitheatre (entry fee 8 TND) set in the centre of the town of El Jem, an hour drive south of Sousse. Spend the morning and grab some amazing croissants from the local bakery (we found the best ones here!). 

Next, head south to Sfax to check out the medina. We didn’t love the vibes in Sfax as much as Sousse (the drivers have anger management issues there it seems), however the medina is still world class and worth a visit. Settle in for the night near the medina.

Accommodation: Borj Dhiafa (we didn’t stay here but heard so many good things about it from others we know who did).

⋅ Djerba: 3-4 days ⋅

Djerba is a place where you could choose to shorten or extend your stay. Some might hang around for the beaches (depending on the season – summer is packed with sunworshippers in Djerba). Others might just stay for enough time to see the exquisite village of Erriadh, where the Djerbahood project is, visit the famous El Ghriba synagogue, take a wander along the coast , spot flamingos or explore an abandoned hotel.

Number of days: we travel slow and spent five days on the island of Djerba. During this time (it was April so not exactly beach weather), we did everything listed above and just had a rest! Djerba is also known for quad biking, horseback riding and water sports if any of these are your cup of tea. You could easily spend just two days, have a look around and move on if you’re pressed for time though.

Accommodation: Dar Lola (super friendly, really central, right in the middle of the old town in Houmk Souq).

⋅ Tataouine: 2-3 days ⋅

Most notable as the namesake of Luke Skywalker’s home ‘Tatooine’ in Star Wars, this cracking little town has a plethora of places to visit if you have the time (rarely Star Wars related, but everyone you speak to will mention it anyway!).

A major highlight of the region are the ksars, or fortified villages. There are a multitude of these ancient settlements, dotted around the cliffs and hills encircling Tataouine. Here are some of our favourite ksars (plus a few that were strongly recommended but couldn’t get to due to time restraints):

♦ Beni Barka (car friendly)

♦ Ouled Soltane (car friendly and Star Wars related)

♦ El Mourabitine (car friendly with a small walk)

♦ Old Chenini (car friendly)

♦ Ksar Tounket (mostly car friendly)

There are far more, such as the desert encompassed oasis of Ksar Ghilane (further south, unsealed roads, also accessible from Douz) and Toujane, which is beautiful (car friendly) but much nearer Matmata.

Number of days: as with previous stops, stay as long as you think you’ll need here. We recommend at least three days, two nights to explore the ksars, depending on when you leave Djerba.

Accommodation: Dar Essadeg (by far the best accommodation in Tataouine, extremely helpful owner, central location).

⋅ Matmata – Douz – Tozeur: 2-5 nights ⋅

There are relatively few long driving days on this trip – but this is one of them. It’s easy to split the journey into one or even two nights if you want – which you will need to do if you are travelling by public transport and want to stop everywhere. Or miss out Matmata and Douz altogether, which are both optional stops on this Tunisia itinerary.

Matmata – optional

Matmata is best known for the location of Luke Skywalker’s house in the original Star Wars films. Obviously if you are not a fan of the franchise, then give this stop a miss! The building has been transformed into a hotel, named ‘Hotel Sidi Idriss’. This is now a major tourist attraction; you can stay overnight at the hotel or just pay a nominal fee to look around. We didn’t do this as we don’t care enough about Star Wars to deal with the hassle, plus the hotel has some seriously sketchy reviews – be prepared.

Matmata is not a fun place to be, generally. Men on motorbikes followed us and people tried to stop our car in the street to sell troglodyte tours and Star Wars related stuff. Despite this, we really, really liked the region surrounding Matmata though – there was some utterly breathtaking scenery. For example, near Matmata is Toujane, a beautiful little village, great if you want a homestay somewhere (and much nicer than Matmata, in our opinion). The scenery past Matmata towards Douz is also worth your time.

Douz – optional

Douz is a low-key town which acts as the ‘gateway to the Sahara’. It actually has a gate that people get their Instagram photos taken in front of! The town is known for massive date palm plantations and expeditions into the expanse of sand dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental (‘erg’ means a giant field of sand dunes). If this is something you fancy doing, consider spending a night in one of the many desert camps in the area. With a little more time, there are dune bashing opportunities or even multi-day adventures.

To book a tour in advance (you can find an in-person operator in Douz if you prefer to reserve in person), we recommend using Get Your Guide . 

The outback town of Tozeur is nestled near the Algerian border on the western edge of the huge Saharan salt pan Chott El Jerid, a tentative UNESCO site. It is known for date farming and, of course, Star Wars! 

Within Tozeur itself, the unique geometric brickwork is pretty impressive, often in the shape of flowers or Arabic words. This can be spotted all over the city, especially around the medina, which is also worth visiting. Nearby the medina is a massive palm grove, with hundreds of thousands of trees. You can drive, walk or cycle around and there are several parks and tourist activities to check out.

The town felt friendly to us, but there are a lot of organised excursions in Tozeur during the high season (many French visitors everywhere). With the influx of tourists comes touts and a bit of hassle, so come prepared (this is only an issue around popular sites, the city itself was no problem).

We self-drove in Tunisia, so avoided all the larger organised groups (occasionally there were convoys of identical jeeps driving in formation, but that was it) and they did not impact on our trip. 

- Star Wars

Popular places to visit in Tozeur include the adjacent Star Wars sites of Ong Jamal and Mos Espa. The latter requires a four-wheel drive vehicle (unless you’re brave); both are crammed with abusive, awful touts and animal cruelty (just read the reviews before you decide to visit).

If you are looking for a slightly more off-beat Star Wars site, consider visiting the Lars Homestead right near the Algerian border past Naftah. It’s significant if you’re a Star Wars fan and there’s very little in the way of hassle. The sandy track could be a potential issue with a rental car though.

- Oasis Towns

Other popular attractions near Tozeur are the three oasis villages of Tamerza (also spelled Tamaghza/Tamaqzah), Chebika and Mides. These are small settlements with oases, set in the cliffs, literally on the border with Algeria. The scenery encompassing the three communities is awesome; the drive is epic, the mountains and canyons even more so.

However, these three spots are very touristy – surprisingly so, considering their remote location. Even in the middle of nowhere, someone will find you to sell a tour. Motorbikes will follow your car and every time you stop you will be approached. It is a stunning region and generally friendly, but we did experience some very uncharacteristic hassle here.

Route : if short on time, you can choose to bypass Matmata and Douz, heading straight for Tozeur. We recommend taking the route through Matmata anyway just because the scenery is lovely and, from our experience, the roads were completely empty. With all the stops, prepare for a long driving day (totally do-able though). 

Depending on the time of year, Chott El Jerid may be a dusty desert, but no matter what, the route is worth driving – it’s kind of surreal.

Number of days: if you just go to Tozeur, check out the town and oases, you can get away with 2-3 days. 

Accommodation: Dar Yomma (this one is expensive, but an absolute banger – fully recommend).

⋅ El Kef (Sbeitla, Ayn Darahim, Dougga, Bulla Regia): 1-3 nights ⋅

The last leg of this Tunisia itinerary heads back towards Tunis via as many optional stops as you have time for!

El Kef (or Le Kef) is a practical choice as a base on the return journey, with many attractions nearby. The city has a notable Ottoman Kasbah with sprawling views across the entire town, perfect for sunset. There is also a walkable medina – if you enjoyed Djerbahood , there is even some more street art! 

Route: the drive from Tozeur to El Kef is straightforward, however, it may pass through some regions that are against government advisories, so check your insurance and government website. For example, Sbeitla is just within a zone that, as a UK citizen, invalidates our insurance. If you are uncomfortable with this, it is easy to take a slightly longer route between the two towns to avoid the Kasserine region.

Number of days: at a minimum, we would thoroughly recommend a night in El Kef, returning to Tunis the next day via the ruins of Dougga.

Optional Stops near El Kef

♦ On route to El Kef, a potential stop is Sbeitla/Subaytilah , home to one of the most impressive Roman ruins in Tunisia, Sufetula . It takes several louages passing through Kasserine to reach Sbeitla by public transport, but in a car, the route passes almost straight through and is worth a stop.

♦   From El Kef, the exquisite UNESCO designated Roman ruins of Dougga are less than an hour away. If you only visit one set of ruins on your trip – make it this one! It’s panoramic setting on the edge of a hill with vistas of olive farms, plus the impressive structures, is simply magnificent. 

♦   For a tourist-free experience, visit Ayn Darahim . With rolling countryside reminiscent of England, this town is just under two hours north of El Kef, tucked up in the far north western corner of Tunisia. We were recommended this region by a resident in Tunisia and I’d read that it was a popular summer destination for Tunisians! It’s perfect if you want to hike, check out some waterfalls and really have some tourist-free time at the end of your Tunisia itinerary. We visited during April and it rained, *a lot*. It was really beautiful though and completely different to all the other places we visited. During summer, we would fully recommend Ayn Darahim!

♦   If you head to Ayn Darahim, on route is the exquisite Roman site of Bulla Regia . You may be completely Roman-ruined out by this point but Bulla Regia is worth your time, especially if you’re keen on history.

♦   Jugurtha’s Table is a flat, table-like mountain near the Algerian border. It’s a fantastic hike and well-worth a trip if trekking is your thing (advised by our friend who visited in 2023).

⋅ Back to Tunis ⋅

There are so many cool things to do around Tunis that we’ve missed off this itinerary – like hike up Zaghouan, have a wander around Hammamet, check out the pretty fishing town of Bizerte, or visit even more Roman ruins (Thuburbo Majus, Uthina and Utique for example).

All these day trips are detailed in our weekend in Tunis post, so head on over there if you have spare days after designing your itinerary (this schedule is already pretty packed though!).

FINAL THOUGHTS - TUNISIA ITINERARY

We’re so happy that you are considering (or planning) a trip to Tunisia. It’s an astonishing tourist destination that has, somehow, yet to be discovered by the masses, making it an incredibly enjoyable experience to travel around. 

Our trip involved almost all the recommended stops on this itinerary (we missed Bulla Regia due to absolutely horrendous wet weather and Sbeitla due to some car hire document drama causing us to detour – long, boring story). Every other place here we have personally visited, and pretty much followed this entire itinerary ourselves throughout the course of a month. It’s pretty epic!

We hope you have a really fantastic time on your Tunisian journey – let us know what you think!

Hi, thanks for visiting our blog! If this post has been of help to you, or you’ve just enjoyed our random ramblings and musings, say thank you by buying us a coffee ! It helps keep The Restless Beans blog up and running without ads.

Thank you, Claire + Nick

2 thoughts on “Tunisia Itinerary: a 2-4 Week Detailed Route”

Great post. I will be a regular follower from now on. I’m heading to Tunisia next year, so thanks for all the useful information. One question, if you don’t mind – if using a local sim card, is internet connection good enough for calls (e.g. via WhatsApp)? Many thanks

I’m really glad you found our post helpful.

We had some issues with internet connection whilst in Ayn Darahim (in the far north-west) but had no problems in the rest of the country. It’s definitely fast enough for things like whatsapp calls.

Have a great trip!

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The Tunisian Way

Learn about Tunisian life

19 things to know before traveling to Tunisia

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

What is Tunisia famous for?

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

Best time to visit - when to visit Tunisia?

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

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

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

What type of food is eaten in Tunisia?

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

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

What's the currency in Tunisia?

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

What is the main religion in Tunisia?

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

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

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

Should I visit Tunisia during Ramadan?

What is ramadan.

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

Ramadan in Tunisia - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

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

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

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

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

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

Do Tunisians speak French?

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

Do Tunisian speak English?

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

How to dress in Tunisia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traffic in Tunisia - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

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

Historical landmarks - things to know before traveling to Tunisia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Haggling is an art - souvenir shopping.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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VOICE OF GUIDES

Tunisia travel guide and itinerary (5 days, 7 days, 10 days).

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer  here.

If you are new to Arab countries, Tunisia is a good option to start with. You can get there in only 2 hours with a flight from a couple of European cities. Although Tunisia is often identified with beach holidays, there is much more to see: the world’s biggest mosaic collection, a stunning amphitheater, Berber villages and their underground houses, desert activities, canyons and oases, charming medinas, forts, and mosques. Only to see the highlights, you need to spend one week in Tunisia. It is possible to travel around by public transport except in the southern part, but a road trip in Tunisia is also much less challenging than in other Arab countries, like Lebanon . Here you find a 5-day, one-week, and 10-day road trip itinerary that, with a few days added, you can also use for backpacking in Tunisia.

Visa to Tunisia

Citizens of many countries can visit Tunisia for up to 90 days without a visa, including the countries of the European Union. Check out if your country is among the visa-free countries.

Travel insurance to Tunisia

I always use SafetyWing for my travels, an affordable medical insurance that covers almost every country except Iran, North Korea and Cuba.

Getting to Tunisia

The fastest option to go to Tunisia is to take a flight. 

Tunisia Air has direct flights from several European cities in Spain, Italy, France, Germany, and other Arab countries.

Here you can check flights with Tunis Air .

Air France also has several flights to Tunis from Paris.

It is good to know that the low-cost airline Easyjet has a direct flight from Geneva to Enfidha-Hammamet for as low as 35- 50 Euro for one way. It could be a great option if you arrive from Geneva or combine it with another flight. 

Check the new flight aggregator, Wayaway , which lists low-cost airlines and, with one click, the prices with or without luggage. Plus, you get some cashback each time you book a flight.  To get an extra 10% off the membership fee, use my discount code: VOG. You can make the most of it if you book your trip (flights, hotels, and tours) through Wayaway’s link to booking.com, GetYourGuide etc., in which case the cashback really makes a difference. I tested and wrote a  separate article  about it.

You can also check flights on Skyscanner and Google Flights .

You can arrive to Tunisia via land from Algeria; Oum Teboul is the main border between Tunisia and Algeria. However, I don’t have personal experience with this border crossing.

Ferry  

You can get to Tunisia from France and Italy, which is the cheapest option. The common ferry routes to Tunisia:

– Genoa or Civitavecchia (Italy) to Tunis (Tunisia)

– Marseille (France) to Tunis (Tunisia)

– Palermo (Italy) to Tunis (Tunisia)

From Palermo to Tunis, it takes around 12 hours and costs 40-50 USD. It becomes, of course, much longer and costs much more if you start from Genoa. The ferry from Marseilles also takes around one day and costs approximately 100-130 USD. There is no daily ferry, so you must carefully check the schedule in advance. 

You can book your ferry ticket to Tunisia  here.

What is the best time to visit Tunisia?

It depends on what you want to do. July – August is considered as peak season when prices are the highest and tourists arrive in masses.

However, if you plan a cultural roundtrip, either backpacking in Tunisia or making a road trip, you had better avoid both the summer and winter months. The temperature becomes unbearable in the desert during summer and gets surprisingly cold during winter, and most places don’t have heating. Since only a few tourists come at this time of the year, prices drop significantly.

For the deserted southern area, late September to November and March to early May is the best period. At this time, however, it is a bit cold to go swimming.

I was traveling around Tunisia from north to south at the beginning of May, when the temperature was pleasant, on some days, even hot. Once the temperature rose to 38 degrees in the southern part, so we decided to escape to Djerba island, which was only 100 km away, but it was even a bit too cool to enjoy the beach. I was surprised to see that Djerba has a different microclimate. Fortunately, the temperature dropped in the deserted part the day after, and we could continue our visit. As you see, high temperatures can still occur at the beginning of May, but generally, it is still not too hot.

It can be interesting to attend the Oasis festivals of Douz and Tozeur in December and January despite the colder temperature.

Books to read about Tunisia

Bradt Tunisia: the best and most up-to-date travel guide will be released in June 2023

Lonely Planet Tunisia: it is a good base but a bit outdated

Tunisia culture smart: You can learn about religion, history and life, and all the essentials before traveling to Tunisia

Tunisia, an Arab Anomaly : This excellent book gives you a better understanding of what makes Tunisia different from other Arab countries, its recent history, and its culture.

Interesting facts about Tunisia

–   Tunisia has a Western-style working week with Saturday and Sunday off

–   The Bardo Museum in Tunis has the world’s biggest mosaic collection (temporarily closed, check out if it reopened before your visit)

–   Tunisians speak Tunsi, the local dialect that people of Arab countries outside the Maghreb don’t understand

–    The first Arab country to adopt a constitution in 1861

–    The only Arab country where nonbelievers are not prosecuted for apostasy

–    Tunisia is one of the most progressive countries in the Arab world in terms of women’s rights

–     The first non-European country to sign an association agreement with the European Union in 1995

–     The Arab Spring that spread over the Arab countries started with the protests in Tunisia after the self-immolation of a vegetable seller in Sidi Bouzid

–     “Harissa” is a hot chili pepper paste making most meals spicy

–     The “English Patient” and the “Star Wars Trilogy” were shot in Tunisia.

–      Olive trees are everywhere, making Tunisia one of the world’s biggest olive oil producers in the world

What is the most popular food/street food in Tunisia?

When we talk about Tunisian food, you must know about  harissa.  It is a   red sauce made from dried crushed chili, garlic, and salt. Harissa is the reason why making almost every Tunisian food is spicy.

Regarding Tunisian cuisine, there’s much more than just couscous,  the national dish of the Maghreb,  which can be served with meat or seafood. While it’s a must-try, there are many other Tunisian specialties. Having an expansive coastline,  seafood and different kinds of fish  are easy to find. Tuna fish is also widely used in salads and sandwiches. As mentioned earlier, La Goulette, with a whole street of fish restaurants, is a perfect place to try it.

Merguez:  spicy lamb or goat sausages

Ojja  is a dish of eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, harissa, and onions. There are several ways to make it with sausages (merguez), seafood, chicken, or eggs. 

by Agnes Simigh

I’m a passionate tour guide and travel writer, who is curious to discover places that seldom catch the attention of the media or that are misrepresented. My goal is to inspire you to choose off-the-beaten-track destinations by sharing objective and detailed information. I believe that it is mainly the lack of “intel” that keeps us away from incredible places. And that just shouldn’t be the case.

2 thoughts on “TUNISIA TRAVEL GUIDE AND ITINERARY (5 DAYS, 7 DAYS, 10 DAYS)”

Amazing travelogue

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a perfect angel

The colors of Tunisia

I left for  Tunisia  with great enthusiasm, imagining to visit a place with scenarios already seen and loved in Morocco. Instead, although there are naturally many similarities, each nation has its own “spirit” that characterizes it,  making it unique and, therefore, fascinating  .

It is a pleasure to simply walk, on the main road and in the alleys, until you get to some points with beautiful views of the sea, with the marina at the foot of the slope.  The village is full of craft shops, some for tourists, others for really local products: you can find colorful ceramics, the classic stoles of Tunisia and mirrors that recall the decorated doors.   Then for those who can look for there are some little secrets that sell special perfumes and real crafts.

In the Arab culture, bargaining is compulsory. But you are invited to proceed only if interested in buying because almost always sellers accept the counterproposal to the downside.

Halfway down the main street there is a small open space, down there on the left side, right at the beginning of a side street there is a two-storey shop that sells pottery and fabrics. The sellers are friendly, the goods are well taken care of and it’s fun to even negotiate to bring home a piece of Tunisia.

You can not miss, also, a stop in one of the famous terraces where you can quietly order and drink the famous  mint tea with pine nuts  . And if you walk a pecker while you walk you can stop at one of the cloisters selling the  bambalouni  , big and sugary donuts that seem to be a specialty of Sidi Bou Said. If you do not want to sleep in the center of Tunis or want to combine a little ‘relaxation on the beach to the knowledge of the city you can stay in  La Marsa  . In La Marsa there are luxury hotels, basic hotels and apartments to rent all overlooking the sea.  The crystalline water and the golden sand welcome tourists and Tunisians  . In the morning just at dawn, which explodes in its orange colors, you can see young fishermen getting ready to take a ride with their boats, collect the catch from the net and return a few hours later.

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10 Cultural Aspects You Need to Know Before Traveling to Tunisia 9 min read

Are you planning a trip to Tunisia ? When you are traveling to Tunisia, no one expects you to be perfectly polite in the Tunisian way. However, it is important to know a few things and the basics of the Tunisian local culture before your trip in order to better understand Tunisian people and how they behave.

Suggested Read: 20 Mistakes Foreigners Make when they Arrive in Tunisia

Islam is the Main Religion

More than 98% of Tunisians identify as Muslim. Though the majority do not, still many Tunisian women wear head coverings.

The major Islamic holidays are also national holidays in Tunisia. The pace of life changes drastically during the holly month of Ramadan. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from food and water from sunrise to sunset, and the day centers around the breaking of fast at sunset. Many shops open late and close early to accommodate.

Similar Read: 9 Things to Know about Ramadan in Tunisia

As a tourist in Tunisia, you should be aware that there are some cultural practices that are normal in Europe and America but are not normal in Muslim countries. For instance, about food, while pork and alcohol are available, they are usually not consumed in public.

Suggested Read:

• The Great Mosque of Kairouan — Islam’s Fourth Most Holiest Site
• The Great Mosque of Ez-Zitouna — Tunis’ Oldest & Most Significant Mosque

Most Tunisians are open to talking about religion, but, as a foreigner in their country, you have a responsibility to keep things civil. Insults toward the prophet Mohammed especially would not be well received.

Tunisians are Tolerant

In religious matters, Tunisians have a “live and let live” attitude. They are amicable and peaceful to the point of erasing the distinctions between religions.

Most Tunisians really do not see any meaningful difference between Islam and Christianity or Judaism when it comes to dealing with persons.

Tunisians are Open and Hospitable

Tunisians–regardless of their religion–tend to be extremely warm and hospitable people.

Walk into a Tunisian wedding, and you will most likely be greeted with kisses, handshakes, and sweets.

Tell a Tunisian you want to experience a Ramadan Iftar dinner but don’t have anywhere to go, and you will be invited before finishing your sentence.

Suggested Read: 10 Things to Know If Invited for a Tunisian Iftar

If a worker comes around to your house to fix something and you fail to offer him coffee or tea, he will be offended, Hospitality is an important part of Tunisian culture!

Still, Tunisians can be Conservative

Forget about what you might see in Tunis, Hammamet or Sousse, traditional Tunisian people, especially those living in the South of the country are actually conservative in many ways.

Tunisians don’t show too much affection in public. Kissing in public is considered completely inappropriate, even in a big city like Tunis. Nowadays, it is more open for a couple to show the expression, but still not common.

Suggested Read: Tunisian Sefseri: Symbol of Modesty & Elegance

Israel/Palestine is a Sensitive Topic

What is happening between Israel and Palestine is a hot topic no matter where you are in the world, but especially in the Arab world. If you are a first-time visitor to an Arab country, here is a rule of thumb: DO NOT TALK ABOUT ISRAEL. This is for sure applies when visiting Tunisia.

Tunisians tend to have a sense of solidarity with the Palestinian people because they are fellow Arabs and Muslims. When you are in Tunisia, there is almost certainly nothing good that will come from you bringing up the topic of Israel-Palestine or sharing your opinion.

It’s Westernized – to an Extent

Tunisia, and especially Tunis and the whole Northern East region, contains strong elements of Western culture and French is widely spoken. However, it still has its own fundamentally Arab-Muslim culture, which is especially strong when you venture out of the main cities and into the peripheries.

Many aspects of Western etiquette don’t exist though, such as waiting in line in an orderly fashion or waiting for people to get off trains before barging on.

Another cultural idiosyncrasy is the staring. Tunisians, from grandmothers to teenage boys, stare – a lot – and even if you catch them and exchange eye contact, chances are they will continue. Try not to feel self-conscious.

Tunisia, Arab’s Most Secular Country

Tunisia is a mix of secularism and religion. The Tunisian society is a fascinating mix of religion and secularism. Islam holds an institutionalized influence over various aspects of Tunisian life.

However, despite its significant tussle with religious elements, secularism and liberalism dominate in Tunisia.

Tunisians are Very Affectionate People

Tunisians, are highly affectionate and expressive, much more so than people tend to be in the Western countries. Women greet each other with Hoby, Habibe (my love), while hugs, kisses, and endless endearments such as Hyety (my life) and Rouhy (my soul), are generously handed out.

Interesting Read: Tunisian Shall Stop Doing These 5 Things

Tunisia is Incredibly Heterogeneous

Tunisia is a concoction of influences and is incredibly heterogeneous country for being relatively small, both in climate, culture and habits, but most people have the stereotypes of Mediterranean weather and sunshine.

Similar Read: The Tunisian Chimera

If it’s a trip around the country, expect to find five different climates, cuisine, cultures and several languages and dialects in less than a 3-hour drive. Regions are extremely different from one another. You may go to Bizerte and then to Djerba and end up feeling like you’ve been in two well different countries.

Tunisian Nationalism is Strong

For the most part, Tunisians are usually quite proud of both their region and their country. They love their country and like many aspects of their identity.

Tunisians love their humor and language, and they appreciate the fact how the country is the product of lots of different influences (Arab, but Amazigh, French, Spanish, Italians… ).

Suggested Reads:

• 5 Things Tunisians Will Never Say Sorry For
• Ten Things I learned from Living Alone in Tunis
• Life in Tunisia: What It’s Really Like — The Pros and Cons
• 10 Things I Wish I Know how to Explain to Tunisians
• 5 Struggles Tunisians with Big Families will Relate to
• 5 Things are Normal for Tunisians but Weird for Foreign People
• 10 Very Tunisian Proverbs to Live By

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Editorial Staff

Editorial staff account at Carthage Magazine, Tunisia's premier English lifestyle magazine with thousands of page-views per month and over 200,000 social media followers.

Israel Actions Are War Crimes, Constitute Genocide – International Law Experts & Historians

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Find a hidden wildflower paradise at Camassia Natural Area in West Linn

• Updated: Apr. 19, 2024, 7:19 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 19, 2024, 7:00 a.m.

Camas lilies and other wildflowers bloom at Camassia Nature Preserve in West Linn, a 26-acre natural area managed by international environmental nonprofit The Nature Conservancy. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

• Jamie Hale | The Oregonian/OregonLive

It doesn’t look like much at first – a small, gravel parking area at the end of a neighborhood street in West Linn, a couple of signs in the trees – but soon the splendor of Camassia comes alive.

Officially known as the Camassia Natural Area , a 26-acre nature preserve is home to more than 300 plant species, including wildflowers that bloom in April and May and turn the grassy plateau into a colorful display.

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Best Smart Luggage of 2024 to Make Travel Easier: Shop Smart Suitcases Ahead of Summer Travel Plans

Set out in style with smart luggage from top brands that anticipates and accommodates to your needs while on the go.

If you're planning on seeing the world this summer, make sure you're ready with the right luggage for you. For some, that means carry-on luggage that can actually hold all your belongings. For others, it's the best smart luggage available. The best high-tech bags and spinners can do plenty of the heavy lifting that comes with travel for you, and with style. 

Smart luggage can include bags with charging ports to keep your electronics (especially your smartphone ) juiced up, automatic navigation to help your spinners follow you, and even built-in scooters to make getting to your next gate a breeze. 

While some of these features can make prepping for a trip pricey, you might find that the extra bit of cash adds to the convenience factor when traveling. When you don't have to search for a plug around the airport to charge your phone or you have your luggage follow you around instead of pulling it with you, you'll remember what a good investment you made. 

With that in mind, we've gathered up some of our favorite picks with a variety of smart components, from USB ports to ride-on framework and automatic, motorized luggage that goes where you go on its own. You'll also see familiar brands like Samsonite and Wrangler among some of our picks. Below, find options for the best smart luggage this year to make travel a cinch this summer. 

Best Smart Luggage of 2024

Wrangler smart luggage set.

This affordable luggage set keeps things simple with a USB port to charge up your mobile devices and a 3-in-1 cup holder to complement its hardshell exterior and double spinner wheels. It also comes in a wide variety of colors. 

Ovis Auto-Follow Suitcase

This suitcase can be filled to the brim and will follow you around the airport so you don't even have to carry it. Just charge up the battery, connect via app, and you're good to go. It sports a lightweight shell made of polycarbonate with a glossy finish in multiple colors as well. 

Olotu Cycling Suitcase

Why carry or roll your luggage around when you can ride on it instead? This load-bearing hardshell luggage has space for you to stand on it and ride it as a scooter. It supports up to 242 lbs and still has plenty of storage area for your belongings. It's pricey, but imagine being able to zip through the airport with your own transport — you can do it with this suitcase. 

Feilario Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This affordable spinner wheel luggage comes with all the niceties you need for heading through the airport or wherever it is you're traveling from. It includes a USB port, Type-C port, a phone holder, water cup holder, and a handle hook all for your convenience. 

Iubest Luggage Carry-On Scooter Suitcase

If you're traveling with kids, help keep them out of the way and moving along with this ride on suitcase. It features a detachable scooter that the kids can jump right on and follow you along through every terminal, all without dropping their luggage somewhere. 

Faginx Electric Rideable Suitcase

This electric suitcase doesn't only follow you around, but you can ride it as well. It's a sturdy, aluminum alloy suitcase made with aviation-grade aluminum alloy. Its 250W brushless motor gets you where you're going in a snap, and if you're sitting still, you can use its lithium battery to charge up your phone and other devices. 

Luggex Carry-On Luggage with USB Port

This fashionable luggage set comes with both USB-A and USB-C charging ports so you can add your own power bank and fill up on power while out and about. It also offers a separate cosmetic case that you can carry all those important goodies in that you can't lose on the way to your destination.

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner

This bag is small enough to fit under your seat once you board the plane, so you can keep a close eye on it. It also has a USB port so you can charge everything up on the go. With its multiple pockets and other compartment features, it's perfect for just about any use case. 

$145   $108

Space Suitcases Smart Rideable Suitcase

This fun, space age-esque suitcase is half motorized scooter, half luggage. It has a built-in electric motor that means you can sit down and ride through the airport, train station, or wherever you're going. Just pack your belonging  and get gong. It has 26 liters of storage and a TSA-approved lock built-in. Plus, its 250W motor can get you where you want to go quickly, even with a full compartment. 

Nomatic Travel Pack

If you don't have enough items to necessitate a larger hardshell bag or even a larger carry-on, consider this waterproof, expandable backpack that has plenty of room for laptops, clothes, and other essentials. It has an RFID lockable security pocket, a USB port, plenty of pockets, and 30 liters of space for everything you need to bring with you. 

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Beyoncé is bringing her fans of color to country music. Will they be welcomed in?

Recording artist and “Color Me Country” radio host Rissi Palmer, as well as Black Opry co-director Tanner Davenport, says the pop culture moment Beyoncé has created with her latest album, “Cowboy Carter,” might not move the needle in Nashville when it comes to diversity. (April 14)

FILE - Beyoncé performs at the Wolstein Center, Nov. 4, 2016, in Cleveland, Ohio. With the release of “Act II: Cowboy Carter,’' Beyoncé has reignited discussions about the genre’s origins and its diversity. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File)

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FILE - Reyna Roberts arrives at the CMT Music Awards, April 11, 2022, at the Municipal Auditorium in Nashville, Tenn. With the release of “Act II: Cowboy Carter,’' Beyoncé has reignited discussions about the genre’s origins and its diversity. (AP Photo/John Amis, File)

FILE - Rissi Palmer arrives at the CMT Music Awards, April 11, 2022, at the Municipal Auditorium in Nashville, Tenn. With the release of “Act II: Cowboy Carter,’' Beyoncé has reignited discussions about the genre’s origins and its diversity. (AP Photo/John Amis, File)

FILE - Lainey Wilson poses in the press room with the award for best country album for “Bell Bottom Country” during the 66th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, in Los Angeles. With the release of “Act II: Cowboy Carter,’' Beyoncé has reignited discussions about the genre’s origins and its diversity. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Wynonna Judd performs at the Paramount Arts Center in Ashland, Ky., Friday, Jan. 16, 2015. With the release of “Act II: Cowboy Carter,’' Beyoncé has reignited discussions about the genre’s origins and its diversity. (Kevin Goldy/The Daily Independent via AP)

NEW YORK (AP) — Dusty, worn boots. Horses lapping up water. Sweat dripping from the foreheads of every shade of Black skin as country classics blare through giant speakers. These moments are frequently recreated during Tayhlor Coleman’s family gathering s at their central Texas ranch. For her, Beyoncé's country album, “Act II: Cowboy Carter,” was the granting of an unlikely wish.

“There is something to be said about the biggest artist in the world coming home to the genre that... we all kind of love but never really felt welcome into — it’s really hard to put that to words,” said the 35-year-old native of Houston’s Third Ward, the same area Beyoncé lived in as a child. Loving artists like Miranda Lambert and Shania Twain, Coleman hoped this moment would come. “I was praying then that one day she would make a country album…Beyoncé is more country than a lot of people making country music today.”

Beyoncé's latest project is not only No. 1 on the Billboard 200 for the second consecutive week, but she became the first Black woman to top Billboard’s country album chart.

“There’s nothing that that girl can’t do….that’s inspiring to me,” said country superstar Lainey Wilson , who took home the country album Grammy in February. “I’m excited to see the fans that didn’t know they liked country music find out that maybe they like it a little bit.”

Beyoncé's steamrolling into country music – and her motivation behind it — has reignited discussions about the genre’s origins and its diversity. But with increased interest from Beyoncé’s fans at a fever pitch, is Nashville prepared and willing to welcome them in? And will these new listeners of color and others curious about the hoopla stay or will their interest in the genre wane?

“I will be honest with you: I think that it’s a Beyoncé thing. I don’t know that it’s a country music happening because that would mean the industry would have to do something…I think it’s one of those cultural moments for Black people, specifically Black women,” said country artist Rissi Palmer, host of the Apple Music radio show Color Me Country which has created a centralized community where fans of color can enjoy the genre.

“It’s really funny to me to see a lot of country radio programmers trying to take credit for what just happened with Beyoncé. That wasn’t country radio…that was her power, her money and…the acknowledgment of her brand. The fandom did that,” Palmer said.

Tanner Davenport, co-director of Black Opry — and proud BeyHive member — worries the massive achievements of “Cowboy Carter” could have unintended consequences, such as country music executives not feeling an urgency to platform existing and future Black artists. Black Opry was founded by Holly G in April 2021, as she examined her relationship with the genre during the social justice movement sparked by the murder of George Floyd. The organization aims to amplify Black voices in country, Americana, blues and folk music.

“Once ‘Act II’ has ran its course and gone away, there are going to be programmers... looking back at this moment and saying, ’We’ve already done this. We’ve given a Black woman a No. 1,” said Davenport. “If they can really start to dial into the audience a bit more, I think they can start to see progress within this and capitalize on this moment because I think there’s a huge undermining of the Black dollar and how far it can go.”

NOT AN ANOMALY

Reyna Roberts’ parents filled their house with music. Roberts, a rising country artist featured on “Cowboy Carter” with vocal credits on “Blackbiird” and “Tyrant,” said some questioned her musical aspirations.

“People are always so surprised. But I’m like my parents played country, they played trap, they played rock, they played classical, they played blues...Anything that I’m creating is all truly authentic,” said Roberts, who hit a career breakthrough in 2020 after shout-outs from superstar Carrie Underwood and Mickey Guyton, who in 2021 became the first Black woman to co-host the Academy of Country Music Awards. ( Charley Pride, who died in 2020 , was the first Black co-host of the CMA Awards in 1975.)

Roberts is part of a new generation of artists, like Shaboozey, Tanner Adell and Willie Jones, who are fusing country with other genres like hip-hop.

While Wilson, one of the biggest artists in the genre, hopes some Queen Bey fans will explore country, a significant percentage of Black listeners already exists. A 2021 Country Music Association self-commissioned study, “Country Music’s Multicultural Opportunity,” examining potential audience expansion opportunities, revealed that 26% of Black respondents said they listen weekly.

“I don’t think they have gotten to the point where they feel as safe to be at country shows… the broad listenership in country music is going to be reflected in the streaming world,” said Davenport. He says the Black Opry is strategizing ways to capitalize on Beyoncé's momentum so curious fans can find spaces “where they can exist and not feel threatened.”

FEELING UNWELCOME

Safety and feeling comfortable in a country music environment is often on the minds of Black country musicgoers . Davenport was in the audience during Beyoncé’s 2016 CMA performance with The Chicks which sparked a much-documented racist online backlash, and is widely believed to be the genesis for “Cowboy Carter” with the superstar expressing in an Instagram post, “I did not feel welcomed.”

From AP’s archives: Beyoncé spoke with The Associated Press in a 2003 interview about her faith. The superstar made history this week by becoming the first Black woman to top the Billboard country albums chart.

During the performance, Davenport says a woman near him yelled, “’They need to get that Black b---- off stage,” adding, “I started to realize, OK, this is truly a space in which I don’t feel comfortable in, and I don’t feel safe in.”

That same CMA multicultural study found that 20% of concert attendees of color experienced racial profiling or harassment. The polling also included non-country music listeners, and up to 31% of that segment noted that they don’t listen because they “wouldn’t be safe/comfortable at live events.”

Monica Wisdom understands.

In the early ‘90s, the St. Louis native attended a concert by one of her favorite artists, Reba McEntire. Wisdom, 55, says McEntire’s performance was on fire, but the atmosphere and crowd were ice cold.

“They were very unwelcoming...You saw the eye rolls and you heard the comments and the whispers, like, ’What are you doing here?’” recalled Wisdom, the founder of Black Women Amplified, a women’s empowerment group. “I said if this is what country music is, I don’t want any parts of it. So, I stopped listening to it.”

And Wisdom hasn’t attended a country music concert since.

While popular artists like Wilson, the legendary Dolly Parton, Maren Morris , Jason Isbell and more have publicly voiced the need for inclusion, their allyship can sometimes be overshadowed. In 2021, Morgan Wallen, then already a huge star, was caught on camera using the N-word as his “Dangerous: The Double Album” record sat at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 for three consecutive weeks. Although there were repercussions, many fans rallied around him boosting his popularity. Jason Aldean’s “Try That in a Small Town” also experienced a surge last year as the music video swirled in controversy.

“That’s the problem that the industry has in trying to retain and foster a real Black country audience,” said Palmer, whose first meetings with major labels in the early 2000s were sight-unseen due to her team’s concerns that her race might present an obstacle. In 2007, Palmer became the first Black woman in 20 years to reach Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with “Country Girl.” She remembers performing at shows with Confederate flags in the crowd but singing anyway as a form of resistance. Concerns from music labels included her hairstyle and even the ethnicity of her love interests in music videos.

Palmer says the perception of racism is a “hard connotation to overcome, and you have to do a lot of work. You have to do a lot of answering for that and possibly asking for forgiveness...I don’t know that the industry is prepared to do that.”

“I do think that there is this sense that country music is white music,” said Coleman, who didn’t always express her love for country music as a teen. “It was not cool to be country...for the longest time, especially growing up, I was trying to fit in with everybody else. ” It’s a sentiment many Black fans have echoed, including Palmer.

The genre might not seem relatable to fans of color because they don’t see themselves. In the CMA multicultural study, respondents noted feeling that country music isn’t interested in attracting them and not seeing enough Black, Latino or Asian artists.

“It’s hard to be in a space if you don’t see a representation of yourself,” said the 26-year-old Roberts, whose song “Louisiana” was inspired by Beyoncé’s “Daddy Lessons.” “My mindset was even though I don’t see representation, I will make sure that there’s representation.”

In a frequently cited 2021 study published by Jada Watson , a University of Ottawa musicologist, data revealed artists of color received just 1.5% of country radio airplay between 2002-2020. During that period, with nearly 15,000 songs played within the format, only three of the 13 Black artists were women. No songs by Black women reached the top 20 on country radio charts.

“There’s so much unloving in the world of Black people, especially Black women, that you have to find the spots where you’re loved,” said Wisdom, who grew up loving Parton and Kenny Rogers and watching McEntire’s “Reba” TV sitcom. “I didn’t find that in country music.”

THE BEYONCÉ BOOST

Fans and experts seem to agree that Beyoncé has created an education on Black country trailblazers like Linda Martell and Rhiannon Giddens , and is providing an immeasurable amount of attention toward existing artists.

“It’s really great for them…The rising tide lifts all boats,” said iconic singer Wynonna Judd, who mentors several established and rising Black female singers. “What I think of professionally is how this has to be a blessing to so many women in the business that are… wanting to be heard.”

Before “Cowboy Carter” officially announced featured musicians, searches, streams and social media impressions rose exponentially for many current Black country artists such as Roberts, Guyton, Adell, Tiera Kennedy, Brittney Spencer, Shaboozey and others due to media stories and curiosity. Since the album has dropped, the numbers have risen even more .

“The fact that Beyoncé has been able to create this conversation for more people to be included in this space and talked about, it’s been really cool,” said Shaboozey , who’s featured on “Spaghettii” and “Sweet Honey Buckin.’” “To see her just kind of coming in here has been honestly beneficial to me and plenty of other artists.”

But Davenport, who noted the Black Opry will honor pioneering songwriter Alice Randall for the organization’s anniversary this month, says while country is more diverse, progress has been too incremental, and Nashville hasn’t made good on promises made following the social justice uprising.

“I don’t think things are going to change overnight... at this point now, it feels like a repeat of what happened in 2021 after George Floyd was murdered,” said Davenport, referring to the current backlash against diversity and inclusion efforts. “There’s been no progress. I mean, you can see it on the charts. You can see it on the (festival) lineups.” While fans say country music has a lot to fix, they realize they have to do their part.

“Fans, though, have to take a responsibility and support the artists,” said Wisdom, whose love for country music was rekindled after watching the Peabody-award winning series “High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America,” which featured a Black cowboys episode. “We have to go to these shows, we have to buy their music.”

DISAPPEARING ACT / RECLAMATION

The scope of Beyoncé’s country music impact might not be realized for years, but there’s an optimism that the curiosity about Black country artists will continue.

“I hope that when Beyoncé moves on to ‘Act III’ that some of the people are going to stay... There are women that we stand on the shoulders of, and I want to make sure that we acknowledge all of them,” said Palmer, whose Color Me Country Artist Grant fund provides micro grants to artists of color pursuing careers in country, Americana and roots music. “I’m glad everyone is excited about Beyoncé. I’m glad that she’s having the milestones that she’s having — all of that. Also, just remember there were people that were here before.”

Despite Beyoncé never explicitly saying so, many fans believe “Cowboy Carter” — as well as her previous album, the dance-themed “Renaissance” — are meant to reclaim genres whose foundations are rooted in Black culture. But with the passage of time, along with systemic inequalities, is reclamation even possible?

“Hope springs eternal, right? I mean, that’s what my entire career at this point is focused on, making sure that the whole story is told,” said Palmer. “This is a big moment of visibility for Black artists in country music that have been here — the past, the present and the future. But I think Nashville has got a lot of self-introspection and a lot of self-examination to do.” ___ Associated Press journalist Leslie Ambriz in Los Angeles contributed reporting.

Follow Associated Press journalist Gary Gerard Hamilton at @GaryGHamilton on all his social media platforms.