A Beginner’s Guide to Tunisia

Tunisia has always attracted sun worshippers, but this North African gem, just a stone's throw from Sicily, offers much more than its stunning golden beaches.

Though small, Tunisia boasts numerous UNESCO-recognized treasures—eight cultural sites and a national park. Additionally, its historical monuments and towns showcase an intriguing blend of Berber, Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and French influences.

The country's diverse landscapes are remarkable; from the lush hills and fertile plains in the north to the endless olive groves in the central region, culminating in the arid, mystical deserts of the south.

Recent initiatives in sustainable and cultural tourism are drawing visitors away from the typical beach resorts, inviting them to explore spice markets, olive groves, wineries, and artisan workshops to savor Tunisia's culinary delights and discover its traditional crafts.

Tunisia is budget-friendly, offering plenty of options for travelers looking for a touch of luxury.

When is the best time to visit Tunisia?

Summer marks the peak tourist season, when beach resorts are bustling with sun-seekers. This period is also the hottest, with average temperatures soaring into the mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F). Spring and autumn offer milder weather, making them ideal for sightseeing. Even winter remains relatively warm in the south, though nights can be chilly.

Summer attracts music enthusiasts to the international festivals in Carthage, Hammamet, Sousse, and Dougga, featuring open-air concerts in enchanting locations.

During Ramadan, restaurants and cafes close during the day but reopen after sunset for the evening meals, often staying open until the early hours. Although daily life slows down, visiting during this time offers a unique opportunity to experience the lively night atmosphere.

How long should I stay in Tunisia?

A weekend of two to three days can provide a quick glimpse of Tunis, along with the stylish coastal city of La Marsa and the charming Sidi Bou Saïd, both located near the capital.

However, at least a week is ideal for wandering through the souqs and markets of Tunis’ historic 7th-century medina, visiting the expansive ruins at Carthage, and enjoying a beach day in Hammamet, topped off with a seafood lunch at a seaside bistro. This timeframe also allows for shopping for traditional ceramics in Nabeul or a side trip to explore the ancient Roman ruins at Dougga.

With a timeframe of 10 days to two weeks, you can journey to Sousse to explore its historic 9th-century medina, admire the impressive mosque in Kairouan, and visit the stunning Roman amphitheater in El Jem. Continue south for some relaxation on the sandy shores of Djerba Island before concluding your Tunisian escapade in the arid landscapes of the south.

Is it convenient to travel to and around Tunisia?

Tunis-Carthage is the primary airport in Tunisia, offering direct flights to numerous cities across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Seasonal flights also bring vacationers to the airports in Monastir Habib Bourguiba, Enfidha-Hammamet, and Djerba-Zarzis. Consider arriving at one airport and departing from another to save on travel time.

Ferries operate year-round from Marseille (22 hours) and Palermo (11 hours) to Tunis, with summer routes also connecting Tunis to Civitavecchia (Rome) and Genoa, as well as linking Zarzis in the south with Marseille and Tripoli, Libya.

As a small nation, Tunisia boasts a well-developed road network, making car travel the most efficient option. You can rent a vehicle from agencies at the airport or through local travel agents.

Trains extend as far south as Gabes and Tozeur in the west, but rail travel is generally slower and less reliable compared to public buses, which are affordable and air-conditioned.

The louage system in Tunisia offers a convenient and economical way to travel. These white minibuses, acting as shared taxis, depart once all eight seats are filled and paid for. Each city has its own dedicated louage station.

Metered taxis operate solely within their licensed urban areas and are typically very affordable, costing less than 1DT per kilometer. You can also use the Bolt or Oto apps to book a cab, though fares may be slightly higher.

Must-see attractions in Tunisia

Spanning 3 kilometers, the UNESCO-recognized archaeological site of Carthage is filled with ancient ruins from Phoenician, Punic, and Roman eras, alongside remnants from the Paleochristian and Arab periods. Notable highlights include the semi-circular Roman amphitheater, the impressive arched walls of the Antonine Baths, and the restored Villa of the Aviary.

A short trip from Tunis leads you to the charming Sidi Bou Said, perched on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Tunis. Its cobblestone streets are adorned with whitewashed houses accented by vibrant blue doors and windows. Take a break at Café des Nattes for a refreshing glass of mint tea or enjoy panoramic sea views from the terrace of Café des Délices.

Wander through the medinas of Tunis and Sousse, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, to experience authentic Arabo-Muslim architecture. Within these enclosed mini-cities, you’ll discover a maze of winding streets leading to squares and courtyards, grand mansions, ancient mosques, and vibrant bazaars and souqs.

Venture into the desert expanses of Tunisia's southern region to visit Star Wars film locations, followed by a camel ride through the sandy dunes. Here, you can immerse yourself in Berber culture, spend a night in troglodyte cave homes, or camp beneath the stars.

Discover Tunisia through its flavors by participating in a market tour or cooking class with Sawa Taste of Tunisia. Explore spice markets, learn the art of flower distillation, and taste Tunisia's renowned harissa, olive oil, and local treats like mlawi, a flaky flatbread, or brik, a deep-fried pastry filled with egg and tuna.

My top activity in Tunisia

Rather than opting for a standard hotel, I prefer staying in traditional Tunisian dars, which have been transformed into charming bed and breakfast accommodations. These expansive homes feature open-air courtyards at their centers and are often nestled in the narrow streets of historic medinas. Their thick walls offer a peaceful retreat from city life, adorned with beautiful examples of local craftsmanship, such as hand-painted ceramic tiles, intricately carved columns, and original metalwork.

Dar Ben Gacem features two locations (rue du Pacha and Rue El Kahia) right in the center of Tunis’ medina. Both residences have been beautifully restored while maintaining their traditional charm. The houses are adorned with a collection of vibrant artworks and ceramics, but what keeps bringing me back are the upper floor libraries filled with inviting nooks and a thoughtfully curated selection of art and history books.

What is the budget I need for Tunisia?

Accommodation will take up a large portion of your travel budget in Tunisia, but you can keep travel costs within the country low. Food and drink prices can range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on where you are.

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

Will I need a visa for Tunisia?

Most visitors can stay in Tunisia without a visa for up to 90 days.

What languages are spoken in Tunisia?

While Standard Arabic is the official language, Tunisia has its unique dialect. Due to its history as a French protectorate, French is widely spoken, and many young people are increasingly fluent in English.