tunis city trip

Things to do in Tunis in 3 days – Complete guide

By Joan Torres 19 Comments Last updated on April 29, 2024

Once a mass tourism destination that received thousands and thousands of tourists per year, including being a popular stopover for a shit load of Mediterranean cruise ships, after the 2015 terrorist attacks in Sousse , the city (and country) saw a massive decline still visible today.

Many shops were shut down, some tourist attractions were closed and the streets of one of the most charming cities in North Africa were suddenly empty. 

After all these years, however, the country seems to be slowly recovering, as the entangled alleys of the Medina seem to finally have come back to life and, in the Roman sites of Carthage, tour groups abound.

Locals are happy to see tourists coming back and that’s why I think now is the best time to travel to Tunis. 

This guide contains things to do in Tunis in a 3 day-itinerary (including off the beaten track things),  as well as everything you need to know regarding transportation tips, best tours and more.

For a full country guide, including a 2-week itinerary and travel tips, read my Tunisia travel guide

In this Tunis travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Best time to visit
• Where to stay
• How to get there
• How to move around
• Day 1: The medina
• Day 2: Bardo, Ville Nouvelle & around
• Day 3: La Goulette, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said and La Marsa
• More Information

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Intro: Why visit Tunis

A third Mediterranean, a third European and a third North African, Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, is the Maghrebi city with perhaps, the largest cultural contrasts.

From the wine-lovers, secular people of Carthage to the traditional families from the Medina and their Italian-like local restaurants, the capital of Tunisia has always been kind of in the middle of the way, so that’s why today, it is a real mix of all its surrounding cultures, to the extent that you will have a hard time trying to define it.

I spent 5 days visiting Tunis and I just loved it.

I liked it because, on the one hand, you have a great Arab Medina, not very different from the ones in Morocco, but way more welcoming, as you don’t bump into the classical hustlers that you typically find in the touristic lanes of Morocco.

I liked it because as soon as you step out of the Medina, you are suddenly in a quarter with European-like facades, boulangeries, churches and gelato stalls, and the air is quite often filled with freshly made Italian pizza.

I liked it because the city is also home to great Roman ruins that overlook the fertile, green lands that surround Tunis and the Gulf.

But above all, I liked it because I was very surprised by the complexity of the Tunisian society living in Tunis: on the one hand, traditionally Maghrebi but, on the other, here you find one of the largest Westernized, secular societies I have ever seen in the Arab world, even comparable to Beirut .

Add to this, all the things to do in Tunis like visiting impressive sites, mosques, museums and savoring their cuisine, which is a real North African-Italian blend, and you have a first-class tourist destination which you don’t want to miss.

Is Tunis worth the weekend trip? Good question. Whenever you go to such exotic destinations, travelers like to spend several days, but they’ll never think of traveling to Tunisia to just visit its capital. If you live in North America or somewhere in Asia, I agree, but seriously, if you are in Europe, you can easily reach Tunis in 2 or 3 hours, and I think it would be a great alternative to the classic European capitals people tend to visit on long weekends. And by the way, you can get a free visa on arrival .

⛅ Best time to visit Tunis (the city)

Tunis is a Mediterranean city.

I visited it in April from Barcelona, and not surprisingly, the weather between both cities was the exact same, perhaps 1 or 2 additional ºC. 

This means that, like most south European cities, Tunis is a year-round-destination with 4 different seasons:

Read: A guide to visiting Muscat in Oman

🏨 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. Very simple, but cheap, and where you are likely to meet the few backpackers visiting 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 and day tours from Tunis

I visited Tunis independently, but if you want to visit the mazes of the Medina with a local guide, or just want to do day trips to nearby places with an organized tour, there are many options.

I recommend you look for these tours via GetYourGuide , a website that offers a large variety of budget tours which can be booked in just 1 click.

Carthage and Sidi Bou Said – A guided tour through the Roman ruins of Carthage and the Santorini-like city of Sidi Boud Said.

Bardo Museum & Medina – The classic Medina and the museum containing one of the largest collection in the world of Roman mosaics.

Day trip to Kairouan & El Jem – The holiest city and, perhaps, the biggest standing Roman Amphitheatre in the world, after the Colosseum in Rome.

🛫 How to travel to Tunis

How to visit tunis by air.

I am pretty sure that, before the 2015 attacks , the International Airport of Tunis had frequent flights from all over Europe but today, at least from Barcelona, there were just 2 or 3 direct flights a week, operated by Tunis Air – during the month of April at least.

On the bright side, it is less than a 3-hour flight from pretty much anywhere in Western Europe and in the worst-case scenario, you will just need to do a quick layover in Paris.

How to visit Tunis by land

Tunisia only shares a border with Libya and Algeria:

• Libya: The border is actually open to anyone with a valid visa for Libya but you are unlikely to cross from there because from a logistical perspective, it’s difficult to organize – independent travel in Libya is not allowed – hence most travelers opt for flying in. Read our Libya travel guide .
• Algeria: Algeria is becoming popular these days and the border is open. Actually, my initial plan was traveling to Algeria and then overland to Tunisia but, since my passport was full of ambiguous stamps such as Iraq or Syria , they denied my visa, so I flew to Tunis instead.

Read: a guide to visit Tbilisi

🛺 How to move around Tunis

Going and coming from the airport.

The airport of Tunis is very close to the city center and taxi would be your best bet, especially because it is very cheap, but you should be aware that Tunis airport is well-known for its taxi mafia.

They will try to charge you around 15-30 dinars, making whatever excuse about airport tax, parking,  baggage fees, etc., but it is all bullshit, and illegal.

The local price for going to downtown is 4 dinars, and it can’t go higher because all taxis should switch on their taximeter. 

Paying 4 dinars with the taxi mafia is nearly impossible so, instead, just go out of the airport (to the left), cross the street and catch the first taxi you see.

Note: There is a bus just outside of the airport but the taxi is so cheap that I doubt all the hassle is worth it.

Read: Is Tunisia safe to visit?

Moving around the city

Taxi – They are so cheap, really and they all have taximeters, so they will never rip you off. Short rides cost around 1-3 dinars, which is barely 1€.

Tram – The center of Tunis is well-connected by a European-like tram and a single ticket costs a few cents. An easy, and nice way to move around. 

Moving from downtown to Carthage and Sidi Bou Said

Train – Carthage and Sidi Bou Said belong to Tunis but they are located more than 15km away. They are, however, connected by a train that runs all day long until midnight. Check What to do on day 3 section.

Things to do in Tunis in 3 days

For just visiting the highlights, you must spend at least 3 days visiting Tunis, and this is the itinerary I recommend:

Map of the places to visit in Tunis – Itinerary

Places to visit in Tunis on day 1 – The Medina

A UNESCO World Heritage site founded in the 7th century by the Arabs, the Medina of Tunis is not surprisingly for North Africa, a maze of alleys, tunnels and traditional life.

The Medina had been the heart of Tunis for over 1,000 years but in the 19th century, when the French built the European-like Ville Nouvelle, the main soul of Tunis shifted to downtown along with many families who moved out of the Medina. 

If you spend a fair amount of time exploring all the alleys, you will see that some parts are uncared for, and dirty, but the reason is that those houses belonged to families that decided to move to the new, trendy part of the city.

Still, there are quite a few sites to explore, and besides all the cafés, souks and mosques, these are the places I recommend you to check out.

Book a day tour around the Medina CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Things to do in the Medina of Tunis – Highlights

Visit Zaytouna Mosque – Dating back to the 8th century, the mosque was named ”olive tree” because it is said that the founder Hassan Ibn Nooman had lessons under an olive tree planted somewhere in the mosque.

The mosque looks simple, but it is gorgeous and my favorite part was that the courtyard columns are original Roman Corinthian columns recycled from Roman Carthage.

Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the prayer room, only the courtyard.

Check out Blacksmith’s souq – From an overwhelmingly number of souvenir souks selling all sort of crap to fabrics and everything in between, the only souq I actually liked (for being less touristic) was the blacksmith’s souq, located south of Zaytouna Mosque, at the lane located on its right side (coming from Place de la Victoire).

Basically, you will find plenty of blacksmiths handcrafting different metal objects.

Enjoy the view from a rooftop café – Next to the main mosque, there are a couple of cafés with a rooftop that overlooks the Medina skyline. 

Tourbet El Bey – A mausoleum containing tens of tombs from all the important people that lived during Ali Pasha’s reign, in the 18th century. The Ottoman-era green dome is the highlight of the place.

Because of the tourism decline, entering is a bit tricky, as it is not officially opened, but there is one local guy that has the key. I tried entering the first time with no success but, on my way back, an old man approached me, claiming that he could open it for me, plus he gave me a guided tour inside. He only charged me 7 dinars.

Dar Ben Abdallah Palace – This is supposed to be the best house palace in the Medina but, unfortunately, it was closed when I came, so I just checked it from outside. This palace is a clear example of how rich people used to live in the Medina in the 19th century.

What to do in Tunis on day 2 – Bardo Museum & Ville Nouvelle and around

On your second day, I recommend you pay a visit to the Bardo Museum and then spend the rest of your day in the European Quarter of Tunis.

How to visit the Bardo Museum in Tunis

This is the best museum to visit in Tunis.

Placed inside one of the best palaces in the country, Bardo Museum contains one of the largest collection in the world of Roman mosaics, which once adorned the presumptuous Roman villas you are likely to visit during your trip around the country.

The museum, however, is today a bit messy, as many rooms and areas are going under an eternal renovation process, like most touristic sites in the country. 

It opens from 9am to 5pm, from Tuesday to Sunday. Entrance fee 11 dinars. It is 5km from downtown, but you can reach it by tram.

Book a day tour to Bardo Museum (combined with the Medina). CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Things to do in Ville Nouvelle – Highlights

Ville Nouvelle is the colonial French district.

Here you find some churches, fancy hotels, boulangeries, endless Italian restaurants, gelato stalls, bars, and pretty much anything you may find in France, but with a Maghrebi touch and way more chaotic.

The district is huge, composed of several streets from all sizes, and I recommend you begin your day walking around randomly to check all the Marseille-like facades, and end your day in Habib Bourguiba. 

Habib Bourguiba – The main avenue in Ville Nouvelle doesn’t look like a North African avenue, like not at all. Composed of tree-lined streets filled with terraces where the locals meet over an espresso, this is the best place to end up your day and check out what modern Tunis is like. 

Synagogue of Tunis – Amazing place. This is the only still functional synagogue I have ever seen in an Arab country. Well, apparently, there is one in Cairo as well, but I never saw it. The one in Tunis is surrounded by wire and a few armed soldiers.

You can only enter with a special permit and, if you come close to check it from outside, you will trigger the soldier’s attention but if they see you are a tourist, you will be fine. For me, this was one of the best places to visit in Tunis.

Abandoned Hotel (Hotel du Lac) – At the end of Habib Bourguiba to the left, there is a wing-shaped abandoned hotel. If you like this kind of stuff, then you can’t miss it. You can find the location on the map. 

Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul – It’s funny that Tunis is the only Arab capital whose main square is dominated by a Cathedral and not a mosque. 

Jamaica Bar – In Habib Bourguiba, Al Hana Hotel has a rooftop bar in its 10th floor, where you get the best panoramic views of the city.  

What to see in Tunis on day 3 – La Goulette, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, and La Marsa

Welcome to fancy Tunis.

This part of the city has 4 distinctive areas worth to check out, each one being so different from each other.

How to get here from downtown

There is a train that runs all day long until almost midnight. It leaves from the end of Habib Bourguiba.

One single ticket costs 0.7 dinars, and each area has its own train station, la Goulette being the first station, which is 16km from downtown.

Alternatively, you can go by taxi, which costs 10 dinars to La Goulette.

Things to do in La Goulette – Highlights

La Goulette is the first neighborhood you bump into when coming from downtown, an area which is definitely humbler than the rest, much more local, but here you also find the best and cheapest seafood restaurants in the city, all of them always packed with locals from all social levels who wish to enjoy fresh seafood on a budget. 

I strongly recommend La Maison de la Grillade , where I had a stuffed calamari couscous, better than any other couscous I ever had before, as in Tunisia they make it juicier than its Maghrebi neighbors.

La Goulette also has a more local beach but it is not that nice.

Things to do in Carthage – Highlights

For many, Carthage is one of the best things to do in Tunis.

Originally founded by the Phoenicians – which came from today Lebanon – nearly 3,000 years ago, Carthage then became one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire, the 5th largest imperial city. 

Today, the main site is in total ruins, like very ruined, so you will need to have some imagination, but the few columns that remain are located on the top of Byrsa Hill, from where you get epic views of the Gulf of Tunis. 

There are several sites to visit spread all over Carthage. You can buy a multi-entry ticket for 12 dinars, and visiting all of them takes a few hours. These are the ones I visited:

Byrsa Hill – The heart of Carthage are the ruins located on top. To get here, you will have to walk from the train station through the fanciest mansions in Tunis. 

Roman Amphitheater – Located 15 minutes from Byrsa Hill, this used to be one of the biggest in the Roman Empire. It could accommodate up to 36,000 people.

Punic Ports – Built by the Carthaginians but then re-shaped by the Romans in a circular shape, these two ports were very important for Carthage’s development.

Sanctuary of Tophet – The Carthaginians used this place for sacrificing their children, something that even the Romans found horrific, so they build a temple and other things on top of it. 

Book a tour to all the Roman sites of Carthage CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Things to do in Sidi Bou Said – Highlights

A Santorini-like village in its purest Mediterranean form, Sidi Bou Said is the cliff-top, postcard-like town that everybody likes, both tourists and locals.

When the Muslims in Spain were defeated in the 16th century, many of them sought refuge here, so that is why some of the houses have an Andalusian style, as well as Ottoman.

There are a few art galleries and several cafés, but the best you can do is just walking around all the Instagrammable spots.

Book this great tour to Sidi Bou Said CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Things to do in La Marsa – Highlights

La Marsa isn’t a really a place for sightseeing, but this is the most Westernized place in Tunis, the area where most expats live, as here you can find regular cafés where women won’t be stared at, bars and the best beach in the city. 

I recommend you check the weekly Couchsurfing event because they tend to organize stuff here, but you should attend it anyways because it is a great way to meet open-minded locals.

This was my list of the best things to do in Tunis in a 3-day itinerary. Have any more suggestion? Please post it in the comments section.

❗ More information for visiting Tunis

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

All guides and articles for traveling in Tunisia destination

• Tunisia Travel Guide
• Is Tunisia Safe?

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19 comments

Great post, totally under the radar location. I’m looking forward to a road trip from Morocco through Algeria to Tunis!

Not possible to do this trip. The Moroccan-Algerian border is closed.

Oh man what a shame! But thanks for the heads up!

Hey Joan! Were you able to take a Drone there? I saw you did on Iran, how you travel with them? I’m getting the Mavic Mini (only 249g) even fits in your pocket!

Hey Daniel, I took it but drones are not allowed to fly in Tunisia, so be aware of that

This was a really helpful post when planning my own recent off-season trip to Tunisia (December). I’d also recommend getting out of the city to see the Roman ruins at Dougga. These are really well preserved and the place was basically empty (except for sheep!) when we went. Northern Tunisia is definitely an easy introduction to off-the-beaten-track travel from Europe.

Thanks for the post Did you visit the Berber villages in the south. It was one of your highlights. I’m heading south in May – any advice

Hi Claire, yes I did, my advice is to rent a car because moving around by public transportation in that area proves to be difficult

Thank you for sharing your experience!! We are currently in Tunisia and your blog has been very helpful for us.

Amazing, very glad to hear that 🙂

I am about to go to Tunis, this coming weekend for a 3-day trip and this blog has been extremely useful. I particularly like the honest way that you approach assessment of some of the potential itinerary items.

thank you 🙂

I appreciate the info, but you should narrow your site’s width and add some padding. It’s a bit difficult to read at the moment.

Okay, nevermind, it is an issue with the sidebar, it loaded right after I commented…

Your blog has some helpful content, thanks! But I think you should reconsider your comment on crossing the border between Libya and Tunisia as it comes across as rather offensive. “only crazy people travel to Libya….”

thanks but we take people to Libya all the time!

Tunis Hey Joan, and other ATC readers! I spent a few days in Tunis before my ATC Mauritania trip. Thanks for the great guide here. I thought I would pass along a few updates as well:

Taxi mafia: The Taxi mafia is alive and well! At first they tried to charge me €25 (85 TND!!) for a ride from the airport to the Medina, even though he had a meter. He tried his best to hide the meter and speak aggressively to me during the ride, and even even shut off the car when we arrived so I couldn’t see the price anymore. So make sure you keep an eye on the price just before you arrive to your destination (maybe take a photo even), and try to have small coins or exact change if you can. In the end I paid 13 TND to Medina (and told him to call the police if he had a problem with that), and 9 TND back to the airport the more honest driver.

Other prices: Prices seem to be a tad higher than what’s written here, probably due to inflation in the past year or two. I paid: – 8 TND for ojja – 5 TND for a shawarma – 0.5-1 TND for a bus ride – 5 TND for beer – 1-3 TND for coffee – 20 TND for Train to Sousse Also worth noting, that food and other small things have their prices 1000 times higher, to account for decimal places. So an 8 TND meal might show as 8000.

Ride to Sidi Bou Saïd: Not sure if the train that’s mentioned in this blog still exists. I asked around to a few people, and I ended up taking a bus from the Tunis Marine station (end of Habib Bourguiba St). It was 1 TND. You can buy the ticket at a counter, and in this bus itself for the return journey. Can recommend Sidi Bou Said beach too!

Ez-Zitouna Mosque/rooftop cafe: The entrance for the courtyard for the mosque is not super clear. It’s only open after 2 PM due to prayers, and it’s located on Souk Attarine St. There’ll be a sign saying Muslims only, but you can actually still enter. You just can’t enter the actual inside part of the Mosque where people pray.

For the rooftop cafe, they’re not obvious to find. I can recommend “Panorama Cafe”. You enter through a shop that sells souvenir items and is down a tiny alley near the streets with all the shops. I paid 6 TND for an Arabic coffee (and the view) and had the place to myself for an hour 🙂 As I was wondering around later when the daily traffic started to pick up, I got hassled by two people telling me to come to their rooftop Cafés (one guy even telling me not to go to the mosque but to come to his café instead). It was a bit uncomfortable and they’re very annoying and in your face. People were friendly at Panorama.

Other stuff: – There’s a great local vegetable and fish market located on Rue de Allemagne near the Medina and Ville Nouvelle. I was the only tourist here and it’s quite bustling and alive!

Amazing report Mohit, thanks a lot!

Ooo one other tip. TND is a “closed” currency, which means people can not bring TND into or out of the country. So if you want to keep any money for future travels or as souvenir, you’ll have to tell a white lie after the security when they ask you how much cash you have 😉

Sorry for the spelling errors! Typing from my phone at the airport.

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One Day in Tunis Itinerary – What to do in Tunis, Tunisia

Tunis, a city where history and modernity collide to create a vibrant and captivating destination. Situated on the sparkling Mediterranean coast, Tunis is a bustling metropolis that boasts a rich and diverse cultural heritage spanning centuries. From the winding alleys of the medina, filled with tantalizing aromas and colourful bazaars, to the sleek and contemporary architecture of the modern city, Tunis offers a feast for the senses. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavours of this dynamic city, and discover a world of ancient history, lively street life, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply a curious traveller, Tunis has something for everyone. So why not join us on a journey through this enchanting city and discover its many treasures for yourself?

What’s Best Time to Visit Tunis?

The best time to visit Tunis is during the spring and autumn months of March to May and September to Novembe r when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months of June to August can be very hot and humid, making it uncomfortable to explore the city. The winter months of December to February can be rainy and chilly, but it’s still a good time to visit if you don’t mind cooler temperatures.

A Few Facts About Tunis

• The city of Tunis has an ancient history dating back to the 9th century BC, when it was founded by the Libyans. Later, the Phoenicians from Tyre took over the site of Carthage from the Libyans. However, the city was destroyed during the Third Punic War between Carthage and Rome in 146 BC, along with Carthage itself.
• The name Tunis has been the subject of various interpretations. According to some scholars, it may have originated from the Phoenician goddess Tanith, while others suggest that it could have been derived from Tynes, an ancient location similar to present-day Al-Kasbah. Yet another possibility is that it came from the Berber root ens, which means “to lie down” or “to pass the night,” and could have meant “camp at night,” “camp,” or “stop.” The exact meaning of the term has varied over time and space.

• The Bardo National Museum is the largest museum in Africa after the Grand Egyptian Museum. The museum houses numerous archaeological artifacts, including Stone Age tools discovered in Kebili dating back 200,000 years. The museum is situated in the former palace of Tunisia’s rulers, adding to its grandeur and historical significance.

One Day in Tunis Itinerary

If you only have 24 hours to spend in Tunis, there are a few must-see attractions and activities to make the most of your time. Here’s what’s best to do while in the city.

Start Your Day at the Bardo National Museum

Once you check in to your hotel , starting your day at the Bardo National Museum in Tunis, Tunisia is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and culture. Begin by arriving early to beat the crowds and enjoy the museum’s tranquil surroundings (you can also book a skip-the-lin tour here ). Once inside, take your time exploring the museum’s many galleries, each of which showcases a unique aspect of Tunisia’s rich heritage.

Marvel at the exquisite Roman mosaics, which are considered some of the finest in the world, and learn about Tunisia’s rich history through the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts. Take a break at the museum cafe to savor traditional Tunisian cuisine and recharge before continuing your exploration.

Continue on to Belvedere Park

The park is a vast expanse of lush greenery that provides a serene oasis in the heart of the capital. Begin your visit by taking a stroll along the tree-lined pathways and enjoying the park’s many fountains and ponds. Admire the park’s beautifully manicured gardens and marvel at the colourful blooms that dot the landscape.

For a deeper understanding of the park’s history and culture, visit the Museum of Modern Art, which is located within the park and features a stunning collection of Tunisian and international contemporary art. The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, including a playground, tennis courts, and a running track. End your visit with a picnic on the grass, enjoying the tranquillity and beauty of this hidden gem!

Visit the Medina of Tunis

The vast and intricate network of streets and alleys that make up the medieval medina is one of North Africa’s most impressive, and a true treasure of Tunisia. This sprawling maze is home to a myriad of covered souqs, where you can find everything from footwear to shisha pipes, as well as vibrant cafes, and bustling residential areas dotted with grand, brightly painted doorways.

The medina is also peppered with historic palaces, hammams, mosques, and madrassas, the latter being schools for studying the Quran. Many of these structures are lavishly decorated with ornate tiles, intricate carved stucco, and majestic marble columns, providing a feast for the eyes and a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Tunisia.

Check out the Zitouna Mosque

This significant mosque is located at the heart of Tunis’ medina, having been founded in 734 on the site of a former church. Throughout the centuries, it has undergone multiple renovations, with a complete reconstruction taking place in the 9th century. The mosque’s prayer hall is a grand and impressive space, containing more than 200 columns that were retrieved from Roman Carthage, adding to its unique historical charm. The Almohades-style minaret in the northwest corner of the mosque is a standout feature and a recognizable landmark in the medina.

Only Muslims are permitted to enter the mosque, but visitors can still enjoy the magnificent view of the courtyard from the terrace of the Panorama Medina Cafe, offering a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the mosque’s remarkable architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Enjoy a traditional Tunisian lunch

Stay in the area, take a break and try one of the restaurants. Try Le Baroque , a trendy spot offering a mix of Tunisian and European cuisine; Dar El Jeld , an elegant eatery serving traditional Tunisian dishes in a restored 17th-century mansion; and Restaurant El Ali , a popular family-run spot known for its friendly service and delicious home-cooked Tunisian food. Or try something like L’Atelier du Goût a contemporary fusion restaurant favoured by Tunisian foodies, offering a changing menu that blends French and Tunisian cuisine in a relaxed and casual setting!

Shop at Avenue Habib Bourguiba

This bustling thoroughfare is named after the first president of Tunisia and is home to some of the city’s most exciting attractions. From the tree-lined sidewalks to the wide pedestrian walkways, you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants, and other places of interest that make this avenue a must-visit.

Take a break from the sun in one of the street cafes and enjoy some delicious French-inspired meals or Mediterranean cuisine. As you stroll down the avenue, don’t forget to take in the historical landmarks like the St. Vincent de Paul Cathedral and the Art Nouveau-style Municipal Theatre. The Independence Square , which includes a statue of Tunisian philosopher Ibn Khaldoun, is also a must-see in Tunis. With so much to discover on this lively street, it’s no wonder Avenue Habib Bourguiba is a top attraction in Tunis.

End Your Day With A Dinner and a View

As the sun begins to dip and the sky is painted with hues of orange and pink, the charming cliffside village of Sidi Bou Said is your best choice.  However, if you’re short on time you’ll find a plethora of local restaurants offering North African cuisine in central Tunis. Indulge in the flavours of shakshuka, a delicious dish of eggs poached in a tomato sauce with spices, or brick a l’oeuf, a deep-fried savoury pastry filled with eggs.

And of course, no trip to Tunisia is complete without sampling couscous, a hearty staple of the local cuisine. Whether you choose to dine in one of the bustling markets or opt for a cozy restaurant tucked away in a quiet alley, you’re sure to enjoy a delightful dinner and a memorable end to your day in Tunisia.

Where to Stay In Tunis

Dar Ben Gacem

38 Rue du Pacha, La Medina, 1006 Tunis

The Dar Ben-Gacem Hotel is a charming and cozy boutique hotel located in the heart of the old Medina of Tunis. The hotel boasts traditional Tunisian architecture, offering guests an authentic and unique experience. The hotel’s rooms are decorated with traditional Tunisian furnishings and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, private bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also features a beautiful courtyard with a fountain, where guests can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and a traditional Tunisian breakfast. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the Medina and is an ideal spot for enjoying the sunset with a cup of mint tea.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Dar el médina

Rue Sidi Ben Arous, La Medina, 1006 Tunis

The Dar El Medina Hotel is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of the historic Medina in Tunis, Tunisia. The hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion that retains much of its original architectural features and is surrounded by narrow alleyways, souks, and mosques. The rooms at the Dar El Medina Hotel are individually decorated with traditional Tunisian furnishings and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city and serves a delicious breakfast in the morning. The hotel’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s attractions, including the Bardo Museum and the Carthage Archaeological Site.

Royal Victoria – Ex. British Embassy

5 Place de la victoire port de France, La Medina, 1001 Tunis

This historic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1885 and offers a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. The hotel boasts a variety of room options, including single, double, and executive suites, all of which are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. The rooms are beautifully decorated with classic furnishings and neutral tones, creating a calm and relaxing ambience. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities and services during their stay, including a 24-hour front desk, a business centre, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The hotel also offers a restaurant serving delicious Tunisian and international cuisine, as well as a bar that is perfect for a refreshing drink after a busy day exploring the city.

Day Trips From Tunis

Carthage is an ancient city that was founded in the 9th century BC and was once the center of the Carthaginian Empire. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to several historical landmarks, including the Carthage Museum, the Antonine Baths, and the Punic Ports. Sidi Bou Said is a charming village located on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its blue and white buildings, narrow winding streets, and stunning views. Visitors can explore the village, take in the beautiful architecture, and visit the Sidi Bou Said Museum. A day trip to Carthage and Sidi Bou Said provides a unique opportunity to experience Tunisia’s rich history and culture.

Kairouan, El Jem and Sousse

This day trip from Tunis takes you to three of Tunisia’s most historic and culturally significant destinations. The first stop is Kairouan, a city known as the “fourth holy city of Islam.” Here you’ll visit the Great Mosque, the oldest mosque in North Africa and an important pilgrimage site. You’ll also visit Medina, the city’s historic center, which is home to many important religious and cultural sites. The next stop is El Jem, where you’ll visit the impressive Roman amphitheater, one of the largest and best-preserved in the world. Finally, the tour takes you to the coastal city of Sousse, where you’ll explore the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Ribat, a fortified monastery built in the 8th century. Throughout the tour, you’ll learn about Tunisia’s rich history and cultural heritage from an expert local guide.

Dougga and Testour

Just two hours drive from Tunis, the Testour region is a picturesque road trip. The Roman town of Dougga, awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO, offers the best-preserved Roman site in North Africa, with a remarkably intact Roman Temple of Jupiter and intricate mosaic floors. After exploring, head east to the charming town of Testour with its Andalusian-inspired architecture, Spanish-style main square, and the city’s Great Mosque featuring two Stars of David in the minaret’s design, paying homage to the Jewish community that helped their neighbours build the mosque.

Extra Tips for Visiting Tunis

• As a tourist in Tunisia, it is advisable to respect local customs during Ramadan by avoiding eating and drinking in public places during the day. While it is not expected of tourists to follow this practice, it is appreciated as a gesture of courtesy.
• Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum, with holding hands or having an arm around a partner being acceptable, but engaging in more intimate behaviour may attract unwanted attention.
• Some mosques allow tourists to visit but dress modestly, and it is best to check with a local guide for details.
• When using taxis, it is recommended to use services like Bolt, which provides upfront pricing, or ensure that the meter is turned on.
• The official language of Tunis is Arabic, but French is also widely spoken and many people also speak English.
• Tunis is known for its delicious cuisine, including dishes like couscous, brik (a fried pastry stuffed with egg and tuna), and shakshuka (eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce).
• The currency in Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND).

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Tunis

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Tunis is an easygoing capital city, which makes for a perfect introduction to Tunisia before setting off to explore the country further. The heart of the central city is the medina (old town), where simply strolling the squiggly alleyways is the major tourist attraction.

The two major things to do while in town are both out of the center. The world-famous Bardo Museum is home to one of the world's most important mosaic collections. Visitors staying in the beach resorts of Hammamet and Sousse come on sightseeing day trips to the capital simply to visit this museum. The other major historical attraction is the remnants of Ancient Carthage , scattered throughout a shoreside Tunis suburb.

When you've soaked up enough history during your Tunis stay, one of the best places to visit is Sidi Bou Said. This whitewashed village is a Mediterranean idyll right on the city outskirts.

Find out how to spend your time in town with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Tunis.

See also: Where to Stay in Tunis

1. Explore the Ruins of Carthage

2. the national bardo museum, 3. day trip to sidi bou said, 4. get lost amid the medina, 5. view the city from the roof of the olive tree mosque, 6. stroll the streets of the ville nouvelle (new town), 7. la goulette (tunis port), 8. mosque of sidi mahrez, 9. dar hussein, 10. parc du belvédère and the museum of modern art, 11. rue sidi brahim and rue du pacha, 12. day trip to takrouna, where to stay in tunis for sightseeing, tunis, tunisia - climate chart, history of tunis.

The remnants of ancient Carthage – fabled wealthy seafaring city of the Phoenicians – lie scattered across the Bay of Tunis.

The evocative tumbled columns and piles of marble rubble are bordered by a panorama of the Mediterranean Sea, which was so fundamental to the city's prosperity.

Completely destroyed in the third Punic War in 146 BCE, the surviving ruins pale in comparison to some of North Africa's other ancient sites, but this doesn't mean you shouldn't visit. With their seafront setting, the ruins have an unbeatable, lost-in-time air.

The separate sites are strung out along the bay area. From the central city, take the Tunis Light Railway line direct to the various Carthage stops on the line. Some of the sites are close enough to be walked between if it's not too hot.

Don't skip the views across the entire area from the top of Byrsa Hill.

• Read More: Exploring the Ruins of Ancient Carthage: A Visitor's Guide

One of the world's three most renowned mosaic art collections (the other two are both in Turkey) resides in this opulent palace museum.

Inside, room after room exhibits gloriously intricate and still vibrantly fresh examples of mosaic art that have been unearthed from sites across the entirety of Tunisia .

The Sousse Room, Odysseus Room, and Dougga Room are the highlights, with their famed, incredibly well-preserved mosaic floorings from the Hellenistic and Roman era, but the entire collection is well worth an afternoon of browsing.

The ground floor of the building holds some interesting non-mosaic exhibits with displays of the neo-Punic, Christian, and Islamic eras.

Official site: www.bardomuseum.tn

Address: Rue Mongi Slim

The gorgeous Andalusian-style seaside neighborhood of Sidi Bou Said owes its fame to three young painters. While living here in 1914, Paul Klee, August Macke, and Louis Moilliet captured the beauty of its whitewashed buildings and blue doors on canvas.

Sidi Bou Said has been something of a bohemian artists' quarter ever since and is a favored weekend hangout spot for Tunis locals.

There are no major tourist attractions as such (that's part of its charm), but you can't fail to be beguiled by the perfect white-and-blue streets, cliffside cafés, and picture-postcard shoreline.

This is a place made for idle strolling, trinket shopping, and sitting back with a coffee simply soaking up the scenery.

• Read More: Exploring Sidi Bou Said: Tunis' Picturesque Seaside Suburb

Chock-a-block full of crumbling buildings found by weaving your way through a procession of ever-skinnier alleyways, the medina (old town) district is Tunis' historic heart and is brimming with sightseeing potential.

The main entrance gate, marking the end of the new city and beginning of the old is known as Bab el Bahr (Sea Gate). Built in 1848, it was known as Porte de France during the colonial period.

The old town walls of the Hafsid period may have long ago disappeared, but once inside, mosques, madrassas (Islamic schools of learning), and mausoleums boasting opulent tile work and splendid Fatimid and Ottoman architecture line the twisting streets.

Getting lost while meandering and stumbling onto some fabulous monumental relic is half the fun.

Shoppers should head to Souk des Chéchias, where the makers of Tunisia's traditional woolen hats have had their workshops for centuries. The area between Rue Djemma ez Zitouna and Rue Kasbah is where most of the souvenir stalls congregate.

Address: Main entry at Bab el Bahr (gate) on Rue el Jazira

The medina district's great mosque is home to some of the country's finest examples of religious architecture. Begun during the Umayyad dynasty in 732 CE, it has been added to and refined by conquering empires in the centuries since.

Although non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, visitors are free to wander around the opulent and tranquil exterior courtyard and also to head up to the rooftop, where dazzling tile work is on display.

The rooftop is also one of the best places in the medina to get panoramic photographs of the area.

Address: Rue Djemma ez Zitouna

A world away from the organic jumble of the medina, Tunis' ville nouvelle was developed during the French colonial era.

Its main core is Avenue Habib Bourguiba – a magnificently wide avenue planted with palms and eucalyptus trees. The street heads eastwards, from just outside the medina on Place de l'Indépendance towards the harbor, in a dead straight line.

The imposing St. Vincent de Paul Cathedral is the largest surviving building of Tunisia's French colonial period. Its bulky neo-Romanesque facade presides grandly over the north end of Place de l'Indépendance and at the time of construction in 1893, it was a monumental reminder of France's dominance over the country. Inside is the tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Architecture fans should check out the wonderful mix of colonial and post-colonial buildings along Avenue Habib Bourguiba, from the Modernist inverted pyramid of Hotel du Lac to the more genteel and grand European-style of the government buildings.

At the intersection with Avenue Mohammed V, Place d'Afrique has a clock monument symbolizing Tunisia's modern era.

La Goulette is the port suburb of the capital and has been a place of strategic importance (controlling the harbor entrance) since time immemorial.

In the reign of Emperor Charles V, it was the most important Spanish possession in the eastern Maghreb.

From 1574 onwards, the Ottoman rulers enlarged and strengthened the fortress built by Spain. La Goulette became a port only during the French colonial period, when the Lake of Tunis silted up and could no longer take ships of any size.

For sightseeing, La Goulette has Spanish and Ottoman forts to explore and the gateway of the Old Arsenal (on the Tunis Road).

If just soaking up the sea air is more your thing, the main coastal road (Avenue Franklin Rossevelt) is La Goulette's top promenading venue. Beyond the modern harbor, the long stretch of sandy beach is one of the city's top spots for evening and weekend relaxing.

This Ottoman-style mosque is named after the 10th-century marabout (holy man) Mohammed Mahrez es Seddiki (the "Ascetic"), who is the Islamic equivalent of a patron saint for the city. It's a graceful building topped off with nine white domes.

Mahrez played a vital role after the sacking of Tunis in 944 CE, encouraging citizens to rebuild and to develop trade and industry. He is buried across the road from the mosque.

Although non-Muslims cannot enter, the facade of the building is worth checking out while in the medina.

Address: Rue Sidi Mahrez, Medina

The sumptuous Dar Hussein Palace was built in the 18th century and restored during the 19th century.

Now home to Tunisia's National Institute of Archaeology and Art, visitors can wander freely in the beautiful inner courtyard (but aren't allowed into the palace itself) and soak up the opulent surroundings.

Nearby is the Dar Ben Abdallah, an 18th-century palace that has been put to good use as the home of the city's folk museum (the Musée du Patrimoine Traditionnel de la Ville de Tunis). The exhibits include faience, stucco ornament, costumes, and furniture.

Adress: Rue Sidi bou Khrissan, Medina

Location: Rue Sidi Bou Khrissan, Medina

This welcome splash of greenery is one of the city's top spots to catch your breath and regroup from the hustle of the busy streets.

The hillside has been planted with Aleppo pine, carob-trees, olive and fig trees, and palm trees, and those who take the short hike up to the top of the hill are rewarded with fantastic panoramas of the entire city (on a clear day).

On the east side of the park is the Museum of Modern Art, home to the country's top collection of work by Tunisian artists. The park is also home to the city's zoo.

These two streets (and their surrounding alleys) in the medina are home to a wealth of architectural gems and are a wonderful place to capture a sense of what the old town would have looked like before modernization.

The mid-19th-century Zaouia Sidi Brahim (Rue Sidi Brahim) is a showcase of sumptuous palace interiors, while 18th-century Dar Lasram (Rue du Tribunal) is another lavish example of palace style.

The Ottoman pasha once resided along Rue du Pacha, and the houses that still line the lane host some of the finest examples of engraved wooden doorways in the city.

The Amazigh (Berber) village of Takrouna is 110 kilometers south from Tunis. If you're only on a quick Tunisia trip, this is one of the closest places to the capital to experience some of the country's traditional stone-cut and dome-roofed village architecture.

The village is perched atop a cliff, and for many visitors, the main reason to visit is to photograph the village with its panoramic views of the farming plains sweeping out in all directions below.

Only a few families still live in the village. A couple of houses, can be entered so that visitors can see traditional village interior decoration, and there's a small café that serves simple local dishes.

Takrouna is also within day-tripping distance to Hammamet (46 kilometers northeast) and Sousse (56 kilometers southeast) and could be visited as a stop-off while journeying between Tunis and Sousse.

We recommend these great hotels in Tunis with easy access to the city's top sites, like the Olive Tree Mosque and the medina:

• Palais Bayram : luxury boutique hotel, steps from the medina, exquisitely restored 18th-century building, spa with traditional hammam.
• Hotel Belvedere Fourati : 4-star hotel, near Belvedere Park, modern decor, fitness center, free breakfast.
• Ibis Tunis : affordable rates, sleek decor, friendly staff, free parking.
• Hotel Metropole Residence : budget hotel, near the medina, friendly staff, clean rooms.

Thanks to its superb location on a wide, sheltered bay and a fertile hinterland, the site of present day Tunis is one of the two oldest cities in the entire Mediterranean area.

The first to settle here were the Numidians, who named their town Tunes. Afterwards, the Phoenicians founded Carthage near here in 814 BCE.

The rise of Tunis began with the final destruction of Carthage by the Arabs in 698 CE. The Lake of Tunis provided a natural harbor for the Muslim fleet.

Under the rule of Ibrahim II of the Aghlabid dynasty in 894 CE, the capital was transferred from Kairouan to Tunis, and the town began to develop into one of the leading spiritual and intellectual centers of the Islamic world.

In the 16th century, Tunis' prosperity attracted the attention of pirates, who captured and looted the town in 1534. In the following year, the Emperor Charles V drove out the pirates and Tunis became Spanish, though the administration remained in the hands of the ruling Hafsid dynasty.

In 1569, the Ottoman Turks over-powered the Spaniards, but Don John of Austria in turn defeated the Turks. In 1574, however, the Ottoman army won back the town, and it became the seat of an Ottoman governor.

In 1871, the Turkish Bey of Tunis, Hussein, declared himself independent of Constantinople, but the city (and country) fell under the colonial rule of France, which made Tunis an administrative center of their North African protectorate.

French rule finally ended on March 20, 1956 and in the following year, Tunis became capital of the Tunisian Republic.

More on Tunisia

The Tunisian Way

Learn about Tunisian life

The ultimate Tunis travel guide

I am thrilled that you are planning to travel to the spectacular capital of Tunisia. Tunis has so much to offer that an unforgettable trip is guaranteed. This is my ultimate Tunis travel guide to make planning your trip effortless while sharing some practical tips and inspiration. This guide covers airport information, top attractions, the best places to eat, drink, and party, and the best hotels.

Read before your trip

What to wear in Tunisia 40 things to do and see in Tunisia The weather in Tunisia- The best time to visit Top 10 places to start discovering Tunisia Travel budget guide – is Tunisia expensive or cheap? Travel guide for a first-time traveler to Tunisia

Arriving to and departing from Tunis

It’s time to start planning a trip to Tunis. Firstly, I recommend reading through the handy airport guides listed below. Mainly if you are arriving at Tunis-Carthage international airport . In the arriving to Tunis guide, you find information about Tunis-Carthage airport, passenger route, things to do at the airport, transportation, and services. It’s good to know what’s ahead of you even though Tunis airport is like any other airport. 

Tunis airport guide for arriving passengers

Sooner or later, it is time to say goodbye to Tunisia and heads toward home. I have created a little guide to ensure the smoothest return flight from Tunis airport. Firstly, I talk about packing and why you should use the rest of your Tunisian dinars. Secondly, how to get to the Tunis airport and how much time you need at the Tunis airport. I also made a passenger route map for departing passengers. So, make sure to read it through.

Flying out from Tunis airport – guide

What to do in Tunis- Tunis travel guide

Planning a trip to Tunis, how to decide what to do? To give you some inspiration, I have listed 65 things to do in Tunis. This capital offers historic sites and museums to discover. But there are also new foods and drinks to try, charming restaurants to admire sunsets, and vivid cafes to kickstart your day. Click here to see all the 65 things to do in Tunis.

Maybe you are looking for a historical bazaar, shopping mall, or common international brands. I have created a shopping guide to help you find the best places for shopping in Tunis. Travelers looking for souvenirs are in luck. Tunisia has a long tradition of craftsmanship -wandering around beautiful bazaars combines historical sightseeing and shopping. Are you ready to fill up your days with shopping?

The best places for shopping in Tunis

Cultural activities - Tunis travel guide

This Tunis travel guide wouldn’t be complete without cultural activities. Tunis has a long and impressive history. Historical, cultural, and art attractions will give you an insight into Tunisian history, culture, and traditions. I highly recommend picking at least a couple of cultural activities for your holiday. Here you find the complete list of cultural activities in Tunis or choose one of the categories below according to your interests.

Historic buildings and sites

Come and take a walk in Carthage, the old capital of ancient Carthaginian. Discover the ruins of Carthage , Roman Amphitheater, Antonine baths, L’acropolium, Byrsa Hill, and the National Museum. Or what do you think about the old palace or Medina of Tunis? Definitely worth visiting, I would say. Click here and take an entertaining journey to must-see historic buildings and sites in Tunis.

So maybe you have seen Louvre in Paris, MoMa in New York, and Guggenheim in Bilbao. Tunis is not the city of the most glorious museums in the world. However, there are museums to visit for first-time visitors and experts of Tunisian cultural heritage.

For first-time visitors in Tunis, I recommend The National Bardo Museum. Bardo is the best museum in Tunis and the most popular touristic attraction. Another great option is an archaeological Carthage National Museum located on the top of Byrsa Hill in the city of Carthage. Here you find more museum options for your holiday.

Art galleries

Tunis is the home of many art galleries. I have chosen five art galleries for you to enjoy stunning paintings, sculptures, photography, and much more. Go and discover the artworks of artists from Tunisia and the MENA region. See exhibitions that reflect cultural and historical diversity and heritage. In addition, a couple of the art galleries are located in the charismatic town of Sidi Bou Said, which is definitely worth visiting.

The best art galleries in Tunis

Where to stay in Tunis - Tunis travel guide

Every traveler has different priorities in choosing accommodation while on vacation. Some prefer the location over the quality, and some select the budget over the ratings. Among the hundreds of hotels, figuring out where to stay in Tunis might be challenging. I have made a list of 15 hotels in Tunis, including budget-friendly hotels, family hotels, and a couple of options for someone looking for luxury. Click here to see the entire list of hotels, or choose one of the categories below.

Family hotels

Tunisia is an excellent choice for a family holiday due to the long summer, countless beaches, and family-friendly hotels. Choosing the right hotel for the entire family might be challenging. But as always, I am here to give you a couple of great options so that you will make the most out of your stay. Here is the list of the best family hotels in Tunis.

Cheap hotels

Price is usually a factor in booking hotels. Luckily, Tunis has a great selection of hotels for all budgets. For those without endlessly deep pockets or someone who is looking for a budget-friendly hotel, I have chosen the best cheap hotels in Tunis. Even with a slightly smaller budget, quality doesn’t need to be compromised. Some fine hotels are waiting for you.

The best cheap hotels in Tunis

Luxury hotels

Enjoy the Mediterranean beachfront, luxury facilities, and world-class service. Perhaps relax with high-quality spa treatments and Tunisian Hammam. I will share five luxury hotels in Tunis with you . Choose one of the listed hotels, and the success of your summer holiday is guaranteed.

Where to eat and drink in Tunis - Tunis travel guide

The vacation isn’t complete without trying Tunisian cuisine. Forget the all-inclusive food buffets for some time and go out to eat authentic local food. Below, I give you ideas about where to eat or drink in Tunis. Share your favorite restaurant in the comments.

Where to eat and drink in Tunis

The best restaurants in Tunis - Tunis travel guide

I love eating and trying new restaurants and dishes. Are you eager to try the best restaurants in Tunis filled with local people? Most importantly, restaurants that serve delicious food? I have gathered the list of the 15 best restaurants in Tunis , and with it, you will find the best places to eat. So, if you are curious about where to find authentic Tunisian food, fresh seafood, or gooey pizza? Be sure to read the list through.

The best cafes in Tunis

On my visit to Tunisia, I always buy a package of coffee to take with me. I have also purchased two coffee pots. I am trying to say that I have been pleased with Tunisian coffee and cafe culture. If you are looking for a good cup of coffee and delicious Tunisian pastry with it, here are the best cafes in Tunis that you should check out.

Nightlife in Tunis - Tunis travel guide

Your holiday has started, and looking for a place to party? Tunis is known for charming medinas, the never-ending summer, and delicious food. Besides these, it has a very vibrant nightlife. I created you an ultimate guide for Tunis nightlife, where you find guidelines for partying in Tunisia and 18 spots to spend your night in Tunis.

Here you find the best bars in Tunis. Precisely, I will share the best bars for after-work drinks ( works perfectly also for holiday celebrations, or how sounds happy-hour deals and relaxing vibes). Followed by the best beach bars in Tunis if you prefer to have drinks with a view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Cocktail bars - Tunis travel guide

When it comes to exploring a cocktail scene in Tunis. I have a couple of great cocktail bars on my mind. Pop by for a drink or spend the evening sipping tasty cocktails. A successful evening is made of cocktails, interesting talks, chill music, and good vibes. If this sounds good to you, check out a completed list of the best cocktail bars in Tunis.

Luckily, lounge bars aren’t just found in airports and hotels anymore. Actually, they’ve become hugely popular in Tunisia. Whether you fancy a glass of chardonnay, good vibes, chill music, or a classic gin-tonic, be sure to find it in Tunisian lounges. So, here’s my pick of the best lounges in Tunis to visit on your next trip.

Tunis is not the capital of the most notorious and iconic nightclubs. But there are some great clubs that will offer you an unforgettable night out. Grab a drink, have a boogie, and celebrate with your friends. So, willing to dance on Tunisian night?

The best nightclubs in Tunis

I hope you enjoyed this ultimate Tunis travel guide. Let me know in the comments if you want to know more about something. I still have many topics that I would like to cover in this guide. But for now, this is a good start. See you again next week!

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Africa , All Destinations

Two days in tunis itinerary: tunisia’s fascinating capital.

Are you looking for a two days in Tunis itinerary? Look no further – I recently collaborated with the tourism board in Tunis to create a fantastic, action-packed itinerary for travellers to the city.

The sprawling, historic city of Tunis isn’t as well-known as other North African metropolises like Marrakech and Cairo, but it’s incredibly underrated.

Dating back to the 4th century BC when it was a Berber settlement, Tunis is like a cultural onion, with layer after layer of history boasting remnants from the Phoenician, Roman and of course, the early Arabic periods. 

The city centre’s piece de resistance is without a doubt a beautiful Medina, a labyrinth of covered streets and magical souks.

However, one of the best places to visit in all of North Africa – the UNESCO ancient city of Carthage – sits just a short drive away from Tunis.

I’d recommend spending two full days in Tunis to see the highlights of the city centre and Carthage.

It’s the ideal add-on to a trip to Tunisia’s other highlights like the beaches of Sousse and Hammamet, El Jem and the Sahara Desert. 

As Tunisia is a small country, you could base in Tunis for a few extra days and do some day trips out of the city to see the rest of the nation’s highlights. 

I’ll go into a detailed two days in Tunis itinerary in this blog post and mention some of the best day trips at the end! 

Disclaimer: Some of these attractions and meals were provided as part of the collaboration with the tourism board.

2 days in Tunis itinerary day one

For your first day in Tunis, focus on the Medina, which is the beating heart of this capital city, with enthralling historical stories at every single step.

Then, head outside of the old city to see some of the capital’s other highlights.

Tunis Medina

My favourite part of Tunis was, without a doubt, its historic Medina.

On this walking tour , your guide will take you through all of the passageways of the historic souks, detailing the history of the old city of Tunis and showing you the best places to purchase souvenirs! 

You’ll also see places of worship like the Al-Zaytuna Mosque which is in the heart of the Medina, and look out for the unusual square minaret which looms above the old city.

You could spend hours walking around this enchanting part of the city – and we did just that on our first day in Tunis.

Definitely pack comfy shoes, and be ready to take a million photos!

You’ll also visit the Tunis Central Market , which is an incredible snapshot of local life.

You can see whatever fruits and vegetables are in season and even purchase some Tunisian dates or other products! 

Lunch at Foundouk El Attarine

For lunch, Foundouk El Attarine offers a three-course a la carte menu, is ideally located in the Medina and provides a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the old city. 

I had a delicious Tunisian salad, vegetarian couscous and sorbet for dessert, with a zesty glass of lemonade on the side, with a delicious mint tea after dessert.

It has a lovely courtyard atmosphere and the service is impeccable. 

Tunis Museum

After lunch, I’d recommend exploring the National Bardo Museum , where you can take in the immense history of this ancient country, with mosaics dating back to the Roman age and information about how Islam first came to the country. 

Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul

You could also see the Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul, or “St Paul’s Cathedral”.

Dating back to 1881 when Tunisia was a French colony, this Catholic cathedral was made in the Gothic revival, Moorish revival and Neo-Byzantine architectural styles.

While there was a dramatic decline in Catholic citizens of Tunisia post-independence, it remains part of the Catholic Church in Tunisia.

After your lunch at Foundouk El Attarine, you might not be too hungry for dinner – we just went out for a Tunisian sandwich and relaxed in the hotel!

There are plenty of takeaway shops serving these Tunisian sandwiches. Generally, they’re filled with cheese, meat, salad and various sauces (you can choose which ingredients you want when you order) and either served cold or put on a stove and heated.

The result is a delicious toasted cheese-style dish!

However, if you do fancy a sit-down meal, Essaraya is also located in the Medina and came well recommended by our hotel.

Day two in Tunis itinerary

This day focuses on the best places just outside of central Tunis – Carthage and Sidi Bou Said.

On your second day in Tunis, I’d recommend heading to Carthage , a sprawling complex of ruins to the east of the city, and somewhere that’s steeped in a fascinating amount of history.

Founded by the Phoenicians who sailed here from Lebanon, this historic city was then destroyed, occupied and rebuilt by the Romans. 

It has a turbulent and complex history that you’ll sense as you walk around the enormous area.

Nowadays, there are incredible ancient Roman baths, villas, and an amphitheatre.

While this amphitheatre isn’t as well restored as El Jem, it’s still well worth visiting! 

The feeling of walking through a UNESCO site with millenniums of history was awe-inspiring, and the backdrop against the sea helped us envisage how this complex was created.

You’ll need a car or a driver and guide to see Carthage properly – you could do this tour that incorporates Carthage and Sidi Bou Said .

Sidi Bou Said

From Carthage, head to Sidi Bou Said , which is one of the most picturesque Mediterranean villages in Tunisia – and perhaps all of North Africa.

With narrow streets lined with bright white cottages with blue doors, this village rivals Santorini in beauty.

If you live here, it’s actually illegal to paint your house anything other than blue! 

Lunch at La Villa Bleu

La Villa Bleu is a popular place to go for lunch. This restaurant has an extensive menu with views over the beautiful coastline and bright blue Mediterranean Sea. 

There are some vegetarian options on the menu, but we, unfortunately, didn’t get to try them all!

We did sample a delicious salad for starters, followed by cous cous and a sumptuous lemon tart for dessert.

Explore Sidi Bou Said some more

You could easily spend all day getting lost in the streets of Sidi Bou Said, taking in the view and shopping for souvenirs. 

However, if you want to learn a little more about the bright blue and white town, head to Dar el Annabi , a museum located in an 18th-century building that demonstrates daily Tunisian life.

You can also walk down to the beach in about half an hour. The water stays warm for most of the year!

Day trips from Tunis and other places to visit in Tunisia

If you have an extra day or two when you’re in Tunis, there are some excellent day (and overnight!) trips that you can take from the city.

I’d recommend checking out the following:

If you only visit one place in Tunisia outside of the capital, make it the UNESCO site of El Jem.

One of the largest Roman ampitheatres in the world, it reminisces the colosseum in Rome, with one main difference – there are barely any tourists.

Click here for more information about a tour to El Jem.

Sousse and Monastir

Sousse is another traditional town with a fascinating medina and archaeological museum a little further south in Tunisia.

On this day trip, you can see the highlights of the city plus visit Monastir, one of Tunisia’s previous capitals.

Click here to read more about day tripping to these two cities!

Cape Bon Peninsula

On this day trip, you’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kerkouane, the village of Nabeul which is famous for pottery and the fishing port of Kelibia.

Click here to read more.

2 day Sahara camel trekking

If you have time while in Tunisia, head out into the Sahara!

This desert has to be seen to be believed, and on this 2 day Sahara camel trekking tour, you’ll take it in at a slow pace, spending the day with Bedouin guides, eating Berber food and spending the night in a desert camp.

South Tunisia

Destinations in Southern Tunisia, like Djerba and the Star Wars filming locations in the Tozeur desert, are a little far to visit for a day or overnight trip.

However, you can easily get to the south of the country by taking louages and jumping from place to place. Or, you could hire a car and do a South Tunisia road trip !

As the country’s quite small, driving/ travel time is short; so if you have a spare few days you can easily extend your adventure and see more of the country!

Where to stay in Tunis 

We stayed at Dar Ben Gacem , which I highly recommend.

A traditional hotel with authentic North African features, this is a 17th-century property in the medina that has been lovingly restored and refurbished.

It has all the mod cons you’ll need (air conditioning, comfy beds etc) but still retains stunning historical features. The breakfast is tasty and enormous too! 

Click here to read more about it and book your stay.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay near the airport or Carthage, I also recommend MAIA Hotel Suites .

We stayed here on our first night in Tunisia, and it was a modern and comfortable room with a small kitchenette. Breakfast is included, and it’s an a la carte affair with plenty of courses!

Getting to Tunis

There are flights to Tunis from most European capitals, including London, Paris and Madrid. 

Direct flights from London take under three hours, making Tunisia the ideal getaway for a short trip!

We got a great deal with AirEuropa; they stopped in Madrid and the timings weren’t amazing – but they didn’t only cost £130 per person for a return flight! 

You can also take boats from some Mediterranean cities like Marseille (France) and Genoa (Italy). 

Most nationalities (including British) don’t need a visa but double-check before travel. 

At the time of writing, you either need to show your Covid19 vaccination passport or a negative PCR test to enter Tunisia ( click here for the most up-to-date news about this !). 

Getting from Tunis Airport to the city 

Tunis-Carthage Airport sits about 20 minutes from the city centre. There are taxis waiting outside, but in our experience, they had very hyper-inflated prices.

So I’d recommend pre-booking a taxi, either with your accommodation or on Get Your Guide.

Your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, making your arrival in Tunisia hassle-free!

Getting around Tunis

Bolt makes it easy to get around Tunis.

We couldn’t pay with a card using the app, so make sure that you have some cash on you.

If you can’t get a Bolt taxi, there are plenty of yellow taxis – but make sure you agree on a price or whether to use the meter before you get in.

Tunisia travel tips

After spending some time travelling in Tunisia, here are my best travel tips!

• Learn some French or Arabic: My AS level (for non-Brits, this is fairly advanced high school level) French did help me out a lot in Tunisia, but it was very rusty and I wish I’d known more! A lot of Tunisian people speak good English, but nearly everyone speaks fluent French (plus Arabic, of course!) so the language can help you out a lot if you’re travelling around.
• Carry cash: Many places in Tunisia are cash only, so make sure that you always have some on you (including some loose change!). You can’t take Tunisian dinars out of the country, so only withdraw what you spend. Most ATMs accept foreign cards and there are plenty of places to change USD, EUR, GBP and other currencies.
• Use public transport: Public transport in Tunisia is very efficient, and if you’re travelling from Tunis to other parts of the country, it’s pretty easy! You can read my guide to louages in Tunisia for more information (train guide coming soon too!).
• Avoid the summer season: Most locals who we met told us October, when we were visiting, was a great time of year – as the weather was warm, but it wasn’t too hot to explore! It seems that the summer season can be far too hot, and while winters are milder than in Europe, it’s not beach weather.

If you’re looking for somewhere cultural, historic and naturally beautiful to visit that’s in striking distance of Europe, Tunisia has so much on offer.

While many tourists head straight to the beaches of Sousse and Hammamet, hopefully this guide has shown you that the capital city is well worth a couple of days’ exploration as well!

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The Top Things to Do and See in Tunis

In Tunisia , ancient history is woven into the country’s fabric, from the atmospheric medina (old town) to the ruins of once-powerful Carthage. Among the African, European and Islamic heritage is a modern way of life, with bike tours, cool cafes and an annual arts festival helping make Tunis a stylish city break.

1. old medina of tunis.

Architectural Landmark

The Unesco-protected medina (old town) of Tunis has stood in this spot since 698CE, making it one of the first Arab-Muslim towns in the Maghreb. Between its crumbling buildings are a tangle of alleyways – getting lost once you pass the main entrance gate of Bab el Bhar is all part of the fun. Explore the mosques and mausoleums, embrace the chaos of the souks and take a dip into the lavish buildings of Sidi Brahim.

2. The Bardo Museum

3. la goulette.

La Goulette is the city’s port, on a sandbar between Lake Tunis and the Gulf of Tunis. It’s a rustic suburb, but its large Kasbah fortress makes it worth the trip – built by Charles I of Spain in 1535, it was captured by the Ottoman Turks in 1574. Trams run here from the city centre every 15 minutes – at weekends, you’ll see locals making the journey for lunch at La Goulette’s smattering of fish restaurants.

5. Strolling down the souks

Wandering around a souk – an Arabic market – is a multisensory experience. Smell the heaps of vividly coloured spices, taste fresh-from-the-oven makrouds (cookies made with dates and nuts) and feel silky fabrics and leather as you roam around the stalls. Grouped according to craft, the shops sell everything from jewellery and perfume to wedding dresses and rugs.

6. Cafe Culture at El Ali

Restaurant, French, Seafood, European

7. Parc du Belvédère

In the olive groves of northern Tunis, the Parc du Belvédère provides a tranquil respite from all that sightseeing. It was established in 1892 by Joseph Laforcade – the prestigious head gardener of Paris at the time – who designed the 100ha (247 acres) park in an English style, with flowerbeds, groves and lawns. You’ll also find the city zoo, which has 155 species including elephants, lions, monkeys and jackals, plus a play area for kids.

8. Carthage Archeological Site

Museum, Archaeological site

Mythical prestige lingers among the ancient ruins of Carthage, the former seat of the Carthaginian Empire, which was one of the major powers of the ancient world at its height in the fourth century CE. The Unesco Heritage Site features bathhouses, an enormous amphitheatre and crumbled villas, overlooking the Gulf of Tunis. Admission to the ruins includes entry to the Carthage Museum, where artefacts from the Carthaginian and Roman conflict are on display.

9. Tunis Medina Festival

Market, Architectural Landmark

During Ramadan, the Tunis Medina Festival lights up the capital every evening. A programme of cultural events spring up across a range of venues, so you could be watching a short film by an Arab director one night, and listening to live traditional Tunisian music the next. The festival feeling spills out into the streets, with jugglers and bands attracting crowds in the medieval setting.

10. Join a bike tour in Carthage

Sports Center

Bike tours are big business in Tunisia. Le Lemon Tour, based 15km (9.3mi) from Tunis, offers bike rentals and guided tours around the wonders of Carthage. Reach it by catching the metro from downtown Tunis and hopping off at Hannibal Salambo. A typical three-hour tour covers a distance of 32km (20mi), its 10 stops including the mosaic-filled Antonine Roman baths, Roman Villas and Byrsa Hill, from where you can take in a sensational view of Tunis.

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THE PERFECT WEEKEND IN TUNIS

04 Jun 2023   ||    TUNISIA

Most have dreamt of a weekend in Paris, but how many consider a weekend in Tunis?

Tunis, the northernmost capital of Africa, is not commonly thought of as a long weekend getaway-type destination. Initially a fourth century BC Berber settlement, Tunis is now a melting pot of cultural contrasts. With southern European and eastern influences interspersed with Maghrebi heritage, this traditional north African city is a fantastic affordable alternative to the usual European city break.

With short haul flights from all over Europe and multiple ferry routes across the Mediterranean to Tunis, this exciting city offers a whole slew of things to do, within the city and further afield as day trips. We spent a month exploring Tunisia independently and were surprised by how much there was to see! Here, we discuss things to do in the city and nearby excursions, perfect for a weekend in Tunis. Every trip we mention here can be done independently or as a guided tour.

IN THIS GUIDE //

Weekend in Tunis

Weekend in tunis map

BEST TIME TO VISIT TUNIS

IS TUNIS WALKABLE?

GETTING TO TUNIS

PLACES TO STAY FOR A WEEKEND IN TUNIS

IS TUNIS GOOD FOR A CITY BREAK?

THINGS TO DO IN TUNIS

DAY TRIPS FROM TUNIS

WITH OR WITHOUT A TOUR?

Final Thoughts – WEEKEND IN TUNIS

Weekend in Tunis map

Below is a downloadable Google map of Tunis and the surrounding region, with everything within the ‘weekend in Tunis’ itineraries marked. Yellow are day trips from Tunis and the green and blue markers are places in the city of Tunis.

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

A WEEKEND IN TUNIS - HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED?

For enough time to explore just the city itself, we would recommend 2-3 days. To check out some Roman ruins, a beach or fishing town, some mountains or less known medinas, we’d recommend extending your weekend in Tunis to around five days.

The best time to visit Tunis is during the spring and autumn months of April-June or September-November. Like much of southern Europe the city has a Mediterranean climate, so has distinct seasons. The later months in the year get a little more rain (although we had quite a lot of rain in April when we visited).

If you’re combining a weekend in Tunis with a beach trip, the summer months are a beach-lover’s dream. This season can be uncomfortably warm if you are planning on hiking, sightseeing and exploring though.

Remember to check what time of year Ramadan is. Visiting Tunisia during Ramadan is not a problem, but you will need to adjust some of your planning and expectations (especially around meals). Ramadan in 2024 is between March 10th – April 9th and in 2025 between February 28th – March 30th. 

WHO ARE THE BERBER PEOPLE?

Berber, or their contemporary name of Imazighen (meaning ‘The free’), is the term for the pre-Arab ethnic people who are indigenous to the Maghreb area of northern Africa since before 10,000 BC.

WHAT IS THE MAGHREB?

The Maghrebi region is an area of northern Africa which covers Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia and Mauritania.

IS TUNISIA EXPENSIVE TO TRAVEL?    |    ULTIMATE TUNISIA ITINERARY

Is Tunis Walkable?

It depends on where you stay for your weekend in Tunis. If staying in a dar near the Tunis medina, or a hotel in the newer French part, the central area of the city is very walkable. Further out, in the Lac area (Berges du Lac or Berges du Lac ii), you will want to use taxis, buses or a rental car to get around (don’t drive a rental car around the medina area of the city – traffic is slow). For more imformation, check out our driving in Tunisia guide.

The tourist favourites of Sidi Bou Said or La Marsa will likely require using the Tunis-Goulet-Marsa Rail Line (TGM). This 19-kilometre track is simple, super-affordable and runs until midnight.

Taxis are very inexpensive in Tunis, but make sure the drivers turn the meter on. At certain times of day, we found it very difficult to hail a taxi – there were queues of people trying to get one and it got a bit aggressive. I didn’t want to start any fights with angry Tunisian women (this nearly happened twice), so we started using the Bolt taxi app which works very well around Tunis.

Airport taxis can be a bit of a nightmare for inflated prices. If it is an issue, just walk out of the airport and hail a taxi from across the road (or catch the bus). Using Bolt, a taxi is usually less than 14 Tunisian Dinar to the medina area. 

Getting to Tunis

From Europe, most people arrive by international flight into Tunis airport. There are flights from all over the continent operated by Nouvelair, Tunis Air, Air France and many more. We flew with Nouvelair for our departure flight. They were decent and even had wine for €0.5.

Tip – if you have the time, consider a self-transfer via France. Flights from France to Tunisia are often incredibly affordable, and if flights from your home country are cheaper to France, this might save money (and get you a free weekend in France if you wanted one!). Have a look on Skyscanner or in the search box below.

Flights from Morocco to Tunisia are also available but sometimes pricey – the cheapest is usually operated by Royal Air Maroc.

There are also ferries from Italy and France – this is how we arrived. We took an 12-hour ferry from Sicily to Tunis which was affordable and comfortable. We always book with Direct Ferries – check them out for routes, costs and timings.  

FLIGHTS TO TUNISIA

We exclusively book our flights through Skyscanner . It’s the cheapest way to book flights from anywhere in the world.

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Best places to stay for a weekend in Tunis

We stayed in a few different areas of Tunis during our month trip around Tunisia and think they all have different benefits. These are some of the most popular options:

The city centre or Medina area is best if you don’t have a car and want to spend significant time exploring the old town.

The Lac area is lovely if you have a car (everywhere has parking, it’s modern, quiet, there are supermarkets and apartments with kitchens). It is also nearby the airport. This is a great area for a longer stay (this is where we spent most of our time in Tunis).

Sidi Bou Said is a picturesque, photogenic European-style village (some say Santorini-like but I’ve never been to compare). Situated atop a big hill, the accommodation often has pretty sea views and the restaurants here are open even during Ramadan. It’s not great if you have a rental car (parking is scarce and you can’t drive into the centre unless you’re a resident) but is well connected to the city by the TGM.

La Marsa is on the end of the TGM line and is an expat kind of area – it just gets posher as you head in this direction. The area has beautiful seaside views, a pretty beach and promenade but is furthest from the main city of Tunis.

⋅ Our Recommendations for a Weekend in Tunis ⋅

Our hotel recommendations for a weekend in Tunis will depend on your budget. We chose an assortment of accommodation styles during our month trip in Tunisia and found that Tunis was by far the most expensive city (from a price-to-quality ratio perspective).

We opted for a nice, homely Airbnb apartment in the Lac area, near the airport. This was extremely affordable. Airbnbs in Tunisia seem to be particularly well-priced on the face of it, but there were several we stayed at that we would not recommend to others. The apartment in Lac was decent though.

In the Lac II area, we stayed in a super nice hotel apartment in La Coreil Suites Hotel for a few nights using our points (and got an upgrade). This was amazing during Ramadan because we could cook for ourselves and had excellent free parking.

Near the Medina, we stayed in a hotel called Dar El Jeld. This was to celebrate/commiserate the last few nights of our nine-month trip and we wanted to class it up. After many personal recommendations we chose this amazing hotel – it was justifiably stunning. It is super posh, the rooftop is incredible and the whole building is so beautiful (the price reflects this though!).

One of the most budget areas in Tunis is around the train station. Here, there are some extremely affordable guesthouses that suit a backpacker budget. Again, this area would be better if you don’t have a car due to traffic and parking.

A weekend in Tunis – is it Good FOR a city Break?

Personally, we think a weekend in Tunis is a fantastic alternative to other, more expensive and popular cities on the European continent. Here’s some of the reasons why:

♦  The city is a big cultural mix of Northern Africa, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences – it’s definitely not boring.

♦  There are world-class historic sites, including a bunch of UNESCO ones, within the city and accessible as day trips from Tunis.

♦  The price point, in general, is excellent. Food, transport and activities cost very little compared to equivalent counterparts in Europe.

♦ There are many easy access points from Europe including ferries from France and Italy.

♦  Tunis is a terrific introduction to the continent of Africa. If you have never visited an Arabic or Muslim country either, Tunis is a brilliant, accessible city to experience a Muslim-majority culture and learn more about Arabic people, cuisine and language.

♦  It has a lovely Mediterranean climate, with daytime temperatures even in the winter months still averaging in the mid-teens.

♦  If alcohol is something you’d want on your weekend away, then don’t worry. Although Tunisia is a Muslim country, alcohol is widely available. Tunisia actually manufactures wine, beer and spirits!

A WEEKEND IN TUNIS - THINGS TO DO

Within the city of Tunis, there are at least two days of things to see and do.

⋅ A Weekend in Tunis - Day 1 ⋅

Day 1 involves a visit to the famous Tunis Medina area and the adjacent new town (or Ville Nouvelle), centred around the wide, tree-lined boulevard of Avenue Habib Bourguiba. A day (or two if you are not in a rush) will allow time to explore both areas (this will mainly involve a whole bunch of wandering about).

If you were to fit in everything below, it would result in a very long day! However, as the Bardo Museum is currently closed, a day would be adequate.

National Bardo Museum

An object of national pride, this beautiful collection traces thousands of years of Tunisian history. It is one of the most important museums in Africa, second only to the Egyptian Museum of Cairo. With its palatial setting, the museum is worth a visit purely for the architecture alone. One of the more prominent displays are the Roman mosaics, one of the largest ever assembled (including pieces from Carthage, Utique and Dougga).

Currently, the Bardo Museum is closed, and has been since July 2021 when the Tunisian parliament was frozen (parliament shares the same building as the museum). If it re-opens before you visit (I really hope it does) don’t miss it.

Ville Nouvelle or Centre Ville

There are several prominent sites to check out in the new town of Tunis, including the Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul (it was surrounded by army tanks and security when we were there). The striking brutalist architecture of the Hotel du Lac is a fascination for many visitors to Tunis. Located at the Medina end of Avenue Habib Bouguiba, near the big roundabout, this odd building is currently unused and in disrepair. It’s been slated for demolition for some years now, but that has yet to transpire.

The Medina of Tunis

A UNESCO site since 1979, the 7th century medieval quarter of Tunis is home to a sprawling maze of winding, covered alleys. It’s quite similar to other medinas, only more expansive, exceptionally busy and more chaotic, which is unsurprising since it houses about a tenth of the population of Tunis!

The crowds dissipate as you wander further away from the main thoroughfares, providing a window into the (often) traditional artisans and practices that endure in the souqs. Where there are less people, look for the little details; doorways, steps, windows – many have a story to tell.

Being honest, we did find this quarter of Tunis tiring. The vendors can be aggressive and it can be uncomfortably busy, so wander as far from the crowds as possible for a change of pace.

Suggestion : we stayed at Dar El Jeld on the edge of the medina and loved it, but even if you don’t stay there, you can visit their rooftop bar for drinks (and food). The wine is shockingly reasonably priced. We recommend it for the service and views – go at sunset!

Ez-Zitauna (Al-Zaytuna) Mosque

Also known as the Mosque of the Olive Tree (literally translated as Mosque of Olive), this prayer centre is a highlight within the Medina of Tunis. Founded around the 8th century, it is the second oldest mosque in Africa (behind the Great Mosque of Kairouan). The building was constructed with 160 Roman columns, originally from the ancient city of Carthage.

Although non-Muslims are not allowed in the prayer hall, it is still worth a visit to the site to witness the superb structural design.

⋅ A Weekend in Tunis - Day 2 ⋅

Today, explore the outskirts of Tunis on the TGM train that runs through La Goulette, the ruins of Carthage and up to Sidi Bou Said and La Marsa (or you can take a taxi).

The Beginning and the End of the Line

La Goulette is the first stop on the train line. This small local coastal community, adjacent to the port, is a good stop for lunch or dinner. There are loads of decent, affordable seafood restaurants and some nice vibes along the seafront. If you’re looking for a good beach though, check out some of the later stops instead. 

Affluent La Marsa is the last stop on the TGM. Its popular corniche is a great place to finish the day (or start it). Grab a coffee and some couscous or shakshuka and crack on with a bit of people-watching.

We have no decent restaurant recommendations for either of these stops because it was Ramadan when we visited!

The next six train stops all service various parts of the ancient city of Carthage. We’d recommend getting off the train at Carthage Hannibal and first taking the ten-minute walk up to Byrsa Hill. This has the nicest views in the area and hosts the Carthage National Museum. From here, you can buy a multi-entrance ticket (12 TND) that gets you into all the Carthage sites (they are pretty spread out).

We walked through the ruins until we finally reached Sidi Bou Said. It was a fair distance, but the weather was lovely and everything was really quiet due to Ramadan. However, you can hop back on the train and head to the next stop, rent a car for the day or hire a guide if you want to avoid walking a million steps! Parking for Carthage is easy, but visiting Sidi Bou Said with a car is more awkward.

Truthfully, Carthage is the least impressive Roman ruin we visited in Tunisia. The setting in an affluent area of Tunis, overlooking the sea is impressive, however, it didn’t even come close to a site like Dougga. We figure everyone is going to check it out anyway, so included it on our itinerary, plus the surroundings are lovely. If you want to swap a trip to Carthage with a different Roman ruin, our favourite Roman sites were El Jem and Dougga.

Sidi Bou Said

Sidi Bou Said is a tourist favourite. With blue accents complementing the pretty, white-washed buildings, this cliffside suburb of Tunis overlooks the Mediterranean providing a calm that perfectly counters the frantic Tunis centre. Along the cobbled streets are small cafes and restaurants, souvenir vendors and galleries, all perfectly placed to lure tourists in. Apparently, it is illegal to paint your house any other colour but blue! (We saw a red door there though).

The train station is at the bottom of a reasonably steep, cobbled hill, so don’t wear heels! There are souvenirs everywhere but be careful – as much as you’ll read about handcrafted gifts and unique items, most of it is still mass-produced. We wouldn’t recommend the main street in Sidi Bou Said if you are after something genuinely Tunisian!

Honest opinion – we loved how visually stunning Sidi Bou Said was, but that’s as far as our enthusiasm stretched. While we were mostly approached by very friendly people, a man with a captive tied bird, restrained for tourist photos, really bothered us. We also just felt like hanging out in a place saturated with ‘made in China’ souvenirs wasn’t exactly our thing. We’d recommend visiting, but don’t go expecting any kind of ‘authentic’ experience.

A Weekend in Tunis - Day Trips

As well as sites within Tunis, there are lots of options for day excursions to get a peek into the Tunisia that exists outside of the capital. Here are all the places we recommend, with suggestions for combining several sites in one day. Each location has the choice of self-driving , public transport or tour (some places might be a bit tight with public transport and would necessitate an overnight stay).

CAR HIRE FOR YOUR WEEKEND IN TUNIS

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 .

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⋅ Hammamet (1 hour, 66 kilometres) ⋅

For a quick beach hangout, or maybe just wanting to experience another Tunisian town, consider visiting Hammamet. It’s pretty, timelessly charming and everything you’re likely to expect from a beachfront town in Tunisia.

Along with the legendary beaches, the city also has a giant Hispano-Turkish fort, a typical winding medina and a huge Islamic cemetery.

We spent a night in an Airbnb here and it was a nice change of pace. However, we would be remiss to mention that during Ramadan and in the off-season, it’s a bit like a ghost town. Apparently, in the summer months, it’s a very lively and fashionable place to hang out!

Best combined with:  Zaghouan (for hiking), Thuburbo Majus or Uthina (for Roman ruins)

⋅ Bizerte (1 hour, 71 kilometres) ⋅

The colourful, picturesque harbour town of Bizerte is the northernmost city in Africa. It’s a small, walled, atmospheric place with some lovely vibrant buildings and street art. Just on the outskirts sit some superb empty coastline (well away from the typical tourist itineraries!).

When we visited, there was also a cool street market on (we drove over some onions by accident after we got our car stuck in there following someone else). As always in Tunisia, the city has a cool little medina worth taking a stroll through.

Something we noted was that drivers became astonishingly aggressive as we drove towards Bizerte.

Also, we wanted to see the boat wrecks on the coast to the east of the city called ‘wreck of Ydra’ but it was sketchy weather when we visited (and it’s easier with a high clearance car). We would recommend checking them out if it’s your kind of jam. Along with this, there is Ichkeul National Park, which contains a freshwater lake, famous for migratory bird watching.

⋅ Sousse/Monastir (2 hours, 148 kilometres) ⋅

Sousse, traditionally a beachside resort town, hides one of our favourite attractions in Tunisia, the UNESCO designated Medina of Sousse . This was our favourite of all the medinas we visited, with shadowy little alleys and lovely, friendly people (zero hassle here). It also had very little in the way of tourist tat.

The resort region of Sousse left us with little to be enthusiastic about, to be honest (I think Nick described the area as a bit desolate like he imagined Pripyat to be). For a beach holiday though, I’m told it’s one of the best.

Only 21 kilometres away is the pretty town of Monastir, which is definitely worth a visit if you are in Sousse. Outside of the city there is a resort area with sandy beaches for a night by the sea. The centre has the impressive Ribat of Monastir, a defensive structure that looms over the town and the attractive promenade.

Best combined with: El Jem (roman ruin), Kairouan (ancient Islamic city)

⋅ Kairouan (2 hours, 160 kilometres) ⋅

The UNESCO designated Islamic holy city of Kairouan was one of the best stops on our road trip through Tunisia. Renowned for its Great Mosque, described by UNESCO as a ‘universal architectural masterpiece’, this revered city has been a major centre of Islamic study for well over a thousand years and is the ancient heart of Islam in the Maghreb. As one of the oldest sites of Islamic worship in the world, the mosque alone is well worth a trip.

There is also the dusty, atmospheric medina, which consists of, in traditional Tunisian style, alleys and small stalls. It is also a well-known place for handmade Tunisian carpets. 

Best combined with: Sousse/Monastir (beaches and medinas), El Jem (roman ruins)

⋅ Dougga/Bulla Regia (110 kilometres/157 kilometres, both two hours) ⋅

Dougga and Bulla Regia are some of the premier Roman archaeological sites in Tunisia, situated west of Tunis.

We didn’t visit Bulla Regia due to some horrendous weather, but we heard enough good things about it that we are happy to recommend it to anyone looking at a trip to Tunisia.

We did visit the Roman site of Dougga, which was one of the best archaeological sites we have ever visited. It is set atop a hill, with panoramic views across the speckled olive tree fields, and almost no tourists. We absolutely loved our time here.

These sites are reasonably far from Tunis and as such, would be tiring (but doable) to fit both into a single day trip by self-driving. It is feasible to see both in one day as part of a tour (we know people who did this during a weekend in Tunis).

They are also a good combination to pair with a longer overnight trip to El Kef or Ayn Darahim. 

⋅ El Jem (2.5 hours, 205 kilometres) ⋅

If you enjoyed the Colosseum at Rome, but not the crowds that came with it, this place is a real treat! This amphitheatre is truly spectacular with access all the way around the top with expansive views that stretch across the entirety of the city. 

It’s pretty far from Tunis, so usually we wouldn’t suggest it as a day trip, but people seem to day trip here all the time during a weekend in Tunis!

Best combined with: Kairouan or Sousse/Monastir. Also, as a longer journey if spending a night in Sfax.

⋅ Other Ruins – Thuburbo Majus, Utique, Uthina (61, 36, 27 kilometres) ⋅

There are so many Roman archaeological ruins in Tunisia! Thuburbo Majus, Utique and Uthina are close to Tunis and we would recommend them to any history buffs out there for a weekend in Tunis.

Each of these sites is pretty wild, partially restored, with zero tourists (for us anyway) and a nominal entry fee of 8 TND each. They’re not large and won’t take a whole day to explore. Often, sheep herders were wandering their flocks throughout the sites (watching livestock wander around an ancient amphitheatre felt peculiar).

We liked Uthina . Visiting late in the day meant the light made the place feel kind of ethereal and otherworldly. The facilities there are also super-modern, with lots of information and the site has phenomenal views.

Thuburbo Majus was the least developed of the three and was still heavily under restoration (during Ramadan only a few guys were working).  There was some signage with names, but mostly you had to settle with your imagination. There were some very ornate pillars, lots of half constructed buildings and some large mosaics. Like Uthina, this site has substantial views and we really enjoyed it, despite the lack of information. Places like this have a kind of majesty, especially if you get to explore them in solitude.

If you must choose, Utique was our least favourite; there was quite an annoying caretaker harassing us for tips and the ruins were the least interesting. However, it had really well-preserved Roman mosaics of fish and a creepy skeletal remains of a child.

⋅ Zaghouan (1 hour, 58 kilometres) ⋅

Zaghouan is one for the outdoor lovers. The small town of Zaghouan is situated at the base of the Dorsale mountains and below eastern Tunisia’s tallest peak, Djebel Zaghouan, which stands at 1295 metres. This makes for a great strenuous hike for anyone fancying a challenge. Set in a national park, this region is also home to Temple des Eaux (Temple of Water), a roman archaeological site consisting of an aqueduct which originally provided water for Carthage.

Best combined with: Sousse/Monastir, Hammamet (beaches)

TUNIS Day TRIPS WITH OR WITHOUT A TOUR?

We’ve suggested day trip options here, however every one of these trips in Tunisia we did with a self-drive rental car . The country is easy to get around and self-driving provides more flexibility, however with little time, tours may be a more suitable option.

For any prebooked tours, we use Get Your Guide – check them out for all the places listed above. There are affordable tour options, especially designed for shorter trips.

FINAL THOUGHTS - WEEKEND IN TUNIS

Tunis is a top-notch weekend getaway destination. If you’re sat Googling the next interesting place to visit in Europe, why not go that bit further and visit Tunisia? We spent a little over a week in Tunis during our month there and loved the city and the day trips from the city even more!

The country of Tunisia, in general, is little visited by tourists but this destination will not remain unknown forever. We thoroughly recommend a visit to check it out for yourself.

We hope you have an amazing trip!

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The Perfect 14 Days Itinerary for Tunisia

Tunisia is a fantastic destination and if you’re looking for an itinerary to follow, you came to the right place!

While many visit Morocco and Egypt, somehow Tunisia remains less explored.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

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

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

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

We’ve spent three weeks in Tunisia travelling independently and decided to write this perfect 14-day itinerary for Tunisia. But don’t worry, we have some suggestions if you wish to stay longer or shorter.

The country has so much to offer: gorgeous beaches, Mediterranean towns, exceptional Roman Ruins, islands, Star Wars Movie sets, the Sahara desert, great food, honest and friendly people, and great infrastructure, so getting from A to B is easy. 

We travelled to Tunisia in late November and early December 2021. The prices quoted in this itinerary for Tunisia are in local currency, Tunisian Dinar (TND).

At the time 1 USD = 2.9 TND

Let’s go! The Perfect 14 Days Itinerary for Tunisia

Table of Contents

DAY 1: TUNIS 

The capital city of Tunisia is a bustling city that combines modern and traditional. The best place to stay on your first visit is the medina so you can explore it. You can choose to stay in the new city at the end of your trip. 

The Tunis Medina dates from the 7th century when it was built around the Zitouna Mosque.

Don’t miss the souks, especially on Friday/Saturday mornings. And, if you’re after some great views, then head up to the Cafe Panorama  and enjoy a coffee or tea while you’re there.

And for a delicious lunch in the medina, stop by Restaurant The Ben Arous. You could spend a lot of time strolling through the maze of the medina with incredible doors and shops.

Read our post on the top 5 experiences of Tunis Medina.

Another highlight is the Bardo Museum, Africa’s second-biggest museum.

The museum also boasts one of the world’s most exquisite Roman mosaic collections. Definitely add this to your itinerary for Tunisia if you are an art lover. It’s closed on Monday.

Where to stay in Tunis

Budget : Dar Ya – A great budget option in the heart of Medina. Rooms are clean and comfortable, yet only shared bathroom facilities are available. Breakfast is included in the price. The staff is very welcoming and helpful in providing local knowledge to explore Tunis and the surrounding area.

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

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

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

DAY 2: TUNIS – CARTHAGE – SIDI BOU SAID

Spend the morning walking across the medina and catch the metro to Carthage (ticket is approx 0.700TND ($0.25).

This is the ancient city that once ruled a huge empire across the Mediterranean The entry ticket of 12 TND ($4.20) will get you into multiple sites.

I recommend starting at Antonine Baths and walking from there to the Roman Villas (amazing mosaics), checking out the Theatre next door, and walking up to Byrsa hill with some epic views and museums.

There are other archeological sites in Tunisia, but this one should be on anyone’s itinerary for Tunisia as it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

From Carthage grab a BOLT (ride-sharing app) to get to Sidi Bou Said. This picturesque seaside town is famous for its white and blue architecture (very Greece-like), make sure you explore the small side streets where you lose the crowds.

There is a famous place on the main street, Rue Hédi Zarrouk to get a hot  bambalouni  (Tunisian hot doughnut).

It’s a blue, hole-in-the-wall stand and you can smell sugar as you approach it. You can’t miss it.

 It’s the perfect place for an afternoon stroll or stays for sunset @Cafe Des Delices.

DAY 3: TUNIS TO SOUSSE 

Distance: 147 km (1 hour 50 mins journey time in car)

This morning head to the Louage Station Moncef Bey to catch a louage to Sousse (11.9 TND or $4.20). This 14-day itinerary for Tunisia is based on using public transport – for us, louage was the fastest option.

LOUAGE is essentially a shared taxi, a van that fits 8 passengers, and once full it departs from the station for the destination. More about that further below.

(You could also head to Monastir directly and spend the night there at Marina Cap Appart Hotel , explore the town, and then return to Sousse the next day).

It’s only a 15 min louage ride away, a ticket is 2.25 TND and they depart regularly.

Sousse can feel pretty touristy at times but the medina is nice although it mostly feels like a market. The Ribat (fortress) is worth visiting and you can stroll down to the beach. You might choose to stay in the medina.

We stayed at Hotel Paris, a comfortable budget option located in the medina.

For breakfast get some coffee from Beanery Cafe and pastries from the amazing french bakery just around the corner (across the entrance to the Institute of Arts) and have lunch at Restaurant du Peuple – an amazing set lunch menu not to be missed.

You can also choose to stay at one of the nice resorts along the beach in Sousse. I recommend either the  Sousse Pearl Marriott Resort or Mövenpick Resort & Marine Spa .

DAY 4: DAY TRIP TO MONASTIR AND EL JEM

Distance: Sousse to Monastir 22 km (25-30 mins journey time in car)

Distance: Monastir to El Jem 73km (1 hour journey time in car)

Only 30 minutes away Monastir is an easy day trip from Sousse (ticket for louage is 2.25 TND). We actually spent a few nights here as we got a great deal at the marina, staying at Marina Cap Appart Hotel.  It was a nice place to chill for a few days.

You can walk from the station to the Ribat which is well restored. Across from the ribat is the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba containing the remains of former president Habib Bourguiba, the father of Tunisian independence and the former president.

Don’t miss the picturesque marina only a short walk from the Ribat. 

Afternoon in El Jem

Catch a louage back to Sousse and head down to El Jem. The louage ticket is 5.9 TND from Sousse to El Jem, allowing one hour journey time.

This was one of our absolute highlights of Tunisia – an ancient amphitheatre built by the Romans in 238AD. This is the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in Africa and it was designed to seat 35,000 people. This must be on anyone’s itinerary for Tunisia.

Entry is 12 TND each and be ready to be blown away!

For more detailed information and tips, read our post about how to get to El Jem in Tunisia  using local transport.

DAY 5: SOUSSE TO TATAOUINE

Distance:  405 km (5 hours 30 mins journey time in car)

A travel day to the south. Take a louage from Sousse to Medenine first. The price is 23.5 TND ($8.20), journey time is about 5.5 hours, including two brief bathroom stops and a 25 min stop for lunch.

Change to a different louage at Medenine station heading to Tataouine. The ticket is 3.65 TND ($1.30), journey time is 45 minutes. 

Don’t miss the patisseries in Tataouine that have the special: Cornes de Gazzelle (crescent-shaped cookies filled with almond filling then fried in oil and soaked in honey)

Overnight at Auberge Alferdaous , a good budget option located in the centre of Tataouine .

The owner is a great guy, has fantastic English, and can give you some good tips for exploring the area.

DAY 6: VISIT KSAR OULED AND MOVE TO CHENINI

Distance: Tataouine to Chenini 18 km (25 mins journey time in car)

Grab a cheap and easy breakfast in a bakery and head out (best to grab a taxi for 20 TND) to Ksar Ouled.

Alternatively, you can take louage for around 2.5 TND each, but it does take time to fill up with passengers here. However, if you have the time, it’s a cheap option.

This 15th-century granary is not to be missed. Not only because it was a set from Star Wars movies, but because it’s truly stunning.

You probably won’t need more than an hour here so it’s worth asking the taxi to wait or you can catch a louage back to Tataouine.

Grab lunch in Tataouine (I recommend Restaurant Sindbad for a good lunch menu) and then head out to Chenini.

It’s only about 20 minutes ride and the scenery is spectacular. We have stayed at Residence Kenza for another unique stay – in a cave. It was really cosy and had incredible views.

Chenini is a small village, part of it is an abandoned Berber stone village that you can stroll through on top of the hill.

There is a mosque on top of the hill and don’t miss the sunset or sunrise over the valley.

DAY 7: CHENINI TO DJERBA

Distance: 143 km (2 hours journey time in car)

Breakfast in Chenini, and then walk down the hill to catch a louage to Tataouine again. From here there are direct vans to Djerba.

The journey to Djerba was actually really quick and we had time to grab lunch once we arrived in Djerba near the louage station – Restaurant Central Djerba .

We took a taxi after a wonderful lunch of chicken and couscous (highly recommended) to our accommodation and checked in to enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

We treated ourselves in Djerba and found fantastic online rates (during late November) with Booking.com at Ulysse Palace Djerba Resort.  

The resort is located approximately 9km from the centre of Djerba, however, private taxis are very affordable. We paid just a few dollars from Djerba directly to our resort (all taxis are metered).

If you’re looking for a good budget option in the heart of Djerba, I recommend Hôtel Olympic Djerba.

DAY 8: DJERBA ISLAND

Djerba is a really popular summer destination if you arrive during the summer or shoulder season.

As we visited in the cooler months, the old medina in Houmt Souk was so nice to walk around. Check out the souks, street art, maybe have a coffee in the trendy El Fondouk .

Don’t miss out on Djerbhood (street art event) and El Ghriba Synagogue. 

If you have a few more days to play with, you can extend your time here.

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DAY 9: DJERBA TO MATMATA (STAY IN STAR WARS HOTEL)

Distance: 130 km (2 hours 45 mins journey time in car – allow time to change transport at stations)

From Djerba, you can head back north or if you only had 9-10 days you could simply fly out of Djerba as there are direct flights to France and Germany.

So you could alter your itinerary for Tunisia and fly from here. We always find the most competitive prices for flights using Skyscanner .

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Getting north is easy. Once again catch the louage to Gabes and from there we took two vans to the small town of Matmata.

This place is known for troglodytes – houses that were built completely underground to keep cool during hot summers and warm in winter.

One of them, Hotel Sidriss has been turned into a hotel after it was used as the film set for Star Wars Episode 4 movie. 

The hotel is very basic with shared bathrooms, but if you are a Star Wars fan it’s really cool to stay here. You can also just come in for a visit.

They charge 3 TND (1 euro) per person to come inside and explore.

DAY 10: MATMATA TO TOZEUR

Distance: 215 km (3 hours 30 mins journey time in car – allow for time changing transport at station)

Another big day on the road, but plenty of scenery. You will need to change transport (Matmata Nouvelle a v Gabes).

Tozeur is a town surrounded by the Tunisian desert and it has a really unique feel. There are dates palms everywhere and the best dates come from here so make sure you buy some.

They’re incredibly affordable, only a couple of euros for 1kg.

The town architecture is another reason why Tozeur is so special, most buildings are decorated with small bricks, and especially the medina is a beautiful place to stroll through.

Today you should book your day trip for the next day – we booked it at the agency   Au Coeur Du Desert  across from our hotel,  Residence El Arich .

The price quoted for a private 4WD with an English-speaking driver/guide for the day was 250 TND ($87).

The car can fit a maximum of 7 passengers, so if you have a group of people/friends to share the cost, it would considerably reduce the price per person.

We were happy to take the day trip with just the two of us and our driver/guide.

DAY 11: TOZEUR Day trip to Chebika – Tamerza – Mides – Ong Jmel 

You can choose a half-day or full-day tour from Tozeur. We chose the full day one.

It included a stop at Chebika Oasis, where you visit an old village and walk down through the wadi and see the waterfall that brings life to this part of the desert.

Next is Tarmeza, another oasis village, and the gorgeous canyon at Mides. You stop for lunch and continue across the desert for some dune bashing in your 4WD to reach Mos Espa (Ong Jemel).

Travel to the Mos Espa film site, beautifully located amongst the Sahara dunes. Here, find the Pod-racing arena, the Mos Espa streets, Watto’s shop, the market, and Sebulba’s Café. Return to Tozeur at the end.

DAY 12: TOZEUR TO KAIROUAN

Distance: 295 km (4 hours 30 mins journey time in car)

Take a louage to Kairouan this morning, one of the holiest places of Islam in Tunisia and it was the first capital of the Maghreb.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it conceals several marvels, but the medina and the Great Mosque are not to be missed.

Overnight: The budget option is to stay at  Chema chaabani.  

I’d recommend a very comfortable stay at Hotel Continenta l if you can afford to spend a little more.

Get Connected with eSIM

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DAY 13: KAIROUAN TO TUNIS

Distance: 165 km (2 hours 20 mins journey time in car)

Spend the morning exploring Kairouan and depart to Tunis later on. Once you arrive in the capital, you can visit the medina or head to the Bardo museum – whatever you didn’t get to do in Tunis last time.

A suggestion for a comfortable, newly renovated business hotel in central Tunis is Golf Royal Hotel .

We stayed here for our final few nights in Tunis and highly recommend it. Good prices, comfortable beds, fantastic breakfast, and great service.

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

DAY 14: TUNIS DEPARTURE DAY

Your itinerary for Tunisia ends in the capital. There is always plenty to do, see or eat in Tunis, depending on when your flight is.

Grab BOLT to the airport instead of a taxi, it will probably cost around 10-12 TND. 

Travel Insurance for Tunisia

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

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

Things to know before you travel to Tunisia

• Language: The official language is Arabic and French and English is not as common. Many people in the tourism industry speak Spanish and German as well. 
• Cafes are often highly men-dominated. You can look for Salon du The for cafes that are more mixed and usually nicer.
• Food in Tunisia is amazing. Don’t miss our post about the 8 most popular Tunisian street foods to try while you’re here.
• Download the BOLT App before you arrive (or when you’re here). It will save you time and money. If your French or Arabic language skills are non-existent, this app will help you to get from A to B without any hassle.
• Always keep loose change and coins handy for paying for taxis, bottled water, or street food snacks.
• Internet connection isn’t great in Tunisia. I’d recommend picking up a SIM Card for your phone with one of the phone providers at the airport. There are several to choose from. I got an Orange SIM Card for free, then topped it up with 10GB for 20 TND (USD $7). You can get 2GB for 10 TND also, but if you’re travelling on my suggested itinerary for Tunisia, I’d recommend buying the larger package. Alternatively, the most convenient and affordable way to get connected in Tunisia is to buy this Tunisia eSIM Data Pack online.
• Keep any foreign currency receipts or ATM currency withdrawal receipts on you. At the end of your trip to Tunisia, ensure you convert all of your Tunisian Dinar to Euros/USD before you depart. Tunisian Dinars are impossible to exchange once you’ve departed the country. If you exchange currency at the airport before your departure, you may be asked for the receipt proving where you got the cash initially.
• Download Maps.me App on your phone, it’s a very useful offline map for Tunisia. I’d also recommend downloading an offline map of Tunisia on Google Maps as a backup to access maps if you cannot get online.
• Download Arabic and French in your Google Translate App. You never know when you may need to use it.
• To book any day trips or short multi-trips in Tunisia, we recommend Viator .

We recommend you read our  10 best tips for independent travellers to Tunisia  when planning your trip. These are essential things to know that will make your travels here much smoother.

Our post explaining  8 of the best street eats in Tunisia  cannot be missed!

Travel Tips for Africa

We have many travel guides and tips for Africa – what a massive continent!

Have you ever wondered how many countries in Africa there are? 54 or 55?  We cover them in depth in our ultimate Africa bucket list.

There is some delicious cuisine to be enjoyed across Africa, and these ten best African countries for food will inspire your food journey.

Check out how many of these 15 most popular foods you can taste.

If you’re wondering what they eat for breakfast in Africa, check out these  20 popular breakfast foods.

For food lovers, our  Food Map of AFRICA lists the quintessential dish you need to eat in every nation!

It’s worth reading these  17 ESSENTIAL Things to know before travelling to West Africa , and our packing list for Africa may be helpful to you.

Don’t miss our  recap of our travels across West Africa for even more helpful tips, and try these popular West African dishes ; they’re fantastic!

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Africa. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable.  View eSIMs for individual countries in Africa, or consider a regional eSIM for Africa (which covers 36 countries)

If your travels in Africa are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries, offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text Global eSIM. This eSIM has been a game-changer for us, and we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. View the  best deals on group tours in Africa .

Finally, check out our travel resources page for the best websites, tools and products we use to travel the world.

View the travel gear we use on the road, and don’t miss our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience. 

Travel Planning Resources

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

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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14 comments . leave new.

thank you for sharing your trip to Tunisia it was definitely helpful.

Thank you, we’re really happy you found value in our post. Happy Travels!

Hi both I stumbled across this page while searching for info and tips on our upcoming trip to Tunisia in 2 months time This itinerary looks spot on, and touches all the things I wanted to see. We just decided to go louage rather than car rental, despite travelling with childre. One thing that I think would bring this page onto a completely new level of usefulness would be having rough estimates of times and costs involved in all the city to city trips: it’s great knowing that you can do Tozeur to Matmata (or the other way round) by louage, but it would even better to know roughly if it’s 2hr, 4hr, 6 hr, etc.. just to plan the itinerary! Anyway, thanks for all the tips and info, really great job!! Giovanni

Thanks for your feedback Giovanni, well noted. We hope you have a fantastic time in Tunisia 😉

Following up on my previous comment, can you remember how long it took you from Kairouan to Tunis (assuming by louage)? we plan to do it the other way round, but distances and times should be the same! thanks Giovanni

Yes, we took a louage taxi and the journey took about 2 hours. It was direct and they drive pretty fast on those roads.

Thanks for this info!! It was really helpful X About how much would you recommend to budget for a 9day trip (very roughly lol) ? Thanks Riya

Based on our trip, we roughly spent around 30 USD per night on accommodation (clean, comfortable rooms in good locations). Food is very affordable, so you can eat street food and great French pastries with coffee for only a dollar or two. It’s easy to find some great sit-down lunches and dinners for around $3.50 – 4.00 pp for a huge couscous with chicken/veg. Transport and getting around is affordable too, if you use Bolt app for short rides and louage (shared taxi) between cities and longer drives.

Roughly, we spent between USD $40-70 per day in total, and we’re two people. So yes, Tunisia can be a very affordable place to travel if you need to stick to a budget. Hope that helps 🙂

These two blogs I wrote below may be quite useful if you’re planning to travel to Tunisa.

– https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/10-best-tips-for-travel-in-tunisia/ – https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/street-food-tunisia-8-most-popular-eats/

Hello, thanks for your blog. I wanted yo ask you if the visits around Tozeur (oasis, canyon, mos espa) can be fone by our own means. With a normal car?

A second question is if djerba in winter for 2 days and 1 night is a place that we shall not miss. I am asking as it is relatively far.

Hi Carlos, I think you could do some self-driving in Tozeur with a normal car, but there are parts you need 4WD (I remember driving on sand when visiting oasis, the Star Wars city etc). As for Djerba, it will probably be quiet and cooler in winter, so might be worth to skip it. Hope that helps. 🙂

Hello, thanks for sharing the tips in your blog! I am travelling to Tunisia soon, and would like to ask if it’s possible to travel to Tatatouine straight after visiting El Jem? Would there be louages from Sousse to Tatatouine say 12pm onwards? By any chance do you know the opening hrs for louages?

We can’t answer for sure whether there would be louage from El Jem or Sousse to Tatouine around that time, but we imagine so. Sousse is a very busy hub or louage station for shared taxis going in all directions..and remember that the cars depart once they fill all seats. This is the primary way that all people move around in Tunisia. And, if you don’t have a car going all the way, perhaps there might be a car going to the city of Gabes, and then you could continue the next morning. Happy travels 🙂

Hello, I went through your blog and it was pretty detailed. I absolutely loved it. Just wanted to ask you if it’s possible to cover Djerba-Matmata-Tozuer in one day? Like starting from Djerba quite early, going to Matmata just to see the troglodytes up close and then head over to Tozeur for the night stay? I know it sounds very hectic, but we are very short of time. I was hoping it can be possible. We’ll not have any car with us, we are solely depending on public transport systems, preferably the louages. Thanks in advance!

Hi Shalini,

Yes, this journey would be possible – as you mentioned, you must get an early start to this day from Djerba. And, if you’re hoping to do a tour around Tozeur the following day (if you’re short on time), it may be an idea to book it online and get a confirmed trip (some suggestions in our blog to do this), or possibly call ahead and see if your hotel can arrange a guide/driver for you.

Happy Travels! This is such a fascinating area of Tunisia to explore 😉

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Five best day trips from Tunis

Aug 28, 2018 • 8 min read

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

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

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

Best day trip for history and culture: Dougga and Testour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best day trip for shopping: Nabeul, Hammamet and Takrouna

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

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

Make it happen

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

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How to Get Around in Tunisia: The ULTIMATE Traveler’s Guide

Hello and welcome to Tunisia! We’re Andy and Abi.

As expats living and working in Tunisia for about 3 years (as of Summer 2020), we can testify that Tunisia has a WEALTH of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences to discover and enjoy.

But, unless you have a guide that is going to hold during your hand during the whole trip, you will need to make some decisions about HOW you will get around to see all these cool places.  

Once your plane lands or your ferry docks in Tunisia, you have a wide range of transportation options to choose from. We’ve done our best in this post to give you an overview of them all, as well as some general info that we would share with any friend who is going to be traveling around the country without a guide.

One of the coolest things about traveling in Tunisia is its ACCESSIBILITY. You can get just anywhere in the country within a day.

There’s also a range of options for getting around. From renting a luxury car, to squeezing into a speeding louage van next to a Tunisian family—you can have your choice of how you want to get around.  

Abi and I like to be adventurous and do things the way Tunisians do when possible. So, we’ve given a lot of space in this post to some of the more off-the-beaten-track options, which foreigners typically don’t use as much. If you want an immersive cultural experience, or if you just want to save some money, we highly recommend trying out some of these options.

Happy trip planning!  

Navigation   

Having good navigation is important no matter where you are in Tunisia because important destinations and landmarks are not always well marked, even in the capital city.

Signage can be confusing, and it’s often non-existent. The roads that connect larger towns can be surprisingly desolate and under-repaired, making you wonder if you have gotten lost.  

It’s hard to ask for directions if you don’t speak French or Arabic. You can bring along paper maps, but road construction can quickly make those obsolete. If you rent a car, there’s usually an option to have a GPS. Still, our favorite option is Google Maps.  

Google Maps works pretty well in Tunisia… except when it doesn’t. There have been some occasions it wants to place us on an undriveable road or take us into an area that is packed with people and would be difficult to get a vehicle through. Maps does not have common sense and it doesn’t always know which streets are one-way. 

Still, the Google Maps app functions pretty well in Tunisia, as long as you have data on your phone, and as long as you can get 3G or 4G where you are. You can use 4G pretty reliably in the cities. It is not reliable in many other places, though. 

When you travel between cities or visit small towns or remote places, you should download the relevant areas on Google Maps for offline use. There are plenty of good tutorials online for how to do this.   

Safety   

Pickpocketing does happen a lot on crowded, shared transportation like the train or metro. Other than that, public transportation in Tunisia is pretty safe.  

Women visiting Tunisia may understandably be reluctant to get in a taxi alone or at night. One safety measure that we have used before is to use a location tracking app like Find My Friend or Life 360, just to have some extra peace of mind. Someone can keep an eye on your GPS location this way.   

Safety is such an important topic for traveling in Tunisia. We wrote two long posts that you should check out. First, How Safe is Tunisia for Tourists? Women? and secondly, How to Have a Safe Vacation in Tunisia .

Renting a Car   

If you want maximal freedom to go where you please, and you’re not afraid to share the road with Tunisians, renting a car is your best bet. It is a wonderful feeling to be able to go anywhere in the country within less than a day!

If you’re going to rent a car in Tunisia, check out our post where we warn you about the exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking experience of sharing the road with Tunisian drivers: 19 Tips for Driving in Tunisia .

There are many car rental stores around town. You can find one in almost any neighborhood. There are also many car rental places located in the airport.

You can also make a reservation for a vehicle online before your trip. Most of the car rentals are manual transmission, but there are some automatic transmission cars. If you need an automatic, I would suggest making an online reservation before arriving and be prepared to pay quite a bit more than you would for manual.  

You will also want to familiarize yourself with European road signs. Most signs are written in both Arabic and French. If you want more detailed information about car rental, we wrote a whole post about How to Rent a Car in Tunisia that you should check out.  

Paying for Public Transportation  

You will need to use Tunisian Dinars to pay for public transportation. Even the most central train and bus stations do not accept card payments yet. We wrote a post about using Debit Cards in Tunisia , which explains how to use the ATMs. Don’t worry—dealing with Tunisian currency is pretty easy.  

Having correct change is helpful. If you withdraw money from an ATM, you’ll likely get 20’s and maybe 10’s. Buy something small at a hanoot (little convenience store kiosks that are everywhere) to get some change.  

Taxis   

Taxis are simple and easy to use. By European or American standards, they’re also very cheap. Depending on the time of day, it is very easy to hail a taxi. When we’re getting around Tunis outside of the metro line, a taxi is our first choice.  

Taxis Are Metered

Taxis in Tunisia have a meter, so you know how much you are paying. (Except for some taxis at the airport. See Abi’s section on the airport below.) Most short rides across town are from 5-10 Tunisian Dinars. If you taxi from Tunis out to La Marsa or Sidi Bou Said, it will probably go over 10 Dinars. The meter will run even if you’re sitting in traffic, but it obviously runs a lot faster if you get on the highway. For this reason, taxis may frown on you or refuse the ride if you’re asking for a route that goes through a traffic jam.  

Using Taxis When Don’t Speak French or Arabic

Before you flag down a taxi, have your destination in mind. If possible, learn from a local how to pronounce the name of your destination. Taxi drivers speak Arabic and French. We’ve taken hundreds of taxis over the years, and only one or two of them could speak English. 

If the driver doesn’t know the exact destination, first tell him the neighborhood (use Google Maps). Then, use Google Maps to find a gas station, metro station, grocery store, or something like that. Tunisians do not use road names, at least not the ones listed on Google Maps. You have to use landmarks instead. 

I recommend doing this searching  ahead  of time, not while sitting in the taxi with the driver waiting on you. Once the driver is headed toward a landmark near your destination, you can direct him to the exact destination from there.  

Hailing a Taxi

Taxis have a little light sitting on their dashboard that indicates whether they are available or not. It’s kind of counterintuitive, but a red light means that they are available, and a green light means someone is already in the taxi. The light helps because people often sit in the back seat and it’s hard to tell from a distance whether you should bother to wave them down. Also, if you see that a taxi does not have its sign attached to the roof of the car, that means that the driver is not currently working.  

Seatbelt Law

There is a law in Tunisia that taxi passengers must wear a seatbelt in the front seat. The police DO enforce this law, even if they are inconsistent with it. If a policeman stops you for not wearing a seatbelt, you—not the taxi driver—will have to pay a fine. The fine is about 40 Dinars per person.  

Taxi Etiquette

It is ok to sit in the front or the back seat. Women usually sit in the back. Men who ride alone usually sit in the front.  Do not get into the back seat from the driver’s side! The drivers do not like this. Also, don’t plan on eating or drinking in the taxi. Some drivers keep their cars very clean and they would get upset if you spilled something.  

Bolt (Ride-Sharing App)

For Americans like us who had never heard of Bolt before… it is the European version of Uber or Lyft. Bolt came onto the scene in Tunisia around 2018-2019. There are a TON of taxi drivers who are now simultaneously driving for Bolt. 

Unlike in America, Bolt is not an outright competitor of taxi drivers. So if you use Bolt, you’re not taking business away from hard-working taxi drivers.   

How Bolt Works

Bolt works like Uber in the US, with one big difference:   you have to pay with cash at the end of your ride . Download the Bolt app in your App Store and enter basic information. It’s pretty self-explanatory how to request a ride from the app. 

You will need to have a smartphone with a Tunisian SIM card, since your driver will call you at least once before he arrives. 

The car will be a regular taxicab with a green Bolt decal on the side. The app prescribes the route for the taxi driver. This is really nice if you are unfamiliar with the area, as you know that he is taking you by the fastest route. Pay at the end. No tip is expected.  

The price is higher than a taxi, but it’s still a lot less than you would pay with a comparable ride-share app in America or Europe. They add an extra 5 Tunisian Dinars to the beginning of the ride, and the mileage rate is higher.

Pro’s of Using a Taxi  

• Cheaper than Bolt (sometimes half the cost)  
• If taxis are available, they are faster 
• Don’t have to deal with the App  

Pro’s  of Using Bolt   

• You can quickly get a ride during rush hour without competing with others for a taxi.  
• You can get picked up from places where taxis don’t frequent.  
• Bolt takes you to your exact destination  
• Choose your destination on the app, so you don’t have to explain it to the driver.  
• The driver must follow the prescribed route, so you know you’re not going on any unwanted detours.  

Transportation From Tunis-Carthage Airport  

There are NO trains or metros that offer transportation from the airport. Here are your options.  

1. Use one of the Taxis waiting for passengers

The most common way to leave the airport is through a line of taxis waiting on passengers. The arrivals area will place you on the lower floor of the airport. As soon as you start walking towards your exit, you will most likely be approached by taxi drivers attempting to get your business.

These drivers will get in a taxi line and wait long times for passengers. They charge a flat rate which you will want to haggle for before entering the taxi. On top of this rate they will also ask for a fee for suitcase. They will charge anywhere from 10 to 20 TND as a base rate, and another 5 to 10 TND for suitcases.  

2. Find a Taxi at the Arrivals Door 

If you are wanting to save a few bucks, you can go to the second floor of the airport where the departures are located and grab a taxi from a passenger who is arriving. These taxis will be the normal metered taxi, although you will still want to give them an extra 5-10 TND tip for your suitcases. As they are pulling out, check the meter to make sure it is on and running. It will start at approximately 0.500 TND and be counting up. 

3. Arrange a Private Pickup  

Many resorts and tourism companies can arrange a driver to pick you up from the airport. When you exit the baggage claim through customs, you will most likely find them off to your right holding a sign with your name or the company’s name.  

4. Order a Taxi with Bolt  

Bolt is an app with many hired taxi drivers that you can request a ride through their app system. If you want to use Bolt, you will need to get a Tunisian Sim card in your phone. This can easily be done in the airport. Often there are workers inside the baggage claim signing people up for sim cards. All you need is a passport for this sim. The better option is to exit baggage claim and grab some cash from an ATM then head over to either the Orange or Oreedoo booth and buy your sim have them set up the 4G for you there. Then you can sign up for Bolt with your new Tunisian number and order your ride. You will also now be set up with your phone working with 4G for the rest of your visit. 

5. Take the City Bus  

This is the least glamorous option available from the airport. There are two bus lines that leave from the airport. It is a little bit of a walk to get to the station. One line goes into many of the neighborhoods in Tunis. The other line goes to downtown station where you can get on the metro lines and train station, that will take you to La Marsa or many places all over Tunis. 

6. Rent a Car at the Airport

(See the longer section below about car rentals in general.)

There is the option of renting a car from the airport and starting your driving adventure from the start. The car rental booths are on the bottom floor with the arrivals towards the left of the airport when coming out of baggage claim. You can make a reservation online or rent same day at the airport. There are some car rental places that will also do a meet-and-greet at the airport. When you reserve your car online, you will also provide your flight information and they will be waiting for you as you exit baggage claim.  

Most rental cars are manual transmission, so if you need automatic transmission, it’s probably smarter to do an online reservation. You will need your driver’s license, passport, and credit card to rent a vehicle. 

Train s    

Trains are the most comfortable form of public transportation between cities. Even when crowded, trains a good deal more relaxing and spacious than taking a shared taxi. You also don’t have to worry about the crazy driving habits of  louage  drivers. When we visit friends in Sfax or other cities and don’t want to drive, taking the train is our first choice.  

The government agency called SNCFT runs the trains. There are 246 passenger trains in Tunisia with 80 main lines. The trains go up to 130 km per hr (80 mph). The stops between major cities are short.  

Keep in mind that the hours of operation vary for different train stations. Check the SNCFT website for detailed info about your specific trips.  

Getting to the Train Stations  

The train stations are all well-marked on Google Maps. Search with the phrase “ Gare de  [Name of city].” For example,  Gare de Tunis . You could take a bus to the train station, but it’s a lot easier to just taxi there.  

Tunis . The train station in Tunis is called  Gare de Tunis . Search  Gare de Tunis  on Google Maps. It is right next to the  Barcelone  metro stop. It’s only a 7-minute walk from Avenue Habibi Bourguiba, which is the main avenue in the middle of downtown Tunis. It’s also a 15-minute drive (without traffic) from Tunis-Carthage Airport.  

Sousse . Search  Gare de Sousse  on Google Maps. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from Sousse’s Avenue Mohammed V.  

Hammamet . The main station is  Gare de Hammamet  on Google Maps. This station is a good 25-minute walk from the medina and the beach, so you may want to taxi to get there.  

Sfax . Search  Gare de Sfax  on Google Maps. It’s one block from the southeast corner of the medina.  

Where Do Trains Go in Tunisia?

There are 74 train stations. They will take you to most major cities, but not all. Notable exceptions are Tabarka in the northwest, and the southern town of Douz, which is the starting point for a lot of desert adventures.  

Here’s a complete list of all 74 train stations from the SNCFT website. 

• AOUINET 
• BEKALTA 
• BIR BOU REGBA 
• BIR M’CHERGA 
• BIZERTE 
• BOUARADA 
• BOUARGOUB 
• BOU FICHA 
• BOU SALEM 
• CHEYLUS 
• DAHMANI 
• DEPIENNE 
• EL AKHOUAT 
• EL AROUSSA 
• EL JEM 
• ENFIDHA VILLE 
• FOUSSANA 
• GÂAFOUR 
• GABES 
• GAFSA 
• GHANNOUCH 
• GHARDIMAOU 
• GROMBALIA 
• HAMMAM-LIF 
• JEDEIDA 
• JEMMAL 
• JENDOUBA VOY. 
• JENDOUBA MAR. 
• JERISSA 
• KALAÂ KEBIRA 
• KALAÂ KHASBA 
• KALAÂ SGHIRA 
• KASSERINE 
• THE GOULETTE 
• THE PÊCHERIE 
• LE KEF 
• THE KRIB 
• MAGEN BEN ABBES 
• MAHDIA 
• MAKNASSY 
• MATEUR 
• MANOUBA 
• MEDJEZ EL BAB 
• MENZEL BOURGUIBA 
• MENZEL BOU ZAIEN 
• METLAOUI 
• MEZZOUNA 
• MOKNINE 
• MONASTIR 
• MOULARES 
• NABEUL PV 
• NABEUL VILLE 
• OUED ZARGA 
• PONT DU FAHS 
• RADÈS 
• REDEYEF 
• SEBEITLA 
• SEJNANE 
• SENED 
• SIDI BOU ROUIS 
• SOUSSE 
• THELEPTE 
• TINJA 
• TUNIS PV (MARCH) 
• TUNIS (VOYAG) 
• TOZEUR 

Cost  of Train Tickets

It’s very cheap to travel by train. The longest one-way trips in the nicest seats are still under 30 Tunisian Dinars ($10). Children under 10 travel at a reduced rate, and children under 4 travel for free.   

How to B ook Train Tickets   

You can book train tickets in advance on the state’s SNCFT website. You can only book 3 days in advance. Or, you can go to the train station in person and buy tickets.  

The Train Experience

The trains vary in cleanliness and comfort. First Class or  Class Confort  seats on some of the newer trains are very nice. However, other trains like on the Tunis-Sousse-Sfax-Gabes line are leave some luxury to be desired.  

My (Andy’s) first experience on a train in Tunisia was to go with Abi from Tunis to Sfax and back. It was the middle of July, and there was no AC on the train, so it was extremely hot. There was only one row with two open seats for us, and one of these seats was broken, so I sat kind of lopsided. The seats had old, fabric seat-covers, and since we were sweating profusely, we couldn’t help but wonder how much grime these things had accumulated over the years. While we were waiting to take off, a little kid next to us leaned over and threw up in the aisle between us. Since Abi and I were only weeks away from returning to the US and getting married, we were in too good of a mood to be bothered by all this. But, if you’re expecting luxury on the trains in Tunisia, just be aware that conditions can be less than glamorous!  

Other Train Tips  

• Attendants will come around and check your paper tickets, so don’t lose them.  
• You are free to get up and move around on the trains.  
• The train will have a modest snack bar that serves coffee, snacks, and bottled water. Like other vendors, they will not be serving food during Ramadan.  
• There are bathrooms on the train, but they are unfortunately some of the most stinky and unclean bathrooms you can find in all of Tunisia! Bring your own toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and hazmat mask.   
• Don’t expect temperature-controlled train cars. Dress for the outside weather.  
• You are able to open windows to get a breeze. Keep in mind, though, that Tunisians are sometimes uncomfortable with wind blowing on them even when it’s hot.  

Tunis-Goulet-Marsa Rail Line (TGM)   

The TGM is a rail line that runs from downtown Tunis out to La Marsa. Taxing a taxi is faster and easier, but the TGM is just another way to get to La Goulet, Carthage, and Sidi Bou Said. Buy tickets at the train station.

The TGM is run by  Transtu  (Société des transports de Tunis). This is a different organization than the SNCFT, which operates the trains going outside of the capital. Unfortunately Transtu doesn’t have a website in English.

The starting point for the TGM in Tunis is called Tunis Marine on Google Maps. Do not confuse this with Gare de Tunis. Tunis Marine is located on La Goulette Road, which is the same road as Avenue Habib Bourguiba. It’s a 5-minute walk from the big clock tower, and a 20-minute walk down the avenue from Bab Bhar, the main entrance to the medina.   

Here’s a complete list of stops on the TGM: 

• Tunis Marine 
• Le Bac 
• La Goulette 
• La Goulette Neuve 
• La Goulette Casino 
• Khereddine 
• L’Aéroport* 
• Le Kram 
• Carthage Salammbô 
• Carthage Byrsa 
• Carthage Dermech 
• Carthage Hannibal 
• Carthage Présidence 
• Carthage Amilcar 
• Sidi Bou Saïd 
• Sidi Dhrif 
• La Corniche 
• Marsa Plage 

*Please be aware that the stop called  L’Aeroport  is in fact nowhere near the airport!  

Tunis  Metro   

Tunis is the only city in Tunisia with a metro system. It’s an above-ground, light rail network. The official name for the metro is the Métro léger de Tunis.  

We wrote a whole post about taking the Metro that you should check out if there’s any chance you’ll use the Metro on your trip: 9 Tips for Riding the Metro in Tunis .

The Metro is a quick, cheap, and easy way to get to important places in the city such as the Bardo Museum. However, there are some neighborhoods that the metro unfortunately doesn’t reach. If you are staying in some of the Meza or Manar neighborhoods, which are some of the largest residential neighborhoods in the city, you will have to supplement your metro trip with a taxi ride or a long walk.  

The Metro has 8 lines with 66 stations. The stations are easy to get in and out of. They are white and green, one-story buildings. The ticket booths are all on ground level. Some of the bigger stations downtown have an underground tunnel to get you from one track to another, but in most places, you just walk across the track to get on the correct side.  

Go to the booth and just say the name of your stop. Use Google Maps to find the names of stops. Tickets range in price between 0.320 and 1.550 Dinars (between $0.11 and $0.53). You’ll be issued a paper ticket. Keep the ticket with you, as there are random ticket checks by the police. If you don’t have the ticket on you, you’ll be given a fine of about 20 Dinars ($6.90).  

As with the train service, the metro is free for kids under 4. And it’s a reduced price for kids under 10.  

The Metro gets very crowded during the morning and afternoon rush hours. At the busiest times, you will have to stand in very close contact with all of the other passengers. In the summer, it is like a steamy oven.  

Watch out for pickpockets! They are there, and they are watching you if you’re a tourist. Do NOT keep valuables in your pockets. Put things in a closed bag and keep the bag in front of you. Tunisians tend to ride the metro in complete silence, so use that quiet time to focus on not getting your things stolen. 

City Buses   

To be honest, I was not at all experienced with using the city bus system until we started writing this post, so I finally decided to go out and learn how the bus system works. Here’s what we found….

Buses Aren’t Tourist-Friendly

The bus system is the least tourist-friendly mode of transportation. City buses are made for Tunisian commuters–not for tourists! There are several aspects of taking the bus that will make it less-than-optimal for traveling through Tunis if you’re a first time visitor.  

Bad signage . The bus stops do not have signs or maps. The buses themselves do not have signs or maps inside them either. There is nowhere that you can get a printed copy of the bus route. Basically, you have to know which bus number you’re taking. People who ride the bus regularly know their route from experience and word-of-mouth.  

Language Barrier . If you don’t know Arabic or French, you will feel hopelessly lost using the city buses. The only signage on the bus is an electronic sign on the front windshield that shows the bus number (a number and a letter). The sign also says the destination, but it’s written in Arabic.   

How to Use the Bus

That being said, you should still feel free to try the bus as long as you’re not in a hurry, and if you like tackling new challenges in an unfamiliar country. If you’re short on change, it’s still better than walking.

How to pay . You can pay on the bus or at a ticket booth if you’re at a bus station. You usually get in the back door of the bus, not the front. In the back, there’s a little ticket counter with a guy selling tickets. Tell him your stop if you know it. If not, you can just say “terminus” for terminal and pay the full price, which is only about 700 milims.   

Wait time  & hours . City buses run more frequently in the early mornings than they do during the day. If you show up to a bus stop in the afternoon, the bus may come by only every hour. We waited a good 45 minutes the first time we took a bus, and we started waiting at about 2:30 PM. Unfortunately, there’s no schedule posted for you to know when the bus is going to come. In Tunis, the city buses start at 5:30 AM and finish around 7:30 PM.  

The experience . City buses are not luxurious. The worst part is that they’re crowded, and you may not get a seat. If you jump on a bus half-way through its route, you may have to cram in and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with other commuters.   

Inter-City Buses

Each city has a bus station. These busses are white with green lettering. The buses run from city to city. They follow a schedule, but often are not quite on time. You can ask at the bus station for times or find them online by clicking here .

In Tunis, there are two inter-city bus stations based on whether your destination is the North or South.  Confusingly, these bus stations are about 5 km apart , so take care not to choose the wrong one!

If you’re in Tunis but going North , search Gare Routiere Tunis Nord on Google Maps. It’s near Bab Saadoun on the West side of the medina.

If you’re going South , search Gare Routiere Tunis Sud . It’s near Bab Alioua.

A  louage  is a minivan that can hold nine passengers. Every city in Tunisia has one or two  louage  stations. Where I (Abi) lived in Sfax there was the north  louage  station taking you to any cities in a northern direction, and a southern  louage  station that had  louages  going south. The vans will have the two cities they travel between written on a sticker somewhere on the taxi. These taxis will take off to their destination, only after every seat in the van is full. 

How to pay . When you first arrive at the  louage  station, if there are any signs, they will be written in Arabic. There will be plenty of people wanting to help you out. The drivers are anxious to get their vans full and be off. You will first be directed to a ticket booth. You will pay a fee based on the distance you are traveling. A trip from Sfax to Sousse cost me about 9 Dinars ($3 USD). They will give you a printed receipt. That receipt is what you will take into the station. There will be many queues (lines) for destinations. You can tell people where you are going or show them the receipt and they will direct you to the correct van. 

Where to sit . When you do find your correct van, there are nine seats and all of them must be filled before the van will leave. There are two seats up front by the driver that are included in this. Most men and women segregate as much as possible. The seating choice is mostly first come first serve. People will often claim a seat with their bag and then go grab a snack, coffee, or stand around the vehicle until all passengers have arrived. 

Wait times . There is no way to estimate the wait time. If you are going to a popular destination at a popular time, it is very likely that you will get in a van and leave very quickly. If it is not a high peak travel time, or just not as popular of a destination, you will have to wait for a full ride. If you are the first one to buy a ticket, your wait will be longer than if you are filling one of the last seats. On a  louage  ride from El Djem to Sfax, we once waited for an hour for the final two seats to be filled. The driver offered that we could all pitch in and buy the final seats, and then he could leave.  

The experience . If you are on a longer louage trip, the driver will make stops on the highway at a gas station about every hour and a half for the passengers to get out and stretch their legs. These stations will have fast food, coffee, restrooms, and snacks for sale. 

Shared Taxi   

Inside the city there are yellow minivans that drive on a fixed route. These are called  taxi jemaya  in Arabic, meaning group taxi or shared taxi. If they have an empty seat, you may flag them down anywhere on their route and catch a ride.  

These taxis will have their destinations written in on the bumper or on the top… however, they are mostly written in Arabic. If you plan on using one of these taxis, ask a local to help you know what road to wait on and to help you flag down the vehicle as well.  

You will pay the driver based on how many kilometers you are away from the destination. You can also exit anywhere along the fixed route.  

If the taxi has a seat available, it will often blink its headlights at you to ask if you want it to stop. Wave at them to get them to stop.  

Once inside the taxi, first find an empty seat as the taxi takes off. You then can tell them if you want them to drop you off early or take you to the end destination. You can ask for the price at this point. You will hand your money to the driver often being passed along by your fellow passengers. The driver will hand your change back in the same way while driving.  

Inti-Go   

Last but not least is Intigo, which means “You go.” Intigo is another new addition to the public transportation options in Tunis. It’s basically a moped taxi.  

Intigo mopeds are bright orange, and they have a little roof to keep the sun off of you. The driver usually carries an extra helmet with him that you can wear, if you don’t mind sharing a helmet with hundreds of strangers. 

As of Summer 2020, we’re not seeing a ton of Intigo mopeds around town. Maybe it’s still to-be-determined whether it will last.

So these are your options for transportation in Tunisia! We wish you the best as you visit this country, and we hope this posts equips you to get out there and see all that there is to see in Tunisia!

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Andy & Abi

Andy & Abi live in Tunis and enjoy exploring everything that Tunisia has to offer!

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Shocking video shows serial offender stab random tourist near times square in unprovoked attack.

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Shocking video captured the moment a serial offender pulled out a massive knife and stabbed a passing tourist  near Times Square  in a horrifying unprovoked attack.

Video of Saturday evening’s attack shows the man using a walker to exit Port Gourmet Deli  at  West 43rd and Eighth Avenue and loitering outside the storefront before lunging at an unsuspecting woman on the sidewalk.

The attacker can be seen in the clip wearing a bright yellow sweatshirt under a dark jacket and an orange hat leaving a store and sitting outside on his walker.

Two women can be seen walking toward him when he suddenly jumps up from his seat and reveals a large knife.

Footage shows the suspect shuffling forward and stabbing one of the women across the chest.

Three   women can then be seen backing away from the man, who returns to his seat outside the storefront with the knife on display on his lap.

About two minutes later, footage shows two police officers approaching the man, getting him to drop the knife, and placing him in handcuffs.

The suspected attacker, Cyril Destin, 62, has been arrested 14 times in the past 20 years, largely for criminal mischief and trespassing — including four arrests since 2019, police sources told The Post.

Destin was taken to Bellevue, where he remained Sunday morning.

Charges against him are pending.

Jamal Mubare, 56, who has owned Port of Gourmet Deli since 1994, told The Post the suspect lives across the street at a homeless shelter and would regularly come into his store to buy Newport 100 cigarettes. 

“I know this guy one year. He don’t look like he’s dangerous. I think he just didn’t take his medication or something,” Mubare told The Post. “Everyone over there in the homeless shelter across the street is crazy. They all take medications.” 

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Mubare said he had to stop selling beer, cigars, rolling papers and even lighters because the people coming from the shelter would steal them all. 

“He calls me Bobby. He comes in here and buys cigarettes, Newport 100s. Yesterday he came in and bought a pack of Newport 100s and he paid with a $20 bill. Usually pays with a $20 bill. He comes in and he buys cigarettes and he goes outside and sits in his walker. He has one of those chairs that’s a walker with the wheels,” Mubare said. 

Mubare said that yesterday the suspect did just that but allegedly attacked out at two women who had exited a gift shop next door. 

“He goes outside he sits in his walker and he’s smoking his cigarettes and then the two women come out of the gift shop and he just goes and takes a strike at one of them. He did not know them. And then he just sat down like nothing happened he did not run away. He just sat there smoking a cigarette like I didn’t do anything.”

The victim, a 46-year-old woman, was also taken to Bellevue where she was treated for a stab wound to the chest.

She was in stable condition on Saturday.

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Green Bay City Council approves another Kwik Trip on the west side

GREEN BAY - Kwik Trip on Tuesday got the go-ahead to convert a now-vacant strip mall into its 23rd convenience store in the Green Bay area.

The Green Bay City Council approved a modified version of the La Crosse-based retailer's conditional use permit request to build a 9,000-square-foot convenience store in the 1000 block of West Mason Street.

Kwik Trip plans to build the store on a 2.8-acre parcel along West Mason Street between Ashland Avenue and South Oneida Street. The site currently is occupied by two retail strip centers, a former Subway and an office building, all already vacant.

Green Bay approved modification in response to neighbors' input

Kwik Trip originally submitted a site plan for 1007-1009 W. Mason St. that included three entrances, one each on West Mason Street, Gross Avenue and Gross Court.

Residents of the neighborhood south of the site raised concerns about the Gross Court entrance during an informational meeting in February, and city staff recommended it be removed.

The staff report provided to council recommended Kwik Trip install a 4-foot buffer along Gross Court instead. The buffer could be a wall, a fence, a berm, plantings or some combination of those, provided it is at least 4 feet tall and blocks the site from the view of neighbors to the south.

A Kwik Trip spokesperson said the recommended changed was acceptable from its standpoint.

More Kwik Trip: She's from Green Bay. He's from the United Kingdom. On their wedding day, they went head over heels at Kwik Trip.

More Kwik Trip: One Harley, 11 days, 4,557 miles: Wisconsin woman completes epic Kwik Trip Kwest

Stormwater relief and more green space included in Kwik Trip's plan

There isn't much of the site right now that isn't building or paved parking lot.

Kwik Trip's plans would add extensive landscaping and a stormwater detention pond on the eastern portion of the site. The city staff report indicates the detention pond should help alleviate some stormwater issues the surrounding neighborhood experiences.

When will the West Mason Street Kwik Trip open?

The company previously said it intends to add the store to its 2025 construction schedule.

Contact Jeff Bollier at (920) 431-8387 or [email protected] . Follow him on Twitter at @JeffBollier .

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Discover Le Havre, Where Impressionism Was Born

The movement was named for a seascape Monet painted in this often-overlooked city, France’s largest seaport. But it has a museum full of Impressionist canvases, intriguing architecture and a new energy.

By Elaine Sciolino

As the fog of dawn lifted one morning in mid-November 1872, Claude Monet looked out the window of his hotel room in the French city of Le Havre and furiously painted his vision of its industrial harbor. He flung his brush with quick strokes and played with the water, stretching it with rays of color.

In one sitting, he created “Impression, Sunrise,” a painting of a vivid orange sun with its reflection shimmering in the sea.

In 1874, Monet, who grew up in Le Havre on the Normandy coast, included the painting in an exhibition of 30 artists’ work organized in response to the Paris Salon, an annual showcase of academic art. The critic Louis Leroy denounced “The Exhibition of the Impressionists” and mocked the title of Monet’s painting. “An impression, I’m sure,” he wrote. “I thought to myself, this has made an impression on me so there must be impressions somewhere in there.”

Impressionism was born.

This year, France is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the movement. In Paris, the Musée d’Orsay is exhibiting 130 works from and related to the 1874 exhibition and offering a one-hour immersive tour with virtual reality headsets. It is sending 178 other works to more than 30 museums throughout France.

The Musée Marmottan , which owns “Impression, Sunrise,” has agreed to lend it to the Orsay until July for its exhibition “Paris 1874: Inventing Impressionism” and to the National Gallery in Washington where the exhibition travels in September.

But to discover a fresh and unexpected view of Impressionism requires a visit to Le Havre, France’s most important seaport and its most underappreciated big city.

Snubbed by tourists

Once there was a direct New York-to-Le Havre route on the French Line, whose luxury cruise liners pampered rich Americans with fancy suites and fine French cuisine. Le Havre was their first point of entry into the Old World.

But in more recent times, cruises and tour operators preferred to take their passengers to the Normandy beaches and to charming, quaint Honfleur on the other side of the Seine estuary, rather than to gritty Le Havre. Even today, many Parisians have never visited.

“It used to be that people who came from Le Havre rarely admitted it,” said Édouard Philippe, the mayor of Le Havre and a former French prime minister, in an interview. “People made fun of them. A bit like how people from New Jersey got used to being made fun of because they lived on industrial land that was less beautiful than New York. That all changed. Le Havre is now in fashion.”

To prove his point, he picked up a coffee mug with an intersecting L and H — the new emblem of Le Havre that adorns products — like T-shirts and tote bags — sold throughout the city.

It’s worth a trip to Le Havre just to visit the Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux , which opened in 1961.

With its white walls, steel frame and floor-to-ceiling glass facade that gives a view out to the sea, the museum allows visitors to revel in the light — luminous and somber — produced by the fickle weather of Normandy. A second-floor balcony that looks out over the museum’s outdoor esplanade and the sea adds to the feeling of openness.

“There was a desire from the beginning to make the museum open to the great spectacle of the changing elements outside,” said Géraldine Lefebvre, the museum’s director.

MuMa, as it is called, has arguably the most important collection of Impressionist paintings in France outside the Musée d’Orsay ( Rouen’s Musée des Beaux-Arts makes the same claim). MuMa’s collection is also home to some of the world’s most famous paintings from the Fauvist movement that followed. And unlike the gridlocked Orsay, MuMa is always gloriously undervisited.

“Go to the Orsay, and then come here,” said Ms. Lefebvre. “We battle a little with Rouen, but in terms of the numbers of works and their quality, we are No. 2.”

Ms. Lefebvre has studied and written about Monet’s “Impression, Sunrise.” She worked for a year with Donald Olson, a Texas State University astronomer and physics professor who used topographical, meteorological and astrological studies to calculate the precise date and time of its creation. According to Dr. Olson, she said, Monet painted it at 7:35 a.m. on Nov. 13, 1872.

The Hotel de l’Amirauté, where Monet stayed when he painted “Impression, Sunrise,” is long gone — replaced by a modern apartment building with a bar-bistro and a gift shop on the ground floor.

Ms. Lefebvre and I visited the site, and she captured the scene: “It was winter; the temperature was freezing. The wind was blowing from the west. The light was just coming up from the sea. The moment the sun came up, he worked in one great burst of energy.”

Rebuilt after World War II

Le Havre is not an ancient city like Paris. When the French king François I created the port of Le Havre in 1517, priority was to create “un havre” — a harbor — that would serve as both a military site to protect France from invaders and a commercial port to open Paris to the world. The city was an afterthought.

Trade exploded over time. Wealthy merchants built grand homes in the coastal town of Sainte-Adresse, northwest of Le Havre.

In August 1944, the British Air Force rained bombs on the city and its inhabitants; 2,000 civilians were killed, 80,000 were left homeless and more than 80 percent of the city was destroyed.

In the 1950s, the French architect Auguste Perret , working with a tight budget and on a deadline, oversaw Le Havre’s reconstruction. A master of precast concrete, he used the cheap, plentiful material to build 150 residential blocks with identical modular frames, a rectangular grid system of streets, and wide sidewalks and boulevards. All the apartments had central heat and modern appliances.

The buildings once were considered ugly. At first glance, they all look alike; then you discover that the concrete came in different shades — creamy beige, gray, taupe, khaki, terra-cotta, ocher — and that the geometric columns and beams were finished with varying patterns and textures (from mottled stone to a smooth velvety feel).

“My concrete is more beautiful than stone,” Perret said. “I work it, I chisel it.”

Perret’s geometric architecture has aged well, and midcentury design is now chic. In 2005, Le Havre was the first example of French Modern architecture to achieve UNESCO World Heritage classification , cited as a model of urban experimentation and reconstruction. (Visitors can take a guided tour of a model apartment in a Perret building .)

Perret’s St. Joseph’s Church , completed in 1957, three years after his death, soars to 350 feet and resembles a small-scale New York City skyscraper. Concrete columns rise to angled buttresses and an octagonal cupola. The steeple is lined with more than 12,000 panes of stained glass.

Inside the church, Philippe Mariette, a retired architect who knew Perret, told me to look up at the reflections from the colored panels that dance on the unadorned walls. “No matter how many times I lift my head, I am always astonished,” he said.

A transformed city center

Le Havre has undergone an architectural transformation in recent years. In the center of town is Le Volcan , a partly underground complex designed by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. It consists of a volcano-shaped theater and a smaller crater converted into a library — with quirky seating pods that are great for kids. On the waterfront is Les Bains des Docks , a swimming complex and spa with pools, hammams, Jacuzzis and solariums designed by the French architect Jean Nouvel; inspired by ancient Roman baths, it is covered in 32 million tiny mosaic tiles. Nearby is the Docks Vauban , a mall with a cinema, restaurants and high-end boutiques.

There is one place in Le Havre that captures the city in time. The Maison de l’Armateur , the mansion of a family of shipowners-merchants and now a museum, is one of the city’s only surviving buildings from the 18th century, with a facade sculpted in Louis XVI style.

Wedged between tall buildings on the quay facing the port, where fishing boats and ferries are moored, it is designed like a tower around an octagonal light shaft and skylight, with rooms on five levels, including the ground floor, where a warehouse and stables were located. The house contains living quarters, a study, portraits, cabinets of curiosities, a library, a map room and a kitchen — all evoking the daily life of the bourgeoisie.

A garden where Monet painted

In the summer of 1867, while visiting his aunt in Sainte-Adresse, Monet painted “Garden at Sainte-Adresse,” which now hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

“People know Sainte-Adresse because of the painting,” said François Rosset, a longtime resident who is president of its heritage association. “It’s a formidable vehicle for our town.”

Years ago, Sainte-Adresse refused to give up its independent status and become part of Le Havre. But a three-mile pedestrian and biking trail along the waterfront connects the town and the center of Le Havre. Part of the town was destroyed during the bombings, but many of the old estates on the outskirts were untouched.

Monet’s aunt’s house, which is privately owned, stays empty for much of the year. The main gate to the garden entrance was open on the day I visited. An employee on the grounds let me in for a peek at the site, with its red brick house with white shutters. .

Hubert Dejan de la Bâtie, the mayor of Sainte-Adresse, has dreams of buying and renovating the house and transforming the area into a tourist attraction.

“Maybe I can’t do as well as Giverny,” he said in an interview, referring to the house where Monet lived for 43 years. “But Monet spent his childhood in Le Havre, and maybe we can do a second center for Monet tourism here. We just have to make the project sexy.”

The train from Paris to Le Havre takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. One-way tickets start from an average of €16 (or about $17) when booked in advance through SNCF Connect .

Hôtel Vent d’Ouest Le Havre is in the city center, across the street from St. Joseph Church, a four-minute walk from the harbor and a seven-minute walk from Le Volcan. Cozy and refined country-style décor. Rooms start at €117.

Hôtel Mercure Le Havre Centre Bassin du Commerce , an ultramodern hotel with décor inspired by the port’s containers, is centrally located only a 15-minute walk from the Maison de l’Armateur and MuMa, and a 10-minute walk from the railway station. Rooms start at €98.

Le Bistrot des Halles offers authentic French cuisine in a charming retro setting, with walls decorated with old metal advertising signs. A favorite of locals (about €20 per person for lunch).

Les Fauves , a cafe and restaurant at MuMa, serves versions of French classics and creative desserts in an upscale room with views of the water (about €20 to €30 per person for lunch).

Elaine Sciolino is a contributing writer and former Paris bureau chief for The New York Times, based in France since 2002. Her newest book, “Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love With the World’s Greatest Museum,” will be published in 2025. In 2010, she was decorated a chevalier of the Legion of Honor, the highest honor of the French state.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Nigeria Trip Details Revealed!

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are embarking on their first international tour since relocating to the U.S.

Samir Hussein/WireImage

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are set for their first visit to Nigeria!

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will kick off their visit to the west African country on Friday, May 10, PEOPLE confirms.

PEOPLE's chief foreign correspondent Simon Perry will exclusively join the trip to Nigeria, covering the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's various outings.

Prince Harry, 39, and Meghan, 42, were invited to by Nigeria's Chief of Defense Staff, the country's highest-ranking military official. Upon their arrival on Friday morning, the couple will visit a school. They will then meet with the Chief of Defense Staff. In the afternoon, Harry will meet injured servicemembers at a military hospital.

On Saturday, the couple will attend a training session for the organization, Nigeria: Unconquered and a reception hosted by the Chief of Defence Staff in honor of military families.

In the afternoon, Meghan will co-host an event of Women in Leadership with Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization.

JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty

On Sunday, The Duke and Duchess will attend a basketball clinic with Giants of Africa, a cultural reception, and a polo fundraiser for Nigeria: Unconquered.

Prince Harry spent a few days in London this week to mark the tenth anniversary of his  Invictus Games , the competition for wounded, injured and sick veterans and serving armed forces members, and the commemoration was highlighted by a Service of Thanksgiving Service at St. Paul's Cathedral in London.

Notably, while his celebration was taking place at the Cathedral, his father King Charles was only two miles away at Buckingham Palace, where he hosted a garden party . The father and son did not meet in the two days that Harry was in the city, due to what was said to be the King's "full schedule. The prince was "understanding of his father’s diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon," a spokesperson for the Duke of Sussex said.

The visit to Nigeria will continue with the Invictus Games theme, highlighting the adaptive sports competition for wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans which Nigeria participated for the first time at the latest cycle in Germany in September 2023.

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The Nigerian Minister of Defense, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar Badaru also attended the event, and has expressed willingness to host the games in the future should Nigeria be granted the opportunity.

PEOPLE confirmed Harry and Meghan's trip on April 28, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to meet with service members and participate in a variety of cultural activities during the visit, which may be especially poignant for Meghan.

In 2022, the Duchess of Sussex revealed that she had discovered via a geneology test that she was 43% Nigerian. Talking about it in her Archetypes podcast, she told comedian Ziwe, "I'm going to start to dig deeper into all this because anybody that I've told, especially Nigerian women, are like 'What!' "

"This is huge for our community," Ziwe, 30, said. "No, honestly, you do look like a Nigerian, you look like my Aunt Uzo. So this is great."

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage?  Sign up for our free Royals newsletter  to get the latest updates on  Kate Middleton ,  Meghan Markle  and more!

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Prince Harry and Meghan also spent time with the Nigerian team at the latest Invictus Games, where they posed for photos and gave Meghan a special nickname meaning "royal wife."

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