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

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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

El Jem Amphitheatre

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

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

Sousse Archaeological Museum

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

Archaeological Museum

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

Bardo Museum

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

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

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

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11 top tips when you travel tunisia: key things to know before you go.

If you plan to travel Tunisia, then here’s 11 key things you should definitely know before you go!

From what to eat and how to find the best accommodation, through to the best way to get around, what to pack and some top tips for solo female travellers, this is my full guide to prepping, planning and enjoying your travels in this fantastic country.

While Morocco and Egypt may be stealing the lion’s share of tourists in north Africa, Tunisia’s charm lies precisely in the fact that large parts of the country remain wonderfully undiscovered by foreign tourists.

And from beaches to deserts, ancient historic sites to quaint cobbled-street towns, trust me when I say there’s a lot to discover here!

So if you’re heading to this fab country soon, take a read of my following top Tunisia travel tips and start planning your adventure there asap…

Related Posts

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

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

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

#1 When to Travel Tunisia?

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

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

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

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

#2 How to Get to Tunisia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As always I use Skyscanner to find the best prices.

#3 How Best to Travel Around Tunisia?

In the Tunis-Carthage area, there is a handy metro and regional light train service that gets you between the main areas.

The Bolt rideshare app (like Uber) also exists in this area and is a great idea for getting around without having to worry about language barriers and confusing prices!

Beyond that, long distance trains service major cities in Tunisia including Sousse, El Jem, Sfax, Bizerte and Gabès.

For smaller towns, buses or shared minivan taxis, known as louage , are common modes of transport.

Bookaway is a great site for booking train, bus and private transfer options in Tunisia.

Public transport can be a bit patchy here sadly, so isn’t always ideal for using if you’re on a short itinerary and want to explore a lot.

As such, I really suggest hiring a car to explore this country – especially the north and east regions – and highly recommend Discover Cars for the job.

Alternatively, if you feel more confident travelling Tunisia as part of a group, or with a guides, check out these top Tunisia tours .

#4 How Long to Travel Tunisia For?

I really recommend a minimum of 7 days to travel Tunisia.

Tthis will allow to you to enjoy a couple of destinations located close to each i.e. Tunis, Carthage, Bizerte and Dougga.

If you want to travel more widely across the north of country, including exploring fab destinations such as Al-Huwariyah, Sousse and Zaghouan, then I suggest at least 10 days for your time in Tunisia.

Check out this epic 10 day itinerary I wrote for the north of Tunisia for more ideas.

If you’d also like to explore the south of Tunisia, including the islands of Djerba and some of the key Star Wars sites in the desert, then you’ll need to allow at least 2 weeks for your travels in this country.

#5 What to Pack for Your Tunisia Travels?

What many people don’t realise is that temperatures in Tunisia can be fresh across the country even in the spring and autumn months.

This is especially true in the more mountainous north of the country, but even in the desert at night it can get cool at these times.

As such, I certainly advise bringing some warmer layers with you, including a wind and water proof thin jacket , as well as a denim jacket and a couple of warm jumpers or fleece.

Trainers or sneakers are a great idea as well, so you can enjoy sightseeing and some active pursuits in this country, and don’t forget some longer trousers for cooler days as well.

For beach days in Tunisia, you’ll need swimwear, sunscreen, sunhat and a sarong, while for deserts and religious sites, thin light clothing that covers the knees, chest, shoulders and upper arms is required.

Outside of these items, don’t also forget a good day pack , a filter water bottle , a good camera , a decent guidebook and an Arabic or French phrasebook .

Learn more in this complete Tunisia packing guide I wrote.

#6 Travel Insurance for Tunisia

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

#7 Best Things to Do in Tunisia

As most people are aware, Tunisia is filled with some fantastic beaches and stunning stretches of the Sahara, so if you want to get a good dose of sun, sea and sand (especially outside of the peak summer months), this country makes a great choice!

But did you know that Tunisia also offers tons of great stuff to do away from these classic pursuits, including a huge range of active and historic attractions.

Heading to ancient UNESCO-listed sites, such as the Carthage ruins, El-Djem amphitheatre, Dougga archaeological site and Kairouan’s Grand Mosque are some great examples, but between these you can also enjoy a range of outdoor adventures such as kayaking, climbing, caving, cycling, hiking, sailing and diving.

My favourite spots for outdoor activities in this country include the region of Cape Bon, Zaghouan and Siliana.

The latter of these also boasts an amazing array of traditional craft workshops with local women, from cooking to weaving.

Learn more about all these in this list of top 21 things to do in Tunisia .

#8 Is Tunisia Safe to Travel?

I found Tunisia incredibly safe to travel and never felt hassled, watched or pestered when adventuring here, even as a solo female.

In smaller towns especially, I felt comfortable wandering around in the evening and, generally speaking, found the country to be more liberal than other countries I’ve visited in North Africa.

In particular, alcohol was available in hotels across the country, and I found wearing three quarter-length trousers with singlets and a thin scarf to be totally adequate.

While there has been some events that have targeted tourists in the past, in general, I’d say Tunisia feels very safe to travel as long as you follow the usual common sense precautions.

Taking a SIM card is a great way to feel reassured when travelling in less familiar parts of the world too – it’s super handy for Google maps, Whatsapp and Rideshare apps, all of which help keep you safe.

aloSIM is a great solution as you can buy it online before you arrive and then ensure you’re connected as soon as you touchdown in Tunisia.

#9 Is Tunisia Expensive?

I found Tunisia incredibly cheap to travel, in fact I’d rate it as one of the cheapest countries I’ve ever been to (probably only behind Armenia, Georgia, Egypt and Turkey).

Food here is very affordable, as is accommodation, and getting around via public transport costs next to nothing.

As nightlife isn’t a big deal in this country (it’s actually non-existent in many towns!), you won’t spend much on alcohol or going out in the evening here.

The things you will spend a bit more on however are flights to the country (sadly no budget airlines fly here), as well as car hire and tours if this is how you choose to get around the country.

At the most basic end of things, you can easily travel Tunisia on $50 USD a day.

At the top end (eating in fancy resort restaurants and staying in 5* hotels), you’re looking at $300 USD+ a day.

And when it comes to spending money in Tunisia, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card here, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

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

#10 Where to Stay in Tunisia?

While Tunisia doesn’t have any hostels, it does however have a good selection of hotels and resorts across its main cities and resort areas.

For the best accommodation outside of these major destinations however, I high recommend the network of traditional guesthouses known as “dar”.

These are homestay like set-ups, usually in a traditional Tunisia home or guesthouses.

Small and boutique, they generally feature a few rooms, modern comforts and tend to offer homecooked meals in the evening, as well as breakfasts in the morning, which makes them even better in my opinion!

I really loved staying in these Dar properties across Tunisia because they all give a wonderful sense of the culture of this country, as well as comfortable and unique stays.

My top picks include…

Dar Aida in Zaghouan

Dar Villa Zembra in Al Huwariyah

Dar Khadijaa in Hergla

Dar Essid in Sidi Bou Said

Message these accommodation choices direct through the Instagram links above for the easiest booking process – it’s really hard for small Tunisian business to register with Booking.com or Airbnb FYI, so Instagram is the best way to book direct and get the best prices.

#11 Food and Drink in Tunisia

If you weren’t in the know about Tunisian food, then you’re in for a great surprise when you travel this country, because it’s honestly fantastic!

Spicy, fresh and delicious, a huge amount of food is produced in this country, which makes for a wonderful culinary tradition and almost everywhere you adventure here, you’ll get to enjoy seriously great meals.

With most Tunisian food containing either meat or fish, you’ll need to make sure you specify you don’t want either if you’re a vegetarian, but this is simple to do and most places are very happy to cater for non-meat and fish eaters I found.

Bread is a huge staple here (so non-gluten folk beware!) and spice is too, with homemade harissa being heaped on pretty much every meal… much to my delight!

Most meals are a few course long – soup, then salad, then main, then fruits, the tea and cakes! – and you’ll quickly learn Tunisian meal sizes are not small, so you have been warned!

As a majority Muslim country, alcohol is not commonly served in Tunisia and most meals are accompanied by water and finished with sweet tea.

Alcohol is not easy to find across the country, but can be sourced in tourist-orientated restaurants and hotels, which are found in most of the major towns and cities.

Tourist-dominated areas, as such as the resort of Hammamet, have lots of hotels with bars for alcohol-seeking holiday makers.

You can’t drink the tap water in Tunisia, but bringing a Water To-Go bottle with you, will allow you too safely!

Learn more about these amazing water filter travel products here .

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So there you have it, my top travel Tunisia tips!

If you’re looking to get off the beaten track in North Africa and away from the tourist crowds of Egypt and Morocco, then this country is for you!

Have any questions about travel in Tunisia still?

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

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

2 thoughts on “ 11 Top Tips When You Travel Tunisia: Key Things to Know Before You Go! ”

Such a remarkable country. Thanks for all the tops and great images! Definitely going to add it to my bucket list. Safe travels 😉 Donovan

Ah so fab to hear this Donovan! Defo get Tunisia on your bucket list! Happy travels and best wishes, Steph 🙂

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• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Western tunisia, including the tunisia-algeria border.

FCDO advises against all travel to:

• the Chaambi Mountains National Park
• Mount Salloum
• Mount Sammamma
• Mount Mghila

This is due to cross-border terrorist activity and operations by the Tunisian security forces. 

In addition, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• areas north and west of the town of Ghardimaou in Jendouba Governorate, including El Feidja National Park
• within 30km of the Tunisia-Algeria border in El Kef and Jendouba governorates, south of the town of Jendouba, including the archaeological site of Chemtou
• Kasserine Governorate, including the town of Sbeitla
• within 10km of the rest of the Tunisia-Algeria border south of Kasserine Governorate
• within 10km of Mount Mghila
• Mount Orbata

Southern Tunisia, including the Tunisia-Libya border

• the militarised zone south of the towns of El Borma and Dhehiba
• within 20km of the rest of the Tunisia-Libya border area north of Dhehiba
• the town of Ben Guerdane and immediate surrounding area

This is due to cross-border terrorist activity and fighting in Libya.

In addition, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 75km of the Tunisia-Libya border, including Remada, El Borma and the town of Zarzis

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers
• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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Travel to Tunisia in 2024: Tips + Itinerary

By Joan Torres 20 Comments Last updated on April 29, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this Tunisia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

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

our recommended travel insurance for Tunisia

IATI Insurance is the most versatile insurance for any destination, including Tunisia.

🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Tunisia

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

🛫 How to get to Tunisia

How to travel to tunisia by air.

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

How to travel to Tunisia by land

Tunisia has a border with Algeria and Libya .

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

🚑 Travel Insurance for Tunisia

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⛅ Best time to visit Tunisia

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

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

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

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

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

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

🕌 The people and the culture

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Must-try dishes in during your trip in Tunisia

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

🛺 How to move around: transportation

Typically, there are 2 ways to travel around Tunisia:

Traveling around Tunisia by train

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

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

Traveling around Tunisia by louage

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

💰 Money, budget and costs

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

1 USD = 3.15 TND

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

How much does it cost to travel to Tunisia?

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

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

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

Please note that the below table is just an approximation.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Tunisia?

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

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

Is Tunisia a safe country to visit?

Tunisia Itinerary – Places to visit in 2 weeks

How long should you go backpacking in Tunisia for?

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

Tunisia 2-week travel itinerary map

Day 1, 2 – Visit the capital of Tunis

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tunis

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

Where to stay in Tunis

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

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

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

Best tours in Tunis

I recommend you look for tours via GetYourGuide .

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

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

Day 3 – The resort-like town of Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Sousse

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

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

Where to stay in Sousse

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

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

How to get to Sousse from Tunis

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

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

Day 4 – Day trip to Monastir

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

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

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

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

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

Then, we went to Habib Bourguiba’s mausoleum.

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

How to get Monastir from Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Kairouan

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

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

How to get to Kairouan from Sousse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to El Jem from Sousse

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

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

Day 7 – Sfax, the coolest medina in Tunisia

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Sfax

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

Where to stay in Sfax

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

For more hotel options in Sfax,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tataouine & around

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

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

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

Where to stay in the area

I recommend you stay in Tataouine.

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

Apartment – Dar Essadeg – Full traditional apartment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tozeur

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

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

Where to stay in Tozeur

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

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

How to get to Tozeur from Tataouine

The journey is rather more than 300km.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Le Kef

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

How to get to Le Kef from Tozeur

It’s a long way, around 330km.

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

Day 13 – Day trip to Jugurtha Tableland

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

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

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

How to get to Jugurtha Tableland from El Kef

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 14 – Day trip to Dougga Roman ruins

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

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

Absolutely gorgeous.

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

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

How to get to Dougga from El Keff

It was a bit complicated.

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

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

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

❗ More information for backpacking in Tunisia

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

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

All guides and articles for traveling in Tunisia destination

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Is Tunisia Safe?

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

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

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20 comments

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

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

Has anyone rented a car and drove around Tunisia independently?

I did, in the south. Very easy

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

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

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

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

Mega helpful. Thank you.

Is there anyway to get from Sousse to Dougga?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hola Joan, qué tal?

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

Muchas gracias, saludos!

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

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

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

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Travel Statement : Updated  1st December 2022

Following the improvement in Tunisia of the indicators related to Covid-19 and considering the static situation of the pandemic on a national and international level, the Tunisian Ministry of Public Health has made the following statement:

- The removal of all Covid -19 requirements such as presenting a negative PCR test, Rapid test or a vaccine certificate for all passengers entering the Tunisian territory

- Wearing a face mask will remain mandatory when showing symptoms of infection.

- Ventilation of enclosed spaces will remain implemented.

- The vaccination campaign will continue aiming at the elderly and those suffering from chronic diseases.

This sanitary protocol will keep being updated accordingly with the evolvement of the epidemiological situation.

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

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

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

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

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

A Quick Word on Language

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

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

Local Customs

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

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

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

Day One: Ruins of Empire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Tunis

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

Day Two: Sea, Sand, and Sidi Bou Said

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Three: Downtown Tunis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Four: Westward, Ho!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Five: Second-Best Sousse 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Sousse

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

Day Six: Kairouan

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

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

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

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

Day Seven: A Jem of a City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Return to Sousse for your final night.

Day Eight: Lazy Days

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Hammamet

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

Day Nine: Beside the Beach

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

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

Day Ten: Tunis Revisited

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

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

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

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

Lauren Juliff

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

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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

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.

Travelling to a country with a different currency? Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay in local currency with a Wise Card . We love this card; it has saved us so much in fees.

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.

AFRICA Food Map – African Food Guide to 54 Countries

The Fascinating Medina in Tunis – 5 Unique Things To Do

Travel in Tunisia – 10 Best Tips for Independent Travellers

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 .

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.

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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 on Booking.com
• 🎟 Book your tickets online: We use Viator and GetYourGuide
• 🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
• 📸 Join a Group Tour: Search Tourradar for Group Tours
• ✅ Get Connected with eSIM: Easy and affordable! View eSIM

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

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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 .

Travel Tips for Tunisia

We wrote helpful travel guides and tips for Tunisia—this country is so diverse!

When planning your trip, we recommend you read our 10 best tips for independent travellers to Tunisia . This post includes essential things to know that will make your travels here much smoother.

Our perfect 14-day itinerary for Tunisia is a detailed guide to visiting the best parts of the country.

We wrote this comprehensive post about how to visit El Jem Amphitheatre , what an incredible site!

Our post explaining  8 of the best street eats in Tunisia cannot be missed, and we recommend these  top 5 things to do in Tunis Medina .

Tunisia features on our list of the 10 best food countries in Africa , offering some of the most popular African breakfast foods .

Our Food Map of Africa is interesting because it explains what they eat in all 54 nations.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Tunisia. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIM options in Tunisia.

If your travels in Tunisia are part of a 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 eSIM . The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

Want to travel in Tunisia with like-minded travellers? View the best deals on group adventures in Tunisia .

Check out 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 15% 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.

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

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

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

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

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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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Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Tunisia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory may 14, 2024, tunisia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued to update information to high-risk areas.

Exercise increased caution in Tunisia due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.  

Do not travel to:

• Within 16 km of the Algerian border due to terrorism, except for the cities of Tabarka and Ain Draham.
• Within 16 km of the border with Libya due to terrorism.
• The Mount Chaambi National Park, Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila in Kasserine governorate due to terrorism.
• The Mount Orbata area in the Gafsa governorate due to terrorism.
• The desert south of Remada due to the military zone.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Tunisia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, museums, resorts, hotels, festivals, nightclubs, restaurants, religious sites, markets/shopping malls, government facilities and security forces. A country-wide state of emergency, which grants security forces more authority to maintain civil order and enables the government to focus on combating terrorism, is in effect. 

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in some areas of Tunisia. U.S. government employees under the Embassy’s (Chief of Mission) security responsibility must obtain special authorization to travel outside greater Tunis.  

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Tunisia. 

If you decide to travel to Tunisia:

• Exercise caution when using public transportation, due to safety and security concerns.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Avoid staying overnight outside of the main cities and tourist locations.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• When entering or transiting through Tunisia, avoid bringing in Tunisian currency in any amount and avoid bringing in any foreign currency, including dollars, in excess of the equivalent of TND 10,000. Upon departure including transit through Tunisia, travelers leaving Tunisia must declare any currency amounts above TND 5,000 if they wish to export or depart with that amount.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter/X . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Tunisia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.  
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Border with Algeria – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel within 16 km of the Algerian border due to terrorism, except for the cities of Tabarka and Ain Draham.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Border with Libya – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Developments in Libya continue to affect the security situation along the Tunisian-Libyan border in areas such as Ras Jedir and Dehiba along with the cities of Ben Guerdan and Medenine. The border with Libya is frequently closed to all traffic with short notice for extended periods. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens not to travel to Libya. 

Kasserine Western Mountains, Mount Mghila in Sidi Bou Zid, and the Mount Chaambi National Park in West-Central Tunisia – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist groups continue to operate in mountains of Western Tunisia near the Algerian border. 

Orbata Mountains in Gafsa in West-Central Tunisia – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist groups continue to operate in the mountainous areas of Western Tunisia near the Algerian border. 

The Desert South of Remada – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The desert south of Remada is designated as a military zone by the Government of Tunisia. Special authorization is required for travelers wishing to enter the military zone.

Travel Advisory Levels

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Tunisia travel advice

Latest updates: Thorough review and update of the entire travel advice content

Last updated: June 14, 2024 18:38 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, tunisia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Tunisia due to the countrywide risk of terrorism.

Regional advisory - Avoid all travel

• Aïn Draham
• the area within 30 km of the border with Libya
• Mghila, which extends into the governorate of Sidi Bouzid
• the cordoned-off military zone south of the town of Remada in the governorate of Tataouine

Regional advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• the Delegation of Remada
• Mount Orbata

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Demonstrations, strikes and civil unrest

Demonstrations and strikes occur occasionally, particularly to denounce the deterioration of economic, political and social conditions in Tunisia. They sometimes lead to civil unrest and clashes with the security forces. Although demonstrations take place throughout the country, they are mainly concentrated in downtown Tunis.

 Strikes in transportation and public services occur occasionnally. Rail, sea, air and public transport services could therefore be affected. There are reports of shortages of fuel and certain foodstuffs.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.  

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities 
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations 

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

There is a threat of terrorism.

On May 9, 2023, a shooting took place near the Ghriba synagogue on the island of Djerba, resulting in several casualties. This attack took place despite an increased presence of security forces as part of the annual Lag Ba'omer pilgrimage.

Terrorists have previously targeted resorts and tourist attractions, as well as government and military installations. Individuals suspected of terrorism or arms trafficking have been captured in various parts of the country, including Tunis. The presence of extremist groups and regional instability pose a threat to the safety of foreigners, religious sites and tourist facilities. Security forces are on constant alert and conduct anti-terrorist operations throughout the country to prevent attacks.

Despite the preventive efforts of security forces, terrorist acts could occur at any time. Targets could include :

• government buildings
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks;
• public places such as tourist attractions, stadiums, restaurants, bars, cafés, shopping malls, markets, hotels and other places frequented by foreigners.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. 

Be especially vigilant at:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections.

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks. 

Zones with military presence

The Tunisian authorities have designated certain areas as “ military operations zones ”, where the army patrols to counter terrorist threats and attacks. These zones mainly include the central-western mountain ranges in the governorates of Kasserine and Kef, including :

• Mount Chaambi
• Mount Mghila
• Mount Selloum
• Mount Sammama

Avoid all travel to fenced-off military zones such as the area south of the city of Remada, in the governorate of Tataouine. The Tunisian armed forces could arrest you if you enter without prior authorization.

Border regions

Due to the movement of suspected terrorist cell members, militants and smugglers between Tunisia and neighboring countries, the Tunisian government has increased the presence of its armed forces on the border with Algeria. However, the threat of cross-border terrorist activity remains, and attacks still target the Tunisian armed forces.

There is a risk of terrorist attacks and kidnappings along the Algerian border, particularly in the mountainous regions of the following governorates:

Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have been found in these areas. The Algerian and Tunisian armed forces carry out joint anti-terrorist operations on both sides of the border, notably in the governorates of Jendouba, Kasserine and Kef.

Deteriorating security conditions and the presence of terrorist groups in Libya continue to have an impact on the security situation along the border with Tunisia. There is a strong presence of Tunisian armed forces on the border with Libya, notably to control the passage of migrants to and from Libya, as well as from the Mediterranean Sea.

The border between Tunisia and Libya may close at any time for an indefinite period.

State of emergency

The state of emergency has been in effect in Tunisia since 2015 and is regularly extended due to the threat of terrorism.

Security forces have increased rights to: 

• conduct searches
• make seizures
• detain persons of interest
• impose curfews

If you are traveling to a place where a state of emergency is in effect:

• be aware that you may be subject to searches by security forces
• always cooperate with military and police officers
• carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
• allow extra time to reach your destination
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• monitor local media for the latest information

Kidnappings

Although the risk is low, kidnappings may occur, particularly along border areas.

During your stay :

• report any suspicious behavior to security forces
• exercise caution at all times

Sports events

Sports events sometimes give rise to rowdy behavior and violent incidents.

Be careful if you attend sports events.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs occasionally, especially in tourist areas.

A rise in crimes of opportunity is also reported across the country and particularly in Tunis, including:

• exercise caution
• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents in a secure place 
• don’t show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery 
• avoid walking alone after dark 
• avoid isolated areas

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone can be subject to offensive verbal and sexual abuse and behaviour.

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons can be victims of discrimination, harassment and acts of violence based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sexual characteristics.

There are reports of 2SLGBTQI+ people being harassed online, particularly for taking part in events related to 2SLGBTQI+ issues. In some cases, their personal information is revealed on social media, where individuals call for violence against them.

Security forces sometimes carry out arbitrary arrests and illegal searches and use violence and blackmail to force people to hand over their phones and belongings. This information may be used as evidence in legal proceedings.

If you are a victim of violence or detained by local authorities due to your sexual orientation, gender identity or any other sexual characteristic, you should report it immediately to the Canadian Embassy in Tunisia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics  

Fraud related to online shopping occurs in Tunisia.

There have been several reports of products ordered online, including on social media, which do not correspond to the description given. Individuals trying to obtain compensation face phone numbers that are no longer in service or online pages that no longer exist.

• Avoid shopping on unencrypted websites
• Beware of overly attractive business opportunities
• Don't give your banking information to strangers

In some resorts, young Tunisians are looking to marry older Canadians either to enrich themselves or to come to Canada.

Keep in mind that you could be the victim of a scam if strangers or new acquaintances bring up the subject of marriage.

Overseas fraud

Road safety

Driving habits.

The number of road accidents is rising in Tunisia, despite awareness campaigns.

Roads are busy during the summer vacations, particularly between July and mid-September.

Many accidents are caused by drivers' dangerous behavior, including :

• sudden lane changes
• drinking and driving
• driving at night without headlights
• distractions
• failure to comply with road signs

Bicycles, electric scooters and motorcycles are not always equipped with reflectors or headlights, and often zigzag between cars.

In some isolated areas, emergency services may be limited and response times may be longer.

Road conditions

Outside major cities, roads can be dangerous for various reasons, including :

• uneven surfaces
• lack of infrastructure maintenance
• insufficient lighting

Pedestrians sometimes walk in the street due to the absence of sidewalks, and often weave in and out of cars to cross the street. Vehicles don't always stop at crosswalks or when the light is red at an intersection.

Police officers often intercept cars for inspection, especially rental cars.

If you drive in Tunisia :

• always drive defensively
• be very careful if you travel after dark
• only use main roads and highways
• fill your gas tank before you travel, especially if you're traveling to remote areas
• avoid stopping in isolated areas

In remote areas, including the area south of Jebil National Park and in desert zones, cell phone reception is not always reliable and resources for obtaining assistance are limited.

Public transportation

Yellow taxis are generally available, but few are equipped with working seatbelts. You can hail a taxi on the street or order one via a mobile app that indicates the fare, which is usually higher.

Taxis generally only accept payment in cash.

City buses are crowded and regularly behind schedule. Crime, especially petty crime, can occur on board.

Petty crime, such as purse snatching, can occur on trains. Derailments and collisions occur every year.

Intercity trains and buses are considered more reliable, but safety standards may differ from those in Canada.

When using public transportation:

• avoid storing bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat
• always carry your valuables and identification with you

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Tunisian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Tunisia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required Student visa: not required

If you wish to stay in Tunisia for more than 90 days, contact the nearest Tunisian embassy or consulate before your departure for information on visa requirements.

In you are already in Tunisia, go to a police station or the Ministry of the Interior.

Dual citizenship

Tunisian authorities may ask Canadians who also have Tunisian citizenship to present their Tunisian passport when entering and leaving the country. You may be questioned extensively as to why you are not traveling with your Tunisian passport.

If your Tunisian passport is no longer valid, contact the nearest Tunisian embassy or consulate.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Medical services are generally adequate in major cities but may be limited in rural areas.

Doctors and hospitals generally require payment on the spot at the time of treatment, and may also ask for a deposit or payment in advance, depending on the type of consultation or treatment required.

Your private insurance may be accepted in certain clinics if they obtain a payment guarantee from your insurance company.

Medications available in Tunisia may differ from those available in Canada, and some may be difficult to find, especially in rural areas.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Those convicted of these offences are subject to heavy fines and prison sentences of up to life.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Religious proselytism

Religious proselytizing is prohibited.

This includes preaching, possessing or distributing religious literature or material.

Avoid engaging in religious activities that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values.

Tunisian law criminalizes sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be arrested because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sexual characteristics. They could also be arrested and face other charges such as:

• public indecency
• offence to public morality

Convicted offenders face fines and prison sentences ranging from six months to three years.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Tunisia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You can drive in Tunisia with a valid Canadian driver's licence.

You should have an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Tunisia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Tunisia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

Child custody

A child born to a Tunisian mother or father can be considered by the Tunisian authorities as a Tunisian citizen, no matter where he or she was born and what other citizenship he or she has acquired.

In cases where one or more family members hold Tunisian citizenship, parents should consider the risks before their children travel to Tunisia, including that:

• at the request of family members, Tunisian authorities can prevent children from leaving Tunisia (a procedure known as a “stop order”)
• Canadian children who are identified as Tunisian citizens will be treated as Tunisian nationals

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Tunisia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Tunisia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Tunisia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Imports and exports

Tunisian authorities strictly prohibit the import and/or export of certain goods, including :

• narcotics and psychotropic products
• second-hand goods
• works of art and antiques
• any product likely to offend public decency, health, public safety or state security

Special permits may be required for certain types of goods. You should consult the regulations in force and contact the Tunisian customs authorities before importing or exporting goods to or from Tunisia.

Prohibitions and restrictions – Tunisian Customs (in French and Arabic)

Dress and behaviour

The majority of the population is Muslim. Dress conservatively, and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending the local population.

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

Photography

Avoid taking pictures of military installations, government buildings and embassies. Ask permission before taking people's pictures. 

The currency is the Tunisian dinar (TND).

It’s prohibited to import and export Tunisian dinars (TND).

ATMs are widely available in tourist areas and can be found in all major centres.  Many establishments in urban and tourist areas accept credit cards.

Foreign currency declaration

Tunisian foreign exchange regulations are strict and complex.

There are restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency. You must declare all foreign currency in your possession equal to or superior to the equivalent of 20,000 TND:

• upon arrival
• upon departure

If you enter Tunisia with a sum exceeding 5,000 TND, you must declare the amount to airport customs so that the exceeding sum is not confiscated when you leave the country.

In the event of confiscation upon leaving, you must request a refund using a form available on the Tunisian customs website.

In addition, you will not be able to leave Tunisia with the equivalent of 30,000 TND or more, even if you declared it upon entry.

These rules apply to non-residents.

Residents of Tunisia may obtain a conversion allowance of up to 6000 TND in foreign currency per calendar year under certain conditions.

However, in order to leave the country as a resident with foreign currency in your possession, you must:

• declare all foreign currency you are carrying
• provide official proof to the customs authorities of the allowance obtained

If you’re travelling to Tunisia, you should:

• familiarize yourself with the regulations before you travel
• declare any foreign currency in your possession upon entry
• keep your declaration until you leave
• exchange foreign currency at recognized banks or exchange offices only
• plan accordingly

Foreign currency declarations apply to:

• traveller's cheques

Currency and exchange – Tunisian Customs (in French and Arabic only)

Tunisia is prone to various natural disasters, such as:

• bad weather
• sand and dust storms
• earthquakes

Temperatures vary both geographically and seasonally. In the north, summers are hot and dry, and winters are rainy.  In the south, the climate is semi-arid, and it can get very hot in the Sahara, especially in the summer. Between June and September, temperatures can exceed 40°C, and sand and dust storms are frequent.

Severe droughts can last for several years, reducing water supplies.

During dry periods:

• always keep water supplies on hand

Rainy season

In northern Tunisia, the rainy season generally extends from October to May. In the south, rainfall is significantly less frequent due to the arid climate. In the winter, downpours can block roads.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Monitor local media for updates, including road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Sand and dust storms

Sand and dust storms are common.

During a sand or dust storm :

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• be prepared to modify, interrupt or cancel your trip at any time

Earthquakes

Although Tunisia is not located in a high-risk zone for earthquakes, small tremors do occasionally occur.

Earthquakes - What to do?

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 197 / 193
• medical assistance: 190
• firefighters: 198

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Tunisia, in Tunis, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Tunisia Travel Guide: Essential Facts and Information

Max Shen/ Getty Images

One of the most popular tourist destinations in North Africa , Tunisia offers an incredibly diverse range of experiences. Along the Mediterranean coast, resort towns like Hammamet provide an abundance of sun and sea; while the southern Sahara is populated by dramatic desert landscapes, fascinating Berber villages and abandoned Star Wars sets . Tunisia's status during Roman times is evident in the well-preserved ruins at El Jem and Carthage, while Tunis offers all the cultural and culinary opportunities you'd expect from a major capital.

Note: check the latest travel warnings before booking your trip to Tunisia.

Tunisia is located in North Africa on the Mediterranean coast. It is bordered by Algeria to the west and Libya to the southeast.

With a total land mass of 59,984 square miles/155,360 square kilometers, Tunisia is slightly larger than the state of Georgia. It is mountainous in the north and extends into the Sahara Desert in the south.

Capital City

The capital of Tunisia is Tunis, located in the far north of the country.

According to a CIA World Factbook estimate, Tunisia's population stood at just over 11.4 million people in July 2017.

The official language of Tunisia is Arabic. French acts as a language of commerce and is spoken by around two thirds of the population, while Berber is the principal language of the south.

Tunisia's official religion is Islam and approximately 99% of the population identify as Sunni Muslims. The remaining 1% is made up by Christians, Jews and Shia Muslims.

Tunisia's currency is the Tunisian dinar; for accurate exchange rates, use this online converter .

Northern Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The further south you go, the climate gets more arid; and in the southern desert, it is hot, dry and sunny all year round. Rainfall is almost non-existent, though winter nights in the desert can get chilly.

Tunisia is a year-round destination, but if you're heading to the north, the best weather occurs between May and October. In the Sahara, summers are typically scorching and those with a low tolerance for extreme heat may prefer to travel during the winter (November to February).

Key Attractions

With its safe, laid-back vibe and incredible heritage, Tunis is a great place to start your Tunisian adventure. Spend the day exploring the winding streets and souks of the medina, or admiring Roman ruins at nearby Carthage. The French Ville Nouvelle quarter has many excellent restaurants while the Bardo Museum houses some of the country's most famous ancient mosaics.

Sidi Bou Said

With its white domed houses and blue-painted doors, the clifftop town of Sidi Bou Said is Grecian in its beauty. Visitors come to admire panoramic Mediterranean views and to explore a plethora of art galleries, boutiques and open-air cafés. To discover the history behind Sidi Bou Said's unique architecture, visit the Neo-Moorish home of Baron Rodolphe d'Erlanger.

Grand Erg Oriental

Comprising 40,000 square kilometers of pristine desert, Tunisia's section of the Grand Erg Oriental is a wonderland of sweeping dunes and hidden oases. You can choose to explore by 4x4 or as people have done since Biblical times: on the back of a camel. Keep an eye out for rare desert wildlife and revel in the splendor of wilderness sunrises and sunsets.

A 2.5-hour drive south of Tunis takes you to El Jem, a Punic city that became an important center of commerce during Roman times. Today it is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, of which the most famous is the UNESCO-recognized Amphitheatre of El Jem. Built in the 3rd century, this magnificent monument once hosted 35,000 spectators.

Getting There

The main port of entry for most overseas visitors is the Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN), located in the capital. It is served by many different airlines including Tunisair, Air France, Lufthansa, EgyptAir and Royal Air Maroc. At this time, there are no direct flights to Tunis from the United States. Visitors from many countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand can enter without a visa for a stay of up to 90 days.

Medical Requirements

In addition to ensuring that your routine vaccines are up to date, the CDC recommends that travelers to Tunisia be vaccinated for hepatitis A and typhoid. Depending on your planned activities, some travelers may want to consider rabies and hepatitis B injections as well. There is no risk of malaria in Tunisia.

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ULTIMATE Tourist’s Guide to Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN)

The Tunis-Carthage International Airport is the main gateway for visitors entering the country.

Like many aspects of Tunisia, it can be a little confusing, and it’s hard to find reliable information about it online.

My wife Abi and I have lived in Tunisia for years, and we have flown in and out of the airport dozens and dozens of times. So with this post we want give you a “first timer’s” guide that will help you to feel confident to navigate the Airport, even if you don’t speak the local language.

Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN) has an official website, but like many governmental websites, it doesn’t answer some of the most basic questions about what you’ll actually experience when you travel. For example:

Are the signs written in English? How exactly do I get transportation to my hotel? How’s the customer service when something goes wrong?

I want to give you the straight answer to all of these questions.

Furthermore, there are some important tasks you’ll likely have to take care of at the airport. You’ll want to get some Tunisian Dinars, get your phone working, and possibly rent a car. I’ll let you know what to expect when doing these chores. Happy traveling!

What Airlines Fly to TUN?

You can get direct flights to TUN from all over Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. You can also fly from a few places in Sub-Saharan Africa, and Tunisair now has a non-stop flight to Montreal.

There are over 25 airlines that have flights to TUN. According to FlightConnections, the airlines with the most destinations from TUN as of Summer 2020 are:

The airlines TunisAir, Nouvelair, and TunisAir Express are all headquartered in Tunis.

If you’re flying from the UK, you will likely use Tunisair or Nouvelair. Nouvelair flies to Gatwick, and Tunisair flies to both Gatwick and Heathrow.

According to Flightradar24, the top 10 airports with the most flights from TUN are:

From Landing to Luggage

So, you land at the airport… what next?

Since Tunis-Carthage Airport is so small, it is really hard to get lost, especially on your way OUT of the building.

There is only one terminal that most passengers use. It’s big and round, and has a gates in different rooms branching off from a center room.

Are The Signs Written in English?

Yes, a few of them are. However, all signs are written in Arabic and French, so when you put together the French and the little pictures, you can make out what it means.

You can just follow the crowd from your plane to the Passport Control area where you will get your Tourist Stamp or present your Visa.

Do I Need a Visa?

Chances are, you are living in a country that does NOT require a Visa to enter Tunisia. About half of the world’s countries, including all Anglophone countries and all countries in the European Union do not need a Visa.

This means that you don’t have to prepare any documentation or get any kind of permission before you arrive in Tunisia. You just buy your ticket and show up.

Just to be sure, though, you should verify your country’s Visa status with Tunisia. Search Google for: “[your country] Tunisia visa.” Better to be safe than sorry.

Instead of getting a Visa, you will get what’s called a Tourist Stamp in your Passport when you arrive.

A Tourist Stamp is good for 90 or 120 days. The exact duration of a Tourist Stamp always changes. Different sources will confidently tell you that it’s 3 months or 4 months, but the only way to really know is to look at what your stamp actually says.

If your visit is going to last longer than 3 or 4 months and you don’t have a work or student Visa, you will have to leave the country and come back in order to get a new Tourist Stamp.

Getting Your Tourist Stamp

After a short walk from the terminal you’ll get to the Passport Control area with a long row of blue-green Passport Control booths.

You need to get a little white card to apply for your Tourist Stamp BEFORE you get in line!!! There are stacks of these little white cards around the pillars in this area.

Sometimes the flight attendants will pass these out on the plane, but usually they don’t. When you get to the Passport Control area, grab one of these little cards for now and a few more for later if there’s any chance you’ll enter Tunisia again.

The #1 Tip for saving time in this process is to BRING YOUR OWN PEN!

There are a limited number of pens in the area where people fill out their Tourist Stamps and people compete for them. You’ll save at least 10 minutes and possibly a half-hour if you just bring your own pen with you.

When you get to the Passport Control booth, show the person your Passport and be ready to say the purpose of your visit and possibly answer a few more basic questions. Then, you’re in!

Baggage Claim

After you get through the Passport control booths, you’ll go through some sliding glass doors into the baggage area.

Baggage claim at TUN is one big room with one long row of baggage carousels. There are monitors hanging from the ceiling that match your flight info with the correct baggage carousel.

If You Lose Your Luggage

If you are so unfortunate as to lose your luggage at TUN, the good news is that TUN is a small airport, so if and when your luggage does arrive, there’s only so many places it can be.

The bad news is that getting reunited with your luggage is likely going to be a little painful.

If your bags don’t come through, go to the desk to report your lost luggage. There are signs pointing to the right desk. Get as much information as you can about where your luggage is and what you need to do to retrieve it.

Make sure that you do not leave the Lost Luggage counter without documentation. You will want some documentation to help you get past security when you return to the Airport to retrieve your bag.

You should be able to get a tracking number for your specific bag from the Lost Luggage person. If for some reason you can’t get that, make sure you have at least some paper to show that you lost a bag.

Check the Lost Luggage tracking number online and remember to bring your documentation and passport with you when you go to pick it up at the Airport. As far as I know there is no service to deliver your lost bag to you.

When you return to the Airport get your luggage, be sure to have your Passport and your documentation with your luggage info on it. If you have a Tunisian friend, bring them with you.

How We Got Our Lost Luggage Back

Tunisia has a reputation for being chaotically disorganized while somehow at the same time being excessively bureaucratic. This stereotype is absolutely true of the Tunis-Carthage Airport.

When I flew into TUN one time and my bag didn’t make it, it was very easy for me to track my bag and to be at the Airport when it came in. (If I hadn’t been staying in the capital city, this would have been much more inconvenient.) The hard part, though, was getting into the area where I could retrieve it. I had to explain my problem to no less than 12 different Airport employees before getting my bag!

When I picked up my bag, they had me go into the storage room for Lost Luggage and pick out my bag. This storage room was a sight to behold. I was amazed to see that there were hundreds, maybe even thousands, of lost suitcases and other items back there. I don’t know if this is normal in other airports, but I went away thinking of all the poor souls who never saw their bags again!

My wife Abi’s experience was more positive. She hosted two ladies on a business trip one time, and both of their bags didn’t make their flight. The ladies got tracking numbers from the Lost Luggage desk. Abi came to the Airport when the bags got in, and she was able to get back into the Baggage Claim area without much hassle. She only had to show her Passport and her documentation.

Declare Items or Cash

If you bring in foreign currency that you’re going to exchange, you need to declare it with the officers in the Baggage Claim area before you exit. More about foreign currencies in the next section.

A guard may stop you before you leave the Baggage Claim area and search your baggage. This is normal.

Once you walk through the doors from the Baggage Claim room, you are outside of the security check. So don’t forget any of your belongings.

The first thing you’ll want to do when leaving the Baggage Claim area is to get some Tunisian Dinars.

You probably will not be able to get by in Tunisia using only a credit or debit card. I wrote about that more in depth in these posts: Using Debit and Credit Cards in Tunisia and Can You Use Dollars, Pounds, and Euros in Tunisia?

There are two ways to get Tunisian Dinars (TND) at the Airport: exchange your home currency for TND, or use an ATM.

1. Exchange Your Cash at a Bank

You can bring your USD, British Pounds, or just about any open currency and exchange it at a bank in the Airport for Tunisian Dinars.

There are several banks on the first floor of the Airport to choose from. I would peruse the exchange rates posted just to make sure that one bank isn’t giving a worse rate than another.

When exchanging your home currency to TND, remember this one rule: keep your receipt when exchange for Tunisian Dinars !!! Why? Tunisia is one of the roughly 25 countries in the world with a “closed currency”.

You can Google to learn more about what a closed currency is, but for our purposes here, it means that if you have Tunisian Dinars, you cannot convert them back into your home currency without a receipt.

So, make sure that you don’t walk away from a bank without a receipt, even if the bank teller forgets to give you one.

2. Withdraw TND From an ATM

If you didn’t bring a bunch of cash with you from your home country, you can easily use ATM’s throughout the country

I’ll try to explain the whole “foreign ATM” concept for a newbie traveler:

When you put in your American or British or whatever Debit Card into the ATM in a foreign country, you can withdraw foreign currency. In this case, Tunisian Dinars. You don’t have to have a special kind of account to do this.

There are several ATM’s at the Airport. If you’re going to be using an ATM, you might as well do it here.

While there are ATM’s just about everywhere you go in Tunisia, many of them do not work or are “temporarily” out of cash. Many times, when I have attempted a “quick run to the ATM”, it turned into an hour-long quest.

No matter where you are in Tunisia using an ATM, be watchful for pickpockets and keep an eye on your cash and cards at every second.

Dealing with Fees

One important factor when using an ATM in Tunisia is fees. All ATM’s in Tunisia will charge you a fee for every withdrawal. They are usually 8-10 Tunisian Dinars. On top of that, your bank may also give you a fee of another few dollars.

And, still on top of that, many ATM’s have a very low withdrawal limit. It seems like the standard limit is 300 Dinars (About $110), while some banks have a 600 or 800 TND limit.

So, if you are going to do much spending with Tunisian Dinars, you’ll be making a lot of withdrawals. And, if you don’t have a travel-friendly Debit Card, you may end up paying a LOT in unnecessary ATM fees!

One way around this is to use a Debit Card that reimburses ATM fees. We currently use a Charles Schwab card, and it’s amazing. I’ve also used a Capital One 360 Checking account before, and it worked fine too.

If you don’t have a Debit Card that will reimburse your ATM fees and you don’t want to get one, you may be better off bringing in cash and exchanging it at a bank, rather than relying on ATMs.

Get Your Phone Working

When I first came to Tunisia, it was the first time I used my iPhone internationally or switched a SIM card.

I would have benefitted from a “Dummy’s Guide” explanation of how the whole phone thing works. If you’re in that situation, here you go:

You can use your current cell phone in Tunisia. You’ll be able to make calls, send texts, use 3G and 4G–and it’s not that expensive. The best way to do this is to use a Tunisian SIM card.

You might as well buy your SIM card at the Airport because it’s going to be the same price as anywhere else, and the Airport has the same small selection of companies to choose from as anywhere else in the country.

Choose Your Phone Company

There are 3 big cellular companies in Tunisia, but to my knowledge, one of these, Tunisia Telecom, requires you to have residency in the country in order to get a SIM card with them.

That leaves you 2 options: Orange and Ooredoo. I’ve used them both and didn’t notice any difference in service or price. Ooredoo is currently the largest operator in Tunisia.

Orange and Ooredoo have kiosks in the Airport. I believe Orange has one in the Baggage Claim area as well as outside Baggage Claim on the first floor.

The Orange and Ooredoo kiosks accept Credit and Debit Cards, but they do NOT accept foreign currency.

Sometimes the telecom companies give out free SIM cards. Another time, if I remember right, I paid about 20 TND. You will have to show your Passport, so that they can register who holds each SIM card.

Pre-Pay to Use Your Phone  

Once you get your SIM card, you can now purchase minutes for phone calls, 3G / 4G data, and texting.

Pre-paid phone plans in Tunisia are not pricy. If in doubt, just put 10 or 20 TND on your phone. If you’re able to get on WIFI wherever you go, you may not use much 3G. However, I’ve noticed that hotels that say they have WIFI actually don’t have strong enough signal in your hotel room.

If you’re new pre-paid phone plans, this is how it works. First, you purchase some credit that will be applied to your account, i.e. your phone number.

Buying credit is easy. You can buy the credit from an Orange or Ooredoo kiosk in the Airport, or one of their brick and mortar stores, or from any little convenience shop or grocery store in the country.

When I say “buy credit” I mean you buy a little slip of paper or a scratch off card that has a code on it. You enter the code in your phone or scan the QR code into Orange or Ooredoo’s app. If you buy credit at an Orange or Ooredoo store or kiosk, they can apply it to your account for you, so you don’t have to type in any codes.

Secondly, after the credit is loaded to your account, you can select which particular services you want to buy with that money: data, minutes of calling, or texts.

You go about selecting these plans on your phone. The easiest way to do it is to download the Orange or Ooredoo app from your app store. Both of the apps work the same and they both have an English language option. Once you’re in the app, you can shop for plans depending on what services you’ll need.

If you’re not techie and don’t know anything about cell phone plans, I feel your pain. The simple solution is to just have the person at the Orange or Ooredoo kiosk choose a plan for you. Tell them what you plan to do with your phone, and they’ll take care of you. 

Transportation From the Airport

On the whole, the Tunis-Carthage Airport is very easy to access from anywhere in Tunis.

The Airport is located right in the middle of Tunis, so with good traffic conditions, you’re never that far away.

The only downside to the Airport’s menu of transportation options is that there are NO trains or metros that can get you to the Airport. 

Here are your options.  

1. Use one of the Non-Metered 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. 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 Metered 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. Then you can sign up for Bolt with your new Tunisian number and order your ride.

5. Take the City Bus  

This is the least glamorous option available. 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

Finally, 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. 

For more info about transportation options throughout Tunisia, see our in-depth post on the subject: How to Get Around in Tunisia .

Food and Drink

To Western tastes, the food options at the Tunis-Carthage Airport may be a little underwhelming. If you’re hungry enough for a full meal, my recommendation is to eat before you arrive or after you leave.

There are no big restaurant chains in TUN. And while the capital city has tons of great restaurants with traditional Tunisian food, none of them are present in the Airport.  

That being said, there are several places in the Airport where you can get Tunisian-style snacks and drinks.

Outside Security , there are two big cafes on the ground floor of the airport. One is called Cappuccino Resto & Café, and the other is called L’Amicale. They both offer little sandwiches. I bought a sandwich at Cappuccino once and regretted it. Both of these cafes take a few types of foreign currencies, but they do not accept Credit or Debit cards.

Inside Security and in the main terminal, there is a snack and coffee bar where I believe you can buy pre-made sandwiches. However, the last time I went through here and tried to buy something, the guy behind the counter said that they only accept Euros!

Info for Airport Nerds

The IATA Code for the Airport is TUN, and the ICAO code is DTTA.

The Tunis-Carthage Airport is run by a governmental organization called The Office of Civil Aviation and Airports .

These companies are the ground or cargo handlers:

• Tunisair Handling
• Lufthansa Cargo
• KARS International
• STARTS Airlines Services

These companies supply fuel and oil for TUN:

• Eni Aviation
• OilLibya Aviation

TUN has two runways. One is 2,840m and the other is 3,200m.

That just about sums up our guide to the Tunis-Carthage Airport. If you spend much time in Tunisia it will likely be the least memorable place you visit (or pass through).

We hope these tips help you navigate your way through Tunisia’s gateway. Have a great trip!

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Andy & Abi

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

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Tunisia.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Tunisia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Tunisia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Tunisia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Tunisia.

If rabies exposures occur while in Tunisia, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments . 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Tunisia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Tunisia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Tunisia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Tunisia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Tunisia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Tunisia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Tunisia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Tunisia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Tunisia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces.

Ready to travel?

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Can I travel to Tunisia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tunisia.

Can I travel to Tunisia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Tunisia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Tunisia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Tunisia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Tunisia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Tunisia.

Can I travel to Tunisia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Tunisia?

Mask usage in Tunisia is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Tunisia?

Restaurants in Tunisia are open. Bars in Tunisia are .

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Travel & Tourism set to inject TND 23bn. into Tunisia’s economy this year

WTTC’s 2024 Economic Impact Research highlights Tunisia’s Travel & Tourism sector poised to inject a record TND 23BN into the economy, with jobs and domestic spending also reaching new highs.

LONDON, UK – The World Travel & Tourism Council ’s ( WTTC ) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) has revealed that Tunisia ’s Travel & Tourism sector is set to inject a record-breaking TND 23bn. into the national economy this year. The latest data shows that across its economic contribution, job numbers, and domestic visitor spending, Travel & Tourism is expected to surpass in Tunisia all previous records this year. Although international visitor spending isn’t anticipated to fully recover this year, the global tourism body expects it will come within touching distance of the 2019 peak. According to the data, Travel & Tourism’s economic contribution will represent 14% of the overall economy this year, while sector jobs are projected to grow 3.9% year-on-year to reach almost 418,000 – accounting for one in nine jobs.

Domestic visitor spending in Tunisia is anticipated to grow 5% from last year to reach TND 11.7bn – 0.7% ahead of 2019. Although international visitor spending is expected to grow more than 12% to reach almost TND 11bn., this will still be nearly 9% behind 2019 levels.

Julia Simpson , WTTC President & CEO, said; “Tunisia’s Travel & Tourism sector has almost fully recovered, with domestic and sector-wide contributions exceeding all previous records. While international visitor spending is still catching up, we are confident that Tunisia’s resilient sector will continue to thrive and play a vital role in the nation’s economic future.”

The reestablishment of the Higher Council of Tourism by the Tunisian Government will further help Travel & Tourism achieve these forecasts as it brings together the public and private sector, ensuring collaboration across interested parties.

According to the latest research, the sector’s contribution to the GDP of Tunisia surged almost 24% year-on-year to reach nearly TND 21bn. Jobs supported by Travel & Tourism grew almost 10% to reach more than 402,000, representing almost 11.5% of jobs in the country. Domestic visitor spending increased more than 7% year-on-year to reach more than TND 11bn.

International visitor spending saw a strong 48.8% year-on-year growth last year, to reach TND 9.6bn, but this was still almost 19% behind the 2019 peak.

With the right government support, WTTC is forecasting that the sector could grow its annual GDP contribution to more than TND 32bn by 2034, representing 16% of Tunisia’s economy, and could potentially employ over 485,000 people across the country.

Across North Africa, the Travel & Tourism sector is forecast to contribute TND225.7bn to the regional economy this year, accounting for 8.5% of the total. Sector-supported jobs are expected to rise to 5.3m., representing 1 in 11 jobs across the region.

Domestic visitor spending is projected to reach TND97.5bn, whilst international visitor spending is anticipated to reach TND101.9bn this year.

Theodore Koumelis

Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.

• Theodore Koumelis https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/theodore-koumelis/ AmaWaterways opens reservations on all 2026 river cruises
• Theodore Koumelis https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/theodore-koumelis/ Pivot tapped to manage The Scarlet Hotel, Lincoln, a Tribute Portfolio hotel
• Theodore Koumelis https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/theodore-koumelis/ Antwerp Airport welcomed first flight to Oujda and prepares for Summer vacation
• Theodore Koumelis https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/theodore-koumelis/ Pebble Beach Company partners with Ship Sticks for seamless golf travel

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