Tunis, Tunisia

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Tunis, Tunisia

Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From its rich history to its vibrant culture, this Mediterranean metropolis has something for every traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the must-see places, activities, and experiences that make Tunis a unforgettable destination.

Places to Visit

  1. Medina of Tunis: The old city is a maze of narrow streets, bustling souks (markets), and ancient landmarks like the Great Mosque of Kairouan and the Zaytuna University. Explore the historic center and discover its rich history.
  2. Bardo Museum: Located just outside the medina, this museum houses an impressive collection of Roman mosaics, including some stunning examples from the 3rd century AD.
  3. Carthage National Museum: Visit the ancient city of Carthage, a former Phoenician trading post that was once the capital of the powerful Punic Empire.
  4. Port of La Marsa: This picturesque beachside promenade is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a leisurely lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants.
  5. Dar El-Annabi Museum: Discover the beautiful traditional architecture and stunning gardens of this 18th-century palace, which now serves as a museum.

Activities

  1. Explore the Souks: Wander through the bustling markets and haggle with vendors for everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
  2. Take a Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional Tunisian dishes like couscous and shawarma at a local cooking school.
  3. Visit the Beaches: Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at one of Tunisia’s many beautiful beaches, such as La Marsa or Sidi Bou Said.
  4. Hike in the Hills: Explore the scenic hills surrounding Tunis on a guided hike and enjoy breathtaking views of the city below.
  5. Attend a Festival: Tunisia has a rich cultural calendar, with festivals like the International Carthage Festival celebrating music, theater, and dance.

Where to Eat

  1. Chez Makhlouf: This family-run restaurant serves delicious traditional Tunisian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  2. Le Grand Cafe: Enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner at this stylish cafe, which offers a range of international dishes.
  3. La Table de la Medina: Savor the flavors of North Africa and Europe at this charming restaurant located within the medina walls.
  4. Cafe des Nattes: This historic cafe has been serving coffee and pastries since 1911 and is a must-visit for any traveler.
  5. Tunisian Street Food: Don’t miss out on the delicious street food, including shawarma, falafel, and brik (deep-fried pastry).

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel La Badira: This luxury hotel offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and is located near the beach.
  2. Hotel Le Diplomatique: Enjoy elegant rooms and a range of amenities at this stylish hotel in the heart of Tunis.
  3. Hotel Dar El-Annabi: Experience traditional Tunisian hospitality at this historic palace-turned-hotel, which offers stunning gardens and beautiful architecture.
  4. Airbnb Options: Rent a cozy apartment or room within the medina walls for an authentic local experience.
  5. Tunisian Hostels: Stay in one of the many affordable hostels scattered throughout the city.

Things to Know

  1. Language: Arabic is the official language, but French and Tunisian dialects are also widely spoken.
  2. Currency: The Tunisian dinar (TND) is the local currency, although euros and US dollars are widely accepted.
  3. Weather: Enjoy mild winters and warm summers in this Mediterranean climate.
  4. Safety: Tunisia is generally a safe country for tourists, but take normal precautions to protect yourself from petty theft or scams.
  5. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.

Transportation

  1. Walking: Explore the medina on foot and discover its hidden alleys and charming streets.
  2. Taxi: Hail a taxi or book one in advance for transportation within the city.
  3. Bus: Use the public bus system to travel between neighborhoods or to the beachside towns like La Marsa or Sidi Bou Said.
  4. Metro: Enjoy a convenient and efficient way to get around the city with the modern metro system.
  5. Car Rental: Rent a car for a day or longer to explore the surrounding countryside or take a road trip.

Tips

  1. Haggle: Don’t be afraid to haggle at markets or with vendors – it’s part of the local culture!
  2. Learn Some Arabic: Show respect and appreciation for the local language by learning basic phrases like “hello” (مرحبا, marhaba) and “thank you” (شكرا, shukraan).
  3. Dress Modestly: Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the hot summer months.
  5. Enjoy Yourself: Relax and enjoy the laid-back Tunisian atmosphere – you’re on vacation, after all!

Bonus Tips

  1. Visit the nearby cities: Explore the charming coastal towns like Hammamet or Mahdia for a taste of Tunisia’s rich history and culture.
  2. Take a Sahara desert tour: Experience the thrill of traversing the vast expanses of sand dunes in southern Tunisia.
  3. Enjoy the local music: Listen to the infectious rhythms of Tunisian folk music and dance, which is an integral part of local culture.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive guide to traveling in Tunis, Tunisia! With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Tunis is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Happy exploring!