Tunis, Tunisia

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Tunis, Tunisia

Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient ruins to bustling souks, delicious cuisine to stunning beaches, Tunis has something for every kind of traveller. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and essential tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Places to Visit

Ancient Ruins and Historical Landmarks

  • Carthage: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Carthage is an ancient city founded by the Phoenicians in 814 BC. Explore the ruins of the Punic Ports, the Acropolis, and the Amphitheater.
  • Bardo Museum: Home to one of the world’s largest collections of Roman mosaics, this museum is a must-visit for history buffs.
  • Kasbah: The old fortified city of Tunis, Kasbah offers stunning views of the medina (old city) and is home to many historic landmarks like the Mosque of the Kasbah.

Medina (Old City)

  • Souk el Attarine: One of the oldest souks in Tunis, this bustling marketplace is perfect for shopping, eating, and soaking up the local atmosphere.
  • Dar Ben Abdallah Museum: This 18th-century palace turned museum showcases traditional Tunisian architecture and offers insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Mosque de la Kasbah: A beautiful mosque built in the 17th century, its stunning architecture is a must-see.

Beaches and Nature Reserves

  • La Marsa: A popular beach town just outside Tunis, La Marsa offers beautiful beaches, water sports, and a lively atmosphere.
  • Cape Bon: Located about an hour from Tunis, Cape Bon is known for its stunning natural beauty, including beaches, forests, and cliffs.
  • Ichkeul National Park: A protected area of natural beauty, Ichkeul is home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as ancient ruins.

Other Attractions

  • Avenue Habib Bourguiba: The main street of Tunis, this bustling avenue is lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants.
  • Grand Mosque of Tunis: A beautiful mosque built in the 7th century, it’s one of the oldest and most important in Tunisia.
  • Tunis Zoo: Home to over 500 animals from around the world, the zoo is a great place for families.

Activities

Cultural Experiences

  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Tunisian dishes like couscous, shakshuka, and brik.
  • Attend a Sufi music performance: Experience the spiritual side of Tunisia with a live Sufi music show.
  • Visit a local market: Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of a traditional Tunisian souk.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Go hiking or biking: Explore the beautiful countryside around Tunis with a guided hike or bike tour.
  • Take a boat trip: Visit the nearby islands of Menzel Bourguiba or Kelibia for snorkelling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach.
  • Play golf: Tee off at one of Tunis’ many golf courses, like the Golf de Carthage.

Wellness and Relaxation

  • Visit a traditional hammam: Unwind with a rejuvenating steam bath and massage at one of Tunis’ many hammams.
  • Take a yoga class: Find your inner peace with a yoga session at one of the city’s many studios.
  • Relax on the beach: Soak up the sun and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea views at one of Tunis’ many beautiful beaches.

Where to Eat

Traditional Tunisian Cuisine

  • Dar El Jeld: A beautifully restored 17th-century palace turned restaurant, serving traditional dishes like couscous and shakshuka.
  • Le Grand Cafe: This historic cafe has been serving coffee and delicious pastries since 1885.
  • La Mamma: Try their famous brik (a Tunisian savory pastry) at this popular eatery.

International Cuisine

  • L’Auberge du Lac: This lakeside restaurant serves French-inspired cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • The English Pub: A popular spot for expats and locals alike, serving classic pub grub like burgers and fish ’n’ chips.
  • Sakura: For a taste of Asia in Tunis, head to Sakura for delicious sushi and Japanese dishes.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • The Residence Tunis: A 5-star hotel with stunning views of the medina, offering luxurious rooms and suites.
  • Le Royal Victoria: This historic hotel has been hosting guests since 1906 and offers elegant rooms and a beautiful garden.
  • Hotel Africa: Located in the heart of Tunis, this 5-star hotel features modern rooms and a rooftop pool.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Hostel La Medina: A social hostel with dorms and private rooms, offering a great atmosphere and helpful staff.
  • Dar Ya: A beautifully restored traditional Tunisian house turned guesthouse, offering cozy rooms at an affordable price.
  • Hotel les Oliviers: A simple but clean and comfortable hotel with a lovely garden, perfect for budget-conscious travellers.

Things to Know

Language

  • Arabic is the official language of Tunisia, but many locals also speak French, Italian, and English.

Currency

  • The Tunisian dinar (TND) is the local currency, although euros and US dollars are widely accepted.

Safety

  • As with any city, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like souks.

Dress Code

  • Tunisia is a conservative country, so dress modestly when visiting mosques or rural areas. In tourist areas, you can wear more relaxed clothing.

Tipping

  • Tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service.

Transportation

Getting There

  • Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN): Located about 7 km from the city centre, the airport receives flights from around Europe and Africa.
  • Bus: Tunis has a comprehensive bus network connecting it to other cities in Tunisia.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport and around the city.

Getting Around

  • Metro: Tunis has a modern metro system with two lines covering much of the city.
  • Bus: An extensive network of buses covers most areas of the city.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to agree on a price before you start your journey.

Tips

Haggling

  • Haggling is an art in Tunisia, so be prepared to negotiate prices at souks and markets.

Respect Local Customs

  • Remove your shoes when entering mosques or traditional homes.
  • Dress modestly when visiting rural areas or attending cultural events.

Learn Some Arabic Phrases

  • Greet locals with “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) and respond with “Wa alaykum as-salam” (and peace be upon you too).

Other Things of Interest

Festivals and Events

  • Tunis International Film Festival: A celebration of cinema from around the world, held annually in November.
  • Carthage Jazz Festival: Enjoy live jazz performances by local and international artists, usually held in July.
  • Tunisia’s Independence Day: Celebrate Tunisia’s independence from France on March 20th with parades, music, and traditional food.

Day Trips

  • Dougga: Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Dougga, about an hour’s drive from Tunis.
  • Utique: Visit this charming coastal town about an hour from Tunis, known for its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks.
  • Kairouan: Head to this holy city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 2 hours from Tunis, famous for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Conclusion

Tunis, Tunisia is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored. From ancient ruins to bustling souks, delicious cuisine to stunning beaches, this guide has provided you with the ultimate resource for planning your trip. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing on the beach, Tunis has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!