Tunis, the vibrant capital of Tunisia, blends ancient history, lively souks, fascinating museums, and modern city life. In this Tunis Travel Guide, you’ll find top attractions in Tunis, such as the old Medina, the Bardo Museum, and picturesque Sidi Bou Said, and cultural advice to help you plan your trip.
Where to stay in Tunis?
We stayed two nights in the Hotel Carlton, a 10-minute walk from the Tunis Medina. Perfect to explore the city!
Top things to do in Tunis
1) Tunis Medina UNESCO Heritage market
Medina means old city, and it is usually enclosed in the city walls. The Tunis Medina (7th century) has the Zitouna Mosque as the center. The city was a crucial religious place for the Islamic world until the 16th century. Go see architectural sites like Zitouna Mosque, Sidi Yousef Mosque, Hammouda Pacha Mosque, Bad El Bhar (French Gate, as it recalls the Triumph Arch in Paris), Bab Jadid, Bab Saadoun, and Bab El Khadra. The souks are shopping paradises, but don´t forget to bargain.
Where to eat? Eat in the Souk at Fondouk El Attarine. Eat some Couscous, Brik, Lablabi, or Bamablouni.
2) El Kef
El Kef was the capital of the country during the Second World War. The city is on top of a hill in the Jebel Dyr Mountain, and it is the highest town in Tunisia. Go check out the ruins of the Roman baths, the basilica Dar El Kous, the Synagogue of the Ghriba, the Kasbah, and the Mausoleum of Ali Turkie.
3) Sidi Bou Said
It is located 20km northeast of Tunis, very close to Carthage. The blue city is like a beautiful postcard view of white houses with blue doors and windows, a mix of Arab and Andalusian styles. Make sure to eat a Bambalouni once you’re there!
Places to visit: Thameur Habib (main street), Ras Qatarjamah lighthouse, Mersa beach, view from Sidi Chabaane Dar Nejma Ezzahra Palace (includes Centre of Arab and Mediterranean Music), Museum Dar el-Annabi (visit a real local house), terrace view of Dar el-Ennabi house museum, and Mosque Abu Said al.
4) Kelibia Castle
Kelibia is a town on the Cap Bon peninsula. It was founded by the Carthaginians and was later occupied by the Romans. The town is well-known for its idyllic beaches of white sand and clear blue water. Mansoura Beach is the most beautiful sand beach in town. If you visit Kelibia, you must try the traditional Muscat of Kélibia, a fruity white wine highly appreciated in the country.
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5) Carthage
For a long time, Carthage and Rome fought for their supremacy over the Mediterranean Sea, but eventually, the Romans took over Carthage and destroyed the city on a large scale. The ruins we see today are from that Roman civilization that rebuilt the city after the destruction.
Go check out the Antoninus baths, the aqueduct, the theater, Tophet, the Roman villas, Byrsa Hill, the main Carthage Museum, and the Cathedral.
6) Kerkuane and its Necropolis
Kerkouane is the most well-preserved UNESCO Punic town in North Africa. When the Romans occupied Punic places, they would usually rebuild the towns, thus erasing the previous legacy. Kerkouane was abandoned after the destruction of the Second Punic War and was dug out from the sand in 1950.
7) Dougga ancient Roman city
Dougga is an ancient Roman city, located in the mountains in the fertile plains of Oued Khalled. Go check out the Theater, the Capitol, the Punic-Libyan Mausoleum, and the temples of Saturn and Juno.
What to pack for Tunis?
Make sure to bring these top 5 items on your trip to Hurghada:
- Snorkel set: for seeing all the fish and coral in the sea
- Camera: to take amazing photos of your trip!
- Sunscreen: don’t get sunburned when visiting Egyptian temples!
- Microfiber towel: compact towel to take everywhere with you & that dries quickly!
- Hat or cap: for sun protection
Use my ultimate packing list to have everything in your luggage for your trip.
Transportation in Tunis
Popular transport to travel within Tunis includes minibuses, buses, taxis, and private drivers. We used taxis in Tunis and a private driver to move us to Sousse, Djerba, and the South of Tunisia.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Tunis
✈️ Best time to travel to Tunis?
The best times to travel to Tunisia are spring, summer, & autumn (April to November). The summer months are very hot, hence overnight stays in the middle of the Sahara Desert are not available (you can still do day trips into the desert). I visited Tunisia in both May and August, and it was just lovely weather!
🕒 How many days do you need for a road trip in Tunisia?
The ideal stay is 2-3 days. A 2-day visit allows for a quick, highlights-focused trip, while 3 days provide a more relaxed pace to include Sidi Bou Said.
🛟 Is it safe in Tunisia?
Yes, it’s generally safe for travelers. Always stay vigilant for pickpockets or scams & dress appropriately where needed (mosques).
What can I see in the Tunis Medina?
The Medina is a 295-hectare UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Medina is a vibrant labyrinth featuring over 700 historic monuments, bustling souks, madrasas, and rooftop cafes.
Must eat: Bambalouni!! Love it (& the beautiful city of Sidi Bou Said. So much history in Tunis. Great must do’s!
Thyanks Lisa! I was also immediately sold to the Bambalouni in Sidi Bou Said! 😍
I really loved Sidi Bou Said! It’s a must visit if you go to Tunis!
I think so too!