Ultimate Tunisia Travel Guide: Top Tips and Must-Do Experiences

This post may have affiliate links, where I may receive a commission if you purchase through them. Here's our Disclosure and Privacy Policy for more info.

Ready to learn everything you need to know about Tunisia? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a comprehensive blog post put together by Evan Edler (a Global Viewpoint writer) and myself. Altogether, we have visited all parts of the country to bring you this ultimate travel guide and itinerary for 2025.

Imagine yourself wandering through sunlit, narrow streets, where blue shutters and flowers spill over whitewashed walls. Around you, the scents of spices fill the air from lively souks, and just down the road, the Mediterranean sparkles like a hidden gem. Tunisia has this incredible way of blending ancient wonders with laid-back coastal vibes.

I’ve trekked through the Sahara’s golden dunes, climbed mountaintop fortresses, and savored North African flavors in tucked-away cafes. Tunisia is a mix of adventure, history, and untouched beaches. So if you’re ready to explore Roman ruins, medinas, and landscapes that feel otherworldly, this guide has you covered.

👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing a private guided tour to Tunis, Carthage, and Sidi Bousaid. You’ll get to explore historic UNESCO sites, taste authentic Tunisian cuisine, and wander through the magical streets of the medina—all with the ease of a local guide showing you the best spots. This tour is an absolute must-do on a Tunisia itinerary in my opinion.

MUST DO TOURS IN TUNISIA

Tunisia Travel Guide: Highlights at a Glance

Ready to explore Tunisia? From historic ruins to pristine beaches, here’s your quick guide to everything you need to know. Use these links to jump to each section for easy reference:

Where Tunisia Is Located: Find out Tunisia’s location, neighboring countries, and best ways to get there.
Best Time to Visit: Tunisia’s weather varies by season. Get tips on when to visit for beach days or desert trips.
Top Cultural Sites: Explore Tunisia’s blend of ancient ruins, coastal towns, and unique attractions in Why You Should Go to Tunisia and Top Stops in Tunisia.
Hidden Gems: Go beyond the usual spots with off-the-beaten-path destinations like Takrouna Village and Ichkeul National Park.
Where to Stay: Find your perfect base, whether in vibrant city centers or beach resorts. Check out our top stays in Tunisia.
Getting Around: Make travel simple with tips on navigating Tunisia, from buses to car rentals.

This is just a quick snapshot of what’s to come. Keep reading to discover all my tops tips and must-do activities in Tunisia in 2025.

_{Guest Post by Evan Edler}

Where is Tunisia?

Tunisia is the northernmost country in Africa. It’s nestled between Algeria and Libya with its coastline straddling the Mediterranean Sea. These large neighbors make Tunisia seem somewhat tiny, but it’s larger than most European nations.

Map of Tunisia — Tunisia map | Source: worldatlas.com

Tunis, the bustling capital, sits on the Gulf of Tunis in the northern part of Tunisia. The area around Tunis is verdant and mountainous. Going south, the landscape becomes increasingly arid, and the southern half of the country belongs to the Sahara Desert. Its location makes Tunisia a great connection between Europe and Africa, perfect for travelers going in either direction. Tunis is easily reachable by direct flights from major cities in Europe, including Italy, France, and Spain. It also has flights to much of Africa and the Middle East. Tunisair is the national airline of Tunisia, which provides excellent service to (and around) this country.

Best time to visit Tunisia in 2025

Tunisia is an amazing year-round destination, but the experiences you can do will vary greatly depending on the season and region. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan when to visit:

Best for Beach Lovers: Late spring (May) or early fall (September).
Best for Desert Explorers: Winter and early spring (December to March).
Best for Festivals and Cultural Events: Summer (Carthage Festival), Fall (Douz Sahara Festival).

And now, I’ll share some more details on when to visit Tunisia by season…

Spring (March to May): Ideal Weather for Exploration

Weather: Mild temperatures, averaging 15-25°C (59-77°F), and blooming wildflowers.
Where to Go: Perfect for coastal cities like Tunis and Sidi Bou Said, where you’ll enjoy the Mediterranean scenery without the intense summer heat. The Sahara is also more comfortable to explore now.
Events: Medina Festival in Tunis in April celebrates Tunisian culture with music, dance, and theater.
Who It’s Best For: Those interested in sightseeing, cultural exploration, and mild weather without large tourist crowds.

Summer (June to August): Hot and Bustling

Weather: Temperatures soar, especially in the south, with coastal areas reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F) and the Sahara often exceeding 40°C (104°F).
Where to Go: Stick to the Mediterranean coast—Hammamet, Djerba, and Sousse are at their liveliest with beach parties and coastal breezes, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Events: Carthage International Festival (July-August) near Tunis brings music, dance, and theater performances from around the world.
Who It’s Best For: Beach lovers and festival-goers. For sightseeing, expect more crowds, and avoid the inland and desert areas, where it’s too hot for comfort.

Fall (September to November): Perfect Balance of Comfort and Culture

Weather: Cooling down with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). Coastal waters remain warm from summer’s heat, making it a great time for beach activities.
Where to Go: Almost anywhere! Tunis, Carthage, Tozeur, and the Sahara Desert are particularly lovely. Fall is also the start of the desert tourism season, so it’s perfect for exploring oasis towns and the dunes.
Events: The Douz Sahara Festival (late November) in the desert town of Douz celebrates Bedouin culture with camel races, music, and traditional sports.
Who It’s Best For: Those who want pleasant weather for a mix of beach relaxation, desert adventures, and cultural festivals. Fall is the sweet spot for avoiding the intense summer crowds and temperatures.

Winter (December to February): Quiet Season with Desert Appeal

Weather: Cooler temperatures, especially in the north and mountains (8-15°C or 46-59°F), but pleasantly mild along the coast. Desert nights can drop below freezing, so pack accordingly.
Where to Go: Sahara Desert—this is peak season for desert tours, with the cooler weather making it more manageable. Kairouan and Matmata are also great for cultural explorations, as the crowds are lighter, and prices are lower.
Events: International Festival of the Sahara in Douz (December) highlights Saharan traditions with camel races and nomadic dances.
Who It’s Best For: Travelers interested in desert activities, fewer crowds, and lower prices. While not ideal for beachgoers, it’s a wonderful season for photography and cultural immersion.

Why should you go to Tunisia?

Still need convincing before you book your flights to Tunisia? Before we dive deeper into this Tunisia travel guide, let’s first cover why you should visit the country in the first place.

It’s a budget-friendly Mediterranean destination

Looking for some R&R? Dreaming of sunbathing on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea in Spain or Italy? Think again! Tunisia boasts a vast selection of coastal destinations, ranging from rural hideaways to busier spots in the capital of Tunis.

Imagine five-star resorts with modern rooms, private beaches, spas, and more amenities than you can count. Now, here’s the kicker: Cut the price tag in half without sacrificing any of the frills. My stay at a 4-star resort in Hammamet cost less than hotels in many European cities, and was absolutely luxurious.

Tunisia travel guide: Mediterranean beach on the coast of Tunisia. — Tunisia’s long coastline boasts countless pristine beaches and resorts on the Mediterranean!

Tunisia is a cultural crossroads

Tunisia’s national identity is compiled from years of influence from various ruling powers, making for a fascinating case study in ancient and modern history. Much of the country’s current culture stems from the rule of Muslim and Arabic forces. Therefore, Islam has a strong hold as the primary religion in Tunisia. Islamic values account for many of the country’s customs, thus connecting Tunisia with its neighbors.

However, Tunisia is considered more liberal and developed than other African nations. This is, in part, due to the country being under French rule from 1881-1956. The legacy of French rule remains, with French still being widely spoken in modern society. As such, Tunisia serves as a bridge between the cultures of Europe and Africa, with its own unique touch. The people of Tunisia are welcoming and friendly, which adds to the appeal of visiting Tunisia.

A wide range of wonders

Travelers who venture off the beaten path into the heart of Tunisia will be rewarded on all fronts. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Tunisia that it’s hard to narrow down the top spots. This includes the beautiful Sidi Bou Said reminiscent of Santorini, the intense desert landscapes that played host to Luke Skywalker, and even the largest Roman amphitheater in Africa. These attractions make for a memorable travel experience that’s tough to rival.

Sidi Bou Said is a charming town in Northern Tunisia

You’ll be the first of your friends to explore Tunisia

For trailblazers, this one of the best reasons to visit Tunisia. It is practically untouched by tourists, and I don’t think this will be the case for long.

As the tourism industry booms, I’m sure this hidden gem won’t remain hidden. But with so much to offer and its convenient location, it’s bound to become a mainstream travel destination soon. So, enjoy bragging rights that you went before it becomes popular!

Should you visit Tunisia or Morocco?

When American and European travelers make their first leap into Africa, the natural choice is often Tunisia’s western cousin, Morocco. After all, it’s a beautiful country – deeply rich in culture and history, and is sure to make a wonderful trip for any tourist. However, I’m going to argue that Tunisia beats out Morocco in a few ways. In my experience, Morocco is flooded with tourists while Tunisia is not – which has many benefits from a tourism perspective.

In Tunisia, there are fewer tourist traps on the streets and in the Medinas, giving the cities a more authentic and immersive feel. Another consequence of this is that Tunisia is significantly more affordable, and everything from food and drink to accommodation is cheaper. In fact, various sources put the cost of living in Tunisia at anywhere from 20% to 40% less expensive than that of Morocco. Not too shabby!

Stop sign in Tunisia with arabic and english writing. — Signs in Tunisia are frequently written in both Arabic and French, and occasionally English.

Logistical guide to Tunisian travel: money, language, etc.

With significant influence from both Africa and Europe, some of the specific details of travel in Tunisia can seem confusing. Let’s get into the nuts and bolts of it!

Currency in Tunisia:

When in Tunisia, you’ll be using the Tunisian Dinar. At the time of writing this the Tunisian Dinar is worth 0.31 Euros, so a conversion rate of about 3 Dinar to 1 Euro or US Dollar is a good estimate. Instead of 100s, like the Euro and Dollar, the Dinar is divided into 1,000s (milim), and coins range from 1 milim to 5 dinar, and banknotes go up to 50.

Souvenirs in Tunisia are cheap thanks to the favorable currency and exchange rate

Changing money in Tunisia:

The Tunisian Dinar is considered a “closed currency,” which essentially means it’s illegal for the currency to leave the country. That’s easier for you! Don’t worry about cash until you get there. You can exchange cash at hotels, banks, and other places at a government fixed rate, or you can use ATMs at risk of a small fee.

Language in Tunisia:

Tunisia’s singular official language is Modern Standard Arabic. However, the country’s linguistic landscape is much more diverse than it may appear on paper. The dialect of Arabic spoken in Tunisia is called Tunisian Arabic, also known as Derja. Due to the country’s colonization by France, French is also spoken by over half of the population, especially in large cities and tourist destinations.

Power outlets in Tunisia:

Both type C and type E power adapters will work in Tunisia – so adapters for mainland Europe among other places can be used!

Time in Tunisia:

Tunisia is in the Central European Time Zone, the same as major cities such as Paris, Berlin, and Rome. However, Tunisia does not observe Daylight Savings. This means that in the summer, when much of Europe sets their clocks forward, Tunisia is in line with the UK & Ireland.

Trying to figure out the best ways to book and plan your next trip?

What’s the weather like in Tunisia?

Tunisia’s climate is relatively predictable, which makes it easy for travelers to pack and prepare. Along the coast, and in the north, it follows the same patterns as most other Mediterranean spots. Winters are warm, and summers are (very) hot. Late autumn and winter are the rainiest season, with spring and summer being quite arid.

Further south, Tunisia’s climate falls in line with its desert landscape. In hotter seasons the desert can exceed 38°C or 100°F, and is prone to sandstorms. Overall, any trip to Tunisia is going to be warm, so you’ll want to leave behind your jackets and bring lightweight clothing – and sunscreen.

Looking to cool off after a hot trip to Tunisia? Read next: Top Cold Plunge Tubs

Tunisia has a warm Mediterranean climate

The history of Tunisia

This Tunisia travel guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the history of the country. Here, we’ll look at the history of Tunisia starting in the 12th century BCE. Before then, the area (like the rest of North Africa) was inhabited by native populations known as Berbers. In the 12th century, Phoenician peoples (coming from modern-day Lebanon), began to arrive and create their own settlements. One of these settlements was known as Carthage.

By the 7th century BCE, Carthage emerged as the most powerful kingdom in the region. It was wealthy and powerful, and rivaled Rome in guts and glory until the 1st century BCE, when the Romans took Carthage. As a result, they introduced Christianity to the region, and left behind numerous Roman sites that remain to this day.

The Roman rule of Carthage crossed into the centuries AD, and remained until the Muslims conquered the land in the 7th century AD. This brought Islamic and Arabic culture to the land, which remains a major cornerstone of Tunisian culture. They retained rule until the Ottoman Empire conquered it in 1546. The Ottomans ruled over Tunisia for the next 300 years.

Carthage museum at night in Carthage, recommended in this Tunisia travel guide — Once one of the most powerful peoples on the Mediterranean, Carthage is now home to ruins found in the Carthage museum!

Tunisia’s more recent history

In 1881, the Ottoman Empire was weakening, and the French conquered Tunisian lands. Starting in 1942, Tunisia was taken by the German forces of the Second World War. It was the site of a 6 month campaign between the Axis and Allied forces, and the Allied victory marked the end of WWII’s battles in Africa. Independence was finally granted to the new Tunisian Republic in 1956.

The country of Tunisia was led by various rulers until a decline in living and working conditions led to the 2011 Tunisian Revolution. This period of civil unrest caused an upheaval of the political system. Since then, Tunisia has been led by a democratically elected president, and has adopted a constitution granting Tunisian women more rights than most other African populations.

Tunisia tourism is growing by leaps and bounds

What’s the mythology of Tunisia’s past?

Not into the historical nuts and bolts? Here’s the mythological retelling of Tunisia’s history. If you’re a fan of Greek and Roman history or mythology, you’ve probably heard of Carthage. The city-state of Carthage was a rival of Athens and Rome for centuries, but was an important part of their mythology.

Let’s take a look at Carthage through the lens of one of the most important mythological texts: The Aeneid, Virgil’s epic poem. The Aeneid tells the story of the hero Aeneas, whose adventures throughout the Mediterranean lead to the foundation of the city of Rome. In the Aeneid, Aeneas meets and falls in love with Dido, the Queen of Carthage.

Dido fled her family and found herself in North Africa, where she decided to start a kingdom of her own. Legend has it that she made a deal with a local king. He gave her a bull’s hide, and said that she could rule the land that it covered. Clever as she was, Dido strung the hide out into a thin string, and encircled a large portion of land on the coast. This land was to become her very own kingdom of Carthage – and much later on, Tunisia!

It's hard to imagine what Carthage must've been like — It’s hard to imagine what Carthage must’ve been like

Where should you go in Tunisia?

You’ve decided to head to Tunisia and want to make sure you see all of the key sites in the country. Where do you start? Well, with this travel guide to the best destinations in Tunisia!

Tunis

Tunisia’s most accessible and most popular spot is also one of its best – the nation’s capital, Tunis! Tunis itself has lots of important sites and easy day trips, so let’s get into them! This travel guide will cover some of the best sights and activities in Tunisia’s lively capital, but there is plenty more to explore.

Medina

Tunis’s Medina is one of the most famous in Africa, and for good reason. It is a seemingly endless maze of shops and stalls (partially covered). This makes it easy to dive into the heart of the Medina, because the area will envelop you – just make sure you’re able to find a way out!

Here in the Medina of Tunis, you’ll find clothes, food stalls, and more. My favorite stop was the rooftop of a carpet shop with unbeatable views of the surrounding city. It’s not uncommon for people on the street to offer you rooftop views for a small fee – for the views and the architecture (photo opportunities, anyone?) I’d say it’s definitely worth it!

Sidi Bou Said

When asking for recommendations for my trip to Tunisia, the first thing anyone said was to go to Sidi Bou Said. And it’s not hard to see why! Sidi Bou Said is a neighborhood of Tunis just a train ride away from downtown, but it feels like a different world. Its white stones and blue accents make it a sister to Santorini or Mykonos.

The streets overflow with with tourist shops offering handmade goods, and every turn is more picturesque than the last. Highlights of this stop include Museum Dar El-Annabi, a wealthy household turned into a beautiful museum with great views, and the Café des Délices, a wonderful restaurant with immaculate views over the coast.

Cafe des Delices in Sidi Bou Said, Tunis — What more could you ask for than great food and great views? Find both in Sidi Bou Said!

Carthage

Another neighborhood within Tunis, and also reachable by train, Carthage is well worth a trip. The neighborhood is gorgeous, and I highly recommend spending some time strolling the old town, admiring the architecture and the flowers. The most important site here is the archeological attractions of Byrsa Hill. A short walk up this hilltop will lead you to the stunning facade of the Acropolium church. Behind lies the Carthage National Museum, with ancient ruins on the property. With its incredible architecture and ambiance, it’s no wonder Carthage is a huge part of Tunisia tourism.

Other top stops in Tunisia Sousse

Sousse is a coastal city, the third-largest in Tunisia. It’s one of the most popular resort areas in the country where you can find any luxury you desire. It balances beach vibes with a historical town center, where you can see architecture and art to your heart’s content. Hammamet may be a better bet for a strictly beach vacation, but Sousse’s cultural advantage is worth considering to get the best of both worlds.

Sousse, Tunisia is a must-see tourist destination

El Djem

Widely considered to be the third-largest Roman amphitheater ever built, the El Djem (alternatively spelled El Jem) is a site worth seeing. It rivals the Colosseum in Rome, but without the crowds of tourists. You can get to the amphitheater on guided tours or on your own from nearby cities like Sfax or Monastir (also worth trips in their own rights). If you’re using guided travel groups in Tunisia, make sure to stop here!

The Amphitheatre El Jem is a classic example of Roman architecture in Tunisia — The Amphitheatre of El Jem is a classic example of Roman architecture in Tunisia

Kairouan

Tunisians have a strong pride for this city, as it’s the fourth-holiest in Islam. Kairouan is a site of pilgrimage, and in the Islam faith seven trips to Kairouan can equal one trip to Mecca. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. The main attraction is its medina and its numerous mosques. The city also hosts incredible architecture and is a popular shopping destination – especially for carpets.

Check out some of the other top historical sites in the world!

The Sahara

For travelers who have not yet been to the African continent, the Sahara Desert may seem like a dream destination. Tunisia’s claim of the Saharan landscape is a great asset to its tourism industry, and you should take advantage of it! The best way to see the desert is to take an organized tour throughout the desert. Any good tour will show you some natural wonders, local culture, and probably some filming sites for the Star Wars movies!

Travel Guide within Tunisia: How to get around

Trying to figure out how to get around Tunisia? The country’s bus and train networks are expansive, and are well worth a look. They can also be overwhelming (especially for travelers who can’t read a lick of Arabic). But there are plenty of other ways to get around this small country.

Firstly, if you plan to do an organized tour, they should account for all transportation, which is nice if you’re not keen on figuring it out yourself. Though the most reliable and comfortable way to travel is by car. You’ll find car rental companies in Tunis and in other large cities.

You can also hire cabs and private drivers. While more expensive than other options, they are cheaper when compared to other countries. And best of all – you’ll get a lot of bang for your buck without the stress of navigating Tunisian traffic.

Tunisian train station with white and blue architecture. — Tunis’s train network is an easy way to get around in the city and to suburbs like Sidi Bou Said or Carthage!

What to eat in Tunisia

The most popular food in Tunisia’s diverse culinary pallet is couscous. Couscous is typically served as a type of pasta served with stew, but varieties differ across North Africa. You might also encounter masfouf, a sweeter variety of couscous.

For breakfast, try a local chakchouka (also spelled shakshouka). This dish consists of poached eggs served in spicy sauce accompanied by various vegetables and spices. Finally, you can (and should) order traditional mint tea when given the option. It is a staple of Tunisian diets lasting from ancient history, and you can’t eat in Tunisia without being offered a sip at least once.