🇹🇳 Tunisia: a complete guide from ancient Carthage to Star Wars
Do you know what unites the Roman Colosseum , the Star Wars universe and Winston Churchill? Tunisia! This country boasts not only a rich history, but also luxurious conditions for beach lovers. Tiqets.com offers excellent summer holiday options in Tunisia. We tell you what you need to do while traveling to this country.
Tips for tourists before traveling:
- Drink only bottled water and remember to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
- In Tunisia it is not customary to leave a tip. It is acceptable to leave a small amount. Also, tips may already be included in the final bill.
- Bargain until the bitter end. Owners of private shops and pavilions at the market do not hesitate to increase the price for tourists by five or more times.
- Do not keep valuables on your person. Unfortunately, thefts and robberies occur quite often on the streets of Tunisia. Remember about hotel safes: they will save your valuables and safely hide them from strangers.
- Specify several drivers at once in the contract with the car rental company. If you rent a car, then when concluding a contract it is better to indicate several people as drivers at once. If a policeman stops you, he will demand your license and a car rental agreement.
- Schedule a thalassotherapy visit. It includes therapeutic procedures using sea water and mud. There are thalassotherapy centers at every resort.
Best time to travel to Tunisia
The weather in the resorts of Tunisia differs depending on the month and time of year.
If your goal is to spend days on end on snow-white beaches, enjoy the sun and get a beautiful bronze tan, come from April to June. At this time, the water warms up to +22°C, and the air – to +30°C.
We recommend that you seriously think about traveling to Tunisia from September to November. During the velvet season, the water and air temperatures are in no way inferior to those of the previous season. But the beaches of Tunisia are emptying, the heat is decreasing, and prices are gradually declining.
If you are traveling to Tunisia with a sightseeing map and the intention of booking all the excursion tours, plan your trip in the spring. The average air temperature in March reaches +20°C. Don't forget that evenings in Tunisia are very cold. Take warm clothes and a thermos with hot water with you.
The hottest months at the resorts are July and August. At this time, the air temperature reaches +40°C, water temperature – up to +30°C. The warm and dry climate of Lima does not spoil the holiday experience for beach fans at all. You can freely swim in the sea and sunbathe under the sun. Don't forget to apply sunscreen – at this time there is a high probability of not just tanning, but getting burned.
Popular resorts in Tunisia
Djerba Island
Djerba is the largest island on the North African coast. You can get to the mainland part of the country by bridge or by ferry, which takes only 15 minutes.
The island of Djerba is the warmest resort in Tunisia. The average temperature consistently exceeds the thermometer by +3-+5°C compared to other regions of the country.
It was on the island of Djerba that the beaches on the island seemed to have disappeared from the screens of phones and computers. Just imagine: shining white sand, crystal clear water, complete absence of algae. Add to this the warming sun and the turquoise reflection of the sea surface. It’s worth coming to Djerba at least for such nature! There is one thing: you need to come to the northeast of the island for such views.
Thalassotherapy clinics and medical centers deserve special attention. There are separate institutions and centers at hotels on the island. Don't miss the opportunity to combine business with pleasure and solve health problems while on vacation in Tunisia.
By the way, there are also unusual locations that may surprise even the most experienced travelers. Would you like to visit a crocodile farm or go on an excursion to the habitat of pink flamingos? How do you like the idea of creating a route through the Star Wars universe, since some of the films were filmed right on the island?
traveltimes.ru
Monastir
Monastir is a place for a budget holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The ancient city is famous for the fact that several thousand years ago Caesar set off from here on a campaign against Pompey.
The tourist area of Skanes is located outside the city. Here you can find excellent accommodation options at an attractive price. Monastir is surrounded on all sides by dense thickets of tropical forests.
We advise you to pay attention to entertainment and activities in the city: would you like to go on a yacht trip or go horseback riding? Maybe you are a diving or golf enthusiast? Yes, yes, you can try all this in Monastir. Have you already made your choice?
If you are going to Tunisia for an upscale beach holiday, try to find another option. The water is filled with seaweed and the waves constantly knock you down. In addition, entering the water in some places can be very sharp.
For whom is Monastir ideal? Lovers of historical values and attractions, get ready to remember all the advantages of the city. Here you will find the Great Mosque of the 9th century, and the mausoleum of the first president of Tunisia, and even the fortress walls of the old city. This is not a complete list of all historical locations of the city.
ssko.ru
Hammamet
This resort has earned the status of one of the most luxurious and prestigious in the country. Before traveling to Hammamet, you don’t need to decide what you want from your vacation. This resort has it all. A wide range of thalassotherapy treatments, impeccable beach holidays and attractions, vibrant nightlife.
This city is famous for its beaches, which are 14 kilometers long. The entrance to the water is gentle along almost the entire beach strip, and the sea is distinguished by its imperturbable calm. By the way, many families with children choose Hammamet precisely because of the lack of waves. No need to worry about additional things: umbrellas and sun loungers can be rented at any beach.
Hammamet is a real treasury of historical values. First of all, go to the Medina-Mediterrania complex. This tourism project is built in the open air. The complex is a medina in traditional Arabic style. This museum is surrounded by a wall that hides the interior of the city from outside view. Inside the complex, tourists can take a closer look at the hotel, the traditional market and the themed entertainment space.
Be sure to check out the Georg Sebastian House and Botanical Gardens. Just imagine: Churchill and Sagan themselves lived here. Take time to enjoy the Roman baths, authentic interiors and cypress groves. By the way, every year in July and August the International Arts Festival takes place on the territory of Sebastian’s house. An excellent opportunity to remember your summer holiday in this country.
Yes, sometimes prices for holidays in Hammamet are steep, but every day is worth the budget spent. By the way, they say that the President of Tunisia himself rests here. Isn't this a guarantee that a luxury holiday is guaranteed?
sejour.org
Sousse
City of history and antiquities. This is exactly how we see Sousse. Stroll through the authentic streets of the medina to learn more about the history and life of Sousse. Numerous mosques and towers have been preserved in this part of the city. Take time to explore the catacombs containing burials from the early Christian era.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Ribat to see the small cells of the monastery and the Caliph's Tower. The real pearl of Sousse is the city museum. Such collections of ancient masks, mosaics and statues cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Tourists come here all year round, and the city completely adapts to them. The map shows a countless number of hotels: from the cheapest to the most luxurious. Choose what you want to do: go to a noisy party, go on a boat trip from a picturesque port, play golf on a unique ranch or go wind surfing? We didn’t forget to mention clubs, bars and restaurants. They are found literally at every step. Everyone will find something to their liking and will not be bored day or night.
What you need to know about a beach holiday? Of course, the beaches in Sousse are hard to compete with the pearls of Hammamet. They are neat and well-appointed, but they still cannot be called perfect. Tourists can spend time in both hotel and city areas. The sea water is clean, and the beaches themselves often have cafes and restaurants.
Sousse is ideal for an inexpensive and vibrant holiday with a pleasant bonus: numerous attractions of the ancient world.
tripplanet.ru
Mahdia
Mahdia is a serene and relaxed resort where you can completely disconnect from the noise and chaos of the metropolis. Many years ago this city was supposed to become the new capital, but the plans did not come true. Constant conflicts with the Turks, Spaniards and French deprived him of this status. This has not stopped Mahdia from becoming one of Tunisia's top tourist destinations.
The beaches in Mahdia are not just beautiful, but ideal. No wonder they are considered the best in the country. Fine white sand, a gentle entrance to the water, the absence of waves and azure water make the beaches objects of tourist attraction. Here you can rent umbrellas, sun loungers, towels and even diving equipment. Tourists have city, municipal and even wild beaches at their disposal if they want to be in complete silence and solitude.
We recommend visiting Borj el-Kebir, a Fatmid-era fortress whose towers offer incredible views of the city. Don’t bypass the Black Gate, which connects the old and new cities. If you want to learn more about the culture and traditions of the local people, head to the Mahdia Museum. Collections of traditional jewelry and clothing surprise with their diversity and uniqueness.
Mahdia is famous for its silk production and seafood. We recommend tasting seafood dishes in local cafes and restaurants, and bringing silk products as souvenirs. By the way, here you can try your hand at night fishing.
Mahdia does not have a noisy and fun nightlife. Those who want to enjoy a relaxing holiday with family and loved ones come here. The best beaches in the country are ready to welcome every tourist.
ou-et-quand.net
Where to go in Tunisia
We briefly described the attractions of each resort and their history. Now we’ll tell you about five places that you should definitely visit, regardless of what city you’re vacationing in.
Carthage
Just 35 kilometers from Tunisia – and the ruins of the majestic Carthage will open to your eyes. Now in the suburbs of Tunisia you can study in detail the echoes of ancient civilization and ask the guide all your questions. Scientists have not yet revealed all the secrets of the life of Carthage, and excavations and scientific discoveries in this territory are still taking place. Just imagine that several centuries ago Carthage was Rome's main rival in the struggle for the world crown. By the way, the Oscar-winning film “Gladiator” starring Russell Crowe was filmed here.
If your plane arrives at Tunis-Carthage Airport (TUN), you can take the tour on the same day. The airport and the ruins of the ancient world are only ten kilometers from each other.
We recommend booking your tour at a hotel or travel agency at any resort. The average cost of an excursion to Carthage is from $55.
goldtravel.by
Sidi Bou Said
This is one of the most vibrant and picturesque cities in Tunisia. What is its main feature? All buildings in Sidi Bou Said are painted blue and white. Not only buildings, but even trash cans, bicycles and lanterns do not stand out from the general color scheme. In the 20th century, a French baron achieved such a design at the legislative level. Since then, city residents have never had any disputes or conflicts during the next renovation.
This city surprises and inspires not only ordinary tourists, but also famous artists. Malevich and Kandinsky, de Maupassant and Chateaubriand sought inspiration here. Don't miss the opportunity to see local Santorini with your own eyes.
travelatum.ru
Cathedral of Saint Vincent de Paul
If you are planning a trip to Tunisia, be sure to remember this place. The Catholic church got its name in honor of the priest who was redeemed from slavery. You will get a wow effect at the first glance at the building: the rich decoration and huge scale of the cathedral cannot but surprise. Just imagine these dimensions: 80 meters long and 30 meters high.
Inside the cathedral there is a whole organ hall and two musical instruments that still sound great today. This shrine remains the property of the Catholic Church under the administration of the Vatican.
zagran.guru
Lake Chott el Djerid
Chott el Djerid is a salt lake in the Sahara Desert. To be precise, not a lake, but a salt marsh depression. Due to the high sun and hot climate in the summer, Chott el Djerid dries out and turns into an abyss in the desert. In winter, a completely different picture is observed. The entire space is filled with water, and small islands pop out of the water every now and then to please the eyes of travelers.
Tourists are impressed by the salt mountains and sulphate water, which turns into different colors. By the way, this place was appreciated not only by travelers, but also by Luke Skywalker. It was from here that he watched the setting of the two suns of the planet Tatooine.
turtella.ru
Amphitheater in El Jem
If you're dreaming of traveling to Italy but haven't been there yet, don't worry. The Colosseum can be seen not only in Rome, but also in El Jem. It is difficult not to note the similarities between Italian and Tunisian attractions.
Just imagine: the amphitheater was built more than 2000 years ago. And it has survived to this day. Are you ready for another interesting fact? This historical value is the third largest in the world and the first outside Europe. Agree, the scale and significance impress even the most experienced traveler.
An entrance ticket for an adult costs about $3.5. The price includes admission to the amphitheater and the El Jem Archaeological Museum.
archidatum.com
Food in Tunisia: what should you try?
The national cuisine of Tunisia has absorbed the characteristics of the region and those countries that have repeatedly tried to conquer the territory. The main ingredients of local dishes are seafood, fruits and vegetables, bread and beef. We have put together a selection of five dishes that you need to try while traveling.
Couscous
This cereal has practically become the national symbol of Tunisia. Recipes for its preparation are passed down from generation to generation, but it is impossible to count their exact number.
Traditionally, couscous is cooked in a large saucepan. Vegetables, meat or seafood are stewed on the lower level, and cereals are stewed on the upper level. Before serving, meat or seafood is placed on cereal, and vegetables are poured with sauce.
If you are on vacation on the island of Djerba, try couscous in local restaurants. There it is prepared with tuna and seafood. Add fish stock, lemon, mint and fennel to the pan. The dish is saturated with aromas and is remembered for a long time.
food.harbouchanews.com
Harissa
Are there any thrill seekers among you? Harissa is a snack made from olive oil, chili peppers, spices and garlic. Sometimes cooks add tomato paste to soften the dish.
Traditionally, you take a baguette with olive oil and dip it in harissa. Try a little at a time, especially if you are not used to chili peppers. You can order the dish in almost every restaurant, because it is an invention of Tunisian chefs.
daringgourmet.com
Tazhin
Tunisians consider tagine to be a couscous, but it can rightfully be a main dish. Tagine is made from eggs, potatoes, chicken, cheese and aromatic herbs. According to the recipe, this dish resembles a hearty omelette that is baked in the oven. Outwardly, it looks like a tall homemade pie.
news-tunisia.tunisienumerique.com
Shorba
This is a hearty and rich soup made from veal and vegetables. During the cooking process, cooks add wheat grits, which makes the soup quite thick. The process of preparing the first dish is also surprising: first, the ingredients are fried in olive oil, after which they are diluted to the desired consistency with water and tomato paste. Shorba is one of the most popular lunches among Tunisians.
everydaygourmet.tv
Mahrud
We finish our recommendations with dessert. Mahrud is a “wet” sweet made from semolina. The most popular fillings for these cookies are candied orange peel, dates and nuts. Cinnamon gives the dish a special aroma: the chefs do not regret it at all.
lonelyplanet.com
Vacation prices
You can book your favorite tour in a personal selection from Tiqets.com
Currency and communications
The national currency is the Tunisian dinar (about $0.32). Mostly in markets and shopping centers, sellers accept cash payments. You can exchange currency in banks and hotels.
Please note that tourists can import and export up to 5,000 Tunisian dinars (about $1,600). If you have a larger amount, be sure to declare it at the entrance so that you can freely take it back. Do not exchange large amounts at once: taking national currency out of the country is prohibited. If you are going to exchange money back, you may need a receipt. Do not throw them away after the exchange and keep them until you leave the country.
Wi-fi in public places practically does not work. If you plan to use cards, call a taxi and get in touch with family and friends, buy a local SIM card. This can be done at the airport or at special sales points in each city. Choose the most convenient tariff from the main operators – Orange and Ooredoo. Prices for a 1.25 GB mobile Internet tariff from Tartu start from $1.6.
Answers to popular questions
Which Tunisian resort is suitable for families with children?
For a family holiday, it is better to choose hotels in Hammamet, Mahdia and on the island of Djerba. There are practically no waves here, and the beaches are ideal for a comfortable family pastime. Tours of Tunisia can be booked at each resort to help you spend time together and expand your horizons.
What souvenirs should I bring from Tunisia?
Bring olive oil, spices and cactus and fig jam. Such souvenirs will help you remember your trip to Tunisia for many months.
If you have a big budget, buy silk items, jewelry and leather goods. Tunisian craftsmen know everything about the quality of these goods. Such souvenirs can not only be placed in a prominent place, but also used every day. A great way to literally carry a piece of Tunisia with you.
If I don’t know Arabic, how can I communicate?
The local population can hardly communicate in English even in the most popular tourist areas. You can communicate in French. If you don't own one, buy a local SIM card so you have an online translator at hand. Communication in English is practically not developed. We advise you to use an electronic translator and remember a few words that will facilitate the process of communication with Tunisians:
- aslama – hello;
- bislyama – goodbye;
- shnahuelek? – How are you?;
- me nefhemsh – I don’t understand you;
- aunni – help me.



