Things to Do in Tunis

About Tunis

Where Mediterranean breezes carry the whispers of three millennia across whitewashed terraces and azure coastlines, Tunis unfolds as North Africa's most captivating cultural crossroads. Here, the labyrinthine medina pulses with the ancient rhythms of craftsmen hammering silver, spice merchants calling their wares, and the gentle echo of prayers drifting from centuries-old mosques. Beyond the UNESCO-protected old quarter, French colonial boulevards lined with jasmine trees lead to vibrant neighborhoods where traditional cafés serve mint tea alongside espresso, and contemporary galleries showcase Tunisia's artistic renaissance. The scent of jasmine mingles with harissa-spiced tagines, while the haunting melodies of oud players float through cobblestone alleys where Carthaginian, Roman, Arab, and French legacies interweave seamlessly. This is a city that invites wandering—where every corner reveals another layer of history, every conversation offers insight into a culture that has mastered the art of embracing change while honoring tradition.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use the modern light rail (TGM) for coastal trips to Carthage and Sidi Bou Said. Within Tunis, taxis are abundant but negotiate fares beforehand or insist on the meter. The medina is best explored on foot—cars cannot access most areas.

Money: Tunisian Dinars (TND) cannot be exchanged outside Tunisia, so exchange only what you need. ATMs are widely available in Ville Nouvelle. Bring euros for better exchange rates, and always keep small bills for tips and market purchases.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting mosques (long pants, covered shoulders). During Ramadan, avoid eating/drinking publicly during daylight. Friday prayers are important—expect some shops to close. Learning basic Arabic greetings like 'As-salāmu alaykum' shows respect.

Food Safety: Street food is generally safe at busy stalls with high turnover. Try brik (fried pastry), couscous on Fridays, and fresh seafood near the port. Avoid tap water; bottled water is inexpensive and widely available.

When to Visit

Tunis shines brightest during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures hover between 18-26°C, rainfall is minimal (20-40mm monthly), and gentle Mediterranean breezes make exploring comfortable. These shoulder seasons offer 20-30% lower accommodation prices compared to peak periods. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat (28-35°C) and crowds, with hotel rates at their highest, though coastal areas remain pleasant for evening strolls. Winter (December-February) sees cooler temperatures (8-16°C) and occasional rain (40-60mm monthly), but fewer tourists and significant savings of 40-50% on accommodations. Festival enthusiasts should visit during the International Festival of Carthage (July-August) featuring world-class performances in ancient Roman amphitheaters, or the Medina Festival (April-May) celebrating traditional crafts and music. Ramadan timing varies yearly but offers unique cultural experiences, though some restaurants close during daylight hours. Budget travelers benefit most from January-March visits, while culture seekers will find April-May ideal for perfect weather and authentic local festivals. Beach lovers should target September-October for warm seas without summer's intensity.