Things to Do in Tunis in March

March Weather in Tunis

19°C (66°F) High Temp

9°C (49°F) Low Temp

46 mm (1.8 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect spring temperatures - warm afternoons at 19°C (66°F) ideal for walking medina streets without summer's exhausting heat above 35°C (95°F)
Bougainvillea and jasmine bloom throughout the city, filling courtyards and rooftops with vibrant colors and fragrant air that peaks in March
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 30-40% less than peak winter months, with rooms in boutique riads averaging €80-120 vs €150-200 in December
Local outdoor dining culture peaks as cafés extend terraces and families picnic in Parc du Belvédère during pleasant evening temperatures around 15°C (59°F)

Considerations

Unpredictable spring showers - 10 rainy days means you'll likely encounter sudden downpours that flood medina streets for 30-45 minutes before clearing
Strong sirocco winds from the Sahara can hit 2-3 times during March, bringing dust storms that reduce visibility and make outdoor sightseeing unpleasant for 1-2 days
Cool mornings at 9°C (49°F) require layered clothing, but afternoons can feel humid at 70% humidity - difficult to dress appropriately for the full day

Best Activities in March

Medina Walking Tours and Artisan Workshops

March's mild afternoons make exploring the UNESCO medina's narrow streets comfortable without summer's stifling heat. Spring light creates perfect conditions for photographing the intricate tile work at Zitouna Mosque and traditional carpet weaving workshops. The 70% humidity keeps dust settled, improving visibility through the souks.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours starting 9-10am to avoid afternoon crowds and potential rain showers. Expect to pay 25-40 TND for 3-hour guided tours. Look for certified guides with Ministry of Tourism badges. See current options in booking section below.

Sidi Bou Said Village Excursions

The iconic blue and white cliff-top village is spectacular in March as spring flowers bloom in terraced gardens. Cool morning temperatures around 12°C (54°F) make the 2 km (1.2 mile) uphill walk from the train station pleasant, while afternoon warmth is perfect for café terraces overlooking the Mediterranean.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips typically cost 35-55 TND including transport from central Tunis. Book combined tours that include both Sidi Bou Said and Carthage ruins to maximize your day. Avoid Fridays when local weekend crowds peak.

Carthage Archaeological Site Tours

March offers ideal conditions for exploring the sprawling ruins - cool enough for comfortable walking across the 6 sq km (2.3 sq mile) site, but warm enough to spend hours outdoors. Spring rains have cleared dust from mosaics and stone carvings, revealing intricate details often obscured in drier months.

Booking Tip: Full site tickets cost 12 TND, or book comprehensive tours for 45-70 TND including transport and guide. Allow 4-5 hours for the complete experience. Morning visits avoid both crowds and potential afternoon showers.

Hammam Traditional Bath Experiences

March's variable weather and humidity make traditional steam baths particularly appealing. Cool mornings transition to warm, humid afternoons - perfect for the contrast of hot steam rooms and cool relaxation areas. Local hammams are less crowded as winter tourists depart but weather isn't yet hot enough to deter the experience.

Booking Tip: Traditional public hammams cost 8-15 TND, while tourist-oriented spa hammams charge 60-120 TND. Book afternoon sessions around 2-4pm when morning sightseeing is complete but before dinner. Look for hammams with separate gender schedules clearly posted.

Bardo Museum and Indoor Cultural Sites

March's 10 rainy days make indoor alternatives essential. The Bardo houses the world's largest Roman mosaic collection in climate-controlled galleries perfect for unpredictable weather days. Spring is ideal for museum visits as summer hasn't yet brought tour bus crowds that can make viewing difficult.

Booking Tip: Museum entry is 11 TND, with guided tours available for 25-35 TND additional. Visit Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm, avoiding Monday closures. Book morning slots during the week to avoid weekend family visits and potential afternoon weather.

Avenue Habib Bourguiba Café Culture

March marks the peak of Tunis café culture as perfect temperatures bring locals outdoors for extended mint tea sessions. The city's main boulevard comes alive with street vendors, outdoor chess games, and evening promenades as temperatures settle around 15°C (59°F) after sunset.

Booking Tip: Café mint tea costs 3-5 TND, coffee 4-7 TND. Best people-watching spots are between Place de l'Indépendance and Avenue de France. Evening hours from 5-8pm offer the most authentic local atmosphere as the workday ends.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Festival International de Carthage Program Launch

While the main festival occurs in July-August, March sees the announcement of performers and early ticket sales, creating excitement throughout the cultural community. Local venues host preview concerts and cultural events leading up to the main season.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - mornings at 9°C (49°F) require light sweater, but afternoons hit 19°C (66°F) with 70% humidity making cotton t-shirts essential

Waterproof walking shoes with good grip - medina stone streets become slippery during March's 10 rainy days, and you'll walk 8-12 km (5-7.5 miles) daily

Compact umbrella and light rain jacket - sudden 30-45 minute downpours are common, and narrow medina streets offer little shelter

SPF 50+ sunscreen despite variable weather - UV index reaches 8, and Mediterranean reflection intensifies exposure even on cloudy days

Scarf for mosque visits and dust protection - required for religious sites covering shoulders/head, plus essential during sirocco wind days

Power bank and universal adapter - exploring all day drains phones, and Type C/E outlets require adapters for most international devices

Comfortable day pack - essential for carrying layers as temperature swings from 9-19°C (49-66°F), plus water and rain protection

Cash in small denominations - many vendors, taxis, and traditional hammams only accept Tunisian dinars in 5-20 TND notes

Closed-toe shoes for archaeological sites - Carthage ruins cover 6 sq km (2.3 sq miles) of uneven ancient stones requiring ankle support

Insider Knowledge

Locals call March 'the month of moods' due to unpredictable weather - always check morning skies before planning outdoor activities and have indoor backup plans ready

Friday afternoons see increased crowds at tourist sites as this begins the local weekend - Tuesday through Thursday mornings offer the most peaceful experiences

March marks orange blossom season in suburban areas - take the TGM light rail to Sidi Bou Said not just for the destination but for views of blooming orchards along the route

Restaurant lunch hours shift in March from winter timing - locals eat lunch 1-3pm rather than 12-2pm, so book accordingly or expect to dine with tourists only

Avoid These Mistakes

Wearing only light spring clothes without warm layers for 9°C (49°F) mornings - you'll be uncomfortable during early sightseeing hours

Scheduling all activities outdoors without rain contingencies - 10 rainy days means you'll definitely encounter weather disruptions

Expecting consistent warm weather like Mediterranean summers - March is variable spring weather requiring flexible daily planning