From the azure shores of the Mediterranean Sea to the blue-and-white streets of Sidi Bou Said, the underground houses of Matamata, and much more, Tunisia has it all!
For many tourists, Tunisia is a picturesque country of serene relaxation on sandy beaches or exploring maze-like alleyways of the markets. However, those who have never been here before might be wondering what is it really like to travel to Tunisia?
Before you get your Tunisia eVisa (check here for requirements), it’s helpful to learn a little more about the country, including its food, famous sites, transportation, accommodations, and more — which is exactly what this guide will help you with.
Now you can be prepared on what to expect from Tunisia and confidently travel there!
Where to go in Tunisia
When planning any trip, one of the most important things is to find plenty of interesting tourist attractions and places to visit. Thankfully, Tunisia has thousands of places to go and things to see!
Let’s start with the picturesque cities of Tunisia, which will leave even the most experienced tourist amazed. For example, the underground city of Matamat has been inhabited by local tribes for hundreds of years and was even featured in the film Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.
Next, walk among the narrow streets of Sidi Bou Said’s snow-white walls and blue roofs, which will forever be imprinted in your memory. Many people compare this city to Santorini in Greece, and for good reason — the cities are indeed very similar!
For history buffs, definitely visit Dougga in northern Tunisia, where you can find Roman temples, fountains, theaters, aqueducts, necropolises, and mausoleums. The site is so well-preserved that UNESCO even noted that it is “the best-preserved Roman small town in North Africa.”
When to Visit Tunisia
Thanks to its location on the northern coast of Africa, Tunisia is a warm country and, naturally, it’s a good idea to plan your trip to not get caught during the hottest season of the year.
The best time to travel to Tunisia is during the shoulder season, either in the spring (March through May) or autumn (October to November). It is recommended to avoid the peak of summer, around July to August, as the weather can often be unbearable.
Those interested in a beach holiday should come in June, as Tunisian resorts are in full swing by then. Travelers can expect sunny temperatures of 30 to 35 C and warm waters off the coast.
Transportation in Tunisia
Whether you’re driving by car, taking the bus, or even road tripping on a motorcycle, roads in Tunisia are in excellent condition and offer a comfortable way of getting between cities.
Those who are short on time but want to make the most of their trip should rent a car. This option typically costs $30 to $45 per day and gives you the freedom to stop wherever you’d like.
For those who want to save some money, intercity busses are an excellent choice. The bus is usually the cheapest form of transport, has regular schedules, and is well-connected to most major cities in Tunisia.
Finally, a true sense of adventure can be found by taking the train. Although there are only a handful of routes, like Tunis, Sousse, Sfax, and Monastir, the train is comfortable and offers beautiful views.
Delicious food
Tunisian cuisine is a real medley of taste because it combines elements of Turkish, French, and Mediterranean cuisine.
You won’t find pork in the local diet, as Tunisia is a Muslim country. However, there are plenty of dishes with chicken, lamb, goat, and other meats. Fresh and organic ingredients like olives, zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes adorn almost every dish and add flavor.
Of course, every menu in Tunisia must have at least one dish with couscous, which is a staple of North African cuisine. Couscous can be served hot or cold, with every restaurant adding its own unique touch to the dish.
If you love seafood, then Tunisia will become a real gastronomic discovery for you. Thanks to its coastline and proximity to the sea, the country is famous for its mouth-watering seafood dishes. Don’t miss the Spaghetti aux fruits de mer, a pasta with a tomato sauce base and octopus, shrimp, fish, and other seafood added into the mix. Bon appetit!
