My Top 10 Tunisian Destinations (That Actually Deliver)
No clichés, no crowds—just real magic, coast to desert.
1. Tunis (Where Ancient Meets Artsy)
Tunisia’s capital is a layered experience. One minute you’re deep in the medina, surrounded by Ottoman-era doorways and the scent of jasmine; the next, you’re in a sleek café sipping espresso in La Marsa or checking out street art in Lafayette.
Visit the Bardo Museum for jaw-dropping Roman mosaics, but leave time for wandering souks and chatting with artisans. And don’t skip a sunset stroll along the waterfront in Sidi Bou Saïd—it’s just outside the city and feels like a Mediterranean dream.
2. Sidi Bou Saïd (The Blue-and-White Fantasy)
Yes, it’s on Instagram. Yes, it’s even better in real life.
Perched on a cliff above the sea, this village of blue doors, white walls, and bougainvillea is where Tunisia turns poetic. Spend your time sipping mint tea with pine nuts on a terrace, browsing galleries, or climbing to the lighthouse for panoramic views.
It’s small but packed with atmosphere—a peaceful, romantic escape that still feels authentic.
3. Djerba (Island Life, Tunisian Style)
Djerba is a warm, sunny island with Berber roots, Jewish heritage, and palm-lined beaches that go on forever. Rent a scooter and explore everything from ancient synagogues to camel rides at sunset.
The traditional architecture here is minimalist and beautiful—white domes, blue windows, and sprawling olive groves. You’ll eat seafood that tastes like it jumped straight from the sea onto your plate, and the island vibe makes it easy to slow down.
4. Kairouan (Sacred, Serene, and Surprisingly Cool)
As one of Islam’s oldest and holiest cities, Kairouan has real spiritual energy—but it’s also full of surprises.
The medina is calm and uncrowded, perfect for wandering. Visit the Great Mosque, admire centuries-old mosaics, and check out the iconic water basins. Don’t miss the makroudh, a date-filled pastry that’s reason alone to visit.
5. Tozeur (Oasis Meets Sci-Fi)
Tozeur is a desert town that looks like a mirage—with tall palm groves, geometric brickwork, and golden light that turns the whole place into a movie scene.
Speaking of movies: Star Wars fans will geek out over nearby sets still standing in the sand. Ride a camel into the dunes, explore mountain oases like Chebika and Tamerza, or just relax under the palms with fresh dates.
6. Matmata (Underground Wonder)
Ever wanted to sleep in a cave hotel? Matmata is the place. The homes here are dug into the earth to stay cool in summer and warm in winter—a design that’s as genius as it is photogenic.
You can tour traditional troglodyte homes or stay overnight in one. It’s surreal and quiet, with vast desert views and a connection to a slower way of life.
7. El Djem (The Colosseum Without the Crowds)
One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters anywhere, El Djem feels almost like time travel. Unlike Rome, you can walk right into the tunnels beneath the arena and stand in the center where gladiators once stood.
It’s dramatic, atmospheric, and—best of all—rarely packed with people.
8. Mahdia (Underrated Beach Town)
Skip the touristy resorts and head to Mahdia, a quieter coastal town with local vibes and some of the softest sand in the country. The old medina is small but full of charm, especially at sunset.
Watch fishing boats come and go, sip tea on a seaside terrace, and enjoy fresh-caught seafood without breaking the bank.
9. Sousse (Where History Meets the Sea)
Sousse balances modern city life with ancient heritage. Explore the old medina’s fortress walls, the archaeological museum, and the historic Ribat (a coastal watchtower you can climb).
It’s lively without being overwhelming, and the beach is right there—making it perfect for travelers who want a bit of everything.
10. Douz (Gateway to the Sahara)
Douz is the edge of the world—or at least it feels that way. This is where the dunes begin, stretching endlessly into the southern horizon.
Whether you’re here for a desert festival, camel trekking, or just some soul-level solitude, Douz delivers. It’s also the perfect base for reaching Jebil National Park or venturing deeper into the Sahara.
Practical Tips for Tunisia
-
When to Go: March–May and September–November are best. Avoid July–August if you’re not a fan of the heat.
-
Getting Around: Louages (shared taxis) are fast and cheap for intercity travel. Trains and buses are solid options too.
-
Budget: Mid-range hotels: 80–150 TND, meals: 10–30 TND, entrance fees: generally low.
-
Safety: Tunisia is solo-travel friendly. Stay aware in markets and crowded spots, especially in touristy areas.
-
What to Eat: Brik (fried pastry with egg), couscous (everywhere, in every style), ojja (spicy tomato-egg dish), and harissa on everything.
✨ Make It Your Tunisian Story
Tunisia is full of contrasts—Roman ruins and Berber villages, desert silence and Mediterranean buzz. You can surf sand dunes in the morning and eat couscous by the sea at sunset.
So walk the medina with no destination, ride a camel into nowhere, say yes to that third cup of tea. Let the call to prayer echo through your day, and watch your story unfold between sea and Sahara.
