Overview of Tunisia
The captivating North African country of Tunisia sits at the heart of the Mediterran, straddling the old and the new, the exotic and the traditional. Caught in a cleft between Algeria and Libya, it offers travellers sumptuous modern seaside resorts set side by side with a treasure-trove of ancient Roman, Arab, Berber, and Phoenician sites.
Just a few miles north of the capital, Tunis, lie the remains of the legendary ancient city of Carthage, founded in the 8th century BC. By contrast, Tunis is a bustling modern metropolis where steel, glass, and palm trees form the backdrop to streets filled with fast-moving yellow taxis.
The centuries slip away in the medieval Medina found in the heart of this pristine city. It serves as a haven for souvenir hunters, boasting hundreds of narrow streets crammed with vendors of antiques, jewellery, pottery, carpets, perfumes, dried fruit, books, spices, and other delights. Also, no tourist to the city should miss a visit to the Bardo Museum, for the joy of viewing one of the world's greatest collections of Roman mosaics.
Tunisia has a thousand miles of coastline to the north, where luxurious resorts like Hammamet and Nabeul nestle amid citrus orchards. Vacationers relish the sandy beaches and crystalline waters along the waterfront, where the only alternative to lazy bronzing is to indulge in a round of golf or take the plunge with some watersports.
Those intrepid enough to venture into the south, on the threshold of the Sahara desert, will be rewarded with some interesting geographical features like the 'forest in the desert' at Ramada, the dry salt lake at Chott el Jerid, or the remote oasis at Ksar Ghilane.
The cherry on the top for visitors to this affordable and exotic holiday destination is the warmth and genuine friendliness of the Tunisian people. This is evident in even the smallest of villages, where if you happen to pass through during one of the numerous summer festivals you will be welcomed and urged to join.
Although recent political upheaval has kept Tunisia on the front page rather than in the travel section, the country has made the transition to democracy smoothly and is once again welcoming tourists and cruise ships to its shores.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The overwhelming majority of people in Tunisia speak Arabic and French. English is taught in all schools and is increasingly spoken especially by younger people. Some German and Italian is also spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
-
All visitors must hold documents and tickets for return or onward travel. Some nationals can obtain visas on arrival. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. If the minor's father is a national of Tunisia, irrespective of minor's nationality: when departing Tunisia as an unaccompanied minor or accompanied only by mother, a Paternal Authorization is required. For divorced couples, an official copy of the court decision awarding custody to the mother is required.
Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
-
The unit of currency is the Tunisian Dinar (TND), divided into 1,000 millimes. Banks and some hotels provide foreign exchange. ATMs are found in most towns and at all the tourist resorts; almost all will accept Visa cards and many will also accept Maestro (Switch) cards. Visa, Maestro and MasterCard are accepted for payment in many souvenir shops, upmarket hotels and restaurants, although Visa encounters the least problems. All Tunisian currency must be exchanged before departure.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current in Tunisia is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round European-style, two-pin plugs are used.
Travel to Tunisia
Overview
A popular holiday resort destination for tourists, Tunisia has more to see and do than just beautiful beaches scattered along its Mediterranean coastline, and luxurious resorts like Hammamet and Nabeul. There are countless attractions to meet just about every sightseer's needs.
Start off in the capital of Tunis, a fast-paced modern metropolis juxtaposed by a medieval Medina. Spend a few hours here taking in the history and hunting for bargains and souvenirs in the countless tiny streets lined with vendors touting antiques, pottery, jewellery, and other delights.
Head to the Bardo Museum to marvel at some of the world's greatest Roman mosaics, while just a few miles north of Tunis lie the remains of the legendary ancient city of Carthage, which dates back to the 8th century BC.
Heading south towards the Sahara affords visitors plenty of fascinating geographical features like the 'forest in the desert' at Ramada, as well as the dry salt lake at Chott el Jerid, and the remote oasis at Ksar Ghilane.
Climate in Tunisia
Tunisia is a land of constant sunshine and warm water. The height of summer is a popular time to visit Tunisia, but many people prefer to visit between October and May when the temperature is more comfortable, or in the spring (March to May) when visitors may find displays of wild flowers throughout the countryside.
Health Notes when travelling to Tunisia
No vaccinations are recommended for Tunisia and no serious health risks exist, but all travellers are required to show a yellow fever certificate if coming from an infected area. Visitors travelling outside the resorts should ensure they drink only boiled, purified water. All medical expenses must be paid for immediately after treatment in Tunisia, and costs can be quite high. The availability of medication is limited. Visitors should bring adequate supplies of their own medication. Travel insurance is a necessity.
Safety Notes when travelling to Tunisia
As a rule, travellers are advised to avoid the border areas with Algeria, and be extra cautious if travelling alone in the southern and eastern border areas. In general, the northeastern coast region from Tunis all the way down to Gabes, remains safe and tourist friendly, although in recent years, there have been isolated incidences in the safer resort areas, such as Sousse and Port El Kantaoui on the east coast, where violent terrorist attacks have been especially aimed at large groups of foreign tourists.
As a result, many resorts have dramatically increased security to protect their visitors. For this reason, foreign travellers are advised to pay close attention to travel warnings and recommendations from official government sources before travel to Tunisia and to cooperate with security officials and carry a copy of their passport at all times, while in the country.
And although violent crimes are unlikely in larger tourist cities and resorts, petty theft and pick pocketing does occur. An increase in bag snatching has been noted in tourist areas and visitors are advised to keep bags close at all times.
Note: A state of emergency is currently in effect in Tunisia, following a suicide bombing in 2015.
Customs in Tunisia
Tunisia is a Muslim country and visitors should respect the local sensibilities, especially during the month of Ramadan. Visitors, and women in particular, should dress modestly outside of the beach resorts. Women should note that coffee houses are mainly populated by men and women are often ushered into the 'family section' in restaurants. Homosexuality is illegal and although it is common to see Arab men greet each other with a kiss on the cheek and even hold hands in public, this is unacceptable for tourists. Despite being a Muslim country, alcohol is widely available.
Duty Free in Tunisia
Travellers to Tunisia do not have to pay duty on the following items: 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 400g tobacco; 1 bottle of alcohol; a reasonable amount of perfume; and gifts to the value of 10 Tunisian dinars.
Doing Business in Tunisia
Tunisians like to get to know the person with whom they will be doing business and negotiations tend to be prolonged and very sociable occasions. As with other Arab countries, one is expected to dress conservatively and formally in Tunisia.
French is the common language of business and interpreters will be necessary otherwise. A firm handshake is the accepted form of greeting and the Arabic 'salaam aleikum' works better than a simple 'hello.' Business hours are generally 8am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm Monday to Friday.
Communication in Tunisia
The international dialling code for Tunisia is +216. City and area codes are in use, e.g. (0)1 for Tunis. There is widespread internet coverage with wifi in most tourist resorts, hotels, and restaurants.
Tipping in Tunisia
Tipping is not a requirement in Tunisia but appreciated for good service in local establishments. Most people performing a useful service will wait to be tipped. Waiters in resort and hotel restaurants expect a tip of around 10 percent.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors must hold documents and tickets for return or onward travel. Some nationals can obtain visas on arrival. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. If the minor's father is a national of Tunisia, irrespective of minor's nationality: when departing Tunisia as an unaccompanied minor or accompanied only by mother, a Paternal Authorization is required. For divorced couples, an official copy of the court decision awarding custody to the mother is required.
Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
-
US nationals must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay, and can stay visa-free for up to four months.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. Canadians do not require a visa to visit Tunisia for four months.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
British passports should be valid for the duration of the stay. British passport holders don't need a visa for visits of up to three months.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
-
Australian nationals need a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay, but can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
Irish nationals require a visa. A passport that is valid for the duration of the stay is required. A visa is not requirement for maximum stays of three months.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand nationals require a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
-
South African nationals must have a passport that is valid for the duration of their intended stay, but can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
Tourist Offices
Tunisian National Tourism Office (ONTT), Tunis: http://www.antor.com/members/tunisia.
Tunisia Embassies
- In the United States:
-
Embassy of Tunisia, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 862 1850.
- In Canada:
-
Embassy of Tunisia, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 237 0330.
- In the United Kingdom:
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Embassy of Tunisia, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 20 7584 8117.
- In Australia:
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Embassy of Tunisia, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6290 2061.
- In South Africa:
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Embassy of Tunisia, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 342 6282.
Foreign Embassies in Tunisia
- American Embassy
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United States Embassy, Tunis: +216 71 107 000.
- Canadian Embassy
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Canadian Embassy, Tunis (also responsible for Australia): +216 70 010 200.
- British Embassy
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British Embassy, Tunis: +216 (0)71 108 700.
- Irish Embassy
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Honorary Consul of Ireland, Tunis: +216 71 426 730.
- South African Embassy
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South African Embassy, Tunis: +216 71 800 311.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Tunisia
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hide Vaccines and Medicines
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.
| | Find Out Why | Protect Yourself |
All travelers You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel. |
| Routine vaccines | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. |   |
Most travelers Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting. |
| Hepatitis A | CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Tunisia, regardless of where you are eating or staying. |  |
| Typhoid | You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Tunisia. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater. | |
Some travelers Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US. |
| Hepatitis B | You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures. |   |
| Rabies | Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Tunisia, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups: - Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People who are taking long trips or moving to Tunisia
- Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
|  |
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Tunisia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Tunisia. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Tunisia, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
- Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People who are taking long trips or moving to Tunisia
- Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Key
- Get vaccinated
- Eat and drink safely
- Keep away from animals
- Reduce your exposure to germs
- Avoid sharing body fluids
- Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment
Top
Hide Stay Healthy and Safe
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Tunisia, so your behaviors are important.
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
- Food that is cooked and served hot
- Hard-cooked eggs
- Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
- Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
- Food served at room temperature
- Food from street vendors
- Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
- Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
- Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
- Bottled water that is sealed
- Water that has been disinfected
- Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
- Carbonated drinks
- Hot coffee or tea
- Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
- Tap or well water
- Ice made with tap or well water
- Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
- Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Hide Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Tunisia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
- Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
- Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Hide If your travel plans in Tunisia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
- If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Hide Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Hide Reduce your exposure to germs
Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Hide Avoid sharing body fluids
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Hide Know how to get medical care while traveling
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Tunisia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Hide Select safe transportation
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Tunisia may be poor.
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in Tunisia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
Hide Maintain personal security
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
Hide Top
Hide Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Tunisia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Top
Hide Travel Health Notices
There are no notices currently in effect for Tunisia.
Top
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.
Top
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The unit of currency is the Tunisian Dinar (TND), divided into 1,000 millimes. Banks and some hotels provide foreign exchange. ATMs are found in most towns and at all the tourist resorts; almost all will accept Visa cards and many will also accept Maestro (Switch) cards. Visa, Maestro and MasterCard are accepted for payment in many souvenir shops, upmarket hotels and restaurants, although Visa encounters the least problems. All Tunisian currency must be exchanged before departure.
|
Exchange rate for 1 TND - Tunisian Dinar
|
0.47 BMD
Bermudan Dollar
|
0.42 EUR
Euro
|
0.47 USD
U.S. Dollar
|
0.33 GBP
U.K. Pound Sterling
|
51.32 JPY
Japanese Yen
|
0.62 CAD
Canadian Dollar
|
0.47 CHF
Swiss Franc
|
0.65 AUD
Australian Dollar
|
11.83 UAH
Ukrainian Hryvnia
|
159.13 KZT
Kazakhstani Tenge
|
709.59 LBP
Lebanese Pound
|
0.34 LYD
Libyan Dinar
|
3.23 BOB
Bolivian Boliviano
|
50.84 NPR
Nepalese Rupee
|
0.18 OMR
Omani Rial
|
1.72 QAR
Qatari Rial
|
0.65 SGD
Singapore Dollar
|
3.91 SEK
Swedish Krona
|
3.12 TTD
Trinidad Tobago Dollar
|
4.70 VEF
Venezuelan Bolivar
|
21.60 DOP
Dominican Peso
|
3.17 HRK
Croatian Kuna
|
8.78 MXN
Mexican Peso
|
276.28 XOF
West African CFA Franc
|
1.49 PGK
Papua New Guinean kina
|
0.47 BSD
Bahamian Dollar
|
0.99 FJD
Fiji Dollar
|
10.67 HNL
Honduran Lempira
|
52.08 DZD
Algerian Dinar
|
561.37 MMK
Myanma Kyat
|
5.27 BWP
Botswana Pula
|
1.59 PEN
Peruvian Nuevo Sol
|
326.81 CLP
Chilean Peso
|
225.29 AMD
Armenia Dram
|
11.39 CZK
Czech Koruna
|
9.42 MDL
Moldova Lei
|
58.57 ISK
Icelandic Krona
|
1,384.80 UZS
Uzbekistan Sum
|
1.82 ILS
Israeli New Sheqel
|
0.33 JOD
Jordanian Dinar
|
0.14 KWD
Kuwaiti Dinar
|
14.77 UYU
Uruguayan Peso
|
16.74 MUR
Mauritian Rupee
|
13.44 NIO
Nicaraguan Córdoba
|
3.93 NOK
Norwegian Krone
|
1.85 PLN
Polish Zloty
|
1.77 SAR
Saudi Riyal
|
68.81 LKR
Sri Lanka Rupee
|
16.78 THB
Thai Baht
|
1.73 AED
U.A.E Dirham
|
1.69 BRL
Brazilian Real
|
1.91 RON
Romanian New Leu
|
3.66 HKD
Hong Kong Dollar
|
276.91 XAF
Central African CFA Franc
|
10,590.58 VND
Vietnamese Dong
|
6.57 ARS
Argentine Peso
|
1.27 XCD
East Caribbean Dollar
|
3.69 GTQ
Guatemalan Quetzal
|
4.60 MAD
Moroccan Dirham
|
0.18 BHD
Bahrain Dinar
|
0.47 PAB
Panamanian Balboa
|
0.70 AZN
Azerbaijan Manat
|
1,469.18 COP
Colombian Peso
|
32.18 KGS
Kyrgyzstan Som
|
131.83 HUF
Hungarian Forint
|
3.71 TJS
Tajikistan Ruble
|
6,447.78 IDR
Indonesian Rupiah
|
4.18 EGP
Egyptian Pound
|
561.27 KRW
South Korean Won
|
2,671.56 PYG
Paraguayan Guaraní
|
1.96 MYR
Malaysian Ringgit
|
253.87 CRC
Costa Rican Colón
|
0.69 NZD
New Zealand Dollar
|
49.35 PKR
Pakistani Rupee
|
31.48 RUB
Russian Rouble
|
7.35 ZAR
South African Rand
|
0.94 BBD
Barbadian Dollar
|
0.83 BGN
Bulgarian Lev
|
1.39 TRY
Turkish Lira
|
21.97 PHP
Philippine Peso
|
15.37 TWD
New Taiwan Dollar
|
92.60 NGN
Nigerian Naira
|
50.49 XPF
CFP Franc
|
1.84 GHS
Ghanaian Cedi
|
58.87 JMD
Jamaican Dollar
|
0.85 ANG
Neth. Antillean Guilder
|
0.65 BND
Brunei Dollar
|
52.10 RSD
Serbian Dinar
|
3.10 CNY
Chinese Yuan
|
9,376.62 BYR
Belarussian Ruble
|
3.13 DKK
Danish Krone
|
1.62 TMT
New Turkmenistan Manat
|
31.70 INR
Indian Rupee
|
|
|
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Exchange Rate for
U.S. Dollar to Tunisian Dinar
Exchange Rate for
Euro to Tunisian Dinar
Exchange Rate for
Canadian Dollar to Tunisian Dinar
Exchange Rate for
U.K. Pound Sterling to Tunisian Dinar
Exchange Rate for
Australian Dollar to Tunisian Dinar
Exchange Rate for
New Zealand Dollar to Tunisian Dinar
Exchange Rate for
South African Rand to Tunisian Dinar
Tunis-Carthage Airport (TUN)
Tunis-Carthage International Airport
http://www.tunis-airport.com/
Location: Tunis The airport is situated about four miles (6km) from Tunis.
Time: Local time is GMT +1
Contacts:
Tel: +216 1 755 000.
Transfer between terminals:
A shuttle bus links the terminals every 10 minutes.
Getting to the city:
The airport is well served by public buses and taxis. The bus trip to the city centre takes about 30 minutes.
Car rental:
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Budget, Hertz, Avis, and Sixt.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available at the airport and cost roughly between TND 5 and TND 15 to the city. Taxis should be metered and visitors should insist the meter is turned on. There are extra charges for luggage and travelling after 9pm.
Facilities:
Facilities at the airport include a post office, bank, bureau de change, ATM, restaurants, cafeterias, bars, VIP lounge, duty-free shop, first aid, gift shop, travel agent, and tourist help desk.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available at the airport.
Monastir Airport (MIR)
Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport
http://www.habibbourguibaairport.com
Location: The East Coast 5 miles (8km) west of Monastir
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).
Contacts:
+216 73 520 000
Getting to the city:
There is a light rail located in front of the airport with service to Monastir and Sousse every 30 minutes.
Car rental:
Alamo, Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt operate car hire facilities at Monastir Airport.
Airport Taxis:
There are yellow taxis located outside the terminal building.
Facilities:
Ther terminal contains two restaurants, duty-free shopping, public phones, banks, currency exchange facilities, a tourist information centre, baby-changing facilities, and a first aid station.
Parking:
There are parking facilities for cars and buses adjacent to the terminal.
Departure Tax: 45 Tunisian dinars
Hammamet
The East Coast
Between the Mediterranean and the Sahara lies the pride of the Tunisian Riviera: Hammamet. The sophisticated holiday resort town has a perfect sweep of beach, an ancient and exciting medina, healing mineral baths, and renowned hotels.
Once a sleepy fishing village, Hammamet (meaning 'the baths') was awakened to its tourist potential back in the 1920s when a flock of wealthy American and Europeans decided to make it their playground.
Today it has become a destination mainly for middle-to-upper range package tours from Europe, the streets abuzz with holidaymakers speaking Swedish, German, English and French. Despite its modern architecture, Hammamet retains its sense of exotic history. It is dominated by its 15th-century medina and
souk(bazaar), with treasures like carpets, brass ornaments, jewellery, traditional kaftans, pottery, and leather goods.
The narrow winding alleys also conceal bright, whitewashed windowless houses behind splendid ornate doors. The town's baths, famed since Roman times, are also situated in the crowded medina, alongside ancient mosques and over-shadowed by the medieval castle or
kasbah.
The big attraction of this seaside town, though, is its six-mile (10km) stretch of palm-fringed shore, boasting beautiful sandy clean beaches, decorated with colourful fishing boats. South of the old town along the beach, a plethora of attractive Moorish-style low-rise hotels set in stunning lush gardens has mushroomed, offering visitors luxury accommodations, watersports, entertainment, gourmet restaurants, and all the trappings of a perfect holiday.
Nightlife in Hammamet
Nightlife in Hammamet is low-key, with no all-night clubbing experiences on offer. Most hotels offer dancing and entertainment, and there are numerous bars and discos catering for visitors, most closing by midnight however.
Shopping in Hammamet
Shopping in the medieval souk (bazaar) in Hammamet is one of the most memorable holiday experiences for visitors. They often go home laden with attractive souvenirs. A treasure-trove of irresistible goods like exotic carpets, embroidered kaftans, glittering hookah pipes, brassware, jewellery, leather goods, and pottery are on offer to delight avid shoppers. It is expected to haggle over price. Those needing to buy more practical goods will find what they require in the modern shopping centre.
Things to do in Hammamet
Most holidaymakers come to Hammamet for the beach and sea, and there are a host of watersports on offer from water-skiing to snorkelling for those who want to do more than just laze in the sun.
On top of the water, boat trips to view dolphins are a popular past time. On land there are some good golf courses, tennis courts and the chance to go horse riding or, more exotically, explore on camelback.
Hammamet is well-situated for a variety of excursions, offered enthusiastically by local operators. Most popular among these are shopping trips to Tunis, expeditions to the ruins of Carthage, desert safaris, and outings to nearby Nabeul, headquarters of the ancient but still thriving local pottery industry.
Things to be aware of in Hammamet
Care is required when swimming in the sea, as there are some unexpected deep patches near the shore. Vendors of souvenirs in Hammamet can be irritating and an annoyance to holidaymakers on the beach, and some find shopkeepers in the medina a little too pushy and overbearing.
Dining in Hammamet
Most hotels catering for holidaymakers in Hammamet have their own restaurants, but the town itself overflows with a variety of eateries and pavement cafes where it is possible to find anything from fish and chips to pizza. However, no visit to Tunisia is complete without sampling the renowned local dishes, though they can be overly spicy.
Among the specialities to sample are couscous (steamed semolina grains mixed with vegetables, fish, chicken, or meat), brik (pastry filled with egg, herbs and tuna), choba (thick, creamy tomato soup), and makroudh (a syrup-soaked honey cake stuffed with dates).
Sousse
The East Coast
The captivating holiday resort town of Sousse lies on Tunisia's east coast, about two hours drive south of the capital, Tunis. From the 9th century onwards, the Phoenicians, Byzantines, Arabs, and Romans all discovered the delights of this fertile spot. Dubbed 'the pearl of the Sahel' in ancient times, today its mild climate and beautiful Mediterranean shoreline work their magic on holidaymakers from all over Europe.
Sousse is also favoured by Tunisians as a getaway destination, and locals enjoy mingling with visitors on the sandy beaches and busy promenade. Thankfully, the proliferation of modern resort hotels along the beachfront has not detracted from the charms of the inner city.
Sousse is still regarded as having probably the finest old city in Tunisia, even if is fairly small. A warren of narrow covered alleyways nestling below the
ribat(fort) hides hundreds of colourful shops selling a myriad of local goods from carpets and porcelain to leather bags and olive oil. Outside the medina, there is also a vast modern shopping complex.
However, Sousse is not all just shopping and beach bathing. The town's museum, situated in the old
kasbah(castle), is renowned for its collection of mosaics, masks, statues, and other relics of the Roman occupation. There are also several miles of well-preserved ancient Christian catacombs and marble tombs in the town.
Sousse offers its many package-tour visitors all the facilities and surroundings of a relaxing seaside holiday, overlaid with the undeniably foreign and exotic atmosphere of North Africa, all at extremely affordable prices.
Nightlife in Sousse
Nightlife generally for tourists is confined to the apartment resorts and hotels, offering dancing and entertainment. Young Tunisians tend to gather on the beach promenade after dark.
Shopping in Sousse
There are bargains to be had in the alleyways of the Sousse old city for holidaymakers who can haggle successfully. Carpets and leatherware are favourite buys for tourists, but there is also a vast stock of cheap souvenirs on which to fritter away the holiday budget.
Some visitors are intimidated and do not enjoy bargaining with the souk shopkeepers, who usually begin negotiations with inflated prices. These visitors would be better advised to do their shopping in the adjacent modern shopping mall, which is crammed with shops offering local goods and wares from all over North Africa at fixed prices.
Things to do in Sousse
Most of the pleasurable and sporting activities offered to holidaymakers in Sousse are beach-based, including fishing, scuba diving, windsurfing, and water-skiing. There are also numerous excursions on offer for those keen on exploring more of the Tunisian coastline. In the town itself, delving into the ancient Roman history at the excellent museum and shopping are interesting diversions.
Things to be aware of in Sousse
Many visitors have complained that shopkeepers in the medina are overbearing, and even frightening, in their persistence. There have also been reports of pickpockets being active in the alleyways.
Dining in Sousse
Visitors to Sousse are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out, with a variety of options available like pizza, tapas, and French cuisine. Couscous is a local staple. Most of the better restaurants are located inside the luxury hotels; others are within walking distance of wherever you are staying.
Port El Kantaoui
The East Coast
One could be forgiven for imagining that the quaint blue and white holiday village of Port El Kantaoui had been built as a Hollywood set and simply uprooted and placed down on the Tunisian coast, flanked by two long stretches of perfect clean sandy beaches.
In fact, this is not far from the truth: El Kantaoui is a chic, purpose-built holiday resort which owes nothing to history, but everything to catering for the up-market tourist seeking leisurely luxury in an enchanting setting.
The El Kantaoui Complex is built around a modern marina. It can accommodate more than 300 vessels, most of them moored by millionaires. Its complex of hotels centres on the cobblestone streets of the perfect reproduction of a typical medieval medina, abuzz during the day with souvenir hunters.
In the evening, the action switches to the bars and cafes opposite the marina. The entire town has been termed a 'tourist ghetto' and is indeed a delightful and highly successful one, enhanced by its Mediterranean location and Moorish flavour.
Nightlife in Port El Kantaoui
Nightlife is low key, but most holidaymakers can find something to their taste whether it be simply lingering over a delicious meal, sipping drinks at a waterfront cafe, or enjoying the in-house entertainment at one of the hotels. There is also a casino about five minutes away.
Shopping in Port El Kantaoui
Like the entire resort, the shopping centre and model 'souk' in Port El Kantaoui is geared to holidaymakers, stocking mainly souvenir items with prices higher than elsewhere in Tunisia. Bargaining for goods is an entertaining experience, however. For better bargains and a more realistic Tunisian bazaar experience take an excursion to nearby Sousse.
Things to do in Port El Kantaoui
A variety of boat trips are offered from the Marina in the holiday resort of Port El Kantaoui,, including pleasure cruises, glass-bottomed boat tours, fishing expeditions, or dolphin viewing experiences.
The close proximity of the older, more established resort town of Sousse, just six miles (10km) away, means that visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds and travel between the two via the local 'Noddy Train', sampling the beaches and watersports on offer.
The two resorts also share two golf courses. Other pursuits include quad biking, horse riding, and beach camel rides, as well as a variety of excursions like shopping trips to Tunis, expeditions to view the Roman ruins at Carthage, the pretty village of Sidi Bou Said, or an evening in the desert at a Bedouin feast.
Things to be aware of in Port El Kantaoui
Port El Kantaoui is often extremely crowded and more expensive than the other holiday resorts in Tunisia. There are no facilities here for budget travellers because most hotels are top-rated establishments.
Dining in Port El Kantaoui
El Kantaoui bristles with excellent restaurants serving all sorts of cuisine and holidayakers will not be disappointed. Most of the best restaurants are fronting the Marina in the form of high class, sophisticated eateries, serving up traditional specialities and local favourites. Prices are modest by European standards, but higher than elsewhere in Tunisia.
Skanes
The East Coast
Skanes, with its beautiful and seemingly endless sandy beach, is a suburb of the Tunisian Mediterranean port town of Monastir. The town has happily given itself up as a tourist Mecca, centred on a modern marina and a revamped Medina crammed with souvenir shops and restaurants. Even its ancient Ribat (fort) has been rebuilt and glamorised by being used as the setting for several movies like Monty Python's
Life of Brian, as well as
Raiders of the Lost Ark.
The historic city of Monastir retains its ancient air of having been Tunisia's holiest place, and an important strategic stronghold that was once used as a base by Julius Caesar. Just a few miles from the centre of Monastir lies the extravagant stretch of grand hotels that have been built along the coast in the area known as Skanes. These magnificent architectural delights are set in acres of lush gardens, most of them encompassing their own patch of well-maintained sandy beach.
The Skanes hotels are well connected to Monastir and other nearby resort towns, like Sousse, by a tourist road train and a plethora of taxis. Monastir also has the advantage of having its own international airport. Parasols and umbrellas pepper the beaches, along with the stands of local vendors and watersports equipment renters.
Nightlife in Skanes
Holidaymakers will find that the nightlife in Skanes mainly centres on live entertainment and dancing provided 'in house' by the various hotels.
Shopping in Skanes
Like everywhere in Tunisia a great deal of fun can be had haggling for bargains in the local medina. Monastir and Skanes are also well supplied with modern shopping centres catering to tourist needs.
Things to do in Skanes
There is no need to move off the hotel beach to have an action-packed holiday in Skanes, with a wide variety of watersports on offer from jet skiing to paragliding. Those needing a break from the sun, however, will find plenty of interest in exploring the 8th-century Ribat, or fort, in Monastir, which houses an interesting museum containing a collection of ancient Islamic fabrics, pottery and other artefacts.
Also worth a visit is the mausoleum of Habib Bourgiba, the first president of Tunisia, with its magnificent gilded dome. Most visitors enjoy a cruise in a felucca (sailing ship) or a camel safari into the local countryside. Golfers are in seventh heaven with a choice between the renowned Palm Links and Flamingo 18-hole courses.
Things to be aware of in Skanes
Vendors and shopkeepers often pester tourists to buy their wares. There is little for children to do apart from enjoying the sandy beaches.
Dining in Skanes
Most dining in Skanes is confined to the hotel restaurants geared towards holidaymakers. But those wanting a change of eating venue are spoilt for choice in nearby Monastir, particularly around the marina and its adjacent shopping centre.
Here, restaurants, cafes, pizza parlours, and snack bars abound. Most of these establishments are aimed at European tastes and alcohol is served. Many even happily accept Euros in payment. Those wanting to try genuine local fare won't have to venture far and can enjoy the spicy dishes served with unleavened bread at far more affordable prices.
Overview of the Attractions in Tunisia
A popular holiday resort destination for tourists, Tunisia has more to see and do than just beautiful beaches scattered along its Mediterranean coastline, and luxurious resorts like Hammamet and Nabeul. There are countless attractions to meet just about every sightseer's needs.
Start off in the capital of Tunis, a fast-paced modern metropolis juxtaposed by a medieval Medina. Spend a few hours here taking in the history and hunting for bargains and souvenirs in the countless tiny streets lined with vendors touting antiques, pottery, jewellery, and other delights.
Head to the Bardo Museum to marvel at some of the world's greatest Roman mosaics, while just a few miles north of Tunis lie the remains of the legendary ancient city of Carthage, which dates back to the 8th century BC.
Heading south towards the Sahara affords visitors plenty of fascinating geographical features like the 'forest in the desert' at Ramada, as well as the dry salt lake at Chott el Jerid, and the remote oasis at Ksar Ghilane.
Zitouna Mosque
Tunis
The largest mosque in Tunisia, the Zitouna Mosque dates back to the 8th century; the 160 columns of the mosque were brought from the ruins of Carthage. Set in the heart of Tunis, the mosque was improved upon almost continually until the 19th century, when the minaret was added. Zitouna (or Al-Zaytuna) was the centre of learning and intellectual pursuits in Tunisia, and is considered the first Islamic university. Visitors to the Zitouna Mosque must dress modestly, and non-Muslim guests may only enter the courtyard. The mosque is surrounded by bustling souks on three sides.
Belvedere Park
Tunis
Tunis' largest parks, Belvedere Park covers 270 acres (110 ha) just north of the city. Known as the 'Lungs of Tunis' due to the scarcity of green spaces in the city, Belvedere Park has a number of family-friendly attractions to enjoy on fine days in Tunis. Children will love the Tunis Zoo, a pleasant facility with monkeys, bears, deer, peacocks, and elephants; while adults will marvel at the intricately-decorated high domed ceilings of the Turkish Pavilion. Belvedere Park has an art gallery featuring local contemporary works near the entrance gate, and when the weather is hot visitors can cool off in the shade of trees overlooking Lake Tunis on Place Pasteur.
Carthage
Tunis
Carthage was the base of a powerful trading empire during the Phoenician and Punic periods, ruled by the infamous conqueror Hannibal. Destroyed by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, the site was redeveloped a century later and became a Roman capital. Located in an affluent suburb roughly nine miles (15km) north of Tunis, the remaining ruins of ancient Carthage were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Visitors can buy a ticket for just a few dinars that allows access to up to 10 different archaeological sites, including the Antonin Baths, Amphitheatre, Water Cisterns, Basilica of Saint-Cyprien, Punic Tophet, and the Carthage Museum. Also on-site in the museum complex is the Acropolium (St Louis Cathedral), a stunning cathedral built in the late 19th century.
Address: Nine miles (15km) north of central Tunis
Kerkouane
Tunis
Approximately 50 miles (80km) east of Tunis lies Kerkouane, a former city of the Phoenician and Punic periods. The city was abandoned around the 3rd century BC, which meant it was largely ignored by the conquering Romans and is today the only remaining untouched Punic settlement. The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 1980s. The remains of Kerkouane and its famous necropolis are not large, and can be explored in about an hour. Visitors can look for the distinctive minimalist mosaics of the Punic god Tanit, and learn about the city's surprisingly modern town-planning. A small museum housing interesting relics and artefacts gives further insight into the history of Kerkouane. Set along an attractive bit of Tunisian coastline, visitors from Tunis will enjoy the peace of the site and lovely ocean views. The museum shop sells a few souvenirs and snacks, but a picnic lunch is the best complement to an excursion to Kerkouane.
Public Holidays in Tunisia
| |
2020 |
2021 |
| New Year's Day |
Wed. January 1 |
Wed. January 1 |
| Independence Day |
Thu. March 20 |
Thu. March 20 |
| Revolution and Youth Day |
Tue. January 14 |
Tue. January 14 |
| Martyrs' Day |
Wed. April 9 |
Wed. April 9 |
| Labour Day |
Thu. May 1 |
Thu. May 1 |
| Republic Day |
Fri. July 25 |
Fri. July 25 |
| Women's Day |
Wed. August 13 |
Wed. August 13 |
| Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) |
Sun. May 25 to Mon. May 26 |
Wed. May 14 to Thu. May 15 |
| Eid Al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) |
Thu. July 31 to Fri. August 1 |
Sun. July 20 to Mon. July 21 |
| Evacuation Day |
Wed. October 15 |
Wed. October 15 |
| Islamic New Year |
Wed. August 20 |
Sat. August 9 |
| Birth of the Prophet |
Wed. October 29 |
Sun. October 19 |
