Date of publication 18/08/2023
Everything you need to know about traveling to Tunisia
Tunisia is one of those destinations you have to visit at least once in your lifetime. Berbers, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs all left their mark on this land, bathed by the Mediterranean Sea and touched by desert light, where myths and legends from another era come to life. If, like the heroes and heroines of ancient civilizations, you also dream of traveling to Tunisia and letting yourself be wrapped in the sun of the Maghreb, this is the right place to start.
The present-day Republic of Tunisia is located in North Africa, alongside the Atlas Mountains. Roughly 40% of its surface is part of the Sahara Desert. The rest is made up of beaches, fertile plains, lush valleys and oases, towns and cities of varying sizes, with Tunis, the capital, as its main urban center. This territory was once home to the legendary capital of the Punic State, Carthage, founded in the 8th century BC. In the sections below, we’ll cover everything you need to know before setting off on the adventure that will take you to this and other iconic places across the country.
Requirements for traveling to Tunisia
Travel requirements for Tunisia are minimal. To enter the country, you’ll need a valid passport (a national ID card is not accepted), ideally issued at least six months before your trip. At present, there is no requirement to present a COVID certificate or any other health document. However, it is recommended to carry travel medical insurance to cover unexpected situations during your trip.
Is it safe to travel to Tunisia?
Yes, traveling to Tunisia is safe. It is one of the more westernized destinations in North Africa and receives a significant number of visitors, so measures are in place to minimize risks for both locals and travelers. The country’s level of development is considered satisfactory, and health conditions are good. The risk of assault or theft is relatively low, as Tunisia has a low crime rate. That said, as a precaution, it’s advisable to keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially when moving around and in larger cities, just as you would anywhere in the world. Below are some additional tips to help ensure your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Tips for traveling to Tunisia
Even though Tunisia is safe, it’s worth following a few basic guidelines to avoid unnecessary risks. Before you go, make sure all your documents are in order, including your flight tickets. Once there, follow local authorities’ instructions at all times and respect local customs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against traveling to border areas with Algeria and Libya, including restricted military zones. It is also recommended to avoid traveling at night outside urban areas. In Tunis, as well as in major tourist destinations such as Mahdia, Hammamet, Monastir, the island of Djerba, and Sousse, you can expect a high level of safety during your stay.
Other recommendations? Plan your trip carefully and decide which places you want to visit so you can book accommodations and excursions in advance. This will save time and energy and help ensure you don’t miss anything. You’ll need special permits to access certain parts of the desert. Pack comfortable clothing and shoes for excursions, and don’t forget your swimsuit. Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate, hot in summer, mild in spring and fall, and somewhat cooler in winter, so keep this in mind when packing. If you’d like your vacation to be more sustainable, try to avoid single-use plastics whenever possible and make sure to collect any waste you generate when visiting beaches, cities, or other outdoor areas.
What to see in Tunisia
The Republic of Tunisia is a land of contrasts. Contrasts in time and space, in its natural landscapes, and in the many historical and cultural influences that reveal themselves as you travel from north to south. From idyllic beaches to historic cities, refined monuments, and almost otherworldly scenery, here are some ideas on what to see in Tunisia to make the most of your stay.
Beaches of Tunisia
Port El Kantaoui beaches
Port El Kantaoui is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Tunisia. Often referred to as the “Tunisian Marbella,” the town has a marina at its heart, built in 1979, with a medieval-style entrance leading into the center. The water is clear and turquoise, and the shoreline is made up of strikingly white, fine sand that forms small dunes in certain areas, hinting at the nearby desert. Surrounding it are several golf courses, charming seaside restaurants, shops selling clothing and local products, and winding streets that invite exploration.
This is where Iberostar Selection Diar El Andalous is located, a five-star all-inclusive resort surrounded by gardens reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights. If you’re looking for the best hotels in Sousse, this property, with three outdoor pools and one indoor pool, invites you to relax and recharge with a full oriental wellness experience that includes massages, relaxation baths, and a sauna. For couples seeking greater privacy and exclusivity, its Star Prestige areas offer a reserved, elevated space that makes each stay feel special. Nearby, the Port El Kantaoui golf course is perfect for practicing your favorite sport.
At Iberostar Selection Kantaoui Bay, three miles from Port El Kantaoui and 15.5 miles from Monastir Airport, you can enjoy the best local flavors at the Raihan restaurant, part of a culinary offering that also includes three additional restaurants and four bars. For those looking to reconnect body and mind, the hotel also features a spa with two hydromassage areas and a thalassotherapy center with a Turkish bath. Both properties are excellent family hotels in Sousse, catering to all types of travelers. Families with young children will find even more reasons to choose them, thanks to the Star Camp program and Aquafun areas with slides and water attractions.
Mahdia beaches
The beaches of Mahdia are quiet and so expansive that they feel almost empty, even in summer, with a look reminiscent of the Caribbean. Stretching for more than two miles, they form a distinctive white shoreline set against the striking hues of the Mediterranean, which is calm and shallow in this area. Visitors will find sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as restaurants, bars, cafés, and several water sports centers. In the background, a lush landscape of tropical shrubs and palm trees completes this postcard-perfect scene.
For those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Arab culture with all the comforts of a five-star hotel, Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour is an ideal choice. A standout among family hotels in Mahdia, it features a private beach and is located next to the old town, with elegant classic décor and modern touches. The property includes a thalassotherapy center, a spa with a hammam, a traditional café with shisha, Café Maure, and extensive sports facilities where guests can play tennis, pétanque, or soccer, practice archery, or join an aqua fitness session. Its Star Camp program and outdoor pools also make it one of the best hotels for kids in Mahdia.
Sidi Akkour Beach
Sidi Akkour is a beautiful beach located in Djerba, often referred to as “the island of golden sands,” a nickname given by writer Gustave Flaubert. In The Odyssey, Homer tells how Ulysses retreated to Djerba to rest after the Trojan War, escaping the song of the sirens. You can do the same on your next vacation while enjoying this dreamlike beach. But be careful, according to legend, anyone who tastes the island’s honey-flavored fruits will never want to leave. It’s well worth venturing to Tunisia’s island region to try its dates and see whether reality lives up to the story.
The Iberostar Waves Mehari Djerba hotel is located right on Sidi Akkour beach and ranks among the best family hotels in Djerba. Its outdoor area features over 12 acres of gardens and palm groves, and its Beach Bar lets you enjoy a drink with your feet in the sand. Its dining options include Arab, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisine. Through the Aliveness program, guests can reconnect with themselves and the surrounding nature through yoga classes, meditation sessions, and other wellness-focused activities. For those seeking a more elevated experience, Iberostar Selection Eolia Djerba is one of the best hotels with a pool in Djerba, a recently renovated five-star all-inclusive property with a spa and Iberostar’s most exclusive offering on the island.
The Iberostar Waves Mehari Djerba is located in Sidi Akkour, right on the beachfront. In its outdoor area, you'll find 50,000 m2 of gardens and palm groves. Its Beach Bar will allow you to experience having a drink with your toes in its golden sand. Their gastronomic selection includes restaurants with Arab, Mediterranean, and Oriental cuisine. With the Aliveness program, you can reconnect with your true self, immersing yourself in the nature around you and within yourself through yoga classes, meditation sessions, and other well-being activities.
Hammamet Beach
Hammamet is a traditional coastal town that has taken shape over centuries, creating a distinctive landscape of white, rounded buildings, temples, storybook houses, a port, and a souk. It’s the image that often comes to mind when imagining a vacation in Tunisia. It's more than 8.5 miles of beaches that complete the picture. Fine white sand and crystal-clear waters make this seaside destination one of the most popular among travelers drawn to Tunisia’s natural beauty.
This is where Iberostar Waves Averroes is located, offering rooms with beach views and a design where shades of blue echo the sea. Its Mediterranean architecture, with local influences, creates an immersive stay. From here, you can explore the medina of Hammamet and its bazaar or visit nearby cities such as Sousse and Monastir. The spa offers treatments including massages with natural algae and a Turkish bath. The culinary selection at the Olivier-themed restaurant and Laurier buffet includes traditional Tunisian dishes such as couscous, tajines, and stuffed briks.
For those seeking a higher-end family hotel in Hammamet, Iberostar Selection Mirage Hammamet is the answer. This five-star all-inclusive resort, with a spa, pools, and Star Camp for children, is located in Yasmine Hammamet near the Medina and marina, making it one of the best hotels with a pool in Hammamet for a family getaway.
Skanes Beach
Skanes Beach, near the ancient Phoenician settlement of Monastir, is one of the highest-rated in Tunisia. Here, everything is within easy reach. In addition to golfing or diving, you can explore the surrounding region, home to historic cities such as Sousse, Mahdia, and Kairouan, the Ribat fortress built in the 8th century, and the mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, Tunisia’s independence leader, born in Monastir.
Right on the beachfront is Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace, one of the best hotels in Monastir. It invites guests to stroll through its palm-filled gardens, enjoy local cuisine, including a buffet with show cooking featuring healthy Arab dishes, or unwind in its pools and Spa Sensations. This five-star property is designed for both families and couples seeking exclusivity. Its Star Prestige area, with a solarium and Balinese beds, is reserved for adults only. The hotel also offers a private beach area, five event rooms, and access to a nearby golf course.
Other places of interest in Tunisia
Tunis and Carthage
The best way to discover Tunis is on foot. The Medina district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hides a maze of streets, souks, traditional shops, and mosques that bring you closer to the most authentic Tunisian traditions. The Bardo Museum houses the world’s largest collection of mosaics, along with other significant archaeological remains. Avenue Bourguiba is the main artery of the modern city, lined with luxury boutiques and official buildings. In its port, La Goulette, traces of Turkish and Spanish influence remain. The viewpoint at Belvedere Park offers a particularly striking panorama. From the capital, you can take a trip to the ruins of Carthage, founded by the Phoenicians in 814 BC and still displaying its beauty by the sea today. The Roman villas, baths, and amphitheater are truly impressive. Don’t miss the Carthage Archaeological Museum either, home to jewelry, tools, and mosaics uncovered during excavations.
The holy city of Kairouan
Kairouan, also known as Kairouan or Al-Qayrawan, is located about 100 miles south of the capital. It is the fourth holiest city in Islam, after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem. For this reason, it is home to numerous mosques, including the Great Mosque of Kairouan, the Mosque of the Three Doors, and the Mosque of the Barber, which houses the mausoleum of a disciple of the Prophet Muhammad who, according to tradition, “was known for carrying three hairs from his teacher’s beard.” The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.
Its walled enclosure, built in the 11th century, holds great historical and artistic value. It protects the Great Mosque, whose most remarkable feature is its prayer hall, a forest of more than 400 columns in different architectural styles, brought from various locations over time. In its outer courtyard, accessed through impressive gates adorned with intricate details, you’ll find an extensive collection of carpets covering the floor and chandeliers that illuminate the space at night. Traveling to Tunisia offers a unique opportunity to better understand Islam through its architecture.
Troglodyte houses of Chenini and Matmata
The troglodyte settlements of Chenini and Matmata emerged when, in the past, Tunisian communities dug their homes into the rock of hillsides or into the ground to escape the heat and protect themselves from enemies, creating a network of underground dwellings. Their supplies were stored in ksur, fortified granaries built to prevent theft. Some of these structures have been transformed into cafés and restaurants, small museums, artisan workshops, and even accommodations. To travel from Chenini to Matmata, an arid area between the northern beaches and the southern desert, it’s best to rent a 4x4 vehicle, with or without a guide. A fun fact: Matmata was one of the filming locations in Tunisia for the first Star Wars movie, while Chenini appeared in The English Patient.
Hammamet, Sousse, and Monastir
Along Tunisia’s coastline, the towns of Hammamet, Sousse, and Monastir weave their colorful, bohemian presence together with some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. From the ribat of Hammamet, its fortress, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the sea. Its open-air souk is a feast for the senses, as is the terrace of the iconic Café Bab Sidi Bouhdid, where you can enjoy mint tea or a delicious Tunisian-style tajine. In Sousse, notable highlights include its whitewashed houses with domes facing the coast, the catacombs, and the medina. In Monastir’s ribat, you’ll find its famous minaret, now home to the Center for Islamic Art, which preserves an astrolabe dating back to 927. Nearby stands the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, with its large golden dome, a remarkable example of funerary architecture.
Weather in Tunisia
Tunisia has a typical Mediterranean climate. This means summers are usually hot, with higher temperatures inland and in the south, while winters are mild. Spring and fall bring more moderate weather, which is why many travelers choose to visit between March and May or from September to December to enjoy pleasant temperatures. Rainfall is generally concentrated in the cooler months. In August, the average high reaches 34ºC (93°F), while in winter, the average low is around 16ºC (61°F). On August 5, the hottest day of the year, temperatures range between 23ºC (73°F) and 34ºC (93°F). On January 20, the coldest day, the temperatures range from 8ºC (46°F) to 16ºC (61°F).
In Tunisia, the desert meets the sea. If you’re planning to spend your vacation on one of its beautiful beaches while enjoying sunshine and good weather, as well as taking excursions to explore its landscapes, culture, and history, the best time to visit is from spring through fall, including the summer season.
Traveling to Tunisia with children
Thinking about traveling to Tunisia with kids? A great activity to enjoy together, especially if you’re fans of the saga, is exploring the Star Wars galaxy in Tunisia. To do this, head from the mainland to Djerba, whose desert landscapes and retro-futuristic architecture served as the setting for many scenes in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. It’s worth spending a few days on the island to visit the filming locations at a relaxed pace. Looking for more ideas? Stroll through Sidi Bou Said, one of Tunisia’s most charming towns, where children can stimulate their senses as they take in its colorful houses and artisan stalls. Visit the Chebika Oasis, a lush, almost surreal setting filled with plants, waterfalls, and natural pools. Spend the day at the beach enjoying water sports, then share a traditional dinner by the sea.
Iberostar hotels in Tunisia are designed so that all types of travelers feel welcome and well cared for, including families with children, couples, and small groups. Iberostar’s family-friendly hotels in Tunisia offer adapted rooms, as well as several indoor and outdoor pools with Aquafun areas, Star Camp spaces, and many other amenities, so that while children are having fun, adults can relax and enjoy their vacation. No matter who you travel with, this remarkable North African country, with its Mediterranean essence and Arab soul, will welcome you with open arms.
