Visit Tunisia
Tunisia may be mainly known as a summer sun and sea travel destination, but off the beach there is much more to discover. In the south, the Sahara's swath of desert sand scattered with lonely oases offers landscapes of rolling dunes that are ripe for adventure tourism activities, while in the north, the ruins of ancient towns sit snug within fertile hill country and are easy historic day trips from Tunis.
Tunisia's geographical situation laid it open from time immemorial to empire builders. The Roman amphitheater at El Djem is only the most famous of the country's historical sights, which take in Phoenician and Roman ruins, Roman and Byzantine mosaics, and Arab and Ottoman forts.
For those who want to explore beyond its feted beaches, Tunisia's small size makes it simple to experience a mix of culture, history, and landscapes even on a short trip.
Inspirational Ideas for Planning Your Trip to Tunisia
For beach vacations, head straight to the Mediterranean shore. Away from the coast, Tunisia provides plenty of adventure activities amid the vast desert landscapes of the Sahara, famous film locations for fans of movies such as the Star Wars franchise, and some of the grandest Roman ruins in north Africa.
Plan what not to miss in your holiday itinerary by checking out our overview articles on the country's highlights.
Best Time to Visit Tunisia
Summer: If you're traveling to Tunisia solely for the Mediterranean beaches, summer is high season, with sun and blue skies from June through August. Beach resort prices are highest during July and August. Desert trips are best avoided during this season due to rocketing temperatures.
Fall (September & October): As well as spring, fall is the best time to visit Tunisia if you want to travel around the country rather than simply bask on the beach. The weather is still mostly sunny and warm, but the high temperatures of July and August have tempered down in the south, so desert trips are back on the cards. Expect some rain in October in the north.
Winter: Tunisia's northern region and the Mediterranean coast receive most of their rain from around late October to May. It can get very chilly (including in the desert after dark), so bring warm clothing. The coastal beach resorts may be quiet, but this is a great time if you're traveling specifically for the desert.
Spring: Lots of blue skies (though expect rain along the coast and in the north) and moderate temperatures make this an excellent season for visitors who want to travel around the entire country.
Visitors Guide to Tunis
Tunisia's capital, Tunis, is a laid-back introduction to the country. Many tourists spend little time here, often only visiting as a day trip from the beach, but Tunis is the contemporary heartbeat of Tunisia and has plenty to keep visitors busy for a few days.
Spend some time exploring the wriggling alleys of the historic medina (old town), soaking up the ambience of Sidi Bou Said, admiring the world-famous mosaic collection inside the Bardo Museum, and visiting the rambling ruins of once-mighty Carthage before setting off on farther travels.
Best Towns in Tunisia
Many visitors here to soak up the sun on the beach head directly to the Mediterranean coastal towns of Hammamet and Sousse, and the island of Djerba, which are particular favorites with overseas tourists. If you're interested in history and culture, don't miss the town of Kairouan, with its labyrinthine medina, and the desert oasis town of Tozeur with its preserved brick architecture.
- Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hammamet
- Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sousse
- Top-Rated Tourist Attraction in Djerba
- Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kairouan
- Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tozeur
- Exploring Tozeur's Oasis: A Visitor's Guide
- Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Monastir
- Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sfax
- Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mahdia
- Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bizerte
Historic Highlights of Tunisia
Tunisia's star historical attraction is El Djem, a massive and wonderfully preserved Roman amphitheater that was the fourth largest ever built during the Roman era. Tunisia, though, has a long and rich history, and there are plenty more historic remnants for travelers who want to delve further.
The two most impressive Roman city ruins, Dougga and Bulla Regia, are in the country's north and can be easily visited as day trips from either Tunis or Tabarka.
Essential Stats & Facts
- Population of Tunisia: The population of Tunisia is 11.8 million. Nearly the entire population lives in the country's northern half and along the coast. Around 70 percent of Tunisia's population live in urban areas.
- Capital of Tunisia: The capital of Tunisia is Tunis, which has a population of two million.
- Geography of Tunisia: Tunisia is a thin country rimming the Mediterranean Sea to the north and sharing borders with Algeria to the west and Libya to the east. The northern half of the country is mountainous, while the Sahara desert covers much of Tunisia's southern half. In total, Tunisia covers an area of 163,610 square kilometers.
- Languages of Tunisia: The official language of Tunisia is Arabic. French is widely spoken in Tunisia despite having no official language status. Tamazight is also spoken by the Amazigh (Berber).
- Currency of Tunisia: The currency of Tunisia is the Tunisian dinar.
- Time Zone of Tunisia: The time zone of Tunisia is UTC + 1.
