Tunis Hotels

Start by exploring how the other half live at Dar Ben Abdallah, a magnificent 19th Century palace that makes Buckingham Palace look like a tin shack! Next, catch a show at the majestic Theatre Municipal de Tunis, a place where theatre magic happens. Up for some haggling? Hit up the sweet-smelling Souk El Attarine and the Souk El Birka to bag a bargain or 10. And then, to get yourself ready for a night spent bar-hopping and restaurant-trying, grab some R&R in Belvedere Park with its killer view of Lake Tunis. Perfection!

Tunis’ Top 10

Tunis History

• Dougga - Once a Roman town, now an historical site that you can explore.
• Bab El Bhar - The gate into Medina. Because it used to face France, it was once called the French gate.
• Catacombs - This is a fascinating cemetery. If only the walls could talk.
• Zitouna Mosque - An active mosque that was built in 860 AD.
• Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul - A lovely church next to Medina where you will appreciate the quiet.

Tunis Art & Culture

• Bardo Museum - Part art museum, part history museum, with spectacularly intact Roman mosaics.
• Tourbet El Bey - Native architecture and the tombs are mysterious and fascinating.
• Dar Ben Abdallah Museum - This former officer's home has been refurbished.
• Dar Lasram - A former palace and now home to the Association de Sauvegarde de la Medina, a conservation organization.
• National Theatre - Built in 1902 by the French, it is a beautiful example of art nouveau.

Tunis Shopping

• Medina of Tunis - An open-air market and a marked World Heritage Site.
• Central Market - Operating since the 19th century. Fun, even if you don't buy anything.
• Mains de Femmes - This is a specialty store featuring handicrafts by Tunisian women's cooperatives.
• Hanout Arab - Tunisian crafts including jewellery and pottery at a fixed price.
• Fella - An upscale boutique that has had some very famous clientele.

Gay & Lesbian Tunis

• Blanko Kitesurfclub - A gay-friendly bar and party place. You can also take kite-surfing lessons.
• Avenue Bourghiba - The most commonly known cruising site in the area.
• Cap Bon - A residential area in which many well-to-do gay men have purchased homes.
• Toto Tours - This is a professional touring company that markets Tunis to gay men.
• Tunisia Sex Guide - Easily found online, this is the guide to being gay in Tunis.

Tunis Events

Who can resist the lure of the Tunis Furniture Exhibition in January to February? Bring plenty of cash – and a seriously big suitcase.

The Mediterranean Guitar Festival in March is the place for great tunes and cool crowds. Different genres are featured. Death metal, anyone?

Celebrate words ’n’ stuff at the Tunis International Book Fair during April and May.

Release your inner film critic at May’s International Film Festival. This is a pretty big deal for the city, so wear your shiniest diamonds and sharpest tux. Left your diamonds and tux at home? Slap on some jeans and go.

The Medina (old city area) will grant your every bargain wish with the stack of souqs open every single day. Pick up everything from cheap-as-chips silver jewellery to the most exquisite handmade silk scarves. Don’t forget to haggle!

When To Go

If you’re not a rain fan, it’s best to avoid the city from October to February.

Summer averages 28°C (82°F), so slap on the sunscreen and pack plenty of cool clothing.

Tunis’ winters are pretty mild, so you can leave that big ol’ coat at home.

Getting Around

Most tourist spots lie in and around the Medina. Getting around on foot isn’t just possible; it’s advisable.

SNCFT trains are the best bet if you want to move around the greater city area.

While the Tunis Metro (light rail system) is fast and cheap, it’s also quite limited in terms of lines and routes.

General Information

Attractions & Activities

Restaurant & Nightlife

Climate