You know what the Roman Colosseum, the Star Wars universe and Winston Churchill have in common? Tunisia! This country boasts not only a rich history, but also luxurious conditions for beach lovers. Madera Travel offers great options for a summer vacation in Tunisia. We tell you what you need to do while traveling to this country.
Tips for travelers before traveling:
- Drink only bottled water and remember to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
- It is not customary to leave a tip in Tunisia. It is acceptable to leave a small amount. Also, the tip may already be included in the final bill.
- Bargain till the end. Owners of private shops and pavilions in the market are not shy to raise the price for tourists five times or more.
- Do not keep valuables with you. Unfortunately, thefts and robberies are quite common on the streets of Tunisia. Remember the hotel safes: they will save your valuables and keep them safely hidden from intruders.
- Specify several drivers at once in the contract with the car rental company. If you rent a car, it is better to specify several people as drivers when signing the contract. If a policeman stops you, he will ask for your license and the rental agreement.
- Plan a visit to thalassotherapy. It involves therapeutic treatments using seawater and mud. Thalassotherapy centers are available in every resort.
Best time to travel to Tunisia
The weather in the resorts of Tunisia differs depending on the month and season.
If your goal is to spend days on white beaches, enjoy the sun and get a beautiful bronze tan, come from April to June. During this time, the water warms up to +22°C and the air to +30°C.
We recommend seriously considering a trip to Tunisia from September to November. During the velvet season, the water and air temperature is not inferior to the previous season. But the beaches of Tunisia become empty, the heat decreases, and prices gradually go down.
If you go to Tunisia with a sightseeing map and the intention to book all sightseeing tours, plan your trip for spring. The average temperature in March reaches +20°C. Do not forget that the evenings in Tunisia are very cold. Take warm clothes and a thermos with hot water with you.
The hottest months in the resorts are July and August. At this time, the air temperature reaches +40°C, water - up to +30°C. Warm and dry climate does not spoil the impression of vacation for fans of beaches. You can freely swim in the sea and sunbathe under the sun. Do not forget to apply sunscreen - at this time there is a high probability of not just tanning, but burns.
Popular resorts in Tunisia
Djerba Island
Djerba is the largest island on the expanse of the North African coast. The mainland can be reached by bridge or by ferry, which takes only 15 minutes.
Djerba Island is the warmest resort in Tunisia. The average temperature is consistently +3-+5°C higher than in other regions of the country.
It is on the island of Djerba that the beaches on the island seem to have descended from the screens of phones and computers. Just imagine: shining snow-white sand, crystal clear water, complete absence of algae. Add to this the warming sun and turquoise glow of the sea surface. It is worth coming to Djerba at least for the sake of such nature! There is one thing: you should come to the northeast of the island for such views.
Clinics and medical centers of thalassotherapy deserve special attention. There are separate institutions and centers at hotels on the island. Do not miss the opportunity to combine pleasant with useful and solve your health problems during your vacation in Tunisia.
By the way, there are also unusual locations that can surprise even the most experienced travelers. Would you like to visit a crocodile farm or go on a tour to the habitat of pink flamingos? What about the idea of a Star Wars itinerary, since some of the movies were filmed on the island?
Monastir
Monastir is a budget vacation destination away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The ancient city is famous for the fact that a few millennia ago Caesar set out from here on a campaign against Pompey.
The tourist area of Skanes is located outside the city. Here you can find excellent accommodation at an attractive price. Monastir is surrounded on all sides by dense tropical forests.
We advise you to pay attention to entertainment and activities in the city: would you like to take a trip on a yacht or go horseback riding? Maybe you are a fan of scuba diving or golf? Yes, yes, you can try all of these things in Monastir. Already decided on your choice?
If you go to Tunisia for an upscale beach vacation, try to find another option. The water is filled with seaweed and the waves are constantly knocking you off your feet. In addition, the entrance to the water in some places can be very sharp.
So who is Monastir ideal for? Lovers of historical values and sights, get ready to memorize all the advantages of the city. Here you'll find the 9th century Grand Mosque, the mausoleum of Tunisia's first president, and even the fortress walls of the old city. This is by no means a complete list of all the historical locations in the city.
Hammamet
This resort has earned the status of one of the most luxurious and prestigious in the country. Before traveling to Hammamet, you do not need to determine what you want from your vacation. This resort has everything. A wide range of thalassotherapy procedures, impeccable beach vacation and sightseeing, a vibrant nightlife.
This city is famous for its beaches, the length of which is 14 kilometers. The entrance to the water is gentle on practically the entire beach strip, and the sea is characterized by unperturbed calmness. By the way, many families with children make a choice in favor of Hammamet precisely because of the lack of waves. There is no need to worry about additional things: umbrellas and sun beds can be rented at any beach.
Hammamet is a real treasure trove of historical treasures. The first thing to do is to go to the Medina-Mediterranean complex. This tourist project is built in the open air. The complex is a medina in the traditional Arab style. This museum is surrounded by a wall that hides the inner part of the city from the gaze of outsiders. Inside the complex, tourists can take a closer look at the hotel, traditional market and themed entertainment space.
Be sure to check out the George Sebastian House and the botanical gardens. Imagine: Churchill and Sagan themselves lived here. Take time to enjoy the Roman baths, authentic interiors and cypress groves. By the way, every year in July and August, the Sebastian House is the site of the International Arts Festival. A great opportunity to remember your summer vacation in this country.
Yes, sometimes the prices for a vacation in Hammamet bite, but every day is worth the budget spent. By the way, they say that the president of Tunisia himself is vacationing here. Isn't it a guarantee that a luxury vacation is provided?
Sousse
A city of history and antiquities. This is exactly how we see Sousse. Stroll through the authentic streets of the medina to learn more about the history and life of Sousse. Numerous mosques and towers have been preserved in this part of the city. Take time to explore the catacombs with burials from the early Christian era.
Don't miss the opportunity to stop by the Ribat to view the small cells of the monastery and the Khalifa Tower. The real gem of Sousse is the city museum. Such collections of ancient masks, mosaics and statues cannot be found in any other country in the world.
Tourists come here all year round, and the city is completely adapted to them. The map gives out countless hotels, from the cheapest to the most luxurious. Choose what you want to do: go for a raucous party, take a boat trip from the picturesque harbor, play golf on a unique ranch or go windsurfing? We didn't forget to mention the clubs, bars and restaurants. They are found literally at every step. Everyone will find something to their liking and will not be bored day or night.
What you need to know about beach vacations? Of course, the beaches in Sousse are hard to compete with the pearls of Hammamet. They are neat and well-maintained, but it is still impossible to call them perfect. Tourists can spend time on both hotel and city zones. The sea water is clean, and the beaches themselves often have cafes and restaurants.
Sousse is perfect for an inexpensive and bright vacation with a nice bonus: numerous sights of the ancient world.
Mahdia
Mahdia is a serene and relaxed resort where you can completely disconnect from the noise and chaos of the metropolis. Many years ago, this city was supposed to become the new capital, but the plans did not materialize. Constant conflicts with the Turks, Spaniards and French deprived it of this status. This did not prevent Mahdia from becoming one of the main tourist destinations in Tunisia.
The beaches in Mahdia are not just beautiful, they are perfect. It is not for nothing that they are considered the best in the country. Fine white sand, gentle entrance to the water, absence of waves and azure water make the beaches objects of tourist attraction. Here you can rent umbrellas, sun beds, towels and even equipment for diving. There are city, municipal and even wild beaches at the tourist's disposal, if you want to be in complete silence and privacy.
We advise you to visit Borj el-Kebir, a Fatmid-era fortress that offers an incredible view of the city from its towers. Don't miss the Black Gate, which connects the old and new city. If you want to learn more about the culture and traditions of the locals, head to the Mahdia Museum. The collections of traditional jewelry and garments are amazingly diverse and unique.
Mahdia is famous for its silk production and seafood. We advise you to taste seafood dishes in local cafes and restaurants, and bring silk products as souvenirs. By the way, you can also try your hand at night fishing here.
Mahdia does not have a noisy and fun nightlife. Those who want to enjoy a quiet vacation with their families and loved ones come here. The best beaches in the country are ready to welcome every tourist.
Where to go in Tunisia
We have briefly described the attractions of each resort and their history. Now we will tell you about five places you should definitely visit no matter in which city you are vacationing.
Carthage
Just 35 kilometers from Tunis and you will see the ruins of the majestic Carthage. Now in the suburbs of Tunis you can study in detail the echoes of the ancient civilization and ask the guide all the questions. Scientists have not yet revealed all the secrets of life in Carthage, and excavations and scientific discoveries on this territory are still taking place. Just imagine that a few centuries ago Carthage was the main rival of Rome in the struggle for the world crown. By the way, the Oscar-winning movie "Gladiator" starring Russell Crowe was filmed here.
If your plane arrives at Tunis-Carthage Airport (TUN), the tour can be taken on the same day. The airport and the ruins of the ancient world are only ten kilometers apart.
We advise booking a tour at the hotel or travel agency at any resort. The average cost of an excursion to Carthage is from $55.
Sidi Bou Said
It is one of the most colorful and picturesque cities in Tunisia. What is its main attraction? All the buildings in Sidi Bou Said are painted in white and blue color. Not only buildings, but even urns, bicycles and lanterns are not out of the general color scheme. In the 20th century, a French baron achieved this design at the legislative level. Since then, the residents of the city never have disputes and conflicts during the next renovation.
This city surprises and inspires not only ordinary tourists, but also famous artists. Malevich and Kandinsky, de Maupassant and Chateaubriand sought inspiration here. Do not miss the opportunity to see the local Santorini with your own eyes.
Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul
If you have a trip to Tunisia in your plans, be sure to remember this place. The Catholic temple was named after a priest who was bought out of slavery. You will get a wow-effect at the first sight of the building: the rich decoration and huge scale of the cathedral can not fail to amaze. Just imagine these dimensions: 80 meters long and 30 meters high.
Inside the cathedral, there is an entire organ hall and two musical instruments that still sound beautifully today. This shrine remains the property of the Catholic Church under the Vatican.
Lake Schott el Jerid
Schott el Djerid is a salt lake in the Sahara Desert. To be precise, not a lake, but a salt marsh depression. Due to the high sun and hot climate, in summer Shott el-Jerid dries up and turns into a desert abyss. In winter, a completely different picture is observed. The entire space is filled with water, and small islands pop out of the water every now and then to delight the eyes of travelers.
Tourists are impressed by salt mountains and sulfate water, which is colored in different colors. By the way, this place is appreciated not only by travelers, but also by Luke Skywalker. It was from here that he watched the setting of the two suns of the planet Tatooine.
The amphitheater in El Jem
If you dream of traveling to Italy but still haven't been there, don't worry. You can see the Colosseum not only in Rome, but also in El Djem. It is hard not to notice the similarities between Italian and Tunisian sights.
Just imagine: the amphitheater was built over 2,000 years ago. And it's still standing today. Are you ready for another interesting fact? This historical value is the third largest in the world and the first outside Europe. Agree, the scale and significance impress even the most experienced traveler.
An adult admission ticket costs about $3.5. The price includes a visit to the amphitheater and the El Djem Museum of Archaeology.
Food in Tunisia: what should you try?
The national cuisine of Tunisia has absorbed the peculiarities of the region and those countries that repeatedly tried to conquer the territory. The main ingredients of local dishes are seafood, fruits and vegetables, bread and beef. We have put together a selection of five dishes to try while traveling.
Couscous
This cereal has practically become a national symbol of Tunisia. The recipes for its preparation pass from generation to generation, and it is impossible to count their exact number.
Traditionally, couscous is cooked in a large pot. Vegetables, meat or seafood are stewed on the lower level, and grits are stewed on the upper level. Before serving, the meat or seafood is placed on top of the grits, and the vegetables are poured over the sauce.
If you vacation on the island of Djerba, try couscous in local restaurants. There it is cooked with tuna and seafood. Fish broth, lemon, mint and fennel are added to the pot. The dish soaks up the flavors and is memorable for a long time.
Charissa
Are there spicy lovers among you? Harissa is an appetizer made of olive oil, chili peppers, spices and garlic. Sometimes cooks add tomato paste to it to soften the dish.
Traditionally, you should take a baguette with olive oil and dip it in harissa. Try it a little at a time, especially if you are not used to chili peppers. You can order the dish in almost every restaurant, as it is an invention of Tunisian cooks.
Tajin
Tunisians consider tagine an appetizer, but it can rightfully be a main course. Tagine is made of eggs, potatoes, chicken, cheese and aromatic herbs. According to the recipe, this dish resembles a hearty omelet, which is baked in the oven. Externally, it looks like a tall homemade pie.
Shorba
This is a hearty and rich soup of veal and vegetables. In the process of cooking, the cooks add wheat groats, which makes the soup quite thick. The process of cooking the first dish is also surprising: first the ingredients are fried in olive oil, then diluted to the right consistency with water and tomato paste. Shorba is one of the most popular meals among Tunisians.
Mahrud
We end our recommendations with a dessert. Mahrud is a "wet" sweet made of semolina. The most popular fillings for these cookies are candied oranges, dates and nuts. Cinnamon gives a special flavor to the dish: cooks do not spare it at all.
Vacation prices
You can book your favorite tour in Madera Travel's personalized selection. Decide what you want to get from the vacation, and go to the best resort in Tunisia. Prices start from €1384.
Currency and communication
The national currency is the Tunisian dinar (about $0.32). Mostly in the markets and shopping centers sellers accept cash payment. Currency can be exchanged in banks and hotels.
Please note that tourists can bring in and take out up to 5000 Tunisian dinars (about $1600). If you have a larger amount, be sure to declare it at the entrance to take it back freely. Do not exchange large sums at once: it is forbidden to take national currency out of the country. If you are going to exchange money back, you may need a receipt. Do not throw it away after exchange and keep it until you leave the country.
Wi-fi in public places practically does not work. If you plan to use maps, call cabs and contact your family and friends, buy a local SIM card. You can do it at the airport or at special points of sale in each city. Choose the most convenient tariff from the main operators - Orange and Ooredoo. Prices for a tariff with 1.25 GB mobile Internet start from $1.6.
Answers to popular questions
Which resort in Tunisia is suitable for a vacation with children?
For a family vacation it is better to choose hotels in Hammamet, Mahdia and on the island of Djerba. There are practically no waves here, and the beaches are ideal for a comfortable family pastime. At each resort you can book excursions around Tunisia to spend time together and expand your horizons.
What souvenirs to bring back from Tunisia?
Bring olive oil, spices and jams made from cactus and figs. These souvenirs will help you remember your trip to Tunisia for months to come.
If you have a big budget, buy silk, jewelry and leather goods. Tunisian craftsmen know all about the quality of these goods. Such souvenirs can not only be put in a prominent place, but also used every day. A great way to carry a piece of Tunisia with you, literally.
If I don't know Arabic, how do I communicate?
Locals can barely communicate in English even in the most popular tourist areas. You can communicate in French. If you don't speak French, buy a local SIM card to have an online translator at hand. Communication in English is practically undeveloped. We advise you to use an electronic translator and memorize a few words that will facilitate the process of communication with Tunisians:
- aslama - hello;
- bislama bye-bye;
- shnahwelek? - how's it going?
- Me nefkhamsh - I don't understand you;
- auni - help me.
