Places to Visit in Tunisia – Top Attractions & Best Things to Do
Tunisia is a North African country known for its Mediterranean beaches, historic medinas, desert landscapes, and ancient Roman sites. From coastal resorts on the northeast shoreline to oasis towns on the edge of the Sahara, Tunisia offers a mix of relaxation, culture, and light adventure for solo travelers, couples, and families. Below are some of the best places to visit in Tunisia and what to do in each.
For accommodation options, explore the Best Hotels in Tunisia.
You may also visit the Tunisia Country Page for more travel details.
Top Attractions & Best Things to Do in Tunisia
1. Tunis & Medina of Tunis
Tunis, the capital, combines a historic old medina with modern districts and easy access to nearby coastal suburbs.
Why Visit?
Ideal for first-time visitors who want a mix of traditional markets, historic streets, and city comforts such as cafés and transport links.
What to Do
- Stroll through the Medina of Tunis with its narrow lanes and traditional shops.
- Relax at cafés and small squares inside or near the old city.
- Use Tunis as a base to reach nearby areas like Carthage and Sidi Bou Said.
Best Time to Visit
March–May and September–November, when temperatures are usually mild and comfortable for walking.
2. Sidi Bou Said
Sidi Bou Said is a hilltop village overlooking the Mediterranean, known for its white-and-blue houses and sea views.
Why Visit?
Perfect for couples, photographers, and relaxed travelers who enjoy scenic viewpoints and charming streets.
What to Do
- Walk through the village’s whitewashed lanes with blue doors and windows.
- Visit cafés with terraces overlooking the sea.
- Enjoy viewpoints across the Bay of Tunis.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn (March–May, September–October) for pleasant temperatures and clear views.
3. Carthage Area
The Carthage area near Tunis contains important archaeological remains from the ancient city of Carthage, set close to the coastline.
Why Visit?
Great for history-minded travelers interested in seeing well-known ancient Mediterranean ruins in a coastal setting.
What to Do
- Visit archaeological sites spread around the Carthage district.
- Combine sightseeing with walks near the shoreline.
- Use nearby train or road links from Tunis for an easy day trip.
Best Time to Visit
March–May and September–November, when it is usually not too hot for outdoor exploration.
4. Hammamet
Hammamet is a popular coastal town known for sandy beaches, resort areas, and a compact historic center.
Why Visit?
Ideal for families and couples who want a beach-focused stay with easy access to restaurants, promenades, and light sightseeing.
What to Do
- Relax on sandy Mediterranean beaches with gentle waves.
- Walk along seaside promenades and resort zones.
- Explore the old-town area and small coastal viewpoints.
Best Time to Visit
May–October for warm beach weather, with July–August being the hottest and busiest months.
5. Sousse & Port El Kantaoui
Sousse is a coastal city with a historic medina, while nearby Port El Kantaoui offers a modern marina and resort environment.
Why Visit?
Good for travelers who want both cultural exploration and modern seaside facilities.
What to Do
- Walk through the Medina of Sousse with its traditional streets.
- Enjoy beaches and the marina area at Port El Kantaoui.
- Explore city viewpoints and coastal promenades.
Best Time to Visit
May–October for beach stays; spring and autumn for milder city sightseeing.
6. Djerba Island
Djerba is a southern island known for its flat landscapes, palm trees, and long sandy beaches.
Why Visit?
Perfect for a relaxed island stay with warm weather, beaches, and a slower pace compared with larger cities.
What to Do
- Relax on the island’s beach areas.
- Visit markets and villages for a look at local life.
- Enjoy scenic drives along coastal and inland roads.
Best Time to Visit
April–June and September–October for warm but generally manageable heat.
7. Tozeur & Oasis Region
Tozeur is an oasis town on the edge of desert landscapes, with palm groves and nearby desert scenery.
Why Visit?
Ideal for visitors who want to experience palm-filled oases, desert viewpoints, and a different side of Tunisia beyond the coast.
What to Do
- Walk among palm groves and oasis quarters.
- Take excursions to surrounding desert viewpoints and dry landscapes.
- Explore the old quarter with its traditional brickwork facades.
Best Time to Visit
October–April, when temperatures are usually more comfortable in inland and desert areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tunisia known for?
Tunisia is known for its Mediterranean beaches, historic medinas, ancient sites such as Carthage, and desert and oasis landscapes in the south.
Is Tunisia suitable for family travel?
Yes. Coastal destinations like Hammamet, Sousse, and Djerba often appeal to families, while Tunis and Sidi Bou Said offer cultural experiences with accessible facilities.
What is the best time to visit Tunisia?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally considered the best times overall, with warm but moderate temperatures along the coast and in major cities.
Which destinations are best for first-time visitors?
Tunis (with Sidi Bou Said and Carthage nearby), Hammamet, Sousse, and Djerba are popular choices for a first visit to Tunisia.
Summary
Tunisia brings together Mediterranean beaches, historic towns, and desert-edge oases in a relatively compact country. Whether you are walking the lanes of the Tunis medina, enjoying the sea views of Sidi Bou Said, relaxing by the beaches of Hammamet and Djerba, or exploring the oasis streets of Tozeur, Tunisia offers a varied yet manageable travel experience. For hotel choices, visit the Best Hotels in Tunisia.
