Tunisia holidays

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Ancient cities, forgotten villages, deserts and beaches – Tunisia holidays serve up sunbathing hotspots with a side order of history.

Markets, medinas and mosques

Shopaholics will be in their element on a holiday to Tunisia. Seek out authentic bargains and gifts while practising your haggling skills in the markets and souks – many of which can be found in the maze-like medina quarters of Tunisia’s towns and villages. Meanwhile, ornate mosques provide historic sightseeing opportunities.

Saharan sands

The closeness of the Sahara means desert safaris are easy to come by. Hop in a 4x4 and you can hurtle across the dunes, exploring a landscape that’s remained unchanged for centuries. Alternatively, go horse riding, stopping at an authentic Bedouin camp for mint tea along the way.

Food for thought

The local cuisine draws heavily on its country’s rich history, and is a heady mix of North African spice, delicate French touches and a big helping of Mediterranean influences. Traditional dishes include brik – a tuna and egg pastry – and mechouia salad, made of red peppers, tomatoes and onions.

Popular hotels in Tunisia

Top things to see and do in Tunisia

Beaches

North African sands

Sweeping arcs of sand and calm waters greet you along Tunisia’s Mediterranean coast. The beaches here put their own African twist on the typical sun, sea and sand combo – expect camel rides along the shore and beachside cafés serving peppermint tea.

Shopping

Bargain buys

Haggle your way around Tunisia's souks and medinas and you’ll easily snap up a bargain. The Hammamet Medina on the mainland offer the best choice – the crooked streets play host to stalls that are heaving with handmade rugs, blue ceramics, Arabesque birdcages and chunky jewellery.

Designer buys

Tunis is great if you’re not on a budget. The capital specialises in big designer names, like Versace, Armani and D&G. The tree-lined avenues in the Le Lac district are a good place to start your shopping spree.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

Nightlife in Tunisia tends to revolve around the hotels, with belly-dancing and Bedouin shows regular fixtures. If you’d rather get dressed up and go out, Yasmine Hammamet has a marina, which is accessorised with stylish bars and seafood restaurants.

Lively evenings

Hammamet has a lot to offer night owls. In the south of town, the main strip is dotted with karaoke bars and open-air lounges pumping out everything from house to salsa.

Food & drink

Brik

Tunisia’s twist on the Cornish pasty makes for a great snack in between trawling the souks. These delicious pastry parcels are stuffed with a lightly-cooked egg, which is accompanied by the likes of tuna, parsley and potato. The whole thing is then baked in olive oil until it turns crispy and golden.

Couscous

Couscous is Tunisia’s national dish. These fluffy semolina grains are mixed with everything from fish and hot peppers to crunchy vegetables. They’re usually topped with spicy lamb to create a giant, help-yourself stew.

Chorba

This Tunisian starter is a staple at Ramadan feasts. It’s a thick soup made with tomatoes, onions and pasta grains. Do as the locals do and enjoy it with crusty bread that’s been dipped in harissa – a hot chilli dip of crushed pepper, garlic and spices.

Mechouia

Usually served as an appetiser in Tunisia, mechouia is a fresh salad that’s made up of crunchy lettuce leaves, diced onions, red peppers and tomatoes. The whole thing is drizzled in olive oil and garnished with tuna and hard-boiled eggs.

Mint tea

Lots of hotels in Tunisia will offer you a cup of mint tea on a silver tray as a welcome drink. Traditionally, it’s served with fresh mint leaves floating in the cup, and in some regions it also comes with the addition of pine nuts. If you eat out, you’ll normally receive a complimentary cup after your meal – it’s great for washing your dinner down.

Facts about Tunisia

Capital

Tunis

Currency

Tunisian Dinar

(TND)

Population

10,549,100

Language

Arabic

Time zone

GMT +1

Flight duration

Enfidha – 3 hours from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What is the nightlife like in Tunisia?

Nightlife in Tunisia varies by location. Resort areas offer entertainment with bars, live music, and cultural shows. Some coastal towns have beachfront clubs. In cities, you'll find cafes and restaurants open late, particularly during summer.

Where can I find traditional Tunisian cuisine?

Traditional Tunisian cuisine is often available at your resort's restaurants. Many offer themed nights featuring local dishes. For an authentic experience, ask your TUI rep about nearby restaurants that serve specialities like couscous and brik.

Is tipping customary in Tunisia?

Tipping is appreciated in Tunisia, but not obligatory. In restaurants, a service charge is often included. For good service, leaving 5-10% of the bill in Tunisian Dinars is common. Tipping hotel staff and taxi drivers in small amounts is also customary.

What are the customs and etiquette travelers should know in Tunisia?

In Tunisia, dressing modestly is appreciated when exploring local areas and markets. Greet people with 'Salam' or 'Marhaba' to start conversations warmly. If you're offered mint tea, accepting is a nice gesture. When visiting mosques, remember to remove your shoes. During Ramadan, it's polite to avoid eating in public during daylight hours.

What electrical plug do I need for Tunisia?

Tunisia uses Type C and Type E sockets, both with two round pins. Bring a European-style adapter for your UK devices. These adapters are widely available and will allow you to use your electronics throughout your stay in Tunisia.

What should I wear in Tunisia?

In Tunisia, wear light, loose-fitting clothing suitable for warm weather. At beach resorts, standard swimwear is acceptable. When visiting towns or cultural sites, dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. We recommend bringing a light scarf for women to cover their heads when visiting mosques.

What should I pack for Tunisia?

For Tunisia, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, and beach essentials. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses. We recommend comfortable walking shoes, a day bag for exploring, and any necessary medications. Include a light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in spring and autumn.

What are the best beaches in Tunisia?

Tunisia offers a variety of beaches along its coastline. Hammamet Beach is known for its golden sand and Mediterranean waters. Sousse Beach provides a long coastline suitable for water activities. On Djerba Island, you'll find beaches with shallow waters that are popular with families.

What are the best shopping options in Tunisia?

Tunisia offers diverse shopping experiences. Medinas in cities like Tunis and Sousse feature traditional markets selling carpets, ceramics, and spices. Modern shopping centres near resorts provide familiar brands and local goods. For authentic souvenirs, look for olive wood carvings or colourful pottery in resort gift shops or nearby artisan markets.