Best Things to Do in Tunis – Your Ultimate 2023 Guide!

Tunis, the captivating capital of Tunisia, is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and charm. With its narrow Medina streets teeming with hidden gems and its rich heritage deeply rooted in Arab, Berber, and European influences, Tunis offers an enchanting experience like no other.

This North African gem showcases a fusion of old and new, where traditional cultural heritage coexists harmoniously with modern amenities. From exploring the ancient kasbah to strolling down Avenue Habib Bourguiba, there are countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this town. So come and discover why Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia, is renowned as one of the best places to visit in the country. Here are the best things to do in Tunis.

1. Unveiling the Beauty of Sidi Bou Said: An Enchanting Day Trip

If you’re in the mood for a day trip that’s like stepping into a whole different world, you’ve got to check out Sidi Bou Said in North Africa. This super pretty village is like a postcard come to life, with its blue and white buildings. It’s a real hidden treasure in Tunisia.

Sidi Bou Said is famous for how it looks. As you walk down the cute, narrow streets, you’ll see white houses with bright blue doors and windows. These colors together look really cool and will make you want to take a million pictures. Whether you’re checking out the big fancy palace or staying at a hotel, there’s so much beauty to see in this village.

One of the coolest things about visiting Sidi Bou Said is all the art galleries, coffee shops, and street food places. If you’re into art, you’ll be super excited to see all the creativity, from traditional Tunisian art to modern styles. So take a slow walk through the village, stopping to look at all the cool stuff you can find.

2. Exploring La Goulette

La Goulette is a really cool neighborhood in Tunis that has so much to offer! It’s a busy port area, where cruises disembark, and has some of the most amazing seafood restaurants that you will ever try. Plus, it’s super convenient because it’s close to Tunis Airport, which is perfect if you’re flying in.

Take a leisurely stroll along the lovely palm-lined path when you arrive in La Goulette. It’s like entering a postcard, really! As you see the locals going about their daily lives, you’ll definitely get a sense of the lively atmosphere of this seaside place. You’ll feel alive and eager to explore thanks to the crisp sea air and lively spirit of La Goulette.

La Goulette offers more than simply delectable cuisine and lovely scenery. It also has a lot of amazing sites to visit. Visit Forte El Kantaoui or the Dar Ben Abdallah Museum for a brief history lesson. These are significant locations that can instruct you much about Tunisia’s colorful past. Going there is like going on a great school trip, except better since you’re actually there!

Read more: 15 Best Off-The-Beaten-Path Destinations In Tunisia

3. Day Trips from Tunis: Takrouna and Beyond

Visit Takrouna if you want to have a good time on a day trip from Tunis. The vista of the mountains and olive trees from this tiny settlement perched on a hill is breathtaking. It resembles a lovely photograph from a postcard.

Takrouna is distinguished by its adorable little cottages and fascinating history. It seems like stepping back in time to navigate its little streets. White paint covers the homes, which have brilliant blue windows and doors. A lot of fantastic photos may be taken there.

Beyond Tunis and Takrouna, there a ton of amazing places to see. Visit Dougga if you love wandering around abandoned and old buildings. Beyond Tunis and Takrouna, though, there is much to see. Visit Dougga if you enjoy wandering around abandoned buildings. But be aware that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is located around two hours from Tunis. So you should expect to spend at least one day visiting this amazing place. You may see historic Roman structures including a theater, temples, and baths, as well as interesting mosaics that depict how Tunisians used to live.

And if you really love history, you should go to El Jem. It’s also about two hours from Tunis. El Jem is known for having one of the best-kept Roman amphitheaters in the world. This huge building used to be where gladiators fought and chariot races took place. Walking through it is like being in a time machine, imagining how things were during the time of the Romans.

4. Zitouna Mosque: A Must-See Landmark in Tunis

One of Tunisia’s most stylish houses of worship is the Zitouna Mosque, sometimes referred to as the Great Mosque. You must go there if you’re in Tunis because of its fascinating history and wonderful architecture.

You’ll be astounded by the mosque’s size when you first enter it. The style is a hip mashup of North African and Islamic designs. There are stunning courtyards with brilliant tiles that, when exposed to sunlight, glow with an array of hues.

Be sure to explore the neighborhood as well when you are at the Zitouna Mosque. There are a lot of other interesting things to visit close by because it is on Tunis’s broad Avenue Habib Bourguiba.

5. Explore The Old Medina of Tunis

Get ready to explore the twisty streets of the Old Medina, a super old part of town that’s on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Also known as “La Medina,” this part of the city is like a huge maze of skinny streets and busy markets that have been around since the 9th century. Walking around here, it’s like going back in time, with beautiful old buildings and a lively, exciting feeling in the air.

One of the best parts of the Old Medina is checking out the traditional markets, or “souks.” These are astonishing markets full of different things to buy, like fabrics, handmade crafts, spices that smell amazing, and fresh fruits and veggies. Believe me, you will not want to go out of the Souks, they are just too amazing! It’s like a party for your senses with bright colors, yummy smells, and interesting tastes everywhere you look.

As you keep exploring, you’ll find some cool historic landmarks that tell the story of this North African city. One of them is Bab el-Bahr, or the “Gate to the Sea.” It’s a huge entrance to the Old Medina that was built to protect Tunis from bad guys trying to attack from the sea. Stand in front of it and imagine what it was like hundreds of years ago when it was used to keep the city safe.

6. Enjoy Bardo National Museum

You must visit the Bardo National Museum in Tunis, the country’s capital, if you wish to understand more about Tunisia’s incredibly fascinating past. It feels like entering a time machine!

There are some very amazing Roman mosaics inside the museum. These seem like really creative images created from small colored bits. They display historical information as well as depictions of ordinary life in the distant past, mythological tales, and significant historical occurrences. It’s as if you’re there when you look at them!

That’s not all, though! The museum is filled with artifacts from several cultures that have influenced Tunisia’s history. Treasures from the Carthaginians, interesting Byzantine artifacts, and intriguing items from Islamic eras may all be found here. Every item on exhibit has a narrative that transports you back in time. It’s like embarking on a fantastic time journey!

7. Discover Carthage

Imagine going back in time to see an ancient city. That’s what it’s like to explore the old ruins of Carthage. This city, which is pretty close to Tunis, lets you see what life was like a long, long time ago. With old Roman baths, museums, and amazing views, there’s something cool for everyone in Carthage.

You can check out places like the Roman Baths and the Antonine Baths complex. These old buildings show off how great ancient people were at building things. Take a look at the detailed mosaics, see how big the bathhouses were, and picture what it must have been like living back then.

You can also learn more about the history of Carthage at the Carthage Museum or the Punic Ports site. The museum has a bunch of things that were used way back when Carthage was first built up to when it was destroyed. Walk around and see old pottery, jewelry, and statues that tell you what everyday life was like in the old days.

8. Be Amazed By The Wonderful Dar Ben Abdallah

In Tunis, Dar Ben Abdallah is unquestionably a must-see location. Imagine entering a more than 200-year-old mansion and feeling as though you have traveled back in time. This location is now a museum that displays a variety of interesting artifacts related to Tunisia’s history. You may view the artwork produced back then and even get a glimpse into how people’s daily lives were. It’s like taking a history class, but since you’re there, it’s far more enjoyable!

But the coolness goes further than that. There are incredibly serene gardens located at Dar Ben Abdallah. It’s the ideal location for taking a break and simply taking in the tranquil atmosphere. Think of taking a seat among lush vegetation, away from the bustle of the city, and simply reflecting on all the great things you have witnessed. Don’t forget to stop by the museum store as well. They feature amazing items that you may buy for yourself or your friends that were created by regional artisans.

Read more: How To Travel Around Tunisia By Train?

9. Relax At Lake Tunis

Want a break from busy city life? Then you should totally visit Lake Tunis, which is just outside the main city. It’s a peaceful spot that lets you relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

A really fun thing to do at Lake Tunis is to go for a boat ride. You can rent a local boat and cruise around the lake just the way you want. As you’re sailing on the sparkling water, you’ll get to see awesome views of nature and cool buildings by the lake. It’s like a mini adventure right outside the city!

10. Experience A Traditional Tunisian Hammam

Get ready for a super chill time at a traditional Tunisian hammam. A hammam is like a bath, but it’s been a part of the local culture for hundreds of years. It’s a special way to relax and take care of your body and mind. Once you step into a hammam, you’ll feel like you’re in a peaceful bubble.

First, you’ll go into a steam bath. Imagine being surrounded by warm steam that helps you relax and open up your pores. It’s like going back to the days of Roman baths, where people loved these rituals for their healing powers.

After you’re warmed up, you’ll get a scrub down. The people who work at the hammam use special soap made from olive oil and a special glove called a kessa to gently scrub off dead skin. This leaves your skin feeling super soft and also helps your blood circulate better.

The last part is the best – a relaxing massage! The people giving the massages know a bunch of different techniques, from traditional Tunisian methods to modern ones. Just close your eyes and let them help you let go of any stress or muscle tension you might have. It’s like getting a little slice of heaven right there in the hammam.

11. Try Tunisian Cuisine

Tunisia is famous for its awesome food that’s full of different flavors. Trying out the local food is one of the coolest things to do in Tunis because it lets you really get a taste of the local culture.

One dish you’ve got to try is couscous. It’s a really common dish here and it’s super yummy. Imagine light and fluffy little grains with juicy meat and vegetables on top, all cooked in a tasty soup. It’s a mix of different flavors and textures that you’ll love.

Another fun food to try is brik. It’s like a crispy pie filled with stuff like tuna, eggs, potatoes, or cheese. You can have it as a snack or an appetizer. The outside is super crunchy, and the inside is filled with delicious goodies. It’s like a surprise in every bite!

And don’t forget about tajine. This is a slow-cooked stew with tender meat (usually lamb or chicken), lots of spices, vegetables, and sometimes dried fruits like apricots or dates. All these ingredients together make a dish that’s like a big warm hug for your taste buds. It’s like taking a delicious trip to Tunisia, without even leaving the table.

Read more: 6 Best Places To Visit In Tunisia For Beach

12. Shop at Souk El Attarine

Souk El Attarine is like a really busy, colorful, and exciting market. As soon as you walk in, you’re hit with a bunch of awesome sights, sounds, and smells that’ll make you want to explore every corner.

The souk has lots of narrow paths lined with stalls selling all kinds of things. There are spices that smell amazing, beautifully woven fabrics, delicate ceramics, and traditional handmade crafts. It’s like a huge treasure chest just waiting to be opened.

Here’s a sneak peek of what you can find at the souk:

• Spices: Your nose will love all the smells from spices like saffron, cumin, and cinnamon.
• Textiles: You’ll see all kinds of colorful fabrics, like silky scarves and cool traditional clothes.
• Ceramics: Check out the super-detailed Tunisian ceramics, they’re full of beautiful patterns and bright colors.
• Traditional Crafts: You can find awesome handmade stuff like leather items, wooden carvings, and metalwork.

So, if you’re someone who loves shopping and exploring, Souk El Attarine is definitely a place you have to visit.

13. Belvedere Park: Enjoy A Leisurely Walk

Sometimes when you travel, all you need is some time off to relax and enjoy the ambiance. Belvedere Park is the best option if you want to escape from the busy city. This peaceful park is a complete heaven right in the middle of Tunis. Once you step in, you’ll see beautiful gardens with colorful flowers and lots of green plants. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing walk.

One of the coolest things about Belvedere Park is that it’s super clean and full of neat paths that go all around the place. These paths let you see every part of this amazing park. As you’re walking, you can smell the sweet flowers and listen to the calming sounds of nature. It’s like a mini adventure right in the middle of the city!

14. Visit the Beaches

One of the best things to do is to visit the stunning beaches that line Tunisia’s picturesque coastline. With their golden sands and crystal-clear waters, these beaches offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

As you visit these beautiful beaches near Tunis, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The soft sand beneath your feet invites you to relax and unwind while soaking up the warm sun. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book or an area where you can socialize with fellow beachgoers, there are plenty of options available.

15. Admire The Architecture Of the Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul

The Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul in Tunis is like a really amazing building that shows off the city’s awesome history and culture. This place is right in the middle of Place de la Victoire, and it has been impressing people for a really long time with its beautiful design and intricate decorations.

Once you go inside the cathedral, get ready to be wowed! The inside is filled with super pretty stained glass windows that let colorful light shine through, making the place look magical. These windows show different religious scenes, making everything feel even more special.

The cathedral’s history goes way back to the 9th century when it was first a mosque during Arab times. But later, when the French ruled Tunisia, it got turned into a Christian church in the 19th century. Now, it’s the main church for the Archdiocese of Tunis. So, you can see how this one place has a super cool story that goes through different times and cultures.

Bottom Line

Tunis is packed with cool things to do and places to see. Whether you’re walking around the pretty village of Sidi Bou Said or checking out the old ruins of Carthage, you’ll find something fun to do in this exciting city.

So, why wait? Start planning your trip to Tunis right now! Get ready to dive into the city’s amazing culture, learn about its history, and see all its beautiful sights. You’re in for a real treat!