Tunisia in North Africa is a melting pot with a rich history that involves the Romans, Berbers, and the Ottoman Turks amongst others. Whilst most visitors are happy to lay on the beach or enjoy the local bazaar and nightlife if you venture further you will find a country full of History, Nature, and activities such as Golf or Jeep Safaris. Tunis is one of the most overlooked cities in North Africa. While many head to Marrakech in Morocco this City seems to have escaped most people’s notice. The obvious first stop is Carthage with old Roman remains and an Amphitheatre you can walk around. But take the little blue train from the City to Sidi bou Said – a very pretty hillside village – or for something different head to La Marsa just outside the city. Reminiscent of the French Riviera this is where the chic locals hang out and in nearby Gammerth is Tunis’s best hotel – The Residence – a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. One of the nicest resorts is Port el Kantaoui – built in 1979 it has a range of upmarket hotels centred around a Marina where yachts berth from all over the Mediterranean. Quaint streets and Moorish architecture provide North African flavour in a tourist-friendly environment
Insider tip
Location, Location, Location! – Well Le Barberousse a restaurant in Hammamet Old Town certainly has that. At the top of a hill above the Castle (There’s no lift so you need to be fit – follow the directions for the Medina/Kasbah and keep going up) ) with incredible views and food to match this is one of our favourites. Try and get a table by the sliding windows and go at Sunset. Reservations are usually needed in Summer or at Weekends Tel +216 72 280 037
Events and festivals
The Yasmin Hammamet Festival takes place on the 12th July each year in this newly purpose-built resort. There is Live music and poetry readings plus art exhibitions with a general festive air. Many people travel to Tunisia just for the Falconry Festival held in Haouaria (known as the “country of eagles”) late June (usually 23 to 25th) each year. Over 200 breeders come to display the skills of the sparrow hawk and pilgrim falcon.
Popular things to do and see and unmissable experiences
For something a bit different the El Guetma Necropolis tombs can be found 490 miles from the coastal town of Tabarka – they are over 4000 years old and were originally carved by the Amazigh people.
Climate
The coastal Areas of Tunisia enjoy dry, hot summers with average daily highs around 30°C, and, even in winter, around 7 hours of sunshine most days.
Other information
- Best time of year to travel: The weather is mild in the Spring and Autumn but this is an all year round destination
- Currency: Tunisian Dinar
- Flight time from UK: 3.5-4 hours
- Visa and passport information: A visa is not required for UK citizens
