Tunis Itinerary in One Day

Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia, is a fascinating blend of history, art, culture, and traditions, concentrated mainly in its ancient Medina, or old quarter. As a traveler, you’ll be captivated by the city’s rich past, evident in its architecture, monuments, and cultural heritage sites.

The Heart of Tunis: Exploring the Medina

If you only have one day to spend in Tunis, start by exploring the Medina, the oldest part of the city. Begin at Monument Place de la Kasbah, located in Place du Governement, a large square with several government buildings, including the town hall. The square combines Arab and colonial styles, a result of French colonial rule.

As you walk through the Medina, admire the nearby Mosque and Mausoleum Sidi Youssef Dey, a complex that includes a mosque and a mausoleum. The mausoleum is easily recognizable due to its beautiful green-tiled roof. Take a moment to appreciate the intricate architecture of this Ottoman-era building.

Walking along Rue du Pacha: A Street of Gated Beauty

After visiting the Mosque, continue your exploration of the Medina by walking along Rue du Pacha, one of the most picturesque streets in Tunis and one of the most photographed places. This street is characterized by facades, shutters, and doors in typical Arab style.

Take your time to wander along the street, admiring the beautiful gates present and finding the perfect angle for a photo! Don’t miss No. 29 on Rue du Pacha, where you can find one of the most interestingly decorated buildings in terms of decoration, with an elegant portico and beautifully decorated shutters.

The Mosque al-Zaytuna: A Marvel of Ottoman Architecture

In less than 10 minutes from Rue du Pacha, you’ll find the magnificent Mosque al-Zaytuna, also known as the Great Mosque or the Olive Tree Mosque. Unfortunately, this beautiful building is not accessible to non-Muslims. From outside, however, you can see the large gallery and the impressive minaret (about 44 meters high) that’s visible from several points in the city.

Exploring the Souks: A Sensory Experience

After visiting the mosque, head towards one of Tunis’ most important markets, Souk el Attarine, a thirteenth-century market that’s also one of the oldest and most suggestive in Tunis. Known as the spice market, it offers an unforgettable sensory experience due to its vibrant colors and intense scents that fill the air.

While wandering through its narrow alleys, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere rich in history and tradition, where every stall tells a story of ancient commerce and master craftsmanship! This market is not only a paradise for spice lovers but also renowned for its artisanal soaps, essential oils, and traditional cosmetics products like argan oil.

Discovering the Souk el Trouk: A Treasure Trove of Textiles and Antiques

Here you can discover the true essence of the country and lose yourself in stores, colorful fabric stalls, and street food. Additionally, between the alleys of the souk, you’ll find Au Palais d’Orient, one of Tunis’ most renowned tassel shops, which also offers a beautiful outdoor viewing area with a view of all the Medina!

The market stalls offer an impressive variety of products: luxury textiles, traditional clothing, and intricately worked leather items. This souk is especially famous for its traditional costumes and decorative accessories, reflecting Tunisia’s rich cultural heritage!

Evening Stroll along Avenue Habib Bourguiba

Finally, head to Avenue Habib Bourguiba, the main street of the modern part of the city, which is rich in shops, restaurants, and local bars. Enjoy a refreshing mint tea accompanied by some traditional sweets at one of the many cafes or bars, with a panoramic view of the Medina.

Alternative Itineraries

If you want to immerse yourself even more in local daily life, then we recommend visiting the Central Market, which is chaotic but also full of local products. The best time to visit it is during the morning.

If traveling with children, we suggest visiting Belvedere Park, Tunis’ only large park, which has a small zoo within its grounds!

Touring around the city for families

Morning – Guided walking tour in the Medina, visit to the Mosque, main squares, and souks.
Afternoon: Belvedere Park or Dah Dah Happy Land Entertainment Park

Free itinerary:

Morning – Walk through the Medina, Monument Place de la Kasbah, Mosque al-Zaytuna, Souk el Trouk, and Central Market.
Afternoon – Place de la Victoire and Bab el Bahr, Rue de la Hafsia (former Jewish quarter) and Rue du Pacha.

Morning tour at the museum:

Morning – National Museum of Carthage.
Afternoon – Medina and Monument Place de la Kasbah, Mosque al-Zaytuna, Souk el Trouk, Place de la Victoire and Bab el Bahr.

Excursion to Sidi Bou Said:

Morning – Excursion to Cartagena and Sidi Bou Said from Tunis (including transportation, starting 8:30 am, lasting 4 hours).
Afternoon – Visit the Medina with Mosque, souks, and main squares.

Before Departing

Useful tips:

Move around in the Medina, which is closed to traffic, so you can walk safely through streets and alleys without worrying about cars.
When traveling as a non-Muslim, it’s possible to visit some mosques, but most are closed to outsiders. Only admire the beautiful architecture and minarets from the outside.
Be prepared to negotiate when shopping in souks or hailing taxis; the rule of thumb is to “negotiate without being afraid”.

DEAL 1

Journeys of a Lifetime, Second Edition: 500 of the World's Greatest Trips

Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...

Food and Drink

Try local specialties at markets, traditional restaurants, or souks (just make sure everything is well-cooked). Always drink bottled water, not tap water.

Dress Code

Even during hot summer days, it’s essential to dress in a way that suits the location you’re visiting. Opt for clothing made from natural fibers like linen and cover-ups.

Information about Tunisia

Tunisia isn’t considered a particularly difficult country to visit as a tourist; just remember to behave respectfully when visiting local areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Tunis a safe city to visit?
A: Yes, Tunis is generally a safe city to visit, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Q: Can I visit mosques without being Muslim?
A: Some mosques are open to non-Muslim visitors, but most are closed to outsiders. Always respect local customs and traditions when visiting places of worship.
Q: What should I wear in Tunis?
A: Even during hot summer days, it’s essential to dress modestly and suitably for the location you’re visiting. Opt for clothing made from natural fibers like linen and cover-ups.
Q: Can I drink tap water in Tunisia?
A: No, it’s not recommended to drink tap water in Tunisia. Always drink bottled water or filtered water to stay safe.
Q: How do I get around Tunis?
A: Tunis is a walkable city, and many attractions are within walking distance. You can also use public transportation, such as buses and taxis.
Q: Can I visit the Medina without a guide?
A: While it’s possible to explore the Medina on your own, having a local guide can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the city more efficiently.
Q: What are some must-try foods in Tunisia?
A: Try local specialties like couscous, shawarma, and harissa. Don’t forget to try some fresh fruits and juices!
Q: How long does it take to explore Tunis?
A: Depending on your interests and pace, you can easily spend a week or more exploring the city’s many attractions and experiences.

Insider Tips

Visit the Bardo Museum before visiting the National Museum of Carthage.
Try some local street food for an authentic experience.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and ask locals for advice.
Consider purchasing a Tunis Pass, which grants you free access to many attractions and experiences.

Getting Around Tunisia

Tunis is a relatively small city, making it easy to get around on foot. However, there are also public transportation options available, including buses and taxis. Here are some tips for getting around:

Buses: Taxis are abundant and cheap in Tunis. You can hail one on the street or book in advance.
Taxis: Make sure you agree on a price before starting your journey. Many taxi drivers will speak English, so don’t be afraid to ask for directions or help with your luggage.

Language

Arabic is the official language of Tunisia, but many locals also speak French and some English. Here are some basic phrases to help you get by:

Hello: Marhaba (MAR-hah-bah)
Thank you: Shukraan (SHOO-krah-n)
How much?: Hal tahayt? (HAHL TAH-heyt?)
Where is…?: Aini wahat…? (AH-nee WAH-t)

Currency

The Tunisian dinar (TND) is the official currency of Tunisia. You can exchange your money at banks, currency exchange offices, or hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.

Accommodation

There are many options for accommodation in Tunis, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some tips:

Book in advance, especially during peak season (June-August).
Consider staying in the Medina or nearby neighborhoods for easy access to attractions.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with local hotels or riads.

Safety

Tunisia is generally a safe country to visit, but as with any travel destination, there are some precautions you should take:

Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night.
Follow local advice and instructions from authorities during demonstrations or protests.

Responsible Tourism

Tunisia is a developing country with many cultural and historical sites to explore. Here are some tips for responsible tourism: