Tunisia, a captivating country in North Africa, is a destination where ancient history meets Mediterranean charm. Famous for its Roman ruins, vibrant souks, golden beaches, and desert landscapes, Tunisia offers a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. From bustling coastal towns to peaceful desert oases, every city in Tunisia has something unique to offer.
For travelers looking to explore the best of Tunisia, this guide highlights the 10 must-visit cities that showcase the nation’s beauty, history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history lover, a beach enthusiast, or an adventurer, Tunisia has a city waiting to inspire you.
1. Tunis
Tunis, the capital city, is a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern development. With its bustling medina, grand boulevards, and nearby ruins of Carthage, Tunis is both culturally rich and historically significant.
Highlights:
Explore the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with markets and mosques.
Visit the Bardo National Museum, home to one of the world’s finest collections of Roman mosaics.
Take a trip to the ruins of Carthage, once a powerful Phoenician city.
Wander through the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said with its blue-and-white architecture.
Experience modern cafes and restaurants alongside traditional souks.
2. Sousse
Sousse, often called the “Pearl of the Sahel,” is a lively port city with a stunning mix of history and beach resorts. It is known for its medina, historical sites, and Mediterranean coastline.
Highlights:
Explore the Medina of Sousse with its souks and narrow alleyways.
Visit the Great Mosque of Sousse and the ancient Ribat fortress.
Relax on sandy beaches lined with resorts.
Discover artifacts at the Sousse Archaeological Museum.
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and seaside promenades.
3. Kairouan
Kairouan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered the spiritual heart of Tunisia. It is one of the holiest cities in Islam and boasts some of the most beautiful mosques and Islamic architecture in the world.
Highlights:
Visit the Great Mosque of Kairouan, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
Explore the Aghlabid Basins, impressive ancient water reservoirs.
Walk through the Medina of Kairouan, known for its carpets and crafts.
Discover the Mosque of the Three Doors with its carved façade.
Immerse yourself in centuries-old Islamic culture and heritage.
4. Hammamet
Hammamet is Tunisia’s top seaside resort town, famous for its beaches, palm trees, and vibrant nightlife. It has long been a retreat for artists, writers, and travelers seeking relaxation.
Highlights:
Relax on sandy beaches along the Mediterranean Sea.
Explore the Medina of Hammamet with its shops and cafés.
Visit Hammamet Fort for panoramic views of the coastline.
Discover modern resorts and luxury spas.
Enjoy water sports such as sailing, diving, and windsurfing.
5. Monastir
Monastir is a charming coastal city known for its historic fortresses and relaxed atmosphere. It combines rich Islamic history with a beautiful seaside setting.
Highlights:
Explore the Ribat of Monastir, one of the oldest and most impressive fortresses in Tunisia.
Visit the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, Tunisia’s first president.
Relax at golden beaches and modern resorts.
Stroll through the marina with its restaurants and cafés.
Discover local history at the Islamic Museum housed in the Ribat.
6. Tozeur
Tozeur, an oasis city on the edge of the Sahara Desert, is famous for its palm groves, desert landscapes, and traditional architecture. It is also known as a filming location for movies such as Star Wars.
Highlights:
Visit the historic Medina of Tozeur with its unique brickwork designs.
Explore Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides mountain oases.
Experience the vast Sahara Desert through camel rides or 4x4 tours.
Discover Ong Jemel, a desert filming location for Star Wars.
Stroll through lush date palm groves surrounding the city.
7. Mahdia
Mahdia is a quieter coastal city that offers both history and relaxation. With its fishing heritage, beautiful beaches, and old medina, it’s a hidden gem for travelers.
Highlights:
Explore the Medina of Mahdia with its traditional atmosphere.
Visit the Great Mosque of Mahdia and the Skifa el-Kahla gate.
Relax on pristine beaches with fewer crowds.
Discover the city’s fishing traditions at the port.
Visit the Mahdia Museum for artifacts and Islamic art.
8. Douz
Known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” Douz is a desert town that offers travelers the chance to experience the magic of Tunisia’s dunes. It is also famous for its cultural festivals.
Highlights:
Experience camel treks across the vast Sahara Desert.
Attend the annual International Festival of the Sahara.
Explore dunes ideal for dune bashing and desert camping.
Visit the lively town market filled with crafts and spices.
Discover traditional nomadic culture and hospitality.
9. El Kef
El Kef, located in northwestern Tunisia, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. It has Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, making it a culturally diverse destination.
Highlights:
Explore the Kasbah fortress overlooking the city.
Visit Roman ruins and Byzantine churches.
Wander through the old medina and traditional markets.
Discover Ottoman-era mosques and historic baths.
Enjoy scenic mountain landscapes surrounding the city.
10. Tataouine
Tataouine, located in southern Tunisia, is famous for its desert landscapes and unique ksars (fortified granaries). It has also gained fame as a filming location for the Star Wars movies.
Highlights:
Visit Ksar Ouled Soltane, a stunning example of Berber architecture.
Explore Chenini, a traditional Berber village built on a hill.
Discover the troglodyte houses of Matmata nearby.
Experience desert excursions and local hospitality.
Relive Star Wars filming sites for a unique adventure.
Tunisia is a country of contrasts, where ancient civilizations, Islamic heritage, Mediterranean beaches, and Sahara landscapes create a diverse and exciting travel experience. From the cultural richness of Tunis and Kairouan to the desert adventures of Douz and Tozeur, and the seaside charm of Hammamet and Sousse, every city tells its own story.
These 10 must-visit cities in Tunisia capture the essence of the country and provide travelers with a journey that is as enriching as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for history, relaxation, or adventure, Tunisia is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
