A First Timer’s Guide to Tunisia
In this first timer’s guide to Tunisia, we share the main tourist attractions and places of interest to explore around the country. Use this short guide to help you plan the popular places and must visit sites around the country.
Thinking about your first trip to Tunisia? It can feel like trying to solve a beautiful puzzle. If you love to visit exotic destinations of ancient history, vast golden deserts, charming seaside towns, and vibrant markets, Tunisia is safe and accessible without all the tourist crowds visiting Northern Africa. With so much to offer, the biggest question is often, where do you even begin? We start out our Journey by traveling to the capital city of Tunis where many attractions and transportation to the various sites can be arranged. Or you can easily take part in day trips or group tours to explore many of these historic and fascinating sites.
Forget trying to see everything at once. A great first visit is about experiencing the different flavors of the country. It is about understanding its story. This guide is your starting point. It is a curated list of places that together create a full, unforgettable introduction to Tunisia.
A First Timer’s Guide to Tunisia: 6 Places to Start Your Adventure
Why visit Tunisia now?
Now is an ideal time to visit Tunisia, a country that offers a blend of North African charm, Mediterranean beauty, and deep history without the heavy tourist crowds. From the ancient ruins of Carthage and the medinas of Tunis and Sousse to the endless dunes of the Sahara and the turquoise waters of Djerba, Tunisia delivers an experience that feels both timeless and refreshingly authentic. With improved infrastructure, warm hospitality, and affordable travel costs, it’s a destination where culture, cuisine, and adventure come together naturally. Plan your trip to Tunisia now and discover a country that continues to surprise and inspire every traveler.
How to get to the capital city of Tunis
How to Get to the Capital City of Tunis
- By Air:
- The main gateway is Tunis–Carthage International Airport (TUN), located about 8 km from the city center.
- It receives direct international flights from major European cities, North Africa, and the Middle East.
- Local taxis and shuttle buses connect the airport to downtown Tunis.
- By Train:
- National railway services operated by SNCFT link Tunis with major cities like Sousse, Sfax, and Gabès.
- The main station is Gare de Tunis-Ville, conveniently located near the city center.
- By Bus:
- Intercity buses and shared minibuses (louages) operate between Tunis and other Tunisian towns.
- The primary bus terminals include Bab Alioua and Bab Saadoun.
- By Car:
- Major highways connect Tunis with coastal and southern regions.
- Driving offers flexibility, though traffic in central Tunis can be heavy during rush hours.
- By Sea:
- Ferry routes link Tunis (via the port of La Goulette) with cities like Marseille, Genoa, and Palermo.
- The port is about 10 km from the city center and easily accessible by taxi or local train.
Top 6 places to explore around Tunisia
Here are the recommended tourist activities and sites to explore around Tunisia below
1. The Tunis Medina: A Living Labyrinth of Culture
Before you go anywhere else, you have to experience the Tunis Medina. This is not a sterile museum. It is the living, breathing heart of the capital. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its narrow alleyways are packed with centuries of history. You will find bustling souks (markets) selling everything from leather goods to fragrant spices, hidden courtyards, and the grand Zaytuna Mosque at its core.
Why it’s perfect for a first timer: It’s an immediate, immersive dive into Tunisian culture. You learn to navigate, to haggle with a smile, and to appreciate the details.
A small tip: Don’t be afraid to get a little lost. When you need a break, find a rooftop café. Ordering a mint tea while looking over the cityscape is a classic Tunis experience that gives you a new perspective.
2. Carthage and Sidi Bou Said: History with a View
Just a short train ride from Tunis, these two spots are neighbors but offer very different experiences. Start in Carthage to walk through the ruins of a once mighty empire. While the sites are spread out, the scale of the Antonine Baths and the history of the Punic Ports are truly impressive.
After your history lesson, head to Sidi Bou Said. This cliffside village is famous for its stunning blue and white architecture. The cobblestone streets, overflowing flower pots, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea make it one of the most picturesque places in the country.
Why they’re perfect for a first timer: This combination gives you a full day of world class history followed by pure relaxation and beauty.
A small tip: A single ticket covers entry to multiple Carthage ruins, so plan to spend at least half a day exploring. In Sidi Bou Said, wander away from the main street to find quieter alleys.
3. El Jem: The Roman Empire’s Grand Statement
You might have seen pictures of the Colosseum in Rome, but Tunisia’s amphitheater at El Jem is arguably more impressive. It is one of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, and it is simply enormous. You can walk through the tiered seating where 35,000 spectators once sat, and then descend into the underground chambers where gladiators and animals awaited their fate.
Why it’s perfect for a first timer: It is a powerful, tangible link to Tunisia’s deep Roman history and an awe-inspiring piece of architecture.
A small tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and the largest tour groups. This allows you to explore the space with a bit more tranquility.
For historical tours, having knowledgeable guides to show you around and share the hidden stories is strongly recommended, as it helps you truly understand the history instead of just sightseeing. WildyNess, a trusted Tunisian tour operator, can organize this and all other details, letting you enjoy an authentic Tunisia stress-free.
4. Sousse: The Perfect Coastal Blend
Sousse offers the best of both worlds: a fascinating, well-preserved medina and a relaxed, sunny beach town. Its medina feels more manageable than the one in Tunis, but is just as historic. Make sure to visit the Ribat, an ancient fortress with incredible views from its watchtower, and the Sousse Archaeological Museum, which houses a stunning collection of mosaics.
Why it’s perfect for a first timer: It shows you how history and modern coastal life exist side by side in Tunisia. It is also a great, central base for exploring other coastal towns.
A small tip: Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at one of the restaurants near the port for an authentic taste of the city.
5. Tozeur: Your Oasis in the Desert
Tozeur is the main hub of southern Tunisia and the gateway to some of the country’s most unique landscapes. The city itself is known for its distinctive yellow brick architecture. From here, you can easily arrange a 4×4 trip to the nearby mountain oasis of Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides. These spots are genuinely magical, with waterfalls and green palm groves appearing suddenly in the middle of the rocky, arid mountains.
Why it’s perfect for a first timer: It’s your introduction to the Sahara and shows you that the desert is more than just sand dunes. It is a landscape full of surprises.
A small tip: Many of the original Star Wars filming locations, like Mos Espa, are also accessible from Tozeur. Even if you are not a fan, the desert scenery is spectacular.
6. A Night in the Sahara from Douz
While Tozeur shows you the rocky side of the desert, Douz is where you find the classic rolling sand dunes of the Sahara. Known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” this is the place to arrange an unforgettable desert experience. Whether it is a short camel ride at sunset or an overnight stay in a traditional Berber camp with locals, this is a must-do.
Why it’s perfect for a first timer: It is pure adventure. Watching the sunset over the dunes and seeing a sky full of stars with no light pollution is an experience that will stay with you long after you have returned home.
A small tip: The experience is the main attraction here. Focus on finding a reputable tour operator like WildyNess that offers a comfortable and authentic desert camp stay.
Tunisia tells a rich, diverse story. With these six places, you get to hear the most important chapters on your first visit. You will leave with a balanced view of the country and, most likely, a strong desire to come back and explore the rest.
Is Tunisa a safe country to visit?
Tunisia is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, especially in popular areas like Tunis, Sidi Bou Said, Carthage, Hammamet, and the coastal resorts. The country has a visible security presence, particularly around tourist zones and historical sites. However, travelers should stay informed about regional developments and avoid remote areas near the borders with Libya and Algeria, where occasional unrest can occur. For first-time visitors, it’s wise to dress modestly out of respect for local customs, keep an eye on belongings in crowded markets, and use registered taxis or trusted transport apps. Learning a few basic Arabic or French phrases can go a long way in making local interactions friendlier. Always check travel advisories before your trip and register with your embassy if staying for an extended period.
Check out this post on updated information on travel safety to visiting Tunisia and what to expect.
Conclusion to visiting Tunisia in this first timer’s guide
Visiting Tunisia offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that surprises many first-time travelers. From ancient Roman ruins and desert landscapes to colorful souks and Mediterranean beaches, the country delivers far more than expected. It’s a destination where you can wander centuries-old medinas in the morning and enjoy seaside dining by sunset. With its warm hospitality, affordable travel costs, and well-connected transport, Tunisia makes for an excellent introduction to North Africa. So, if you’re ready to explore somewhere new and authentic, start planning your Tunisian adventure now—this fascinating country is waiting to be discovered.
Guest post bio
Bayrem is a Tunisian digital marketer with a passion for exploring new places, cultures, and cuisines. He turns his love for discovery into articles that help readers experience each destination to the fullest.