Cloaked in beauty and intrigue that has been developed surely over centuries and across cultures, the capital of Tunisia evokes wonder and excitement… and a healthy dose of fun!
Walk through here, and you’ll feel yourself deeply immersed in different societies; with its strategic location, this city has long hosted a mix of societies from North Africa, the Middle East, and even Ancient Rome!
And you’ll also get to see the city’s thriving modern scene, rooted in Islam, but infused with other religions and ideas.
So step into a world packed with new experiences, as we explore the coolest things to do in Tunis!
1 – Make your way around the Medina of Tunis
Vibrant in color and epic in scale, the Medina is a classic part of city life, an area where all of the capital’s finest elements come together in one place.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest and most distinguished neighborhoods in town, and it’s home to some truly dazzling points of interest as well!
Roam through the prayer hall of the magnificent Madrasa Slimania, built by ruler Ali Pasha in honor of his deceased son; or stroll under the arches of Bab Saadoun, one of the city’s many proud gates.
On the more regal side of things, take some time to explore the many lavish palaces in the area, including Dar Hussein, Dar Lasram, Dar Ben Abdallah Palace, and Kheireddine Palace.
And you can’t miss the commanding sight of Monument Place de la Kasbah, which swoops above the city and commemorates some of the country’s most significant moments.
If you’re visiting during Ramadan, you’ll also get the chance to enjoy the Tunis Medina Festival, where film screenings, live performances, and cultural events celebrate the very best of the region.
Don’t forget to stroll down Rue Sidi Brahim and Rue du Pacha for a taste of the city’s famous architecture!
2 – Find some amazing keepsakes in the Souks of Tunis
Another iconic part of the local experience involves sights and smells like no other… and a healthy dose of curiosity!
Souks – a traditional form of market throughout much of the Middle East and surrounding regions- are known for their lively atmosphere and wonderful offerings; and in Tunis, they are intricately woven into city life!
Souk El Attarine is one of the most famous (and certainly most fragrant) offerings, famed for its collection of perfumes.
And if you’re more interested in shiny objects, you can stop by Souk El Birka, which offers up all manner of fine jewelry.
Don’t forget Souk El Grana for blankets and outfits, or Souk Ech-Chaouachya, which specializes in traditional chachia hats.
Part of the fun is simply wandering from one market to the next, enjoying the smorgasbord of different goods that each have their own dedicated area.
3 – Pay a visit to Ez-Zitouna Mosque
It’s no surprise that the walking tours in Tunis are so spectacular; after all, this city is renowned for the diversity and loveliness of its architecture.
And this marvelous mosque, built in 698, is one such gem; as the oldest and largest complex in the city, it serves both as a thriving religious site and a monument to design.
The sense of scale and power is evident from the minute you step through the entrance – whichever one of the nine you choose to use!
As you walk through its gorgeous halls, you can almost feel the weight of knowledge, the imprints of thousands of past scholars that once flocked to the world-famous university that operated here.
Enjoy the gorgeous colors and designs throughout the area, winding between columns rescued from the legendary city of Carthage (see #5), and a lavish prayer hall.
It’s a true monument to the city in all of its eras!
4 – Hang around Victory Square
Plopped in between the medina and the rest of town, this lovely public area is more than just a nice spot for a stroll… it’s a great way to explore the conjunction of different neighborhoods!
Along with a lovely fountain that bubbles up playfully, it’s also home to Bab al-Bahr, a charming gate that serves as a portal between this older section of the city and the new, contemporary areas.
Pass back and forth and enjoy the strange sensation of slipping between eras!
5 – Explore the endless archeological wonders of Carthage
And if you want to really do some time-traveling, take a peek at a city that still bears traces of its glory days… thousands of years ago!
While it’s now part of the capital’s suburban network, Carthage was once a major player in early world affairs, a force of nature and the helm of an incredible empire that ruled over the region.
It got its start in the 9th century B.C., and quickly became a political and cultural powerhouse, ruling over much of the Mediterranean, later becoming a Roman settlement, then a Christian one.
The result is a fascinating, rewarding spot that has a true bounty for history nerds! Check out the sprawling Carthage Archaeological Site, where you can wander through the well-preserved ruins of the main trading hub in its different forms.
Then pop over to Byrsa Hill, home to the crumbled remnants of a citadel that once served as a military outpost, watching over the town below.
You’ll find more of the later influences at the Baths of Antoninus, a popular soaking spot near the sea, and in the artistic havens of the Roman Amphitheatre and the Roman Theatre of Carthage.
Then you can take in the more modern designs of the Acropolium of Carthage (relatively speaking, of course… it was built in the 1800s!), and the Punic Ports of Carthage, which oversaw the growth of all important naval powers of the empire.
And don’t miss Kobba Bent el Rey, which shows off the city’s more domestic side; tucked into the remains of one of the more upscale neighborhoods, this building is just like its fancy neighboring villas… except that it’s underground!
And if you want to explore this area in a particularly invigorating fashion, grab a helmet because this is one of the best places for bike tours in Tunis!
6 – Admire the Lake of Tunis
Understandably, the sea gets a lot of attention around here; but there’s another big body of water well worth a visit!
And this massive lagoon is also a huge part of the city’s growth; it used to serve as a route between Tunis and Carthage, and to this day, trains and cars pass over it on a regular basis.
Along with the effortless beauty of the lake itself, this area is another good spot to take in some amazing architecture… and you can even stay the night in one of the specimens!
Hotel du Lac certainly stands out from most of its neighbors, with a style less florid and more utilitarian.
In fact, this large, slightly surreal building is one of the region’s most famous examples of Brutalist design, and it’s an eye-catching part of the skyline with as many layers as its carefully stacked rooms.
And of course, the lake views are to die for!
7 – Take in the beauty of Ksar Said Palace
While this gorgeous building may be a youngster by local standards – it was built in the 1800s -, it’s as much a part of the city’s royal pedigree as any of the older spots.
It was built for the Beys family, a royal dynasty with a long history in the area, and served as their main seat of power for many years.
It’s now taken on yet another form, as the “Palace of Letters and Arts,” and it hosts all manner of cultural events.
Enjoy the ever-rotating series of exhibits, and soak up the mixed societal influences of the building’s design.
8 – See a different side to the city’s religious life at the Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul and St Olivia of Palermo
Originally built in the 1800s, this church is one of the oldest in town, and pays tribute to the diversity of the region, featuring a wonderful hodgepodge of neo-Byzantine designs and the revitalized versions of Moorish and Gothic styles.
In fact, the church is something of a relic; the country’s Roman Catholic population declined sharply after the independence movement in the 1950s, and while many of the houses of worship changed hands, the church has remained a fixture of religious life here.
It’s even home to the city’s Archdiocese!
9 – Amble around Sidi Bou Said
Just next door to the sea, Sidi Bou Said will catch your eye right away with its colorful demeanor; nearly every spot in this neighborhood is decorated in blue and white!
And the outdoor scenery perfectly pairs with these marvelous designs; the village is perfectly perched above the sea, making every view spectacular!
This lovely little town and its stylish scenes have also inspired generations of artists and creative types that have lived here over the years, both international and local.
Enjoy the lovely streets, then get a little creatively inspired yourself at Ennejma Ezzahra Palace, where you can admire a whole range of eclectic instruments – then hear some of them played at the many traditional concerts!
10 – Experiment and learn with reckless abandon at Tunis Science City
The vastness of the universe, the tiny details of the human body, the wonders of engineering, the power of dinosaurs… a trip to Tunis Science City will leave you pondering anything and everything!
The focus here is on interactive exhibits, where you can experience the different sciences in more vivid form than ever before; after all, it isn’t every day that you can mess around with aqueducts, retrace the evolution of life on Earth, or see cutting-edge research up close.
But if you want to really lose yourself in the power of the cosmos, you can also grab a seat in the planetarium, where a massive dome projects the beauty of twinkling stars and shifting planets all around you… no telescope required!
11 – Bring the whole family to Carthage Land
Time to see a different version of the past… one with way more thrill rides and waterslides!
As soon as you arrive at Carthage Land Les Berges du Lac, your whole group will find adventurous treats; a theme park, waterpark, playground, and immersive experience, all rolled into one lively package!
Take a scenic ride on the colorful Pirate Train, navigate the curves and dips of the waterslides, or get in some friendly competition on the bumper cars.
And of course, you’ll get to explore the long history of Tunisia itself…. with a few extra thrills and magical flourishes thrown in!
12 – Get a feel for the history of conflict at the National Military Museum
Of course, no nation with such long-standing influence is without its battles, which makes this museum one of the most compelling things to do in Tunis!
An astounding 23,000 artifacts fill the space, telling the long and winding story of the nation’s military endeavors… with nearly every major empire in history making a guest appearance!
Relive the pitched battles of Romans and ancient societies, admire the fleets that once sailed from Carthage, and take in the evolving weaponry that became part of the medieval conflicts.
Then hurtle forward in time to the decades of French occupation and the ensuing turmoil, and further still, to the rebellion of 2011.
From weapons to battle tactics, every gallery shows you a different side of this ever-evolving nation!
13 – Hang around Dougga
Back to Rome we go – or at least, Rome-adjacent!
Roughly 4,000 years ago, Dougga was a thriving Punic state capital; and while it’s a little quieter these days, its buildings are still in almost the same condition as it was back then!
This site is a true dream for archaeology nerds; mausoleums, public baths, theaters, and even simple family homes are all still standing.
As you wind between them, you can easily get a sense of how the town worked back in the days when Phonecians, Romans, Libyans, and countless others worked and lived on these streets.
14 – Explore Dar Othman
At once luxurious and casual, this 16th-century charmer is a great example of how even the most glamorous spaces evolved over time to suit the needs of the city.
While the palace served as home to many of the region’s popular politicians, it was also a storage house for army supplies, keeping the local soldiers well-fed.
Amble through the lovely courtyard, and take in the lovely architectural details – you’ll get to see the town’s unique evolution in greater depth!
15 – Take in the wonders of the city’s many other mosques
The capital’s mosques aren’t just places of worship; they’re stunning tributes to art and culture, where the reverence of past societies is brought vividly to life.
And with each spot featuring its own distinct story and aesthetic, there’s nothing quite like an extensive tour to get a feel for these spots!
There’s the Mosque of Sidi Mahrez, an Ottoman-style beauty right in the midst of the medina; or Kasbah Mosque, a Moroccan-inspired beauty that has served the city since the 1200s.
Get a little taste of Turkey at Hammouda Pacha Mosque, built in the 17th century using many of the nearby nation’s design principles; or gaze up at the magnificent minaret of Saheb Ettabaâ Mosque, which was the last major house of worship built before the French occupied the country.
16 – Venture into the past at Dar El Annabi
Another colorful stunner from Sidi Bou Said (see #9), this lovely home lets you get up close and personal with the traditions of local domestic life.
It was created in the 1700s, then repurposed in the 1900s as a vacation home; but over the years and through various owners, it has maintained its internal and external delights, offering a dash of classic Islamic designs and some wonderful interior areas to roam around.
Stroll through a charming garden, explore the prayer room and lounge areas, and take a look at the personal rooms where various families lived out their days.
It’s a wonderfully intimate way to get to know the local culture!
17 – Make some time for Monastir
Holding the legacies of the past and present in equal measure, Monastir has been the setting of numerous conflicts… and even a movie or two!
Look up at the Ribat of Monastir, a fortress that has watched over the town since the 700s; then move on to the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, where the first president of Tunisia is interred.
Along the way, you’ll also get to enjoy great cuisine, beautiful mosques, and an unforgettable view of the sea from the marina; and sharp-eyed comedy fans might recognize some areas that were used to film the classic comedy Monty Python’s Life Of Brian!
18 – Take some time to enjoy Belvedere Park
Bike paths and tigers and trees… oh my!
This is one of the city’s most popular parks, with its relaxing atmosphere that beckons locals and travelers to unwind and soak up nature in all of its forms.
Stop by the zoo to convene with some cool creatures, from camels and monkeys to wild cats and emus!
Then you can stretch your legs on the bike trails and walking paths, and enjoy the wonderful palm and olive trees forming a pleasant backdrop.
19 – Unleash your inner child at the nearby amusement parks
The fun just keeps going as you hit up these various fun zones, where adrenaline and kiddie entertainment both top the bill!
If you’ve got some younger travelers in your group, stop by KatKout, a lovely little park packed with fun kiddie rides.
Or pop over to Soukra Park, where carousels, little airplanes, and gondola rides let you enjoy the whole wide range of fun.
And at Dah Dah Happy Land Entertainment Park, you can play some arcade games, ride the steel waves of a roller coaster, or watch some live shows… the possibilities are endless!
20 – Explore the famous theater of El Jem
It’s a little town with a massive cultural venue… take a step back in time as you journey to El Jem!
The village itself, founded by the Romans, is a quaint little place; but its amphitheater has been a big draw for millennia!
It was the largest spot of its kind in North Africa, able to host 35,000 patrons of the arts; in its heyday, it was one of the best places in the region to enjoy some of the classic entertainment of the day – think chariot races and live gladiatorial combat!
Many tours also make a pit stop in Kairouan, a town of mosques and mausoleums that was a major part of the Aghlabid Dynasty.
21 – Check out the endless offerings of the Carthage National Museum
As wonderful as all of the ancient sites are, there’s something moving about getting some greater academic context for those bygone eras – and this museum certainly delivers!
Much of the collection comes from excavations of the namesake site in the 1970s, but it also includes pieces that have been gathered since opening day in 1875, resulting in an amazing array of art, religious pieces, and items from the golden ages of Roman and Punic rule.
A marble sarcophagus, mosaics, masks, and ceremonial pieces are just some of the remarkable pieces you’ll find here, telling the winding story of cultures as they developed – not just on a logistical level, but a creative one.
22 – Take a leisurely stroll through Tunis Nippon Garden
How about a brief detour out of Tunisia… and into Japan?
This splendid complex is filled with wonderful plants that show off all of the color and variety nature can offer, and the way that the whole area is structured is a triumph in its own right!
It was designed in the style of Japanese green spaces, with all of the carefully ordered beauty that those spaces are famous for.
When you’re here, the botanical and the design all merge into one!
23 – Take a trip to Bulla Regia
When you get to Bulla Regia, look down… the floor beneath your feet just might contain some authentic Roman mosaics!
A sister site to Dougga (see #13), this is one of the best spots in the country to explore the remains of the once-mighty empire, as well as the many influences from the Berber and Punic eras.
Everywhere you turn, you’ll find compelling ruins with these mixed cultures etched into their very framework, all of the different colonies overlapping in an intriguing combination.
24 – Learn more about the sea (and how to protect it) at the National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies Museum
There’s more to the story of the sea here than just epic ships and naval battles!
And while the stories of fisheries and industrial machines might not seem very exciting, the National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies Museum makes the whole process come to life like never before!
From whale skeletons to live fish, you can explore every part of the briny blue in one building; and you’ll even get to explore some of the cutting-edge conservation research taking place in the sea next door!
25 – Relax in Marsa Corniche
Another one of the vibrantly-colored neighborhoods in town, this area isn’t just a great beach destination; it’s also a shopping, dining, and strolling spot!
When you’re not enjoying the rich breezes off of the Mediterranean, you can chow down at some of the little cafes, then browse cheerfully through fashionable clothing, souvenirs, and even some lovely antiques.
Then it’s time to catch some sun (and maybe some waves) at Marsa Beach or explore Kobbet El Haoua, a beautiful community space known for its traditional designs.
26 – See some early engineering marvels in Zaghouan
It’s not the town that stands out in this case… it’s the water!
Zaghouan played a huge role in the region and its progress; this magnificent aqueduct helped convey fresh water to the surrounding towns, courtesy of a natural spring flowing almost magically from a massive rock.
An amazing feat of engineering, it was also one of the first projects of its kind in North Africa and stretched roughly 161 kilometers (100 miles) in its heyday.
It even ran fresh water all the way to Carthage!
You can also check out nearby Thuburbo Majus, where ancient homes and temples devoted to Roman gods show off all the vibrant aspects of a once-thriving town.
27 – Sample the hip side of things in Ville Nouvelle (New Town)
As wonderful as the capital’s historic spots are, the more contemporary section of town is brimming with its own fun and style!
You can get a great feel for it with an amble down Avenue Habib Bourguiba, one of the city’s biggest and most important streets, filled with shops and cafes where you can stop and spend some time.
And speaking of time, you’d be remiss not to take a look at the Clocktower, an elegant piece that commemorates the ascension of prominent politician Ben Ali to the presidency.
The latticed design gives it an extra glamor that goes far beyond its normal function and makes it a unique public art piece.
28 – Take in the history of La Goulette (Tunis Port)
From a thriving naval post to a busy tourist attraction and everything in between, this is one of the main ports in the city – and a great little adventure! Back in the 1500s, it was mostly a military stronghold, topped by a magnificent fortress.
But by the 1800s, it was mostly a holiday destination, and a thriving hub for some of the city’s many immigrant populations, including large groups from Italy and Malta.
These days, the port is a little more industrial, but also a place of great interest; you can watch the past seamlessly meet the present, as surely as the boats passing by.
29 – Enjoy the bounty of the city’s various food tours
As vibrant as the buildings and the ruins, the food tours in Tunis bring you a sweet side of the city… and a savory one, too!
The street food scene here is phenomenal, with endless stalls full of little vendors that create their own mouth-watering twists on classic cuisine.
But believe it or not, some of the best feasts come out when the sun goes down!
In the coolness of the evening, you can explore the brightly lit restaurants and small stands that provide some of the greatest meals in town, with an irresistible fusion of North African and Mediterranean flavors offering a delicious spin on the local nightlife!
30 – Go skating (and try nearly everything else) at Ksar Essaada
Ready for a novelty? How about a bit of ice skating in the middle of the desert?
At this family-friendly attraction, kids can unleash their energy in an endless variety of methods: climbing on the jungle gym, swinging, sliding, and so on.
And when they’re ready for more action, you can all strap on some skates and enjoy the wonders of the ice rink, where it’s always winter… and always exciting!
31 – Embrace the artistic background of Nabeul
This is one city that takes “down to earth” to the next level!
For centuries, Nabeul has been known for one thing: pottery.
And it’s an art that has certainly taken the city by storm, from the brilliant works being churned out in traditional studios to a massive, decorative piece that sits right in the middle of town.
These tours will also give you a chance to discover Hammamet, a former Middle Ages bastion that is now a lovely little spot with great coffee, charming old buildings, and a character all its own.
32 – Make a full experience out of eating at the best restaurants
When you’re ready to enjoy a longer, more leisurely dining experience, the city’s eateries will give your taste buds some unforgettable adventures!
Stop by Dar El Jeld for some lovely traditional dishes and great views of the medina area, or Omek Sanafa if you want some great regional specialties, like the decadent Mezza plate, with its huge pile of seafood and meats.
Add some lovely pastries to your meal at Frederic Cassel, or indulge in some more familiar comforts at IT, which specializes in pizzas and pasta.
And if you want incomparable views and meals to match, grab a seat at The Cliff, where you can enjoy some of the freshest seafood and the best scenery in town!
33 – Take a look around Uthina Archaeological Site
This is another set of ruins with a lot to offer… and a nice little bit of mystery thrown in!
While not much is known about this town, the buildings that are left behind offer a nice glimpse into its more spectacular side.
Check out the public baths and the aqueduct that helped fill them, then mosey over to the amphitheater, which once held 16,000 audience members.
You can even explore the chambers where combatants used to wait for battle! Then wrap it all up with a look at the Capitole, which once helmed the city’s political scene.
34 – Try out some new skills with a couple of cooking classes
Just like the rest of the city’s bountiful culinary experiences, the cooking classes in Tunis bring the social and taste-based elements of food together in one.
You’ll get to inject your own interests into every part of the process, from choosing which dishes to cook to selecting the ingredients and preparing the whole delicious display.
And then you get to eat the fruits of your labor… a truly fitting reward!
35 – Browse through Municipal Market
The shopping here is world-class, and even a trip to pick up some fresh fruits and veggies can turn into an exciting outing!
And there’s no better place to start than Marche Central de Tunis (Tunis Central Market), which has been keeping the city well-stocked in all manner of meals and delicacies since 1891.
The sprawling area is split into various sections, offering everything from local crops and fish to flowers, cheeses, and olives.
Whether you’re buying up ingredients for your next meal or just enjoying the atmosphere, it’s one of the coolest things to do in Tunis!
36 – Explore a new art form or five at City of Culture
Built to commemorate the anniversary of the country’s independence, this massive space is a real mecca of events, from art exhibitions to opera and concerts.
60,000 square meters of entertainment from all over the spectrum awaits you, forever offering fresh surprises and new ways of engaging with the world.
Watch movies or live theater, see the latest masterpieces in the various galleries, or delve into some of the more unique art forms, such as a museum devoted entirely to puppets!
And don’t miss the House of the Novel and the House of Poetry, which provide boundless resources for the city’s literary scene.
37 – Find all of the scenic joys of Cap Bon
Seascapes, hot springs, and a wonderful artsy vibe… there’s nothing quite like a trip to Cap Bon.
This gorgeous peninsula is certainly one of the area’s most lovely and fertile spots; the sight of vineyards and the aroma of citrus trees will surround you as you journey from one lovely little town to the next, including regional gems like Nabeul (see #31).
And in the midst of your sightseeing, you can relax those tired legs with a soak in the Natural hot springs of Korbous, a local hotspot said to have healing properties.
Rest your feet in the rejuvenating waters, just as travelers have done for thousands of years!
38 – Support the arts at Municipal Theatre
For over 120 years, this mighty venue has brought the people of the city in with its endless lineup of programs, starring some of the best artists in the country!
Step through the doors of this wonderful white monument, and you’ll find concerts, ballet, opera, and all sorts of theatrical productions filling the stage, making a wonderful entryway into the city’s vibrant art scene.
No matter what draws you to this Art Nouveau treasure, you can be sure of a jaw-dropping display!
How to get to Tunis?
You’ll have an easy time getting started on your adventure with the help of airport transfers, which combine speed and convenience to spare you the headache of unfamiliar transit.
Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
Where to stay in Tunis?
In the welcoming realms of Dar El Jeld Hotel and Spa, you can enjoy a bit of pampering in the sauna or at the beauty parlor, then enjoy all of the nearby mosques and museums… truly the best of both worlds!
And at Le Corail Suites Hotel, you’ll have the Lake of Tunis and the Tunisia Mall right outside, and some wonderful dining and relaxation options inside.
Acropole Tunis provides a wonderfully stylish design to enjoy, and a restaurant filled with delicious traditional meals to add that extra sightseeing energy.
And Hotel Carlton provides Art Nouveau vibes in the midst of contemporary cool; the main part of the medina is right next door!
Golf Royal Hotel will give you a welcoming domicile, from breakfast in the cafe to a nightcap at the bar…. And everywhere in between!
Visiting Tunis on a budget?
Take it easy on your wallet and indulge your eyes and mind with the amazing free walking tours in Tunis!
Take in the old and new parts of the city, the magnificent buildings, and the smaller streets; wind through the ancient mysteries of Carthage, or take in the endless wonders of the medina.
Along the way, you’ll get some amazing commentary from your guide, a local with a deep love for and understanding of the city’s nuances.
Just remember to bring cash to tip them at the end!
Where to go next?
For all the joy the city brings, you’ve got to try out the world around it as well… from other cities to whole ecosystems!
There are some excellent multi-day trips from Tunis, making it easier than ever to explore the wonders of the surrounding country.
Rural towns, ancient ruins, elegant mosques, and even some of the sets from the Star Wars series await you on your journey; and it’s the perfect way to get to know this beautiful, intriguing nation.
And of course, no trip would be complete without sampling some of the Sahara Desert tours from Tunis, which will immerse you in the unique ecology of one of the world’s largest dry areas.
Vast sand dunes, rippling oases, fascinating villages, and starry nights in traditional Berber camps – the wonders never end when you’re exploring this magnificent corner of the globe.
You might even get to ride some camels along the way!
Final thoughts
A world unto itself that’s also intimately connected to the many cultures around it, this is a capital that gives as much to its visitors as it does to the people that call it home.
So when you’re diving into the different things to do in Tunis, be sure to take some time to slow down and savor it all; because as people have been discovering for thousands of years, there’s no place quite like it!