Looking for the best things to do in Tunis? From exploring the UNESCO-listed Medina to wandering the blue-and-white streets of Sidi Bou Said, this Tunis travel guide covers the top attractions, local food experiences and hidden gems to add to your itinerary.
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When I first booked my trip to Tunis, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. What I found was a city full of history, rooftop views, bustling markets and some of the friendliest people I’ve met while travelling. If you’re wondering whether Tunis is worth visiting, the answer is a very easy yes.
Perched on the shores of the Mediterranean, Tunis is a city where history isn’t confined to museums. It’s woven into daily life.
From the ancient legacy of Carthage to the vibrant energy of its UNESCO-listed Medina, Tunisia’s capital offers a rich blend of culture, heritage, cuisine and contemporary life that rewards curious travellers at every turn.
What surprised me most wasn’t just the beauty of Tunis, but the atmosphere. The warmth of the people, the intricate architecture, the scent of jasmine drifting through quiet streets and the feeling that around every corner there was another story waiting to be discovered.
It’s a city that invites you to slow down, look closer and embrace the unexpected.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or using Tunis as a gateway to explore more of Tunisia, these are the experiences that shouldn’t be missed.
Read Next: How to Travel More Without Quitting Your Job (The Ultimate Realistic Guide for 9-5 Workers)
Where to Stay in Tunis
Before we explore all the incredible things Tunis has to offer, let me ask – have you sorted your accommodation yet? No? Perfect. I’ve got just the place for you.
How does staying in a former embassy where royals and prime ministers once roamed sound?
Check out my article on the Royal Victoria Hotel Tunis here.
12 Things To Do in Tunis: Add These to Your Tunis Itinerary Now
1. Sunset Views and Dinner at Hotel Dar Jeld
Recommendations for a five-star hotel are a rare sight on this blog – so here’s an exception. There’s no better way to kick off your adventure than with a rooftop dinner at Hotel Dar Jeld. This spot is effortlessly elegant – twinkling city lights, a gentle breeze, and a menu bursting with flavours that’ll have you questioning why Tunisian food isn’t hyped more. Tunis at night is pure magic, and this is one of the best seats in the house.
Side note: Tunisians have a love affair with harissa – so be prepared for the spice.
2. A Sweet Start – Eat Makroudh
Tunisian sweets don’t mess around, and makroudh is proof. These golden, date-filled pastries are sticky, syrupy, and the perfect balance of nutty and sweet. You’ll find them in markets, bakeries, and tucked away in tiny alleyway stalls. Grab one (or five), let the honey glaze drip onto your fingers, and prepare for your taste buds to fall in love.
3. Sidi Bou Said – A Mediterranean Dream
Imagine Santorini had a Tunisian cousin – that’s Sidi Bou Said. This clifftop village is all white-washed walls, vibrant blue shutters, and cobbled streets leading to breathtaking sea views. It’s effortlessly photogenic, but it’s more than just a pretty face. Artists and writers have flocked here for years, drawn in by the light, the tranquillity, and the feeling that time slows down just a little.
Stroll through its winding streets, duck into hidden courtyards, and soak in views of the Mediterranean that’ll make you forget about everything else. And while you’re here, don’t miss bambalouni – a deep-fried, sugar-dusted doughnut that tastes even better when eaten by the sea.
4. Get to Know Tunis on a Free Walking Tour
Tunis isn’t a place to rush through – it’s a place to understand. And the best way to do that? A free walking tour. The ‘Unveiling Tunis’ tour on FreeTour.com takes you deep into the city’s history, from ancient foundations to colonial influences and modern-day life.
Your guide will walk you through the Medina’s tangled alleyways, past grand squares and forgotten courtyards, and into parts of the city you might otherwise overlook. And for the love of all things good – tip your guide. A little generosity goes a long way.
5. Get Lost in the Medina
The Medina isn’t just a market – it’s a living, breathing maze where every turn holds something new. Stalls spill over with pyramids of spices, glowing lanterns, and handcrafted rugs that look straight out of a fairytale. The air is thick with the scent of cumin and mint tea, and just when you think you’ve found your way, another twisting alley lures you deeper.
Side note: Did you know the Medina of Tunis has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. No? Now you do.
Forget maps. Just wander. The best finds are always the ones you aren’t looking for.
6. Al-Zaytuna Mosque – A Piece of Tunisian History
Right at the heart of the Medina, Al-Zaytuna Mosque has stood for over 1,300 years, watching Tunis evolve around it. It’s an architectural masterpiece, with intricate tilework, grand archways, and a courtyard that seems to hold whispers of centuries past.
Non-Muslims can’t enter the prayer hall, but you can admire the mosque from the outside – or better yet, find a rooftop café nearby and take in its beauty from above.
7. Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul – Where Cultures Collide
Tunis is a blend of influences, and nowhere is that clearer than at the Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul. Right in the city centre, this grand neo-Gothic structure stands in striking contrast to its surroundings, a reminder of Tunisia’s colonial past. Step inside, take in the stained glass and towering columns, and appreciate the quiet serenity within.
8. Strong Coffee at Café du Souk
If your energy is flagging, Tunisian coffee will sort you out. And Café du Souk is the place to get it. Tucked away in the Medina, this rooftop café serves coffee so strong it could wake the dead. Thick, rich, and unapologetically bold – it’s the kind of caffeine kick that fuels an entire day of exploring.
Find a seat on the rooftop, let the chaos of the city hum below, and take a moment to just be.
9. Cool Off with Tunisian Lemonade
The North African sun? Relentless. The cure? Ice-cold Tunisian lemonade. It’s tangy, sweet, and ridiculously refreshing – the kind of drink that instantly makes you feel like a new person. Grab one from a street vendor and let the citrusy goodness work its magic.
10. Visit the Bardo Museum
Even if you’re not usually a museum person (I’m often not), the Bardo Museum is one place that’s worth making an exception for.
Home to one of the world’s largest collections of Roman mosaics, it’s packed with fascinating artefacts that tell the story of Tunisia’s long and varied history. The mosaics are incredibly well preserved and some are so detailed it’s hard to believe they’re thousands of years old.
What surprised me most was how much there was to see beyond the mosaics. From ancient statues to Islamic art, it gives you a real sense of just how many civilisations have left their mark on Tunisia over the centuries.
If you’re planning a trip to Tunis, I’d recommend setting aside at least a couple of hours to explore it properly.
11. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Carthage
Just a short journey from the centre of Tunis, you’ll find one of the most famous archaeological sites in North Africa.
Once one of the most powerful cities in the ancient world, Carthage was the great rival of Rome before eventually being destroyed and rebuilt by the Romans. Today, the site is spread across several areas overlooking the Mediterranean, with ancient baths, villas, theatres and ruins waiting to be explored.
I’ll be honest, visiting Carthage felt a little surreal. It’s one of those places you’ve read about in history books without ever expecting to stand there yourself.
The views alone are worth the trip, especially when you realise you’re looking out over the same coastline that traders, sailors and armies would have crossed thousands of years ago.
If you’re already planning to visit Sidi Bou Said, it’s easy to combine both into the same day.
Getting Around Tunis
One of the things I liked most about Tunis was how easy it was to get around.
Many of the main things to do in Tunis city centre can be explored on foot, especially around the Medina and Avenue Habib Bourguiba. For longer journeys, taxis are plentiful and surprisingly affordable, although it’s always worth checking that the meter is running before setting off.
If you’re planning to visit Sidi Bou Said or Carthage, the TGM train is a simple and inexpensive option. The journey takes you along the coast and saves the hassle of dealing with traffic. We booked a taxi to take us there and another to bring us back and it was easy and cheap. Well recommended!
For airport transfers, taxis are usually the easiest choice, particularly if you’re arriving late or carrying luggage.
My advice? Mix walking with the occasional taxi and you’ll have no trouble seeing the best of things to do in Tunis without spending a fortune.
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Frequently Asked Questions – Things To Do in Tunis
Is Tunis worth visiting?
Absolutely. Tunis combines fascinating history, beautiful architecture, fantastic food and easy access to places like Sidi Bou Said and Carthage. While many travellers focus on Tunisia’s beach resorts, the capital offers a much more authentic glimpse into the country’s culture and daily life.
How many days do you need in Tunis?
Two to three days is enough to explore the main attractions in Tunis, including the Medina, Sidi Bou Said, Carthage and the Bardo Museum. If you enjoy slower travel, four days will give you more time to soak up the atmosphere.
Is Tunis safe for tourists?
I found Tunis to feel much safer than many people expect. As with any city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure and use common sense, but most visitors experience no issues while exploring the city.
What is the best time to visit Tunis?
Spring and autumn are generally the best times to visit Tunis, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine without the intense summer heat. April to June and September to November are particularly pleasant for sightseeing.
What are the best things to do in Tunis, Tunisia?
The best things to do in Tunis include exploring the UNESCO-listed Medina, visiting the ancient ruins of Carthage, wandering the blue-and-white streets of Sidi Bou Said, discovering the Bardo Museum and sampling traditional Tunisian cuisine. Together, these attractions showcase the rich history, culture and charm of Tunisia’s capital.
What are the best free things to do in Tunis?
Many of the best things to do in Tunis are completely free. You can wander through the Medina, admire the architecture of Avenue Habib Bourguiba, explore local markets and enjoy panoramic views in Sidi Bou Said. Walking through the city’s historic neighbourhoods is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Tunis.
Are two days enough to see the main things to do in Tunis?
Yes, two days is enough to experience many of the top things to do in Tunis, including the Medina, Carthage and Sidi Bou Said. However, three days will allow you to explore at a slower pace and discover more of the city’s hidden gems, museums and local food scene.
What are the most popular things to do in Tunis for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, the most popular things to do in Tunis include exploring the Medina, visiting Al-Zaytuna Mosque, taking a day trip to Carthage, enjoying the coastal atmosphere of Sidi Bou Said and learning about Tunisia’s history at the Bardo Museum.
What are the best things to do in Tunis in one day?
If you only have one day in Tunis, focus on exploring the Medina, visiting Avenue Habib Bourguiba and spending the afternoon in Sidi Bou Said. This itinerary offers a mix of history, culture and some of the most beautiful views in the city.
What are the best things to do in Tunis for culture lovers?
Tunis is packed with cultural attractions, from historic mosques and traditional souks to world-class museums and archaeological sites. Exploring the Medina, visiting the Bardo Museum and discovering the ancient city of Carthage are among the best things to do in Tunis for travellers interested in history and culture.
What are the best things to do near Tunis?
Some of the best things to do near Tunis include visiting the ancient ruins of Carthage, exploring the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said and relaxing on the beaches of La Marsa. All three can easily be visited as part of a day trip from the city centre.
Tunis – A City That Stays With You
Some destinations wow you in the moment. Tunis is the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
It’s found in the small moments as much as the landmark attractions. The scent of jasmine drifting through a sunlit street. The call to prayer echoing across the Medina. The conversations shared over mint tea. The feeling of stepping into a city where every corner reveals another layer of history, culture and daily life. For me, it was the fun interactions with the perfume and makroudh vendors in the Medina that has stayed with me, long after I’ve left!
And then there’s Sidi Bou Said, perched above the Mediterranean in shades of blue and white, where time seems to slow down and every view feels worthy of a postcard.
What makes Tunis so special isn’t just what you see, but how it makes you feel. Curious. Inspired. Connected.
So take your time. Wander without a plan. Lose yourself in the Medina, linger over long lunches and embrace the unexpected. Because the true magic of Tunis isn’t found on a checklist. It’s discovered in the moments in between.
And that’s exactly why it’s a city you’ll never forget.
Updated: 25 June 2026
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Tunis looks incredible – adding to the bucket list right now 😍
I would recommend. 100/10 😍😍