Taking this into account, few people are likely to be aware of another area of the country named Tabarka. This completely contrasts the above three locations, with this being a small, traditional town that is a favourite amongst the Tunisian locals.

It does share several similarities with some of the popular locations, with the white sandy beaches probably being the most obvious. However, in general it is a very cultural town that will only appeal to the local people. The fact that it has its own fort which has not been opened to the public also highlights just how the authorities have attempted to keep this region away from the hordes of tourists that visit Tunisia every year.

Bearing the above in mind, Tabarka is certainly a very interesting location in the country. We’ll now take a look at some of the premier attractions in the town and the reasons why it has proved so popular with the Tunisians.

Music Festivals

Considering the fact that Tabarka has been billed up as a traditional town, the last thing you will expect to hear is that its music scene is thriving. There are countless music festivals held in the town and interestingly, they appeal to a wide audience of people. For example, one month there may be several jazz festivals, while another you might be greeted by Rai beats. Nevertheless, while festivals will appeal to the tourists, it is debatable on whether or not they are commercial enough to attract foreigners.

Traditional high streets

When one first arrives in Tabarka it will be clear from the outset that this is an under-developed zone. Again, this reinforces the fact that it has simply not been designed for tourists, with the cobbled pavements and backstreet cafes all emphasising this feel. Many of the shops are family owned and a lot of Tunisians are happy to circulate around the old-fashioned streets, taking in the smell of shisha as they soak in their national atmosphere.

Coastal Activities

With Tabarka being situated so close to the beaches, it won’t be a surprise to see that many visitors take advantage of the coast. Many will go out snorkelling and scuba diving, with locals being able to point out the best places for fish and shipwrecks. Again, this is not your typical seaside holiday resort, but the locals do take pride in their waters and it can be possible to explore them even if you are an ‘outsider’.

Kroumirie Mountains

Another activity that focuses on the local environment is a trip to the Kroumirie Mountains. The beauty of this area is second to none and visitors will be blessed with countless elements of nature, whether it is chestnut trees, cork oaks or the dry rivers. This is classed as one of the most relaxing areas of Tabarka and many old people make it their priority to regularly visit the region just to rest. Additionally, it can attract visitors from afar during the winter period, with the snow making the surroundings absolutely picturesque.

A summary on Tabarka travel

In comparison to a lot of places in Tunisia, Tabarka is unquestionably one of the towns that places less emphasis on the tourist trade. This is clear from the outset, with the streets retaining no commercial feel and instead relying on the traditional Tunisian features.

However, while this article may have indicated that Tabarka is completely against tourists, this isn’t the case at all and some do decide to venture over there. The likes of the Kroumirie Mountains can make an excellent day trip while some locals can be happy to show you around the intriguing waters should you strike lucky.

The entire town is simply beautiful, with flowers draped from almost every wall and doorway, and beautiful flowing vines hanging throughout the entire area. Sidi Bou Said is so beautiful, in fact, that many artists have taken up residence here.The town is also said to have inspired famous artist Paul Klee, and famous writer Andre Gide.

Sidi Bou Said – Tunisia

Sidi Bou Said is an excellent “base of operations” for your trip to Tunisia. Since it is located very close to Tunis, there is plenty of things to do in and around the town. The streets of Sidi Bou Said, most of which are quaint cobbled streets, are lined for the most part with souvenir shops, cafe’s, and art shops. The entire town has an intense feel of artistry and craftsmanship, and the locals are very proud of their town, and don’t hesitate to show it off.
Much of the town is quiet, and inhabited mostly by locals going about their daily business. Other areas are aimed more towards tourists. If you want to stay in one of Tunisia’s nicest hotels, be sure to visit Dar Said in Sidi Bou Said. The hotel itself is amazing, rivaling popular Vegas and Hawaii hotels. And surrounding the hotel is an expensive district of quality restaurants and shops. Excellent views exist almost everywhere in Sidi Bou Said, and you’ll find no shortage of activities to try.

Sidi Bou Said – Tunisia

During the day, Sidi Bou Said is a thriving metropolis, with tourists everywhere. It is a common stop for tour groups, most of which originate in the capital city of Tunis. At night, the town quiets down a lot, and is very relaxing. There are tons of things to do in and around Sidi Bou Said. Exploring the Roman Ruins of Carthage should be high up on your list of activities, as should visiting the Souk, which is the local market. Vendors of all shapes and sizes gather daily to sell at the Souk, and you can find some truly amazing and unique items here.
While you can drive in Sidi Bou Said, much of the streets are crowded both with other cars, and pedestrians. The best way to see the sights, and truly let everything sink in, is to walk around the city. Or, you can find a vendor who rents out bicycles or mopeds, and travel around like that. If you simply drive through the town, you will miss most of the sites that people come to Sidi Bou Said to see.

Also, before you leave, be sure to explore the outskirts of the town. These areas have much less tourists, and are therefore much cheaper. Plus, many areas are literally on the edge of a cliff, which makes for some amazing views of the Bay of Tunis and the Mediterranean Sea.

Beach – Hammamet

One of the first things that you will notice in Hammamet is that the entire town is mixed into a huge garden. Oranges, lemons and other citrus trees grow here, as well as olive groves. There is so much plant life in Hammamet that many people call it the “garden resort”. Hammamet is an incredibly relaxing environment, with its white sandy beaches and quiet atmosphere. There are an estimated 20,000-70,000 people living in Hammamet at any given time.

The number obviously fluctuates a lot with the seasons, due to the increased number of tourists visiting in the summer months.

One of the main attractions of Hammamet, besides the beautiful gardens, is the amazing sandy beaches. White sand covers the entire coast, meeting up with crystal clear blue water. The water is surprisingly clean, and many tourists travel to Hammamet just to enjoy the beach and the water sports available there. Festivals and small events are often held on the beaches as well, often lasting until late in the evening. There are areas of Hammamet that are more family-oriented and quiet, and there are areas that are much more wild and party-driven. Truly, no matter what kind of vacation you are seeking, you will enjoy a trip to Hammamet.

Yasmine Hammamet

Before you begin your travels, you should reference a thorough Hammamet travel guide. Knowing what you’re going to do before you get there can save you a lot of time and money. If you just show up and don’t know anything about the Tunisian culture, you’ll be lost in the abyss. Although Hammamet does its best to appeal to tourists, it is not ashamed of its culture, which you will see almost everywhere, in the form of bronze statues, beautiful gardens, archeological sites, pottery, and museums. The Gafsa museum is a must-see, as is the Bardo museum, which specializes in the Islamic faith and culture.
All throughout the town of Hammamet, you will smell the enticing aroma of Jasmine. The locals are borderline obsessed with this plant, and it grows almost everywhere. There is a tourist resort called Yasmine Hammamet, and most of its grounds are covered in Jasmine. All throughout the area, souvenirs made of Jasmine can be purchased and brought home, to help capture some of the spirit of Hammamet. Before you leave, be sure to check out The Griba Synagogue, which is estimated to have been built in the 6th century BC.

Kairouan is the fourth most holy city of the Muslim faith and as such a major destination for pilgrimage, The history and Mosques in the city and the long history of Kairouan have seen it become a UNESCO World Heritage site. Funded by Arabs in around 670 AD the city quickly became a centre of religious teaching attracting muslims from around the world for Quranic and Islamic learning.

Pilgrimage

People still come from around the muslim world on pilgrimage to Kairouan and visit its Mosques as well as Islamic schools that are open to visitors. A pilgrimage to Kairouan is meant to be equivalent to a seventh of a pilgrimage to Mecca.

If you are a muslim or have an interest is Islamic studies and history then Kairouan will be a fascinating place for you to visit in every way. If you have a general interest in history, culture or Architecture though thereis still an awful lot to take in here.

Transport

There is no train to Kairouan and no International airport, you can though easily get here by Bus or Louage, shared long distance taxis, both will run from major cities but from some smaller towns and cities a Louage may be a better option.

What to See

The Medina

Kairouan is best explored on foot and as with many Tunisian cities it is the Medina, the old city, that is where almost all sites of interest to tourists can be found though the Medina itself is beautiful with white washed walls and a myriad of alleys and arches to explore, as featured in Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark. Bus and Louage stations are just to the North West of the Medina meaning you can start exploring straight away.

The Great Mosque

You must visit the Great Mosque which makes the visit to Kairouan worthwhile on its own, non muslims are not admitted to the prayer hall but you can still take in the architecture on the outside and through the doors to the prayer hall that are left open.

The Great mosue is surrounded by the Medina and many small stores, some of these actually have the best views and you may be invited in with the hope you will buy something on the way out: if you do buy something small it may still be good value.

Mosquee Sidi Okba, Kairouan, Tunisia

The Mosque of the Three Doors

The Mosque of the Three Doors is Kairouan’s other famous mosque though the interior is inaccessible to tourists the facae is well worth viewing for its classic Arabian design.

History

The original Phoenician colony sprung up around 3000 years ago in the 1^st millennium BC, the city prospered and became rich, influential and importantly an independent republic with influence over a surrounding area: covering much of the coast of North Africa, Southern Spain, Sardinia, Corsica and parts of Scilly by the 3^rd century BC.

The Punic Wars

This prosperity led to rivalry between Carthage and other influential city states on the Mediterranean, not least Rome. The Punic wars saw the advantage sway between Rome and Carthage but with Hannibal’s forces defeated at the battle of Zama during the second Punic War Carthage was on the back foot. When the third Punic war began with a Roman invasion the Carthaginians were unable to defend for long against Rome’s stronger forces and they were defeated and the city of Carthage destroyed.

Roman and later Carthage

Carthage was rebuilt in the first century AD though and became an important Roman city and then a important city under other rulers including the Vandals whose capital it was. A further destruction came in AD 698 under Muslim Conquest and after this Carthage became far less important with Tunis becoming the major influential city in the region.  Carthage is now a part of the greater metropolitan area of Tunis and across the Tunis lake from central Tunis.

What to see

Tourism is important to Carthage and access and facilities for tourists are good. Sites are generally well maintained and not encroached upon by urban development; tickets giving access to a number of sites are best value.

The Ruins at Antonine Baths at the archaeological site, Carthage, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tunisia

Roman Sites

Roman sites include the Antonin baths, the largest Roman baths outside of Rome. On the same site though you can find some of Carthage’s Punic remains including a kiln and a cemetery. Other Roman remains in Carthage include the Amphitheatre, remains of roman houses, columns and water cisterns alongside a small section of Roman aqueduct.

Carthage Museum

Other remains though of Roman and Punic Carthage can be found in the Carthage Museum; as well as the museum giving a lot more information on the city’s history you will be able to view artefacts and building remains unearthed during various developments in the city. Within the grounds of the museum you will also find the remains of a Punic era street and sculptures, mosaics and other exhibits.

History

Tozeur was historically an important stopping point for caravans crossing the Sahara, a place to rest and refuel before heading deeper into the dessert. It was also used as an important Roman outpost and has since been ruled by a variety of tribes including the Berbers for much of its history, who have perhaps the most influence on the city’s historic architecture.

Transport

Getting to Tozeur is time consuming but worthwhile, it is a place which would be teaming with tourists if it was easy to get to but remains largely unspoilt yet with good facilities for the tourists who do come here. The main and most convenient way in to Tozeur is by overnight train from Tunis.

What to See

The Medina, the old city, of Tozeur is where you will find the most historic and beautiful buildings, some are magnificent in their detail but most are more humble but still stand distinctive and proud: integral parts of the city that have stood for hundreds of years.

Tours and trips

From Tozeur you can also reach the Sahara easily, by Camel if you wish;. There are a wide number of different tours which may take in a number of Saharan villages nearby as well as the Palmaries. Though not for everyone those with an interest in film will love visiting the scene of much of Star wars:

A New Hope’s filming for scenes set of Tatooine which has been used for subsequent Star Wars films as well. For those accompanying Star Wars fans the sites in the dessert are themselves breath-taking and well worth a visit. Another breath-taking site is the dry lake: vast and barren yet picturesque a causeway across the lake is the best place to take photos from.

What to do

Tozeur’s zoo features many animals from north and sub Saharan Africa as well as the Sahara itself and may be worth a visit. The Hamman, A North African version of a Turkish Bath, is also worth visiting for a different yet relaxing experience, though you will need to remember your swimsuit and a towel and soap.
Food and Drink

Camels as well as being available to ride from Tozeur are also available to eat along with other traditional Tunisian food such as Cous Cous and lamb kebabs and steaks. Alcohol is only available from a small number of hotel bars but non alcoholic beers are widely available and may be a better option anyway in the heat of the dessert.

Tunis dates from at least the 4th Century BC when Berbers founded the town of Tunes. Tunis is close to Carthage and many visitors to Tunis visit the historic Carthaginian capital’s UNESCO world heritage site. Tunis though was destroyed by the romans at the same time as Carthage and has a lot of history to offer.

Rebuilt by the Romans under Augustus Tunis became an important town and has remained so ever since; parts from almost every stage of Tunis’ history are still here though the city is now a vast metropolis and primarily built during the last century.

What to see

The centre of the city is where most tourists head and home to most of the city’s many hotels. The old city area known as the Medina can be reached by bus from the airport outside the city but may be easier to reach by Taxi; once in the city you can get around on the suburban rail service as well as buses.
One of Tunis’ must see attractions is the Bardo Museum: partly for the collection and partly because it is located in a marvellous 13th Century Ottoman palace. The museum itself covers the entire history of Tunisia: that is a lot to take in so allow a full day. You may be tempted to only bother with the Carthaginian and Roman sections of the museum but this would be a mistake.

Bardo Museum in Tunisia

Another great attraction is the Zitouna Mosque, not only is it Tunisia’s largest, it dates from the 8th century. Although non-Muslims are not permitted into the Mosque you can visit the courtyard and take it much of the architecture including the distinctive minaret, a 19th century addition.

The Souk

The Souk in Tunis feels a lot less touristy than those in some North African towns and cities; it is a vibrant place where people live and work. Because of this and because people are primarily interested in going about their business they will not bother you as a tourist. You may find some souvenirs here but the food is also well worth trying for genuine local fare at great prices

Souks in the Medina, Tunis, Tunisia

Food and Drink

As well as Tunisian food you will find food that is influenced by French cooking as well as French dishes. Restaurants selling Tunisian food may be cheaper than those specialising in international cuisines and you will also get much better value and good sized portions.

Nearby

For day trips Carthage is nearby and along the coast there are resorts with great beaches, one thing that Tunis, despite being on the coast, is lacking.

Well known seaside resort areas – Sousse, Monastir,Hammamet and Nabeul, Djerba and Tabarka offer their visitors the finest sand beaches and crystalline water along with a dizzying choice of waterfront hotels featuring sun and seasports as windsurfing and sailing, underwater sightseeing, fishing and short boat rides.

Nearly Hotels are built with the visitor’s comfort and enjoyment in mind and their restaurants feature both international as well asTunisian Cuisine. During the peak summer season no effort is spared to provide the maximum of activities at the hotel and throughout the region .Summerfestivals held nearby invite you join in with your Tunisian hosts to celebrate Father Neptune, share their local folklore, enjoy a concert or or just have fun.

Feeling guilty about the long lazy days spent in delicious idleness bronzing on the beach? Often an hours drive from these modern resorts will bring you to another Tunisia, one of ancient Roman, Arab, Berber or Phoenician sites. Reminders of this rich historical past abound and visitors will return again and again captivated by the diversity of this Mediterranean land. Ask at your hotel for guided tours and information

.The Tunisian Tourist offices in most European capitals or in all major cities in Tunisia can supply a list of Guides, maps, brochures, and advice to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.

Situated off the coast of Tunisia, Djerba is a beautiful island in the Mediterranean sea. Within easy reach of almost every country in the world (thanks to its great transport links!), Djerba has long been the hidden jewel of the Mediterranean. Jewel is an appropriate title – its sparkling beaches set the perfect scene for its dramatic sunsets – a diamond sparkling in the cool, blue oceans. Read on the find out just what you can see and do, and why Djerba is the tourist hotspot for travels from both near and far.

History

With historical routes in Greek mythology (think Odysseus and the Lotus Eaters), Djerba has been a hidden paradise for a thousand years. Its history goes back to at least the fourth century BC, and it has been continually occupied since. The close proximity to Italy will probably give you a large clue about which civilisation had power, and influence, over Djerba for a huge amount of time, but the Romans were not the only civilisation to fall in love with Djerba, the Spanish also had their own time on the island, as did the Ottoman empire. These civilisations have all left their mark of Djebra – and the keen amateur archaeologist will find a multitude of sights to entertain and interest them.

What to do

One of the most interesting cultural activities in Djerba, is the history of pottery, travel out to Guellala and you will find a fascinating history of pottery – a historical village which has been in the pottery business for centuries! Lose yourself in the Houmt Souk – strolling around the little, winding streets is a delight – from silk sellers, to colourful spices, the Souk offers tourists a real insight into Djerba’s day to day life. Of course, the beach is an ever popular activity for tourists, and Djerba will not disappoint!

Where to stay

Your flight to Djerba may have left you a little out of pocket – but never fear! Djerba can offer a range of accommodation options, from hostels to hotels there is something for everyone. The Auberge de Jeunesse offers good quality, but cheap, accommodation as a youth hostel, while the Hasdrubal Thalassa & Spa offers a luxury stay for those who want to enjoy Djerba in style. Make sure you check out the meal options offered – many hotels offer “Western” menus, but do not be afraid to head into some of the cities and villages to check out the local offerings!

How to get there?

Lots and lots of airlines offer cheap flights to Sousse, although the cheaper you go the further away from actual Sousse you will land. Although flying is (relatively) direct and quite easy, there are other ways to get to Sousse that can make your holiday extra special. Why not drive? Hiring a guide to take you from the capital down to Sousse can help you to explore and understand Tunisia in great detail – from the small towns and villages to the big, vibrant markets. For the more adventurous, you could venture onto the train network (although this is not for the feint hearted!)

What to see/do?

Sousse offers literally hundreds of possibilities for everyone. For the tourist who wants a break, head to the beach – you will find a white, idyllic haven of natural waterfront beauty. For those who prefer more culture in their holidays, venture down to look at the local mosque – it really is quite superb in detail. The catacombs beneath offer the more stomach-strong tourist a chance to look into the history of Sousse – there are almost 15,000 tombs down here! The museum also has detailed exhibits of the history of Sousse, and provides a welcome relief from the burning midday sun! After a busy morning, there is nothing better than strolling around the little backstreets – admiring the tiny shops, and maybe stopping along the way for some strong, black coffee?

Where to stay?

There are a huge number of hotels in Sousse – to suit all budgets. At the top of the chain are the five star hotels, which provide large amounts of luxury – a good bet is the Hôtel de Paris, which will generally provide even the most discerning of tourists with a good standard of accommodation. For those who would prefer instead to go budget, the Gabes hotel offers a budget experience, while still maintaining home comforts.