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Tunisia Holidays

A hypnotic North African escape

It might be miniature compared to other North African countries, but Tunisia packs a lot in. And while this holiday hotspot might offer up the same smart hotels and sunny beaches as lots of other destinations, it’s also a heady mix of Med climate, desert landscape and Berber traditions.

Ancient sites pepper the place. In the capital, Tunis, and resorts like Sousse and Hammamet, you can amble around timeworn medinas, where merchants tout Aladdin lamps in centuries-old souks, and faded kasbahs serve up mesmerising sea views. These crumbling neighbourhoods offer a snapshot of days gone by, and it’s where you’ll find some of the best Tunisian cuisine – a mix of pared back cafés and street food carts, serving up tender meat cuts soaked in spices and steaming cups of mint tea.

If you like, you can sidestep the history on holidays to Tunisia and just concentrate on beach time. The country has countless sandy stretches, which range from milky white to caramel-coloured, and all of which, come with a sprinkling of palm trees.

This is also Lawrence of Arabia territory, and exploring the Sahara Desert is a real must-do. There are countless ways to experience the rolling dunes – camel rides at dusk, adrenaline-pumping quad biking or overnight, staying with a real Berber tribe.

All regions in Tunisia

Three tips for a top trip

Try the cuisine

Tunisian food is delicious. Try brik – a flaky pastry with an egg and tuna filling, and harissa, a thick, smoky sauce made for bread dunking.

Closed currency

The local currency is the Tunisian Dinar, and it’s a closed currency, which means you can only exchange once you’re in the country.

Haggle away

Bartering with the local market traders is a way of life in Tunisia. If you find some too pushy, don’t be afraid to give them a firm ‘no’ before briskly walking away.

Don’t-miss dates in Tunisia

March

Spring temperatures are decidedly cooler, so if you’re looking to explore the countryside it’s a great time to visit. Prices are lower, too.

June

School holidays are in full swing and temperatures soar. Between now and August, resorts like Sousse and Hammamet are especially popular.

August

The International Festival of Carthage takes place in the town’s amphitheatre, and attracts chart-topping music stars. There are also ballet and theatrical performances.

Best things to do in Tunisia

Explore ancient medinas

Tunisia is famous for its crumbling kasbahs and markets, cocooned by age-old stone walls. Tunis, Sousse and Monastir all have atmospheric old quarters to discover.

Cross the Sahara Desert

This spectacular landscape is yours for the taking in Tunisia. Choose to explore the dunes on a camel, quad bike or 4x4.

Visit Sidi Bou Said

Nowhere showcases Tunisian beauty like Sidi Bou Said. This northern clifftop town is all gleaming sugarcube houses with bright blue trimmings, and it’s covered in flowers.