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Holidays to Tunisia

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.

For the real sun-worshippers, July and August are the best months to visit. However, if you want good weather without too much heat, spring and autumn are ideal times to go. Early spring may not guarantee you wall-to-wall sunshine but you’ll find it ideal for exploring on foot and catching the wildflowers and apricot trees in blossom. Although January and February may not be considered peak beach weather, it’s the perfect time for heading out to see the vast desert landscape of the Sahara.
Known for its sandy beaches that hug this part of the Mediterranean coastline, you’ll have plenty of choice here. Tunisia has many beachside resorts. Head to Port El Kantaoui, where you can enjoy a day relaxing on sandy beaches, followed by an evening dining at one of the portside restaurants. Or take in Hammamet’s shoreline location, dotted with white-washed buildings and lush green palms. Here you can enjoy a scenic spot for sunbathing, swimming or trying your hand at watersports. And the long golden sands at Sousse are hard to fault either.
Apart from its warm climate, Tunisia is known for its location between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara. This enviable position has given Tunisia a good reputation as a holiday destination with long sandy beaches and awe-inspiring dunes. But this country’s link to ancient history can’t be ignored, with its wonderfully preserved buildings and thriving traditional culture. From the Roman Amphitheatre at El Djem to the remarkable ruins at Carthage, Tunisia is a popular place to explore some of the world’s best heritage.
With both Mediterranean and North African influences, Tunisian cuisine features an aromatic mix of herbs, spices, chickpeas, fresh vegetables, fish and fiery harissa. As the national dish, you’ll find couscous on many menus, although every restaurant will have its own flavoursome version. Brik, a hot, filled pastry, is another Tunisian staple. But this deep-fried eggy delight isn’t the only food you might get a taste for, if the doughnuts glazed with honey and cakes laden with almonds or dates catch your eye. Refreshing mint tea and local wine can be enjoyed with many restaurant meals, but the aroma of strong Tunisian coffee is never far away.
Tunisia has a lively calendar of public holidays, religious celebrations and traditional festivals. Traditional celebrations are scattered throughout the year, including the Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. As in many countries, the summers are filled with music and arts festivals that bring a lively atmosphere to the evenings. International festivals in Hammamet and Sousse take place in the height of summer. This is a great time to catch films, live music and dance performances. More traditional festivals with horse and camel racing are still popular in the country too.
Tunisia is a popular destination for families looking to enjoy long days on the beach combined with resort attractions. Children will love visits to the water parks and wildlife parks. However, Tunisia also offers plenty in terms of history and culture, making it a great destination for children and adults alike. With its shimmering coastal towns, colourful souks and authentic restaurants, couples looking for a relaxing break will find much to love. And, for the more adventurous, a trip out to the desert or an archaeological tour to the country’s best Roman landmarks will surely be memorable.