Tunisia, a country often visited for its great beaches but this country has so much more to offer than its sun. With 8 UNESCO Heritage sites, historic landmarks and cultural medinas, Tunisia is a great country to explore. The country is situated on the North African coast. Its neighbouring countries are Algeria and Libya. The capital is Tunis and the local currency used is the Tunisian Dinar (TND).
Fun Fact! Every Star Wars film was filmed in Tunisia.
If you’d like to know more interesting facts about this African country, click here.
So, let’s break this country up into PARTS.
People
The majority of the population are Arabs with Europeans being a small minority of the county’s demographic. The country’s official languages are Arabic and French.
Attractions
If you’re heading to the Capital Tunis, there’s so much the city can offer.
Why not start in the centre; Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul is a beautiful cathedral located in the heart of the city. The Bab el Bhar is a monument spectating the Medina and European city. Zaytuna mosque is the oldest and greatest mosque in Tunisia with many Muslim scholars graduating from university over a thousand years ago. Both Belvedere park and Lake Tunis are great places to unwind after an exciting day of sightseeing with tranquil, picturesque landscapes.
Travelling to Tunis? Read our ultimate guide
A little out of the city is Bardo National Museum, is home to one of the largest collections of Roman mosaics.
Visit Sidi Bou said, Africa’s own Santorini! This little town overlooks the port with beautifully designed white and blue houses.
Explore the Carthage; These ancient ruins are the remnants of a once-powerful city destroyed by the Romans. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see piece of history.
Get lost In the Medinas. Each city has their own marketplace or Medinas with Tunis and Sousse’s being UNESCO World Heritage sites. These medinas are not only a reflection of the country’s previous eras but are a great way for tourists to immerse themselves in Tunisian culture.
Amphitheatre of El Jem. These are the largest colosseums in North Africa dating back to the 3ed century, These magnificent ruins really put the magnitude of the Roman empire into perspective.
Visit Thugga. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the capital of an important state during the Roman reign. With over 17 centuries worth of history in this site’s ruins, this place is an amazing step back into time.
Explore the Punic Town. This town is in the northeastern region of the country. This site though discovered in 1952 dates back to the 3rd century BC! Why not roam this town and discover the history of this ancient Phoenician city.
Rituals and Culture
The country mainly speaks Arabic and French with a few people speaking English. The country is predominantly Muslim with around 98% of the population being Arabs.
The country’s national dish is couscous. Some other typical Tunisian foods include: Ojja (egg and tomato sauce), Lablabi (chickpea soup) and mint tea. In Tunis it is quite common to see international cuisines also being served.
Tips
– Modesty is a must, especially as a woman. As the country is a Muslim country, foreign women and men should dress modestly to respect the culture.
– Learn the language. It may be useful to learn a little Arabic or French as English is not commonly spoken in smaller cities.
For more travel advice check out; FCO: Travel Advice
Outside of the UK: Please check your government’s travel advice carefully.
Story
Tunisia was the first country on my around Africa trip, and I was so excited to find out what the country had to offer. Like a smart tourist (not) I didn’t have a plan or even know what the country had to offer. I only knew that I would need to dress modestly. Oh boy did I have a great time finding out what the country had to offer.
I found Tunisian people to be very inviting, I’d often get people helping me for no reason other than I looked lost. Of course, in the more touristic areas people helping you expect a return. I loved walking through the medina in Tunis and seeing the vibrant cultural dresses and souvenirs.
I didn’t get to experience the art scene on my trip to Tunisia as it was quite short. But it gives me another reason to return to the country.
Check out my blog for more stories.
Watch my Youtube video with some more tips when travelling to Tunisia.