Tunis City Guide

Local dishes like Couscous and Brik are must-tries. International food is good, mainly in upscale areas. Vegetarian options exist but dedicated places are rare. Some places serve late.

Nightlife centers on hotels and some bars or clubs. Alcohol is available but used discreetly.

Strong coffee culture with many traditional and new specialty cafes, especially in newer districts.

Tipping is usually optional but appreciated. Round up fares or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service.

SIM cards require ID registration. Buy at the airport or official stores. Top providers are Tunisie Telecom, Ooredoo, and Orange. eSIM is rare.

Cleanliness varies by neighborhood. Tourist and new areas are cleaner, while some residential zones can be untidy.

Some pharmacies rotate 24/7. Many small stores stay open late. Emergency hospital services operate round the clock.

Big supermarkets like Carrefour and Monoprix sell international products. Fresh markets like Marché Central offer local produce. Bargaining is common in souks.

Cash is king in small shops, souks, and taxis. Cards work in bigger hotels, supermarkets, and nicer restaurants. Mobile payments are rare.

ATMs are common in city centers, banks, and malls. Major banks include BIAT, STB, Amen Bank, and Attijari Bank. Check your bank for possible withdrawal fees.

International schools offer American and British systems. Local schools teach mainly in Arabic and French. Check admission early.

Digital nomads are growing in number but still small. Meetups happen mostly on social media. Co-living is limited.

Large parks like Belvedere provide green space and shade, with smaller gardens scattered around the city.

Good running routes in parks and along the coast. Running safety is generally good during the day. Annual races occur.

Popular gym chains and many hotels offer fitness facilities.

Tennis courts available at clubs and hotels, mostly clay or hard surface, with coaching available.

Padel courts are not common in Tunis.

Several yoga studios offer classes with some English instructors. Wellness centers and spas are common.

Various martial arts like Taekwondo, Karate, and Judo are practiced. BJJ and Muay Thai are rare but growing.

No skiing in Tunisia.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular near coastal towns, mainly in spring and summer.

Limited surfing near Tunis. Some spots further south. Best in autumn and winter. Few surf schools.

Diving spots along the coast with variable visibility. Suitable for all levels with available equipment rentals.

Private clinics with English-speaking staff are available. Pharmacies are common and marked with a green cross. Emergency numbers: 190 (ambulance), 197 (police), 198 (fire).

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but many prefer bottled water for taste.

Parks like Belvedere have playgrounds. Kid-friendly cafes exist in modern neighborhoods. Attractions include Bardo Museum and Carthage ruins.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is low. Laws are conservative, public displays are discouraged, and safe spaces are nearly nonexistent.

Pet-friendly spots exist but are limited. Good veterinary care and supplies are available. Pet parks are scarce.