Things to do in  Tunis

If you’re vacationing in Tunisia, plan to spend at least three full days in Tunis before heading to Hammamet or south toward Djerba or Tozeur. Reserve one whole day to explore Carthage—where Punic archaeological sites are spread out—and the hilltop village of Sidi Bou Said.

Tunis is best known for its maze-like, medieval Medina. This charming district is home to more than 700 monuments, from mansions and mausoleums to madrasas and mosques. Don’t miss the fez cap shops. The best time for a wander is the morning or early afternoon, and the Medina shuts down early at night.

A Tunisian breakfast can be as simple as bread drizzled in olive oil and dipped in honey, or as elaborate as eggs cooked in a fragrant tomato sauce—a dish known throughout the Middle East as shakshuka. Expect a selection of cheeses and olives. Most guesthouses, known as dar, include breakfast.

Yes. Alcohol is legal in Tunisia, both to buy and to consume, although a round of hookah with a coffee or juice is a far more common vice. There are social taboos against drinking, so you’ll want to be discreet if you imbibe. Avoid public drunkenness at all costs.

Yes. While Tunis is a big, sprawling capital—home to several million people—it is still known for its warmth toward visitors. Expect kind smiles and curious questions. Female travelers should exercise the usual caution when talking to strangers. While behavior has improved in recent years, harassment can and does still occur.

Yes. While the city center is inland, you’ll find plenty of beaches in the suburbs of Tunis that are reachable by taxi or train. La Marsa has a popular public beach, although dubious cleanliness makes it better for a stroll than a swim. Gammarth, further north, is an excellent option for those looking to take a dip.