Lose yourself in one of the Arab world's best-preserved medieval medinas: 700-plus monuments — mosques, palaces, madrasas and fountains — threaded through a labyrinth of whitewashed alleys. At its heart stands the 8th-century Zitouna (Olive) Mosque, ringed by the atmospheric souks of the perfumers, jewelers and chechia hat-makers. With a licensed guide the maze becomes a living thousand-year city rather than a place to get pleasantly lost.
What to expect
Narrow, shaded lanes thick with the smell of jasmine, leather and spice; vaulted covered souks; hidden courtyards and tiled palace doorways. Non-Muslims may enter the Zitouna courtyard (~3 TND) but not the prayer hall. Expect lively haggling and some hustle in the tourist-facing stretches — a guide keeps it relaxed and steers you to the genuine artisan workshops over the trinket stalls.
Good to know
About 25-30 min from La Goulette; the TGM light-rail to Tunis Marine plus a short walk also works. Dress modestly near the mosque (shoulders and knees covered). Carry small TND for the mosque courtyard and any purchases. Agree prices before buying, and keep a firm eye on all-aboard given central-Tunis traffic.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Tunis — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.