If it’s your first time traveling to Tunisia, you can expect to be warmly welcomed to one of the most culturally-rich destinations in North Africa. While you may be thinking of all the beaches and historic sites you wish to visit, so much of traveling is involved in the preparation beforehand.
Luckily, Xperience Tunisia has all the information you need. Through our local expertise and experience leading private Multi-Day Tours of Tunisia, we’ve put together our insider travel tips for visiting Tunisia, ensuring you enjoy a smooth journey. Keep reading for our insights, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions about our luxury trips.
Entry Requirements for Tunisia
For most travelers, entry into Tunisia is uncomplicated. Visitors from the UK, EU countries, the United States, Canada, Australia and several other nations can enter Tunisia visa-free for stays of up to 90 days. Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure, and travelers may be asked to present accommodation details and proof of onward travel on arrival.
Choosing the Right Time to Visit Tunisia
Tunisia is a year-round destination thanks to its Mediterranean climate. However, journeying inland to the Sahara Desert, you can experience a significant change in temperatures depending on the season.
Spring, from March to May, is one of the most rewarding times to visit. Along the coast and in cities such as Tunis and Sousse, daytime temperatures are cool to moderate, while inland regions are warm but manageable, making this an excellent season for desert travel.
Summer certainly brings the heat. While sea breezes bring relief to coastal regions and sees visitors flock to the beaches, inland temperatures can reach highs of 40 degrees Celsius in July and August.
Between September and November, the cooler autumn temperatures mimic spring, allowing for easier inland exploration. Winters in Tunisia are mild in comparison to northern European destinations. With temperatures seldom dropping beneath 10 degrees Celsius, it’s ideal for discovering Tunisia’s landscapes without breaking into a sweat.
If you’re looking for inspiration on where to go and what activities to enjoy during your journey, make sure to read our guide to the Best Things to Do in Tunisia.
Cultural Awareness and Everyday Etiquette in Tunisia
In Tunisia, culture has been informed over the centuries by numerous different influences. But you will find that it is upheld by a warm, welcoming hospitality. While social life is relaxed, approaching your trip with some cultural awareness will only enrich your experience.
Tunisian Arabic is the main language spoken, and knowing a few phrases and greetings will enhance interactions with locals. Dress is informal in major cities and resort areas, though modest clothing is recommended in rural communities and religious settings. In mosques, women may wear headscarves.
Greetings are considered highly, with a simple handshake or nod well-received among new acquaintances. For more detailed information about social conventions, read our in-depth blog about Navigating Tunisia’s Cultural Norms with Confidence.
Money, Currency and Payments in Tunisia
When traveling to Tunisia, it’s important to note that you cannot exchange currencies beforehand. The Tunisian dinar (TND) is a closed currency, meaning it cannot be legally brought into or taken out of the country. However, you can withdraw and exchange money at banks, hotels, post offices, and bureaux de change. ATMs are widely available, but withdrawal fees of about $4 may apply. Travelers should also notify their bank before traveling, so that transactions are not accidentally flagged as suspicious.
While cards may be accepted for purchases in hotels, dine-in restaurants and some boutiques, many smaller businesses operate on a cash-only basis. This includes taxis, local cafés, market purchases and tipping. Outside major cities, cash is central to everyday transactions. Smaller denominations are especially useful, as change is not always readily available.
Tunisia’s Tipping Practices
While tipping in Tunisia is not obligatory, it is highly appreciated. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary when service is not included. Hotel porters, housekeeping staff and drivers appreciate modest tips, and guides can be tipped according to the level and duration of service provided. Have small change and notes available to show your appreciation.
Staying Connected in Tunisia
One of the best ways to stay connected in Tunisia is to purchase a local SIM card or eSIM with data packages upon arrival at the airport. This is the most reliable way to have internet connectivity, especially when you need to navigate or communicate. Free Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and luxury accommodations, though connectivity may be less consistent in remote regions. If traveling with a partner or in a group, try to ensure at least one person has internet access.
How to Get Around Tunisia
Tunisia offers several ways to get around the country, each suited to different travel styles. Buses are affordable and easily accessible in major cities, providing connections to many local destinations. For a more local way of travel, you can use the louages, which are shared mini-buses. But if you want freedom and flexibility, you’ll be better off renting your own car, if you’re comfortable navigating unfamiliar roads.
The best possible option for getting around Tunisia is by joining a guided tour. You’ll enjoy comfort, safety, and efficiency, all while benefiting from the knowledge of a local, expert guide. Rather than worrying about when to catch the bus or taking the wrong turn, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.
At Xperience Tunisia, our range of Multi-Day Tours of Tunisia are entirely private, allowing you to adjust the itinerary according to your wishes. There are no constraints on our tours, only that you say where you want to go and when!
Safety in Tunisia
Tunisia is one of the safest countries in North Africa to visit, with up to 10 million people arriving each year. But as with any destination, standard precautions apply. Stay aware of your surroundings, leave important valuables in your hotel, and purchase travel insurance if necessary. For a detailed overview of safety considerations, read our guide to Safety in Tunisia: Luxury Travel with Peace of Mind.
Join Xperience Tunisia for a Seamless Journey
If you’d prefer to have the planning and preparation taken off your hands, you’ve come to the right place. Our carefully curated Multi-Day Tours of Tunisia take care of everything for you, from the itinerary and the transport to the accommodation. Let our local guides whisk you off the best locations in the country, so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics. And since our tours are entirely private and customizable, the journey is in your hands! If you’re ready to start planning your trip to Tunisia, just get in touch with our team.
