Tunisia

Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, is a city steeped in history and culture. Some of the must-see attractions in Tunis include the Bardo Museum, which houses one of the world's largest collections of Roman mosaics; the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a maze of narrow streets and souks; and the Zitouna Mosque, which dates back to the 8th century and is one of the most important mosques in Tunisia.

Sidi Bou Said is a picturesque coastal village just outside of Tunis. Some unique experiences to have in Sidi Bou Said include wandering the cobblestone streets and admiring the blue and white architecture; visiting the Museum of Popular Traditions, which showcases Tunisian art and culture; and enjoying a cup of mint tea with views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Tunisia has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches to visit include Hammamet Beach, a popular resort town with soft sand and clear water; Mahdia Beach, a quieter option with white sand and turquoise waters; and Djerba Beach, the largest island in North Africa with a mix of beaches, markets, and historic sites.

Carthage, located just outside of Tunis, is an ancient city with a rich history. Some of the top things to do in Carthage include visiting the Carthage Museum, which houses artifacts from the Punic, Roman, and Byzantine eras; exploring the ruins of the ancient city, including the Baths of Antoninus and the amphitheater; and admiring the views of the Mediterranean Sea from the Byrsa Hill.

Tunisian cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean and North African flavors. Some traditional Tunisian dishes to try include couscous, a staple made from semolina wheat and served with meat or vegetables; brik, a savory pastry filled with egg, tuna, or cheese; and shakshuka, a dish of eggs poached in a tomato and pepper sauce.

Tunis has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the best accommodations in Tunis include La Villa Bleue, a boutique hotel in Sidi Bou Said with stunning sea views; El Mouradi Gammarth, a luxury resort with a private beach and pool; and Dar Ben-Gacem, a traditional guesthouse in the Medina of Tunis.

Tunisia has a diverse landscape that offers many opportunities for outdoor activities. Some popular outdoor activities in Tunisia include hiking in the Atlas Mountains, which offer stunning views and a chance to see wildlife such as Barbary macaques; camel riding in the Sahara Desert, where you can experience the vastness and beauty of the desert; and scuba diving in the Mediterranean Sea, which has a rich marine life and many shipwrecks to explore.

The best time of year to visit Tunisia depends on what you want to do and see. The summer months of June to August are the hottest and busiest, with many tourists flocking to the beaches. Spring and fall are good times to visit for milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter can be a good time to visit for lower prices and the chance to see snow in the Atlas Mountains.

Tunisia is generally a safe and welcoming country, but it's always a good idea to take precautions when traveling. Some tips for traveling in Tunisia include dressing modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites; bargaining in markets and shops, as it's expected and part of the culture; and being aware of your surroundings and belongings in crowded areas and on public transportation.

While Tunis, Carthage, and Sidi Bou Said are the most well-known tourist destinations in Tunisia, there are many other places to visit that offer a glimpse into the country's history and culture. Some lesser-known places to visit in Tunisia include the town of Testour, which has a rich Jewish history and a beautiful mosque; the Roman site of Dougga, which is well-preserved and less crowded than other Roman sites in Tunisia; and the Kerkennah Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Tunisia that offer a quiet and peaceful escape.