Tunis is a city that rewards slow travel. It has the atmosphere of a classic North African capital, blended with a relaxed coastal rhythm that feels worlds away from the usual city break. Five days gives you the perfect amount of time to explore its historic districts, wander through seaside neighbourhoods, and enjoy stretches of coast that sit just a short ride from the centre. This itinerary focuses on experiences, viewpoints and neighbourhoods that are accessible throughout the year, making it easy for any traveller to follow.
Day 1: The Tunis Medina and its Timeless Souks
Begin your trip in the heart of the city, where the Medina unfolds in a maze of narrow alleys, vaulted passages and traditional homes. This area has been the centre of life in Tunis for centuries and it is an ideal place to settle into the rhythm of the city. Rather than rushing from one spot to another, take time to wander. The souks are arranged by craft, so you can drift from textiles to copperware and from perfumes to ceramics. Even if you are not shopping, the craftsmanship and atmosphere make for a memorable introduction to Tunisian culture.
The Medina also offers several quiet corners that contrast with the lively market streets. Look out for courtyards, rooftop terraces, and historic houses where you can take a breather and enjoy views over the old town. Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring different neighbourhoods within the walls. Each section has its own story, from elegant mansions to smaller artisan districts. It is the kind of place where you can let your curiosity guide you.
Day 2: Carthage and its Ancient Legacy
Your second day is all about history and sea air. Travel out to Carthage, a coastal district that sits just a short journey from the centre of Tunis. Today it is a calm residential area dotted with archaeological sites. The ancient Phoenician and Roman remains are spread across a wide area, giving you the freedom to explore without feeling rushed or crowded.
Walk between viewpoints, open spaces and ruins that tell different chapters of Carthage’s past. The coastal setting adds a peaceful backdrop to the historic landscape, and makes the visit feel more like a gentle day outdoors than a formal museum stop. You can spend several hours exploring at your own pace, with time to enjoy the sea breeze and the green spaces that surround many of the historic areas.
After exploring the archaeological sites, continue walking through the surrounding neighbourhoods. Many streets are lined with traditional villas, gardens, and glimpses of the coast. It is a lovely place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon before making your way back into Tunis.
Day 3: Sidi Bou Saïd and Coastal Views
Spend your third day in Sidi Bou Saïd, one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in the region. Sitting on a cliffside above the coast, it is famous for its white houses, blue accents and dramatic views over the Gulf of Tunis. The village layout naturally encourages slow exploration. Winding lanes lead between courtyards, viewpoints and hidden corners, creating an atmosphere that feels calm even when it is busy.
Start by exploring the upper part of the village where the main viewpoints are located. From here you can look across the sea, the harbour below, and the hills that frame the city. The play of light on the water changes throughout the day, so it is worth taking your time and enjoying the scenery. As you wander further down the slope, you will pass a mixture of craft shops, small squares, and quiet residential lanes. The combination of coastal air and traditional architecture makes this one of the most enjoyable walks in the region.
Sidi Bou Saïd is also a great place to pause and unwind. Take breaks at scenic viewpoints or find a shaded corner where you can soak in the atmosphere. Many visitors choose to spend a full day here because the pace is so peaceful and the scenery so striking.
Day 4: La Marsa and the Relaxed Northern Coast
Day four takes you further along the coast to La Marsa, an elegant seaside district known for its long shoreline and lively atmosphere. The area blends beach life with city energy, and it offers an easy escape from the bustle of central Tunis. You can begin your day with a walk along the water where the beaches stretch out in both directions. The shoreline changes in character as you move along it, shifting from quiet residential pockets to more active seaside promenades.
The centre of La Marsa is ideal for exploring on foot. There are tree lined streets, local markets, and coastal viewpoints where you can stop and enjoy the sea breeze. This neighbourhood is also known for its relaxed lifestyle, and popularity with both locals and travellers who enjoy a mix of beach and city living.
If you want a slower afternoon, head towards the quieter stretches of the coast where you can take a peaceful walk or simply enjoy the views. La Marsa offers a welcome contrast to the historic intensity of the Medina and the archaeological landscape of Carthage, giving your itinerary a nice balance of culture and relaxation.
Day 5: Gardens, Museums and a Taste of Local Life
For your final day, stay within or close to central Tunis and enjoy a blend of culture, green spaces, and neighbourhood exploring. Start with one of the city’s main parks or gardens where you can enjoy an easy morning stroll. These areas provide a refreshing break from the busier districts and give you a feel for everyday life in the city.
From there, move on to a museum or cultural venue of your choice. Tunis has a selection of excellent institutions that explore everything from ancient history to decorative arts. Pick one that aligns with your interests and spend a couple of unhurried hours there. This allows you to round out your understanding of Tunis by adding a deeper cultural layer to the trip.
Four of the most popular include:
1. Bardo National Museum: The flagship museum of Tunisia, with world class mosaics and archaeological collections. Located in the Bardo district of Tunis.
2. Dar Ben Abdallah, Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions: A historic palace in the Medina showcasing traditional Tunisian life, crafts and domestic culture.
3. National Theatre of Tunis: A major cultural institution in central Tunis that hosts theatre, dance and music performances.
4. National Library of Tunisia: A modern cultural landmark with exhibitions, archives and public spaces that highlight Tunisia’s literary heritage.
In the afternoon, explore neighbourhoods just beyond the central core. Look for residential districts with traditional architecture, small craft shops or peaceful squares. It is a good opportunity to enjoy the city without following a strict itinerary. Spend your final evening walking through the lively streets of central Tunis where markets, shopfronts and local landmarks create an energetic atmosphere.
A Balanced Five Day Experience
This five day itinerary combines the best of Tunis, and offers an insight into the country’s character. You get the historic depth of the Medina, the archaeological wonder of Carthage, the cliffside beauty of Sidi Bou Saïd, and the coastal calm of La Marsa. Each day offers a different pace, from quiet exploration to coastal relaxation, giving you a complete and satisfying picture of the region.
Where to Stay
Royal Victoria – Ex British Embassy: Decorated with a local flavour, this historic building has been converted to a hotel, offering guests an unmatched Tunisian experience. Superbly located at the heart of the Medina, the property provides a sun terrace, restaurant and free WiFi. There is a minimarket on site for all your essentials, and each room boasts a balcony, desks and soundproofing.
Hôtel Suisse Tunis: With its clean, modern décor, Hôtel Suisse Tunis is an oasis of calm where guests can retreat after a full day of sightseeing. Praised by past visitors for its opulent breakfasts and sunny rooftop terrace, the hotel provides a very comfortable base for a 5-day trip to the city and its surroundings.
Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center: If you want luxury accommodation for your stay in Tunis, this hotel fits the bill. Elegantly appointed in its private and public spaces, the site and its amenities are hard to surpass. Guests enjoy a 5-star experience that includes a rooftop swimming pool, spa treatments, a steam room and a sun terrace. Breakfast is served in the family friendly restaurant, with a menu that caters to halal, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
How to Get There
Flying to Tunis from the UK is straightforward and direct, with a range of carriers offering flights. If you’re holidaying in the city you should book a ticket to Tunis Carthage Airport. Flight times are approximately 3 hours, and there are around 85 departures per week. The cheapest month is January, but prices are generally reasonable throughout the year if you fly with one of the low cost operators like easyJet.
Shuttle Direct provides a range of airport transfer options from Tunis Carthage that can be pre-booked in advance of your trip.
Overview
UK to TUN Flight Time: 3 hours
TUN to Tunis: 10 kilometres approx.
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 15-20 minutes
Types of Transfer
The Tunis airport transfer is a short hop to most of the city’s main accommodation options, so we have a range of reasonably priced, reliable ways to get you there.
Shuttle Bus: We provide a dedicated Tunis transfer bus route that departs at regular times from designated spots close to the Arrivals terminal for the start of your trip, and at Departures for your return journey. Serving several conveniently located stops in the centre, you can book your seat before you start your holiday for both your arrival and departure. It’s a prompt service offering great value for money.
Taxi: The airport can be busy, so customers who would prefer to book a TUN to Tunis transfer by taxi can do so in advance with Shuttle Direct. One of our friendly drivers will track your flight and collect you after you exit the baggage hall. The vehicle will be waiting for you, and you’ll be dropped off at the door of your hotel – no queues, no stress.
Private Transfer: Tunis is a magical city and offers many opportunities for a more luxury style holiday. For visitors who want to start the pampering experience from the moment they land in TUN, we have a fleet of modern, comfortable vehicles with a designated, professional driver. It is recommended to book these private transfers from Tunis airport to Tunis centre as soon as you’ve bought your airline tickets, to ensure you get the service option you want.
Minibus Transfer: At Shuttle Direct we are a market leader in airport transfers for larger groups of family or friends. If you’re travelling with several people in your party and you’d like to be collected and dropped off together, the minibus is the most efficient service that we offer.
Choosing the Right Transfer
With so many options, which one should you choose? In reality, it all comes down to the demands of your itinerary and of your budget.
Cost: If you are happy to get yourself to your accommodation from a nearby bus stop and you aren’t constrained by a tight schedule, then the shuttle bus is the best choice for minimising airport transfer costs.
Convenience: For travellers with tight deadlines, or for those who prioritise a seamless transfer from Tunis airport to the doorstep of their hotel and back again, paying a little extra for the taxi, private transfer or minibus is value for money.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct has been ferrying holidaymakers and business visitors to Tunis from the nearby airports for many years. Our range of options, great prices, friendly drivers and punctual service put us head and shoulders above our competitors.
