Tunis Airport

Useful Tips for Drivers

Traffic and Parking:

Tunis is bustling, especially during weekdays (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM), particularly around downtown, Avenue Habib Bourguiba, and the Medina. Traffic can be chaotic with frequent honking and occasional double parking. Finding a parking spot in the city center is tough—use paid parking lots or hotel garages when possible. Avoid parking near markets or in narrow alleyways, as traffic police are active and fines or towing are common. A compact car is best for navigating urban streets.

Road Conditions:

Major roads and highways like the A1 and RN9 are in fair to good condition, though potholes can appear without warning. Smaller roads, especially in older neighborhoods or rural areas near ruins or coastal towns, may be uneven or poorly marked. Drive cautiously at night, as lighting can be limited and local drivers may not always follow traffic rules.

Speed Limits:

In urban areas, limits range from 50–60 km/h. On highways, it rises to 90–110 km/h. Speed cameras are increasingly common, especially on major routes, and local police conduct spot checks for licenses and safety compliance. Seatbelts are mandatory, and using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited unless you’re hands-free.

Weather Conditions:

Tunis has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. In summer, strong sun and heat can strain both driver and car—carry water and use sunshades. Winter rains can cause localized flooding and slippery roads, especially around hilly areas. During spring and autumn, dust storms (known as “chergui”) may affect visibility, so keep your lights on and slow down.

Fueling:

Fuel stations are common along highways and main roads like Avenue de Carthage or the routes to La Marsa and Hammamet. Some stations close around 8:00 PM in suburban or rural areas, so don’t wait until your tank is low when heading out of town. Diesel and petrol are both available, and most stations accept cards, but it’s wise to carry cash just in case.

Culinary Delights and Local Traditions

Tunisian cuisine is spicy, bold, and delicious. Try couscous with lamb or seafood, brik (a crispy pastry with egg and tuna), and ojja—a sizzling tomato and egg dish. Harissa, the famous chili paste, is everywhere—from roadside cafés to gourmet restaurants. For dessert, grab makroud (date-filled semolina sweets) or zrir (a rich blend of sesame, honey, and nuts).

Cultural traditions run deep in Tunis. From the calls to prayer echoing over the Medina to the vibrant souks filled with crafts and spices, every corner holds a story. Don’t miss the music festivals, religious holidays like Eid, and local weddings with drummers and dancing—hospitality is at the heart of Tunisian life.

Must-See Attractions in Tunis

Medina of Tunis:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with twisting alleys, historic mosques, artisan shops, and vibrant souks. It’s the soul of the city—chaotic, beautiful, unforgettable.

Bardo National Museum:
Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Roman mosaics. Housed in a former palace, this museum is a must for history lovers.

Carthage Ruins:
Just outside the city, Carthage offers a glimpse into ancient Phoenician and Roman civilizations. Explore the Antonine Baths, Byrsa Hill, and the Punic ports.

Sidi Bou Said:
This blue-and-white clifftop village is straight out of a postcard. Walk its cobbled streets, sip mint tea with sea views, and browse art galleries.

Avenue Habib Bourguiba:
Tunis’ main boulevard, lined with cafés, trees, and French-colonial architecture. Often called the Champs-Élysées of Tunis, it’s perfect for a stroll or people-watching.

Dar Ben Abdallah Museum:
A traditional palace-turned-museum in the Medina, offering insight into aristocratic life and local craftsmanship from past centuries.

Shopping in Tunis

Tunis blends old-world charm with modern flair. In the Medina, bargain for ceramics, handwoven rugs, silver jewelry, and leather goods. Sidi Bou Said offers boutique art and traditional crafts, while the Tunisia Mall in Les Berges du Lac caters to international tastes. For foodie souvenirs, pick up olive oil, dates, or spice blends—especially ras el hanout and harissa.

Nearby Excursions

La Goulette:
A beachside suburb with seafood restaurants, a relaxed vibe, and a ferry port connecting Tunisia to Europe.

El Djem Amphitheatre:
One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, a few hours from Tunis. It’s massive, awe-inspiring, and almost never crowded.

Zaghouan:
An inland town known for its temple to the water god and Ottoman architecture—perfect for a peaceful day trip.

Cap Bon Peninsula:
Drive east to discover beaches, wineries, pottery villages, and coastal towns like Nabeul and Hammamet.

Conclusion

From the ancient ruins of Carthage to the whitewashed beauty of Sidi Bou Said, Tunis invites you to discover history, flavor, and soul. With otoQ Car Rental, every route becomes a story—from the spice-scented streets of the Medina to the cliffside cafés overlooking the Mediterranean.

Drive smart, explore deep—and if you capture a moment to remember?
Tag us with #otoQlicks to get featured in our stories.

Because that’s how we roll — from people, to people.

Engine starts!