What to See and Taste in Tunis, Tunisia’s Colorful Capital

Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, is a city full of contrasts and surprises. From ancient history to lively markets, it blends the old and new in a way that feels alive and personal. Whether you stroll through the narrow alleys littered with history or savor the spicy smells wafting from a corner café, Tunis invites visitors to slow down and soak in its charm. If you’ve heard little beyond the name, get ready: Tunis has layers to uncover, tastes to savor, and stories to tell.

Landmarks That Paint History’s Picture

Starting with the medina-the old walled city-Tunis offers a labyrinth of tiny paths that seem to go on forever. This is where you can marvel at the intricate tile work of the Zaytuna Mosque, a spiritual heart of the city since the 8th century. Walking inside feels like stepping into a peaceful oasis despite the bustling world outside. The call to prayer echoes softly, a gentle reminder of the city’s deep roots.

Not far from the medina, the towering minarets and grand arches of the Kasbah stand guard, telling tales of dynasties long gone. It’s easy to get lost imagining life centuries ago as you peer from ancient ramparts over the modern cityscape. Nearby, the Bardo Museum houses one of the world’s best collections of Roman mosaics-colorful, detailed, and surprisingly well-preserved. The mosaic floors, covered in myth and legend, hint at a time when Tunis was a hub of the Mediterranean world.

Quiet Corners and Unexpected Finds

While the medina and museums draw many visitors, Tunis also has quieter places worth a visit. For example, the Gustave Flaubert neighborhood, with its mellow streets lined with art deco buildings, offers a glimpse of colonial history often overlooked. Here, small cafés invite you to linger with a cup of mint tea and watch locals go about their day.

A short walk leads you to the Belvédère Park, a green escape where locals exercise, chat, and picnic. On a sunny afternoon, the scent of orange blossoms mixes with the sound of children playing-a simple pleasure that feels wonderfully authentic. Not every city offers such a peaceful spot so close to its busy center.

Flavors of Tunis: Savoring Local Food

Food in Tunis tells stories of diverse influences-Arabic, French, Mediterranean, and African. Head to the Bab Souika district and follow your nose to stalls selling fragrant brik, a thin pastry filled with egg, tuna, and parsley, fried to crispy perfection. Don’t miss the harissa sauce that adds a cheeky spicy kick, a staple in Tunisian cooking.

Another favorite is couscous, often served with tender lamb or fish, steaming and soft under a shower of vegetables and spices. In the heart of the city, small eateries offer freshly baked bread called mlawi-a twisted flatbread perfect for scooping up dips or wrapping around grilled meats. Eating like a local means trying these dishes in humble cafés where the owner might smile and offer you a sweet cup of mint tea to finish the meal.

One quirky food moment I stumbled upon was a vendor selling ‘fricassé’-a sandwich packed with tuna, egg, and olives-that felt like a Tunisian twist on fast food, deliciously messy and utterly satisfying.

Getting Around Tunis: Simple Transport Ideas

Once you land at Tunis-Carthage Airport, getting to the city center is straightforward by bus or train. Both options offer a budget-friendly and scenic route into town, where you watch the city’s old meets new unfold through the window. The train station itself has that charming mix of old stone and modern bustle, a small snapshot of Tunisian life.

Within the city, public buses cover many routes, but the easiest way to move around is often by the small red shared minibuses, known locally as ‘louages.’ They’re affordable, frequent, and a bit of an adventure as you squeeze alongside locals, chatting or nodding to the music. Walk when you can-the best way to catch the city’s spirit, from the colors on a shop door to the smell of fresh spices in the air.

Culture Notes: Customs and Friendly Pointers

Chatting with locals revealed a few simple but important customs. For example, greeting with a warm “Salam” can open many doors; a respectful nod goes a long way. Modest dress is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites, so covering shoulders and knees is a good rule to follow.

One local told me, “Don’t rush tea time.” It’s true-tea or coffee in Tunis is meant to be savored, marking moments of friendship and pause. And while haggling in markets is expected, it’s best to keep it friendly and light-hearted; a smile and laughter can often get you farther than hard bargaining.

Myths, Stories, and a Bit of Quirk

At the Bardo Museum, I overheard a guide sharing a curious story about the mosaics-legend says some protect the city from bad luck. It’s easy to enjoy these artworks just as colorful decorations, but thinking of them as ancient guardians adds a layer of magic to the visit.

On another day, an elderly vendor in the medina showed me a tiny silver charm shaped like a hand-the “Khamsa,” or Hand of Fatima. He explained it’s a popular protective symbol, believed to ward off evil eyes. Such simple objects carry deep meaning here, a reminder that history lives in the small things as much as in grand monuments.

Where to Rest After a Day in Tunis

Choosing where to stay in Tunis depends on your taste. Some prefer the medina’s narrow alleys for their old-world charm, waking up to the sound of muezzins and the smell of fresh bread. Others opt for neighborhoods near the city center, where cafes and shops blend Tunisian warmth with modern comfort.

Guesthouses and small boutique inns here often offer a more personal experience than large hotels, with hosts eager to share stories, local tips, and sometimes even a homemade meal. Try picking a place within walking distance of the medina or the city’s parks to enjoy both culture and calm.

Visiting Tunis is like opening a storybook filled with scenes that surprise and delight. It’s a place where history hums beneath the surface-waiting for you to listen, taste, and roam.

Author: Omar Khalid

Desert explorer fascinated by ancient caravan routes and nomadic cultures.