Family vacation in Tunisia: sun, culture, and adventure
Planning a family vacation in Tunisia? Discover the best regions, practical tips, and budget advice for an unforgettable trip with your kids.
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Sun, sand, and ancient history: why Tunisia is great for families
Tunisia is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, offering a delightful mix of sunny beaches, fascinating history, and Sahara adventures. It's relatively close to Europe, affordable, and boasts a welcoming culture with a special place for children. You can spend one day building sandcastles on a Mediterranean beach and the next exploring ancient Roman ruins or riding a camel into the desert. The variety means there’s something to keep every family member, from toddlers to teenagers, entertained.
The coastline is dotted with family-friendly resorts, particularly around Hammamet, Sousse, and the island of Djerba. These areas are well-equipped for tourism, with hotels often featuring kids' clubs, swimming pools, and direct beach access. But Tunisia is much more than just a beach destination. It’s a country with a rich and visible history. Imagine your children’s faces as they stand in the middle of the enormous amphitheater of El Jem, almost as large as the Colosseum in Rome, or wander through the ancient streets of Carthage. These experiences are not just fun; they're living history lessons.
The best regions for a family trip
Choosing the right base for your family is key to a successful Tunisian holiday. Each region offers a different flavour.
Hammamet and Nabeul: Located on the Cap Bon peninsula, this area is the classic choice for a family beach holiday. Hammamet’s new town, Yasmine Hammamet, is built around a marina and offers many resorts, restaurants, and an amusement park, Carthage Land. The old medina of Hammamet provides a more authentic experience. Nearby Nabeul is famous for its pottery, and you can visit workshops to see artisans at work. The beaches are sandy and gently sloping, making them safe for children.
Sousse and Port El Kantaoui: Sousse has a bustling, UNESCO-listed medina that feels like a trip back in time, with a magnificent ribat (fort) to explore. Just a few kilometers north, the purpose-built resort of Port El Kantaoui offers a more polished experience with its marina, golf courses, and fountains. It's a great combination of culture in Sousse and resort comfort in El Kantaoui.
Djerba: This southern island is known for its beautiful beaches, whitewashed villages, and unique culture. It’s a more relaxed and quiet option than the mainland resorts. Families can enjoy watersports, visit the famous El Ghriba synagogue, or explore the street art in the village of Djerbahood. The island
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Getting there from the Netherlands and Belgium
Getting to Tunisia is straightforward. Several airlines offer direct flights from Brussels (BRU) and Amsterdam (AMS) to Tunis-Carthage Airport (TUN). Flight time is around 3 hours. From Tunis, you can get a domestic flight to the island of Djerba (DJE) or arrange a private transfer to coastal resorts like Hammamet (approx. 1-hour drive) or Sousse (approx. 2-hour drive). For a more budget-friendly option, look for shared taxis, known as 'louages', from major transport hubs, though this might be challenging with a lot of luggage and small children.
Example itinerary: a 10-day coast and culture discovery
This route combines beach relaxation with easy-to-digest cultural highlights, perfect for a family.
Day 1-4: Base in Hammamet. Arrive at Tunis airport, transfer to your hotel in Hammamet. Spend the first few days relaxing by the pool and beach. Explore the old medina of Hammamet and have fun at the Carthage Land amusement park. A typical day could be: morning at the beach, lunch at a beachside cafe, afternoon exploring the souk, and dinner at the hotel.
Day 5: Day trip to Tunis. Take a pre-booked taxi or guided tour for a day trip to the capital (approx. 1 hour drive each way). Visit the ruins of ancient Carthage in the morning – focus on the Antonine Baths, which are impressive and located by the sea. In the afternoon, explore the charming blue-and-white village of Sidi Bou Said. Let the kids have a mint tea and a 'bambalouni' (a local doughnut).
Day 6-9: Base in Sousse/Port El Kantaoui. Change hotels to the Sousse area. Spend a day exploring the incredible Ribat and medina of Sousse. On other days, enjoy the facilities of Port El Kantaoui, perhaps taking a pirate ship boat trip from the marina. A highlight for many families is the day trip to El Jem (approx. 1.5-hour drive), home to the world's third-largest Roman amphitheater. It's much more accessible than the one in Rome; kids can run around and explore the corridors where gladiators once walked.
Day 10: Departure. Transfer from Sousse back to Tunis airport for your flight home.
Common mistakes to avoid
Travellers often make a few avoidable mistakes. First, trying to see too much. With a family, it's better to have two bases and explore from there rather than packing up and moving every other day. Second, underestimating the midday sun, especially from June to August. Plan your sightseeing for the morning or late afternoon and use the hottest part of the day for swimming or a siesta. Finally, don’t stick only to your hotel. The real magic of Tunisia is found in its historic sites, bustling markets, and friendly local encounters. Booking a hotel is easy, but making the effort to explore beyond its walls is what creates lasting memories.
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Regions
Hammamet
Djerba
Sousse & Port El Kantaoui
Tozeur & the Sahara
What does it cost?
: €450 - €700 —
: €700 - €1200 —
: €1200 - €2500+ —
Best time to travel
April - June:
July - August:
September - October:
November - March:
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Stay hydrated, but be smart about it: Don't drink tap water. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Always have a good supply, especially when heading out on day trips.
Rent a car for freedom: While organised tours are easy, renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Roads between major tourist areas are generally good, but a GPS or navigation app is essential.
Embrace the 'souk' experience: The markets (souks) are a feast for the senses. It's okay to bargain, but do it with a smile. It's part of the culture. Look for handmade leather goods, ceramics, and spices.
Mix beach time with culture: Don't just stay in the resort. Plan day trips to places like El Jem or the Sidi Bou Said artist village. This gives your children a broader perspective of the country.
Learn a few words of Arabic: A simple "As-salamu alaykum" (hello) and "Shukran" (thank you) will be greatly appreciated and open doors to friendly interactions.
Be prepared for a different pace: Things might not always run on a strict schedule. Embrace the relaxed Tunisian pace of life, especially in restaurants and shops. Patience is a virtue here.
Pack for all occasions: Include swimwear and sun protection, but also modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) for visiting religious sites or traditional villages. A light jacket is useful for cooler evenings.
Try a camel ride, but choose wisely: A camel ride into the Sahara is a classic experience. Opt for shorter, reputable tours, especially with younger children. An hour at sunset is often more enjoyable than a long trek.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Tunisia a safe country for a family vacation?
Yes, Tunisia is generally a safe country for tourists, especially in the main resort areas. It is wise to stay informed about the current travel advice from your government and take normal precautions, like being aware of your surroundings.
What is the best time of year to visit Tunisia with children?
The best times are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). The weather is pleasantly warm but not too hot for activities, and you avoid the peak summer crowds and heat.
Do I need to dress modestly in Tunisia?
Within resort areas, beachwear is completely normal. When visiting towns, markets, or religious sites, it is respectful to dress more modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. It's a good idea to bring a scarf or light cardigan for these occasions.
Can my children drink the tap water in Tunisia?
It is strongly recommended to drink only bottled water in Tunisia. Use it for brushing teeth as well to avoid any stomach upsets. Bottled water is widely available and affordable.
What are some must-do activities for kids in Tunisia?
Besides the beach, kids often love exploring the amphitheater of El Jem, visiting the film sets of Star Wars near Tozeur, and riding a camel in the desert. The amusement park Carthage Land in Hammamet is also a big hit with families.
Is it easy to find food that my children will eat?
Yes, most hotels and tourist restaurants offer international dishes like pizza, pasta, and french fries. However, do encourage them to try local specialties like 'brik' (a savory pastry) or mild couscous. Most Tunisian food is not overly spicy.
What is the currency in Tunisia and can I use euros?
The currency is the Tunisian Dinar (TND). While euros are sometimes accepted in tourist shops for a higher price, it's best to use dinars for daily expenses. You can exchange money at the airport or withdraw from ATMs.