Leave no stone unturned in the Medina of Tunis during your holidays in Tunis. Without a doubt, this is one of the must places to visit in Tunis. When visitors think of the Medina of Tunis they think of shopping, but there is much more to do in this antiquity. As you roam through the cobblestone streets of the Medina of Tunis you will notice cats wandering left and right, storekeepers trying every possible way to lure you into their store, and a feeling as if you are being whisked away to the ottoman empire, all this while a sweet hint of mint tea lurks around you. Consequently, it is easy to miss some of the best hidden pearls the Medina of Tunis has to offer.
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Marvel at the Traditional Doors in the Medina of Tunis
During your walk through a labyrinthine of cobblestone streets you will certainly notice the charming doors, known as Bebs in Tunisian. Their large size does not go without reason. In other words, these doors were originally designed as a large entrance for a person to enter the inner courtyard with their camels. You will notice the two smaller doors within the large door. One small door is dedicated for family members, while the other door is dedicated for guests.
Eat at a Traditional Tunisian Dar
Dar is the tunisian word for home. A traditional Dar in the souks consists of a beautiful inner courtyard covered in vibrant tiles and carefully crafted arches. There are two of the best restaurants that were former Dars in the Medina of Tunis. Moreover, both these Dars have been restored to keep their traditional design all the while serving some of the best traditional tunisian cuisine. In short, I would recommend the following for lunch, Fondouk El Attarine, and for dinner Dar El Jeld. Dar el Jeld is also one of the best hotels to stay in during your holidays in Tunis.
Address: Fondouk El Attarine:Souk Attarine, Tunis, Tunisia
Address: Dar El Jeld: 5 Rue Dar El Jeld, Tunis 1005, Tunisia
Get a Glimpse of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Heart of the Medina of Tunis
Located in the middle of Souk Es Sekajine ( the souk specializing in leather goods, saddles and horse harnesses) this vibrantly decorated tomb is worth the sight. To this day the person buried inside is not known. Although, the tomb is hard to find it is one of the things to see in Tunis.
Take a photo in Zitouna Mosque
This grand mosque is located in the heart of the Medina of Tunis. Its name literally translates to the mosque of olive. On any given day you can hear its soothing call to prayer through the streets of the souks. This mosque once served as the first university in Islamic history. The mosque has nine doors and an imposing courtyard. Undoubtedly, this courtyard serves as a perfect photo op for you, and its one of the things to see in Tunis.
Tip: If you plan on entering the mosque make sure you are properly dressed, as in no shorts, or shoulders showing. If you are a woman you will need to bring a scarf to cover your head before entering.
A Rug Store with a view of the Medina of Tunis
In a rug store tucked away in the medina of Tunis lies one of the most superb views. Firstly, upon entering one finds a plethora of knick knacks and rugs, as well as hungry shopkeepers looking to sell their rugs. Kindly request to see the rooftop of the shop, you are not obliged to buy a rug if you would like to see the rooftop. Secondly, once on top you will find what remains of an old villa. Not only is there tiled covered arches but the tiles also frame the view of the medina of tunis as well as downtown. It is the perfect spot to take photos, or just stop for a rest.
Tip: To find the store enter in your google maps Café Souk. It will be the rug shop next door.
La Kasbah- A Piece of Tunisian Political History
The Kasbah is a historical center that houses political and administrative buildings and it is one of the things to see in Tunis It should be noted that it was the center of political demonstrations during the 2011 revolution, and other demonstrations after. It contains a big open square that is nice for people watching and taking photos.
Savor a Delicious Fruit Tart at la Pâtisserie Zitouna
This modest bakery is tucked away in a quaint area of the Medina of Tunis, next to the Zitouna Mosque. It boasts delicious fruit or nutella tarts for only about one dinar. It is an appetizing treat during your holidays in Tunis.
Address: Pâtisserie Zitouna, Tunis, Tunisia
An Enchanting Mausoleum: Zaouia of Sidi Mehrez
An enchanting Mausoleum with an opulent ceiling that houses Sidi Mehrez, a beloved saint to this day. Hence, women still pay homage to the saint with prayers for marriage and fertility. It is one of the things you must do in the Medina of Tunis.
Marvel at Art in L’ancienne église Sainte-Croix
L’ancienne èglise Sainte-Croix is an old church in the heart of the Medina of Tunis that has been restored to an art gallery museum thanks to the Italian Embassy. This old church houses beautiful art that serves as a nice tranquil break from the hustle and bustle of the Medina.
Tip: Ask to see the roof. There is the original bell tower and a magnificent view of the city and the Medina of Tunis. It is one of the places you must see during your holidays in Tunis.
Pay homage to a Saint: Zaouia of Sidi Ben Arous
This vibrant mausoleum located in the medina was built in the 16th century for a 13th century professor that has been honored as a saint. As a result, there is still a prayer room frequented by his followers today. The mausoleum is made up of arches and tiles that serves as a colorful background for any photo.
I hope I was able to give you an unconventional itinerary for the Medina of Tunis! The Medina of Tunis is one of the things to see in Tunis during your holidays.
