A short three-hour flight from Dublin will find you in the North African country of Tunisia – an exotic destination with guaranteed sunshine, a Mediterranean coastline with amazing sandy beaches and excellent hotels right on the seafront. A holiday in Tunisia offers excellent value for money with many of the resorts offering all-inclusive packages. More and more holidaymakers are flocking here every year to take advantage of the cheaper prices, fantastic water-sports, great golf courses and excellent-value spa treatments.
It is a relaxed country in terms of dress code, and alcohol is freely available in bars and restaurant, which serve international cuisine, as well as local fish and seafood in the coastal resorts. Above all, the country has a wealth of cultural attractions. Explore the country’s ancient past, trek into the desert and spot exotic wildlife with our list of must-do activities!
Visit the original Star Wars set
Located in Matmata, Luke Skywalker’s underground home was modelled on the Berber cave dwellings found in the Sahara desert. Now a hotel called Sidi Driss, you can spend the night at George Lucas’s famous Mos Espa set, eat in the Lars’ dining room and take a drink at the bar surrounded by Star Wars memorabilia. Experience breathtaking views from Onk Jmel (the Camel Neck Rock), a nearby landmark featured in Episode 1: the Phantom Menace (used for the famous light sabre duel between Qui-Gonn Jinn and Darth Maul outside Mos Espa) and The English Patient.
Explore the ancient city of Carthage
Founded by the Phoenicians in 814 BC, Carthage was one of the most powerful cities of the Mediterranean in ancient times, before it was destroyed by Rome. The remains are listed as a Unesco world heritage site and well worth a visit.
See the mosaics housed in the Bardo Museum
Visit Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, to see the world-famous collection of over 1,000 Roman mosaics. Mosaic panels are typical of the art of Roman Africa and give a rich description of everyday life, mythology, hunting and amphitheatre games.
Shop in the great medinas of Tunis, Kairouan & Sousse
The medinas of Tunis and Sousse are both listed as World Heritage Sites and are well preserved with covered souks, vaulted passages and magnificently restored palaces and Kasbahs (citadel). The Kairouan medina is known for its religious prestige with formidable stone ramparts and interesting monuments. In the souks, you’ll find an array of local textiles, pottery, jewellery and spices to take home.
Head to the historic amphitheatre where Gladiator was filmed
The amazingly well-preserved ruins of El Jem are a fine example of Roman architecture. The largest amphitheatre in North Africa, it once held up to 35,000 spectators and you may recognise it from scenes in Gladiator and The Life of Brian.
Wander through the villa of Romanian millionaire Georges Sebastian
Renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright proclaimed it to be the most beautiful house he had ever seen. This 1920s villa, with its amazing arcaded swimming pool, is now a cultural centre open to the public.
Spend a thrilling day at Carthageland Theme Park
If you’re visiting Tunisia with children, then a stop at Carthageland is a must! Located in Yasmine Hammamet, right beside the sea, the first theme park in Africa has over 20 attractions to keep everyone entertained.
Get close to the local wildlife on a north African safari adventure
Also fantastic for kids, the Friguia safari park in North Africa is home to tigers, elephants, giraffes, monkeys. Most excursions include meals and a mesmerising Zulu show.
Discover the ancient fortress featured in The Life of Brian – the Ribat of Harthema
Located in the town of Monastir, this ancient fortress towering over the sea has been rebuilt over the centuries and was once a monastery-like place of pilgrimage and study. This ancient fortification was the dramatic setting for scenes in Monty Python’s masterpiece, as well as Spielberg’s Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Venture to the picturesque cliff-top village of Sidi Bou Said
20 km from Tunis, the pretty white-washed houses of Sidi Bou Said, with their blue woodwork, was a favourite haunt of artists like Paul Klee. Stroll along the marina or relax in one of the many small cafés.
So what are you waiting for?
Temperatures remain high all year round, making Tunisia the perfect destination to catch some winter sun, explore the sights or hit the beach. ClickandGo.com has great-value holiday packages with short, direct flights to Monastir airport and a wide range of hotels in this Mediterranean haven.
