From the majestic Atlas Mountains, Roman Carthage and the bustling, cosmopolitan capital Tunis at its northern tip, to the sun-drenched island of Djerba in the south, Tunisia packs a lot into a small space. The interior offers spectacular desert landscapes and Sahara adventures. On Tunisia's Mediterranean beaches, however, you'll bask at modern resorts like Sousse and enjoy spicy gourmet cuisine.
Historical ties to France have left a legacy of style and good living in Tunisia's capital Tunis. This thriving little Arab nation successfully follows a pro-Western path, with a string of modern beach resorts from Hammamet to Monastir. Tunisia is just across the Mediterranean Sea from Italy, so it has impressive Roman sites, such as El Djem and Carthage. Yet, its southern interior remains an awesome landscape, with adventurous desert resorts like Tozeur.
While the capital Tunis has European-style avenues and sophisticated shopping, you may need a guide to navigate the twisting alleys of its Medina, or Arabic city centre. See the Medina's Great Mosque and covered souk markets, and head out of town to visit Roman Carthage. Down the coast, the resort of Sousse and the busy commercial town of Sfax offer an authentic insight into Tunisian culture.
You'll discover a fantastic variety of scenery in sparsely populated Tunisia, from the north's cool Atlas Mountains and Ichkeul wetland reserve to the vast salt lakes and baking Sahara desert in the south. The country also has unmissable Roman sites like spectacular Dougga. The offshore island of Djerba is a tranquil gem of palm and olive groves and white beaches. An exciting alternative is to visit an inland oasis town like Tozeur.
