Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Getting Around Tunis by Metro
- Getting Around Tunis by Train
- Getting Around Tunis by Taxi
- Getting Around Tunis by Bus
- Getting Around Tunis by Car
- Getting Around Tunis with Domestic Flights
- Exploring the Rest of Tunisia
Introduction
When visiting Tunis, one of the most important aspects to consider is how to get around the city. With various transportation options, such as metro, trains, taxis, and buses, there are several ways to travel between major attractions and surrounding areas. This guide will help you understand how to make the most of Tunis’s transportation options, allowing for practical and economical travel.
The transportation system in Tunis offers good coverage of the city, though it may initially seem complex. With a bit of preparation, you’ll find that getting around Tunis is easier than it appears, thanks to the numerous public transport options available.
Let’s take a closer look at the main ways to travel around and how to use them to explore Tunis and its surroundings comfortably and safely.
Getting Around Tunis by Metro
One of the most popular ways to get around Tunis is by the light metro, a system similar to a tram that mainly runs at street level. This transport option offers an affordable and quick way to travel from one end of the city to the other, ideal for those looking to avoid urban traffic. Getting around Tunis by metro is simple: just familiarize yourself with the main lines and transfer stations.
The light metro system in Tunis comprises six main lines, covering much of the city and connecting the central areas with the suburbs. The main lines start from Tunis Marine and Place de Barcelone, two stations located on the edge of the Medina, making it easy to reach both the city center and peripheral areas.
Popular destinations on the metro include the Ariana neighborhood and the El Mourouj area. With frequent trains and affordable costs, the metro is an excellent way to explore Tunis without needing a car.
Getting Around Tunis by Train
For those looking to explore areas near Tunis, suburban trains are a convenient option. From Tunis Marine station, TGM trains connect the city center with various suburban destinations, including some of the most popular tourist spots. The train is especially useful for reaching La Goulette, Sidi Bou Saïd, Carthage, and the beaches of Marsa.
This suburban railway line is one of the most affordable and fast ways to explore nearby tourist destinations, with frequent trips and reasonable prices. However, it’s worth noting that some intermediate stations may not have ticket offices, so it’s best to buy tickets in advance, especially for multiple trips.
Traveling by train in Tunis provides a panoramic view of the city and coastal landscapes. For visitors, it’s an opportunity to discover Tunisia’s coastline while experiencing local, comfortable public transport.
Getting Around Tunis by Taxi
Taxis in Tunis offer a comfortable and flexible solution for those who prefer to travel around the city without waiting for public transportation. Tunisian taxis are affordable, and with the meter on, fares are convenient. However, to avoid paying extra, it’s better to hail taxis directly on the street instead of outside hotels.
For a more local experience, there are shared taxis known as louages. These minivans only depart when full and are a common choice for traveling to different destinations, even outside the city. Louages cost slightly more than buses but allow for faster travel and more flexible schedules.
Getting around Tunis by taxi is simple, with plenty of vehicles available and affordable fares. Always remember to ask the driver to activate the meter, and you’ll quickly reach any city destination safely and comfortably.
Getting Around Tunis by Bus
For budget-conscious travelers, Tunis buses are a great option. The city is served by the Transtu company, which operates urban and suburban lines. The fare system varies depending on the zones crossed, with prices starting at just 0.320 DT for a short trip.
Buses are one of the most commonly used transportation modes for both locals and tourists, as they cover all areas of the city. However, they may be less comfortable during rush hours when buses tend to get crowded, especially on major lines.
Despite this, the bus system in Tunis is quite efficient and covers a wide area of the city. Tickets are generally purchased at the stop or directly on board, offering an economical and practical way to get around the city without spending too much.
Getting Around Tunis by Car
Using a car in Tunis can be convenient, especially if you want to explore the city’s surroundings and reach places like Carthage or Sidi Bou Saïd. However, traffic in Tunis can be heavy, and driving may be chaotic for those unaccustomed to it.
Driving in the city isn’t always easy, as the Medina is a pedestrian area, and many streets are crowded. Alternatively, visitors can park in one of the public parking lots in the center, such as the one near the Clock Tower.
A car can be useful for exploring the surrounding areas and reaching more distant destinations independently. Road signs are in both Arabic and French, making navigation outside the city fairly simple.
Getting Around Tunis with Domestic Flights
For those looking to explore other regions of Tunisia, domestic flights offer a fast and efficient option. Tunisair Express operates flights connecting Tunis airport with several cities, including Djerba, Gabes, and Tozeur.
Domestic flights are ideal for those short on time and wishing to move quickly from city to city, allowing for more places to be explored during the trip. Booking is easy and can be done online or through local travel agencies.
In a compact country like Tunisia, flights last no more than an hour, making this a very practical choice for those seeking fast and comfortable transportation.
Exploring the Rest of Tunisia
Besides the capital, Tunisia offers many other tourist destinations and historic cities to visit. Intercity trains and buses are the most popular options for nationwide travel, with frequent departures from Tunis to places like Sousse and Sfax.
The trains are modern, comfortable, and offer different service levels. The SNCFT, the national railway company, operates all routes, allowing for convenient travel to various cities. Buses, on the other hand, are operated by SNTRI, with direct routes to many destinations across the country.
Exploring Tunisia by train or bus allows travelers to enjoy breathtaking landscapes and discover the diverse facets of the country, from coastal cities to deserts and mountains.
Here’s a short video, click here.
Read our other articles, click here.
