Tunis - North Africa

Tunis Boulevard

Tunis is the capital of North Africa's smallest country - Tunisia. Recently it has featured prominently on television screens around the world as demonstrations in its squares and boulevards were among the first in the 'Arab Spring', resulting in the fall of the dictatorship. Modern Tunis encompasses the ancient ruins of Carthage, a major Mediterranean trading power destroyed by the Romans. The excavated remains and museum in Tunis' northern suburbs are well worth visiting as is the Bardo museum which houses one of the best displays of Roman mosaics in the world.

Tunis Cafe near the Medina

Tunis is a compact city and while Tunisia is predominantly Islamic in religion, is a westernized city displaying a strong French influence. In fact, understanding some French is very useful for any tourist outside major hotels. The Medina, a complex walled area with narrow streets, lined with shops, is at the heart of the old city. The more recently built areas are more European in appearance, with a wide central boulevard, a grid structure of streets, cafes and some excellent 1920's colonial buildings. Finding your way around, especially using the tram system, is very easy.

National Theatre, Tunis

More information about visiting Tunis at the Tunisia Tourism Board site.

Tunisia Palace Hotel, Tunis - Fine small hotel in the centre of Tunis