Tunis travel guide

A relaxing city with a distinct French taste

Decidedly north African in flavor but with a heavy French influence, Tunis is the capital of Tunisia and a relaxing town just inland from the Mediterranean coast. A taxi ride from the airport to the city center should cost less than eight Tunisian dinars, but the drivers are notorious for overcharging; disbelieve claims that the meter is "broken." A wide variety of cafes dot Avenue Habib Bourguiba, the main thoroughfare in Tunis, making it a great place for people watching on a busy afternoon. Follow the avenue to the main market (medina or casbah) where the Great Mosque lies in amidst crowded alleyways and bustling little shopping stalls, but keep an eye on your belongings; touts and pickpockets prey on the many inexperienced visitors to the crowded area. Sponsored walking tours are a good option to keep these dangers at bay -- book one ahead of time at the tourist office. Tunis has an excellent museum dedicated entirely to Roman mosaics called the Bardo, and it is covered from floor to ceiling with some of the most impressive mosaics to be seen anywhere. This is quite possibly the best place in the world to see mosaics, and any visitor will likely be overwhelmed by the vast quantities available. Even in the winter, Tunis maintains a pleasant climate, though it can get cold enough for a jacket. Options for shopping are excellent, with local souvenirs of olive oil and wine being the most popular.