SOUSSE - FAQ`S

How do I get from the airport to my hotel?

Flights arrive at the Tunis-Carthage International Airport, located in the capital city of Tunis, Tunisia, which is well connected to the rest of the country. It's about 85 miles from Tunis to Sousse.

By Car: Take the A1 motorway southbound from Tunis, and you'll arrive in Sousse in about 90 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to have a valid driver's license and insurance if you plan to rent a car. Having a GPS or navigation app can be helpful, as road signs are in Arabic and French.

By Train: Tunisia's railway network provides a convenient way to travel to Sousse. The train station is located at Tunis Gare Centrale, and the journey offers beautiful coastal views. Trains are generally safe and reliable. Remember to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. The train journey from Tunis to Sousse is about 2 hours.

By Louage: For an authentic Tunisian experience, take a louage (shared taxis) to Sousse. Louages are popular among locals and offer an economical means of travel. Louage stations are easy to find in major cities, including Tunis. You can catch your louage at the Moncif Bey station. Make sure to get the louage from the station. Some louage drivers may try to convince you to take their ride from outside the station. Please, refuse these requests and enter the station to get an officially certified one. The journey from Tunis to Sousse takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on stops.

By Bus: Traveling by bus is budget-friendly and comfortable. The National Coach Company (SNTRI) operates long-distance buses connecting major Tunisian cities. Catch a bus at the central station "Bab Alioua" in Tunis. You can check the official website to learn more about the schedule. The journey takes approximately 2 - 2.5 hours. Remember to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

What are my transportation options in Sousse?

Getting around in Sousse can be interesting. Taxis are available and efficient, especially for shorter distances within the city. Taxis in Sousse do use a meter, at least when you hail them in the city center. Beware though, outside the city, taxis will try to overcharge you on almost every journey and refuse to put the meter on. When entering the taxi, make sure the driver uses and restores the meter - gently gesturing to them will usually work. If a driver refuses to use the meter, just leave the car and find another driver. Taxis are yellow and have a taxi license sticker on the windshield.

Metro leger (Light rail): Sousse's light rail system, the Metro leger, connects Sousse with the neighboring towns of Monastir and Mahdia. It's a good option for longer distances within the city and to nearby areas.

Buses: The bus system in Sousse can get you to various parts of the city and is very affordable. However, It might be less comfortable and more time-consuming than taxis.

Is Tunis a walking city?

Walking the city center is the perfect way to get around, Sousseis compact and many attractions, especially around the Medina and the beach areas, are within easy walking distance.

Is Sousse a dangerous city?

Overall, Sousse is considered a relatively safe destination for tourists. However, as with any location, it's important to be aware of potential risks and take steps to protect yourself. Sousse is a bustling city with many motorbikes and scooters on the road, so visitors should exercise caution when crossing streets and be aware of their surroundings.

Pickpocking and petty theft can be a concern in busy areas such as markets and tourist hotspots, so visitors should keep their valuables secure and be aware fo their surroundings at all times. The areas around the medina, the city center and the beaches are considered safe and heavily patrolled by the police.

What is the currency of Tunisia?

Tunisian Dinar (TND; the symbol DT is also used commonly within Tunisia). Notes are in denominations of TND 50, 30, 20, 10 and 5 millimes. Coins are in the denominations of TND 1, 5, 10 dinars, as well as 5, 10, 20, 50 and 500 millimes.

You can exchange money at the airport or at your hotel. There are several ATMs, but some seem to struggle with international cards. When you change money over you will be given a printed receipt of the transaction, keep this as when you leave the country you can change your money back. It will not be accepted unless you provide a receipt of a transaction. ATM receipts are not a valid receipt to change dinars to foreign currency.

ATMs are widely available in tourist resorts. Most ATMs are linked to the Visa network through a few, also accept Maestro. It is important to always have a small emergency cash fund at hand when traveling in Tunisia for the times when the ATM rejects your card, or simply doesn't work, which can be easily happen, especially once you're away from the coastal resort areas.

Note: The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, but large amounts should be declared and the amount exported must not exceed that declared upon arrival.

Is tipping required in Tunisia?

Tipping is not required, but waiters and taxi drivers are usually tipped a few coins; waiters in tourist restaurants are accustomed to 10%.

What is the weather like? When is the best time to visit?

Timing can make a big difference in your experience. For the best visit, consider traveling during spring (March to May) or Fall (September to November). With temperatures ranging from 65 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit, the weather is pleasantly warm, ideal for sightseeing and beach activities. Spring brings colorful blooms, while fall offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer tourists. If you prefer hotter temperatures and busy beaches, summer )June to August) is the peak season. On the other hand, winter (December to February) offers a quieter atmosphere. Keep in mind the dates of Ramadan, respecting local customs during this holy month.

What is the language in Tunisia?

French and Arabic are the official languages of Tunisia. Most people in the city speak French well. English is scarcely spoken and while the younger generation have a better grasp of the language, we suggest you learn a few French phrases and pickup an English-French guidebook or phone app and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.

What is the food like?

Tunisian food combines Arabic, Berber, European and Middle Eastern elements. It's a blend between Mediterranean and desert-dweller cuisines. Dishes are cooked with olive oil, spiced with aniseed, coriander, cumin, caraway, cinnamon or saffron are flavored with mint, orange blossom, or rose water. Many are accompanied by harissa, a spicy chili and garlic condiment.

The coastal areas offer fresh seafood. Couscous with various meat, vegetables, and spices are the main fare here. Add some spicy harissa sauce, which the Tunisians are known for, and enjoy! Street food culture is big throughout the city, with shawarma shops everywhere - thin slices of beef or chicken in a wrap with veggies, spices, and harissa.

Tuna is another common food throughout Tunisia. It is eaten with cheese in a wrap, or add it's added to their shawarma sandwiches.

Is it safe to drink the water in Sousse?

Drinking tap water in Sousse is generally not advised. While the water may be treated and safe for locals, it contains different minerals and bacteria than what overseas visitors are used to, thus causing digestive issues or illness.

What is the nightlife like in Sousse?

Sousse is considered one of the most bustling and lively resorts in Tunisia. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful coastline at one of the many beachfront cafes and bars where you can relax while taking in the sea views. For something more lively, check out one of the several nightclubs and discos that cater to a more energetic and music-filled atmosphere. Many of the hotels and resorts also offer entertainment with themed parties, live music, and dance performances. and for a more low-key atmosphere, check out the Medina at night, there are many charming cafes and restaurants that stay open into the evening.

What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?

The emergency/ambulance phone number in Tunisia is 190. Ambulance arrival times can be delayed and the service is not available in more rural areas.