Tunisia: The Mediterranean’s Best Kept Secret for 2026
- sarah williams
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
If you’ve been scrolling through your feed lately and noticed a sudden influx of turquoise bays, ancient Roman arches, and sweeping desert dunes that look like they belong on a different planet, you aren’t imagining it. Tunisia is officially having a "moment."
In fact, it’s more than a moment: it’s a movement. By the end of 2026, Tunisia is expected to have surpassed a staggering 11 million annual visitors, and honestly? It’s about time. For years, this North African gem sat quietly in the shadow of its Mediterranean neighbours, but savvy travellers have finally caught on to the secret: Tunisia offers the history of Italy, the beaches of Greece, and the adventure of Morocco, all while offering some of the best value for money you’ll find anywhere in the world.
As your personaltravelconsultant, I’ve been keeping a close eye on this trend. Whether you’re after a high-end luxuryholidays experience, a culturally rich familyholidays trip, or a rugged adventureholidays escape, Tunisia in 2026 is where you need to be.
Let’s dive into why this destination should be at the very top of your list.
1. The Blue-and-White Dream: Sidi Bou Said
If there is one place in Tunisia that will make your Instagram followers green with envy, it’s Sidi Bou Said. Perched high on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Tunis, this village is a breathtaking mosaic of whitewashed walls and vibrant "Tunisian blue" doors and shutters.
Walking through its cobblestone streets, you’ll be hit by the scent of jasmine and the sight of overflowing bougainvillaea. It feels less like a busy tourist hub and more like a living painting. I always recommend grabbing a mint tea with pine nuts at the famous Café des Délices. The view over the marina is enough to make you want to miss your flight home.
Sarah’s Tip: Don't just do a whistle-stop tour. Let me book you a boutique stay in one of the traditional dar (guesthouse) buildings so you can experience the village after the day-trippers have left.
2. Roman Glory at El Jem
Think you need to go to Rome to see a world-class colosseum? Think again. The Amphitheatre of El Jem is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins on the planet. It’s actually more intact than the Colosseum in Rome, and the best part? You can actually explore the underground tunnels where gladiators and lions once waited.
Standing in the centre of that arena as the sun hits the golden stone is a "hair-standing-on-end" kind of moment. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in history, and because it’s a bit further inland, it still feels like a discovery.
3. A Galaxy Far, Far Away: The Sahara & Star Wars
For the movie buffs and adventure seekers, the Tunisian south is legendary. This is the land of the Sahara Desert, and it is every bit as epic as you imagine.
But Tunisia has a secret claim to fame: it’s the original home of Star Wars. You can visit the actual film sets in Tozeur (the desert city of Mos Espa) and even stay in a "troglodyte" hotel in Matmata, which served as the Lars Homestead (Luke Skywalker's childhood home).
Even if you don’t know a Wookiee from a Wampa, the landscape here is life-changing. From camel treks across the rolling dunes of Douz to 4x4 adventures through the mountain oases of Chebika, it’s the ultimate adventureholidays territory.
4. The Bustling Medinas: Tunis and Sousse
If you want to feel the heartbeat of the country, you have to get lost in the Medinas. The Tunis Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a dizzying maze of souks, mosques, and palaces.
You’ll find everything here: hand-woven carpets, intricate brass lamps, and enough spices to fill a warehouse. It’s loud, it’s colourful, and it’s completely intoxicating. Sousse also boasts a magnificent Medina right by the sea, where the ancient fortress (the Ribat) offers incredible views over the harbour.
5. Sun, Sea, and "The Island of Dreams"
We can't talk about Tunisia without mentioning the beaches. If you’re looking for winter-sun or a classic summer coastal escape, you’re spoilt for choice:
Hammamet: The garden city, famous for its jasmine-scented air and golden sands.
Port El Kantaoui: A purpose-built chic resort with a beautiful marina, perfect for families.
Djerba: Known as the "Island of Dreams," this is where you go for true relaxation. It has a unique mix of Berber, Arab, and Jewish heritage, stunning white-sand beaches, and some of the best luxuryholidays resorts in North Africa.
6. A Foodie's Paradise
Forget what you think you know about holiday food. Tunisian cuisine is a bold, spicy, and delicious fusion of Mediterranean and African flavours.
You have to try:
Brik: A thin, crispy pastry deep-fried with a whole egg inside. The goal is to eat it without the yolk running down your chin (it’s harder than it looks!).
Couscous: The national dish, often served with tender lamb or fresh fish and a mountain of vegetables.
Harissa: The "national condiment." It’s a fiery chili paste that Tunisians put on everything. Be careful: it’s got a kick!
When is the Best Time to Visit?
To get the most out of your trip, timing is everything.
Spring (March to May): My personal favourite. The weather is warm but perfect for exploring ruins and the desert, and the flowers are in full bloom.
Autumn (September to November): The sea is still warm from the summer sun, but the intense heat has faded, making it ideal for a mix of beach and culture.
Winter: Great for winter-sun in the desert, though the coastal areas can be a bit chilly.
Why Book Your Tunisia Adventure With Me?
You could spend hours scouring the internet trying to figure out which desert camp is authentic and which hotel has the best beach. Or, you could let me handle it.
As a personaltravelconsultant with over 20 years in the industry, I don’t just book "package deals." I create journeys.
Many people fall into the "all-inclusive trap" in Tunisia, staying within the walls of a resort and missing the soul of the country. When you book with me, I use my expertise to add those local gems: the private guide for El Jem, the boutique guesthouse in Sidi Bou Said, or the secret spot for the best Brik in Tunis.
Plus, my service is a freeservice to you! You get my 24/7 support, my industry connections, and a completely personalservice for the same price (or often less!) than booking it yourself online.
I handle the logistics, the transfers, and the fine print so that you can just focus on which blue door you’re going to pose in front of next.
Ready to discover the Mediterranean’s best-kept secret?
Whether it's a family adventure to the Star Wars sets or a romantic luxury escape to Djerba, let’s make it happen.
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