Monastir – Travel Guide
With its golden beaches and sapphire blue sea, its medieval monuments and its charming marina, Monastir offers one of the most attractive faces of Tunisia. The city’s shores offer a variety of beaches all along a straight, low-lying coastline. This shoreline, the tourism industry has developed and, with adjacent Saqanis (Skanes), forms a fashionable beach resort complex. Suntan, catamaran, scuba, jet-ski, golf – there is no shortage of popular activities that draw visitors to beautiful Monastir.
All about Monastir
Getting Around Monastir
By Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Monastir and are a convenient way to get around the city. Make sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey or ensure that the meter is used.
By Bus
Public buses operate in Monastir and connect various parts of the city. They are an affordable option, but the schedule may not always be as frequent.
By Walking
Monastir is very walkable and is a delight to simply wander around and explore.
Monastir FAQ
How do I get to Monastir?
The city is served by an international airport: Monastir Habib Bourguiba Airport (MIR). There are flights available from many European capitals. Keep in mind that direct flights are only available in certain seasons. At the airport, you’ll find both yellow and white taxis available. The white taxis are designed for tourists and tend to offer a higher level of comfort, for that reason, they are more expensive than the yellow ones.
The Monastir railway station (Gare Habib Bourguiba Monastir). There are regular train services to Tunis and Sousse to the north and Mahidia to the south. The railway station is located in the city center and just a short walk to the Ribat.
There are regular bus services to Sousse. The Bus station is located near the Medina. A louage to Sousse takes about 20 minutes and costs around 2.1 DT. It departs just outside the Medina walls next to the train station.
If you are renting a car, from Tunis, the ride to Monastir is around 2 hours.
How do I get around Monastir?
The distance between the Medina, Ribat and Marina are small enough to be covered on foot. Taxis for longer distances within the city can be found everywhere and are inexpensive (less than around DT3 a trip within the city).
Bicycle rentals are available as well.
Is Monastir a safe city?
Crime isn’t a big concern in Monastir, however, you are still advised to take the usual precautions with your valuables when out and about, especially in crowded areas. Local people are generally respectful and welcoming towards foreign visitors. We advise you not to drink the tap water.
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 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.
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More About Monastir
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?
Due to the convergence of two climate zones, the Mediterranean and desert climates, Tunisia often experiences more than 300 days with sunshine annually. The Mediterranean region north of Monastir is known for its dry and sweltering summers. In June, the daily average high is 85°F.
The average daytime temperature is around 86°F with more than 10 hours of sunshine. In July and August, daytime temperatures frequently get above 90°F.
In October, temperatures start to drop, with daytime highs ranging from 70°F to 80°F. Monastir experiences wintertime lows of about 60°F. there are occasionally sunny days interspersed with chilly, rainy, and windy ones.
The best months to visit Monastir are April, May and June. This period marks the beginning of summer break, so the prices are lower than the hot season’s. Also, it’s at this time that the city starts to come alive.
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 has a better grasp of the language, we suggest you learn a few French phrases and pick up 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.
What is the nightlife like in Monastir?
Most of the entertainment is hotel-based in Monastir. You will find a wide range of western-style bars and discos to enjoy in the evening that include Arabian feasts and floor shows. For a livelier nightlife scene, head to the neighboring resort of Sousse (Skanes area).
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
If you have an urgent medical issue, consider calling the local emergency number (190 in Tunisia) for immediate assistance.
Top Attractions
Ribat of Monastir
Historic fortress dating back to 796 CE, the Ribat served as a defensive structure and a center for Islamic learning.
Habib Bourguiba Mausoleum
The final resting place of Tunisia’s first president, this mausoleum is renowned for its golden dome and intricate marble work.
Monastir Beaches
Stretching along the coastline, these sandy shores offer relaxation and water sports activities for visitors.
Great Mosque of Monastir
Established in the 9th century, this mosque is notable for its stone facades and absence of a dome over the mihrab.
Unique Experiences
Dine at Monastir Marina.
Savor fresh seafood and Tunisian cuisine at waterfront restaurants overlooking the marina. Enjoy a leisurely meal while watching yachts and boats dock in the harbor.
Wander Through the Monastir Medina.
Stroll through the bustling souks, where you can purchase traditional handicrafts like ceramics, leather goods, and jewelry. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage of the old town.
What to expect while traveling
