Getting Around Tunis

The Tunis Metro Leger (light rail) has six lines covering the city center, suburbs, and key areas. It is inexpensive and runs frequently during the day. For the charming coastal villages of Sidi Bou Said and La Marsa, take the TGM commuter train from Tunis Marine station — it runs along the coast and costs under a dinar. Within the old Medina, walking is the only real option as streets are narrow and car-free. Yellow taxis are plentiful outside the Medina.

Louage Travel Between Cities

Louages are the backbone of Tunisian intercity travel. These shared minivans (usually white with a colored stripe indicating the region) depart from dedicated stations in each city and leave once they are full — no fixed schedule, no booking required. They are faster than trains and buses, and remarkably cheap. Tunis to Sousse costs about TND 10 per seat. The main Tunis louage stations are Bab Saadoun (north) and Bab Alioua (south). Arrive early in the morning for the most frequent departures.

Practical Tips

• French is widely spoken alongside Arabic — basic French phrases go a long way
• ATMs are widely available in cities; carry cash for small towns, markets, and louage fares
• Bargaining is expected in souks and markets; start at about 40-50% of the asking price
• Tunisia uses the Tunisian Dinar (TND) which cannot be exchanged outside the country — spend or convert before departing
• The southern desert (Tozeur, Douz) requires a rental car or organized tour; public transport options are limited