Car hire in Tunisia

Few countries are more scenic than Tunisia, with its Mediterranean coastline. Whether just cruising around the capital of Tunis, the popular southern resort of Djebra or historical haunts like Kairouan, car hire in Tunisia from reliable big names such as Budget and Hertz will help you save time and make your Tunisian holiday more intimate. Compare car hire rates right here and get your Tunisian holiday off to a great start.

Car hire driving tips in Tunisia

As the public transport in this charismatic North African country is sometimes scarce, renting a car provides the best way to get around while fully immersing yourself in the ‘real’ Tunisia. Although driving conditions outside of the main tourist resorts, where roads are usually good, can be challenging, having your own vehicle offers unparalleled access to all the best attractions.

Need to know essentials

Driving licenses: foreign drivers are required to hold an International Driving Permit as well as a passport that is valid for 12 months.

Which side does Tunisia drive on: the left.

Speed limits:

Highways and dual carriageways (outside urban areas): 110kph

National or provincial roads: 90kph

Local roads: 90kph

Urban roads: 50kph

Alcohol limits: check locally regards alcohol limits. The strictest penalty for drink driving is 10 years’ imprisonment.

Driving age: 18 years (21 years if you wish to hire a car).

Seatbelts: the wearing of a seatbelt is mandatory at all times for both driver and passengers.

Mobile phones and GPS: using a mobile phone behind the wheel in Tunisia is prohibited. Offenders may face an on-the-spot fine or prison time. GPS is of little use in Tunisia as the maps rarely contain sufficient detail.

Cost of fuel in Tunisia: due to political instability in the region, the price of fuel is subject to considerable fluctuation. Current petrol and diesel prices in Tunisia are considerably cheaper than in the UK.

Car hire and fuel payment: Tunisia car rental companies accept most credit cards, but debit cards may be refused. Petrol can be paid for by credit card at many urban locations, but cash is best in rural locations.

Insurance: most rentals come with third-party insurance; however, it pays to have full cover and minimal excess in Tunisia.

Traffic and parking: parking can be found easily in the newly-developed or renovated tourism-driven parts of Tunisia. However, some of the old towns and cities have few parking spaces. Traffic can be erratic in cities, with local drivers sometimes ignoring the road rules. Stick to the right-hand side slow lane and beware of pedestrians. On desert roads there is little in the way of traffic.

Our travel editor’s recommended drives

Tunis to Monastir – drive south along the eastern coast of the country, from the capital to one of its most famous historical cities, Monastir.

Jebil National Park – set a few days aside to explore the country’s most famous and biggest national park, full of memorable scenery.

Zarziz to Djebra – from one of the south’s best known coastal destinations to its unparalleled, most popular island.

Tunisia travel tips

Tunisia remains one of North Africa's best places to holiday despite occasional political turmoil. While it is advised to stick to the country's three main highways, travel around the country is relatively safe and straight forward.

Tunisia weather and tourist seasons

Tunisia has three varying types of climate. While a Mediterranean climate is experienced in its northern reaches, semi-arid weather can be found in the centre. The south has desert conditions. In summer, from June until September, temperatures of around 30°C. are experienced almost daily, while the rainy season takes hold from October until May. Winter is the most popular time to visit. Car rental and hotel reservations should be made well in advance during this period to avoid disappointment.

Tunisia contact numbers (+216)

Emergency Services – 197 (in Arabic or French)

Traffic news/weather/road accidents – 190

British Consular Emergency Services – 216 71 108 700

British Embassy – 216 71 108 700

US Embassy – 216 71 107 000

Irish Embassy – 216 71 906 879

Canadian Embassy – 216 71 268-080

Australian Embassy – 216 1 796-577

Holidays and festivals

National holidays in Tunisia are mainly tied to Islam, with Western tourists not really advised to travel during Ramadan given how difficult getting around is at this time. In chronological order, the holidays in Tunisia are New Year’s Day, Mouled (Prophet’s Birthday, 15 February), Independence Day (20 March), which is followed by Youth Day, Martyrs’ Day (9 April), Labour Day (2 May), Republic Day (25 July), Women’s Day (13 August), Eid-al-Fitr to mark the end of Ramadan (30 August), Eid-al-Idha (6 November), New Era Day (7 November) and Islamic New Year (26 November).

Money matters

Tunisia uses the dinar as its currency, with exchange outlets, banks and ATMs easy to find in large cities such as Tunis or tourist areas. It is best to use ATMs during daylight hours only and to avoid exchanging currency on the street however appealing the rates may be.

Health and safety

Before heading to Tunisia, be sure to contact your doctor about required vaccinations. Inoculations against hepatitis and typhoid are often recommended. Be sure to drink plenty of water over the course of the day in order to avoid dehydration, always check the food you are about to eat has been thoroughly cooked and apply sun cream before leaving your accommodation.

Fitting in…

Tunisia is a predominantly Muslim country, meaning that dress codes are important – especially for females. As a general rule, the farther south you travel, the more conservative society becomes. Showing a lot of skin is less frowned upon on the beaches and in hotel complexes. Regardless of where you are, refrain from discussing politics.

Visas for Tunisia

Travellers from Britain and most Western countries can stay in Tunisia for 90 days without a visa. Those that have less than six months of validity left on their passport might encounter difficulties getting into the country.

Electricity

If you are to purchase electronic goods or bring your own, the voltage is 230 Volts and 50 Hertz, with two round-pin sockets found all over the country.

Business hours

Tunisian business hours typically run from 09:00 to 18:00, although this can vary depending on the city. In Tunis, the capital, expect some places to stay open 24 hours.

Helpful phrases

Shukran - Thank you

La shukran - No thank you

Aaslemma - Hello

Bislemma - Goodbye

Min fadhlik - Please

Samahhni - Sorry

Kadech yelzemni nkhallas? - How much is this?

Resources online

www.cometotunisia.co.uk/

www.wikitravel.org

www.fco.gov.uk/en/tunisia