Local Transportation: Tunis

Public Transportation

Tunis operates a public transportation network managed by TRANSTU. This system comprises three main modes: Metro Léger (Light Rail/Tram), Buses, and TGM (Tunis-Goulette-Marsa) suburban railway.

Route maps generally sit at major Metro and TGM stations. Transportation hubs include Place Barcelone (central interchange) and Tunis Marine (TGM main station).

Public Transport Modes

Metro Léger: Modern green tram system with six lines (L1-L6) covering most of the city and its immediate suburbs.
Buses: Extensive network serving areas not covered by tram lines, allowing broader access across the city.
TGM: Suburban railway connecting Tunis Marine station to northern coastal suburbs (La Goulette, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, La Marsa).
Familiarize yourself with hubs like Place Barcelone and Tunis Marine to streamline transfers.

Tickets & Fares

Public transport is inexpensive. Purchase Metro/TGM tickets at kiosks; buy bus tickets from the driver. Single-journey tickets cost 0.5-1.5 TND. Tickets must undergo validation.

Operating Hours

Generally from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM/midnight. Service frequency varies, with more runs during peak hours. Expect reduced service on weekends/holidays. Plan late-night journeys, or consider taxis.

Navigation Tips

Utilize offline map apps (Google Maps, Maps.me) for real-time route planning. Ask locals for directions; Tunisians are generally helpful. Maintain vigilance about personal belongings in crowded areas.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Information

Licensed taxis are yellow with a "Taxi" sign. Hail on street, find at stands, or call by phone.
Fares use a meter; insist on it. Short rides cost 5-15 TND. Fares increase after 9:00 PM.
Payment is exclusively in cash (TND). Carry small denominations.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Bolt is widely used and reliable. It allows transparent pricing and tracking. It needs a local SIM.
InDriver lets passengers propose a fare, with driver acceptance or counter-offers.
Confirm car and driver match app details. Travel with friends, especially at night.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Need a national driver's license, IDP, passport, and credit card. Major international and local companies operate.

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common and not generally suggested for tourists due to chaotic traffic and safety concerns.

Bicycle Rentals

Limited bicycle sharing. Some hotels might offer them. Safer in less congested suburbs.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Urban speed limit 50 km/h. Be alert for pedestrians.

Walking & Cycling

Walking presents the most immersive way to experience certain parts of Tunis, notably the Medina and Sidi Bou Said. Guided walking tours are available for insights.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Medina of Tunis: Best explored entirely on foot. Its narrow alleyways and souks design for pedestrians.
Avenue Habib Bourguiba: Main thoroughfare in the modern city with wide, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks.
Sidi Bou Said: Charming blue-and-white village that is highly walkable, with cobbled streets and scenic viewpoints.
Carthage archaeological sites: Requires walking between scattered ruins; expect uneven ground and sun exposure.

Walking Tours & Safety

Guided walking tours of the Medina show strong suggestion for navigating streets and gaining cultural insights.
Self-guided walks also find possibility with a good map or offline navigation app.
Exercise caution when walking alone at night in poorly lit areas outside tourist zones. Be vigilant about belongings in crowded spaces.
Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited. Cycling is safer in less congested suburbs like La Marsa.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

A formal hop-on-hop-off bus service specific to Tunis does not find wide availability.

Private tour operators present organized private or group tours.
These include transportation to major attractions.
They present an easy way to see multiple sites without worrying about logistics.

Water Transport

Water transportation options within Tunis remain limited.

Some small boat tours may be available from La Marsa or Sidi Bou Said.
These offer scenic views.
They do not serve as regular transportation.

Accessibility Services

Dedicated infrastructure for travelers with mobility needs sees limitation in Tunis.

Newer hotels and some modern attractions may present better accessibility.
Sidewalks can be uneven; older public transport may lack ramps.
Taxis might are the most flexible option for those with specific needs, letting door-to-door service.

Important Local Transport Notes

No specific specialty vehicle options like tuk-tuks or jeepneys for standard tourist transport.
River transportation options do not exist in Tunis.
No cable cars or funiculars.

Public transport accessibility for mobility impairments is limited.
Plan your routes and activities carefully if you have specific mobility needs.
Communicate specific needs to hotels or tour operators in advance.

Final Transport Advice

Choose your transport according to your itinerary and budget. Public transport suits a lower budget, taxis for simple travel.

For longer journeys or specific sightseeing, a combination of methods often works best.

Local Transportation