Why Drive Through Tunisia?
Tunisia is a surprisingly compact country, and its diversity is best appreciated behind the wheel. Within a few hours' drive from Hammamet, you can move from Mediterranean beaches to Roman ruins, from mountain villages to the edge of the Sahara. Roads are generally well-maintained, distances are manageable, and fuel is affordable. A self-drive holiday lets you create your own schedule and discover places that most tourists never see.
Route 1: The Cap Bon Loop (Half Day)
Starting from Hammamet, head north along the coast to Nabeul, the pottery capital of Tunisia. Continue to Kelibia, home to a stunning clifftop fortress and some of the best beaches in the country. Drive through the vineyards of Grombalia on your return. Total distance: about 120 km.
- Nabeul pottery workshops
- Kelibia fortress and beach
- Korbous hot springs
- Grombalia vineyards
Route 2: Tunis, Sidi Bou Said & Carthage (Full Day)
Take the motorway north to Tunis (about 1 hour). Visit the famous Bardo Museum, home to the world's largest collection of Roman mosaics. Then head to Carthage to walk among the ancient Punic and Roman ruins. End the day in Sidi Bou Said, the iconic blue-and-white village perched above the Mediterranean, with a mint tea at Cafe des Nattes. Total distance: approximately 160 km round trip.
- Bardo Museum
- Carthage archaeological site (UNESCO)
- Sidi Bou Said village
- Tunis Medina (UNESCO)
Route 3: El Jem & Sousse (Full Day)
Head south along the coast to Sousse (about 1 hour), where you can explore the UNESCO-listed medina and the Ribat fortress. Continue to El Jem (another 1 hour) to see the magnificent Roman amphitheatre -- one of the best-preserved in the world, rivalling the Colosseum in Rome. Total distance: about 250 km round trip.
- Sousse Medina and Ribat (UNESCO)
- El Jem amphitheatre (UNESCO)
- Port El Kantaoui marina
Route 4: Dougga & the North-West (Full Day)
For history lovers, the drive to Dougga (about 2.5 hours west of Hammamet) is absolutely worth it. This UNESCO site is considered the best-preserved Roman city in North Africa, with a stunning theatre, temples, and baths. On the way back, stop at Bulla Regia to see the unique underground Roman villas. Total distance: about 380 km round trip.
Route 5: The Sahara Adventure (2-3 Days)
For the ultimate road trip, drive south towards the Sahara. Pass through Kairouan (the holy city with its Great Mosque), cross the Chott El Jerid salt lake, and explore the mountain oases of Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides. Continue to Douz, the "gateway to the Sahara," where you can take a camel ride into the dunes. Total distance: approximately 800 km round trip. We recommend at least 2 nights to enjoy this route without rushing.
- Kairouan Great Mosque (UNESCO)
- Chott El Jerid salt lake
- Chebika and Tamerza mountain oases
- Tozeur palm groves
- Douz and the Sahara dunes
Practical Driving Tips
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on open roads, 110 km/h on motorways.
- Fuel: petrol stations are plentiful along major routes. Fill up before heading to remote southern areas.
- Tolls: the A1 motorway (Tunis-Sousse-Sfax) has tolls, but they are very affordable (a few dinars).
- Night driving: avoid driving at night in rural areas due to poorly lit roads and occasional livestock on the road.
- GPS: Google Maps works well in Tunisia. Download offline maps before your trip as a precaution.
Rent Your Road Trip Car
Whether you are planning a quick coastal loop or an epic Sahara adventure, Leasys Rent A Car has the right vehicle for your Tunisian road trip. All our cars come with unlimited mileage, so you can drive as far as you like without extra charges. Book on WhatsApp and start exploring.