Things To Do
in Ben Arous
Ben Arous is a coastal governorate just south of Tunis, forming part of the greater Tunis metropolitan area. The landscape blends urban outskirts, pine forests, and agricultural pockets, with vineyards around Mornag and shoreline towns along the Gulf of Tunis. The area functions as both a residential hub and an industrial corridor with markets, mosques, and cafes that reflect a mix of traditional Tunisian life and modern city culture.
Its proximity to Carthage and Sidi Bou Said makes it a convenient base for exploring northern Tunisia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Medina of Tunis, where you can wander through the narrow winding streets lined with colorful souks. As the sun rises, the air is filled with the scents of spices and freshly baked bread from local bakeries. Be sure to visit the stunning Al-Zaytuna Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the city, and take in its intricate architecture.
After lunch at a traditional Tunisian restaurant, head to the Bardo National Museum, home to an extensive collection of Roman mosaics and artifacts. Spend time admiring the beautiful displays that reflect Tunisia's rich history and cultural heritage. The museum’s serene gardens provide a perfect spot for a brief rest before continuing your exploration.
As the sun sets, return to the Medina for an evening stroll, where the atmosphere becomes vibrant with local musicians and street performers. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city, savoring traditional dishes like couscous or brik. End your day with a cup of mint tea while watching the bustling nightlife unfold.
After breakfast, take a short drive to the picturesque coastal village of Sidi Bou Said, famous for its blue and white architecture. Spend your morning exploring the charming streets filled with art galleries and artisan shops, capturing the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Don't miss visiting the Ennejma Ezzahra, a beautiful palace that showcases Tunisian architecture and culture.
Enjoy lunch at a seaside café, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while overlooking the water. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the cliffside paths, soaking in the breathtaking views of the coastline and the vibrant bougainvillea. Consider visiting one of the local artisan workshops to learn about traditional crafts, such as pottery or mosaic making.
As evening approaches, return to the main square for a lively atmosphere filled with locals and tourists alike. Dine at a local restaurant, delighting in dishes like grilled fish or tagine, paired with a glass of local wine. Wrap up your day by enjoying a peaceful sunset from one of the scenic viewpoints overlooking the bay.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🚗1-way taxi ride within city | $3-8 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Tunis and major historic sites
- Delicious regional cuisine and diverse markets
- Good value for money and varied day trips
- Limited nightlife directly in Ben Arous
- Heavy traffic around peak hours near Tunis
- Summer heat can be intense for outdoor activities
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Chnoua esmouk?" - What is your name?
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlek" - Please
- "La shukran" - No thank you
Places to Visit in Ben Arous
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient ruins with sea views, olive groves, and archaeological mosaics—ideal for golden-hour photography.
Iconic blue-and-white houses perched above the Mediterranean, offering sweeping panoramas of the gulf.
Sunny boardwalks, boats in the harbor, and pastel façades along the water—perfect for sunset shots.
Colorful alleyways, markets, and historic gates providing rich texture and street photography opportunities.
Open-water horizons, fishing boats, and seaside activity scenes suitable for candid and portrait photography.
Food in Ben Arous
Ben Arous Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Tunisian staple: steamed semolina with tender lamb and a medley of vegetables. Best found in traditional family-run eateries around Hammam Lif and Ezzahra.
Must-Try!
A crisp, pastry-wrapped starter stuffed with egg, tuna, or occasionally cheese. A popular street-food favorite and common at casual cafes.
A warming chickpea soup served over day-old bread and spiced with harissa; widely available from street stalls and modest restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bright morning stalls offering olives, spices, fresh greens, and regional cheeses—great for sampling local produce.
Coastal market with fish, seafood, citrus fruits, and pastries; ideal for a waterfront lunch and photography at the harbor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a Salam and a handshake in many settings; dress modestly in public spaces, especially religious sites; avoid showing the soles of feet when seated.
Ask permission before photographing people. Be discreet in religious sites and avoid intrusive photography during prayer times.
Safety
Tipping in Ben Arous
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants or cafes, rounding up or leaving 5–10% is common. For taxi rides or guides, small tips (1–2 dinars) are appreciated.
The dinar (TND) is the local currency. Cash is widely used, especially in markets and small eateries. Credit cards are accepted in many urban businesses, but carry cash for markets and casual street vendors. ATMs are common in towns and airports.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry, with high humidity near the coast. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, carry water, use sunscreen, and seek shade in markets and museums.
Warm days and cooler nights; pleasant for outdoor exploration and wine-tasting tours in nearby rural areas.
Mild and rainy with occasional cooler spells; coastal storms can occur, so pack a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
Comfortable temperatures and flowering landscapes; ideal for hiking in Boukornine and exploring markets without the heat.
Ben Arous at Night
Hiking in Ben Arous
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested slopes and rocky ridges just outside the main city area; offers several hiking routes with scenic overlooks of the Gulf and surrounding plains.
Airports
How to reach Ben Arous by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; well connected to Ben Arous by road and rail connections; taxis and shuttle services are readily available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents and people who work in the greater Tunis area, with a young and growing urban population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across the region, with local teams and informal games in many neighborhoods.
Popular in schools and clubs; you’ll often see local games in community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ben Arous.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tunisia offers abundant vegetarian options such as couscous with vegetables, lentil soups, fricassée of chickpeas, salads, and grilled vegetables. Look for vegetable tagines and egg-based dishes to avoid meat-based broths.