Things To Do
in Kelaa Kebira

A thin pastry parcel usually filled with egg, tuna and parsley then fried—common at cafés and street vendors; best eaten immediately while crispy.

Must-Try!

Fresh-caught fish grilled with olive oil and lemon; available at seaside stalls and small restaurants in nearby fishing villages.

A warm chickpea soup with cumin and garlic, often topped with stale bread and a drizzle of olive oil—popular for a hearty, inexpensive meal.

Steamed semolina with vegetables and sometimes fish or lamb; traditional on Fridays and special occasions.

The town market is where locals buy produce, olives, spices and fresh bread; try small fried pastries, olives, dates and seasonal fruits while exploring stalls.

Basic grills near the harbor selling the day's catch; popular for a simple, fresh meal and direct contact with local fishers.

Polite greetings are important—shake hands (men with men), say ‘Aslema’ or ‘Salam’ and use formalities; ask before photographing people, especially women.

Dress modestly in public—avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in conservative or rural areas; women may choose a scarf in religious settings but it is generally not required.

During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect; many businesses have reduced hours and social life shifts to evenings.

If invited into a home, bring a small gift and accept offered refreshments; remove shoes if requested and show appreciation for local hospitality.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: small change (5–10% or rounding up) for restaurants and cafés, a few dinars for helpful porters or taxi drivers. For small purchases or street food, tipping is not expected but leaving small change is polite.

Tunisian dinar (TND) is the local currency. Cash is king in smaller towns; major cards (Visa/Mastercard) may work at larger hotels or restaurants but expect limited card acceptance in Kelaa Kebira itself. ATMs are available in regional centers—carry enough cash for market purchases and taxis.

One of the best times to visit: mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, pleasant sea breezes and active markets; good for hiking and photography.

Hot and sunny, especially July–August, with warm Mediterranean sea ideal for swimming; inland afternoons can be very warm—stay hydrated and seek shade mid-day.

Mild weather with cooler evenings, harvest season for olives and grapes; fewer tourists and good conditions for both beach and countryside activities.

Mild but wetter; quiet off-season, cooler evenings and occasional rain—some tourist services may be reduced but prices are lower and cultural life continues.

Vegetarian options are available (couscous with veggies, salads, lablabi) but menus are meat/seafood-heavy; communicate clearly (in French or Arabic) and favor vegetable-based dishes, markets and bakeries.

Vegan choices exist but are limited—staples like bread, olives, salads, legumes and roasted vegetables work; ask about butter/eggs in traditional preparations.

Traditional Tunisian cuisine uses many wheat-based items (bread, brik, couscous); fresh fish, salads and grilled meats can be safe options, but check for flour-based thickeners and cross-contamination.

Most local meat is halal by default in Tunisia; if halal certification matters, ask the restaurant or favor seafood and vegetarian dishes.