Things To Do
in Monastir
Monastir is a sun-kissed coastal town in Tunisia known for its long sandy beaches, a landmark Ribat fortress, and a lively fishing port. The town blends ancient history with modern resort vibes, offering palm-lined promenades and picturesque Mediterranean views. Its location in the Sahel region makes day trips easy to Sousse and the Kerkennah Islands.
Expect welcoming hospitality, seafood-centered cuisine, and a relaxed atmosphere that suits both culture seekers and sun lovers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ribat of Monastir, an ancient fortress that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean. Wander through the narrow streets of the medina, where the scent of fresh pastries fills the air from local bakeries. Don't miss the chance to explore the impressive Bourguiba Mosque, which showcases magnificent Islamic architecture.
After a flavorful lunch at a traditional Tunisian restaurant, head to the Monastir Museum housed in the old kasbah. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and art of the region, including ancient mosaics and artifacts. Stroll along the serene waterfront promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling harbor.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood while listening to the gentle waves. After your meal, take a relaxing walk along the beach, soaking in the warm evening breeze and vibrant atmosphere. Cap off your night with a visit to a local café for traditional mint tea and pastries.
Begin your day at the stunning Skanes Beach, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Take part in some morning yoga on the beach to rejuvenate your body and mind while enjoying the beautiful sea view. Afterward, indulge in a delicious breakfast at a nearby beachside café, enjoying fresh fruit and local pastries.
Spend your afternoon trying out various water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, or windsurfing. Experienced instructors are available to guide you, ensuring a thrilling yet safe experience on the water. Take a break for lunch at a beachside shack, sampling local seafood and refreshing drinks.
As the sun begins to set, relax on the beach with a cocktail in hand, watching the horizon transform with vibrant colors. Enjoy a beach barbecue dinner, where you can mingle with locals and fellow travelers. End your day by joining a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Café coffee | $1-2 |
| 🥙Street food snack | $2-5 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🏖️Beach access | Free/low cost |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history at the Ribat and Medina
- Beautiful beaches and coast
- Warm hospitality and cuisine
- Tourist crowds in peak season
- Limited public transit beyond main towns
- Some restaurants can be pricey and varies in vegetarian options
- "Marḥaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Kam hatha?" - How much is this?
- "Min fadlik" - Please
Places to Visit in Monastir
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic fortress with sea views, ancient stonework, and sunset backdrops.
Long sandy coastline with clear turquoise water and expansive horizons ideal for wide-angle shots.
Harbor scenes with boats, reflections on the water, and evening lights.
Narrow lanes, blue doors, and market textures—perfect for street photography.
Food in Monastir
Monastir Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A crisp pastry filled with egg (and often tuna or cheese); a quintessential Tunisian snack found in markets and cafés.
Must-Try!
Couscous served with fresh fish and a tomato-based sauce, a staple in seaside restaurants.
A spicy tomato-pepper sauce with eggs and merguez or traditional lamb; hearty and popular for breakfast or dinner.
Grilled peppers, tomatoes, onions, and olive oil, often served with tuna or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional souk in the old town where you can sample brik, olives, fresh produce, and grilled seafood.
Stalls along the coast offering fresh fish, grills, and mint tea—great for quick bites and photography.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; in informal settings a light kiss on both cheeks may occur among friends. Use formal titles when addressing elders or in business contexts.
Modest dress is respectful, especially when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in such settings.
Safety
Tipping in Monastir
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in nicer restaurants if service is good; smaller tips in cafés and for street vendors.
Credit cards are commonly accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; carry cash for markets, street vendors, and small cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with peak beach crowds; carry sun protection and stay hydrated. Expect higher prices and more outdoor events.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; fewer crowds and affordable rates; good for cultural sites without the heat.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming greenery; ideal for outdoor exploring and photography.
Warm days and cooler evenings; sea remains comfortable for swimming and long seaside walks.
Monastir at Night
Hiking in Monastir
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy coastal trails offering sea views and photo opportunities along the shoreline.
Short day trips from Monastir for mild elevation and panoramic sea vistas.
Airports
How to reach Monastir by plane.
Main gateway to Monastir; located a short drive from the city center with taxis, shuttles, and car hire options available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Arabic-speaking with strong French influence; tourism brings a mix of international visitors and expatriates along the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular locally; matches and bars show games year-round.
Swimming, snorkeling, and beach volleyball are common along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monastir.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, focus on vegetable tagines, bean stews, couscous with vegetables, grilled vegetables, salads, and dairy or eggs for protein; ask for no meat stock and clearly request no fish stock if needed.