Where to Stay in Tunisia: From Budget Stays to Luxury Hotels

Tunisia is a unique destination, and finding a place to stay can greatly influence your experience. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or feel like splurging on a luxury stay, Tunisia offers options for all travelers. From lush hotels on the Mediterranean coast to cozy rooms in the bustling streets of the medinas, you’ll find something that fits your style and budget.

Budget Accommodation in Tunisia

If you’re planning to travel around Tunisia on a budget, you’re in luck. The country has plenty of affordable options, especially in the major cities and tourist hubs.

Hostels

Though hostels aren’t as widespread in Tunisia as they are in Europe, you can still manage to find a few great ones. These are generally located in major cities like Tunis or Sousse. Staying in a hostel is a great choice if you’re trying to keep costs low or want a chance to meet other travelers.

YHA Hostel Tunis Auberge Medina: Located in Tunis, this hostel is cozy and budget-friendly. It’s situated near the city’s medina, making it easy to explore the area. The staff is friendly, and the rooms are clean, with dormitories available at very affordable prices.
Hostel El Medina Sousse: This is another affordable option in the coastal city of Sousse. The hostel offers dormitory-style rooms at very cheap rates. It’s also located in the city’s historic district, making everything walkable.

Cheap Hotels

If you prefer a bit more privacy but still want to save money, budget hotels are easy to find in Tunisia. Many of them offer decent amenities, clean rooms, and friendly service. Here are some solid budget hotel options.

Dar Ya (Tunis): A renovated 19th-century house in the heart of Tunis’ medina. Accommodations are simple but clean, with the added bonus of a traditional ambiance. Rooms come at a great price, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Hotel Marhaba (Hammamet): Located near the beach, this is an excellent value-for-money option in Hammamet. It’s not luxurious, but it’s comfortable, with good access to the sea and nearby attractions.

Mid-Range Stays in Tunisia

For those who want a bit more comfort while still keeping things reasonably priced, Tunisia has some great mid-range options. These hotels and guesthouses offer more amenities without breaking the bank.

Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotels in Tunisia provide a unique experience. You often find them in beautifully restored buildings with a lot of local flair.

Dar Ben Gacem (Tunis): Located in the old medina, this boutique hotel perfectly blends traditional Tunisian architecture with modern comforts. Each room has its own charm, and the staff will make you feel right at home. Plus, breakfast is typically included.
Hotel Résidence Romane (Hammamet): Close to Hammamet’s old town, this quiet boutique hotel offers spacious rooms and a lovely pool. It’s a great choice for families or couples looking for value for money without sacrificing too much comfort.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses in Tunisia offer a more personal touch, often run by locals who take pride in their property. Not only do you get a comfortable stay, but you also get a more authentic experience of Tunisian hospitality.

Dar Antonia (Sousse): This guesthouse is a hidden gem in the medina of Sousse. With only a few rooms, the place feels intimate, and attention to detail is everywhere. The rooftop views are worth the stay alone.
Maison D’Hôtes Dar Farah (Tozeur): Located in the desert town of Tozeur, this guesthouse feels like a little oasis. The rooms are designed traditionally with a modern twist, and staying here gives you a great starting point to explore the surrounding Sahara desert.

Luxury Hotels in Tunisia

For those who want to indulge, Tunisia has plenty of luxury hotels that provide world-class amenities and stylish rooms. Whether you’re planning a fancy beach holiday or a posh experience in the city, you won’t be disappointed.

Beach Resorts

The coastal towns of Hammamet, Sousse, and Djerba are home to some of Tunisia’s most well-known luxury resorts. Most are all-inclusive or offer a wide range of services, including spas, private beaches, and top-notch restaurants.

La Badira (Hammamet): This is one of the top-rated luxury hotels in Tunisia. Sitting on the coast of Hammamet, La Badira features modern design with traditional Tunisian influences. It offers everything from infinity pools to fine-dining restaurants, plus private beach access.
Hasdrubal Thalassa & Spa (Djerba): Situated in Djerba, this five-star resort is all about pampering. With beautiful pool areas, large suites, and a top-notch spa (perfect if you’re into thalassotherapy), it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the island.

Luxury City Hotels

If you want to stay in style while exploring Tunisia’s larger cities, luxury hotels are available in places like Tunis and Carthage that offer all the extravagances you could ask for.

The Residence (Tunis): This is easily one of the most luxurious hotels in the capital city. With elegant rooms and landscapes that offer a perfect blend of Tunisian and contemporary design, The Residence also has excellent restaurant options and a golf course.
Four Seasons (Tunis): You really can’t go wrong with the Four Seasons in Tunis. Positioned along the Mediterranean coast, this elegant hotel features some of the best amenities in the city. Large suites, beautiful sea views, and impeccable service make this place hard to leave.

Unique Stays in Tunisia

If you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, Tunisia has some incredible unique stays that provide a more memorable experience.

Traditional Dwellings

For a more authentic experience, skip the standard hotel room and stay in a traditional Tunisian house. These are called “dars” or desert “ksours,” and many have been converted into small hotels or guesthouses.

Dar Soukaina (Tunis): Situated in Tunis’ medina, this authentic “dar” is a traditional home that has been stunningly restored. It’s a perfect spot for soaking up local culture while still having modern comforts.
Ksour Jenane (Nefta): This is a former ksar (fortified village) turned into an eco-friendly guesthouse, located in the desert oasis of Nefta. The whole experience feels otherworldly, with desert landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see.

Troglodyte Hotels

For the more adventurous, consider staying in a cave hotel in Matmata. These underground dwellings have been used for centuries by the local Berber population and are a truly unique experience. You might recognize these locations from the original Star Wars film (they were used for Luke Skywalker’s home).

Hotel Sidi Driss (Matmata): Probably the most famous option, Hotel Sidi Driss was actually used in the filming of Star Wars. Even if you’re not a fan of the movie, staying in an ancient troglodyte dwelling is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tips for Choosing Where to Stay

Choosing a place to stay in Tunisia depends on what kind of experience you want. For beach lovers, Hammamet, Djerba, and Sousse are ideal. If you’re more interested in history and culture, then head to Tunis or Sousse to be near the medinas and Roman ruins.

For a desert adventure, base yourself in Tozeur or Douz. These towns give you easy access to the Sahara and many desert excursions. In contrast, Carthage and the northern coast is an excellent option if you’re interested in Roman history or looking to avoid the busier tourist spots.

Conclusion

No matter your budget or preferences, Tunisia has accommodation to suit every kind of traveler. Whether you’re staying in a cozy hostel in the medina of Tunis, soaking up the luxury of a beach resort in Djerba, or spending the night in a troglodyte cave in Matmata, accommodation in Tunisia promises to add a unique flavor to your trip.