Tunis/La Goulette, Tunisia

Welcome to Tunis/La Goulette, Tunisia: A Jewel of North Africa

Tunis/La Goulette serves as the perfect gateway to Tunisia's rich cultural history and stunning Mediterranean coastline. Visiting on a cruise is a fantastic way to explore this vibrant area while soaking up the sights, sounds, and flavours of North Africa. Fun fact: La Goulette is known for its delicious seafood and colourful markets, making it a delightful stop for cruisers looking to taste the local cuisine!

Discover Tunis/La Goulette: What to Do

There’s no shortage of exciting activities when your cruise ship docks at Tunis/La Goulette. Check out the following highlights:

• Explore the Medina of Tunis: This UNESCO World Heritage site is full of narrow winding streets, colourful souks, and beautiful architecture. Be sure to visit the famous Zitouna Mosque and pick up some handcrafted souvenirs!
• Visit the Bardo National Museum: Just a short ride from La Goulette, the museum is famous for its collection of stunning Roman mosaics and exhibits detailing Tunisia's rich history.
• Relax at the Beaches: La Goulette boasts beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for lounging in the sun or taking a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy local beachside cafes that serve refreshing drinks!
• Take a Tunisian Cooking Class: Engage with local culture by attending a cooking class, where you'll learn to make traditional dishes such as couscous and tajine, often using fresh ingredients from the markets.
• Visit the Ancient Ruins of Carthage: A quick trip from La Goulette will take you to the historical site of Carthage. Explore ancient ruins, including the Roman amphitheatre and impressive villas with stunning sea views.

Nearby Ports Worth Exploring on Your Cruise

When your cruise includes stops at nearby ports, you're in for a treat. Here’s what you can expect:

• La Valletta, Malta: The capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral to admire its stunning interiors and the famous Caravaggio paintings.
• Palma de Mallorca, Spain: This stunning island is famous for its beautiful beaches, art scene, and historic sites like the Palma Cathedral. Take time to explore the old town and enjoy local delicacies.
• Cagliari, Sardinia: Located on the island of Sardinia, Cagliari offers beautiful coastal views, historic architecture, and delicious food. Explore the Castello district and soak in the scenic views from the Bastione di Saint Remy.
• Naples, Italy: Known for its rich history and delicious cuisine, Naples is a vibrant city. Make sure to visit the stunning ruins of Pompeii, and don't miss out on trying authentic Neapolitan pizza!
• Barcelona, Spain: The bustling city of Barcelona is known for its unique architecture and art, particularly those of Antoni Gaudi. Explore famous attractions like Sagrada Familia and Park Güell to soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Regions Commonly Explored While Cruising to Tunis/La Goulette

A cruise to Tunis/La Goulette often covers several remarkable regions, offering a mix of cultural experiences:

• Mediterranean Sea: Known for its clear blue waters and stunning coastlines, the Mediterranean offers a variety of destinations from Italy's Amalfi Coast to Greece's legendary islands, providing endless exploration opportunities.
• Africa: Africa is rich in culture and diversity, with each country offering unique experiences. From the bustling souks of Morocco to the savannahs of Kenya, a cruise here can provide fascinating contrasts.
• North Africa: The region is known for its historic cities and diverse cultures. Explore the rich heritage in places like Egypt and Algeria, where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes.
• Western Mediterranean: This area offers iconic cities and beautiful coastal scenery. Enjoy stops in countries like France and Spain, each known for its unique cuisine and vibrant culture.
• Balearic Islands: A group of islands off the east coast of Spain, known for their stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy relaxing in Ibiza or exploring the charming towns of Menorca and Mallorca.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Tunis/La Goulette

• MSC Cruises: With ships like MSC Seaside and MSC Fantasia, MSC Cruises offers a fantastic onboard experience, featuring family-oriented activities and entertainment. These cruises often depart from Barcelona or Naples.
• Holland America Line: Known for its rich heritage and high-quality service, Holland America's Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam provide a luxurious cruise experience. Most itineraries to Tunis/La Goulette depart from Barcelona or Athens.
• P&O Cruises: Aurora and Ventura are P&O's ships that visit Tunis/La Goulette, offering a blend of traditional British cruising and international flair. Departures for these cruises typically happen from Southampton.

Top Luxury or Small Ship Cruise Companies

• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn offers luxurious itineraries, with ships like Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Ovation departing from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona. Known for their all-inclusive luxury experience, Seabourn provides personalised service and elegant onboard dining.
• Oceania Cruises: Featuring ships like Nautica and Marina, Oceania Cruises prides itself on fine dining and destination-focused itineraries. They offer various departure points, with routes often beginning in Athens or Civitavecchia.
• Silversea: Boasting an upscale fleet of 13 ships, Silversea offers opulent travel experiences with its Silver Muse and Silver Dawn ships. Most cruises depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Athens, featuring intimate and personalised service.
• Explora Journeys: With a modern approach to luxury, Explora Journeys focuses on sustainability and quality experiences. Their ships, EXPLORA II and EXPLORA I, typically depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona.
• Azamara Cruises: Known for immersive experiences, Azamara focuses on cultural engagement, with ships like Azamara Journey and Azamara Pursuit sailing primarily from Nice or Málaga. They often offer late-night departures allowing for evening exploration.

Visiting Tunis/La Goulette Throughout the Seasons

The experience of cruising to Tunis/La Goulette can vary depending on the season you choose. Here’s what to anticipate throughout the year:

• Spring (March, April, May): Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, offering mild weather perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like the Medina or gardens of Tunis.
• Summer (June, July, August): Expect hot temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The summer months are perfect for lounging on the beaches of La Goulette and enjoying the local festival scenes.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Autumn brings cooler weather with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, a comfortable time to explore historical sites and enjoy cultural festivals.
• Winter (December, January, February): Winter temperatures can drop as low as 5°C to 15°C. While a bit colder, this season offers fewer crowds and a unique opportunity to experience local traditions during the quieter months.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tunis/La Goulette, Tunisia

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

The average cost for a 1-week cruise to Tunis/La Goulette can range from $1,200 to $2,500 for standard cruises. For a 2-week journey, prices typically range from $3,000 to $5,000. Luxury cruises may cost between $3,000 and $7,000 depending on the ship and itinerary.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Food prices in La Goulette can vary, with meals typically costing between $10 and $30 in local restaurants. Onboard dining may be included in your cruise package, while specialty dining can incur additional costs.

What are some of the dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

La Goulette has plenty of dining options, especially for seafood lovers. Try local markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts, perfect for picking up souvenirs!

What are transportation options?

Taxis and local buses are readily available for getting around Tunis. Many cruise lines also provide shore excursion packages that include transportation to nearby attractions.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Tunisian Dinar. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for markets or smaller vendors.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Tunis/La Goulette is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas. Always have travel insurance that covers health needs while abroad.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The official language is Arabic, but French is also commonly spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases can enhance your experience and make a positive impression on locals.