Medina Old Town

Welcome to Medina Old Town, Tunis Metropole

Discover the historic heart of Tunis Metropole, the Medina Old Town in Tunisia—a UNESCO-listed labyrinth of alleys, souks, and architectural treasures that has been the social and commercial core of the city for centuries.

Historical Context

The Medina of Tunis has evolved since the 7th century and flourished under successive Islamic dynasties. Its winding streets and traditional houses reflect centuries of urban and cultural continuity, retaining its role as a vibrant hub of daily life and heritage. Today, it stands as a testament to Tunis's layered history. Many corners remain as they were, offering an authentic glimpse into the past. (tunisi.info)

Landmarks

• Zitouna Mosque: The spiritual and architectural heart of the Medina, dating back to the 8th century, with a celebrated courtyard and prayer hall.
• Dar Hussein: A former palace now housing the National Institute of Heritage, renowned for its ornate interiors.
• Dar Lasram: A majestic 18th-century palace exemplifying traditional Tunisian aristocratic architecture.
• Souks of the Medina: Bustling markets offering spices, textiles, crafts, and daily goods amid labyrinthine alleys. Open generally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Bab el‑Bhar (Porte de France): The iconic gateway marking the threshold between the Medina and the modern city.

Museums

• Dar Ben Abdallah (Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions)

  This 18th‑century palace showcases domestic life of Tunisian bourgeois families across the 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum features reconstructed family quarters, wedding scenes, and artisan displays within authentic architecture. (audiala.com)

  Visit Website

  Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed Mondays and public holidays. (audiala.com)

  Ticket Price: Around 10 Tunisian Dinars for general admission; discounts for students & seniors; children under 12 free. (audiala.com)

• National Bardo Museum

  Located a short distance outside the Medina, the Bardo houses one of the world’s richest collections of Roman mosaics, Punic and Islamic art, set within a historic palace. (rehlat.com)

  Visit Website

  Opening Hours: From June 1 to September 15: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; from September 16 to May 30: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM; closed Mondays. (bardomuseum.tn)

  Ticket Price: Non‑residents: ~13 TND; residents: ~8 TND; seniors (60+): ~4 TND. (bardomuseum.tn)

Tips for Visitors

• Wander early in the morning to avoid crowds in the Medina’s narrow alleys. (rehlat.com)
• Bargaining is customary in the souks; approach with respect. (tunisi.info)
• Entry to the Medina is free, but individual sites charge separate admission (typically 2–5 USD or ~5–12 TND). (rehlat.com)
• Use a detailed map to navigate the Medina’s labyrinthine streets. (tunisi.info)

Sources

• Rehlat – National Bardo Museum opening hours & tickets (rehlat.com)
• Bardo Museum official site – Opening hours & prices (bardomuseum.tn)
• Audiala – Dar Ben Abdallah visiting hours & tickets (audiala.com)
• Tunisi.info – Medina general info & opening times (tunisi.info)
• Rehlat – Medina highlights and landmark descriptions (rehlat.com)