Monastir

DESTINATIONS tunisia monastir

Monastir

What started out as a busy fishing port on the central Tunisian coast is now a popular touristic destination showcasing some of the finest beaches in Northern Africa. Monastir offers a vast array of activities such as water sports, fishing and horse riding along with a long list of impressive hotels and restaurants. This culturally rich and enchanting city surrounded by Bedouin architecture is great to visit year-round due to the blissful Mediterranean climate and there is plenty to do and see for all ages.

The City

Monastir was founded in the 9th century on the ruins of the Punic-Roman city of Ruspina. The Ribat is the best preserved example of the architecture from this period and remains the main historical attraction of Monastir today. The Ribat is also home to the Museum of Islamic Art and Artefacts, where visitors can take a peek at some trinkets dating back over one thousand years. Get a glimpse of how the quarrels between the Fatimids and the people of Ifriqiya led to the golden age of Monastir during the Ziri era when Maliki jurisprudence was being ushered in as the bedrock of Islamic law. The Zirid Dynasty spread messages of spirituality and religion as far as Southern Europe which are recognisable even in today's interpretations of the Quran. Perhaps the second golden era of Monastir took place just seventy years ago, when the Tunisian Monarchy was dissolved and Habib Bourguiba was named the first president of Tunisia. Bourguiba played a pivotal role in Tunisia's evolution into an independent state, passing reforms in healthcare and women's liberation amongst many others. Bourguiba features heavily throughout the city of Monastir, from road names to life-sized cardboard cutouts in the street. He is everywhere. The golden-domed Bourguiba Mausoleum is another standout example of Tunisian architecture, demonstrating elements of Maliki heritage and typical features of the Magreb. Although Monastir started life as a fishing port and defensive stronghold, today the city is more of a purpose-built tourist town connected by a network of pristine streets and lavish landscaping. Most of Monastir’s tourist hotels are situated five or six kilometres west of the town centre near Skanes, which is conveniently close to the airport. Pay a visit to the neighbouring cities of Sousse or Kairouan and the magnificent El Jem to get a taste of real, ancient and untouched North African culture.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

The marriage between historically significant architecture and modern touristic facilities makes Monastir a great destination amongst travellers seeking a relaxing and fun beach holiday with a side serving of tradition and culture. Perched on the waterfront lies the main historical attraction of Monastir, The Ribat. The impressive golden-topped Bourguiba Mosque is just a stone's throw away, surrounded by meticulously designed parks and several important landmarks. Head out of the city to experience the desert in all its glory or stroll down the seemingly endless beach to get a sense of the city when it was emerging as a fishing port during the collapse of the Roman Empire.

Ribat

Considered the main attraction in Monastir and the best place to get a glimpse of ancient Tunisia, the Ribat built in 796 has been periodically renovated and reinforced to maintain its integrity and striking appearance. The oldest part of this defensive stronghold is situated around the lookout tower, which was built to locate enemy …

Bourguiba Mausoleum

This majestic mausoleum dedicated to the 'Father of Modern Tunisia' Habib Bourguiba is decked out from top to bottom with white marble and decorative touches of emerald green, making it gleam in the hot sun of Monastir. The two towers poised on either side of the entrance to the tomb resemble the minarets of …

Bourguiba Mosque

Built in 1963 to commemorate Tunisia's first president Habib Bourguiba, this colourful mosque demonstrates typical Tunisian religious architecture complete with pink marble pillars and golden mosaics which are exquisitely preserved. The impressive prayer room which is the focal point of the mosque can take up to one thousand visitors and is often busy with …

Sousse

In case there wasn't enough to do in Monastir, the next port up has plenty to offer in the way of rare archaeological finds and exciting history which can be discovered in the Sousse Archaeological Museum or the Museum Dar Essid. The city of Sousse, similar to Monastir, exhibits some important ancient structures that …

Ribat Museum

Once a prayer hall, the Ribat Museum showcases a varied collection of traditional fabrics and objects such as coins, jewellery and pottery that will transport visitors back to a time when Islamic art was highly coveted the world over. It also displays an astrolabe (a device which measures the distance between stars) dating all …

Monastir Museum of Folk Arts & Traditions

This small but pleasantly decorated museum gives insight into the traditional clothing and jewellery of both the Tunisian and Berber peoples. Stop in briefly and learn about the intricate designs of Monastir through the years. The Museum of Folk Arts & Traditions is located near the Bourguiba Mosque and is a nice, easy, inexpensive …

Marina

This is the place for diving, fishing, windsurfing, sailing and just about any other water sport out there. The Marina is right beside the Ribat and a luxury hotel resort which peers over the crystal clear water on the other side towards the beach. Sauntering along the marina is especially enjoyable at sunset when …

Beach Life

White sand and turquoise water are the key ingredients to Monastir's beaches. The most obvious choice would be to head straight to Karaia (Qaraiya) beach, which is one of the focal points of the city. However, it does get very busy in high season. For those willing to venture a little further afield for …

Desert Adventure

To really get a deeper understanding of the area, head inland towards the golden sand dunes that are home to a myriad of hidden treasures. One not-so-hidden treasure is the amphitheatre of El Jem which was a set for the film Gladiator and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site owing to its …

Dining

The cuisine of Monastir and Tunisia on the whole defines itself with an abundance of rich olive oil and not-so-delicate spices. The national dish is the famous Berber couscous, made from durum wheat which is steamed and soaked in a thick, peppery harissa paste and accompanied by vegetables, beef, veal, lamb, fish or octopus. Monastir itself is better known for its seafood as it is right next to a major fishing port. The amalgam of sweet, sharp, smokey and tangy flavours that are infused in this seaside city's best dishes can appease even the most robust palates.

Le Pirate

Le Pirate has to be one of, if not the most esteemed seafood restaurants in Monastir. The set menu is reasonably priced considering the jaw-dropping quality of the food. The calm atmosphere beside the fishing port and the friendly service make the experience that much more appealing. The fish soup sets the four course …

Malibu Space

This jazzy resto-lounge has a wild, tropical feel to it. Perhaps, it's because of the giant ornamental elephant sticking out of the front door. The restaurant specialising in seafood is upstairs overlooking the beach and downstairs you can grab a cocktail in the lounge area whilst listening to a live band. Whilst Malibu Space …

El Koojina

La Cocina, as it is otherwise known, is a quaint, clean and traditional Tunisian eatery that specialises in couscous and local dishes. The fresh spices really come through in the colour and aroma of the food here, and the mint tea is a refreshing palate cleanser. It's a great excuse to embark on a …

Marina The Captain

The restaurant Marina The Captain specialises in fresh seafood. It can be found in one of the best spots in town, right in the middle of the Marina overlooking the fishing boats that bring in the catch of the day. If the grilled sea bass and sea bream don't get the juices flowing, perhaps …

El Ferik

Fast and friendly, El Ferik is the venue to taste the local dishes like goat meat at very reasonable prices. They also have a decent selection of fish and alcoholic beverages. The restaurant lies right on the waterfront and offers its guests a beautiful sea view to accompany their …

Soprano

A firm favourite amongst students who mill around the surrounding areas which belong to the university, Soprano offers generous doses of tomato, cheese and whatever topping your heart desires on their very reasonably priced pizzas. The staff are as warm and authentic as the dough that makes their pizzas, making them popular with locals …

Alhambra

Travellers that have the willpower to stick to a tight budget will find Alhambra ideal for small bites and that fill big holes and massive meals that go one step further. There's no alcohol served here, but the quality and portions more than make up for …

Le Chandelier

This pleasantly lit restaurant full of lanterns, and by virtue of which a certain smokey ambiance, is another popular addition to the Marina. The Candle House, as it is otherwise known, serves both Tunisian and Mediterranean cuisine and makes superb fish and seafood dishes. There is also a large choice of pizzas and pastas, …

Le Roi du Couscous

The self-proclaimed 'King of Couscous' serves up some hearty Moroccan comfort food that is popular amongst the locals due to its price point and the gargantuan portions. Be sure to make it abundantly clear what level of spice you are comfortable with as the sauces here can range from a zingy tickle to full …

Cafés

There are many traditional cafés to be discovered in the unmapped parts of Monastir. They all serve the quintessentially Tunisian mint tea and pine nut combo. At the other end of the spectrum, you will also come across a plethora of modern establishments that are oozing with character, serving anything from frappuccinos to Belgian waffles. Take a walk through the centre of Monastir to find the best and most unique coffee houses, some of which serve a broad selection of tantalising pastries and cakes that wouldn't look out of place in high-end French patisseries.

Café Dar El Habib

Café Dar el Habib is a typical Tunisian residence, which has been transformed into a cultural café, located in the old town just a few steps away from the Medina of Monastir. Its charm lies in the weathered stone blocks, traditional decor and a collection of quirky antiques paying homage to Habib Bourguiba that …

Biscottino's

This well-established French/American bakery serves up some seriously naughty pastries and cakes that are very difficult to say no to — consider yourself warned. The whipped pistachio ganache is a firm favourite amongst the locals and all their versions of traditional pâtisseries are both masterful and unique. Wash them down with a crunchy caramel …

Friends Coffee

A great place to start your day with an ice cold frappuccino. Locals come to Friends Coffee for its sumptuous cheesecake, foamy beverages and friendly atmosphere. Make a quick pitstop in this petit cafe in the centre of town to refresh the senses and help you on your …

Le Bistrot

This elegant and cosy cafe in the heart of the city can get a bit busy at peak times, but it is for a good reason. The presentation is really exceptional here as each cake, crepe or omelette has its own unique character which is achieved through delicate dressings and precise craftsmanship. Whether it's …

The Hobbit

You may be thinking that a place called 'The Hobbit' is going to be serving heavy quaffs of ale and lembas bread but, alas, coffee is the main ingredient of this student-centred café. If you need to get a bit of work done whilst you're on holiday, this is the place to come. The …

Kavos Coffee

Funky, fresh and bright yellow are three ways to describe Kavos coffee shop, popular amongst students who swarm in from the neighbouring faculties to get their caffeine and sugar fix. Enjoy a healthy breakfast of dried fruits or a waffle dripping in caramel depending on the vibe of the day. If you have a …

Bars & Nightlife

Most of the late-night entertainment in Monastir is hotel-based unless you are happy to travel up towards Sousse where there is a bit more nightlife. You will find a wide range of western style bars and discos within most of the resorts in Monastir offering such entertainment as floorshows, live bands and plenty of other excuses to get on the dance floor. Venturing off outside the resort in the evening can be a bit of an adventure as there is not a great deal of information for tourists on local after-hours haunts, but if that's what you're after, have no fear, this list is for you.

Savana Club

Expect high quality meals with a modern twist during the evening and bottles popping all around when the night hits at Savana Club in the expansive Safari shopping centre. Dance the night away inside where the DJs are hard at work under the strobe lights, or take a seat on their outdoor terrace to …

Hacienda Beach-Pool

For those who prefer a more controlled swimming experience by the beach, perhaps with a long cocktail in hand, Hacienda Peach-Pool bar has the answer. It may be quite expensive to get in, but once the entrance fee is taken care of, visitors can enjoy the beachside pool, the four poster sunbeds, great music …

Bar 51

The flagship bar of the Sahara Beach Aquapark Resort, Bar 51 is a floating fantasy perched on a pier just off the coast of Skanes beach. The friendly staff can whip up just about any cocktail that can be dreamt up for a very reasonable price considering its location. The resort offers a whole …

L'Empreinte

L'Empreinte bar comes to life later into the night with blaring music from popular DJs and live bands. The set up is very stylish and equipped to host hundreds of guests who can immerse themselves in the theme of the night which could be anything from football to Moulin Rouge. Be a bit careful …

Shopping

If you like haggling, you will love shopping in Monastir. As a general rule, if you are shopping in the souks or stalls, start by cutting the price in half then work your way up to a compromise from there. If you prefer fixed prices or you just get tired of haggling, try the established stores outside the souks and if you have time, the large Soula Center in Sousse. The Medina is almost always full of passionate salespeople, sweet smells and local treasures, so be sure to at least have a gander around the old quarter.