The Best Travel Guide to Monastir (UPDATED 2023) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Monastir

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Overview

Nearby guides
Hammamet
Tunis
Djerba

Monastir The guide was updated: 2023-02-16

Located in north-eastern Tunisia, Monastir is a major tourist resort. With its attractive marina and old fishing port, the city is an excellent base for a beach holiday, offering a vast array of activities to enjoy such as water sports, fishing, and golf. Whatever the season, you will find an ideal climate to enjoy some of Tunisia’s finest sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, along with an overwhelming choice of waterfront hotels and restaurants serving both local and international cuisine, making it an excellent destination for anyone seeking a memorable vacation.

Facts

Population:	71, 546 (2022)
Currency:	TND (Tunisian Dinar) = 1000 millimes
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police: 197 Fire: 198 Ambulance: 190
Newspapers:	Le Renouveau Le Quotidien La Presse (French) – lapresse.tn
Opening hours:	In general, public services, banks, museums, and shops are open from 8am–noon and from 2–5pm. During the summer, opening hours in the afternoon may go from 3–8pm. Some banks may be open non-stop from 8am–4:15pm from Monday to Friday. Museums are closed on Mondays, and shops are closed on Sundays.

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Section in Monastir

You will find a well preserved old fortress, the Ribat, located right on the waterfront and restored many times. Home to a Museum of Islamic Art and Artefacts, this is the main historical attraction of Monastir, along with the impressive golden-domed Bourguiba Mosque. The combination of the Ribat’s ancient atmosphere fused with a modern resort complex makes Monastir a very popular destination among travellers looking for a beach holiday with an accent on tradition.

The Ribat

The Ribat

This is probably the main attraction in Monastir and the right place to get a glimpse of ancient Tunisia. The fortress has been used several times as natural décor for international movies. The oldest part is situated around the lookout tower and houses the Museum which features a great collection of ancient Islamic writings, fabrics, pottery, astrolabes and carved roof timber.

Bourguiba Mosque

Bourguiba Mosque

The beautiful mosque was originally built in 1963. The prayer hall has 86 pink marble pillars holding up the vault. Nearby is the huge Bourguiba Mausoleum with its three domes and the two minarets that mark the entrance of the complex. Bourguiba was the founder of modern Tunisia and its first president.

Islamic Museum

Islamic Museum

This museum is located in the Ribat and was originally the prayer hall. It presents a varied collection of traditional fabrics and different objects such as coins, jewellery and pottery. It also displays an astro laboratory dated all the way back to year 927.

Lamta Archaeological Museum

Lamta Archaeological Museum

This archaeological site presents a unique collection from the Roman period. The museum houses many different treasures and the beautiful mosaic floor has never been moved.

Cap Marina

Cap Marina

This is where you may head first to find out about all the beach sports such as diving, fishing, windsurfing and more. Town Beach is just in front of the Ribat, with lovely crystal clear water. Sauntering along the marina is also very enjoyable especially at sunset.

Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires

Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires

This small museum gives you insights into the traditional clothing and jewelry of the area. Step in a learn about the people of Monastir through the years. It is located near Bourghiba Mausoleum and adds to a day full of sightseeing.

Beach Life

Beach Life

Experience outstanding beach life in Monastir and surrounding areas. You can visit La Goulette, which is close to the city Tunis and provides an ideal spot for family holidays at the beach. A day-trip to the island of Djerba will be a beautiful experience with a lot of sun and sand.

Desert Adventure

Desert Adventure

When in Monastir, you should not miss out on experiencing the desert at its best. The easiest way is to book a tour with a local agency and learn more about the arid area in Tunisia.

Souk Shopping

Souk Shopping

The best place to go is the souk in the old part of Monastir, open daily, just outside the Ribat’s walls along the boulevard all the way to the cliff top. Here you will find many shops and artisans selling a large selection of carpets, ceramics, silver jewelry, brass and copper, leather work, wall hangings, antiques and funny stuff.

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