21 Most Instagrammable Places in Tunisia for 2025: A Photographer's Guide to North Africa's Hidden Gem - Xplrverse

Why Tunisia Should Be on Every Photographer’s Bucket List

The first time I stepped foot in Tunisia back in 2017, I had no idea I was about to fall in love with what would become my favorite North African destination. Seven visits later, I still discover new photo-worthy corners each time. During my last trip in January, I found myself practically alone at the Roman ruins of Dougga at sunset – the golden light bathing the ancient stones as I frantically tried to capture the moment before the colors faded. My hands were shaking from both the unexpected evening chill and the excitement of having this UNESCO World Heritage site virtually to myself.

Tunisia offers an incredible variety of landscapes and cultural scenes that deserve far more attention on social media feeds than they currently receive. From Mediterranean blue-and-white villages that rival Santorini to Star Wars filming locations in the desert, this compact country packs an astonishing diversity of photogenic spots into its borders.

In this guide, I’ll share my favorite Instagrammable places across Tunisia based on multiple visits in different seasons. I’ll include exact photo spots, the best times to visit for optimal lighting, and insider tips I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) to help you create stunning content while respecting local customs and culture.

Coastal Dreamscapes: Tunisia’s Mediterranean Gems

1. Sidi Bou Said: Tunisia’s Blue and White Village

If there’s one place in Tunisia that screams “Instagram-worthy,” it’s the hillside village of Sidi Bou Said, just 20km from Tunis. This blue and white paradise might remind you of Santorini, but it has a distinctly Tunisian character with intricate doorways, ornate window frames, and cascading bougainvillea.

The most photographed spot is undoubtedly Café des Délices with its stunning terrace overlooking the Gulf of Tunis. However, I’ve found that the real magic lies in the winding side streets where you’ll find fewer tourists. Last year, I discovered the perfect blue door on Rue Habib Thameur that had zero people around it, even during peak season.

Best Photo Spots in Sidi Bou Said:

The famous blue door with studs at the top of the main street (Rue Habib Thameur)
The panoramic view from Café des Délices (arrive before 9am for empty terrace shots)
The narrow staircase on Rue du 18 Janvier that frames the Mediterranean perfectly
The artisan shops with colorful ceramics and bird cages on Rue Sidi Dhrif

Photography Tip: Visit early morning (7-9am) or in the evening (after 6pm) to avoid both harsh light and crowds. During summer months, the bright white walls create extreme contrast around midday, making balanced exposures nearly impossible. My best shots have always come during the “blue hour” just after sunset when the white walls take on a magical blue glow.

2. La Marsa Beach: Sunset Paradise

Just north of Sidi Bou Said lies La Marsa, a upscale coastal suburb with one of Tunisia’s most photogenic beaches. What makes La Marsa special isn’t just the clean Mediterranean waters but the beautiful wooden fishing boats that line the shore and the view of Sidi Bou Said perched on the hillside in the distance.

During my visit last summer, I met a local fisherman named Karim who let me photograph his traditional blue fishing boat for 5 dinars (about $1.60). These boats make for incredible foreground elements with the sunset behind them. If you’re lucky and speak a bit of Arabic or French, you might even convince a fisherman to take you out for a short boat ride for photos – I paid 20 dinars ($6.50) for a 30-minute excursion that yielded some of my most cherished Tunisia photos.

3. Mahdia’s Old Town and Beaches

Further down the coast, the underrated city of Mahdia offers a more authentic coastal experience with fewer tourists. The narrow medieval streets of the medina lead to a stunning promontory with the whitewashed Cap d’Afrique lighthouse and cemetery overlooking turquoise waters.

The contrast between the white tombs, blue sea, and golden stone of the Skifa el-Kahla gate creates dramatic compositions that perform incredibly well on Instagram. I spent an entire afternoon here playing with different angles and watching local families picnic among the seaside graves – a common practice that reflects Tunisians’ different relationship with burial grounds.

Ancient Wonders: Roman Ruins and Historical Sites

4. The Amphitheater of El Jem

El Jem houses North Africa’s most impressive Roman amphitheater, a UNESCO World Heritage site that rivals Rome’s Colosseum yet sees a fraction of the visitors. This massive structure rising from the small town creates a surreal juxtaposition that’s perfect for dramatic photography.

What many visitors don’t realize is that for an additional 5 dinars ($1.60), you can gain access to the underground chambers and tunnels where gladiators and animals once waited before combat. These atmospheric spaces with their dramatic lighting make for unique photos that stand out from typical tourist shots.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Purchase the combined ticket that includes both El Jem Amphitheater and the excellent El Jem Archaeological Museum for 14 dinars instead of 20 dinars if bought separately. The museum contains stunning mosaics that make for detailed close-up photography opportunities when the midday sun makes outdoor shooting challenging.

5. Dougga: Roman Ruins with a View

Dougga sits atop a hill in northern Tunisia, offering not just well-preserved Roman ruins but also spectacular panoramic views across olive groves and rolling countryside. The Capitol building with its imposing columns makes for classic ancient world imagery, while the curved seating of the theater creates beautiful geometric patterns when photographed from above.

During my last visit, I made the mistake of arriving at noon – the harsh overhead sun created unflattering shadows and contrast. Yallah, miskeen! (Oh my, poor thing!) as my Tunisian friend jokingly said. Now I know better: Dougga is best photographed in the golden hour before sunset when the honey-colored stones glow and create a magical atmosphere.

6. Carthage Archaeological Park

Just outside Tunis lies Carthage, the ancient city that once rivaled Rome. Today, its archaeological sites are scattered throughout an upscale suburb, creating fascinating contrasts between ancient ruins and modern luxury villas.

The Antonine Baths, once the largest Roman baths outside Rome, offer the most dramatic photo opportunities with massive columns framing the Mediterranean Sea beyond. For something different, head to the Tophet – the ancient sacrificial grounds where urns containing the remains of sacrificed children were discovered. The gnarled olive trees and mysterious stone markers create a haunting atmosphere, especially in the soft evening light.

Archaeological Site	Best Time to Photograph	Entrance Fee (2025)	Photo Permit Needed?
Antonine Baths	Late afternoon (4-6pm)	12 dinars ($3.90)	No (tripods allowed)
Byrsa Hill/Carthage Museum	Morning (9-11am)	12 dinars ($3.90)	No (no flash inside museum)
Tophet	Evening (golden hour)	Included in multi-site ticket	No
Roman Villas	Midday (for mosaics)	Included in multi-site ticket	No

Insider Money-Saving Tip: Purchase the combined ticket for 32 dinars ($10.40) that gives access to all Carthage archaeological sites plus nearby Bardo Museum – it’s valid for one week and saves you about 40% compared to individual tickets.

Medina Magic: Urban Photography in Tunisia’s Old Cities

7. Tunis Medina: The Heart of the Capital

The labyrinthine streets of Tunis’ ancient medina (a UNESCO World Heritage site) offer endless photography opportunities. From soaring mosque minarets to tiny craft workshops where artisans practice centuries-old trades, every corner tells a story.

Most tourists stick to the main souks (marketplaces), but I’ve found that the residential areas near Rue du Pacha offer more authentic scenes of daily life and stunning traditional architecture without the sales pressure. Look for the ornate wooden balconies called mashrabiyas that allowed women to observe street life while remaining unseen.

Most Photogenic Spots in Tunis Medina:

The keyhole archway entrance to Dar Ben Abdallah Museum
The ceiling of Souk des Étoffes (Fabric Souk) with light beams piercing through
The tiled courtyard of Dar Lasram near Bab Bhar (Sea Gate)
The spice pyramids at Souk El Attarine (Perfume Market)
The rooftop view from El Ali café overlooking Ez-Zitouna Mosque

I learned a valuable lesson during my first visit: always ask permission before photographing people or shops. A friendly “Najem nsawerkom?” (Can I take your photo?) goes a long way. Most Tunisians are happy to be photographed if approached respectfully, and some shopkeepers actually appreciate the free publicity if you offer to tag their shop on Instagram.

8. Sousse Medina and Ribat

Sousse, a coastal city about 140km south of Tunis, offers a more manageable medina experience with the added benefit of the stunning Ribat (fortified monastery) that provides panoramic views across the city and Mediterranean.

Climbing the Ribat’s watchtower just before closing time (around 5:30pm in summer) rewards you with golden light washing over the medina’s rooftops, satellite dishes, and mosque domes – a perfect visual representation of Tunisia’s blend of ancient and modern.

9. Kairouan’s Great Mosque and Carpet Shops

Tunisia’s holiest city, Kairouan, boasts the oldest mosque in North Africa and a medina famous for its carpet weaving tradition. The Great Mosque’s forest of columns creates mesmerizing geometric patterns, while the central courtyard with its ancient cistern offers beautiful symmetrical compositions.

For colorful photos that perform well on social media, visit the carpet shops where vendors are usually happy to let you photograph their wares (with the hope you’ll purchase, of course). My favorite spot is Mosque des Tapis on Rue de la Kasbah, where the owner Mohammed arranges dozens of carpets in rainbow-like color gradients specifically for photographers.

Cultural Tip: Non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall of the Great Mosque, but can photograph the courtyard and peek into the prayer hall from designated viewing points. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) out of respect when visiting this important religious site.

Desert Dreamscapes: Star Wars Sets and Saharan Landscapes

10. Star Wars Film Locations in Tozeur and Tataouine

Perhaps Tunisia’s most unique photography opportunity is the chance to capture real Star Wars film sets that still stand in the desert. The most accessible is Mos Espa (from The Phantom Menace) near Tozeur, where you can photograph the iconic pod-racing arena and Anakin Skywalker’s childhood home.

During my visit in 2022, I naively arrived at midday when the harsh desert sun created terrible lighting conditions and the heat was unbearable at 42°C (107°F). I had to sheepishly ask my driver to return at sunset, which cost me an extra 60 dinars ($19.50). Now I know better – always plan desert photography for early morning or late afternoon.

For more remote Star Wars locations, head to the Tataouine region (yes, the actual place that inspired Luke Skywalker’s home planet name) where you’ll find the Lars Homestead from A New Hope in Matmata and several other filming locations scattered throughout the region.

11. Ong Jemel (The Camel’s Neck) Near Tozeur

This uniquely shaped rock formation near Mos Espa resembles a camel’s head and neck drinking from the desert. The rippling sand dunes surrounding it create beautiful patterns, especially when photographed in the low-angled morning or evening light.

If you’re into night photography, this area offers spectacular opportunities for astrophotography due to minimal light pollution. I captured some of my best Milky Way shots here, though I recommend bringing a local guide as navigation in the desert at night can be treacherous.

12. The Salt Flats of Chott el Jerid

This vast salt lake between Tozeur and Douz creates otherworldly landscapes that feel like you’re on another planet. During summer, the lake completely dries up, revealing geometric salt crystal patterns that create abstract compositions. After rain, shallow water creates perfect reflections of the sky.

I’ll never forget driving across the Chott during my first visit and asking our driver to stop at what appeared to be a small, isolated salt crystal formation. As I approached with my camera, I realized it was actually massive – perspective is incredibly deceptive on the flat expanse. These disorienting elements make for unique photos that stand out in social feeds.

Safety & Money-Saving Tip: Rather than booking an expensive organized tour to the desert from coastal resorts (often 250+ dinars/$81+), take public transportation to Tozeur or Douz and arrange local transportation once there. I paid just 120 dinars ($39) for a half-day 4×4 tour that included Ong Jemel, Mos Espa, and an oasis visit by negotiating directly with a driver in Tozeur. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and cash as there are no ATMs in the desert!

Mountain Villages and Berber Culture

13. Chenini: The Mountaintop Berber Village

Perched dramatically on a ridge in southern Tunisia, Chenini is a semi-abandoned Berber village with distinctive granary structures built into the mountainside. The ocher-colored stone buildings blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a photographer’s paradise of textures and earth tones.

For the best photos, hike to the opposite ridge (about 20 minutes on a clear path) where you can capture the entire village with telephoto compression that emphasizes the dramatic setting. Early morning light illuminates the eastern face of the village beautifully, while sunset creates a golden glow on the western side.

When I visited in 2019, I was fortunate enough to meet an elderly resident, Ahmed, who still lived in one of the traditional cave homes and invited me in for mint tea. The contrast between the simple stone exterior and his home’s colorful interior decorations made for fascinating photography (with his permission, of course).

14. Takrouna: Central Tunisia’s Hidden Gem

Less known than other Berber villages, Takrouna sits atop a rocky outcrop in central Tunisia, offering spectacular panoramic views across olive groves and the distant Mediterranean. What makes this village special for photography is the whitewashed buildings against the dramatic rocky backdrop.

There’s a lovely café at the summit called Café Ain Jbal that has built several viewing platforms specifically for photography. Order a mint tea (3 dinars/$1) and you can stay as long as you like, waiting for the perfect light. The café owner Anis speaks excellent English and can point out the best angles for photos.

Unique Architectural Wonders

15. The Underground Homes of Matmata

Made famous as Luke Skywalker’s home in Star Wars, the troglodyte dwellings of Matmata are sunken courtyards with cave rooms dug into the surrounding earth – a brilliant architectural solution to the region’s extreme temperatures.

While Hotel Sidi Driss (the actual Star Wars filming location) gets crowded with tourists, I discovered that several families in Matmata still live in traditional troglodyte homes and welcome photographers for a small fee (5-10 dinars/$1.60-$3.25). These less-visited homes offer more authentic photography opportunities without the Star Wars memorabilia.

The dramatic light and shadow play in these sunken courtyards creates striking images, particularly around 11am when sunlight reaches the bottom of the deeper dwellings but hasn’t yet become too harsh.

16. The Blue Doors of Hammamet

Hammamet’s medina is smaller than others in Tunisia but offers a photogenic collection of blue doors against whitewashed walls. What sets Hammamet’s doors apart is the intricate metalwork and distinctive studs arranged in geometric patterns.

Create a door photography series by capturing the variety of blue shades and decorative elements. For context, try including local residents (with permission) or cats (no permission needed – Tunisia has plenty of photogenic felines lounging by these colorful entrances).

Off-the-Beaten-Path Photo Opportunities

17. The Pink Salt Lake of Monastir (Lac Rose)

About 20 minutes from Monastir airport lies a little-known salt lake that turns vivid pink during summer months due to specific algae that thrive in high-salinity environments. The contrast between the pink water, white salt crystals, and blue sky creates surreal images that seem almost artificially enhanced but are completely natural.

The best time to visit is July-August when the pink color is most intense. Bring a drone if you have one – the aerial perspective reveals fascinating patterns in the salt harvesting areas adjacent to the lake.

I stumbled upon this spot completely by accident while taking a wrong turn driving from Monastir to Sousse. Sometimes getting lost leads to the best discoveries!

18. The Abandoned Railway Station of Metlaoui

In the phosphate mining region of southwest Tunisia, the colonial-era railway station of Metlaoui stands as a fascinating relic of the past. The abandoned steam locomotives and vintage carriages rusting in the desert create atmospheric photos with a post-apocalyptic feel.

This isn’t on any tourist map, and you’ll need to ask permission from the security guard (a small tip of 5 dinars/$1.60 usually suffices). Visiting at sunset when the metal takes on a warm golden glow produces the most dramatic results.

Sustainability Tip: When photographing abandoned places, always follow the “leave no trace” principle. Many Instagram-famous abandoned locations worldwide have been damaged by visitors moving items to create more “aesthetic” compositions. Photograph things as you find them and resist the urge to rearrange for better photos.

19. Traditional Fishing Methods at Kerkennah Islands

Off Tunisia’s eastern coast, the Kerkennah archipelago remains one of the country’s least developed areas, where traditional fishing techniques dating back to Phoenician times are still practiced. The fixed fishing nets called charfia create geometric patterns in the shallow waters that are spectacular when photographed from above.

Arrange a boat tour with local fishermen to see these structures up close and photograph the process of harvesting fish. Early morning offers the calmest waters and best light, plus you’ll see more active fishing during this time.

New Instagrammable Hotspots for 2025

20. La Cigale Gammarth’s Infinity Pool

Following its 2024 renovation, the infinity pool at La Cigale Gammarth hotel just outside Tunis has become one of Tunisia’s most sought-after Instagram spots. The pool appears to merge with the Mediterranean beyond, and the minimalist white architecture creates a perfect frame.

You don’t actually need to stay at this luxury hotel to capture the famous infinity pool shot. Order a drink at the pool bar (admittedly expensive at 25 dinars/$8.10 for a cocktail) and you can access the pool area during non-peak hours. The security guards understand the appeal to photographers and are generally accommodating as long as you’re a paying customer and don’t disturb guests.

21. The New Contemporary Art Installation at Djerba

Djerbahood, an open-air street art museum on the island of Djerba, has been attracting photographers for years. But in 2024, they unveiled a dramatic new installation called “Reflection” featuring hundreds of mirrors arranged in a spiral pattern on the beach, created by Tunisian artist Nadia Kaabi-Linke.

The installation changes dramatically throughout the day as it captures different light conditions, making it worth visiting both at morning and sunset. The mirrors are specifically arranged to create perfect symmetry on the 21st of June and December (solstices), making these dates particularly special for photographers.

Making the Most of Your Tunisia Photography Trip

After seven trips across Tunisia, I’ve learned that creating stunning images here requires more than just knowing where to point your camera. Understanding the culture, planning around the light, and connecting with locals all contribute to more authentic and compelling photography.

5-Step Action Plan for Your Tunisia Photography Adventure:

Plan your itinerary seasonally – The desert south is best photographed from October-April when temperatures are bearable, while coastal areas shine from May-September with vivid blue waters.
Learn basic Arabic photography phrases – “Mumkin sura?” (May I take a photo?) and “Shukran!” (Thank you!) will go a long way in creating positive interactions.
Travel light but prepared – Tunisia’s diverse environments can be challenging for equipment. Bring lens cleaning supplies for desert dust, polarizing filters for the intense Mediterranean sunlight, and a lightweight tripod for low-light situations.
Connect with local photographers – Join the Facebook group “Photography in Tunisia” to connect with local photographers who often share lesser-known locations and sometimes offer to meet up.
Respect cultural sensitivities – Always ask before photographing people, dress modestly (especially in rural areas), and be aware of religious customs during Ramadan when photography around people eating or drinking can be inappropriate.

My Biggest Money-Saving Hack: Rather than buying a local SIM card (expensive for tourists at 45 dinars/$15 for limited data), download the maps.me app and the offline Tunisia map before your trip. All the photography locations mentioned in this guide are accessible without mobile data if you plan ahead.

Photography FAQs for Tunisia

Is it safe to travel around Tunisia with expensive camera equipment?

Yes, Tunisia is generally very safe for photographers. I’ve traveled extensively with my full-frame camera, several lenses, and a drone without issues. Common-sense precautions apply: use a non-descript camera bag, don’t leave equipment unattended, and be discreet in crowded areas. The biggest risk is actually environmental – protect your gear from sand in desert regions and salt spray near the coast.

Do I need permits to photograph in Tunisia?

For most tourist photography, no permits are required. However, avoid photographing military installations, police checkpoints, and government buildings, as this can lead to questioning. Some archaeological sites charge a small fee (5-10 dinars/$1.60-$3.25) for professional photography equipment like tripods. Drones are technically regulated, but enforcement is inconsistent – I’ve found it’s usually fine in remote areas but avoid flying in cities or near airports.

What’s the best time of year for photography in Tunisia?

This depends entirely on what you want to photograph. For desert landscapes, November-March offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful low-angled winter light. For vibrant coastal scenes, May-October provides the most intensely blue Mediterranean waters. Spring (April-May) brings wildflowers to the northern regions, creating beautiful foreground elements. I personally prefer the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when you can comfortably photograph both north and south regions.

How should I dress as a photographer in Tunisia?

Tunisia is relatively progressive compared to other countries in the region, but respectful dress is still appreciated, especially in rural areas. As a general rule, keep shoulders covered and avoid very short shorts/skirts. In beach resorts, standard Western swimwear is completely acceptable. When photographing in religious sites, women should bring a scarf to cover their hair if requested (though this is rarely required except in active mosques).

Can I photograph local people?

Tunisians have varied attitudes toward being photographed. In tourist areas, many people are accustomed to cameras, but it’s always respectful to ask first. Learn the phrase “Mumkin sura?” (May I take a photo?) A smile and gesturing with your camera is usually understood if language is a barrier. Some people may decline, particularly older women, and this should always be respected. Others might ask for a small tip, especially in tourist areas. Street photography capturing general scenes is usually fine without explicit permission.

What photography accessories are essential for Tunisia?

Based on my experiences, I recommend: a polarizing filter to cut glare and enhance the blues of sky and sea; a sturdy but lightweight tripod for low-light situations; plenty of lens cleaning supplies for desert dust; a good camera backpack with rain cover (occasional downpours happen, particularly in northern regions); and extra batteries as charging opportunities can be limited in remote areas. A zoom lens with wide range (something like 24-105mm) is ideal for travel flexibility.