Things To Do
in Testour
Testour is a hilltop town in northern Tunisia known for its Andalusian heritage and white-washed houses. It sits in a fertile valley, surrounded by olive groves and citrus orchards that color the landscape. The Medina preserves narrow lanes, blue doors, and crafts workshops that reflect centuries of cultural exchange.
Visitors come to wander its atmospheric streets, sample local cuisine, and use Testour as a gateway to the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the ancient site of Testour, where you can wander through narrow streets and admire the unique Moorish architecture. Don't miss the picturesque settings around the Great Mosque, where you can soak in the ambience of the local morning. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and mint tea.
After lunch, explore the surrounding olive groves and take part in an olive oil tasting tour, witnessing the traditional methods used for centuries. Experience the local culture as you interact with farmers and gain insights into the significance of olive oil in Tunisian cuisine. Consider visiting a nearby craft shop to pick up unique handmade souvenirs.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic pathways of the town, allowing the warm evening light to enhance the beauty of the architecture and landscape. Dine at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like couscous or brik while overlooking the enchanting view of the countryside. Conclude your day with a visit to a local café to sip on traditional Tunisian coffee.
Start your day with a hike in the nearby hills, where breathtaking views of the Medjerda Valley await you. The cool morning air and the sound of chirping birds provide the perfect backdrop as you connect with nature. Enjoy a packed breakfast in a scenic spot to fully embrace the tranquility of the landscape.
After your hike, return to Testour for a relaxing afternoon visit to a local park, where you can unwind amidst gardens and fountains. Pack a picnic and take the opportunity to enjoy lunch under the shade of trees, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. You may also wish to interact with locals more, perhaps joining a traditional afternoon game of dominos.
For your evening, immerse yourself in a cultural experience by attending a local festival or music event, if available. Revel in the sounds and vibrant colors of Tunisian culture as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers. To wrap up the day, treat yourself to traditional desserts at a popular local patisserie.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥖Bread loaf (per loaf) | $0.40-0.70 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-45 |
| 🚆Local bus or shared taxi ticket | $0.50-2 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Andalusian heritage and architecture
- Warm hospitality and safe for travelers
- Delicious regional Tunisian cuisine and markets
- Compact town easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and English widely spoken only in tourist areas
- Fewer accommodations and services outside the main streets
- Can be hot in summer; plan for outdoor daytime activities
- Travel to larger cities required for some attractions or higher-end amenities
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "لا أفهم" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Testour
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow, shaded lanes with whitewashed walls, carved doors, and hanging lanterns.
Colorful doors and courtyard arches reflecting Testour’s Andalusian heritage, best at dawn or dusk.
Panoramic views of the valley and olive groves surrounding the town.
Food in Testour
Testour Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin pastry filled with egg and tuna or vegetables, fried crisp and often dipped in oil.
Must-Try!
A fragrant staple topped with a hearty vegetable and meat stew.
A warming chickpea soup seasoned with harissa and olive oil, served with bread.
Roasted pepper, tomato, onion salad with olive oil and optionally tuna.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market where you can sample olives, dates, spices, cheeses, and fresh produce.
Stalls offering brik, grilled seafood, and Tunisian snacks to eat on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and in more conservative areas; shoulders and knees should be covered.
A warm handshake is common; in casual settings, greetings may include a light kiss on the cheek among friends.
Use the right hand for eating and handing items; avoid showing the soles of your feet when sitting.
Safety
Tipping in Testour
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service: 5-10% in restaurants if the service charge isn’t included; small tips to guides or hotel staff are appreciated. Cash is widely accepted in Testour; many places in town also accept credit cards, especially restaurants and larger shops, but always carry some dinars for smaller stalls and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for walking and photography.
Hot and dry; plan early morning activities and stay hydrated; seek shade in the medina.
Pleasant days with harvest season in local orchards; comfortable for outdoor exploring.
Milder, with some rain; pack a light jacket and waterproofs for outdoor strolls.
Testour at Night
Hiking in Testour
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cedars and pine forests with well-marked trails suitable for day hikes and nature walks.
Accessible routes through olive groves and terraced fields near Testour, with scenic sunset views.
Airports
How to reach Testour by plane.
Main international gateway to Tunisia; about a 60-90 minute drive to Testour depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The population is predominantly Tunisian Arabs with Berber influences, largely practicing Islam with local customs.
A small number of French and other expatriates live in the region, mainly in service roles and for seasonal work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Tunisia, played in towns and schools.
A social pastime in many towns and outdoor cafes.
Widely played in schools and clubs; occasional local matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Testour.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available, including mechouia, salads, and vegetable couscous; ask for no harissa if sensitive to spice.