Things To Do
in Zaghouan
Zaghouan is a scenic hill town in northern Tunisia set among olive groves and pine forests. The town sits at the foot of the Zaghouan Mountains and is known for its Roman-era ruins and natural springs. Its cool highland climate provides a refreshing escape from the coastal heat, and the surrounding countryside invites hiking and rural exploration.
Visitors discover ancient sites, winding souks, and warm Tunisian hospitality just a short drive from Tunis.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zaghouan and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Tunisian pastries. Take in the surrounding landscapes and prepare for your adventure ahead.
Explore the town’s vibrant souk, where you can find local crafts and spices. Visit the fascinating Museum of Islamic Art to gain insights into Tunisia’s rich cultural heritage. Stroll through the nearby olive groves and take in the serene atmosphere.
Dine at a local restaurant, experiencing the sumptuous flavors of Tunisian cuisine. Engage with local residents and soak in the evening ambiance of the town. Wrap up the day with a relaxing walk under the starry sky.
After breakfast, head to the impressive Aqueduct of Zaghouan, one of the most significant ancient sites in the region. Marvel at the engineering feat that once supplied water to Carthage. Spend time roaming the remains and taking photos of this historical marvel.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the ruins, surrounded by the stunning landscape. Join a guided tour to learn more about the aqueduct's fascinating history and its connection to the Roman Empire. Wander through the nearby hills for a breathtaking view of the town.
Return to Zaghouan and relax at your accommodation. Consider trying a traditional cooking class that evening. This will allow you to learn how to prepare classic Tunisian dishes while enjoying the local atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚶Local transport (short ride) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic items for a week) | $15-30 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room (per night) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and easy access to nature
- Rich Roman heritage and intriguing ruins
- Calm pace of life with warm hospitality
- Close to Tunis for day trips and city amenities
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions
- Public transport can be sparse outside town center
- Smaller scale services and some facilities may be basic
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadhlik" - Please
- "Kam thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Zaghouan
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient Roman water temple ruins perched on a hill with sweeping views over Zaghouan valley, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Well-preserved stones and columns in the town center area offer a classic backdrop for urban archaeology photography.
Clear vistas across olive groves and the Zaghouan mountains, ideal for panoramic shots at golden hour.
Water and sky reflections during calm days provide serene landscape photographs.
Food in Zaghouan
Zaghouan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fluffy semolina grains topped with slowly braised lamb and seasonal vegetables, often served with a rich broth and harissa on the side.
Must-Try!
A thin pastry filled with egg and herbs, fried until crisp; commonly enjoyed as a savory starter or snack.
A spicy tomato-based stew with peppers, eggs, and merguez sausage, typically served with bread for dipping.
Grilled peppers and tomatoes chopped with onions, garlic, and olive oil; often eaten as a mezze or side dish.
A garbanzo bean soup flavored with cumin, harissa, and olive oil, served over or with stale bread and a drizzle of lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can taste olives, olives oil, fresh bread, spices, and local produce, plus small street snacks from vendors.
Grilled meats, corn on the cob, and simple pastries offered around the market area; generous portions and affordable prices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Salam and a handshake or light kiss of the cheek, depending on familiarity. Dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites; remove shoes where required and ask before taking photos of people.
Public displays of affection are discouraged in rural areas. Use your right hand for handshakes and eating; avoid criticizing local customs openly.
Safety
Tipping in Zaghouan
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included. A small tip of 5–10% in restaurants is customary if the service is good. Tip guides, drivers, and cafe staff with small denominations when appropriate.
Cash in Tunisian dinars is widely preferred. Some hotels and larger shops may accept cards; ATMs are common in towns, but carry some cash for rural areas and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with refreshing mountain breezes in higher elevations. Hydrate, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild temperatures and clear skies; excellent for long hikes and photography as light is soft and landscape colors begin to warm.
Cool to mild with occasional rain; layers are essential. Some trails may be slippery after rain, so wear sturdy footwear.
Greener landscapes with blooming wildflowers; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography with vibrant scenery.
Zaghouan at Night
Hiking in Zaghouan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic ridge offering panoramic views over olive groves and farmlands, with trails ranging from easy walks to more demanding hikes.
Gentle to moderate routes through valleys and woodlands, perfect for wildlife watching and photography.
Airports
How to reach Zaghouan by plane.
The main international gateway to Tunisia, located near Tunis. From Zaghouan, expect roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive depending on traffic.
A secondary international airport further south; useful for regional connections but farther from Zaghouan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Tunisian Arabs and Berbers living in a rural-urban mix, with strong community ties and traditional customs.
Tourists attracted by Roman ruins, scenic mountains, and rural Tunisian life; modest tourism infrastructure supports day trips and overnight stays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Tunisia, with local clubs and informal matches common in towns like Zaghouan.
Active visitors and locals frequently run or hike the mountain trails for fitness and scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zaghouan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature meat; look for Mechouia, vegetable couscous, and brik without egg or meat fillings. Ask about harissa and broth usage, and request vegetable-forward options when possible.