Feeling prepared, not worried
It’s understandable that headlines and past events might leave parents wondering: is Tunis safe for families?
We hear this often. And the honest answer is when travelling with care, Tunis and Tunisia’s coastal resorts are generally considered safe for tourists. Many official Tunisia travel advice for families pages now reflect this too.
At Verdi, we believe in travelling smart, not scared. So instead of worry, we suggest preparation: stay alert, know your surroundings, and let us help you explore with ease.
Is Tunis safe for families right now?
Let’s look at current advice. Most governments say Tunisia remains under a state of emergency, but this often translates to more visible security (like checkpoints and police presence), not to everyday danger.
So, is Tunis safe? Yes, with awareness. The capital and tourist areas remain open, welcoming, and full of visitors. Official Tunisia travel advice still advises caution, especially in remote areas, but doesn’t discourage travel to Tunis itself.
Risks include:
- A managed terrorism risk (rare but not zero),
- Pickpocketing and petty crime, especially in markets and busy areas,
- Occasional demonstrations, which should be avoided.
Stay informed by bookmarking your country’s official advice pages, like the UK FCDO, before and during your trip.
Choosing family-friendly areas to stay in Tunis
Let’s get to the good part: the best Tunis neighbourhoods for tourists with kids.
- Central Tunis, around Avenue Habib Bourguiba and the Medina, is lively and well-patrolled. Expect souks, cafés and history in one buzzing bundle.
- Carthage, La Marsa, and Sidi Bou Said offer a more laid-back vibe. Coastal, café-lined, and slightly upscale, they’re ideal for families wanting space and sea air.
Each area has great access to sights and public transport. They’re dotted with parks, promenades and ice-cream stops ideal for small explorers.
Verdi Tunis Beach Resort is perfectly placed to reach both the heart of the old city and the coastal gems. When choosing where to stay in Tunis with family, that balance matters.
Areas and situations to approach with caution
Like any capital city, Tunis at night has areas best navigated with care. We suggest families avoid:
- Outer districts unfamiliar to tourists
- Dimly lit backstreets
- The busy zones around major bus terminals after dark
During the day, these areas can be perfectly fine—but in the evenings, stick to well-lit, central spots. Avoid large football crowds or political demonstrations, which can shift in mood quickly.
Most Tunis crimes targeting tourists are pickpocketing or bag-snatching. Rarely violent, but best avoided by keeping items secure and visible.
Instead of walking long distances at night with children, use registered taxis or trusted app services easily arranged by your hotel.
Getting around Tunis safely with children
Getting around Tunis with kids is easier when you know your options.
- Taxis in Tunis are plentiful and affordable. Choose yellow, metered ones, check the meter is running, and carry small notes. Your hotel can book a trusted taxi.
- The TGM (light rail) runs to the coast. Great for day trips to Carthage or Sidi Bou Said. Trains are generally safe, but avoid very crowded carriages during rush hour.
- Walking in central areas is often enjoyable but note that pavements can be uneven, and crossings a little unpredictable. Always hold hands, and model cautious crossing.
Families often ask about child seats. Most taxis don’t have them, so consider bringing a portable booster.
Everyday safety: money, bags and common scams
Tunis is friendly, but like any city, petty theft and distraction scams can happen – especially in the medina or crowded markets.
Common Tunis scams include:
- “Friendly” guides insisting you need help
- Taxi drivers refusing to use meters
- Souvenir stalls with no visible pricing
Stay safe with these habits:
- Use a cross-body bag and keep it zipped
- Leave passports in your hotel safe
- Carry just one card and split your cash
- Keep phones off café tables, especially near the edge
“If someone offers help or tries to sell something and you want to politely decline, a simple ‘La, shukran’ (No, thank you) works perfectly.”
Health, food and climate: keeping kids comfortable
If you’re travelling with children, here are our top health tips for Tunisia travel:
- The sun can be strong even in spring. Use high SPF, wear hats, and plan shade breaks—especially during archaeological trips like Carthage or El Jem.
- Drink bottled water only. Even in good restaurants, we suggest avoiding ice and raw salads unless you’re confident in the kitchen’s hygiene.
- Keep hand sanitiser handy, and bring a small first-aid kit with rehydration salts, plasters, and basic meds.
Tunis has good pharmacies and clinics, but for anything serious, ensure you have Tunisia travel insurance and know who to call. Digital backups of documents (like passports) are a must.
Cultural comfort: dress, behaviour and local norms
Tunis is fairly relaxed but remains more traditional than many European cities.
Here’s how to feel at ease:
- Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques in Tunis or older districts
- Wear modest swimwear off the beach
- Keep alcohol to licensed venues
Locals are generally kind and welcoming but it helps if older kids understand the basics of polite behaviour. We suggest:
- Asking before photographing people
- Using a few Arabic or French words
- Respecting prayer times
What to do if something goes wrong
If you run into issues, don’t panic. Here’s what to do:
- Save key emergency numbers in Tunisia (Police: 197, Ambulance: 190)
- Keep hotel, airline, insurer and embassy details close
- Report thefts to the local police, and file a report for your Tunis travel insurance claims
Make digital copies of all key documents and store them safely.
If you need help translating, reporting a theft or finding a doctor, our team at Verdi is always here—whether that means calling a taxi, or walking you through a clinic visit.
How Verdi Hotels helps families feel secure in Tunis
We believe that a good hotel does more than provide a bed—it anchors your whole trip.
At Verdi Hotels in Tunis, we offer:
- A central, safe location
- 24/7 reception for late arrivals or emergencies
- Staff who can recommend safe areas in Tunis for families, buggy-friendly routes, and reputable taxis
Looking for easy airport transfers, local SIM cards or trusted guides? We’ve got you.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Tunis with your family, we’d love to be your starting point.
Confident, informed and ready to explore
So, is Tunis safe for families? With local insight, smart planning, and support from your hotel, yes, it can be.
Combining official Tunisia travel advice with day-to-day tips creates a powerful mix of knowledge and confidence.
Picture this: a morning in the medina, a calm ride on the TGM to Sidi Bou Said, your child trying out a few Arabic phrases with a smiling shopkeeper.
Tunis has plenty of magic. And Verdi Tunis Beach Resort is here to help you uncover it thoughtfully, warmly, and always with connection at its heart.
