Tataouine and Cheneni: Full-Day Visit from Djerba in Medenine Governorate

Tataouine and Cheneni are two distinct cities located in the Medenine Governorate of Tunisia, located on the eastern coast of Tunisia. Located just a few hours drive away from the popular tourist destination of Djerba, these two towns offer tourists a unique opportunity to experience the local sights and culture of Tunisia. In this guide, we will provide you with a full-day’s worth of activities to explore these two locations, as well as providing helpful tips on how to get to these places, what to expect during your visit, and advice on where to eat and stay.

Getting to Tataouine and Cheneni by car

The most convenient way to get to Tataouine and Cheneni from Djerba is by car. The drive from Djerba to Tataouine takes approximately 1.5-2 hours, while the drive from Tataouine to Cheneni takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. For those who wish to rent a car for their journey, the city of Djerba is surrounded with several car hire companies, such as Avis and Hertz, that offer vehicles of various sizes and types for daily or weekly rentals. As the journey is relatively short, it is recommended to opt for renting a vehicle with air conditioning if available. It is also important to note that it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in Tunisia and that safety belts are mandatory at all times.

Things to do in Tataouine

Tataouine is a lively city with lots to explore. The first stop on our journey is the impressive ruins of the ancient town of Ksar Ouled Soltane. Visitors here will find the largest and most impressive example of its kind in Tunisia, with ancient mud-brick structures still standing today. It is also an important site for archeological research, as the area was occupied by many different civilizations throughout its long history.

Next, we can throw ourselves into the culture of Tataouine through an afternoon of shopping at its bustling markets. While the city center mostly sells food and other daily necessities, adjacent streets are full of vendors selling handmade traditional crafts as well as colorful fabrics and carpets. This is also an ideal place to bargain with the shop owners, who often sell items at competitive prices.

Other attractions in Tataouine worth visiting include Dar Chababi, a 16th-century mansion that has been recently restored and now serves as a museum that showcases local culture and art; Fort Ghoubeir, one of the oldest monuments in the city; and a traditional local hammam (baths), where visitors can indulge in a relaxing steam session.

Things to do in Cheneni

Cheneni is a tranquil coastal city that is known for its sandy beaches and natural beauty. Once you have arrived in the city, the first destination to explore should be the old fort which occupies an important part of Cheneni’s history. Built during the Ottoman period and completely restored in 2020, the fort chronicles some of Cheneni’s most important historical events.

The city also has some fine sandy beaches overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by lush vegetation. The most popular beach is La Grise Beach which offers clear turquoise waters and white sand. Here, visitors can take part in water sports such as swimming, snorkeling and even deep-sea diving if they are so inclined.

In addition to its beaches, Cheneni also has a number of museums and religious sites worth visiting. These include La Botanique & La Archeologie Museum, which showcases archaeological finds from various centuries, The Church Of Saints Peter And Paul, an ancient Greek Orthodox Church that dates back to 18th century, and The Mihrab el Mehdiyine Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Tunisia.

Where to Stay and Eat During Your Visit

If you are looking for accommodation during your visit, there are many options to choose from in both cities. In Tataouine, comfortable hotels include Hotel Myriam, Hôtel Essention Djerba – Tataouine, and Citadelle Hôtel. In Cheneni, some of the top accommodation options are Hotel Riva Palace La Marsa, Eucalyptus Hotel & Spa, and Chenini Village Hotel.

When it comes to eating out in Tataouine, take advantage of its fusion cuisine which blends ingredients from the North African region and Mediterranean cuisine. One popular restaurant is Dar Tayssa which serves modern Tunisian dishes made with ingredients such as couscous and local spices. On the other hand, visitors to Cheneni might want to enjoy some of its seafood delights such as fresh catches of sardines and calamari at La Mediterranee Seafood Restaurant, or sample traditional Tunisian dishes at Ksar Char Bagh Restaurant.

Conclusion

Visiting Tataouine and Cheneni for a full day offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the culture and sights of this Tunisian coastal town. Between sightseeing ancient ruins or magnificent forts, lounging on gorgeous beaches, indulging in authentic cuisine from local restaurants or shopping at vibrant markets; there is something for everyone in these two towns. Be sure to book your visit with GetYourGuide today for access to convenient guided tours that help you make the most of your exploration of Tataouine and Cheneni!