In Monastir, the sun's always up for a party, the beaches are just begging for some sandcastle action, and it's got the kind of history that's way cooler than the textbooks.
Ancient forts to add some cultured balance to your beach jolly
Killer views, thanks to the Ribat of Monastir (cameras at the ready!)
Home to its own marina if you fancy some yacht-spotting
What are the best beaches in Monastir?
Beaches and budget-friendly holidays go together like sun cream and sunglasses. Well, Monastir's got some gems that won't cost you a penny to enjoy. Here's the lowdown on some of the top spots:
Skanes Beach - soft, bronzy sands that go on forever (so it seems) - perfect for families, sun-seekers, and anyone looking to dip their toes in some glassy-clear water
Palm Beach - a chilled stretch of coast for all you sunbathers, with fine sand, still waters and a bunch of surrounding palm trees for that 'tropical' feel (hence the name!)
Monastir Beach - the namesake beach has always gotta get a mention, and this one's got the three Bs going on: bustling, beaut, and brimming with cafes and restaurants if you're craving a bev or a cheeky ice cream
Rihanna Beach - you can stand under my (beach) umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh...you get the gist. It might not be named after the singer, but this place is just as fabulous, and just as VIP! It's on its own island so takes a bit of a trek to reach, but the unspoilt sands and snorkelling opportunities are SO worth it.
Cap Marina Beach - a little bit breezy, a little bit swanky and a whole lot boujee - this place has everything you need, including views of the marina where the yachts are within bobbing distance.
Bella Vista Beach - just like the name suggests, the views here are pretty 10/10, and this is the place to be if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet time with your book, or just your own intrusive thoughts. You do you.
What are the top hotels in Monastir?
Looking for the dreamiest sleeps in the whole of Monastir? Whether you're a dynamic duo looking for a couples' holiday or you're bringing the whole squad along for some family fun, check out these showstoppers:
Sahara Beach Aquapark Resort - couldn't be closer to the beach if it tried (check the pics if you don't believe us), with a bunch of lagoon pools to dunk into, a seasonal waterpark and a ton of food and drink options - including an on-site creperie!
Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace - swanky with a side of waterslides - think poolside Bali beds, fancy rooms, an on-site spa and a delish choice of food to tuck into at breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Jaz Tour Khalef - forget poolside Bali beds, this place has them literally IN the pool, so you can dip your toes in while you sunbathe. It's also right by the beach (naturally), and has plenty of entertainment for the kiddos.
Phenicia Hotel - bursting at the seams with pools, loungers, activities for the whole fam, and delish Tunisian and Asian bites in the restaurants.
Movenpick Resort & Marine Spa Sousse - a 5-star beaut with absolutely MEGA beachfront views, a chilled pool area, a bunch of activities to get stuck into, and a ton of bars and restaurants to pick from on site.
Stunning Monastir resorts
Weather in Monastir
JAN
15°C
FEB
16°C
MAR
17°C
APR
20°C
MAY
23°C
JUN
27°C
JUL
30°C
AUG
31°C
SEP
30°C
OCT
25°C
NOV
20°C
DEC
16°C
Monastir, with its Mediterranean mojo, serves up weather that's as inviting as a dip in the sea. Which is fitting, because you'll probably be doing a lot of that. Think sunny days, with summer stretching its legs from May through to October, offering up temperatures around the 30°C mark - perfect for beach bums and sun-worshippers.
Winters? Think mild and manageable, hovering around 10-15°C, making Monastir a cosy escape when the rest of Europe shivers its timbers. Spring and autumn are the real show-offs, though, boasting comfortable mid-20s temps and fewer crowds, ideal for exploring or lounging by the sea (why not a bit of both?). Rain checks in mainly during winter, but even then, it’s often just a quick spray of drizzle before the sun takes back centre stage.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Monastir?
It takes around 3 hours to fly to Monastir from the UK/Ireland, which is just enough time to catch a film with some bonus snooze time. Winner.
What's the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Monastir?
The local time in Monastir is one hour ahead of the UK/Ireland, so you don't have to worry too much about jet lag throwing you off your game.
What currency do they use in Monastir?
The local currency in Monastir is the Dinar (pronounced dee-nar).
What language do they speak in Monastir?
The most commonly-spoken local language throughout Tunisia is Arabic - but don't worry, most major resorts will be fluent in English, so don't panic too much about cramming in a bunch of Duolingo lessons before you go. (Unless you want to, of course. Gotta keep the streak up.)
Can you drink in Monastir?
Yes, although Tunisia is a Muslim country, you can readily buy and consume alcohol - especially at tourist resorts and in hotels.
Get your art head on at Gallery Espressioni
Expect displays from local artists, art and design fairs, and even concerts sometimes! The arts and crafts sold are all made by locals, and you can pop in the café for a coffee and chat with a dash of culture.
Get your adrenaline pumping at Spring Land
A fun-filled amusement park with racing cars, kid-friendly coasters, floating rapids and more - plus a café for delish meals and drinks. Choose the order in which you do those things wisely, though.
Get lost in the old Medina
Monastir's Medina or 'Old Town' to you and me, is like a maze of cobbled streets with historic architecture, authentic souks and shops selling everything from spices to textiles.
Get a hole-in-one at Golf Flamingo
This 18-hole golf course is smack-dab in the middle of the city, with well-maintained grounds, around 2,000 olive trees, three water holes, seven cliff holes and a sloped green. Apparently, to someone who plays golf, that means quite a lot. There's also a clubhouse for everything you need - including equipment rental and dining options.
Get your history fix at the Amphitheater of El Jem
Roman colosseum who? This place is about an hour's drive from the centre of Monastir (in the modern-day city of El Djem), but it's well worth it if you like your history the way you like your Insta feed - aesthetic. This oval amphitheatre has been listed as an UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, and it's an absolute beaut.
Get on your bike
Monastir has dedicated promenades and cycling routes right along the coast, so getting in some pedal time is a doddle. You'll also find places to rent your two-wheel ride from -so don't worry about trying to squeeze one in your suitcase, Mary Poppins-style.
What events can I go to in Monastir?
In Monastir, the calendar's as vibrant as a souk on a busy day. Every season rolls out the red carpet for festivals that dazzle and delight. Ready to mark your calendar? Here we go...
The Ksibah Spring Festival (March/April) - welcome spring with open arms at this lively event. It's a blend of cultural exhibitions, traditional music, and dance that showcases the rich heritage of Monastir.
Monastir International Film Festival (April) - film buffs, rejoice! This festival rolls out the red carpet for international and local flicks. It's your ticket to cinematic adventures under the Tunisian stars.
Summer Festival of Monastir (July/August) - summer in Monastir means nights filled with concerts, beach parties, and theatrical performances. It's the ultimate contrast of warm weather and cool tunes.
The Festival of the Sea (August) - salute the sea with this maritime festival. Expect boat races, seafood galore, and activities that celebrate Monastir's bond with the blue beyond.
Raid des Sables (October) - for the adventurers, this off-road rally through the sands offers adrenaline and scenery in equal measure. It's a test of endurance and a feast for the eyes.
The Olive Harvest Festival (November/December) - celebrate the olive - a staple of Tunisian cuisine - with tastings, folk dances, and a look at the local olive oil production process, which we promise is more interesting than it sounds.
Where's the best nightlife in Monastir?
Monastir's nightlife is a vibrant blend of Mediterranean breezes and Tunisian rhythms, perfect for when the night calls for a bit of spice. From beach bars to chic lounges, here's where the magic happens:
Living Bar Monastir - this spot is the heartbeat of Monastir's nightlife, where the tunes are always fresh and the crowd's always ready to dance. It's the place to be if you're looking to mingle and move.
Safari Pub - dive into the wild side at Safari Pub, where themed nights bring the jungle to the beach. It's quirky, it's fun, and it's unforgettable. (Depending how many shots of boukha you have.)
The Lemon Bar - sip cocktails with a twist at this chic spot. With its sleek design and refreshing drinks menu, it's the ideal place to chill and chat under the stars.
Plaza Beach Club - beach by day, club by night, Plaza Beach Club offers the best of both worlds. Dance with your toes in the sand to DJ sets that keep the summer vibe going all year long.
Coco Beach Club - a little slice of paradise where you can lounge on swanky daybeds by the sea, then party the night away as the DJ cranks up the volume. It's classy, it's cool, and it screams holiday mode.
High Square Rooftop - for those who like their drinks with a view, High Square Rooftop offers stunning vistas of Monastir by night. It's the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a boujee night out with friends.
The Saloon Pub - channel your inner cowboy at The Saloon Pub, a western-themed bar that's as much about the ambiance as it is about the drinks. Yee-haw!
Brooklyn Bar - a slice of New York in Monastir, where the urban chic décor and innovative cocktails make for a trendy night out. It's the spot to see and be seen.
What's the food like in Monastir?
Prepare to embark on a taste adventure where spices meet the sea, and every dish tells a story. Here's the scoop on the must-eats of Monastir:
Couscous – a cultural icon! Tuck into these steamed semolina grains served with a hearty stew of meat and veggies.
Brik à l'œuf – a crispy, thin pastry wrapped around a whole egg, tuna, capers, and herbs, then deep-fried to perfection. Just trust us on this one. It's the ultimate snack with a crunch that satisfies.
Grilled seafood – with the Mediterranean lapping at its shores, Monastir's seafood is as fresh as it gets. Most menus will serve it grilled to smoky perfection, seasoned with local herbs, and served with lemon for that zesty zing.
Tunisian salad – refreshing, colourful, and bursting with flavours, this salad mixes tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and a plethora of local veggies, topped with tuna and eggs, dressed in olive oil and lemon. It's like a lighter, deconstructed version of the brik à l'œuf.
Chorba – a savory soup that warms your soul, made with tomatoes, herbs, meat, and sometimes pasta or rice. Each slurp is like a comforting, Tunisian hug.
Makroud – sweet-lovers, rejoice! These semolina cakes are stuffed with dates, then fried, and then soaked in honey. They're the delightful squares of joy that no visit to Monastir is complete without. We don't tell the dentist if you don't.
Lablabi – a humble yet flavourful chickpea soup, often enriched with garlic, cumin, and olive oil, served over pieces of stale bread. It's a street food staple that packs a punch.
Places to visit
Ribat of Monastir
When in Monastir, this place is an absolute must-see. Imagine stepping into a real-life fortress that’s been standing tall since the 8th century – it’s like wandering into your very own episode of "Game of Thrones," minus all the dragons and drama, thankfully. This ancient Islamic monastery is all about jaw-dropping views, epic history, and Instagram-worthy snapshots at every turn. Climb up to the watchtower and feast your eyes on the glittering Med, stretching out into forever. History’s never looked this cool, and your Insta followers will thank you for the snaps.
Monastir Marina
Who doesn't love a good marina? Imagine bobbing boats (including yachts for your celeb-spotting urges), sparkling waters, and a vibe so chill, you’ll forget all about your to-do list. It's where the Mediterranean does its magic, mixing up sunshine, sea breezes, and that laidback lifestyle we all crave. Grab a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants (did someone say date night?), slurp on something cool as you watch the sunset, or just meander around and soak up the scenic views. It’s the ultimate spot for that “living my best life” selfie. Honestly, if chilling by a bunch of boats isn’t on your travel bucketlist, you’re missing out.
Bourguiba Mausoleum
This place is basically the Taj Mahal of Tunisia, minus the love story but with all the grandeur. This spot is where Tunisia's first President, Habib Bourguiba, rests - and what a lavish final resting place it is. The mausoleum is all about opulence, with a golden dome that shines blindingly bright, and some seriously intricate architecture that might just make your jaw drop. It's perfect if you love a bit of history with your sightseeing and want to snap some seriously regal-looking photos. This historic landmark is definitely worth a visit if you’re into getting a taste of Tunisia’s modern history, all while feeling like you’ve stepped into an Arabian Nights tale.
Key facts about Monastir
Flight Time
3 hrs
Time Difference
+1 hr
Currency
Dinar
Language
Arabic
Do I need a visa to visit Monastir?
Good news! UK residents don't need a visa when visiting Monastir for less than 90 days.
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Monastir?
We recommend checking with your healthcare provider for all the up-to-date vaccine info before you book your holiday.
Do I need to pay tourist tax on my holiday to Monastir?
From 1st of January 2018, the Tunisian Govt. are charging a sustainable tourism tax on all overnight stays which will be payable on arrival in the hotel for all guests aged 12 or over:
4 & 5-star hotels: 3 Tunisian Dinars per guest, per night (approximately £0.80)
3-star hotels: 2 Tunisian Dinars per guest, per night (approximately £0.55)
2-star hotels: 1 Tunisian Dinar per guest, per night (approximately £0.30)
Is it safe to travel to Monastir?
Monastir as a resort is well-developed for tourists, with extremely secure hotels and standard safety measures beyond - such as well-lit public areas, frequent patrols and security at night for full peace of mind.
Observing Ramadan
Please be aware that the Islamic holy month of Ramadan will take place between 10/03/2024 and 09/04/2024. During this time, eating, drinking and smoking will be restricted to the hours between sunset and sunrise, and visitors are expected to observe these practices in public spaces as a sign of respect, meaning many cafés and restaurants will close during the day, restrictions on alcohol sales may be in place, and hotel dining for non-Muslim guests may take place in private rooms. Playing music, dancing, and eating in public areas may also be restricted during this time.
