Se hva du kan gjøre og oppleve i Monastir

Monastir was founded in the 9th century on the ruins of the Punic-Roman city of Ruspina. Traditionally a fishing port, the city today is a largely purpose-built tourist town of pristine streets and lavish landscaping. However, you will also find a well-preserved old fortress, the Ribat, located right on the waterfront. Home to a Museum of Islamic Art and Artefacts, this is the main historical attraction of Monastir, along with the impressive golden-domed Bourguiba Mosque. The combination of the Ribat’s ancient atmosphere fused with a modern resort complex makes Monastir a very popular destination among travelers looking for a beach holiday with an accent on tradition. You will enjoy great promenades along the marina in the shade of the walls, with on one side a glimpse of the bluest Mediterranean and on the other side open air terraces of hotels, coffee houses and restaurants. Most of Monastir’s tourist hotels are situated 5 to 6 km (3 to 4 miles) west of the town center at Skanes, close to the airport. The beaches are great; Skanes and Dkhila being the finest, with sand and very clean water. You will enjoy many sea sport activities such as sailing, windsurfing, underwater sightseeing and much more. If you have time, a day tour to discover ancient Roman, Arab, Berber or Phoenician sites is recommended. Or pay a visit to the cities of Sousse or Kairouan, where you will taste the real flavor of North African culture.

You will find a well preserved old fortress, the Ribat, located right on the waterfront and restored many times. Home to a Museum of Islamic Art and Artefacts, this is the main historical attraction of Monastir, along with the impressive golden-domed Bourguiba Mosque. The combination of the Ribat’s ancient atmosphere fused with a modern resort complex makes Monastir a very popular destination among travellers looking for a beach holiday with an accent on tradition.

The food in Monastir and Tunisia is largely based on olive oil and spices. The national dish is the famous Berber couscous: durum wheat steamed and soaked in a sauce. It can be made with vegetables, fish, fresh or dried octopus, beef, veal and lamb. You will find plenty of good restaurants in the old town and the marina.

There are plenty of cafes in Monastir, almost all hotels have a coffee and in the bazaars you´ll find both coffee and the traditional mint tea. Following are a few addresses to cafes in Monastir, you will probably find your favorite hang out easily just walking down the street. Why not try some shisha to your tea?

In Monastir, most of the entertainment is hotel-based. You will find a wide range of western style bars and discos to have a good time, including Arabian feasts and floorshows; they’re about all the same. The real hub of nightlife is in the neighboring resorts of Sousse (Skanes area).

If you like haggling, you will enjoy shopping in Monastir! Start by cutting the offer in half, and then work your way up to a compromise if you are really interested. If you prefer fixed prices at the controlled handicrafts shops, try just outside the Medina or if you have time the large Soula Centre in Sousse.