What to see & do with your IDP in Tunisia?
With your International Driving Permit in hand, Tunisia opens up as a road-tripper’s dream destination. Compact yet full of surprises, the country offers an incredible range of experiences within just a few hours of driving. Here are some can’t-miss road trips that truly shine when you’re behind the wheel:
1. Coastal Cruise from Tunis to Sidi Bou Said and Carthage
Begin your journey in the capital, then drive just 30 minutes to the cliffside village of Sidi Bou Said. Famous for its blue-and-white architecture, it’s an Instagram dream. Nearby Carthage offers a glimpse into Tunisia’s Roman and Phoenician roots. With your own car, you can linger as long as you like, avoiding the rigid timelines of tour groups.
2. North to South: From Bizerte to Matmata
Start in Bizerte, a lesser-known coastal gem in the north, and wind your way down through lush hills, olive groves, and then shifting landscapes into the desert south. Stop in Kairouan to see Tunisia’s holiest mosque, then continue on to the lunar-like houses of Matmata. An IDP gives you the flexibility to explore places public transport just doesn’t reach.
3. Sahara Gateway: Douz to the Grand Erg Oriental
For true adventure, head to Douz—the “Gateway to the Sahara.” From here, rent a 4×4 and drive into the Grand Erg Oriental’s towering sand dunes. A permit helps you rent appropriate vehicles and handle the roadside checks that are common in desert zones.
4. Mountain Escape: Ain Draham and the Kroumirie Forests
Drive northwest to the Kroumirie Mountains for a cooler, greener escape. Ain Draham offers winding forest roads, cozy lodges, and views that contrast sharply with the desert terrain. This lesser-visited area is best explored by car, and having an IDP ensures your rental and travel documents are in order.
5. Coastal Detour: Mahdia to El Jem
Mahdia’s quiet beaches and old-town charm pair well with a side trip to El Jem, home to one of the world’s largest Roman amphitheaters. A short drive inland connects these two cultural treasures—no need for trains or buses.
Whether you’re chasing ruins, dunes, or seaside sunsets, an IDP ensures your road trip through Tunisia is smooth, spontaneous, and deeply rewarding.