Overview
The largest island in North Africa, Djerba lies in the Gulf of Gabès, linked to the mainland by a causeway of ancient origin and by a ferry. Known as the island of dreams, it charms visitors with its soft light, fine sandy beaches, centuries-old olive trees and whitewashed houses, called houchs, built around a central courtyard. Its island heritage has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2023.
Djerba is also a land of coexistence: Ibadi and Maliki Muslim communities and one of the oldest Jewish communities in the Arab world have lived side by side here for centuries. Between the lively market of Houmt Souk, the potters' workshops of Guellala, the street art murals of Erriadh and the long hotel-lined northeast coast, the island suits families, culture lovers and beach lovers alike.
What to see
Houmt Souk
The island's capital is a maze of white lanes, old caravanserais (fondouks) turned into workshops and covered souks. The fishing harbour and fish auction offer an authentic scene in the morning.
Borj el Kebir (Borj Ghazi Mustapha)
This seafront fort at the edge of Houmt Souk was enlarged in the 16th century and was the scene of the 1560 siege between the corsair Dragut and the Spanish. Its ramparts offer fine views of the coast.
El Ghriba Synagogue
In Erriadh, El Ghriba is one of the oldest synagogues in Africa and a major place of pilgrimage. Its interior of blue tiles and painted woodwork is remarkably delicate.
Djerbahood in Erriadh
Since 2014, artists from around the world have covered the walls of Erriadh village with murals, turning its lanes into an open-air museum. An ideal stroll in the late afternoon.
Guellala, the potters' village
In the south of the island, Guellala keeps alive a thousand-year-old tradition of pottery made from local clay and fired in half-buried kilns. Its heritage museum showcases Djerbian costumes, rituals and crafts.
Ibadi mosques
The island has hundreds of small, plain white mosques, some fortified and some underground. The Fadhloun Mosque near Midoun is a fine example of this unique architecture.
Things to do
- Boat trip to Flamingo IslandBoat outings head to the Ras Rmel peninsula, a sandbank where pink flamingos can sometimes be spotted. Swimming and a grilled fish lunch are usually part of the trip.
- Horse or camel ridesAlong the beaches of the tourist zone, horse rides and camel treks let you discover the coast at a gentle pace.
- Water sportsKitesurfing, windsurfing, jet-skiing and parasailing are popular on the east coast, where steady winds and shallow waters make for good conditions.
- Thalassotherapy and wellnessDjerba is one of Tunisia's leading thalassotherapy destinations, with many spa centres within the resort complexes of the tourist zone.
- Exploring by bike or quadThe island's flat terrain is perfect for cycling between olive groves, menzels and villages. Quad tours also head to the wilder southeast.
Beaches & nature
The northeast coast, from Sidi Mahrez to Aghir, has the finest white sandy beaches, with calm, shallow waters ideal for children. Inland, the island reveals a rural landscape of palm trees, olive groves and menzels, while the lagoon and the Ras Rmel peninsula attract many migratory birds, including pink flamingos.
Food & local specialities
Djerbian cuisine celebrates seafood, gentle spices and the island's own olive oil.
Where to stay
Tourist zone (Sidi Mahrez, Aghir)
For families and beach holidays, with large beachfront resorts and plenty of activities.
Houmt Souk
For curious travellers, staying in former caravanserais or guesthouses at the heart of local life.
Erriadh and the island interior
For couples and those seeking calm, in traditional houchs converted into guesthouses.
Shopping & markets
Houmt Souk is the island's shopping heart: souks selling silver jewellery, carpets, woven wool blankets (the famous Djerbian blankets), leather and spices. Guellala is the ideal place to buy pottery directly from the artisans. The lively weekly markets of Houmt Souk and Midoun mix local produce, clothing and handicrafts.
Getting there
By plane
Djerba-Zarzis International Airport, west of Houmt Souk, receives flights from Tunis and many European cities, especially in season.
By ferry
A ferry links Jorf on the mainland to Ajim in about fifteen minutes; waits can be long in summer.
By car
The Roman causeway of El Kantara, about 7 km long, connects the island to Zarzis; allow around 6 hours by road from Tunis.
By bus
Long-distance buses connect Houmt Souk with Tunis and the country's main cities.
By louage (shared taxi)
Louages (shared taxis) leave Houmt Souk for Gabès, Médenine, Tataouine, Sfax and Tunis.
Getting around
The most convenient options are a rental car or taxis, which are plentiful between the tourist zone, Houmt Souk and the airport. Local buses serve the main villages. Cycling and scooters are pleasant thanks to the flat terrain, and a small tourist train runs through the hotel zone.
Day trips nearby
Zarzis
A quiet seaside resort with olive-lined beaches, about 45 km away via the El Kantara causeway.
Matmata
A Berber village with troglodyte dwellings dug into the ground, about 2 hours' drive via the Jorf ferry.
Tataouine and its ksour
Fortified granaries and hilltop villages such as Chenini, about 2 hours' drive via Médenine.
Our tips
- Visit El Ghriba in clothing that covers shoulders and legs; a shawl is often lent at the entrance.
- In summer, take the ferry early in the morning or use the El Kantara causeway to avoid queues.
- Bargain with a smile in the souks of Houmt Souk; it is part of the custom.
- Rent a bicycle to explore the inland villages and the Ibadi mosques.
FAQ
Is Djerba suitable for families?
Yes, its fine sandy beaches with shallow waters and its many resorts with entertainment make it an ideal destination for children.
How many days do you need to visit Djerba?
Three days are enough for the main sights, but a week lets you enjoy the beaches and take a trip to the south.
Can you visit El Ghriba Synagogue?
Yes, it is open to visitors outside of services, with appropriate dress. It hosts a major pilgrimage every spring.
How do you get to Djerba from Tunis?
The quickest way is to fly, about a 1-hour flight. By road, allow around 6 hours by car, bus or louage.
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