Top 5 Sights to Explore Monastir Tunisia

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My 100th country odyssey continued as we headed on a train south out of Tunis, Tunisia’s capital city. We were heading for the coastal town of Monastir and were pleasantly surprised. As well as being my 100th country, Tunisia was also the first place I decided to try couchsurfing.  Our host in Monastir was Wicem and after meeting him at Monastir train station, we headed out to explore the sights of this surprising city.

Monastir, is a city on the central coast of Tunisia, in the Sahel area. Traditionally a fishing port, Monastir is now a major tourist resort. Its population is about 104,535.

Above photo credit: looklex.

1. Shrine and Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba
This shrine is the reason alone as to why you should visit Habib Bourguiba. Being his home town here in Monastir, Habib’s shrine, mausoleum and museum is a must visit. You’ll get your bags checked on the way in but be ready for a treat.

Outside the Habib Bourguiba shrine

Outside the Habib Bourguiba shrine

Quite simply, as far as Tunisian Independence goes (dating back to 1956) Habib was the man at the forefront of the whole movement. In fact Habib Bourguiba was the First ever Tunisian citizen. When the country became independent in 1956, he had the identity card number 1.

Habib's Tunisian ID card - number ONE!

You also see Habib’s shrine and a mini museum dedicated to his life.

2. Monastir Fort
Sitting proudly by the ocean sits Monastir Fort. Well worth a jaunt for great views and historic architectural relevance.

Monastir Fort, Tunisia

3. The Old Mosque

Monastir like all Tunisian cities has quite a few Mosques, but my favourite was the Old Mosque down by the harbour. Religion stripped down to a building to practice it in.

The Old Mosque in Monastir, Tunisia

The Old Mosque in Monastir, Tunisia

4. Monastir Harbour
Monastir Harbour reminded me of my hometown. The fact is, both Bangor in Northern Ireland and Monastir have an elaborate Marina complex by the sea. The restaurants and cafes around it are licensed and can be pricey.

Gorgeous day at Monastir Harbour, Tunisia

Marina at Monastir

5. Monastir Medina

As with my top sights in Kairouan, the Medina features again. Every Tunisian city has one and Monastirs is your usual mix of tiny poky streets within walls and a Mosque inside it.

The Medina in Monastir, Tunisia

And, well, the views of the harbor are beautiful!

Backpacking in Tunisia: Top 5 Sights in Monastir

On a negative note, Tunisia is a disorganised country. The public transport networks are horrendous and their national airline carrier, Tunis Air are the worst airline company I have ever flown with in my life. Not only did they lose my baggage, but their check in situation is appauling, and their website doesn’t allow flight bookings either. Take the hint and DO NOT fly with Tunis Air.

 

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