faq.subtitle Kairouan
Kairouan is the fourth holiest city in Islam. Founded in 670 AD as the first Islamic base in the Maghreb. A pilgrimage here equals one-seventh of a Mecca pilgrimage
Non-Muslims can enter the courtyard of the Great Mosque only, not the main prayer hall. Modest dress required
No airport. Take louage (fastest and cheapest) or SNTRI bus from Tunis - 3 hours. Or private taxi
Kairouan is famous for handwoven carpets. Look for ONAT certificate (quality guarantee). Prices start from 200 TND. Always bargain
One full day is enough for main sights: Great Mosque, Mosque of Three Gates, Aghlabid Basins, Medina
Useful tips for visiting Kairouan
Wear modest clothing when visiting mosques - shoulders and knees covered. Women should cover head
Buy combined ticket (12 TND) for all main sights: Great Mosque, Aghlabid Basins, Museum of Islamic Art
When buying carpets, look for ONAT certificate. Guarantees local handmade. Bargain 30-50% off initial price
Visit early morning (8-10am) to avoid heat and crowds. Mosques close for noon prayer
Summer is extremely hot (up to 45°C). Best time to visit: March-April and November
Try Makroudh - date-filled pastry, Kairouan specialty. Sold everywhere in the medina
Average temperature by month
location.transport.subtitle
| location.transport.title | location.transport.price | location.transport.app | location.transport.note |
|---|---|---|---|
location.transport.bus | 12 د.ت ~4.2 $ | SNTRI | 12 TND to Tunis (SNTRI). Buses depart from Bab Alioua station, ~3 hours journey. |
location.transport.taxi | 1 د.ت ~0.35 $ | — | Yellow taxis with meters. Base 1 TND + 1 TND/km. Within city 5-10 TND. Negotiate for longer trips. |
location.transport.microbus | 2 د.ت ~0.70 $ | — | Louage - shared 8-seater minivans, depart when full. 2-20 TND depending on destination. Station walkable from center. |
Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
Cash is essential. Few places accept cards. ATMs available in center
Tunisian Dinar (TND). Banks in center. Exchange bureaus limited
10% tip appreciated. Not mandatory but welcome
Attractions and points of interest