Louage, Bus & Train
Louages — The Backbone of Land Transport
Louages (pronounced: Lu-ash) are Tunisia's most ingenious means of transport: white shared taxis (8-seater vans) with colored stripes (color = region). They operate without a schedule — when there are 8 passengers, they leave. Fixed prices, extremely cheap, faster than buses.
| Route | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tunis → Sousse | 2–2.5h | 4–5€ |
| Tunis → Hammamet | 1.5h | 3€ |
| Sousse → Kairouan | 1.5h | 2.50€ |
| Tunis → Bizerte | 1h | 2.50€ |
| Sousse → El Jem | 1h | 2€ |
| Tunis → Tozeur | 5–6h | 10–12€ |
| Gabès → Matmata | 45 min | 1.50€ |
Louage Stations are in every city. In Tunis, the most important: Gare Routière Sud (Bab Alioua, for the south) and Gare Routière Nord (Bab Saadoun, for the north). Just go to the station, state your destination, and get in.
TGM Train (Tunis–La Goulette–La Marsa)
This suburban train line is indispensable for Tunis visitors: It connects the city center (Station Tunis Marine) with Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, and La Marsa in 30–40 minutes. Runs every 15 minutes, costs only 0.50€. The route runs along the Gulf of Tunis — beautiful!
Métro Léger (Tunis Tram)
Six lines through the capital. Useful for short distances, runs frequently, extremely cheap (0.20€). Somewhat outdated, but functional.
SNCFT Trains (National Railway)
The Tunisian railway connects the main cities. Slow, but scenic and dirt cheap.
- Tunis → Sousse: 2.5h, 3–5€ (Comfort class recommended)
- Tunis → Sfax: 4h, 5–8€
- Tunis → Gabès: 6h, 8–12€
- Tunis → Tozeur: 8–9h (night train available, sleeper car 15€)
Buses (SNTRI)
Cheapest option, but slow and uncomfortable. Air-conditioned "Comfort" buses on main routes are acceptable. Okay for short distances, for long distances better to use Louage or train.
💡 Tipp
The night train Tunis → Tozeur is an adventure: Departure in the evening, arrival in the oasis in the morning. The sleeper car costs only 15€ and saves a hotel night. Book early — there are only a few spots!
