Behavior Tips & Etiquette

Manners

Tunisians are hospitable and warm. A few basic rules help to avoid faux pas:

• Greeting: Handshakes are common among men and between women. For man-woman: Wait to see if the woman offers her hand. Among good acquaintances: cheek kiss (left, right, left).
• Removing shoes: When entering a home and a mosque. Wear socks!
• Left hand: Traditionally considered unclean. Eat, give, and receive with the right hand.
• Hospitality: If invited for tea or a meal, do not decline the first time — it is an honor. A small gift (pastries, fruit) is nice but not expected.
• Photography: Always ask for permission, especially with women and older people. In mosques: only the courtyard, not the prayer hall.
• Alcohol: No problem in tourist areas. In conservative neighborhoods and during Ramadan: be discreet. Do not appear drunk in public.

Clothing

Tunisia is tolerant, but respectful clothing is appreciated:

• In the city: Shoulders and knees covered (especially for women). Men: long pants or Bermuda shorts.
• At the beach: Bikini/swim trunks are normal (in hotel zones). Topless is frowned upon.
• In mosques: Long pants/skirt, covered shoulders, headscarf for women (sometimes provided at the entrance).
• In hotel/resort: Anything goes — tourist standards apply here.

Ramadan

During the fasting month of Ramadan (date varies according to the Islamic calendar), daily life changes significantly:

• Many restaurants close during the day
• Public eating, drinking, and smoking are considered disrespectful
• Hotels still serve meals for tourists
• In the evening after Iftar (breaking the fast), the atmosphere is lively — medinas and cafes fill up, families celebrate, sweets are distributed
• It is a special time — those who experience the evening Ramadan atmosphere will never forget it