Sun, sand and sea

For a classic combination of sun, sea and sand, Tunisia's east coast resorts of Sousse, Port el Kantaoui, Hammamet and the island of Djerba are ideal. Holidays here can be as active or relaxing as you like. There's a wide range of water-based activities and cultural excursions on offer and plenty of family-friendly hotels providing playgrounds, children's clubs and activities to keep little ones happy. The towns also have a variety of restaurants and eateries, min markets, and attractions to keep the family amused and cater for your every need.


Action and adventure

From camel trekking amid rolling Saharan dunes and exploring ancient man-made marvels to discovering the quirky troglodyte dwellings of Matmata or taking a vintage train through the fascinating landscape, there's no shortage of fantastic family adventures to be had in Tunisia. It's worth bearing in mind, though, that if you want to explore away from the coast, then its best to visit the country in spring or autumn. Family adventure trips tend not to operate in high summer when inland temperatures can be overbearing.

Taking the Red Lizard train through central Tunisia's rugged canyons and rocky desert tracts is one activity not-to-be-missed for families visiting this scenic country. The vintage train, dating from 1910, runs along old mining tracks through tunnels and the pink and red canyons of Tunisia's Atlas Mountains. Leaving from Metlaoui and finishing up at the green oasis town of Redeyef, a one-and-a-half-hour round trip makes for a wonderful sightseeing tour. Taking a camel safari out into the Saharan dunes is another exciting way for the whole family to appreciate the spectacular desert scenery. The southern oasis town of Douz is a popular departure point for desert tours.

For a fun history lesson, Tunisia's extensive Roman ruins are a great day out. The stunning amphitheatre of Thysdrus in El Djem, situated in the east of the country, is a must-see. Holding more than 35,000 spectators, it was the third largest of its kind in the entire Roman Empire. The director of blockbuster movie Gladiator thought it suitably striking too, as it was used as a backdrop to several scenes from the film. Climbing its steep tiers surrounding the giant arena, it's easy to imagine the gladiatorial battles and chariot races of days gone by.

Children will love the quirky underground dwellings of Matmata too. The houses are carved into the walls of deep circular pits that act as courtyards, with doors and windows facing into the pit and stairs leading to ground level. You can feel the temperature drop as you descend into these dwellings. As well as offering a unique place to stay, the Hotel Sidi Driss is popular with Star Wars fans as it was used as the set of Luke Skywalker's home.