Djerba — Houmt Souk
The island's capital — whitewashed alleys, a sleepy fish market, fondouks (former merchant inns) now turned into cafés, and the Borj el-Kebir fort on the seafront.
South-East · Tunisia
Médenine
Djerba island, Berber ksars and the Ras Jedir border — Tunisia's deep south-east.
Médenine is the gateway to Tunisia's south-east. It contains Djerba — the country's most-visited island — reachable by a Roman-era causeway from Zarzis or by ferry from Jorf.
Djerba is its own world: whitewashed houses, the El Ghriba synagogue (one of the oldest in Africa, still active), Houmt Souk's ochre fish market, and miles of family-friendly beaches.
Inland, the Berber heritage takes over: ksars (fortified granaries) at Médenine and Métameur, and the road south leading toward Tataouine and the Star Wars sites.
What to see in Médenine
El Ghriba synagogue
One of the oldest synagogues in the world (parts dating to 586 BCE by tradition). The annual Lag BaOmer pilgrimage is one of North Africa's most significant Jewish events.
Djerba beaches
30+ km of family-friendly white-sand beaches on the eastern and northern coasts — the heart of Tunisia's all-inclusive industry. Sidi Mehrez and Aghir are the most developed strips.
Médenine ksars
Fortified Berber granaries on the mainland — Ksar Médenine (in town) and Ksar Métameur (10 km south). Photogenic stacked stone cells once used to store grain.
Getting there
Djerba-Zarzis International Airport (DJE) has summer charters from across Europe and year-round links to Tunis. The Roman-era causeway (El Kantara) connects Djerba to Zarzis by road; a ferry runs from Jorf on the mainland to Ajim on Djerba (15 min).
Where to stay
Djerba dominates: Hasdrubal Prestige Djerba (5★), Iberostar Mehari Djerba (4★ family), Riu Palace Djerba and the eastern beach strip for all-inclusive value. For character, Dar Dhiafa in Houmt Souk is a converted merchant's house. On the mainland, Zarzis has quieter beach hotels.
Food & culture
Djerba's cuisine mixes Berber, Jewish and Arab influences — try the slow-cooked lamb mloukhia and the local octopus salad. Houmt Souk's pottery and wool fabrics are made by island cooperatives. Djerbahood — the open-air street-art project — is a contemporary highlight.
Practical tips
Djerba's high season is May–October. The island gets very hot in July–August (35–40 °C). Modest dress is appreciated outside resorts. The Jorf-Ajim ferry takes cars but queues in summer can be 1–2 hours.
Frequently asked questions about Médenine
Is Djerba good for a beach holiday?+
Yes — it's Tunisia's most established beach destination, with gentle sea, white sand and a deep choice of resorts at every budget.
How do I get to Djerba?+
Direct summer flights to DJE from most European hubs; year-round flights from Tunis. By road, cross the El Kantara causeway from Zarzis or the Jorf–Ajim ferry.
Can non-Jewish visitors enter El Ghriba?+
Yes, year-round (closed Saturdays). Modest dress and respectful behaviour expected.