How to get to Sfax

If you have decided to visit Sfax, get ready to discover the economic heart and second-largest city in Tunisia. Located on the Mediterranean coast, this bustling port and historical hub offers convenient logistics, so the question of how to get to Sfax will not pose any difficulties for travelers. You can arrive here in various ways: by plane, train, bus, or car, choosing the optimal route for your North African adventure.

The fastest way to reach your destination is to take a flight to Sfax–Thyna International Airport (SFA). The airport is located just a few kilometres from the city limits, allowing you to significantly save time on the transfer to your hotel. The airport accepts both domestic flights connecting the region with other parts of the country and some international flights.

If a direct flight is unavailable, it is worth considering a route through the larger aviation hubs of Tunisia. Tourists often fly into the airports of Monastir, Enfidha, or the capital, and cover the remaining part of the journey by train, rented car, or intercity bus. Such a combined trip will allow you not only to reach your goal but also to see picturesque landscapes along the way.

Rail transport is one of the most comfortable and accessible ways to get to the city. Sfax is an important transport hub, so trains of the national company SNCFT arrive here regularly. Direct routes connect this industrial centre with the country's capital, as well as with other major cities, for example, with Sousse.

The main advantage of choosing the railway is the convenient location of the station. It is located in the very centre of Sfax, which saves travelers from the need to look for a complex transfer upon arrival: many hotels and the port can be reached on foot or by a short taxi ride. In addition, traveling by train allows you to enjoy the colourful views of Tunisian landscapes passing outside the window.

Bus service in this region is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and comfortably get to the city of Sfax. An extensive network of routes makes this type of transport convenient for those who want to see the country from the inside, and it is also a more budget-friendly alternative to a taxi or transfer.

A popular route leads from the city of Monastir: the trip will take several hours, allowing passengers to enjoy picturesque views of the Tunisian coast. Convenient trips from other iconic places are also available to travelers. Regular buses depart from the city of Midoun and historic Kairouan, connecting them to the country's business centre with a reliable transport network.

Traveling by car will give you freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes of North Africa. The trip from coastal Monastir will take just under two hours, during which you will cover about 135 kilometres. Approximately the same amount of time will be required for the road from sacred Kairouan: a distance of 136 kilometres flies by unnoticed thanks to the high-quality surface on the main highways.

If you are making your way from Midoun, located on the island of Djerba, prepare for a longer journey covering about 311 kilometres. The road will take approximately 3.5 hours, but the comfort of modern highways smooths out fatigue. As an alternative to a rented car, you can use intercity louage taxis — this is an authentic and budget-friendly way to get to your destination, popular among locals and experienced tourists.

A trip to Sfax, which is a significant business centre, requires a little preparation, as this city differs from the usual resort zones. To ensure your trip to Tunisia goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have compiled a list of relevant recommendations for you.

1. Clothing and Attire. The climate here is Mediterranean: hot in summer, while winter can be windy and cool. In the warm season, choose clothing made from natural breathable fabrics, but remember that the city is quite conservative. Outside of beach areas, it is better to avoid shorts that are too short and revealing tops, opting instead for modest attire that covers shoulders and knees.
2. Transport. The most convenient way to move around the city is by yellow taxis. They are numerous and inexpensive. Always ask the driver to turn on the meter upon boarding or agree on a fixed price in advance to avoid overpaying.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Tunisian Dinar. Unlike major tourist zones, cards are not accepted everywhere in Sfax, especially in markets and small cafes. It is recommended to always carry a supply of cash, preferably in small denominations.
4. Health and Safety. It is not advisable to drink tap water; it is better to buy bottled water. The city is safe for tourists, but in crowded places, such as the Medina, you should keep a close watch on your bags and wallets to avoid pickpockets.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Arabic, but many locals speak French well. English is less common here than in popular resorts, so having an offline translator on your smartphone will significantly facilitate communication.
6. Local Etiquette. Tunisians are a hospitable and polite people. It is customary to greet people when entering a shop or taxi. If you wish to photograph local residents, be sure to ask for their permission — this is considered a sign of respect.
7. What to Avoid. It is not recommended to consume alcohol publicly outside of licensed hotel restaurants and bars. It is also advisable to refrain from public displays of affection (kissing and hugging) on the street, as this may be seen as disrespectful to locals who hold traditional values.
8. Extra Tip. Sfax is known as the capital of olive oil. Be sure to taste and purchase local oil from the new harvest — it is considered one of the best in the country and will make an excellent, healthy souvenir from your trip.

By following these simple tips, you can easily immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the city and avoid awkward situations. May your acquaintance with the local culture, history, and traditions be comfortable and fascinating!