Car Rental in Hammamet

Where to drive

• Drive to Tunis and Carthage: Explore the capital city of Tunis and the ancient Punic and Roman ruins of Carthage (approximately 65 km, 1 hour drive).
• Day trip to Sidi Bou Said: Visit the iconic blue and white village of Sidi Bou Said, known for its artistic atmosphere and stunning views (approximately 75 km, 1 hour 15 minutes drive).
• Discover El Jem Amphitheatre: Journey south to the remarkably preserved Roman amphitheatre of El Jem, a UNESCO World Heritage site (approximately 140 km, 1 hour 45 minutes drive).
• Explore Kairouan: Visit the holy city of Kairouan, famous for its Grand Mosque and Aghlabid Basins (approximately 100 km, 1 hour 30 minutes drive).
• Relax in Sousse: Head to the bustling city of Sousse, with its medina, ribat, and beautiful beaches (approximately 80 km, 1 hour drive).
• Coastal drive to Nabeul: Enjoy a short scenic drive to the nearby pottery town of Nabeul, known for its ceramics and weekly market (approximately 15 km, 20 minutes drive).

What documents you need

To rent a car in Tunisia, you typically need a valid passport, a national driving license held for at least one year, and for non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended or even required by some rental companies. The minimum age for rental is generally 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, often with an additional young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Hammamet vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles could range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Peak summer months typically see prices increase by 30-50% across all categories.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Tunisia, you drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 110 km/h on motorways, though these can vary and should be observed carefully. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, practically zero. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child seats are not always legally required for tourists but are highly recommended for safety; inquire with your rental company if available.

Parking

In Hammamet, parking can be found in designated areas, often managed by attendants who will charge a small, approximate fee (a few dinars). Free street parking is available in some residential areas but can be limited, especially in the busy medina or tourist zones. Look for official parking lots or ask your hotel for recommendations.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available in and around Hammamet and along major routes. Unleaded petrol (essence sans plomb) and diesel (gazoil) are standard. Prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across the country, typically paid in cash, though some larger stations may accept credit cards. Keep your tank topped up, especially when venturing to more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For most travel around Hammamet and coastal day trips, an economy or compact car with manual transmission is usually sufficient and economical. If you plan to explore more rural or slightly unpaved routes, or if you prefer more comfort for longer journeys, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV might be a better choice. Automatic transmission cars are less common but available, often at a higher price.

Frequently asked questions