Car Rental in Kairouan

Where to drive

• Explore the Great Mosque of Kairouan and the Aghlabid Basins within the city, then drive to El Jem to see its magnificent Roman amphitheater (≈ 100 km, 1.5 hours).
• Take a scenic drive to the coastal city of Sousse, known for its medina and port, for a day trip (≈ 60 km, 1 hour).
• Visit the archaeological site of Sufetula (Sbeitla), offering well-preserved Roman ruins (≈ 100 km, 1.5 hours).
• Head south to the oasis town of Gafsa, a gateway to the Tunisian Sahara, for a taste of desert life (≈ 160 km, 2.5 hours).
• Discover the traditional Berber village of Takrouna, perched on a hill with panoramic views (≈ 70 km, 1 hour 15 minutes).

What documents you need

To rent a car in Tunisia, you generally need a valid passport, a national driving license held for at least one year, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or Arabic. The minimum age for renting is typically 21 years, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or older, and an additional young driver surcharge might apply for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Kairouan can start from approximately 25-30 EUR per day for an economy car during the low season. Mid-range vehicles might average around 40-60 EUR, while SUVs or premium cars could cost 70 EUR or more daily. Prices are subject to seasonal fluctuations, with summer months and major holidays typically seeing higher rates.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Tunisia, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 110 km/h on highways, though these can vary and are always signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is approximately 0.00% (zero tolerance). Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are advisable in poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants. Child seats are legally required for children under a certain age or height, but availability with rental companies can vary, so it's best to confirm in advance.

Parking

In Kairouan, finding parking within the medina can be challenging due to narrow streets. There are usually designated parking areas outside the medina walls, often managed by attendants for a small fee. In other parts of the city, street parking is common, and you may find both free and paid options. Always look for official signage or ask locals to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol and diesel) is readily available across Kairouan and throughout Tunisia. Prices are government-regulated and generally lower than in many European countries, though they can fluctuate. Most petrol stations accept cash, and major credit cards are increasingly accepted, especially at larger stations on main routes.

Which car to choose

For navigating Kairouan's older streets and for general city driving, a compact or economy car with a manual transmission is often the most practical choice. If you plan to venture into more rural areas or off the main roads, or if traveling with more luggage, a sedan or a small SUV might be more comfortable. Automatic transmissions are available but less common and often more expensive.

Frequently asked questions