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Guide
Kairouan, Tunisia πΉπ³
#1503
,
Nomad Score:
55%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Kairouan is one of the most important cities in Tunisia, known for its rich Islamic heritage and historical significance. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 200,000 |
π» Internet Speed | Average speed of 20 Mbps, with some cafes and coworking spaces offering higher speeds. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 TND β 0.33 USD. The local currency is Tunisian Dinar (TND). You can use ATMs widely across the city. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type C sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Major providers include Tunisie Telecom, Ooredoo, and Orange, offering affordable prepaid plans. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Local banks such as Banque de Tunisie and international options like Revolut are available. |
π Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local rentals, and budget hotels. Expect around 120 TND per night for a decent hotel. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Moderately; credit cards are accepted in larger establishments but cash is preferred in local markets. |
π Short Term Rentals | Available through platforms like Airbnb and local rental agencies. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Dar el Ghriba starts around 50 TND/night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Medina of Kairouan, close to the Great Mosque and local markets. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Near the city center offers a blend of amenities and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Coworking Kairouan offers a quiet environment with ample facilities for remote work. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Koufni provides a great atmosphere with Wi-Fi and power outlets. |
πΌ Networking Events | While specific events are rare, local expatriate groups on Facebook occasionally organize meetups. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Check the Kairouan Expats Facebook group for community gatherings and social events. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Bolt operates in town and is a reliable option for on-demand transport. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals can be found near the Medina, with charges around 10 TND for a full day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | The nearest beach is in Monastir, about 60 km away, approximately 1 hour by bus. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Nouvelair operates regional flights to popular destinations. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Tunisair connects Kairouan to major European cities. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | The A1 highway connects Kairouan to Tunis and other key cities. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Kairouan train station provides services to various parts of Tunisia. |
π Public Transport Passes | Bus fares within the city are around 1 TND. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses run frequently to Tunis and Sousse, with tickets costing around 5 TND. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Kairouan Regional Hospital provides comprehensive medical services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga and wellness options are limited but check local community centers for classes. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness Gym Kairouan offers basic workout facilities. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Laverie Kairouan offers laundry services starting at 20 TND. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Jumia Food operates in Kairouan, offering various local restaurants. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Couscous Kairouani is a must-try; it's a local specialty with rich flavors. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegetarian couscous and various salads are available at most restaurants. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | La Maison des Douceurs offers delightful pastries and traditional Tunisian sweets. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | The local market (souq) offers fresh produce and street food at low prices. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Jumia serves as a popular e-commerce platform for various goods. |
π Grocery Delivery | Local supermarkets offer delivery, such as Carrefour. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Kairouan is quiet at night; few bars exist, but local cafes often have evening activities. |
π» Local Brewery | Tunisian beer is available in local markets, with brands like Celtia and Samba. |
π· Wine Bars | Local wine can be sampled at select restaurants and cafes. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street food is abundant, with options like brik and shawarma available. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and pasta from local restaurants cater to Western tastes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Great Mosque of Kairouan and the Aghlabid Basins are top historical sites. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Museum of Islamic Art offers insights into the region's rich history. |
π° Historical Sites | Kairouan boasts several mosques and ancient architecture reflecting its heritage. |
π Religious Sites | Don't miss the Mosque of Sidi Sahbi, known for its beautiful architecture. |
π Annual Events | Mawlid al-Nabi celebrations feature religious gatherings and cultural events. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Explore the Medina for its traditional crafts and architecture. |
π Theater Venues | Limited but check local listings for cultural performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The souq provides a vibrant atmosphere and local goods. |
πΌ Music Scene | Traditional music is celebrated during festivals and local gatherings. |
π¨ Street Art | Street art is emerging in Kairouan, primarily focused in the Medina. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Classes can be arranged locally to learn traditional Tunisian dishes. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Local artisans can be found in the Medina selling their crafts. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The medina features several beautifully preserved buildings worth exploring. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Kairouan is known as the 'City of a Thousand Mosques'. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Nearby areas like the Chott el Jerid offer unique landscapes and salt flats. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Bouhertma National Park is a short drive away, offering hiking opportunities. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Various paths around the city and along the outskirts for cycling. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Hills around Kairouan provide beautiful overlooks of the city. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Chott el Jerid is a great place for birdwatching during migration seasons. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas outside the city where bonfires are allowed. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Local services include Post-tunisie for mail and package deliveries. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Several local shops in the Medina offer phone and laptop repair services. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers occasionally have facilities for table tennis. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Private language schools offer classes in Arabic and French. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | There are limited libraries; consider cafes for a study-friendly environment. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Cultural centers promote local gatherings and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Internet cafes are available but gaming lounges are rare. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Gambling is not prevalent in Kairouan due to local laws. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,800 TND per mΒ² (e.g., 50 mΒ² = 90,000 TND) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,500 TND per mΒ² (e.g., 50 mΒ² = 75,000 TND) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 2,000 TND per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = 120,000 TND) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,600 TND per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = 96,000 TND) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,800 TND per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = 144,000 TND) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,500 TND per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = 120,000 TND) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 25% standard corporate tax rate. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% withholding tax on dividends. |
π¦ Tax System | Progressive tax rates with a maximum of 35%. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal tax rate is 35%. |
π§Ύ VAT | Standard VAT rate is 19%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are regulations surrounding foreign income. |
π Property Tax | Annual property taxes based on assessed value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Approximately 4% during property purchases. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | 0% tax on foreign income under certain conditions. |