• Houmt Souk: The island’s main town, known for its bustling souks, traditional architecture, colorful ceramics, and the historic Borj El Kebir fortress.
• El Ghriba Synagogue: One of the oldest synagogues in the world and a pilgrimage site, renowned for its beautiful blue-tiled interior and historic significance.
• Djerbahood: A unique open-air art gallery in the village of Erriadh, showcasing over 250 murals by artists from around the world on traditional village walls.
• Midoun: A charming town with a bustling market, traditional architecture, and a great spot to experience Djerba’s local crafts and cuisine.
• Guellala Museum: A museum dedicated to Djerba’s Berber heritage, with exhibits on traditional crafts, pottery, and the island’s history.
• Ajim: A quiet fishing village and a former filming location for Star Wars, with whitewashed houses, coastal views, and charming streets.
• Ras Rmel (Flamingo Island): A small island off the coast of Djerba where visitors can spot flocks of flamingos and enjoy peaceful, sandy beaches.
• Borj El Kebir: A 15th-century fortress in Houmt Souk, offering historic insights and panoramic views of the harbor and coastline.
• Lagoon of Djerba: Known for its calm, shallow waters and picturesque landscape, ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and beach relaxation.
• Pottery Village of Guellala: Famous for its handmade pottery, this village has workshops where visitors can watch artisans at work and buy unique pottery.

• Explore Djerbahood: The street art in Erriadh is best explored in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is ideal for photos and crowds are minimal.
• Respect Local Customs at El Ghriba Synagogue: Cover shoulders and legs when visiting the synagogue and be respectful of ongoing religious practices.
• Use Taxis for Local Transport: Taxis in Djerba are affordable, metered, and convenient for exploring the island’s main attractions.
• Visit the Weekly Market in Midoun: The market in Midoun is a great place to buy souvenirs, fresh produce, and traditional Tunisian clothing at reasonable prices.
• Enjoy Local Dates and Olive Oil: Djerba is known for its fresh dates and locally produced olive oil, both of which make delicious souvenirs.
• Try a Camel Ride on the Beach: Camel rides along Djerba’s beaches are a popular activity, offering beautiful coastal views and a unique experience.
• Dress Modestly in Villages: While beach areas are more relaxed, dressing modestly in villages and markets is respectful of local customs.
• Sample Traditional Couscous: Couscous is a staple dish in Djerba and is often prepared with fresh seafood or lamb and served with vegetables and spices.
• Stay Hydrated: Djerba’s hot climate makes it essential to carry water, especially when visiting open-air attractions like the souks and Djerbahood.
• Enjoy Fresh Seafood in Houmt Souk: The harbor in Houmt Souk offers a variety of seafood restaurants serving local catches, including grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp.

• El Ghriba Pilgrimage: Held in May, this pilgrimage draws Jewish visitors from around the world to the El Ghriba Synagogue for rituals, celebrations, and prayer.
• International Festival of Ulysses: A summer festival featuring traditional music, dance performances, and theatrical events that celebrate Djerba’s cultural heritage.
• Djerba Midoun Festival: A spring festival held in Midoun, featuring horse parades, folk music, dancing, and performances of traditional Berber culture.
• Pottery Festival in Guellala: A summer festival celebrating the island’s pottery heritage with demonstrations, workshops, and exhibitions of local crafts.

• Star Wars Filming Location: Scenes from Star Wars: A New Hope were filmed in Ajim, where fans can see the original buildings used in the movie.
• Home to One of the Oldest Synagogues: El Ghriba Synagogue dates back nearly 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest Jewish synagogues in the world.
• Land of Palm Trees: Djerba is covered with over a million date palms, providing shade, dates, and an iconic landscape.
• Unique Berber Language: Some locals in Djerba speak a unique Berber dialect, adding to the island’s rich linguistic heritage.
• Djerbahood Street Art Project: Erriadh’s “Djerbahood” is a permanent open-air gallery, with hundreds of murals painted by artists from around the world.
• Land of Ancient Pottery: The village of Guellala is famous for its pottery, a tradition that dates back to ancient times and continues today.
• Flamingo Migration Spot: Each winter, large flocks of flamingos migrate to the island, adding a touch of pink to Djerba’s sandy shores.
• Mediterranean Climate: With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Djerba enjoys one of the warmest and sunniest climates in the Mediterranean.
• Mythical Land of the Lotus-Eaters: According to Homer’s Odyssey, Djerba was the land of the Lotus-Eaters, an enchanting place where travelers would forget their homes.
• Car-Free Zone in Houmt Souk: The center of Houmt Souk is a pedestrian-friendly area, allowing visitors to explore markets and cafes without traffic.

What is Djerba known for?
Djerba is known for its stunning Mediterranean beaches, rich Berber and Jewish heritage, and unique blend of cultures. Famous attractions include the El Ghriba Synagogue, Houmt Souk’s bustling market, and the colorful murals of Djerbahood. The island is a peaceful retreat that offers an authentic taste of Tunisian life, with beautiful beaches, historic sites, and traditional crafts.

Is Djerba a good destination for families?
Yes, Djerba is a family-friendly destination with plenty to offer, including safe, sandy beaches, camel rides, and cultural attractions like the Guellala Museum. Family-friendly hotels and resorts provide comfortable amenities, and activities like snorkeling, pottery-making, and exploring souks are enjoyable for all ages. Djerba’s laid-back atmosphere and warm locals make it an ideal destination for families.

Is Djerba safe for tourists?
Djerba is very safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and welcoming locals. Visitors should take common safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure in crowded areas like souks. The island’s friendly atmosphere, strong cultural heritage, and relaxed vibe ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for travelers.

Do you need a visa to visit Djerba?
Yes, travelers to Djerba require a visa, though many nationalities can enter Tunisia without one for short stays. For travelers requiring a visa, it can often be arranged upon arrival. Checking specific visa requirements before arrival is advisable, as policies may vary. Djerba–Zarzis International Airport makes it easy for visitors from various countries to access the island.

What is the best way to get to Djerba?
Flying into Djerba–Zarzis International Airport (DJE) is the most convenient way to reach Djerba, with flights from major European and North African cities. Once on the island, taxis, rental cars, and even bicycles are popular options for exploring Djerba’s beaches, villages, and historic sites. Ferries also connect the island to the mainland, providing a scenic travel option.

Should I rent a car on Djerba?
Renting a car is a great way to explore Djerba’s scenic spots, villages, and beaches at your own pace. Taxis are also available and affordable for shorter distances, but a car allows for greater flexibility and access to more remote areas. The island’s roads are well-maintained, and driving on Djerba is generally easy for visitors.

Is Djerba wheelchair accessible?
Djerba offers some accessible facilities, especially in larger hotels and main tourist areas like Houmt Souk. However, narrow streets, cobblestone paths, and older buildings in villages may present challenges. Planning ahead with accessible accommodations and seeking assistance when needed can make Djerba a comfortable experience for visitors with mobility needs.

What are Djerba’s most famous landmarks?
Djerba’s famous landmarks include the El Ghriba Synagogue, Houmt Souk, Guellala Museum, and Djerbahood in Erriadh. Ras Rmel (Flamingo Island) and the Lagoon of Djerba are also popular for their natural beauty. These sites showcase Djerba’s rich history, cultural diversity, and picturesque landscapes, making it an unforgettable destination.

What are the best beaches on Djerba?
Djerba has several beautiful beaches, with Sidi Mahrez being the most popular, known for its clear waters and sandy shoreline. Lagoon Beach is ideal for water sports, while Ras Rmel (Flamingo Island) offers a more secluded, natural experience. Each beach offers something unique, whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure by the Mediterranean Sea.

What is unique about Djerba’s wildlife?
Djerba’s wildlife includes flamingos that migrate to the island in winter, particularly near Ras Rmel, and various seabirds around the island’s coasts. The island’s olive groves and date palms also support unique flora and fauna. With a commitment to conservation, Djerba’s natural environment and native wildlife are preserved for visitors to appreciate.

What traditional foods should you try in Djerba?
Djerba’s cuisine includes delicious dishes like couscous with fish or lamb, Brik (a crispy pastry filled with egg and tuna), and harissa. Fresh seafood is popular, and Djerba’s locally made olive oil and dates are must-try specialties. Traditional sweets, such as makroud (date-filled cookies), offer a taste of Djerba’s rich culinary tradition.

Can you drink tap water on Djerba?
It is recommended to avoid drinking tap water in Djerba, as bottled water is widely available and preferred by locals and visitors alike. Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer bottled water, ensuring a safe hydration option. It’s a good idea to carry a reusable bottle, especially when exploring Djerba’s sunny, outdoor attractions.

What is the nightlife like on Djerba?
Djerba’s nightlife is relaxed, with beach bars, cafes, and music lounges in Houmt Souk and along popular beach areas. Resorts often feature live music, traditional performances, and cultural shows. For a quieter experience, many travelers enjoy evening strolls along the beaches or dining in local restaurants under the stars, making Djerba a laid-back nightspot.

How can I stay connected to the internet on Djerba?
Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Djerba offer free Wi-Fi, especially in popular tourist areas like Houmt Souk. Visitors can also purchase a local SIM card with data for reliable internet access. Public Wi-Fi may be limited outside major areas, but the mobile network provides good coverage across the island.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from Djerba?
Popular souvenirs from Djerba include handcrafted pottery from Guellala, olive oil, local spices, and harissa. Traditional ceramics, woven baskets, and jewelry from the markets in Houmt Souk make beautiful keepsakes. Unique items like Tunisian rugs and dates are also available, reflecting the island’s rich craft heritage.

• Odysseus: According to Greek mythology, Odysseus and his crew landed on Djerba, where they encountered the Lotus-Eaters, a key part of The Odyssey.
• Gustave Flaubert: The French author of Madame Bovary visited Djerba in the 19th century, inspired by its exotic landscapes and culture.
• Paul Klee: The famous Swiss painter traveled to Djerba in the early 20th century, finding inspiration in the island’s light and colors.
• Habib Bourguiba: Tunisia’s first president, who supported the preservation of Djerba’s cultural heritage and ancient sites.
• Ptolemy: The Greek geographer mentioned Djerba in his writings, helping to map out the ancient world.
• Saint Augustine: This early Christian theologian was connected to North Africa and mentioned Djerba’s ancient Christian communities in his writings.
• Camille Saint-Saëns: The French composer spent time in Djerba, drawn to the island’s unique culture and landscapes.
• Yehuda Halevi: The famed Jewish philosopher and poet referenced Djerba in his works, connecting it to the broader Jewish diaspora in North Africa.
• Pierre Loti: The French writer visited Djerba and wrote about its beauty and the traditional life of its inhabitants.
• Michel Tournier: The French author visited Djerba and later referenced its mystical charm and unique atmosphere in his works.

• Star Wars: A New Hope: Ajim served as a filming location for Tatooine, featuring iconic scenes like the Cantina and Mos Eisley.
• The English Patient: Some desert scenes from this Oscar-winning film were shot in and around Djerba, showcasing its vast landscapes.
• Pirates: Roman Polanski’s 1986 adventure film Pirates used Djerba’s coastal areas to depict 17th-century Caribbean scenery.
• Jesus of Nazareth: Filming of this famous mini-series used Djerba’s rustic villages to recreate scenes from the life of Jesus.
• Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark: The nearby desert areas around Djerba were used for some of the film’s adventure scenes.
• The Last Flight: Filmed in North Africa, this French movie uses Djerba’s landscapes to capture the essence of the Sahara.
• Black Gold: Some scenes of this epic movie, depicting the Arabian desert, were filmed in Djerba’s scenic locations.
• The Sheltering Sky: While mainly shot in other North African locations, parts of this film capture the ambiance similar to Djerba’s settings.
• Lancelot of the Lake: The medieval-inspired film includes scenes that capture the natural beauty of the Tunisian coastline around Djerba.
• L’aile ou la cuisse: A French comedy that featured scenes showcasing the traditional life of North African towns like Djerba.