An elegant seaside resort in the northern suburbs of Tunis, La Marsa charms visitors with its long seafront promenade, lively beach and cafés facing the Mediterranean. A stone’s throw from Sidi Bou Saïd and Carthage, it’s the Tunisois’ favourite weekend spot. Here’s what to do to visit La Marsa, where to swim, where to stay and where to enjoy a tea almost with your feet in the sand.
Why visit La Marsa?
La Marsa is the easy-living side of the Tunisian coast: a seafront walk, shaded terraces, ice-cream parlours, fish restaurants and a family beach. Away from the bustle of the capital, you come here to breathe, stroll along the promenade and enjoy the sunset. There are a thousand good reasons to visit La Marsa, whether alone, as a couple or with the family.
What to do in La Marsa: the highlights
The seafront promenade (the corniche)
The heart of La Marsa is its corniche: a long promenade along the beach, lined with cafés and restaurants. Perfect for a late-afternoon stroll, when the light turns the bay golden.
The beach
Vast and easy to reach, La Marsa beach is one of the most popular in the Tunis area. Ideal for a swim, sunbathing or a game of beach volleyball with friends.
The Saf-Saf café
A local institution built around an old noria well, the Saf-Saf café is the dream spot for a pine-nut mint tea in a traditional setting. A timeless break.
The La Marsa market
Colourful and lively, the market is worth a visit for its fruit, spices, flowers and authentic atmosphere. A chance to taste local life.
Galleries and the arty vibe
La Marsa has a bohemian-chic atmosphere, with its art galleries, designer boutiques and trendy cafés — a pleasant contrast with the ancient heritage nearby.
Where to stay in La Marsa
Staying in La Marsa means being by the sea while remaining minutes from Sidi Bou Saïd, Carthage and Tunis. From comfortable hotels to addresses overlooking the gulf, there’s something for everyone.
👉 Browse our hotels in La Marsa.
Where to eat in La Marsa
La Marsa is a foodie’s paradise: fresh fish and seafood facing the corniche, Tunisian and Mediterranean cuisine, renowned ice-cream parlours and pastries. Tables with a sea view are ideal at sunset.
👉 Our best restaurants in La Marsa.
What to do around La Marsa
- Sidi Bou Saïd — the famous blue and white village, just minutes away.
- Carthage — the UNESCO-listed ancient site.
- Tunis — the medina and the Bardo Museum.
Practical tips
- Getting there: the TGM train from Tunis Marine — La Marsa is the end of the line (about 40 min); a taxi also works.
- When: pleasant all year round; the beach and corniche are at their best from May to September.
- Duration: half a day for the beach and corniche, a full day combined with Sidi Bou Saïd.
- Atmosphere: very lively at weekends and on summer evenings — great for the buzz, less so if you’re after total quiet.
A little background
Once a summer retreat of the Beys of Tunis, La Marsa still has fine residences and palaces that recall its prestigious residential past, now blended with modern, lively seaside living.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to La Marsa from Tunis?
The easiest way is the TGM train from Tunis Marine: La Marsa is the terminus, about forty minutes, passing through Carthage and Sidi Bou Saïd.
How much time should you allow in La Marsa?
Half a day is enough for the beach and corniche; a full day if you combine it with nearby Sidi Bou Saïd.
Is La Marsa suitable for families?
Yes: the beach is easy to reach, the promenade is safe and there are plenty of ice-cream parlours — it’s a very family-friendly destination.
👉 Fancy a stay? Find all our addresses on our dedicated La Marsa page.