Bizerte is Tunisia’s northernmost city - a Mediterranean port with a layered history spanning the Phoenician period, Roman occupation, Ottoman rule, and the French protectorate. It is less visited than Tunis or the east coast resorts, which means better value for money and a more authentic daily atmosphere. The main accommodation choice is between the old port area with its medina and kasbah, the Corniche running east along the coast, or the quieter Sidi Salem resort area north of the city.
Quick comparison
| Hotel | Best for | Area | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jalta Hotel | Four-star, pool, seafront | Corniche | 200–300 TND |
| Bizerta Resort | Families, beach, resort | Sidi Salem | 180–280 TND |
| Hotel Nour Congress & Resort | Beach access, pool, parking | Sidi Salem | 150–240 TND |
| Al Madina Riad Hotel | Traditional riad, old medina | Old port | 80–140 TND |
Best areas to stay in Bizerte
Corniche (coast road east of centre)
The Corniche is Bizerte’s main seaside promenade, running east from the city centre along a sandy beach with palm trees and café terraces. Most of the better hotels are here, with sea-facing rooms and easy access to the beach. The Corniche is the natural choice for travellers who want both sea access and easy walking into the city centre - it is about 15 minutes on foot to the old port from most hotels.
Notable hotels on the Corniche:
- Jalta Hotel - the best-equipped property in Bizerte, a four-star on the Corniche with a pool, restaurant, and comfortable sea-view rooms. Regularly used by business travellers and those wanting a reliable standard. Rooms from approximately 200–300 TND per night as of 2026. Jalta Hotel
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Old port and medina area
The old port is one of the most photographed spots in Tunisia - a kasbah built by the Spanish in the 16th century, reflected in the calm water of the inner harbour. The medina behind the port is smaller than Tunis or Sfax but has its own character: mosque-lined streets, a covered souk, and several good fish restaurants near the quay.
Staying in this area puts you closest to Bizerte’s most distinctive character - the fishing boats, the evening passeggiata along the old port, and the kasbah illuminations at night.
Notable options near the old port:
- Al Madina Riad Hotel - a traditional riad in the heart of Bizerte’s old medina, about 2 minutes’ walk from the port and 7 minutes from the beach. Individually decorated rooms with air conditioning, a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, and a family-run atmosphere. Consistently well-reviewed for location, hospitality, and authentic character. Rooms from approximately 80–140 TND per night as of 2026. Al Madina Riad Hotel
Sidi Salem (resort area, north)
The Sidi Salem area north of the city centre has the largest resort-style hotel in Bizerte, set back from a quieter beach. It is more isolated than the Corniche hotels and requires a taxi or car to reach the city centre and restaurants.
Notable options:
- Bizerta Resort - a large resort hotel with pools, beach access, and family facilities. Suitable for those who want a self-contained holiday near Bizerte without engaging much with the city. Rooms from approximately 180–280 TND per night as of 2026. Bizerta Resort
- Hotel Nour Congress & Resort - another option in the Sidi Salem coastal zone, with a seasonal outdoor pool, private beach access, gardens, and free parking. A reliable mid-range resort choice for families or business travellers wanting beach facilities. Rooms from approximately 150–240 TND per night as of 2026. Hotel Nour Congress & Resort
Town centre
The central area around Avenue Habib Bourguiba has a few practical hotels that work well for travellers passing through or visiting for business. Less atmospheric than the old port, but convenient.
Key sights within walking distance
Old port and kasbah
The inner harbour dates to the Spanish occupation in the 16th century. The kasbah (fortified tower) and the Oceanographic Museum occupy the western bank. The bridge over the canal connecting the inner harbour to Lac de Bizerte is a focal point for evening walks. The illuminated kasbah walls reflected in the water are a striking sight after dark.
Remel Plage
A long, quieter beach about 5 km north of the city centre. Less developed than the Corniche, with cleaner sand and fewer crowds in peak season. Accessible by taxi (approximately 5–8 TND each way).
Cap Angela
Cap Angela, approximately 25 km north of Bizerte, is the northernmost point of Africa - a dramatic headland with a lighthouse and views back along the Tunisian coast. Worth a half-day trip by car. The coastal drive from Bizerte along the P11 passes several small coves with good swimming spots.
Eating out in Bizerte
Bizerte’s seafood is among the freshest in Tunisia - the daily catch arrives directly at the old port and goes to the restaurants on the quay within hours:
- Restaurant El Pescadore - on the old port quay, serving grilled fish and shellfish from the morning catch. Sea bass and red mullet from approximately 25–40 TND per main as of 2026.
- Restaurant Le Sport Nautique - a well-established restaurant on the Corniche with a terrace and reliable Tunisian and seafood menu. Mains from approximately 20–35 TND.
- Café La Régence - good for morning coffee and French-influenced pastries, reflecting Bizerte’s colonial history. Breakfast from approximately 4–8 TND.
Getting to Bizerte
- From Tunis by car: approximately 65 km, 50–60 minutes on the A7 motorway. Car hire in Tunisia is the easiest option if you plan to visit Cap Angela and the surrounding coast.
- From Tunis by train: SNCFT runs several services daily from Tunis Ville station to Bizerte. Journey time approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 1.5 hours. Fares approximately 5–8 TND as of 2026.
- From Tunis by louage: louages from Bab Saadoun in Tunis take approximately 1–1.5 hours and cost approximately 4–6 TND per person.
- From Tunis airport: pre-booked transfers are available for approximately 40–55 EUR as of 2026.
Travel insurance is worth arranging before departure. For a detailed guide to the city and its sights, see our Bizerte travel guide and our things to do in Bizerte page.