This Djerba island travel guide covers everything you need to plan a perfect visit to North Africa’s largest island. Djerba, connected to the mainland by a 7km Roman causeway, blends beaches, culture, history and gastronomy into one unforgettable destination. Use this Djerba island travel guide to make the most of every day on the island.
Djerba, connected to the mainland by a 7km Roman causeway, is the largest island in North Africa. Known as the “Island of Dreams” and the legendary Island of the Lotus Eaters from Homer’s Odyssey, Djerba blends beaches, culture, history, and gastronomy.
Getting There
- By air: Djerba-Zarzis Airport (DJE), direct flights from Paris, Lyon, Frankfurt, Rome, Brussels and more
- By road: Via the Roman causeway from El Kantara, or the ferry from Jorf (25 min crossing)
Top Attractions
Houmt Souk Medina
The island’s capital with a charming covered souk, whitewashed fondouks, and the Ottoman-era Borj el Kebir fortress overlooking the sea.
Djerbahood
The village of Erriadh was transformed into the world’s largest open-air street art museum, with over 150 murals by international artists.
El Ghriba Synagogue
One of the oldest synagogues in the world (586 BC according to tradition), a major pilgrimage site and symbol of Tunisia’s Jewish heritage. Open to visitors.
Beaches
The north coast (Sidi Mahrez, La Séguia) offers long white sand beaches with calm, shallow water. The east coast (Aghir) is quieter with fewer hotels.
Best Excursions from Djerba
- Ksar Ouled Soltane (40 min), most photogenic ksar in Tunisia
- Chenini Berber village (1.5h), dramatic hilltop troglodyte village
- Matmata Star Wars caves (2h), Hôtel Sidi Driss
- Sahara camel trek from Douz (3h drive)
Food & Drink
Don’t miss grilled sea bream at the fishing port, brick à l’oeuf, ojja merguez, and fresh octopus salad. The island’s olive oil and dates are exceptional.
