The island is flat and the roads simple, making it an ideal place for a first drive in Tunisia. Keep a single base for all three nights and head out in a different direction each day. The best period to enjoy both the sea and the sights runs from May to October.
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Day 1 — Houmt Souk and Erriadh
Start with Houmt Souk, the island's main town. In the morning, get lost in its covered souks, its converted old fondouks and its white lanes, then stop by the fishing harbour, where a fish auction is sometimes held. Visit Borj El Kebir, a seaside fortress that tells the island's turbulent history. In the afternoon, head to Erriadh, the former Hara Sghira: its walls host the works of Djerbahood, a street art project that brought together artists from around the world. Close by stands the El Ghriba Synagogue, one of the oldest in North Africa; modest dress is required and there is a security check at the entrance.
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Day 2 — Guellala and El Kantara
Head to the south of the island and Guellala, the potters' village. Workshops partly dug into the ground keep an age-old craft alive using local clay: jars, dishes and tableware are made before your eyes. At the top of the hill, the heritage museum presents the island's traditions, costumes and rituals. Continue to El Kantara, where a causeway of ancient origin links Djerba to the mainland, and look for the remains of ancient Meninx. Along the way, notice the menzels, fortified farmsteads, and the small white Ibadi mosques with their sober style so typical of Djerba.
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Day 3 — Midoun and the east coast beaches
Spend your last day on the east coast, home to the island's finest beaches: Sidi Mahrez, Seguia and Aghir, with fine sand and clear water. Stop in Midoun, the island's second town, for its lively market and cafés; ask locally which day the weekly market is held. Then drive to the Ras Taguermess lighthouse on the north-eastern tip for an open view of the sea. If you have time, a boat trip to the Ras Rmel peninsula, often called Flamingo Island, rounds off the stay nicely. End with a sunset on the beach.
Our tips
- From May to October the sea is at its most pleasant; in midsummer, visit villages early in the morning or late in the afternoon and keep the hottest hours for the beach.
- For the El Ghriba Synagogue and mosques, cover shoulders and knees; check access conditions on site, especially during the annual pilgrimage.
- Bargaining is part of the game in the souks: keep smiling and set yourself a budget before you start.
- Buy pottery directly from the Guellala workshops and ask for sturdy packing for the journey home.
- Djerba is linked to the mainland by the El Kantara causeway and by a ferry from Jorf: ask about waiting times at the ferry in high season.
