Bizerte

Bizerte is the northernmost governorate of Tunisia, stretching along the Mediterranean coast from Cap Blanc (the northernmost point of Africa) to the Ichkeul lagoon. The governorate is named after its capital, Bizerte, a historic port city with a strategic deep-water harbour. The region combines Mediterranean beaches, wetlands of international importance (Ichkeul National Park), agricultural plains, and forested hills. Sejnane is known for its traditional Berber pottery, while Ghar El Melh preserves a historic Andalusian character.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for birdwatching at Ichkeul and hiking in the northern forests. Summer is ideal for the beaches of Bizerte and Ras Jebel. Winters are mild and wetter, with the highest rainfall in Tunisia.

Bizerte city is 65 km from Tunis via the A-4 motorway (about 1 hour). Louage and buses connect Bizerte with all major towns. Taxis are available within the city. A car is useful for reaching Ichkeul National Park and the more remote beaches.

• Bizerte — The historic port city with a Mediterranean old town, a kasbah, and a fishing harbour.
• Ichkeul National Park — A UNESCO World Heritage site and Ramsar wetland, famous for migratory waterfowl (October–March).
• Menzel Bourguiba — A town on the Lake Bizerte canal, with a large naval base and shipyard.
• Ras Jebel — A coastal town with beaches and the Cap Blanc lighthouse, the northernmost point of Africa.
• Sejnane — A Berber town in the forested hills, renowned for its distinctive hand-painted pottery.
• Ghar El Melh — A historic fishing port and former Andalusian settlement, on a lagoon connected to the sea.
• El Alia — An agricultural town known for its olive production and weekly market.
• Mateur — A market town on the main road to Tabarka, with a Roman bridge nearby.

Seafood is excellent in Bizerte and the coastal towns — try grilled fish, squid, and octopus. The region is known for its olive oil production. Sejnane pottery is a famous craft product. Local specialities include merguez sausages and chakchouka (pepper and tomato stew with eggs).

The Bizerte International Festival (July–August) features music and theatre. Sejnane holds an annual pottery festival showcasing its Berber ceramic traditions. Ichkeul National Park hosts birdwatching events.

• Visit the Bizerte kasbah and old port.
• Go birdwatching at Ichkeul National Park in winter.
• Buy handcrafted pottery from Sejnane.
• Visit the Cap Blanc lighthouse at Ras Jebel.
• Explore the Andalusian heritage of Ghar El Melh.