Djerba Luxury Resorts on Tunisia's Island of Dreams

Djerba, the largest island in North Africa, is flat, sun-washed and gentle, with olive groves, palm trees and sandy beaches on the Gulf of Gabès. It has been a crossroads for millennia, and its heritage of fortified mosques, traditional houses (menzels) and the ancient El Ghriba synagogue was inscribed by UNESCO in 2023 as an example of a settlement pattern shared by different communities.

For luxury travelers, the island offers a strip of five-star resorts along Sidi Mahrez and La Seguia beaches, some of the best thalassotherapy spas in the Mediterranean and a championship golf course, all at gentle prices. It is the beach finale for a Tunisia vacation after Tunis and Sidi Bou Said.

From the US, connect through Paris, Frankfurt, Istanbul or another European hub to Djerba-Zarzis airport, or fly to Tunis and take a one-hour domestic flight. Travel time from the US East Coast is typically 12 to 15 hours. The island is linked to the mainland by a Roman-era causeway and a short ferry. For private flights, see arriving privately.

On the mainland, the Berber villages of Matmata, with underground cave houses made famous by film, and the ksour of Tataouine are day trips. The Sahara gateway of Douz, with its dunes and camel rides, is about three hours away. Fly north to Tunis for culture.

Tunisia uses the dinar, which cannot be taken out of the country, so exchange only what you need and keep receipts. Cards are accepted in leading hotels and restaurants; carry cash for souks, taxis and tips, with about 10 percent customary in restaurants. Dress is relaxed at resorts, but cover shoulders and knees in the medinas and at religious sites. During Ramadan, eat and drink discreetly in public by day. Arabic and French are spoken everywhere, English in the best hotels. Sockets take European two-pin plugs (230V). On Djerba, a car with driver is the best way to explore the villages, and many resorts arrange private island tours.