Is cash still widely used?
Yes. Tunisia is predominantly cash-based. Local transport, medina shops, markets, local restaurants, and most businesses outside resort areas require dinar cash. Sousse, Hammamet, and Djerba resort areas have better card acceptance at tourist hotels.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Tunis and larger cities. STB Bank and BNA machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around 5 TND per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Good availability in Tunis; reasonable in tourist resort areas
- The dinar is a controlled currency — exchange only at banks or official bureaux
Card acceptance
Low to moderate. Tourist resort hotels and some restaurants accept cards. Medinas, souks, and most local businesses require cash.
Tips for travelers
- The dinar cannot be exported — exchange remaining dinars before leaving
- Bargaining in souks requires cash
- Tipping is appreciated — 10% in restaurants and for guides
- Tunisia is one of North Africa’s most accessible and affordable destinations