Zarzis Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Zarzis is easily accessible via the Djerba–Zarzis International Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers away on the island of Djerba, with regular connections to major European cities. From Tunis, the capital, you can reach Zarzis by car in about 6-7 hours along well-maintained coastal highways. Regular coach services connect Zarzis to major Tunisian cities, with comfortable overnight options available from Tunis. The ferry terminal in Zarzis is conveniently located near the city center, with ample parking facilities available for those arriving by car. Local taxis and shared louages (minibuses) provide affordable transport between the airport, bus stations, and the ferry port.

Nestled along Tunisia's southeastern coast, Zarzis offers visitors a perfect blend of Mediterranean charm and North African culture. This coastal city boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, set against a backdrop of olive groves that stretch as far as the eye can see. As an important ferry connection point between Tunisia and Europe, Zarzis serves as a gateway to experience the authentic Tunisian way of life away from more crowded tourist centers.

Zarzis enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The ideal time to visit is during the late spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October) when temperatures hover pleasantly between 20-28°C, perfect for both beach activities and exploring. Summer (June-August) brings reliable sunshine and warmer seas, though temperatures can soar above 35°C, while winter offers mild days around 15-20°C with occasional rainfall. The annual Olive Festival in December celebrates the harvest season with cultural performances and local cuisine. Ferry services operate most frequently during the summer months, with reduced schedules during the winter off-season.

Zarzis serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring Tunisia's coastal treasures by ferry. The island of Djerba lies just a short 30-minute ferry ride away, offering visitors stunning beaches, historic synagogues, and the famous Star Wars film locations. A 2-hour ferry journey takes you to the picturesque fishing town of Sfax, known for its well-preserved medina and vibrant souk culture. Adventure seekers can embark on a 4-hour crossing to the Italian island of Pantelleria, with its volcanic landscapes and thermal springs. The ferry route from Zarzis to Djerba is particularly scenic, passing by small uninhabited islands and offering spectacular sunset views.

Zarzis captivates visitors with its 20km stretch of unspoiled Mediterranean beaches, perfect for swimming and water sports in the turquoise waters. History enthusiasts should explore the ancient olive presses of Zarzis, some dating back to Roman times, which highlight the region's 3,000-year-old olive cultivation tradition. The vibrant weekly market offers an authentic glimpse into local life, where you can sample regional specialties like harissa, fresh seafood, and date-based sweets. Don't miss a stroll through the palm-lined Avenue Habib Bourguiba, the heart of the city, with its cafés serving mint tea and traditional pastries. The nearby salt flats of El Melah provide stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset when they turn shades of pink and orange.

Zarzis is home to some of the oldest olive trees in the world, with specimens estimated to be over 2,000 years old still producing olives used in the region's renowned olive oil. The city's name derives from the ancient Phoenician term 'Zarsis,' meaning 'place of coral,' referencing the vibrant coral reefs that lie just offshore. Zarzis port has served as a trading hub since Carthaginian times, with archaeological evidence suggesting maritime commerce dating back to the 5th century BCE. Local fishermen still practice traditional fishing methods passed down through generations, including charfia fishing, an ingenious fixed fish trap system recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.