Tunisia

Brief History

Rail transport in Tunisia has a significant historical background, starting from the late 19th century when the first railway line was established by the ruler Sadok Bey. The initial line, known as TGM, was a horse-drawn route between Tunis and La Marsa, which later became an electrified light rail. The rail network expanded with French companies constructing lines to connect Tunisia with Algeria and internal regions. The Compagnie des chemins de fer tunisiens (CFT) created a network in central and southern Tunisia with a different track gauge. Post-independence, the Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Tunisiens (SNCFT) modernized the rail system, introducing diesel and electric trains, high-speed lines, and diverse services. Today, SNCFT operates around 2,145 km of railway lines, serving millions of passengers and transporting goods annually. Rail transport remains crucial for Tunisia's economic development and connectivity.

General Information and Statistics

The main passenger rail operator in Tunisia is the Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Tunisiens (SNCFT). According to the Tunisian National Railway Company, SNCFT transported a total of about 1.1 billion passengers in 2022. This is an estimate based on monthly data from January through October 2022, which shows an average of 93.1 million passengers per month. Data for November and December 2022 is not yet available.

Tunisia has a total of 2,152 km of railroads, consisting of 468 km of standard gauge (1,435 mm) and 1,674 km of metre gauge (1,000 mm). Based on data on the official website, there are 74 railroad stations in Tunisia.

The total length of electrified railway tracks in Tunisia is 6.3 km, which is about 0.29% of the total railway network.

What connections to other countries there are.

Tunisia does not have any direct train connections to other countries. The only international railway link is with Algeria, but it has been closed since 1994 due to security reasons.

Are trains fast in Tunisia in general? How much time to cross the country?

The speed of the trains depends on the route, the type of service, and the condition of the tracks. The average speed of the trains is about 60 km/h (37 mph), but some express trains can reach up to 120 km/h (75 mph) 3. The fastest train is the Tunis-Sfax express, which covers 270 km (168 miles) in about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
To cross the country from north to south, one possible route is from Bizerte to Zarzis via Tunis and Sfax. This route has a total distance of about 650 km  and takes about 9 hours by train (including transfers). However, the section between Gabès and Zarzis is done by an air-conditioned bus, not by train.

What railway companies are available?

There are four main railroad companies that provide rail transport in Tunisia:

    • Tunisian Railways (SNCFT): The national railway company that operates both passenger and freight services on standard and metre gauge networks.
    • Société des transports de Tunis (STT): The company that manages commuter trains of the Tunis area, including metro light rail and TGM (Tunis-Goulette-La Marsa).
    • Sahel Metro: The company and electric train line that connects Sousse, Monastir, and Mahdia.
    • Lézard rouge: A historical tourist train that runs through the Atlas Mountains and offers scenic views

What train types are available in Tunisia

There are different types of trains available in Tunisia, depending on the route and the class of service. The main train operator is SNCFT, a government company that runs 11 inter-city lines and two metro lines. Some of the train types are:

    • Rapide: These are fast and air-conditioned trains that connect Tunis with Sousse, Sfax, and Gabès. They offer three classes: 2nd class, 1st class, and Classe Confort or Express. The latter two have more spacious seats arranged 2+1 or 2+2 across the car width.
    • Express: These are modern railcars with one class of seating that operate on some routes. They are similar to Rapide trains but have fewer stops.
    • TGM: This is a light railway that links Tunis with La Goulette (for the ferry terminal), Carthage (for the ancient ruins), and Marsa Plage. It has frequent departures and two classes: 1st class and 2nd class 2.
    • Lézard Rouge: This is a tourist train that runs on a scenic route from Métlaoui to Redeyef, passing through gorges and mining towns. It uses vintage carriages from the 19th century.

Are there high-speed-trains available?

There are no high speed trains in Tunisia.

Most important train stations / hubs.

The main railway stations in Tunisia are Tunis, Sousse, Sfax, Gabès, Gafsa, Tozeur.

Websites to buy train tickets for Tunisia?

bookaway.com
You can buy a Tunisia train ticket as written on the website and other sources on the official website https://www.sncft.com.tn/.

Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Tunisia?

SNCFT does not have a mobile app.

Possible to buy a ticket at Tunisian railway station?

The traveler has the option of buying a ticket at a Tunisian train station.

Can I buy my ticket by phone?

In Tunisia, it is not possible to buy train tickets by phone call. The official website of the Tunisian Railways (SNCFT) does not list any telephone number for booking tickets.

Return the ticket.

In case of loss or theft of my ticket: No, it is expected no refund or replacement for lost or stolen tickets or subscriptions.
In case of an unused ticket: The regulations do not provide a refund for unused tickets.

Train ticket prices

The cost of train tickets in Tunisia depends on the distance, type of train and comfort class. There are no special discounts. Traveling from Tunisia to Sousse will cost 15 USD.

Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?

There are no direct train connections between Tunisia and its neighboring countries, so you will need to take a bus or a car to cross the border. However, you can take a train to a city near the border and then continue your journey by road.

Where to find timetables.

Find train schedules on https://www.sncft.com.tn/en/main-lines/train-schedules/

Buying tickets in advance or right before the train

Buying train tickets in advance is recommended in Tunisia to secure seats This is especially important during peak travel times. However, if you're flexible, you can buy closer to departure, but availability might be limited.

Types of tickets.

There are different types of tickets and classes available on Tunisian trains, depending on the route and the service. Here is a summary of the main options:

    • Second class: This is the cheapest and most crowded option, with seats arranged 2+2 across the car width. There is no guarantee of getting a seat, especially during peak times. This class is suitable for short trips or budget travelers.
    • First class: This is more comfortable and spacious than second class, with seats arranged 2+2 across the car width. The seats can recline and there is a higher chance of getting a seat. This class is available on most inter-city trains and some express trains.
    • Classe Confort: This is similar to first class, but with even more space and privacy, as seats are arranged 2+1 across the car width. This class is available on some inter-city trains and some express trains.
    • Express: This is a single-class service that operates on some routes, such as Tunis-Sousse-Sfax-Gabès. The seats are similar to first class, but the trains are faster and have fewer stops. This class is also called Express Class on some modern railcars delivered in 2008.

Interrail/Eurail Passes in Tunisia

Tunisia is not a participating country in the Interrail or Eurail Passes.

Saver price.

I couldn’t find any specific information about saver prices on Tunisian trains.

Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?

Return tickets are available with a discount of 15% over the cost of two one-way tickets, good for up to 10 days.

Flexible tickets.

No information could be found about flexible tickets on Tunisian trains.

Rules of boarding.

It was not possible to find any specific information on whether an ID document is required to board a train in Tunisia. However, it is always a good idea to carry a valid ID when traveling.

Discounts for group travel.

No information about discounts for group travel on Tunisian trains was found.

Age groups and discounts.

According to seat61.com, children aged 0 to 3 travel free on Tunisian trains. Children 4 to 9 travel at 75% of the adult fare, while children 10 and over pay full fare.

Age limitations for minors.

No information was found on whether children can travel unaccompanied on trains in Tunisia.

Handicapped passengers.

The SNCFT website does not provide much information about the accessibility and facilities at stations, but a travel guide by TripSavvy suggests that some stations may have ramps, elevators, or wheelchairs available . However, these may not be consistent or reliable, so it is advisable to plan ahead and ask for assistance if needed. The TripSavvy guide also warns that some trains may not have accessible toilets or space for luggage, so handicapped passengers should be prepared for these inconveniences.

Seat reservations in Tunisian trains.

You can reserve your seat by purchasing a comfort or first class ticket. The second class allows you to book the travel.

Comfort classes on the trains.

There are three main classes of accommodation on Tunisian trains: second class, first class and Classe Confort.

    • Second class is the cheapest option, but it can be very crowded and uncomfortable, especially on long journeys. You may not find a seat and have to stand for the whole trip. Second class seats are arranged 2+2 across the car width.

    • First class is more expensive, but it offers more comfort and space. You have a better chance of getting a reclining seat and enjoying the scenery. First class seats are also arranged 2+2 across the car width, but they are larger and more padded than second class seats.

    • Classe Confort is the most luxurious and expensive option. It is very similar to first class, but with even more space and privacy. Seats are arranged 2+1 across the car width, giving you more legroom and elbow room. Classe Confort is only available on some routes and trains.

Some modern railcars delivered in 2008 have just one class, called Express. This class is equivalent to first class, but with a higher speed and fewer stops.

Food and drink in Tunisian trains / train restaurant.

As for the restaurant car or meals on board, there is no clear information from the search results. However, some sources report that some trains have snack bars that sell drinks and sandwiches. Alternatively, you can bring your own food and drinks on the train as there are no restrictions on this. You can also buy food from vendors at some stations along the way.

Night trains in Tunisia?

In Tunisia, there are night trains that run on some routes, such as Tunis - Tozer, Tunis - Gabes, Tunis - Sfax. However, these trains do not have sleepers, only seats of different classes. Therefore, they may not seem very comfortable for an overnight trip.

Important train routes in Tunisia.

Tunis - Sfax / from 3:50 hours / from 16 EUR / 5 trains a day
Tunis - Sousse/ from 2:25 hours / from 14 EUR / 4 trains a day
Tunis - Gabès / from 7:15 hours / from 17 EUR / 4 trains a day
Tunis - Tozeur / 9:29 hours / from ??? EUR / 1 train a day
Tunis - Ghardimaou /from 3:55hours / from ??? EUR / 3 trains a day
Sousse    - Monastir / 0:52 hours / from ??? EUR / 1 train a day
Sousse - El Jem / from 1:06 hours / from ??? EUR / 3 trains a day

International train routes.

There are no international trains running in Tunisia.

Tourist / scenic routes in the Tunisia.

Among the most popular travel routes in Tunisia by train are the following:

    • Tunis - Carthage - Marsa: this route leads from the capital Tunis to the historic city of Carthage, where you can admire Roman and Punic remains, and to the seaside town of Marsa, where you can relax on the beach or visit the marina. The TGM light rail (Tunis-La Goulette-Marsa) runs frequently between these destinations.
    • Tunis - Sousse - Monastir - Mahdia: This route follows the east coast of Tunisia and offers stunning views of the sea and countryside. You can stop in Sousse, one of Tunisia's oldest cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Monastir, a picturesque town with a fortified monastery and mausoleum, and Mahdia, a charming fishing port with a historic medina.
    • Tunis - El Djem - Sfax - Gabes: This itinerary leads from Tunis to southern Tunisia, where you can explore the cultural and natural diversity of the region. You can visit El Djem, home to an impressive Roman amphitheater, Sfax, a bustling commercial center with a well-preserved medina, and Gabes, an oasis town with a unique coastal ecosystem.
    • Tunis - Tozeur: This itinerary leads from Tunis to the edge of the Sahara Desert, where you can enjoy the beauty and mystery of sand dunes, palm groves and traditional villages. You can also explore nearby attractions such as the salt lake of Chott el Jerid, the mountain oases of Chebika, Tamerza and Mides, and the filming locations of the movie Star Wars.

Luggage information.

There is no official information about luggage restrictions on SNCFT trains, but in the experience of some travelers, you can take as much luggage as you can fit on the top shelves or under the seat. There is no extra charge for luggage, but you should keep an eye on your belongings and not leave them unattended.

Bicycle on the train.

In Tunisia, it is possible to take a bicycle on the train. However, it is not clear whether there are any restrictions or fees for carrying a bicycle on the train.

Ski or snowboard on the train.

No information was found about the possibility of carrying skis or snowboards on a train in Tunisia.

Luggage lockers on the stations in Tunisia.

No information on the availability of luggage lockers at train stations in Tunisia was found.

Lost and Found Items.

There is no separate "lost and found items" service on SNCFT trains.

Pets on the trains.

No information was found about the possibility to carry pets on Tunisian trains.