Planning a trip along Tunisia’s beautiful Sahel coast? This Monastir to Sousse guide will help you navigate one of the easiest day trips in the region. It’s an easy route, and not complicated. From local trains and louages to private transfers, each choice offers something unique for different travel styles and budgets. Read on to find the perfect way to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
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Monastir is a charming coastal town with a rich history and relaxed vibe, making it a must-visit from Sousse. Known for its impressive Ribat, scenic marina, and vibrant medina, it’s perfect for history buffs and beach lovers alike. Whether you’re exploring on a day trip or planning a longer stay, this town offers something for everyone. For a detailed look at what to do in Monastir, check out my things to do in Monastir guide.
EASY WAY TO TRAVEL
Take a Transfer from Sousse to Monastir
With door to door service, A/C and an easy way to get to exactly where you want to, this is a lot more affordable than you think.
Where is Monastir?
Monastir is a picturesque coastal town in eastern Tunisia, located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Sousse. It’s easily accessible for day trips or longer stays. Its convenient location makes it a hub for exploring Tunisia’s Sahel region, offering both historical sites and relaxing beaches just a short ride from Sousse.
Why go to Monastir?
Monastir is a perfect mix of history, culture, and seaside charm. Explore the impressive Ribat, stroll along the marina, or wander its lively medina. Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or just looking for a relaxing day trip, there’s something for everyone.
PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS
- 🛡️ Get Travel Insurance: Civitatis includes medical expenses, repatriation, theft, luggage delays. No deductibles or upfront payments. Get a quote here.
- 💰 Read about the Currency in Tunisia and ATM fees.
- 🔌 Check out Tunisia’s plug, socket & power situation.
- 📶 Internet, maps and data on the go. eSims for Tunisia
How to Go from Sousse to Monastir
Traveling from Sousse to Monastir is simple with several options, including the louage, the Sahel Metro train, or a convenient private transfer. You can read about the different types of transport in Tunisia here.
Taking the Sousse to Monastir Louage
Tunisia’s louages are a popular and extremely affordable way to travel from Sousse to Monastir. Louages are shared minivans that run frequently throughout the day, usually departing from the main louage station near the Sousse bus terminal. Most services operate between 07:00 and 19:00, making it an easy fit for a day trip from Sousse to Monastir.
The louage station in Sousse is the Al Lawajat Station; it’s a 2.3-kilometer (1.4 miles) hike from the Ribat, so if you’re staying to the north of Sousse, it’s not necessarily the most convenient location.
It usually takes around 30–40 minutes to go from Sousse to Monastir in a louage, depending on traffic, and it’s a no-frills travel experience. Buy tickets directly at the louage station, at the ticket booth, and then you’ll be directed to the right van. Comfort is basic, louages are efficient and reliable. Louages from Monastir to Sousse cost 2.4 TND. You’ll need to pay cash for the louage. Read my guide to Tunisian currency and cash here.
In Monastir, the louage station is much more central, just off the Rue de Libya, close to the Metro Sahel Station.
The Sousse to Monastir Train, aka the Sahel Metro
The Sahel Metro is a light rail system and one of the easiest, most scenic ways to travel from Sousse to Monastir. Unlike a subway, it runs above ground along Tunisia’s beautiful Sahel coast, offering great views during your journey.
Sousse’s station is at Bab Jdid and is easy to find, along the waterfront, just 800 meters (half a mile) from the Ribat.
Trains run frequently throughout the day, and the trip usually takes around 30 minutes. Tickets cost 1 TND and you can buy them at the station, either from a ticket window or a machine. The main station in Monastir, Gare de Monastir, is right in the city center, making it convenient for sightseeing. The ride is comfortable, clean, and reliable, perfect for day trips or longer stays.
Sousse to Monastir Private Transfer
If you’re short of time or staying in one of the resort hotels in Sousse, then a private transfer from Sousse to Monastir is the easiest option. This door-to-door service picks you up from your hotel and drops you directly at your destination, saving time and hassle. The journey typically takes around 35 minutes, depending on the location of your hotel, traffic, and offers air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers.
You can book a taxi from your hotel, but you’ll need to pay in Tunisian dinars. If you want to pay online, then bookings can be made in advance via Bookaway, allowing you to secure your preferred departure time and vehicle type. It’s more expensive than the louage or train, but a heck of a lot easier if you don’t want to walk to the louage station or the metro Sahel.
Tips for Traveling from Sousse to Monastir
If you’re carrying luggage, then a private transfer is the easiest way to get to Monastir from Sousse. The train is the cheapest and the louage is a little slice of Tunisian life.
The quickest way to get from Sousse to Monastir
If you’re near the train station or prefer a fast, direct ride, the Sahel Metro or a private transfer is the quickest way to reach Monastir.
The easiest way to go to Monastir from Sousse
A private transfer is the easiest option, offering door-to-door service from your hotel. The train is also straightforward, departing frequently and stopping right in central Monastir for convenient access to sights and beaches.
The cheapest way to go from Sousse to Monastir
The train, aka the Sahel Metro, is the most budget-friendly choice.
The best way to go from Sousse to Monastir
The “best” option depends on your style: the train is fabulous for scenic views and convenience, louages offer a local experience on a budget, and private transfers give comfort and flexibility, perfect for hassle-free travel.
TUNISIA TRAVEL RESOURCES
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
24/7 pickup & drop off. Trusted, local English speaking drivers. Prebook & prepay online with cards.
Book a Transfer
HOTELS AND APARTMENTS
See choices here
Sea view rooms? Budget rooms? Need a washing machine? The best choice of hotels & apartments.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
Most excursion choices, small group tours, skip-line tickets, free cancellation and top local guides.
Top options here.
CAR RENTAL OPTIONS
Choose cars here
Best choice of vehicles, automatics, large or small cars, child seats. Book early for more options.
Final Words on How to Go from Sousse to Monastir
Traveling from Sousse to Monastir is easier than many expect, with options to suit every budget and travel style. Louages offer an authentic, low-cost experience for those happy with a basic ride, while the Sahel Metro train is perfect if you want speed, comfort, and scenic views along the coast. Private transfers provide the ultimate convenience, especially if you’re traveling with luggage, in a group, or just want a stress-free journey.
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