An under-appreciated island surrounded by sugar-like sand and cobalt waters might look like something you’d find in the Caribbean – but it’s actually less than 4 hours away from the constantly grey UK
Tourists find it ‘impossible to leave’ this picture-postcard island, that confidently competes with the tropical delights of the Caribbean.
Boasting bone-white beaches, turquoise waters, and sun-drenched plazas – this tiny island proves you don’t need to travel halfway across the world to find a slice of paradise. Located just off the coast of Tunisia, Djerba Island is a true melting pot of culture, history, and coastal living – and has miraculously avoided the tourist limelight.
Believed to have been described by Homer as the ‘land of the Lotus-eaters’, this isle attracted just 278,000 visitors in the first nine months of 2024 – a mere fraction compared to insufferably busy hotspots such as Spain and Greece. The low influx of holidaymakers is what makes this island so appealing – and why it needs to be on the top of your bucket list this summer.
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“Though a small island, Djerba contains the ingredients of many people’s idea of the ideal holiday vacation: soft, sandy beaches, warm Mediterranean waters, loads of activities, and an array of shops selling a good range of local handicrafts,” hail travel experts over at Lonely Planet. “It also sports a maze of cobblestone streets and a history of ethnic and religious diversity more pronounced than in the rest of the country.”
If you’re not a fan of spending the day chilling at the beach, don’t worry. Take a trip over to Djerba Traditional Heritage Museum to learn about the country’s fascinating history – spanning from the island’s Jewish history to the pottery industry and food sector. El Ghriba synagogue is also a sight to marvel at – with blue-painted columns, multi-coloured tiles and stained glass housing worships since the 19th century.
You can fly directly to Djerba from just two UK airports: London Luton and Manchester. Flights take on average around three hours and 25-minutes, and appear to be provided exclusively by easyJet. If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab return fares for as little as £119 in July*.
While Djerba has become a hotspot for huge all-inclusive resorts, staying on the island doesn’t have to cost you a small fortune. For example, a week’s stay (Monday, July 7 -14) at the no-thrills Hotel Djerba Inn will set you back just £572. This is based on two adults sharing a Double Room and works out at around £37.50 per person, per night.
Of course, if you are wanting a more luxurious visit, there are plenty of private villas, five-star hotels, and penthouse suites to choose from Check out the Radisson Blu Palace Resort, which is offering a Superior Room with Balcony and Lateral Sea View for £881 on the exact same dates.
*Prices based on Skyscanner and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.
What country is at the top of your bucket list this summer? Let us know in the comments section below