Three crossings link Italy to Tunisia with GNV: Palermo–Tunis (~12 h, the shortest and cheapest), Genoa–Tunis (~22 h) and Civitavecchia–Tunis (~28 h) — from about €150 per foot passenger. All arrive at Tunis–La Goulette. Here is how to choose.
The 3 routes in one table
| Route | Duration | Foot from | Car + cabin up to | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palermo → Tunis | ~12 h | €150 | ~€1,100 | The shortest; ideal from southern Italy |
| Genoa → Tunis | ~22 h | €150 | ~€1,100 | From northern Italy, Switzerland, Germany |
| Civitavecchia → Tunis | ~28 h | €150 | ~€1,100 | From Rome and central Italy |
Palermo – Tunis: the shortest
12 hours at sea, often overnight: board in the evening, arrive in the morning. The fastest AND most economical option to Tunisia. The catch: you first have to reach Sicily (or cross it via Messina from the mainland). Perfect for combining an Italian holiday with the trip home.
Genoa – Tunis: the northern gateway
About 22 hours from the great Ligurian port. Genoa is 2 h from Milan, 3-4 h from Switzerland and 6-7 h from southern Germany: the natural route for Tunisians in northern Europe driving down. One night on board in a cabin and you disembark at La Goulette rested.
Civitavecchia – Tunis: from Rome
About 28 hours, the longest of the three. Civitavecchia is 1 h from Rome. This route makes sense if you live in central Italy — otherwise Palermo (shorter) or Genoa (further north) are better picks.
What about from France?
Marseille–Tunis (Corsica Linea, CTN) remains the direct French link: about 20 to 22 h at sea. It is generally more expensive than the Italian departures. Coming from south-eastern France, always compare Marseille and Genoa (3 h apart by road) — the price gap often exceeds the cost of the drive. See all Tunisia routes.
Documents for Tunisia
- Valid passport (6+ months recommended) — no visa for EU tourists up to 90 days;
- Dual nationals: the Tunisian ID card is accepted;
- Vehicle: registration in the driver's name, licence, green card insurance covering Tunisia, police form filled in on board;
- Ticket and booking confirmation.
Booking tips
- Book in March-April: opening promotions up to −40% (Genoa–Tunis from ~€99 during flash sales).
- Avoid 15 July – 15 August: +40 to 60% and full ships.
- Take a cabin on Genoa and Civitavecchia (1 night on board); a seat is fine on the overnight Palermo–Tunis if budget is tight.
Compare the three routes and book on Bladia — payment in 4 interest-free instalments from €500 and ANCV holiday vouchers accepted. Indicative early-2026 fares, to be confirmed at booking.