Tunis , the largest city in Tunisia , combines the European-style Ville Nouvelle (New City) with an orderly European , vibrant , atmospheric old town . It was founded by French colonials in the 19th century . Its palm-lined boulevards are packed with shops , cafes , restaurants , and banks . It also has the midrange , faded-colonial French hotel . A story by itself , the lush hotel is famous for its distinct tall ceilings and balconies .
