Bardo National Museum: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour in Tunis

Tunis, the bustling capital of Tunisia, is home to many amazing spots. One of the best places to visit here is the Bardo National Museum, a lavish palace that has been converted to a museum housing thousands of antique artifacts. A guided tour of the museum is a must-do for anyone looking to get an in-depth experience of the historical riches it contains. Here’s an overview of what’s in store for you on the Bardo National Museum skip-the-line guided tour.

What to Expect on the Tour

The skip-the-line guided tour of the Bardo National Museum allows you to experience its grandeur without having to wait in long queues. Your guide will take you through the various galleries and explain its many wonders, from the ancient Greek and Roman artifacts to hundreds of mosaics, sculptures and pieces of pottery. The museum also houses more than 3,000 coins, including some from the Phoenicians, ancient Greeks, and Romans.

The tour ends with a visit to the museum’s most impressive piece, a 7th-century mosque that was built by the Fatimid dynasty. After the tour ends, be sure to take some time to explore the museum’s gardens and admire its architecture.

What to Bring

Make sure you bring a camera along so that you can capture the amazing artifacts you will see on the tour. There are also several souvenir shops within the Bardo National Museum that you can visit after the tour ends.

Important Tips

The Bardo National Museum is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm. Be sure to make your reservations in advance as tours can get fully booked during peak tourist seasons. There are also a variety of discounts available for students and senior citizens, so it’s worth checking before you make your reservation. Lastly, make sure you wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot during the tour.

Conclusion

The skip-the-line guided tour of the Bardo National Museum offers tourists a unique opportunity to explore the vast historical riches this palace has to offer. From ancient coins and sculptures to impressive mosaics, you will be able to see a large part of Tunisia’s past in one place. If you’re looking for a memorable experience that is guaranteed to make an impression, then this is the perfect tour for you.

If you’re interested in experiencing the Bardo National Museum with a Guided Tour, then head over to GetYourGuide today and book your tour.

A Comprehensive Insider’s Guide to Tunis

Tunis is the capital of Tunisia, a North African country that borders the Mediterranean Sea. The city is a blend of ancient and modern architecture, creating an enchanting atmosphere for travelers. Tunis is a city steeped in history, culture, and art with an abundance of unique tourist attractions, historic sites, culinary experiences, and cultural activities for visitors to indulge in.

Things to See and Do

One of the must-visit places in Tunis is the iconic Bardo National Museum, which displays some of the most exceptional ancient Roman mosaics in the world. The museum is engaging and enlightening for history buffs, as it houses an extensive collection of Roman mosaics, statues, sculptures and artifacts dating back more than 1,000 years. The architecture of the museum is also striking, as it was once the residence of the Ottoman Bey.

Another place to visit is the medina of Tunis, which is one of the biggest mazes of alleyways and bazaars in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site has numerous traditional markets filled with souvenirs, spices, handicrafts, and street foods such as the famous Brik, a folded pastry filled with egg, cheese, and tuna or minced meat. The medina is also home to some notable landmarks such as the Great Mosque of Tunis, Sidi Youssef Mosque, and the Dar Hussein Palace.

The Zitouna mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Tunis, is a religious and historical symbol of Tunis. It was built in the 9th century and is the oldest mosque in the city. It is notable for its beautiful architecture and intricate decoration.

Another notable tourist attraction is the Carthage Museum, which presents the ancient history of the Phoenician city of Carthage, which was once the rival of Rome. The museum displays some of the invaluable artifacts excavated from the ruins such as coins, pottery, jewelry, and sculptures.

The village of Sidi Bou Said must not be missed. It is a picturesque village set on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea with stunning white houses, blue doors, and passageways. This idyllic town is also renowned for its art galleries, craft shops, and cafés.

The Best Places to Eat

Tunisia is a country known for its delectable food, and Tunis is no exception. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and so is its cuisine. If you’re looking for excellent Tunisian food, Chez Slah is the perfect choice. This restaurant offers fabulous Tunisian dishes such as couscous, brik, and lamb tagine, all cooked to perfection.

For something with a Middle Eastern vibe, try El Ali, where you’ll find authentic Iraqi and Lebanese dishes. Their shawarma, fattoush, and hummus are some of the best in the city.

Café El Bahia is another must-visit, known for its laid-back atmosphere and refreshing mint tea. The café also offers traditional sweet and savory pastries such as baklava, makroudh, and msemen.

Cultural Experiences

Tunis has a rich and diverse cultural scene, with plenty of activities that travelers can indulge in. The most notable is the International Festival of Carthage, held every year during the summer, which features concerts, music, dance, theater, and folklore acts from different parts of the world.

The Medina Festival is another popular cultural event that takes place during the month of Ramadan. The festival celebrates traditional music and dance, as well as the culinary culture of Tunisia.

Another way to embrace the local culture is through a visit to a Hammam, a traditional spa that dates back to the Ottoman period. The Bains de Carthage is one of the most famous spas in Tunis, where visitors can indulge in a relaxing steam bath, exfoliating body scrub, and massage for a true Tunisian experience.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to break away from the tourist crowds, Tunis offers some off-the-beaten-path experiences. Visit the suburb of Kram, located in the outer area of the city, to explore the stunning Kram Lighthouse. The lighthouse is a popular spot for photography, with a picturesque view of the sea.

Another option is a visit to the village of Dar Ben Abdallah, located in the heart of the medina. This preserved 18th-century mansion turned museum offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and interiors of wealthy Tunisian families.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, head to the Belvédère Park, where visitors can hike through the forest and slopes and discover the hidden caves and streams in the park.

Wrapping Up

From the ancient ruins and mosaics to the unique architecture and diverse culture, Tunis offers a wealth of exciting holiday experiences. With an array of stunning landmarks, fascinating museums, recreational activities, delicious food, and exceptional hospitality, Tunis is a city that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor.