Full Day Kairouan and El Jem Tour from Sousse – A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re planning a visit to Monastir, Tunisia, and want to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kairouan and El Jem, then the Full Day Kairouan and El Jem Tour from Sousse is a perfect choice. In this tour, you can experience the best of both worlds in a single day without having to worry about transportation or other hassles. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you plan your tour and make the most out of your visit.

Overview of the Tour

This small-group tour is designed to provide a hassle-free tour of two of Tunisia’s UNESCO-protected sites, El Djem and Kairouan, without any transportation worries. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Sousse in an air-conditioned minivan. You’ll be accompanied by a professional guide throughout the tour who will give you insightful information and help you dig deeper into the stories and secrets of these two fascinating sites.

What’s Included

The tour includes lunch, hotel pick-up and drop-off (if option selected), and admission fees to the attractions. The tour is limited to 15 people, providing a personalized experience. The tour doesn’t include drinks or gratuities.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts with pick-up from your hotel in Sousse. You’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned minivan at the time specified during booking. Please be ready at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Itinerary

Here is a detailed itinerary of the Full Day Kairouan and El Jem Tour from Sousse.

Stop 1 – El Djem Colosseum

The tour starts with a visit to El Djem Colosseum, located in the town of El Djem. The Colosseum is one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will provide you with insightful information about the history of the Colosseum, including how it was used during the Roman Empire. You’ll also get a chance to explore the underground chambers and pathways that were used to transport wild animals and gladiators to the arena.

Stop 2 – Kairouan Mosque

After visiting El Djem, the tour continues to Kairouan, which is home to the Great Mosque of Kairouan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mosque is one of the oldest and most significant Islamic monuments in North Africa. Your guide will take you on a tour of the mosque, explaining its rich cultural and architectural history. You’ll also get to explore the magnificent reservoirs or “sabats” that surround the mosque.

Stop 3 – Kairouan Medina

The third stop of the tour is the Kairouan Medina, which is the old city of Kairouan. You’ll get to explore the narrow alleys and markets of the Medina, which are famous for their handicrafts, textiles, and ceramics. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the Medina, giving you priority access to some of the most popular shops and highlighting the best places to shop.

Return Details

The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel in Sousse. You can expect to return to your hotel in the late afternoon or early evening.

Tips for the Tour

Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your Full Day Kairouan and El Jem Tour from Sousse.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

The tour involves a fair amount of walking, particularly when exploring the Medina. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes and shoes to make the most out of the tour.

Carry Cash

The tour includes lunch, but you may want to carry some cash with you to buy souvenirs or drinks during the tour.

Listen to Your Guide

Your guide is a knowledgeable expert on the history and culture of Kairouan and El Djem. Make sure to listen to them carefully and ask questions if you’re curious.

Booking the Tour

You can book the Full Day Kairouan and El Jem Tour from Sousse online through Viator, a trusted online travel agency. The tour is available on most days, and you can choose to be picked up from your hotel or meet your guide at a central location in Sousse. Click here to book the tour now and ensure that you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Book Your Tour Now

The Full Day Kairouan and El Jem Tour from Sousse is an excellent choice for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kairouan and El Djem in a single day. With a knowledgeable guide and hassle-free transportation, you’ll have a memorable experience that will stay with you forever. Book your tour today and enjoy the best that Monastir has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monastir

Monastir is a city located on the Mediterranean coast of Tunisia. This historic city is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque streets, and friendly locals. As a popular tourist destination, there are many questions that visitors may have about Monastir. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this charming city:

1. What is the best time of year to visit Monastir?

The best time of year to visit Monastir is during the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer. However, if you enjoy the hot weather and don’t mind the crowds, the summer months (June to August) can also be a great time to visit Monastir.

2. What are the top attractions in Monastir?

Monastir has many attractions that visitors will enjoy, including:

• The impressive Ribat of Monastir, a medieval fort that offers stunning views of the city and the sea.
• The beautiful Bourguiba Mausoleum, which honors the country’s first president with its striking architecture and peaceful gardens.
• The colorful and bustling Medina (old town), with its narrow streets, markets, and historic architecture.
• The many beaches in and around Monastir, including the popular Skanes Beach and the quieter Plage de Monastir.
• The lively Marina of Monastir, where you can watch boats come and go, dine at waterfront restaurants, and enjoy the views.

3. What is the best way to get around Monastir?

The best way to get around Monastir is by taxi or by renting a car. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive, and renting a car gives you more flexibility to explore the surrounding areas. However, if you prefer to walk, many of Monastir’s attractions are within walking distance of each other.

4. What are some traditional dishes to try in Monastir?

If you’re looking to sample some traditional Tunisian cuisine, here are a few dishes to look out for in Monastir:

• Brik – a crispy pastry filled with egg, tuna, and harissa
• Couscous – a staple dish made with steamed semolina grains and typically served with vegetables and meat or fish
• Makrouth – a sweet pastry made with semolina, dates, and honey
• Tagine – a slow-cooked stew typically made with lamb or chicken and vegetables
• Merguez – a spicy lamb sausage often grilled or served in sandwiches

5. Is Monastir a safe city for tourists?

Monastir is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any travel destination, visitors should take normal precautions to stay safe, such as keeping an eye on their belongings, staying in well-lit areas at night, and being aware of their surroundings.

6. What is the currency used in Monastir?

The currency used in Monastir (and throughout Tunisia) is the Tunisian dinar (TND). Visitors can exchange their currency for dinars at banks or exchange bureaus, and ATMs are also widely available. Many businesses in Monastir also accept credit cards, although smaller shops and markets may prefer cash.

7. What is the weather like in Monastir?

Monastir has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The average temperature in the winter months (December to February) is around 15°C (59°F), while the summer months (June to August) can see temperatures upwards of 30°C (86°F). Visitors should be aware that the hottest months can also be quite humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

8. What are some day trips from Monastir?

If you’re interested in exploring beyond Monastir, there are several day trips you can take, including:

• The ancient city of Carthage, located just outside Tunis and known for its fascinating ruins and beautiful setting overlooking the sea.
• The seaside town of Sousse, with its charming medina and impressive Ribat.
• The beautiful island of Djerba, with its white sand beaches, palm groves, and charming villages.
• The stunning Ong Jemel desert landscape, made famous by its appearance in Star Wars.

Book Your Tour Now

Monastir is a charming and historic city that offers plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy. From its beautiful beaches to its picturesque medina, there is something for everyone in this lovely Tunisian town. By following these tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your visit to Monastir and create lasting memories of your time in this wonderful destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Monastir

If you’re a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply enjoy lounging on white-sand beaches, Monastir is the ideal destination for you. This Tunisian town is renowned for its stunning mosques, beautiful buildings, and happy-go-lucky atmosphere. It is located on the Mediterranean coast, which means that the weather is great almost all year-round, and there are plenty of things to do, see, and experience. In this guide, we’ll explore all the best ways you can spend your time as a tourist in Monastir.

1. Visit the Ribat

The Ribat in Monastir is a fortress dating back to the eighth century. It’s considered one of the oldest Islamic fortifications and is exemplary of the Aghlabid architectural style. You can get a guided tour of the Ribat from the Museum of Islamic Art that’s located nearby. The building is quite huge, it covers a 3000 sq. m area and includes a mosque, a hospice, and other features. Exploring the Ribat will take you a few hours and is an ideal way to spend your first day in Monastir. Once you’re done, you can head to the Sousse Medina, which is located nearby.

2 .Explore the Medina of Sousse

Sousse is a neighboring town to Monastir, and it’s worth visiting to see its beautiful medina. The medina has existed for over a thousand years and boasts some of the most stunning architecture in the region. It’s also an UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means that it has historic value. You can explore the souks, narrow passageways, and appreciate the street art in the medina, plus a visit to the Dar Essid Museum which features Ottoman-era rooms and items.

3. Relax on the Beach

One of the things that Monastir is most famous for is its beaches, and there are plenty of options to choose from. The most popular is the Habib Bourguiba Avenue, which has a long coastline with sandy beaches and clear, blue waters. The beaches here are public, and you can rent an umbrella and a sunbed. Les Palmiers, and Skanes are other beautiful beaches that you can visit. If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, there are many small bays situated along the coast, which are perfect for a little tranquility.

4. Visit the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba

Habib Bourguiba was the first Tunisian president after Tunisia gained independence from France. He is highly regarded in Tunisia and was affectionately known as the father of the nation. His impressive mausoleum is built on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and is open to the public all year round. The mausoleum houses Bourguiba’s tomb, and it’s a peaceful and serene place to visit.

5. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Monastir’s culinary culture is so diverse, and it’s worth exploring to experience the different flavors of Tunisian cuisine. You can try mechouia, which is a salad made with roasted peppers; brik, a traditional Tunisian savory pastry filled with potatoes, eggs, herbs, and sometimes meat; and chakchouka, a stew made from tomatoes, peppers, and eggs. Head to the Old Harbour or Marina to find some of the best restaurants in town.

6. Take a Day Trip to El Jem

El Jem is a small town located less than an hour’s drive from Monastir. The main attraction is the El Jem Amphitheatre, one of the most iconic remnants of the Roman Empire that still stands today. The amphitheater is believed to have been completed in the second century and was used to host gladiator fights and other public events. It has a capacity of 35,000, and it’s one of the largest amphitheaters in the world—it’s an amazing place to visit and learn about Roman heritage.

7. Enjoy Watersports

If you’re a fan of water sports, Monastir is the perfect place to indulge your passion! You can go for a swim, go scuba diving, snorkeling, or try one of the newfound sensations in the region, parasailing. The beaches are safe, and you can enjoy these activities all year round.

Book Your Tour Now

Monastir remains one of the most captivating destinations on the Mediterranean coast of Tunisia—a place that’s rich in a variety of experiences, from savoring the local cuisine to immersing oneself in its Islamic heritage, lounging for hours on endless sandy beaches to exploring the architecture and stories of historical structures scattered throughout the city. Whether you’re a history aficionado, a beach bum, or an adventure seeker, Monastir has something for everyone. Don’t forget to bring a camera and capture all the amazing moments!