How to Plan Your Tunis Day Trip to Kairouan, El Jem, & Sousse

If you’re planning a trip to Tunis and looking to experience some of Tunisia’s rich history and culture, you should consider booking a day trip to Kairouan, El Jem, & Sousse. This full-day tour is organized and offered by GetYourGuide, and it includes visits to some of Tunisia’s most iconic landmarks and historical sites. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect on this tour, how to prepare for it, and what to bring along.

Experience

This day trip will take you on a journey through some of Tunisia’s most important historical sites, from the Aghlabite Basins of Kairouan to the El Jem Amphitheatre and the Medina of Sousse. You’ll have the chance to learn about Islamic and Roman history in Tunisia, marvel at the architecture of the Great Okba Mosque, and stroll through vibrant marketplaces.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of the Kairouan, El Jem, & Sousse day trip:

• Visit the Aghlabite Basins and learn about the Kairouan era
• Marvel at the architecture of the El Jem Amphitheatre
• Witness the largest Roman monument left in Africa
• Stroll through the Medina and spend free time shopping
• See the beautiful Great Okba Mosque and Sidi Sahbi

Full Description

The tour will begin with a pick-up from your hotel in Tunis. You’ll then head to the ancient city of Kairouan, located about an hour and a half from Tunis. Here, you’ll visit the Aghlabite Basins, which are one of the most impressive hydraulic systems of the Middle Ages. They were built in the 9th century as part of the city’s water supply system, and they are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also have the chance to visit the Tourist Information Building, where you’ll get an introduction to the history of Kairouan and the Aghlabite dynasty.

Next, you’ll visit the Great Okba Mosque, which is the oldest mosque in North Africa. The mosque was founded in 670 AD, and it has been rebuilt and renovated several times over the centuries. The current structure dates back to the 9th century and features beautiful arches, domes, and intricate mosaics. You’ll also see the Sidi Sahbi Mosque nearby, which has a beautiful courtyard and an impressive minaret.

From Kairouan, you’ll then head to El Jem, a small town known for its impressive Roman ruins. Here, you’ll visit the El Jem Amphitheatre, which is the largest Roman monument left in Africa. The amphitheatre could hold up to 35,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and other events. It’s now a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Finally, you’ll head to Sousse, a coastal city known for its vibrant markets and beautiful architecture. Here, you’ll have some free time to explore the Medina and do some shopping. The Medina of Sousse is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it features narrow streets lined with shops and traditional houses. You’ll also have the chance to see the magnificent Ribat of Sousse, a fortified monastery that dates back to the 8th century.

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll be dropped off back at your hotel in Tunis.

Booking

If you’re interested in booking the Kairouan, El Jem, & Sousse day trip, you can do so through the GetYourGuide website. The tour costs $65 per person and includes transportation, a licensed guide, and lunch at a local restaurant. To book the tour, click here.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to explore Tunisia’s rich history and culture, the Kairouan, El Jem, & Sousse day trip is a must-do. With visits to ancient landmarks, vibrant marketplaces, and impressive monuments, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories of Tunisia’s unique heritage.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Tunis

If you are planning a trip to Tunis, you are in luck. This vibrant and historical city sits next to the Mediterranean and boasts a rich heritage dating back to the Phoenicians. With its fascinating culture, diverse architecture, and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in the city. If you want to dig deeper and discover some of Tunis’s hidden gems, keep reading our insider’s guide!

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While Carthage, Dar el-Bey, and the Bardo Museum are popular tourist attractions in Tunis, there are many lesser-known gems worth exploring. The Sidi Bou Said neighborhood near La Marsa is full of charming blue and white houses and local art galleries. For a glimpse into everyday life in Tunis, head to the bustling Medina and visit the souks of Rue Jemaa Zitouna or the colorful wool market of Souk El Berka.

If you’d like to escape the city and discover the great outdoors, explore the lush Bardo Gardens to the west or the La Goulette beach and docks to the north.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine & History

Tunis is famous for its flavorful cuisine, and there are many excellent dining options to try. For an authentic Tunisian meal, head to Dar El Jeld in the old Medina or sample grilled seafood at La Goulette Harbor. If you want something sweet, try the traditional Tunisian almond pastry, kaak warka.

Tunisian cuisine has a long and fascinating history, incorporating influences from Ottoman, French, and Berber cultures. If you want to learn more about Tunisian food culture, take a cooking class or a food tour that will give you an insight into the local spice markets or cheese and olive oil producers.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Art, Music, and Customs

Tunis is rich in cultural experiences, from the annual Sufi Music Festival in November to the Carthage International Film Festival in October. For a more hands-on experience, take part in a traditional weaving workshop or a pottery class in a local ceramics workshop.

Tunisians are proud of their cultural traditions and love sharing them with visitors. Whether it’s trying on a traditional outfit, attending a traditional wedding, or learning more about Tunisian architecture, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Tunis has a rich and diverse history spanning thousands of years, from its founding as a Phoenician colony to its role in the Arab Spring. Explore the remnants of ancient Carthage, browse the impressive Roman mosaics at the Bardo Museum, or learn about Tunisia’s colonial history at the Dar Ben Abdallah Museum.

One little-known fact is that Tunisia played a crucial role in World War II when the Allies invaded North Africa. To learn more about this fascinating period of history, visit the North Africa American Cemetery and Memorial or the Prime Minister’s Office, where General Eisenhower had his headquarters.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable & Unique

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, try out a camel trek in the Tunisian Sahara Desert or visit the Star Wars film sets scattered throughout the country. If you are in Tunis in August, be sure to attend the Festival of Reggae or the El Jem International Festival of Classical Music.

If you are a fan of surreal experiences, tour the Bardo Museum’s mysterious Collection Spéciale, which holds strange and unexplained objects from Tunisian history. Or, head to the Bellevue parking lot at sunset and witness the unmissable nightly spectacle of Tunisians gathering with their classic and vintage cars.

In conclusion, Tunis is an exciting and impressive city that has much to offer beyond the typical tourist hotspots. With this insider’s guide, you can get a unique and fresh perspective on Tunis that will make your trip unforgettable. Bon voyage!