Tunisia: 8 Days of Adventure and Relax

From the golden sands of its stunning Mediterranean beaches to the ancient ruins of Carthage and iconic Star Wars filming locations, Tunisia offers an unforgettable blend of culture, relaxation, and cinematic adventure.

Ready to uncover Tunisia’s hidden treasures? Let’s dive in!

This is the list of everything you will find in this article:

As always, I will start with some general information about the country, and then I will go straight into the itinerary (with a map!).

A. Information of Interest

Location

The Republic of Tunisia is a country in North Africa, bordered by Algeria to the west, Libya to the southeast, and the Mediterranean Sea to the north and northeast.

Its capital, Tunis, is located in the north, at the end of the Gulf of Tunis.

Area

Population

Demonym

Tunisian.

Language

Currency

In my post, Currency exchange, cards, and cash abroad (Complete Guide), I explain restricted currencies. Additionally, this article provides all the essential information you need to know about money and travelling.

Plugs and Voltage

Remember that you can refer to my post Plug Types by Country to find out about the different types of plugs used in each country and the corresponding voltage. This will help you determine if you need an adapter and the specific type required. 

This information, along with everything else you might need to ensure your trip goes smoothly, is available in the Travel Logistics section.

When to Go to Tunisia and for How Long

Therefore, the best times to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (October-early November) when the weather is mild and perfect for desert exploration.

If you want to pick a different travel destination based on the most suitable time to visit, see my posts Best Time to Go and Where to Travel Each Month. It will help you plan your trip better.

The route I detail below is 8 days because I spent several days relaxing on its beaches, doing nothing.

In my posts, How Many Days I Need to Visit Each Country and How Many Days I Need to Visit Each City, I explain the number of days needed to visit each country and the most touristic cities.

Flag

The current flag of Tunisia was adopted in 1831, during the reign of Hassine I (Al-Husayn II ibn Mahmud).

It has a red background, symbolising the colour of the bloodshed during the Turkish conquest of the country.

In the centre, a white circle representing peace contains the crescent moon and star, also in white, traditional symbols of Islam.

Origin

Tunisia’s name is derived from the Arabic name of its capital, Tunis. There are various theories about its origin, one of which suggests that it comes from the Phoenician goddess Tanith, who was worshipped in Carthage.

Brief History

The history of Tunisia is quite extensive, but I’ll summarise it briefly:

• The area shows evidence of human existence dating back to the Paleolithic era. The Berbers, also known as Amazigh, were the first known settlers in the region, arriving in Tunisia around the third millennium BC.
• Ancient Carthage (814 BC): Founded by the Phoenicians, it became a mighty commercial power.
• Punic Wars (264–146 BC): They were a series of three wars between Carthage and Rome. Despite the challenges, Carthage displayed remarkable resilience. In the end, Rome emerged victorious, leading to the destruction of Carthage in 146 BC.
• Roman Province (146 BCE–5th Century CE): Carthage was rebuilt as a prosperous Roman colony and became a crucial part of the empire.
• Byzantine Rule (6th Century CE): After the fall of the Roman Empire, Tunisia came under Byzantine control.
• Arab Conquest (7th Century CE): Arabs introduced Islam, founded Kairouan and made Tunisia a centre of Islamic culture.
• Ottoman Era (16th–19th century): The country became part of the Ottoman Empire but retained a significant degree of autonomy, shaping its unique identity.
• French Protectorate (1881–1956): France established control over Tunisia, influencing its modern infrastructure and institutions.
• Independence and Republic (1956): Tunisia gained independence under the leadership of Habib Bourguiba, who became its first president.
• Modern Era (From 2011): Tunisia became the birthplace of the Arab Spring, which led to democratic reforms and the creation of a new constitution.

Interesting Facts about Tunisia

• Tunis is considered one of the most progressive cities in the Arab world. In 2018, Suad Abderrahim was elected as the first female mayor of an Arab capital.

• There are 2 intrinsic customs of the country that you should remember during your visit:
  1. Tipping. Everyone will expect a tip (waiters, hotel staff, drivers, taxi drivers, guides, etc.)
  2. Haggling. It is an essential part of the shopping process. No one expects you to pay the initial price, which is always excessive. Many people enjoy this system, but I find it exhausting!

B. How to Get Around Tunisia

Between Cities

2️⃣ Another option is to rent a vehicle. The roads are in good condition, but there are several things to keep in mind:

1. Traffic in major cities is chaotic, and cars are full of bumps, so it’s crucial to choose insurance with good coverage.
2. Choose the right vehicle for the places you want to visit. Remember that 50% of the country is deserted, and many areas are only accessible by dromedary or 4×4.
3. The country has a zero-tolerance policy with alcohol, so you won’t be able to drink even a beer with your meal.

If you are considering renting a car, I recommend reading my post, Car Rentals (Complete Guide), where I provide all the necessary information and tips to avoid any surprises.

3️⃣ You can also book a private or collective tour, especially to get to less accessible places.

4️⃣ Trains. The SNCFT company manages the trains. However, they offer few schedules and, apparently, are not very reliable. Also, they will not allow you to access all destinations.

Short Distances

For short distances, I recommend two options:

🅰️ Bolt. It’s similar to Uber, but it uses the same vehicles as regular taxis. As for the price, there’s not much difference with the taximeter, and you’ll know in advance the price you’ll pay without having to haggle!

All you need is the app on your phone and data connection. For tips on using your phone abroad without breaking the bank, check out my article Save at the Destination, which includes a specific section about Internet Abroad.

🅱️ Taxis are yellow and have a license sticker on the windshield. They are often reluctant to use the meter, so it’s a good idea to agree on a price before you get in, but make sure the price is not per person. If you do manage to get them to use the meter (good luck with that), check that they have reset it before you start your journey.

C. Tunisia: 8-Day Itinerary

Below is a map for visiting Tunisia in 8 days. Each day is colour-coded and numbered to indicate the order of the sites to visit.

1. Tunisia – Day 1

We will spend the first day relaxing on the beach and getting into a “holiday mood.”

2. Tunisia – Day 2

Today, we embark on an exciting journey with a very busy day ahead of us. We get up early to head north and visit some of the country’s gems:

a. Carthage

Founded by the Phoenicians around 814 BC, Carthage became a powerful city-state and an important trading centre in the Mediterranean. It rivalled Rome during the Punic Wars, led by General Hannibal.

After being defeated in 146 BC, Carthage was destroyed by the Romans, who later rebuilt it as a thriving Roman colony.

Throughout its history, Carthage was known for its maritime prowess, wealth and advanced civilisation. The city’s influence extended across North Africa and Europe, but its fall marked a turning point in the rule of the Roman Empire.

Since 1979, the ruins of Carthage have held the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to their historical significance and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

The archaeological site of Carthage spans centuries with its ruins and encompasses several sites rather than being limited to a single museum or building. We could spend the whole day exploring the site, but we will focus on the most essential points, which can be visited in about 2 hours.

1. Byrsa Hill

According to legend, Carthage was founded by the daughter of the Tyrian king, Elisa, who was fleeing from her political rivals. The original city still exists at a historic site called Byrsa Hill.

Carthage became an important centre of trade and military power in North Africa during the Punic era.

It features a well-preserved residential quarter from Hannibal’s time with carefully planned houses, some of which were up to five stories high, underground cisterns, and shops on the ground floor.

2. Acropolium of Carthage

This beautiful Roman Catholic church, built in 1890 on Byrsa Hill, was previously known as the “Cathedral of St. Louis of Carthage.”

This impressive church was constructed on the site of a temple dedicated to the Punic god of healing, Eshmun. Initially, it was devoted to St. Louis because it was believed that he was killed there during the Eighth Crusade.

It combines Byzantine, Gothic, and Moorish architectural styles and currently hosts public events and concerts.

3. Carthage National Museum

The National Museum of Carthage, founded in 1875 and opened in 1963, is also located on top of Byrsa Hill.

It showcases the grandeur of Carthage during the Punic and Roman eras with a collection that includes limestone and marble carvings, Roman mosaics, masks, jewellery and Roman amphorae. It also has items from the Byzantine period and ivory objects.

Unfortunately, when I went, it was closed for restoration, so I can’t tell you whether it’s worth it or not ☹️. I only got to see the outside.

🤑 The ticket purchased here allows access to all the historical sites in the Carthage area, such as the Roman Theatre, the thermal baths, the villas, etc.

4. Malik ibn Anas Mosque

Although it is not part of the archaeological site, it is on our route, so we’ll stop to see the Malik ibn Anas Mosque (formerly Al-Abidine Mosque).

Inaugurated in 2003, it has a surface area of ​​over 3,000 m² and can accommodate 1,700 worshippers. It offers a magnificent view of Carthage, the Acropolium of Saint Louis, the sea, and the hills of Sidi Bou Said.

5. Roman Theatre

The Roman Theatre of Carthage, built in the 2nd century AD, has survived the passage of time thanks to its complex architecture, which protects it from earthquakes.

With a capacity for more than 5,000 spectators, it was used for various cultural events in ancient times and was restored at the end of the 19th century.

Every summer, the Roman Theatre of Carthage hosts the International Festival of Carthage.

🧐 Do not confuse this theatre with the amphitheatre located next to the cisterns, as I’ve seen on some websites.

6. Roman Villas

It contains most of the remains of the patrician houses. Most of the villas, built in the 2nd century, are now in a poor state of preservation.

The best-preserved house, known as The Aviary, was restored and gives a good idea of ​​the beauty of the residences of this Roman city. The Aviary, which underwent a significant restoration in the 1960s, features pink marble columns, a courtyard and a bird-themed mosaic.

The site also includes a theatre called the Odeon, which was excavated in 1999.

7. Baths of Antoninus

The Baths of Antoninus, also known as the Baths of Carthage, are the most significant Roman thermal complex in Africa. They were constructed during Emperor Antoninus Pius’s rule between 145 and 162 AD. Despite centuries of looting, they were recognised as a historical monument in 1901.

The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Today, the ruins of the Baths of Antoninus, stretching over 300 metres, offer a hauntingly beautiful glimpse of their former grandeur. The missing vaults, which once soared to a height of over 29 metres, serve as a testament to their once-magnificent architecture.

8. Other Archaeological Remains

If you wish to spend more time at the complex, other points of interest at the archaeological site include:

• The Sanctuary of Tophet. This is a historic burial site known for its numerous children’s graves. Some historians speculate that the Carthaginians might have practised child sacrifice during challenging times. The site also features a Roman cemetery.

• Paleochristian Museum of Carthage. The exhibits in this open-air museum, discovered between 1975 and 1984, provide insight into the religious practices and daily life of the early Christians in Carthage.

b. Sidi Bou Said

After exploring the fascinating history of Carthage, we will head to Sidi Bou Said, a peaceful place ideal for relaxing and savouring the present moment.

Located approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) northeast of Carthage, it is a picturesque village known worldwide for its white walls, blue doors and windows, and stunning sea views.

Since the 18th century, Sidi Bou Said has been a vibrant hub for artists, a place that ignites creativity. Its resemblance to parts of Greece, evident in its colours and house decorations, only adds to its allure.

✳️ Recommendation:

c. Tunis

After relaxing in Sidi Bou Said, we will visit Tunis, the country’s capital.

With a population of nearly 700,000 inhabitants (2024), about 2.9 million including the surrounding areas, it is the most populated city in Tunisia.

It is also the centre of Tunisian political and administrative life, as well as the country’s commercial and cultural activities.

There are many things to see in Tunis, but we are going to focus on the most significant ones:

Medina of Tunis

The Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, dates back to the 7th century and is a labyrinth of narrow streets, souks, mosques, madrasas (Islamic schools for studying Islam and the Koran) and historical landmarks.

There are around 700 monuments spread over seven areas spanning a total of ​​280 hectares.

I couldn’t find the Café du Souk, not even with the GPS! The picture you see below was taken from another rooftop that I accessed through a carpet shop 😂

The Bardo Museum

Established in 1888, it’s one of the most important museums in the Mediterranean region. Due to the richness of its collections, it is the second museum on the African continent after the Egyptian Museum of Cairo.

The museum contains a significant collection of ancient artefacts, particularly its world-renowned Roman mosaics. Housed in a former palace, it showcases Tunisia’s rich history, from prehistoric times through the Punic, Roman, and Islamic periods. It’s a key cultural and historical institution, attracting scholars and tourists alike.

Central Market

The Central Market (Marché Central) was built by the French. This food market in Tunis offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, spices, and traditional Tunisian goods. 

Known for its lively atmosphere and colourful displays, it provides an authentic glimpse into Tunisian culture and local commerce.

Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul

The Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul in Tunis is the largest surviving Roman Catholic Church in Tunisia. It was built in 1897 during the French colonial period. 

It’s an excellent mix of Neo-Romanesque, Gothic, and Moorish architectural styles and is right in the heart of Tunis, near Avenue Habib Bourguiba. 

It’s a symbol of Tunisia’s religious diversity and colonial heritage. Today, it is still used as a place of worship for the Catholic community and is a cultural and historical landmark.

3. Tunisia – Day 3

After the busy previous day, today is the time to relax on the beach and in the pool.

4. Tunisia – Day 4

We have a busy day ahead of us, with lots of things to see and miles to cover, so we have to get up very early to start the route.

El Djem

The first stop on our journey will be El Jem or El Djem, which is located about 124 miles (200 km) south of Tunis and 44 miles (70 km) from Sousse.

The most significant monument here is the Colosseum, an oval amphitheatre built between 230 and 238 AD. It is incredibly well preserved and reflects Tunisia’s importance in the Roman Empire.

With a capacity for 35,000 spectators, it was the second largest in the Roman world, after the Colosseum in Rome (which had about 50,000 seats).

It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979.

Matmata

Next, we’ll visit a rock-cut village called Matmata.

It’s famous for its troglodyte houses, which are basically big holes dug into the ground, creating a large central courtyard with access to several rooms.

The rooms are like caves connected by tunnels and passages, and people actually live in them. Cool, right?

One of these troglodyte houses served as a set for George Lucas to film the interiors of Luke Skywalker’s house (Lars Homestead).

The interior of Owen, Beru, and Luke’s house is now the Sidi Idris Hotel. You can even sleep in Luke Skywalker’s room if you want, for a small fee.

Douz

We will spend the night in Douz, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara” because it is the starting point for desert excursions by camel, 4×4 or quad.

But first, we will make a short foray into the Tunisian Sahara to watch the sunset between dunes. Beautiful! 🤩

The annual International Sahara Festival (November-December) is held here, showcasing local desert culture.

Take the chance to try mint tea, a local speciality. I’m not a tea fan, but I have to admit that it’s delicious.

5. Tunisia – Day 5

Chott el Djerid

Today, we will start the day by crossing the Chott el Djerid salt lake.

It is a large salt lake in southern Tunisia, known for its otherworldly landscape. For most of the year, the lake is dry, revealing sparkling salt flats and surreal mirages. It is the largest salt flat in the Sahara and offers unique and striking natural beauty.

Chott el Djerid has also been used to film scenes from Star Wars. The entrance to the Lars family estate on Tatooine (home of Luke Skywalker) is located at the northwest end of the lake, next to the town of Nafta.

Ong Jemel

Ong Jemel, also known as “the camel’s neck”, gets its name from a large rock that resembles a camel. It is located in southern Tunisia, near Tozeur and the Chott el Gharsa salt lake.

To get here, you will need to hire a 4×4 vehicle or a camel ride.

I went in a 4×4, and it was quite an experience because my driver drove like we were in a rally. 😂

Mos Espa

The next stop is Mos Espa, the purpose-built Star Wars set. In the film, Mos Espa is a space settlement located in the lawless universe of Tatooine.

As with Ong Jemel, this location can only be reached by camel or 4×4.

It appeared in Episode I, The Phantom Menace and Episode II, Attack of the Clones.

Gafsa

It is also notable for hosting one of the largest phosphate mines in the world.

Kairouan

The last stop of the day will be Kairouan. It was founded in 670 and prospered under the Aghlabid dynasty in the 9th century. Even though the political capital was moved to Tunis in the 12th century, it remained the main holy city of the Maghreb.

In addition, Kairouan has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.

The city is also known for its impressive architectural treasures, including:

• The Great Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Uqba. Please note that only Muslims are allowed inside.

• The 9th-century Mosque of the Three Doors.

From here, we return to Sousse, which is about 34 miles (55 km) away.

6. Tunisia – Day 6

After 2 very intense days, we deserve a day of rest on the beach 😎

7. Tunisia – Day 7

Sousse

Today, we will spend the morning in Sousse, which is located near the hotel. We will visit its famous Medina and explore the local shopping opportunities.

Sousse is located in central-eastern Tunisia, about 87 miles (140 km) south of its capital and along the coast.

It is the third largest city in the country and a major port and commercial centre with a rich history. It originated as the Phoenician settlement of Hadrumetum and played a pivotal role in the Punic Wars.

The city’s old town (Medina) has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.

Things to see in Sousse:

The Great Mosque

The Great Mosque, founded in 851, is an important example of early Islamic architecture in Tunisia. It is located in the Medina of Sousse and had both religious and defensive functions, demonstrating the influence of the city.

Its fortress-like design distinguishes it from other mosques and gives an idea of ​​what Islamic architecture was like in North Africa at that time.

It has limited visiting hours for non-Muslims (mornings only), and only the courtyard is accessible.

The Ribat

The Ribat of Sousse, built in 821 AD, is a significant example of Islamic military architecture in North Africa. It served as a fortress and religious centre for Muslim soldiers (Murabitun), playing a key defensive role during the early Islamic conquests.

The Ribat watchtower, which can be climbed as part of the visit, offers panoramic views of the surrounding city and sea. Today, it is a notable landmark in the coastal city of Sousse and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Archaeological Museum of Sousse

The Archaeological Museum of Sousse is the second most important mosaic museum in the country, after the Bardo Museum in Tunis.

It is located along the walls of the Medina and houses mosaics from the 3rd-century Carthage and the Byzantine period.

Souk of the Medina of Sousse

The Souk is a bazaar where you can find souvenirs, soaps, kitchen items, food, spices and much more. Be prepared, however, for the harassment of shopkeepers trying to entice tourists.

Getting lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Medina is something you must experience. You will see some crowded with people in contrast to others where it is difficult to find anyone.

Sousse Promenade

This seaside promenade, along Hedi Chaker Avenue, is short but charming. People stroll, chat, and enjoy tea, coffee, and ice cream.

The walk takes between 10 and 15 minutes but can be extended by walking along the seafront to the north.

✳️ Recommendations:

8. Tunisia – Day 8

It’s the final day in Tunisia before heading home, so it will be the last opportunity to relax on the beach or by the hotel pool.

Other Places of Interest

• Dougga is one of the most impressive Roman cities in North Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its well-preserved ruins include temples, a forum, a theatre, and elaborate mosaics.

• Djerba Island. Famous for its white sand beaches, palm trees, and warm Mediterranean waters, Djerba is a popular tourist destination. It is also known for its rich Jewish heritage, such as the ancient El Ghriba synagogue, ceramic markets, and traditional souks.

• Cap Bon Peninsula. Cap Bon is a beautiful area renowned for its beaches, vineyards, and thermal springs. Visitors can enjoy seaside strolls, fresh seafood, and ancient landmarks, such as the Punic port of Kerkouane.

• Hammamet is another popular tourist destination, almost halfway between Sousse and Tunis. It stands out for its beaches, Medina, and military fort, which the Spanish built in the 12th century.

• Monastir. Similar to Hammamet, Monastir attracts a large number of holiday tourists due to its beautiful beaches. The main attractions here are the Ribat, built in the 8th century, and the mausoleum of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba.

Here, we end this adventure. Goodbye, Tunisia.

I hope you enjoyed this article.

Additional Information

📌 If you prefer to see them separated by continents, check them in Portfolios.

Alternatively, in the section Destinations, they are classified based on the type of trip:

• Amazing Experiences. It covers the most extensive and complete trips.
• Beach and Sea. For those who prefer quieter activities by the sea.
• City Breaks. Short trips with a single destination.

If you need any clarification, you can leave me a comment or fill out the contact form. I will be happy to help you 🙂

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