Tunisia offers the perfect vacation destination, whether you’re searching for sun, sand and sea or want to have a wonderful road trip on a rented car. From its troglodytic desert to palm-peppered beaches to an eclectic blend of Arabic and Roman history – Tunisia has something to please everyone’s tastes. Carthage’s expansive ruins are one of the country’s top attractions. Here, you can admire remnants of bathhouses and shrines dedicated to gods who once reigned over the ancient world.
El Djem Amphitheatre
El Jem, or Thysdrus in Roman times, is an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Tunisia’s top attractions. This magnificent building has hosted thrilling hand-to-hand battles between gladiators and wild beasts for more than 1,700 years, captivating visitors from around the world. Even today, its ruins remain majestic. Constructed in the 3rd century, it was originally intended to accommodate up to 40,000 people – making it one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in Africa and one of the third-largest worldwide.
Climb to the top level and explore the ruins of this vast structure, or descend into tunnels that would have housed wild animals or gladiators. Though not as famous as Rome’s ruins, El Jem is less visited, offering plenty of freedom for you to explore on your own. Another unique characteristic of El Jem’s Amphitheatre is its water system, rather than traditional open-air basins found elsewhere. This was an innovative decision by the Romans because it helped keep things cool during hot summer days.
In addition to the amphitheater itself, its surroundings are filled with intriguing ruins that should be explored. It’s best to spend an entire day here as there is so much beauty to behold. For instance, you can explore the remains of an ancient Roman villa that was surrounded by a huge pool, or marvel at an exquisite mosaic floor reminiscent of Egyptian pyramids. Both sites have been meticulously preserved and the mosaics depict scenes from life during Rome’s reign.
If you’re curious to discover more about the Roman Empire, then make a trip to this stunning site. Its history is captivating and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget. If you’re visiting Tunisia, don’t miss a day trip to El Jem. Just a short drive away from bustling tourist towns like Sousse and Sfax, this ancient site provides an insight into Tunisia’s fascinating past.
Monastir Riba
Monastir Riba is one of Tunisia’s most significant holy sites and must-visit for any trip there. Constructed in 796 as a military fortress, its rooms have been carefully restored throughout its history to maintain its relevance today. Monastir’s two mosques remain today as a quiet and serene destination to visit. You can take pictures of the stunning architecture throughout the site as well.
Another popular tourist destination in the region is Chebika, an Eden-like oasis featuring curious caverns and waterfalls framed by rocky clefts. It has been featured in many films such as The English Patient and Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. Sidi Bou Said, a sleepy village just 10km from Monastir, is known for its blue and white buildings that rise majestically above the Mediterranean Sea. Spend your day here exploring its narrow streets and visiting its traditional market.
It’s worth taking a tour of the city’s museums and galleries which contain artefacts from its long history. Highlights include the National Movement Museum, which documents the country’s struggle for independence, and Costume Museum. If you’re seeking an escape from Monastir’s oppressive heat, then taking a day sail or exploring the Mediterranean coastline is highly recommended. Many resorts in this area provide idyllic settings for boating and dining al fresco.
Skanes is worth visiting for its beaches and stunning villas and hotels built with traditional Tunisian architecture. Additionally, there are numerous archaeological sites within the city limits, such as Ichkeul Lake which draws thousands of migratory birds annually. In addition to the attractions mentioned above, there is plenty more to see and do in Monastir. To plan an enjoyable visit, research what interests you most and then make necessary arrangements ahead of time so that you can savor your time fully.
The Medina
History buffs or those just wanting to explore its maze of alleyways will find plenty to see and do in Medina. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, making it an incredible destination to discover. The Medina of Tunis is an intricate maze of streets and alleyways, covered passageways and souks (markets). It was one of North Africa’s most significant historic centres from the 12th to 16th centuries when it rose to prominence as one of Islamic Ifriqiya’s wealthiest cities.
More than 700 monuments from this era remain today, such as palaces, mosques, madrasas and fountains. The Medina has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers visitors to Tunisia an unforgettable and immersive experience. At the forefront of contemporary art in Tunisia, is Tunis. Two major projects such as INTERFERENCE and Dream City use public space and draw inspiration from both inside and outside old buildings for their artistic productions.
Many visitors to Medina are mesmerized by the stunning array of intricately decorated doors found throughout its alleyways. These intricate designs are meticulously detailed and filled with powerful symbolism. Other notable attractions include the stunning Kasbah of Tunis, an architectural wonder with countless arches painted white and black. You can also explore the ancient cemetery Jannat al-Baqi, believed to be where some of history’s greatest prophets rest.
Take an exciting excursion to Madain Saleh Tombs, where researchers have uncovered evidence of a pre-Islamic city with elegant palaces carved out of rocks. Tunis has a vibrant architectural and historical heritage, but has undergone significant transformations over the years. Nevertheless, this has not diminished Tunis’s intrinsic value of its urban fabric or architecture.
The city is well-protected by an impressive network of walls and gates, which contribute to the historic centre’s identity. You can take a stroll along these walls for an impressive overview of its architecture.
Djerba
Djerba is an island off Tunisia’s shores renowned for its Mediterranean beaches and whitewashed desert towns with influences from Berber, Arab, Jewish and African cultures. It’s also a popular destination among golf enthusiasts. Houmt Souk, located inland from the beach, is worth exploring for some shopping and traditional cuisine. Plus, it’s home to Borj el Kebir – a 16th-century fortress with stunning views of the ocean.
Midoun, located 16 kilometers southeast of Houmt Souk, offers visitors an opportunity to experience local culture firsthand. Its weekly market is the biggest on the island and draws large numbers of tourists each Friday. While you’re there, make time to visit the local museum. Its dioramas provide an insightful look into the region’s traditions.
Djerba’s ancient past saw it as an important Phoenician trading center and later, a site of North African Jewish pilgrimage. One of Jerusalem’s Temple gates is believed to have been transported there in 70 CE. Today, Djerba’s Jews live in peaceful coexistence with their Muslim neighbors. Their vibrant community serves as a model of peace and tolerance between different religious groups, serving as testament to how people from various backgrounds can coexist harmoniously.
Due to the growing threat of Islamic militants, Tunisia’s government has recently tightened security around Djerba’s Jewish population. Despite these difficulties, Jews on Djerba continue to practice their ancient traditions and are proud of their heritage in their home country. Djerba is a popular vacation spot for tourists from Europe and the US due to its stunning sandy beaches. The island features plenty of resort hotels and offers plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay.
Djerba is an ideal destination for family vacations or just to unwind with friends. Its stunning beaches and year-round climate offer plenty of chances to take a peaceful break. If you want to take advantage of all that Djerba has to offer, consider booking a private tour with an experienced travel expert. Not only will you have access to various activities during your time here, but you may even get lucky enough to experience some crocodile safaris and horseback riding!
