Discover the colors, smells, and tastes of the Tunis Medina. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its outstanding authenticity, architecture, and craftsmanship. Explore the famous souks, such as the gold and jewelry market or the aromatic spice market, and try delicious street food, like brik or merguez sandwiches.
The Bardo Museum has one of the finest collections of mosaics in the world, representing three millennia of history in Tunisia. Afterward, head to Sidi Bou Said, a charming village with lovely white and blue houses overlooking the Mediterranean coast. Savor a mint tea at a panoramic café, enjoy a panoramic view of the sea and discover the art galleries and boutiques that offer handmade crafts and ceramics.
Kairouan is the fourth-holiest city in the Islamic world, with the Great Mosque of Kairouan as its heart, a masterpiece of symmetry and refinement. Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kairouan, including the Aghlabid Cistern, the Medina, and the Sidi Sahbi Mausoleum. Don't miss the opportunity to taste Kairouan's famous dates and pastries known as "makroudh".
Experience the beautiful Sahara with a visit to Tozeur and Nefta. Tozeur's old town, "Ouled El Hadef", is famous for its beautiful traditional doors and is home to the Dar Cherait Museum, which displays wax figures of key moments in the Tunisian history. In Nefta, one of the most spiritual towns in the region, visit the holy mosque of Sidi Bou Lifa, and the charming oasis of Zaafrane. Try the unique flavors of Tozeur's traditional cuisine, like lamb couscous, tajines or brick a l'oeuf.
Explore the gateway to the Sahara with a visit to Douz, the "Gateway to the Sahara", and Matmata, the iconic film location where Star Wars was filmed. Ride a camel in the Erg Oriental, a sea of golden dunes that will take your breath away. In Matmata, discover the unique troglodyte architecture and the underground houses that have been inhabited for centuries. Try the local Berber bread and olive oil.
Head to Djerba, the largest island in north Africa, and explore the old town of Houmt Souk. Visit the famous El Ghriba Synagogue, the Islamic Museum, and the Guellala Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions. In the evening, enjoy the catch of the day at a beachfront seafood restaurant where they cook the fish on tables set on the sand.
Discover the charms of the Kerkennah islands, a magical archipelago located in the Gulf of Gabès, off the coast of Sfax. Explore wonderful beaches, try the local seafood and, if you are lucky, witness traditional fishing techniques using falous boats or wooden canoes. Visit the local market and try the "kaak warka", a traditional crunchy bread with powdered sugar.
Depart from the Tunis Bardo Airport with memories of the beautiful sites and delicious flavors of Tunisia.
Travelers should consider renting a car to visit the sites outside of Tunis, like Kairouan, Tozeur, Matmata, and Douz. Domestic flights are available but expensive. Taxis are a great way to get around Tunis and are more budget-friendly than renting a car.
Travel Costs: Car rental TND 150/day + gas TND 60-80/day, Domestic airfare TND 300-800, Taxi TND 20-50 per ride
If you have more time available, consider visiting other beautiful destinations in Tunisia, such as Tabarka, Hammamet, or Bizerte. If you have less time, you can skip the Kerkennah Islands or Douz and Matmata.
Tunis Carthage International Airport (TUN) is the main airport for international and domestic flights. It is located 7 miles from Tunis city center and offers various transportation options, including a train, taxi, or car rental.