Many of the attractions to see in Tunisia can be included in a circuit, as the surface area of this country is not as large as others, so much of it is manageable in a single trip. In this post, we show you precisely the places of interest that we usually include in our programs, so you can assess what type of tour you want to enjoy.
Carthage: the Pride of the Punic Past
The ancient city of Carthage and the civilization it gave birth to (the Punic) are undoubtedly a source of pride among Tunisians. It was a city founded by the Phoenicians that became their natural heir when it fell into the hands of the Persians. It was a sea-oriented people, dominating the western Mediterranean until it came into conflict with the Romans and succumbed to them, but not without putting up a good fight in the Punic Wars.
The third of these Punic Wars resulted in the destruction of Carthage, which is why its archaeological site (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) consists of scattered ruins, but of enormous value. In particular, the Punic ports, which are visited panoramically on the circuits, stand out with the spectacular circular port that housed the Punic marine fleet: its innovative shape allows us to imagine the high levels of development it achieved. Other interesting ruins in the enclosure are the Baths of Antoninus Pius.
Other Archaeological Sites to See in Tunisia
After the fall of Carthage, Rome became the master and ruler of all North Africa. And what is now Tunisia was part of the province of Africa. Here, some of the most spectacular constructions of the entire empire were erected. And fortunately for travelers like you, many of them are preserved in an enviable state.
Special mention should be made of El Djem: this modern name refers to the ancient city of Thysdrus, where one of the most spectacular amphitheaters in the world can still be seen today. The enclosure had a capacity for more than 30,000 spectators, who delighted in the shows organized there, particularly gladiator fights. Of course, the site is declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
In this list of what to see in Tunisia, we cannot forget Dougga, which not only preserves Roman structures such as the Capitol or the Temple of Saturn, but also allows us to appreciate the imprint of previous inhabitants, such as a Libyan-Punic mausoleum, which is truly unique. The remains of the theater and the multiple columns scattered throughout the site give it an evocative touch.
Very significant is the so-called Temple of Waters, in Zaghouan, known as such because it is the birthplace of the aqueduct that supplied water to the city of Carthage and which had a length of… more than 130 km! Undoubtedly, a masterpiece of engineering located at the foot of the Tellian Atlas mountains that lovers of the ancient world will know how to appreciate in all its magnitude.
The Sahara: Dunes, Oases, and Troglodytism
Undoubtedly, another thing to see in Tunisia is the Sahara, one of the most fascinating deserts in the world. Or at least, you can venture into particularly significant corners, as it is a place of overwhelming dimensions. In Tunisia, this desert offers us some of the most characteristic spaces, whether they are dunes, lunar landscapes or oases.
The town of Douz is a good place to get in touch with the Sahara: it is known as “the gateway to the desert” and in fact, this is suggested by a symbolic arch on the road that leads to a festival enclosure. Here, numerous activities are organized, such as camel rides through the dunes, with their characteristic reddish sand formations.
Before reaching this point in the south of the country, the desert becomes palpable in the rocky and lunar landscapes that extend throughout the territory. Only the different oases that emerge almost spontaneously break the norm, with Tozeur being the “capital” of all of them. And sometimes, the resulting natural formations are truly surprising and unsettling, such as the salt lake Chott el Jerid where, if weather conditions are favorable, mirages occur.
Special mention should be made of the troglodyte villages, known as such because their indigenous Berber population has excavated the rock to insert their dwellings and other constructions. One of the most prominent places in this regard is Matmata, where there is a beautiful contrast between the golden-colored sandstone formations and the whitewashed doors and facades of the houses.
Cities, Towns, and Monuments of Arab Splendor
In Tunisia, some of the most monumental places of the entire Muslim civilization are located, as this territory (known as Ifriqiya in the early days of Islam) played a very important role. The best example of this is in Kairouan, where the oldest mosque in Western Islam (670 AD) is found, and although it has undergone expansions and modifications, its Umayyad and Abbasid architecture is palpable, representing a most significant mix of styles. It is considered by many as “the fourth temple of Islam” (after the mosques of Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem) and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for this reason.
But the beauty of Islam does not stop in Kairouan; it is equally visible in other destinations, such as Sousse, which also enjoys UNESCO recognition. Its medina also has another Grand Mosque, whose regularity and monumentality contrast with the labyrinthine layout of the old city streets. In addition, this city has one of the most interesting museums in the country, especially for its collection of Roman mosaics, and a ribat or fortress from the 9th century, very well preserved.
And if we look at the popular beauty of the everyday and the humble, we can highlight Sidi Bou Said, a small town on the shores of the Mediterranean configured by small houses, cobbled streets, and a village painted in white and blue, also decorated with numerous flowers.
But if we talk about the beauty of the popular, we cannot fail to mention the craftsmanship, an authentic hallmark of the country. In Tunisia, many high-quality items are produced, among which is pottery. In places like Nabeul, you can discover the mastery of its craftsmen, while visiting their workshop to learn about the production up close.
And regarding the capital, Tunis, located in the surroundings of ancient Carthage, here you can discover the Tunisian heartbeat of today, as well as visit the most renowned museums in the country, such as the Bardo Museum, with a collection of ancient mosaics in a palatial setting that impresses any visitor.
In short: the list of things to see in Tunisia is very extensive, but easily integrated into a circuit of approximately one week. Therefore, if you are planning to travel to this country and want to make the most of your experience, do not hesitate to ask us for advice to develop a tailored program. We will take care of all aspects related to the circuit (transportation, guided tours, accommodation), with premium quality services so that you enjoy from start to finish in this beautiful country of the Maghreb.
