10 Best Things to Do in Tunisia

This massive 3rd-century structure will transport you back to Roman times. In its heyday, it could hold up to 35,000 spectators, making it the largest colosseum in North Africa. Built Corinthian-style, this amphitheatre is incredibly well preserved. Some say that it’s in better condition than the Colosseum in Rome.

The entire monument is open to the public: You can venture to the upper seats to take in the best views of the arena or roam underground passageways that once held gladiators and animals. Located just a 2-hour drive from Tunis, El Jem’s Amphitheatre makes for the perfect day trip.

Dotted with citrus groves, vineyards and beaches, the Cap Bon Peninsula is a picturesque getaway. Visitors looking to enjoy some sun, sand and sea are spoiled for choice with beaches like Plage Bouficha and Plage Les Citronniers in the resort town of Hammamet, known for fine golden sands and clear turquoise waters.

The tip of Cap Bon peninsula has wild unspoiled beaches like Plage de Sidi Mansour. It’s dotted with rocky coves, windswept sand dunes and beachgrass. Plage de Mansoura, with soft sugar sand and pretty rock pools, is another popular destination. Many of these spots are great for activities like parasailing, jet skiing and scuba diving.

Carthage, located close to Tunis, is a treat for history buffs. Soak in some spectacular views at Byrsa Hill, the heart of ancient Carthage, and peruse ancient artefacts such as masks and ornaments at the Carthage Museum.

The Antonine Baths, a 2nd-century bath complex with mosaic floors and colossal pillars, is a must-see. Other notable spots include the ruins of the Roman theatre, the Villa des Volieres and the enormous amphitheatre. There is a good bit of walking since the ruins are spread out. You can also choose to take a taxi from site to site or sign up for a tour.

Centred around the beautiful Al-Zaytuna Mosque, the Medina of Tunis is lined with rows and rows of souks that sell everything from shoes and carpets to pottery and jewellery. Head to the Perfumers’ Souk near the north wall of the mosque for some custom-blended perfume or wander to Souk des Chechias to see artisans craft tasselled felt hats.

If you are looking to shop in Sousse, head to Bab el Gharbi, located close to the Sousse Archaeological Museum. Here you will find spices, jewellery, fresh food and leather goods. Be sure to bargain.

With white and turquoise houses adorned by bougainvillaea and picturesque cobblestone paths, Sidi Bou Said looks like something out of a postcard. This coastal town retains a bohemian charm and has inspired artists and poets for centuries.

Spend the day perusing boutiques and art galleries, relaxing at cafes and soaking in the seaside views. You’ll find plenty of vendors selling handcrafted pottery and trinkets. Don’t forget to try a bambalouni, a honey-dipped doughnut popular with visitors. Sidi Bou Said is right next to Tunis.

This Islamic fortress is the crowning gem of the beautiful coastal town of Monastir. Built in the 8th century, the Ribat encompasses a series of passageways, stairwells and towers.

Wander into the inner courtyard to get a full view of the structure. Be sure to climb the Nador Tower, which rewards you with sweeping views of the nearby harbour, mosque and medina. Note that the towers are tall and steep, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for exercise.

Set in the southwest part of Tunisia, this desert city features distinct brick architecture and scenic palm groves. Nature lovers will delight in the Tozeur Oasis, an enormous desert garden with thousands of palm trees. You can take a horse-drawn carriage tour around this spot.

Traditional buildings with elaborate geometric brick facades line the medina. Here you can spend the day wandering alleyways and perusing the souks. There are plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure just outside the city – explore the largest salt flats in the Sahara at Chott El Djerid or admire beautiful waterfalls in the mountain oasis of Chebika.

Kairouan is one of the holiest cities of Islam and is considered Tunisia’s religious capital. History buffs will find a number of notable landmarks such as the Mosque of the Barber, the Mosque of Three Doors and the Great Mosque, which happens to be the oldest mosque in North Africa.

Kairouan’s medina is a sprawling maze of alleyways flanked by rustic buildings. Spend the day getting lost and discovering local shops and cafes. The region is also Tunisia’s premier carpet centre. Drop by one of the many carpet shops to admire some beautiful, handcrafted creations.

Pristine golden sands, palm trees and azure seas make Djerba an ideal beach escape. The most popular beach in the area is Plage Sidi Mahrez. Here you can ride a camel or horse, try water sports or take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean.

After a day of soaking in the sun, roam around the alleyways of Houmt Souk Old Town. You’ll find vendors selling jewellery, textiles, hand-painted pottery and other traditional crafts. End your day with a relaxing massage at one of the many spas in the area.

This small desert town is best known for its underground cave dwellings. Matmata shot to fame when it was used as a location for the 1977 Star Wars film. The cave structures have been inhabited by Imazighen for centuries, and visitors can come to learn about their way of life and explore the extensive network of underground chambers and passageways.

A number of fascinating spots are within easy reach of Matmata. Head to the Dunes of Tougach to ride a camel or visit historic sites such as the Royal Palace of Tataouine or the surreal-looking Ksar Ouled Soltane granary.