I recently returned from a 10-day trip to Tunisia, and let me tell you, this country exceeded all my expectations. From spectacular Roman ruins to vibrant medinas and beautiful sandy beaches, Tunisia has it all. I was lucky enough to include all the highlights in my Tunisia itinerary, and I can't recommend it enough.
Caption: Spectacular sights await you in Tunisia
One of the things that surprised me the most was the lack of tourists, especially independent travelers. After the terrorist attacks in 2015, tourism in Tunisia took a nosedive, but it's slowly rebuilding. This means that you can enjoy the most popular attractions without the crowds. In fact, you might even have some exceptional sights all to yourself!
Caption: Enjoy the beauty of Tunisia without the crowds
Now, I know safety is a concern for many travelers, especially when visiting a country with a complex history like Tunisia. But let me assure you, I felt incredibly safe throughout my trip. Locals were friendly and hospitable, and I never felt uneasy for a second. Of course, it's important to follow common sense and check the safety warnings issued by your Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but in general, there's nothing to worry about when visiting Tunisia.
Caption: Tunisia is a safe and welcoming destination
If you're considering a trip to Tunisia, I've prepared a 10-day itinerary that will help you plan your own adventure. I spent 10 days in the country, although I wouldn't count days 1 and 10 as they were mostly spent on travel. However, the more time you have, the better. Not only can you see more amazing attractions, but you can also relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
How to get around Tunisia
During my trip, I used a combination of different modes of transportation, including suburban trains, fast trains, louages (local minibuses), domestic flights, taxis, and Bolt. The Tunisian railways website is a good resource for long-distance trains, but keep in mind that tickets are only available for purchase at the train station. For domestic flights, I used Tunisair Express.
Caption: Transportation options in Tunisia
Best places to visit in Tunisia
During my trip, I managed to see all the absolutely best places in Tunisia. Here are some of the highlights:
- Tunis: The capital of the country, with a beautiful UNESCO-listed medina and interesting architecture from the French colonial period.
- Carthage: Impressive ruins of the Phoenician city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sidi Bou Said: A charming town famous for its traditional white and blue houses.
- Bulla Regia: An impressive archaeological site known for its semi-subterranean housing and intact mosaics.
- Dougga: One of the best-preserved Roman ruins with original buildings from ancient times and a UNESCO site.
- El Jem: Home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world, also a UNESCO site.
- Sousse: The third-largest city in Tunisia, with a UNESCO-listed medina and a great Archaeological Museum.
- Kairouan: A holy city in Islam with an amazing medina and a stunning Great Mosque, another UNESCO site.
- Djerba: An island known for its long sandy beaches and alternative sites like murals and abandoned hotels.
- Chenini: An old Berber village built into the mountains.
- Tataouine: A city known for its Star Wars filming locations and inspiration.
- And many more!
If you have more time, there are other places worth considering, such as Hammamet, Nabeul, Monastir, Chott el Djerid, Sbeitla, Matmata, Tozeur, and mountain oasis villages.
Caption: Explore the rich history of Tunisia
Tunisia Itinerary
Here's a breakdown of my Tunisia itinerary:
Day 1: Arriving in Tunis
I arrived in the afternoon and checked into my hotel. Since it was already dark outside, I decided to stay in and rest.
Day 2: Day trip from Tunis to Carthage and Sidi Bou Said
I took a train from Tunis to Carthage and explored the ancient ruins. From there, I continued to Sidi Bou Said, a charming town known for its white and blue houses.
Day 3: Day trip to Bulla Regia, Dougga, and Testour
I joined a tour to visit Bulla Regia, Dougga, and Testour. These places are home to remarkable Roman ruins and impressive historical sites.
Day 4: Tunis - El Jem - Sousse
I took a train to El Jem in the morning and explored the incredible El Jem Amphitheatre. From there, I continued to Sousse, where I spent the rest of the day enjoying the beach.
Day 5: Kairouan
I took a day trip to Kairouan, a holy city in Islam, known for its stunning Great Mosque and charming medina.
Day 6: Sousse - Tunis
I explored the medina of Sousse and visited the Archaeological Museum. In the afternoon, I took a train back to Tunis.
Day 7: Tunis - Djerba
I took a morning flight to Djerba and spent the day exploring the artistic community of Djerbahood and visiting abandoned hotels.
Day 8: Djerba - Sahara - Chenini - Tataouine - Djerba
I joined a tour to explore the Sahara desert, Chenini, and Tataouine. It was an incredible experience, filled with breathtaking landscapes.
Day 9: Djerba - Tunis
I took a flight back to Tunis and spent the day exploring the medina and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 10: Departing from Tunis
I had an early morning flight back home, so I didn't have much time. But if you do, you can visit the Bardo Museum or explore the seaside town of La Goulette.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Tunisia
My Tunisia itinerary was jam-packed, but I managed to see all the highlights and still had time to relax. Tunisia truly has something for everyone, from history enthusiasts to beach lovers. If you're considering a trip, don't hesitate. Tunisia will surprise and satisfy you.
Caption: Tunisia will leave you with unforgettable memories
For more travel inspiration and updates, sign up for my newsletter or join my Facebook group dedicated to Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and the former USSR. And if you're planning your trip to Tunisia, consider using the handy links I've provided throughout the article.
Liked this itinerary? Pin it for later and start planning your adventure in Tunisia!
