Discover Tunisia: The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary for Your Arabian Adventure

Tunisia is a country that’s been on my list for a while because it doesn’t get as much attention as some of the surrounding countries like Morocco and Egypt by American travelers and it’s known for the beautiful Mediterranean coast. I prefer Africa or Asia to Europe, for many reasons, but the biggest reason is for the culture and hospitality. I love visiting other Muslim countries and changing the narrative about these destinations.

Tunisia was colonized by the French so there is still a lot of French culture in the country. Most people speak French but they have a lot of influence from the French when it comes to the bakeries, use of language like Rue (street), transport, infrastructure, and more.

The mix between the country being in Africa but with French influence and the people being Arabs, it makes for an interesting mix.

I found Tunisians to be super friendly, kind, progressive, and very relaxed. Even though tourism from Europe is quite common, they were still excited to chat with me or invited me for a meal or a chat.

At no point did I feel unsafe, I felt very comfortable walking around on my own, taking public transport, staying at hotels alone, and walking through the bazaar. I also didn’t experience any scamming or price gouging.

Without further ado, here is my 7 day itinerary recommendation for Tunisia.

Day 1: Arrive in Tunis, Gateway to History

Begin your Tunisian journey in the capital city of Tunis, where ancient charm meets modern vibrancy. Tunisia is a small country so while one day seems little here, the next day you can technically stay in Tunis if you’d like and head to Carthage & Sidi Bou Said which are only 25 minutes away from the city.

In the city center, Dive into the captivating maze of the historic medina, home to treasures like the Zaytuna Mosque and the renowned Bardo Museum, showcasing awe-inspiring Roman mosaics. Indulge your taste buds with authentic Tunisian flavors at local eateries, setting the tone for a delightful exploration ahead.

Arrive in Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia.
Explore the historic medina (old town) of Tunis, including the famous Zaytuna Mosque and the Medina Quarter.
Visit the Bardo Museum to see its impressive collection of Roman mosaics.
Enjoy Tunisian cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Carthage & Sidi Bou Said: Echoes of the Past

Uncover the remnants of Carthage, a once-mighty empire, as you wander through its archaeological sites and marvel at the panoramic views of the Mediterranean from Sidi Bou Said’s picturesque cliffs. Lose yourself in the cobblestone streets adorned with blue and white hues, capturing timeless moments against the backdrop of azure waters.

Visit the ancient city of Carthage, exploring sites such as the Carthage Museum, the Antonine Baths, and the Carthage National Museum.
Take a stroll through the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said, known for its white-washed buildings and blue doors.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea from the cliffs of Sidi Bou Said.
Return to Tunis for the night.

Day 3: Dougga & Le Kef: Rural Charms

Venture into Tunisia’s countryside to discover Dougga’s UNESCO-listed Roman ruins, followed by the historical allure of Le Kef’s medieval kasbah. Wander through its winding alleys, immersing yourself in the region’s rich heritage and architectural wonders.

Drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dougga, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa.
Explore the well-preserved theater, temples, and other ancient ruins in Dougga.
Continue to the city of Le Kef, known for its medieval kasbah and historical architecture.
Overnight in Le Kef.

Visit the ancient city of Carthage, exploring sites such as the Carthage Museum, the Antonine Baths, and the Carthage National Museum.
Take a stroll through the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said, known for its white-washed buildings and blue doors.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea from the cliffs of Sidi Bou Said.
Return to Tunis for the night.

Day 4: Tozeur & The Sahara: Desert Escapade

Head to Tozeur, an oasis amidst the Sahara Desert. Here you’ll experience a different vibe, deep in the desert. Experience the magic of the Sahara with camel rides or 4×4 safaris, stay in a traditional desert camp, or go explore the Star Wars set.

There’s a beautiful 5 star property here that will deliver on pretty much all of that. The Anantara Tozeur is a stunning property in the desert that has a spa, 2 restaurants on site, and organizes all sorts of activities.

Drive to Tozeur, a desert oasis town known for its palm groves and traditional architecture.
Explore the medina of Tozeur and visit the Dar Chraiet Museum to learn about local history and culture.
Take a guided tour into the Sahara Desert and the Star Wars set
Go stargazing/relax at a camp/hotel
Spend the night in Tozeur (Anantara Tozeur Resort)

Day 5: Chott el Jerid & Matmata: Nature’s Wonders

Travel across the ethereal landscape of Chott el Jerid’s salt flats, marveling at its surreal beauty. Continue to Matmata, where you’ll get a glimpse into ancient Berber life. Interact with locals, learning about their traditions and cultural heritage.

Depart from Tozeur and drive across the Chott el Jerid, a massive salt flat.
Stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.
Continue to the village of Matmata.
Visit a Berber family.
Overnight in a cave hotel in Matmata.

Day 6: Kairouan: UNESCO Heritage Site

You can head to Sousse and spend the night there. Take a day trip to Kairouan, a city steeped in Islamic history and home to the iconic Great Mosque. It’s one of the more religious and spiritual areas of Tunisia. You can take a public mini van here and it won’t take you too long from Sousse.

You’ll want to come dressed appropriately. Women must have a headscarf, although sometimes they let you borrow at the sites. Explore the medina’s narrow streets, discovering hidden gems like the Aghlabid Basins, as you delve into the city’s spiritual and architectural treasures.

Must Do:

Visit Kairouan Grand Mosque
Visit Place Bouras: former palace during French occupation and now a beautiful, carpet store
Visit Bir Barrouta: water well powered by one camel
Visit Zaouia of Sidi Sahabi: dress appropriately as this is a mausoleum of one of the followers of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
Visit Mausolee Sidi Abid el Ghariani
Eat Makroudh: semolina dough pastry filled with dates that are famous in Kairouan
Eat Kafteji: a sandwich that originates from here with fried vegetables and eggs
Visit Aghlabid Basins: aqueducts that supplied water to a famous palace in the past
Explore the Kairouan souks

Day 7: El Jem & Departure

End your trip in Tunisia with your final big stop being El Jem’s majestic Roman amphitheater, a testament to Tunisia’s rich past. It resembles the colosseum in Rome.

Drive to El Jem to visit theRoman amphitheater, one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the world.
Explore the ruins of ancient Thysdrus and visit the El Jem Archaeological Museum.
Return to Tunis for departure!