Day Trips & Excursions: Tunis

Nearby Destinations

Within day-trip distance, these locations present unique cultural and historical experiences.

The TGM train connects Tunis to Sidi Bou Said, Carthage, and La Marsa. For Dougga, consider a rental car or an organized tour for direct travel.

Sidi Bou Said Itinerary

Take the scenic TGM train journey.
Wander cobbled streets, browse artisan shops.
Visit Dar El Annabi, a traditional house museum.
Enjoy mint tea at a cliffside cafe, soaking in Mediterranean views.

Nearby Destinations Continued

Explore further into Tunisia's ancient past and modern coastal life with these accessible excursions.

Carthage

Located about 20 minutes from Tunis by TGM train, Carthage invites a half or full day of historical exploration.

Carthage Exploration

Visit the impressive Antonine Baths.
See the Carthage Museum on Byrsa Hill.
Explore the Roman Amphitheater and Punic Ports.

La Marsa

About 40 minutes from Tunis by TGM train, La Marsa offers a tranquil coastal experience.

Coastal Relaxation

Relax on the sandy beach.
Stroll along the corniche.
Enjoy local cafes and restaurants.

Dougga Thugga

Description & Accessibility

Located 100 km southwest of Tunis.
Best reached by rental car or private tour.
Allow 1.5-2 hours drive each way.
A UNESCO World Heritage site of Roman remains.

Itinerary Suggestions

Explore the intact Capitol and Roman theatre.
Wander through the Forum and ancient Baths.
Spend 3-4 hours on site for a full appreciation.
For a deeper dive, consider a Guide to Roman Tunisia.

Transportation Options

Independent TravelFlexibility to set your own pace and budget.
Public TransportAvailable for nearby locations (TGM train).
Rental CarFor destinations further away, like Dougga.
Your Own ScheduleExplore based on your preferences.

Organized ToursConvenience, transportation, and guides.
Logistical SimplicityUseful for remote destinations.
Guided InsightsExpert knowledge enhances the visit.
Effortless PlanningAll arrangements handled.

Time Allocation

Plan half a day to a full day for Sidi Bou Said, Carthage, or La Marsa. For Dougga, dedicate a full day including travel time.

Natural Escapes

Beyond its urban and historical sites, Tunis is a gateway to areas of natural beauty, from coastal stretches to burgeoning mountain ranges.

Cap Bon Peninsula Context

A scenic peninsula east of Tunis known for coastlines, fertile citrus groves, and charming towns.

Cap Bon Transport

A rental car comes recommended for flexibility; buses connect to major towns like Nabeul and Hammamet.

Cap Bon Itinerary

Drive coastal roads, visit Nabeul's pottery, relax on Hammamet beaches, and explore Kerkouane ruins.

Scenic Landscapes

The drive to Cap Bon showcases pleasant scenic landscapes.

Further Natural Beauty

The Atlas Mountains rise in Tunisia's interior.
Reaching hiking areas often needs more than a day trip.
Wildflowers bloom across the countryside in spring.

Beaches, Rural Areas & Mountains

Tunisia presents diverse geographical features for exploration.

Examples for Each

La Marsa and Hammamet for beaches.
Agricultural lands towards Dougga for rural areas.
Zaghouan mountain range for hiking opportunities.

Seasonal Natural Phenomena

Coastal WindsStronger winds possible, impacting beach activities.

Spring BloomWildflowers across the countryside in spring.

Olive HarvestAutumn showcases agricultural activities.

Mild WintersCooler weather ideal for inland exploration.

Summer HeatHigh temperatures on beaches and desert areas.

Migratory BirdsIchkeul National Park is a haven in winter.

Nature Exploration Advice

Check weather forecasts for outdoor activities.
Carry water, especially during warmer months.
Wear appropriate footwear for walking and hiking.
Consider sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
Respect local flora and fauna.

Cultural Excursions

Venture beyond Tunis to sites showing Tunisia's deep historical roots and cultural fabric.

Zaghouan & The Roman Water Temple

South of Tunis, Zaghouan is noted for its ancient Roman water temple, a water source for ancient Carthage.

Visiting Zaghouan

Visit the impressive Roman temple remains.
Explore the charming town of Zaghouan.
See aqueduct remnants on the drive from Tunis.

Rural Villages & Agricultural Areas

Witness Tunisia's agricultural backbone by driving through its fertile lands.

Scenery & Lifestyle

Explore endless olive groves.
Observe citrus farms.
Experience authentic rural Tunisian life.

Pilgrimage Sites

Tunisia hosts several significant Islamic pilgrimage sites, offering spiritual journeys and historical depth.

Kairouan: The Holy City

Kairouan: UNESCO World Heritage site.
One of Islam's most significant holy cities.
Renowned for its Grand Mosque (Mosque of Uqba).

More Spiritual Journeys

Kairouan also presents other historical and religious landmarks.

Kairouan's Features

Explore the ancient Aghlabid Basins.
Suitable for a full day trip from Tunis.
Combine with El Jem and Sousse for a longer trip.

Other Cultural Insights

Beyond specific sites, broader cultural experiences enrich your travel.

Local Traditions

Observe daily routines and community gatherings.

Artisan Workshops

Witness traditional crafts being made in the souks.

Storytelling & Music

Engage with local narratives and musical performances.

Cultural Immersion

Embrace spontaneous interactions and local invitations to deepen your cultural journey.

Multi-Day Extensions

Extend your Tunisian experience beyond Tunis with these recommendations for adding one to three days, or venturing on longer regional explorations.

El Jem & Sousse

1

The Colosseum Rival

Visit the magnificent Roman Amphitheater of El Jem, an UNESCO World Heritage site.

2

Sousse Exploration

Explore Sousse's historic Medina (UNESCO site) and its Ribat (fortified monastery).

3

Logistics

Train or bus from Tunis to Sousse (2-3 hrs), then local transport to El Jem (30-45 mins).

Kairouan

A UNESCO World Heritage site, one of Islam's most holy cities.
Accessible by bus or shared taxi (louage) from Tunis (about 2 hours).
Renowned for its Grand Mosque and the Aghlabid Basins.
Can be a full day trip from Tunis.
Combine with El Jem and Sousse for a longer regional journey.
Offers deep cultural and spiritual insight.

Southern Tunisia Sahara Desert

A multi-day trip (3-5 days) to Tozeur, Douz, and Matmata.
Explore unique desert landscapes and Star Wars film sets.
Witness the vast Chott el Djerid salt lake.
Experience traditional Berber culture and camel treks.
Domestic flights from Tunis to Tozeur.
Organized tours or 4x4 rental offer comfortable desert exploration.

Suggested Longer Regional Travel Routes

Tunis Hub

Spend 3-4 days exploring the capital region and nearby sites.

Coastal & Roman

Move to Cap Bon/Hammamet (2 days), then Sousse/El Jem (2 days).

Desert Adventure

Finish with Kairouan (1 day) and Southern Desert (3-5 days) for a comprehensive journey.

Plan Your Extended Journey

These extensions allow for a deeper immersion into Tunisia's diverse landscapes and heritage. Book experiences ahead of time on GetYourGuide day trips.

Day Trips & Excursions