Classic Tunisia
Hit the best spots with Engaging Cultures’ signature cultural authenticity. Explore Tunisia’s rich history through the various UNESCO World Heritage sites, and experience the heart of Arab culture in Tunisia.
Tour Highlights
Star Wars film locations
Sunset camel ride in the Sahara Desert
Explore the ruins of ancient Carthage & El Jem
Five UNESCO World Heritage sites
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
CLASSIC TUNISIA ITINERARY
DAY 1: Tunisia Arrival
Arrival at Tunis/Carthage International airport. We will begin with a walking tour of downtown Tunis (a UNESCO World Heritage site), followed by a welcome reception at the hotel.
Dinner and overnight in Tunis at El Mouradi Gammarth Hotel (5 Star hotel)
DAY 2: Ancient Carthage and Sidi Bou Said
Experience the rich history of Carthage, one of the most important ancient cities of the Mediterranean basin. Carthage is a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will explore the best of Carthage’s rich history including the Roman baths, the ruins of the ancient citadel on Byrsa Hill, the Phoenician Tophet, and a 4th century Christian basilica.
Spend the afternoon discovering the charm of one of Tunisia’s most picturesque villages, Sidi bou Said, with its colorful shops and bustling cafes. We will pause for an authentic North African mint tea at a favorite spot overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Dinner and overnight at El Mouradi Gammarth Hotel (5 star hotel)
DAY 3: Sousse
Free day in Sousse, with optional medina walk (UNESCO World Heritage site), Mediterranean beach or shopping.
Dinner and overnight at Movenpick Hotel (5 star hotel)
DAY 4: Sousse and Kairouan
Day trip to Kairouan. Considered by many the heart of Arab culture in Tunisia, Kairouan boasts the oldest mosque in Africa and a classic 9th century medina (both UNESCO World Heritage sites).
Dinner and overnight at Movenpick Hotel (5 star hotel)
DAY 5: El Jem, Matmata, and Douz
El Jem Colosseum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Continue south to Matmata to visit a Berber underground home, called a Troglodyte dwelling. A local resident will serve traditional bread with homemade tea. This region is perhaps best known as Luke Skywalker’s home in the Star Wars movies. Douz – Called ‘The Gateway to the Sahara,’ is a true desert oasis town where you will take an optional one-hour camel ride through the dunes at sunset.
Dinner and overnight at Sahara Douz Hotel (4 star hotel)
DAY 6: Douz and Tozeur
Find exotic items in the weekly town square market at Douz before crossing Tunisia’s largest salt flat, the Chott el Jerid, on the way to Tozeur. Tozeur is the grandest of all oases in the country containing over 400,000 date palms. Optional afternoon excursions in 4×4 vehicle to Star Wars film site or stunning Chebika mountain oasis.
Dinner and overnight in Tozeur at Ksar Rouge (4 star hotel)
DAY 7: Sbeitla, Sidi Bou Zid, and Sousse
Sbeitla is the best-preserved Roman city in southern Tunisia. Highlights include standing in ancient temples near the Roman Senate and Christian basilicas famous for their mosaic baptismals. Short visit to Sidi Bou Zid, the birthplace of the Arab Spring.
Dinner and overnight at Movenpick Hotel (5 star hotel)
DAY 8: Tunis
Return to Tunis from Sousse to prepare for departure and to purchase last-minute items. Celebrate the completion of your classic tour with a memorable meal at a well-known Tunis restaurant in the heart of the old-walled city.
Overnight at El Mouradi Gammarth Hotel (5 star hotel)
DAY 9: Tunis
Airport transfers and departure.
The above itinerary can be tailored to your exact interests and dates. Our private, bespoke tours include all accommodations, transportation, a professional English-speaking tour guide, entrance fees, activities, and above-listed meals.
Prices start at $2390 USD per person, based on a private tour for two persons. Contact us today for a hassle-free estimate.
Above Photo from the Talented Tunisian @its.fathi used by permission.