Overview
Discover the largest Roman monument left in Africa at the El Jem amphitheater. Visit the last 2 9th-century Aghlabite Basins which were among the greatest waterworks of the Middle Ages and learn about the Kairouan golden age.
Tour Highlights
Visit the Aghlabite Basins and learn about the Kairouan era
Marvel at the architecture of the El Jem Amphitheatre
Witness the largest Roman monument left in Africa
Stroll through the Medina and spend free time shopping
See the beautiful Great Okba Mosque and Sidi Sahbi
Schedule
Everyday
Duration
8h
Pickup Time
8:30 AM
Departure & Return points:
Departure Point: From your hotel in Tunis
Return Point: return to your hotel in Tunis
What’s included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Entrance fees
Lunch
Professional, local guide
Not Included
Gratuities; it is recommended to tip the guide 15-20% at the end of the tour
Itinerary
After being picked up from your Tunis accommodation, set off for Kairouan. Start your tour with a visit to the last 2 9th-century Aghlabite Basins which were among the greatest waterworks of the Middle Ages. Witness the monuments from the top of the Tourist Information Building as you gain an introduction to the foundation of Kairouan and its glorious age.
After this, continue the tour with a visit to the 7th-century Great Okba Mosque, the oldest mosque in North Africa. Appreciate the powerful and beautiful expression of faith inherent in the 9th-century architecture. Proceed to the nearby Sidi Sahbi, to visit the 17th-19th century building known for its minaret and beautiful courtyards lined with green-blue tile work and white plaster stucco. Then, arrive at the entrance to the Medina for a guided walk through the main street and up to the mystical “Bir Barrouta”. Spend some free time strolling through the Medina and shopping. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
Finally, climb back into the vehicle and take a 1 hour and 15-minute transfer to the El Jem amphitheater – the main attraction of the tour and one of Tunisia’s most visited sites. Discover how this monumental amphitheater was built in the 3rd-century and is the largest Roman monument left in Africa, ranking 3rd in the Empire after those in Rome and Verona. Marvel at its architecture which was considered to be an improvement of the Colosseum in Rome, though it is a tiny bit smaller. At the end of the tour, begin your return journey to Tunis where you will be dropped off back at your accommodation.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts
Know before you go
What to bring:
Passport or ID card
Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Sun hat
• This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility
• You must remove your shoes in the mosques and places of worship
• Please bring your passport or ID card