A list of Tunisian stops beyond Tunis, Tozeur & Hammamet.
It may be a daunting task preparing for a trip to Tunisia. As you’ll find out, there’s much to discover beyond Tunis, Tozeur and Hammamet. Here’s a thorough breakdown of each Tunisian city and what you must see in every region. The list contains popular destinations specifically for travelers, don’t be surprised if some towns or villages aren’t listed.
Unfortunately, it must be said that PLEASE communicate with your travel agent or anyone who has been to Tunisia. As the world knows, this country has been attacked by terrorists in recent years. Be sure to educate yourself with as much information as possible, so that you have a safe and stress-free vacation.
1. Tunis
The capital of Tunisia is most likely where you’ll be landing and taking off from. Famous sites that you should definitely see include: the Bardo Museum where you can see one of the world’s largest collection of Roman mosaics. Then, have you guide take you through landmarks where you can learn about the Carthage history at the Carthage Museum, the Tophet of Carthage and baths of Antoninus.
PHOTO Wendy Hung2. Sidi Bou Said
Nowadays attracting many tourists, Sidi Bou Said is known for its unique blue and white architecture. Back in the day, this place used to hub well known artists such as Paul Klee. When you find yourself wandering through its tiny alleys, make sure to souvenir shop since the main street is lined with boutiques and try different types of local foods.
PHOTO Wendy Hung3. Dougga
Two and a half hours from Tunis is Dougga where UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site as “the best preserved Roman small town in North Africa.” Approximately 160 acres of palaces, theaters and temples, Dougga is most famous for the time period during the Roman conquest, experts have found archeological evidence that ties Numidian-Berber, Punic, Roman and Byzantine history.
PHOTO Wendy Hung4. Kairouan
After Mecca and Medina, Kairouan is considered one of the most important Islamic cities in the world, particularly for Sunni Islamic scholarship. When you find yourself in this city, make sure to visit: The Great Mosque, The Mosque of the Three Gates and The Mosque of the Barber.
5. Sbeitla
Not too far from Kairouan is another must-see Roman archeological site: Sbeitla, this is where Muslim entered North Africa and Southern Europe.
Photo: Wendy Hung6. Tozeur
Tozeur is most famous for where the Star Wars saga was filmed. In the middle of the desert, Lucasfilm constructed a movie set which can be seen in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Travelers heading there today, can still check out the set and shop for souvenirs.
Photo: Wendy Hung7. Chebika
A village now with the population of a few hundred people, Chebika is a mountain oasis. Before, it was a Roman outpost, then the Berber refugees arrived.
Photo: Wendy Hung8. Douz
Known as the Gateway to the Sahara, Douz is located in southern Tunisia. Merchants from all over Southern Tunisia congregate to trade livestock here. You won’t find many camels here, but chickens, rabbits, pigeons, donkeys, horses, goats and sheep are frequently being sold.
Photo: Wendy Hung9. Tataouine
Tataouine is known for its beautiful cave dwellings, a special type of architecture that keeps the Berbers cool, protecting them from desert heat. Hike up the landmark is completely worth it, and this is also another famous site for Hollywood films.
Photo: Wendy Hung10. Medenine
Medenine where Star Wars: Episode I was filmed. Medenine has always been a significant trading city, today at the Gorfa complex is where you can shop for a ton of souvenirs. Sightseeing and shopping…the best combination ever!
Photo: Wendy Hung11. Djerba
Remember the story of Lotus-Eaters where Odysseus was stranded during his adventures through the Mediterranean? Djerba is the largest island in North Africa, and its vast beaches make it a trendy summer getaway for Europeans.
12. Matmata
Matmata is home of the Berbers today. Look for houses with blue doors that overlook the hill. The Berbers are an indigenous ethnic group in North Africa. They have their own way of living and language. In Tunisia, the government designated an area on the border of southern Tunisia for them to live. Eat at Hotel Sidi Driss (Matmatat-Al-Qadimal, Tunisia), it’s a cave like restaurant/hotel where Star Wars was also filmed.
Photo: Wendy Hung13. Gabes
Famous for its traditional souks, shopping for souvenirs is most likely what you’ll do here. Visit the beaches here, because only in Gabes can you find mountains, sea, oasis and the desert all rolled into one. The government is currently building a tourist zone making the area more travel-friendly. Make sure to check out the Lemawa beach.
Photo: Wendy Hung14. Sfax
Many consider Sfax as the second capital of Tunisia as the city has a Mediterranean port. So eat lots of fish here and make sure to hit up its impressive medina (market).
15. El Jem
Travelers never leave Tunisia without checking out the historical amphitheater in El Djem, which was built by the Romans during 238. As you probably guessed, it was mostly used for gladiators. Also recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Inside, you can also see where men and lions battled for life.
Photo: Wendy Hung16. Sousse
The Medina in Sousse is actually declared a World Heritage Site, because it is wrapped around by city walls and forts. Surrounding rows of vendors is a ribat castle, a beautiful mosque and a museum where you can visit Carthaginian catacombs.
Photo: Wendy Hung17. Hammamet
If you’re a die-hard water sports adventurer, then you’ve got to plan a few days in Hammamet to enjoy its popular beaches and resorts with extravagant pools. Hammamet is famous for its jasmine, so don’t leave here without some jasmine souvenirs!
Photo: Wendy Hung