Kairouan and El Jem: Discover Tunisia's Historic Treasures

from $280

Duration

8 hours

Type

Guided, Private

Difficulty

Easy

Reviews

(3)

4.33 /5

About This Tour

Start your journey with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Tunis or Hammamet.

Then head for Kairouan, a holy city founded in 670 A.D. that flourished under the Aghlabid dynasty. Visit the Great Mosque of Kairouan, the Aghlabid basins and the Mausoleum of Sidi Sahib. Take time to explore the Kairouan medina and enjoy a typical lunch.

After lunch, set off for the small village of El Jem. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site: the El Jem amphitheatre. Admire North Africa's largest amphitheater and one of the world's best-preserved Roman monuments, seating up to 35,000 people.

Finally, return to be dropped off at your accommodation.

Destinations

El Jem, Kairouan

Activities

Language

English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Themes

Arts / Culture, Bus / Minivan Tours

Operator

WONDERFUL TUNISIA

Inclusions

Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Bottled water
Professional guide

Exclusions

Food & Drinks
Tips
Gratuities

Tour Plan

Kairouan
Kairouan is a fascinating city located in the central part of Tunisia, away from the coast in a landscape of steppes. As one of Islam's holy cities, it was the first capital of the Maghreb and is known for its rich history and culture. The city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is famous for its Great Mosque, which dates back to the 9th century. Visitors can enter the courtyard of the mosque and observe the prayer hall, which is a majestic forest of arches and ancient columns. The mosque's minaret is inspired by the lighthouse of Alexandria and offers breathtaking views of the city.In addition to the Great Mosque, Kairouan is famous for its traditional handmade carpets, which are produced using techniques that have been passed down for generations. Visitors can explore the city's many carpet shops and workshops, where they can see the intricate weaving process and purchase their own handmade carpets.Kairouan is also home to the Zaouïa Sidi Saheb, also known as the "Mosque of the Barber," a beautiful monument with large patios decorated with brightly colored tiles. Outside of the city, visitors can discover the Aghlabid Basin, considered the largest water works in the Muslim world, built in the 9th century and earning Kairouan the nickname "City of tanks".Overall, Kairouan is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the rich history, culture, and architecture of Tunisia.

El Jem
El Jem is a small town located in the central region of Tunisia, known for its impressive Roman amphitheater, the Colosseum of El Jem. This ancient monument is one of the largest amphitheaters in the world, with a capacity estimated at 35,000 spectators. Visitors can marvel at its imposing size and explore the underground tunnels that once housed the gladiators and wild animals.In addition to the Colosseum, El Jem has a variety of shops and restaurants for visitors to explore. The Symphony Cafe, located near the Colosseum, offers a breathtaking view of the ancient monument and is a popular spot for visitors to take a break and enjoy a coffee or a meal.Overall, El Jem is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history and architecture of the Roman Empire, and for those who want to experience the unique culture

Meeting / Pickup

Pick-up only: Customers must be picked up from selected pick-up locations.

Know Before You Go

Stroller / pram accessible

Please Note

Not wheelchair accessible
Not suitable for pets
No public transportation nearby
Infants must not sit on laps
Infant seats unavailable
Not recommended for people with heart conditions
by email

Cancellation Policy

We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the event
We will charge a cancellation fee of 0% if booking is cancelled 1000 days or less before the event

Reviews

4.33/5

Wonderful

3 verified reviews

Location (4.67/5)

Amenities (4.33/5)

Services (4/5)

Price (4.33/5)

Rooms (4.33/5)

3 Comments

Jo Taylor June 27, 2023
4.2
- Location
- Amenities
- Services
- Price
- Rooms
From the moment I hopped on the minibus, I felt a sense of excitement for the journey ahead. The drive through Tunisia’s landscapes was mesmerizing, and once I reached Kairouan, I was immediately swept away by its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. El Jem’s impressive amphitheater left me in awe, a true testament to the ingenuity of ancient architecture. As a solo traveler, I appreciated the guide’s engaging stories that deepened my understanding of the local culture. One small note for improvement would be to include a bit more time for wandering between the sites; a few extra minutes to soak in the surroundings would have been perfect. Overall, this day was a delightful escape into Tunisia’s historic treasures, and I left with unforgettable memories.
O. Wilson March 1, 2024
4.2
- Location
- Amenities
- Services
- Price
- Rooms
Discovering the intricate mosaics in Kairouan was a standout moment for us, as we marveled at the detailed craftsmanship that tells stories of Tunisia’s rich history.
Aisha Tanaka May 15, 2024
4.6
- Location
- Amenities
- Services
- Price
- Rooms
Exploring the stunning amphitheater at El Jem was a highlight of our day, immersing us in Tunisia’s rich history. The vibrant streets of Kairouan offered a captivating glimpse into the country’s cultural treasures, with its intricate architecture and bustling markets. One minor suggestion would be to allow a bit more time for leisurely exploration, as we found ourselves wanting to delve deeper into the local life.