ETERNAL TUNISIA: TRACING THE PATH OF HANNIBAL AND THE CAESARS -7 DAYS

Day 1: WELCOME AND ASSISTANCE AT THE AIRPORT (TUNIS)

This day introduces you to the modern, European-influenced side of the Tunisian capital before diving into the historical depth of your journey.

Arrival and Welcome

Arrival in Tunis: Upon landing at Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN), you will be warmly welcomed and transferred directly to your hotel for check-in.

The Modern Heart of Tunis

Spend the late afternoon discovering the city’s main thoroughfare, the central artery of Tunis, and its surrounding streets.

Architectural Diversity: This area is a showcase of various architectural styles. You will admire key landmarks, including the beautiful Municipal Theatre (Grand Théâtre), the imposing French Embassy, and the striking Saint Vincent de Paul Cathedral. This initial walk offers a perfect feel for the pulse of the capital.

Dinner and Accommodation in your 4-star hotel

Day 2: FROM TUNIS TO THE GRANDEUR OF ROME (DOUGGA – KAIROUAN)

This revised day focuses on a deep dive into the magnificent Roman ruins of Dougga before heading to the spiritual city of Kairouan for the night.

Morning: Dougga – Jewel of Roman Heritage

Early Departure: Depart from Tunis (at 8 o’clock) early in the morning to drive towards Dougga (Ancient Thugga).

Dougga (UNESCO World Heritage Site): We begin with one of the true jewels of archaeological heritage in North Africa.

This extensive archaeological site is renowned for having some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the region. You will spend the morning exploring highlights such as the magnificent Capitol, the remarkably preserved Theatre, and the remnants of its intricate mosaics (which were moved to the Bardo Museum), offering a profound glimpse of the grandeur of ancient Rome.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch near Dougga in Téboursouk.

Afternoon: Transfer to Kairouan

Drive from Dougga to Kairouan (140km)

Upon arrival in Kairouan, you will check-in to your accommodation (5 stars hotel ).

A focused visit to the spiritual and architectural treasures of Kairouan .

We explore the famous Great Mosque of Uqba (Mosque of Oqba), the exquisite Mausoleum of the Barber (Sidi Sahab), and the historic Aghlabid Basins.

Dinner and Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation in Kairouan.

Day 3: THE ALLURE OF ANCIENT CITIES (KAIROUAN – SBEÏTLA – ELJEM)

This day is a deep dive into Central Tunisia’s archaeological and spiritual history, featuring an extraordinary concentration of Roman and early Islamic heritage.

Morning : We continue the visits to kairouan

Experience the local market, famous for its carpets and the traditional sweet, Makroud.

Drive southwest toward Sbeïtla (Sufetula) and enjoy lunch nearby .

Afternoon , Sbeïtla Exploration: Spend the afternoon exploring this remarkable archaeological site, a witness to the history of the Roman world. Focus on the unique Capitol (with its three temples) and the remnants of its Byzantine churches.

Late Afternoon: Continue your journey to El Jem (Thysdrus) – The Colosseum of North Africa

Visit the archaeological highlight of this region: the spectacular Amphitheatre of El Jem. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best-preserved Roman coliseums in the world, rivalling the one in Rome for its size and preservation.

We continue to Sousse . Dinner and Overnight (4-star hotel).

Day 4: RETURN TO THE CAPITAL VISITING ENROUTE : (SOUSSE – ZAGHOUAN – OUDHNA – TUNIS)

This day offers a transition back toward the capital, blending the lively coastal atmosphere of Sousse with a final, significant look at Roman ruins at Zaghouan and Oudhna.

Morning: Sousse Immersion: Begin the day with a visit to the historic and lively coastal city of Sousse.

You will stroll through the famous Souks of Sousse, where the sights, sounds, and smells of spices, textiles, and crafts blend to create a sensory experience like no other. Explore the fortified Ribat and the Medina (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

We continue to Zaghouan . Lunch and visits

Oudhna and Scenic Drive

Oudhna (Uthina) Visit: Head north and visit the impressive Roman archaeological site of Oudhna (Uthina). This major site features one of North Africa’s largest Capitols and a remarkable amphitheater.

Scenic Route to Tunis: The journey back to Tunis takes you through the beautiful countryside, a land that reveals lush citrus and olive groves and vineyards caressed by the Mediterranean breeze.

Evening: Dinner and Preparation

Dinner and Overnight: Dinner and overnight accommodation ( 4-star hotel ) in Tunis

Day 5: THE CULTURAL SYMPHONY (TUNIS – BARDO – MEDINA)

This full day is dedicated to the historical and cultural heart of the Tunisian capital, blending the treasures of ancient empires with the vibrant life of the Islamic city.

Morning: Bardo Museum – The Story of Empires

Bardo National Museum: Begin the day with a focused visit to the renowned Bardo Museum.

Explore the mosaic treasures that tell the story of North Africa’s empires, from the Punic era through the Roman and Byzantine periods. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Roman mosaics.

Afternoon: The Vibrant Medina

Medina of Tunis (UNESCO World Heritage Site): After lunch, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural life of the historic Medina of Tunis.

Immersion: As you explore the narrow, winding streets of ancient Medina, you will be enchanted by this historic heart, filled with bustling markets (souks). It is here that history intertwines with the beauty of the landscape to create an eternal symphony of passion and romance.

Key Landmarks: See major sites such as the Zitouna Mosque (Great Mosque) and the Dar Ben Abdallah Palace.

Dinner and Overnight: Enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation in Tunis.

Day 6: CARTHAGE, WINDOW ON ANTIQUITY (UTICA – SIDI BOU SAID – CARTHAGE)

This day is a highlight of the itinerary, exploring the monumental legacy of the Punics and Romans alongside the renowned charm of Tunisia’s most picturesque town.

Morning: Ancient Utica

Utique (Utica): Head north-west for the final archaeological exploration at Utique.

Exploration: Visit this key archaeological site, which holds a significant place in history as the first Phoenician colony in North Africa, predating Carthage. Explore its well-preserved Roman villas and mosaics.

Back to Lagoulette for lunch

The Rise and Fall of Carthage

Carthage (UNESCO World Heritage Site): We begin with a deep dive into the ancient city that stands as a testament to Tunisia’s Phoenician and Roman heritage.

Panoramic Views: Founded in the 9th century BC, and once a major center of trade and culture, you will explore its scattered ruins, including the Antonine Baths and the Punic Ports. Climb the imposing Byrsa Hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Gulf of Tunis.

Continue to the nearby picturesque and charming coastal town of Sidi Bou Saïd, often recognized for its stunning aesthetic, Sidi Bou Saïd is famous for its unique architecture of whitewashed buildings and brilliant blue accents.

Return to Tunis for Farewell dinner and overnight

Day 7: DEPARTURE

Transfer to the airport. You leave this legendary land, which was once the granary of Rome, rich in its exceptional heritage and original traditions.