Tunisia 2023 Travel Itinerary

Tunisia, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural treasures, offers a fantastic travel experience in 2023. This travel itinerary will guide you through the best attractions and activities to make the most of your visit to this Mediterranean gem. To travel to Tunisia, you will need to obtain a Tunisian visa. The type of visa you require will depend on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay.

Introduction

Tunisia is a sought-after holiday destination known for its affordability, historical significance, and proximity to Europe. Nestled by the Mediterranean Sea, it boasts stunning coastlines, dramatic mountain ranges, and the vast Sahara Desert. 

The country's heritage spans millennia, from charming coastal towns to ancient cities, making it a captivating destination.

Day 1: Explore the Capital - Tunis

Morning:

• Begin your journey in Tunis, the capital city.
• Visit the enchanting Medina district, dating back to the 12th century.
• Stroll through narrow streets filled with souks, including El Attarine, El Berka, and Ech-Chaouachine.

Afternoon:

• Explore newer city streets, home to monuments like the Royal Mausoleum of Tourbet el Bey.
• Discover the historical treasures at the Bardo Museum, showcasing artifacts dating back 40,000 years.
• Visit the National Military Museum to delve into Tunisian history through the lens of various wars and battles.

Day 2: Sidi Bou Said - Coastal Gem

Morning:

• Take a short 20-minute drive to Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque coastal town.
• Admire Ottoman and Andalusian architecture, featuring white-washed buildings with blue domes.
• Explore art galleries like Galeri A Gorgi and the Selma Feriani gallery.

Afternoon:

• Visit historic residences turned museums, including Dar El Annab and Ennejma Ezzahra.
• Enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Tunis while wandering the cobbled streets.

Day 3: Hammamet and Sousse - Beach Getaways

Morning:

• Head an hour south to Hammamet, Tunisia's original beach resort.
• Explore the charming medina and the miles of fine white sands and turquoise waters.
• Engage in water sports or simply relax on the calm and shallow beaches.

Afternoon:

• Continue your journey to Sousse, known for its lively nightlife, Unesco-listed medina, and coastal fort.
• Explore the Souq Er Ribba and El Kayed shopping areas.

Day 4: Sahara Desert Adventure

Morning:

• Embark on a journey south to Douz, the gateway to the Sahara Desert.
• Choose from various guided tours on dune buggies, 4X4s, and camels.
• Explore Jebil National Park and Ksar Ghilane oasis, and camp in traditional Berber tents.

Day 5: Roman History - Carthage and El Jem

Morning:

• Explore the ancient city of Carthage, once a rival to Rome.
• Visit the Punic Ports, Antonine Baths, and the Carthage Museum.
• Learn about Tunisia's rich Roman history and culture.

Afternoon:

• Continue your journey to El Jem, home to the well-preserved El Jem amphitheatre.
• Marvel at this 3rd-century Roman construction, often compared to the Coliseum in Rome.

Day 6: Oasis Retreat

Morning:

• Head west to Tozeur, a base for exploring picturesque oases.
• Discover Chebika, known for its palm trees and waterfalls.
• Explore Tamerza with its towering mountains and waterfalls.

Afternoon:

• Visit Mides, known for its narrow canyons and stunning views.
• Explore the Corbeille oasis in Nefta, featuring jagged rocks and hidden pools.

Day 7: Berber Traditions and Star Wars Filming Locations

Morning:

• Explore Matmata and Tataouine, recognized as Star Wars filming locations.
• Experience Berber traditions, including unique homes carved into rocks.
• Visit the iconic Hotel Sidi Driss, Luke Skywalker's home in Star Wars.

Afternoon:

• Discover Tataouine's hours, fortified buildings used for grain storage.
• Visit Oued Soltane and Haddada, also used as Star Wars filming locations.
• Explore the entire set of Mos Espa near Tozeur.

Day 8: Chott el Djerid Salt Lake

Morning:

• Visit Chott el Djerid, a surreal salt lake featured in Star Wars.
• Marvel at the shimmering salt deposits and unique colors of the lake.
• Add this extraterrestrial landscape to your southern Sahara tour.

Day 9: Kairouan - Historical Gem

Morning:

• Explore Kairouan, a city dating back to the 7th century.
• Wander through the UNESCO-listed medina, featuring blue windows and arches.
• Admire the Great Mosque, a universal architectural masterpiece.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Mosque of the Three Doors with its intricately sculpted facade.
• Appreciate Kairouan's significance in Arab-Muslim civilization.
• Note that non-Muslim visitors can admire the exteriors of these buildings.

Conclusion

Tunisia's 2023 travel itinerary promises a diverse and enriching experience, from historical sites and coastal towns to Sahara adventures and cinematic landscapes. This Mediterranean jewel beckons travelers to explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.