2 Days in Tunis for First Timers

Get oriented this morning with a sightseeing tour around Tunis. Learn about the city’s ancient history and modern culture as you visit significant landmarks, such as Tunis El Manar University, the old French quarter, and the bustling and historic Tunis medina in the heart of the old city.

This afternoon, take a deep dive into the art of Tunisian cuisine with a hands-on cooking class with a local family. Shop for traditional ingredients in a local market, and learn to prepare several dishes based on your own tastes and interests. You’ll get to feast on your creations once you’re done.

While Tunis has a few bars and clubs, a favorite evening pastime—particularly in summer—is to relax on a café terrace along Avenue Habib Bourguiba, the city’s central thoroughfare. Stop for a cup of tea or a casual dinner and some people watching among the locals.

This morning, get a crash course in Tunisian history with a visit to the Bardo Museum. One of the most important museums in the country, the Bardo sits within a 15th-century palace, where an exceptional collection of Phoenician and Roman artifacts are on display.

Your morning museum visit sets the scene for a half-day excursion to the ruins of Carthage, birthplace of Hannibal and the former capital of the Punic empire. Visit with a guide to learn more about the area’s history and archaeological work, and soak up the stellar views of the Gulf of Tunis from the top of Byrsa Hill.

In the late afternoon, make your way to the cliffside village of Sidi Bou Said, considered one of the prettiest spots in Tunisia. Spend some time strolling the cobbled streets and watch the sunset over a cup of mint tea on an outdoor terrace.