When you get off Tunis-Carthage Airport in North Africa, and you’re looking for a mix of history, culture, and adventure, Tunis is the place to be!
And there’s something about discovering Africa through traveling to similar places like Kenya in East Africa and Gambia in West Africa that’s simply fulfilling.
So forget the internet for a bit – the capital city of Tunisia has so much to offer, even if you only have 48 hours to explore!
Here’s a quick guide to help you make the most of your visit!
Day Trip 1: Diving into Rich Tunisian History
Morning: Explore the Medina of Tunis
Start your trip by visiting Tunis Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This old part of the city is full of narrow streets, colorful markets, and beautiful old buildings.
You can also shop for local crafts, spices, and traditional clothing. And you probably would need a durable bag so here’s a great one!
Don’t forget to walk through Bab El Bahr, a famous city gate that separates old Tunis from the new part.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot!
Afternoon: Byrsa Hill and the Bardo Museum
After exploring the Medina, head to Byrsa Hill, where you’ll learn about ancient city of Carthage, a city important during the Punic Wars.
It’s seriously as interesting as the Amphitheatre of Rome! Architecture is just a reason for the tourist attractions.
Then visit one of the most famous museums in Africa! Bardo museum is home to amazing collections of ancient Roman mosaics, which are like huge pictures made out of tiny colored stones.
Evening: Enjoy Dinner in La Marsa
End your day by heading to La Marsa Beach. La Marsa is a seaside suburb of Tunis. You can enjoy the sea breeze, watch the sunset, and relax.
Then have dinner at a local restaurant like El Ali, where you can try traditional Tunisian dishes like couscous or brik.
But if you want a quieter and simpler tuna, egg and cheese meal, check out Au Bon Vieux Temps. It’s perfect for Tunisian cuisines while enjoying the cool breeze from the Mediterranean Sea!
Generally, cafes like Café Des Nattes can be the perfect courtyard to visit for mint tea in this area!
Day Trip 2: A Blend of Culture and Discoveries
Morning: Explore Downtown and Central Tunis
Start your second day in Downtown Tunis, visiting landmarks like St Vincent de Paul, a striking cathedral that stands out in the heart of the city.
Walk around the center of Tunis, where you may stumble upon street art inspired by the Arab Spring, a major event in recent Tunisian history.
For lunch, choose to stop at Dar Slah, a restaurant known for serving traditional Tunisian food in a beautiful setting.
Afternoon: Palais Ennejma Ezzahra and Tunis Marine Station
In the afternoon, head to Palais Ennejma Ezzahra, a stunning palace that once belonged to a famous musician. It’s now a museum showcasing traditional Tunisian music and art.
Afterward, visit the Tunis Marine Station, a transportation hub connecting Tunis with its surrounding areas.
If you’re in town for the annual Youth Day, you might catch special events celebrating Tunisia’s younger generation. It’s celebrated on March 21 to honor the contributions and potential of young people in the nation.
For movie fans of Star Wars, consider taking a side trip to one of its filming locations named Mos Espa.
It’s a bit of a journey from Tunis, but if you’re an adventurous traveler like Gretta Schifano, it’s worth the trek for a unique experience. So don’t miss out on all the action – have your power bank, sunscreen and water bottle in this cute tote bag ready because you’ll need them!
Evening: Dar Ben Gacem and Tunisian Nightlife
For your last night in Tunis, head back to Central Tunis and experience some local nightlife. Many cafés and lounges offer live music, especially traditional Tunisian sounds.
Spend your relaxing evening at Dar Ben Gacem, a boutique guesthouse in the heart of Medina.
Its charming decor and warm hospitality will make you feel at home as you reflect on your exciting 48 hours in Tunis.
It’s a great way to end your trip!
Final Thoughts
The gulf of Tunis is a city that offers a little bit of everything – history, culture, nature, and delicious food. It’s worth taking down on a journal, don’t you think so?
Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins and mosques or enjoying a meal by the sea, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
So, pack your bags and book a ticket to Tunis Airport. Get ready to experience the beauty of Tunis in just 48 hours!
FAQ
If you have only a weekend, two to three days could be enough for a quick introduction to Tunis as well as the chic coastal city of La Marsa, and romantic Sidi Bou Saïd, both situated on the outskirts of the capital.
How long to stay in Tunisia. If you’re coming from somewhere that’s not too far away (like Italy), even just 3 days in Tunisia could give you enough to get a taste if you were to stay in Tunis and do day trips. However, we’d really recommend a minimum of about 5 days.
For a whirlwind tour of historical sites, sandy beaches, and cultural offerings, a stay of around 7 to 10 days is recommended. This allows plenty of time to visit all of the iconic attractions such as the ancient ruins of Carthage, the charming Medina of Tunis, and stunning coastal towns.