After savoring all the things to do in Sousse, from its bustling medina to the sun-drenched beaches, day trips from Sousse offer a gateway to further explore Tunisia’s rich mosaic of culture, history, and natural beauty. These excursions unveil the ancient ruins, scenic landscapes, and traditional towns that lie just beyond the city’s borders, providing a deeper dive into the Tunisian experience.
Venturing beyond Sousse, you’ll find a diverse array of things to do in Tunisia, including exploring the vast Sahara desert, visiting the amphitheater of El Jem, or wandering the cobblestone streets of Tunis. Each journey offers a unique perspective on Tunisia’s multifaceted heritage and the warm hospitality of its people.
Selecting where to stay in Sousse is crucial for those looking to enjoy both the city’s vibrant atmosphere and the tranquil retreats available through day trips. A well-chosen accommodation offers not just comfort but also strategic access to Sousse’s attractions and nearby adventures, making it a perfect base for your Tunisian exploration.
Discover Best Day Trips from Sousse, Tunisia
1. Kairouan, Tunisia
Kairouan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an important destination in Islamic history, famous for its Great Mosque and the ancient Medina. The city’s rich heritage and traditional crafts, like carpet weaving, offer a deep cultural experience.
Distance: Approximately 60 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Great Mosque of Kairouan, ancient Medina, Carpet Souk
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Great Mosque of Kairouan: $3
- Aghlabid Basins: $2
- Medina: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Sidi Sahbi Mausoleum, Aghlabid Basins
Travel Tip: Visit the Carpet Souk to see the beautiful local craftsmanship, and don’t forget to try the Makroudh, a traditional Tunisian pastry.
2. El Jem, Tunisia
El Jem is home to one of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, often compared to the Colosseum in Rome. This monumental structure offers an impressive glimpse into ancient Roman architecture and history.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 40-50 minutes by car or train
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Train
Main Attractions: Roman Amphitheater, Archaeological Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Roman Amphitheater: $5
- Archaeological Museum: $2
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Upper tiers of the amphitheater, town view from the top
Travel Tip: Climb to the upper tiers of the amphitheater for a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding countryside.
3. Hammamet, Tunisia
Hammamet is a popular coastal town known for its golden beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. The town also has a charming old quarter with a 15th-century fortress overlooking the sea.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Golden beaches, old quarter, 15th-century fortress
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Hammamet Medina: Free
- Hammamet Fortress: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Hammamet Beach, Medina of Hammamet
Travel Tip: Visit the old quarter for some shopping and to explore the traditional Tunisian architecture.
4. Monastir, Tunisia
Monastir, known for its fishing port and beautiful beaches, also boasts an impressive Ribat, one of the oldest and most important Islamic monuments in North Africa. The Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, the founder of modern Tunisia, is another key attraction.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 20-30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ribat of Monastir, Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ribat of Monastir: $3
- Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Monastir Marina, views from the Ribat
Travel Tip: Walk along the marina for stunning views of the sea and to enjoy local seafood restaurants.
5. Mahdia, Tunisia
Mahdia is a tranquil coastal town with a rich history, known for its stunning beaches, old fortress, and the picturesque Mahdia Medina. The Skifa El Kahla, a monumental city gate, is a notable landmark.
Distance: Approximately 60 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Mahdia Medina, Skifa El Kahla, beautiful beaches
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Skifa El Kahla: $2
- Mahdia Medina: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mahdia Beach, Skifa El Kahla Gate
Travel Tip: Explore the Medina on foot to experience the local culture and visit the traditional markets for unique souvenirs.
6. Tunis and Carthage, Tunisia
The capital city, Tunis, offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with the ancient Medina and the modern city. Nearby Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is rich in ancient ruins and history, including the famous Carthage National Museum.
Distance: Approximately 140 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Medina of Tunis, ruins of Carthage, Carthage National Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Carthage Ruins: $5
- Carthage National Museum: $3
- Medina of Tunis: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Carthage Byrsa Hill, Medina of Tunis
Travel Tip: Spend time in the Medina of Tunis for authentic local crafts, and don’t miss the ruins of the ancient city of Carthage.
7. Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque town with striking blue and white architecture, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. This artistic haven is perfect for leisurely strolls, café visits, and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 140 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Blue and white architecture, Mediterranean views
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Café des Délices: Free with purchase
- Dar el Annabi Museum: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Views from Café des Délices, streets of Sidi Bou Said
Travel Tip: Visit Café des Délices for a coffee or tea with an exceptional view of the sea.
8. The Cap Bon Peninsula, Tunisia
The Cap Bon Peninsula offers diverse experiences, from the hot springs of Hammamet to the Punic ruins of Kerkouane. It’s a region known for its fertile lands, producing excellent wines and citrus fruits.
Distance: Approximately 120-150 km
Travel Time: About 1 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Hot springs, Punic ruins of Kerkouane, fertile lands
Best Time to Visit: Spring
Entrance Fees:
- Punic Ruins of Kerkouane: $4
- Korbous Hot Springs: $3
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Orange groves in spring, Kerkouane ruins
Travel Tip: Try the local wines and visit during the spring to see the orange blossoms in full bloom.
Plan Your Perfect Day Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
FAQ About Best Day Trips from Sousse, Tunisia
What are the best day trips from Sousse?
Top day trips from Sousse include exploring the ancient ruins of Carthage, the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said, the Roman amphitheater in El Jem, and the holy city of Kairouan.
Is a visit to the El Jem Amphitheater worth it?
Definitely! The El Jem Amphitheater is one of the most impressive Roman ruins in Africa, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome. Its well-preserved state allows for an immersive historical experience.
Can I explore the Medina of Tunis from Sousse?
Yes, a day trip to the Medina of Tunis is highly recommended. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its historical marketplaces, narrow streets, and rich cultural heritage, providing a fascinating day out.
Are guided tours available to Carthage?
Yes, there are numerous guided tours to Carthage from Sousse. These tours often include visits to the ancient ruins, the Carthage Museum, and sometimes the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said.
What can I see in Kairouan?
Kairouan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its Islamic architecture, including the Great Mosque of Kairouan, the Mosque of the Three Doors, and the city’s medina. It’s a must-visit for those interested in history and religion.
Is there a desert tour from Sousse?
Yes, desert tours from Sousse are available, offering an adventure into the Sahara. These tours can include camel rides, overnight stays in desert camps, and visits to oasis towns.
Can I visit a traditional Tunisian market from Sousse?
Certainly! A trip to a traditional Tunisian market, or souk, offers an authentic experience of local life. The markets in Kairouan or the Medina of Tunis are great options, where you can find everything from spices to handcrafted goods.
Are there any coastal towns near Sousse worth visiting?
Near Sousse, the coastal towns of Monastir and Mahdia are worth visiting. Monastir is known for its Ribat and Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, while Mahdia boasts beautiful beaches and a picturesque medina.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/sousse-l478?activity_type=dayTrip
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
