A 7-Day Tunisia Road Trip: History, Medinas & Desert Magic

What to Expect

Tunisia is a land where history, culture, and landscapes converge. From the ancient ruins of Carthage and the Roman mosaics of the Bardo Museum to the golden dunes of the Sahara and the picturesque white-and-blue town of Sidi Bou Said, this North African gem offers endless variety. A weeklong road trip lets you experience both Tunisia’s rich heritage and natural beauty, while traveling at a relaxed pace. The journey begins and ends in Tunis, which is the most reliable airport hub for international flights. Expect stunning desert sunsets, bustling medinas, ornate mosques, and a mix of French, Arab, and Berber influences at every turn.

Day 1: Tunis

• Arrive in Tunis and check into Dar El Jeld Spa & Hotel in the Medina — one of the most beautiful hotels in the city.
• Visit Carthage, founded in 814 BC, with its Roman ruins and coastal views.
• Explore the Bardo Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Roman mosaics.
• In the evening, stroll the Medina’s narrow lanes and grab a chapati from a street vendor (a Tunisian must-try).
• Pro tip: Avoid Carthage and Sidi Bou Said on Thursdays, when cruise ship crowds arrive.

Day 2: Sidi Bou Said & Medina

• Enjoy a fabulous breakfast on the terrace at Dar El Jeld.
• Spend the morning wandering the Medina to soak in its lively atmosphere.
• Lunch at Fundouk el Attarine, a lovely restaurant open only midday, with boutiques inside for browsing.
• Head to Sidi Bou Said, the “Santorini of Tunisia,” known for its whitewashed houses and blue shutters.
• Grab a coffee at Café des Délices — pricey, but the cliffside views are spectacular.
• Dinner at Dar El Jeld Restaurant, a stunning venue with excellent food.

Day 3: Drive to Kairouan

• After breakfast, drive ~3 hrs south to Kairouan (option to stop at Hammamet or Sousse en route).
• Visit the Great Mosque of Kairouan, one of the most important Islamic monuments in North Africa.
• Explore the Medina: highlights include the Mosque of the Three Doors, the Mosque of the Barber, and the Aghlabid Basins.
• Stay at Hotel La Kasbah Kairouan, just steps from the Medina and Great Mosque.
• Visit the mosque again early next morning for a peaceful, crowd-free experience before heading to Tozeur.

Day 4: Tozeur Arrival

• After breakfast, drive 4–5 hrs to Tozeur.
• Check into Anantara Sahara, a luxurious base with desert views.
• Explore Tozeur’s Medina, famous for its unique brick architecture.
• Relax at the hotel and enjoy the desert setting.
• In the evening, arrange with the hotel to watch the sunset in the desert — if the weather cooperates.

Day 5: Tozeur Excursion

• Take a full-day trip with your driver to the surrounding highlights:
  • Chebika Oasis – a lush desert oasis with palm trees and waterfalls.
  • Mides – a dramatic mountain village with canyon views.
  • Ong Jmal – a striking desert rock formation near the Star Wars filming site.
• Return to Tozeur and dine at the hotel’s Tunisian restaurant (skip the Thai option, which is underwhelming).

Day 6: Douz

• Drive ~2 hrs to Douz via Chott El Djerid, the largest salt lake in Tunisia; stop for photos along the surreal landscape.
• Pass through date palm farms on the way to Douz.
• Check into The Residence, the perfect base for a Sahara excursion.
• If weather disrupts desert plans (sandstorms are possible), relax at the hotel spa and treat yourself to a traditional hammam.

Day 7: Return to Tunis

• After breakfast, drive ~6 hrs back to Tunis.
• Stop at the Amphitheater of El Jem, one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in the world.
• Return to Tunis for an overnight stay before flying out the next day.