One Week in Tunisia: Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary from Medinas to Sahara

Tunisia in one week? Absolutely! This compact North African country packs Mediterranean beaches, ancient ruins, holy cities, and Saharan dunes into a manageable area[1]. In just 7 days, you can experience Tunisia’s stunning diversity – from wandering the bustling souks of Tunis to sleeping under Saharan stars[1]. This 7-day Tunisia itinerary is optimized for year-round travel and efficient transport (no domestic flights needed), giving you a rich taste of Tunisia’s history, culture, and landscapes in one trip. Get ready for Roman ruins, UNESCO-listed medinas, desert oases, and island sunsets – all in a week’s adventure!

How to Get Around: Tunisia’s public transport is decent (trains and buses connect major cities), but to maximize a one-week trip, consider renting a car or hiring a private driver for flexibility. Louage shared taxis are a cheap, local way to hop between towns[2]. This itinerary assumes a mix of driving and the occasional train, but you can adapt it. Best time to go? Anytime – spring and fall have mild weather, summers are hot (ideal for beach lovers, though the desert will be scorching), and winter brings cooler days (great for sightseeing with fewer crowds). Now, let’s dive into your day-by-day Tunisian journey!

Days 1–2: Tunis, Carthage & Sidi Bou Said – Capital Highlights and Ancient History

Your journey begins in Tunis, Tunisia’s vibrant capital. Day 1 is all about exploring Tunis’s historic Medina, a maze of narrow alleys, souks, and cafés that earned UNESCO status for its rich heritage (tentative listing). Start at the landmark Zitouna Mosque (built in the 8th century) – non-Muslims can’t enter the prayer hall, but you can admire its courtyard and architecture from outside. Dive into the Medina souks to browse spices, carpets, and ceramics; it’s a sensory feast of colors and aromas. For a glimpse of colonial-era Tunis, stroll along Avenue Habib Bourguiba in the French-built Ville Nouvelle (New Town), often called the Champs-Élysées of Tunis for its cafes and European flair.

Don’t miss the Bardo Museum: In the afternoon, head to the Bardo National Museum, Tunisia’s largest museum, which finally reopened in late 2023 after renovations[3][4]. Housed in a 19th-century palace, the Bardo boasts one of the world’s greatest collections of Roman mosaics – you’ll see stunning floor mosaics depicting gods, gladiators, and daily life, all excavated from ancient sites across Tunisia[5]. It’s a crash course in Tunisia’s history, from Carthaginian artifacts to Islamic-era art. Plan 2–3 hours here to absorb the highlights (and enjoy the air conditioning on a hot day).

Day 2: Carthage and Sidi Bou Said. Take a short ride (20–30 minutes by taxi or TGM light rail) to Carthage, the fabled ancient city. Scattered across a leafy suburb, Carthage’s ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once formed the heart of Rome’s rival empire. A combo ticket (~12 TND) grants access to all the major sites[6]. Explore the grand Antonine Baths perched by the sea – these were one of the largest bath complexes in the Roman world. Wander the hilltop Carthage Theater (which still hosts summer concerts) and check out the punic ports and Byrsa Hill museum for a sense of Carthage’s 3,000-year history. The sites are a bit spread out in a residential area, but you can walk between a few or hire a taxi by the hour. Even if some ruins are sparse, standing amid Carthage’s remnants with the Gulf of Tunis in view is a must-do for history buffs[6].

After soaking up history, shift gears to the blue-and-white village of Sidi Bou Said, right next to Carthage. This clifftop artists’ village is famous for its cobalt-blue doors, whitewashed walls, and bougainvillea – a scene straight off a postcard. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon here: sip mint tea with pine nuts at the iconic Café des Délices or Café des Nattes (where time seems to stand still), browse galleries and handicraft boutiques, and take in panoramic views of the Mediterranean from the clifftop terraces. Sidi Bou Said’s charm often earns it comparisons to Santorini (but far less crowded)[7]. If you’re craving relaxation, remember that Tunis has beaches too – head down to La Marsa or Gammarth (just north of Sidi Bou) for golden sand and a late-day dip in the sea[8]. It’s a perfect way to unwind after two days of urban exploring.

(For more details on the capital's attractions, see our Tunis City Guide for in-depth tips.)

Days 3–4: Sousse & Kairouan – Coastal Charms and Sacred Heritage

Say goodbye to Tunis and travel south (~2 hours by car or train) to Sousse, the “Pearl of the Sahel.” Day 3 will be split between Sousse’s relaxing coast and its historical core. Sousse offers resort pleasures and cultural treasures in equal measure. Start at the Medina of Sousse, a walled old town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its preserved medieval architecture[9][10]. Stroll through its labyrinthine lanes to find the Great Mosque of Sousse and the imposing Ribat (a 9th-century fort-monastery) which you can climb for views over the Medina’s sand-colored rooftops and the sea. The Sousse Medina’s robust stone walls and watchtowers remind you this was once an important Aghlabid port fortified against pirates[9]. History enthusiasts might also visit the Sousse Archaeological Museum, tucked inside a former Kasbah, which houses beautiful Roman mosaics (like a famous Medusa head) second only to the Bardo’s collection.

In the afternoon, enjoy Sousse’s modern side: the city is also a beach destination. The Boujaffar Beach offers a long stretch of sand lined with palm trees and hotels – perfect for a swim or sunbathing. Cafés along the Corniche serve refreshing citronnade (lemonade) and seafood. By evening, you could take a sunset walk by the marina in Port El Kantaoui, a purpose-built resort just north of Sousse with a picturesque harbor and restaurants, if a more upscale seaside vibe appeals.

Day 4: Kairouan day trip (and El Jem). Use Sousse as a base to delve into Tunisia’s heartland. In the morning, head inland about 50 km (1 hour) to Kairouan, the fourth holiest city in Islam. Founded in 670 AD, Kairouan is the spiritual capital of Tunisia and a UNESCO site known for its magnificent mosques[11][12]. The highlight is the Great Mosque of Kairouan (Okba) – its vast courtyard and square minaret exude a profound serenity. Non-Muslim visitors can enter the courtyard and see the forest of ancient columns in the prayer hall from the door (dress modestly). This 9th-century architectural masterpiece set the template for North African mosques[12]. Also seek out the Barber’s Mosque (Zawiya of Sidi Sahab), a beautiful complex with intricate tile work (it honors a companion of the Prophet). Wander Kairouan’s Medina to shop for the city’s famous handmade carpets and leatherwork, and don’t leave without tasting a makroudh, the local date-filled semolina pastry. Note: Many sites (including the Great Mosque) close by 2pm, so arrive early. Travel tip: One traveler who tried to combine El Jem and Kairouan in one day found the Great Mosque already closed by the time he arrived in mid-afternoon[13]. It’s best to dedicate sufficient time to Kairouan’s sights in the first half of the day.

In the afternoon, if you have the energy (and an extra day to spare, ideally), drive or take a louage to El Jem (about 1 hour from Sousse). El Jem’s Roman Amphitheatre is an absolute show-stopper – a colossal 3rd-century amphitheater rising from an otherwise unassuming town. Often compared to the Colosseum in Rome, this UNESCO-listed arena could hold an estimated 35,000 spectators and is the largest, best-preserved Roman amphitheater in Africa[14]. Its massive elliptical walls are remarkably intact, and unlike in Rome, here you can actually walk on the amphitheater floor and even explore the underground passages where gladiators once roamed[15]. The chance to stand in the center of this ancient arena – imagining the roar of the crowds – is unforgettable[15]. There’s also a small El Jem museum with mosaics and a restored villa mosaic display, worth a quick look to complete the picture of Roman life. If pressed for time, prioritize the amphitheater itself, which is jaw-dropping at any hour (and often nearly empty of tourists). By evening, return to Sousse for the night.

(Check our Essential Tunisia Travel Tips for more practical advice to enrich your visit.)

Days 5–6: Tozeur & The Sahara – Oasis Towns and Desert Adventures

Now the itinerary heads to Tunisia’s southwest for a taste of the Sahara Desert. On Day 5, make your way to Tozeur, an oasis city on the edge of the desert. (It’s a long journey: about 5–6 hours drive from Sousse. If you prefer not to drive, overnight trains/buses run from the coast to the south, or consider breaking the trip with a stop in Gafsa – the transport hub. Either way, start early!). As you approach Tozeur, you’ll cross the Chott El Jerid, a vast salt lake famous for mirages and gleaming salt flats – a surreal scene especially in midday sun.

Tozeur itself is known for its extensive date palm groves (over 200,000 palms) and distinctive desert architecture. The old quarter, Ouled Hadef, features traditional brickwork facades with geometric patterns – take a stroll through its quiet alleys to appreciate the design. Use the afternoon to explore nearby natural wonders: Tozeur is the gateway to spectacular mountain oases. A popular excursion is a 4x4 jeep tour to Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides – three scenic canyon oases in the Atlas Mountains. Chebika oasis greets you with a waterfall and palm-fringed pools tucked in rocky cliffs, while Tamerza boasts another waterfall and an abandoned old village on a hill. The views driving through these arid mountains are otherworldly. You can also visit the Ong Jemel (Camel Neck) rock formation in the desert outside Tozeur, a spot made famous as a Star Wars filming location. In fact, nearby lies the set of Mos Espa, the fictional spaceport from Star Wars: Episode I – complete with preserved streets and domed buildings of planet Tatooine! You can tour these sites amid the dunes (tour operators in Tozeur offer half-day Star Wars location trips)[16]. Even for non-fans, the combination of movie magic and sweeping desert dunes is a thrill.

On Day 6, experience the Sahara proper. A fantastic option is to visit Douz, a town often called the “Gateway to the Sahara”[17], about 120 km southeast of Tozeur (around 2 hours drive). Douz is a desert frontier town where the paved road ends and endless sand begins. Here you can take a camel trek into the dunes – don a cheche (desert scarf) and ride a camel into the golden sands for an hour or two to channel your inner Bedouin. The dunes around Douz are beautiful, especially at sunrise or sunset when the sand glows orange. For a deeper adventure, many travelers opt for an overnight camp in the Sahara, sleeping in a tent or under the stars – an unforgettable experience if you can fit it in. (Numerous tour companies arrange overnight camel or 4x4 trips from Douz.) Even a short camel ride, however, will let you savor the silence and vastness of the desert. Douz also hosts an annual Sahara Festival each winter celebrating traditional nomadic culture with camel races and music[17]. Back in town, you can visit the small Sahara Museum or browse the market for Berber handicrafts, including the famous Desert Roses (crystallized mineral formations).

If returning to Tozeur for the night, you might enjoy a last evening in the palm grove or a horse-drawn carriage ride through Tozeur’s oasis gardens. Alternatively, if you’re continuing onward, you could depart Douz and drive east toward the coast. Either way, after two days of desert discovery, you’ll have experienced Tunisia’s wild side – from palm-shaded oases to rolling sand dunes. Not many countries let you go from the coast to the Sahara in a matter of hours!

(We dive deeper into desert destinations in our Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Tunisia, including tips for visiting Star Wars sites and arranging camel treks.)

Day 7: Djerba Island – Beach Relaxation and Cultural Gems

Finish your week with some relaxation and culture on Djerba, Tunisia’s famed resort island. Djerba lies off the southern coast, connected to the mainland by a causeway (or short ferry ride). If coming from the Douz/Matmata area by car, you’ll likely cross via the Roman-built causeway from Zarzis. Otherwise, Djerba also has an airport with domestic flights from Tunis (for those doing the itinerary in reverse), but let’s assume you arrive by road on Day 7.

Djerba is the perfect finale: an island of sandy beaches, whitewashed villages, and unique heritage. Many visitors simply unwind at the beach resorts of Djerba’s east coast (around Sidi Mahrez or Seguia beaches) – and you should certainly enjoy a few hours on the Mediterranean, swimming or lounging under a palm umbrella. But Djerba also offers fascinating sights for the culturally curious. Drive to Houmt Souk, the main town, to wander its charming market streets. Here you can pick up last-minute souvenirs like colorful ceramics, embroidered textiles, or silver jewelry. The town’s fortress, Borj El Kebir, overlooks the harbor and is fun to explore for its history of pirates and Ottoman battles.

A must-see cultural treasure is the El Ghriba Synagogue in the village of Er Riadh. This is one of the oldest synagogues in the world – according to legend its origins date back over 2,500 years to the time of Solomon’s Temple[18]. The synagogue you see today was rebuilt in the 19th century, and it remains an active pilgrimage site for Jews each spring during Lag BaOmer. Inside, it’s beautifully adorned with blue tilework, lamps, and wooden benches, exuding a peaceful aura. (Modest dress is required, and women may need to cover their heads with a scarf provided at the door.) Visiting El Ghriba offers a glimpse into Djerba’s centuries-old Jewish community and a testament to Tunisia’s multicultural tapestry. Notably, in 2023 the synagogue (and Djerba’s heritage) was recognized as part of a new UNESCO World Heritage listing[19][20].

Just a few minutes from El Ghriba is another modern attraction: Djerbahood in Er Riadh village. What is Djerbahood? It’s an open-air street art gallery where over 150 artists from around the globe have painted vibrant murals on the village walls[21]. Wander the lanes to find striking graffiti art – from Arabic calligraphy motifs to whimsical portraits – turning this traditional village into a living museum of street art. The project was created in 2014, and new murals pop up, making it a paradise for photographers and art lovers. It’s a surprising twist: one moment you’re standing by an ancient synagogue, the next you’re exploring world-class street art on Djerba’s dusty lanes.

If time permits, you can also visit Guellala, a village known for its pottery workshops (they’ve been producing ceramics here for generations – you can even try your hand at the wheel) or stop by the Djerba Heritage Museum to learn about island traditions. But no matter how you spend the day, make sure to catch a gorgeous Djerba sunset by the sea – perhaps at a beach café with a glass of Tunisian mint tea. As the sun dips below the horizon, reflecting on your week, you’ll appreciate how much of Tunisia’s soul you’ve experienced in just seven days: ancient and modern, desert and sea, Africa and the Mediterranean, all in one journey.

(Find more info in our Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Tunisia on the island's best beaches and cultural spots, and how to extend your stay.)

Extending Your Trip: 10-Day Itinerary Ideas

Falling in love with Tunisia and have a few extra days? Here are two great add-ons to consider if you want to extend to 9–10 days: - Hammamet and Cap Bon Coast: Before or after Sousse, spend 1–2 days in Hammamet, Tunisia’s original resort town. It offers gorgeous sandy beaches, a quaint medina with a seaside fort, and a lively resort scene. It’s a nice place to relax mid-trip. Nearby, you can also visit Nabeul (a center for pottery) or venture to Kelibia and Haouaria on the Cap Bon peninsula for coastal hikes and ancient ruins. This addition is perfect for beach lovers. - Matmata & Tataouine (Berber South): After Djerba or Douz, delve deeper into southern Tunisia with 2 extra days exploring Matmata and Tataouine. Matmata is famous for its troglodyte houses – underground homes dug into the earth; you can even see the one used as Luke Skywalker’s childhood home in Star Wars. Tataouine and its surrounding villages feature picturesque Berber ksour (fortified granaries) like Ksar Ouled Soltane and Ksar Hadada, some of which stood in for Star Wars locations as well. The surreal landscapes and rich Berber culture in this region are worth the detour if you have time.

With these additions, a 10-day itinerary could cover even more of Tunisia’s highlights at a slightly more relaxed pace. And of course, Tunisia has plenty more to offer – from the Roman ruins of Dougga in the north to the Ksour of the Sahara in the deep south – so you can always mix and match based on your interests.

Conclusion

In one week, you’ve journeyed through Tunisia’s incredible mosaic: bustling medinas and UNESCO sites in the north, shimmering Mediterranean coastlines, the timeless allure of the Sahara Desert, and the laid-back charm of a Djerban island getaway. Few destinations let you experience so much in such a short time – Tunisia truly gives you “more bang for your buck,” as Lonely Planet touted when naming it a top value destination[1]. This 7-day itinerary offers a taste of Tunisia’s diversity, but also expect warm hospitality at every stop – from the shopkeeper who invites you for tea in the Tunis medina, to the camel guide singing under the desert stars.

Now it’s your turn: use this itinerary as a blueprint and customize it to craft your perfect Tunisian adventure. Whether you’re passionate about history, craving culinary delights (did we mention tasting brik or couscous along the way?), or seeking sun and sand, Tunisia delivers. Ready to go from the medina to the Sahara in a week? Pack your bags, Tunisia awaits. Bons voyages – or as the Tunisians say, “Marhaban bikoum!” (Welcome!).

(And once you're back, don't forget to check out our other Tunisia guides like our Essential Travel Tips and Capital City Guide for more travel inspiration and tips for your next visit!)