Planning a trip to Tunisia and want to see some of the country’s most iconic landmarks? From ancient Roman amphitheatres and Punic coastal cities to sacred mosques and UNESCO‑listed medinas, Tunisia is packed with historical and cultural sites that deserve a spot on your itinerary. This guide highlights the top Tunisia landmarks you must visit, including Carthage, Dougga, El Jem, Kairouan, Tunis Medina and the Punic city of Kerkouane, with practical tips to help you plan your trip.
Tunisia landmarks
Tunisia is one of North Africa’s most underrated cultural destinations, rich in ancient Roman ruins and Islamic history. From ancient Punic cities and Roman amphitheatres to atmospheric medinas and sacred Islamic architecture, the country is ideal for visitors who love history, archaeology, and immersive cultural experiences.
Here’s a roundup of our top 10 historical landmarks in Tunisia to add to your itinerary. The list includes standout UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of the country’s most important historic cities.
The courtyard of the Great Mosque of Kairouan
1. El Jem Amphitheatre – Tunisia’s Colossal Roman Arena
📍 Location: El Jem, Mahdia Governorate, central‑east Tunisia
El Jem Amphitheatre (often spelt El Djem) is one of Tunisia’s most impressive landmarks. Located in the town of El Jem (formerly Thysdrus), it’s about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Hammamet and just over 2 hours from Tunis. This remarkable Roman structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often called the “African Colosseum.” Beautifully preserved and genuinely awe‑inspiring, it quickly became one of my favourite archaeological sites in Tunisia.
As the third‑largest Roman amphitheatre and the largest in Africa, it once held 35,000 spectators. Walking through its arches, tunnels, and vast arena gives you a vivid sense of ancient Roman life and gladiator battles. The best part? It’s far less crowded than Rome’s Colosseum and much cheaper, making the experience more relaxed, immersive, and enjoyable. Book a half-day trip to the El Jem Colosseum & Museum, including entry fees and pick-up from your hotel.
2. Punic Site of Kerkouane – Tunisia’s Best‑Preserved Punic City
📍 Location: Cap Bon Peninsula, northeast Tunisia (near Kelibia)
Kerkouane is a historical archaeological UNESCO World Heritage site in northeastern Tunisia. It is located on the Cap Bon Peninsula, about a two-hour drive from Hammamet. It is one of the only Punic cities not rebuilt by the Romans, making it a rare window into Carthaginian urban life. Explore the street layouts and houses, as well as the Unique Punic architectural features, including bathtubs and drainage systems.
Stop by the Museum of Kerkouane to learn about the site’s history and see artefacts from the Punic excavations. If you’re exploring the Cap Bon region, pair your visit with the beaches of Kelibia and lunch at Mansourah Restaurant. This waterfront spot overlooks Kelibia Fort and has a small deck where you can take a dip in the Mediterranean.
Book a full-day guided tour of the Golden Triangle from Hammamet, including visits to Cape Bon: Kélibia, Kerkouane, and Korbous with GYG.
The El Jem Amphitheatre (Colosseum) of Tunisia
3. Kairouan – The Spiritual Heart of Tunisia
📍 Location: Kairouan, central Tunisia
Kairouan, Tunisia’s holy city, ranks among the country’s most important UNESCO‑listed landmarks. Founded in the 7th century, it serves as Tunisia’s spiritual capital and draws travellers interested in Islamic history and early North African architecture. The city’s key landmarks include the Great Mosque of Kairouan and the atmospheric Medina, with its traditional workshops and textile makers, such as the carpet sellers at the House of the Governor.
Plus the Aghlabid Basins, an impressive example of early water‑management engineering. For a local lunch with great views, El Brija Restaurant is a solid choice. Located about 1.5 hours from Hammamet or 1 hour from Sousse, it is an easy day trip from the beach resorts. Here is how to spend a day in Kairouan, Tunisia.
4. Great Mosque of Kairouan, Tunisia
📍 Location: Kairouan, central Tunisia
The Great Mosque of Kairouan is one of the oldest mosques in North Africa and is hard to miss upon arrival in the city. It is considered the fourth holiest site in Islam and a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture. Some of the main highlights include a massive courtyard, the rows of columns and the prayer hall. As well as the square minaret inspired by Roman lighthouses. There is a small entry fee, and arms, shoulders and legs need to be covered. I suggest taking a scarf.
Take a full-day History & Spirituality tour from either Tunis or Hammamet to Kairouan and El Jem with GYG.
Walking through the columns at The Great Mosque of Kairouan, Tunisia
5. Carthage Roman Site – Explore the Legacy of an Ancient Empire
📍 Location: Carthage, northern Tunis
Just outside Tunis, Carthage is one of Tunisia’s most important landmarks and a key archaeological site in the Mediterranean. Once the capital of the powerful Carthaginian Empire, it later became a major Roman city after the Punic Wars, leaving behind an extraordinary mix of Punic and Roman heritage.
Carthage spans multiple sites, and one of the best places to start is Byrsa Hill, which sits right beside the striking Saint Louis Cathedral. From here, you’ll get panoramic views across the capital, making it one of the most scenic historic spots in Tunis. Book a full-day guided tour of Tunis, Carthage & Bardo Museum, known as A Journey Through History. It can get very hot around the Roman sites, and there is no shelter, so take a reusable water bottle, a hat and sunscreen.
Top Tunisia Landmarks to See on Byrsa Hill
- Punic Quarter of Byrsa – An atmospheric area showcasing Punic houses, streets, and foundations that reveal what life looked like before Roman rule.
- Carthage Museum – Home to mosaics, statues, and artefacts excavated across Carthage, offering essential context for understanding the city’s layered history.
- Antonine Baths – One of the largest Roman bath complexes outside Italy, and one of the most impressive landmarks in Tunisia within the Carthage archaeological zone.
6. Carthage Roman Theatre, Tunisia
📍 Location: Carthage, northern Tunis
Another highlight within the Carthage archaeological complex is the Roman Theatre, also known as the Ancient Theatre of Carthage. Located just a 15–20‑minute walk from Byrsa Hill, it’s an easy addition to any Carthage itinerary. Originally built in the early 2nd century AD, the theatre suffered extensive damage during the 5th‑century invasions before undergoing major restoration in the late 19th and 20th centuries.
Today, it stands as a striking example of how Tunisia has preserved and revived its ancient heritage. The Roman Theatre and its neighbouring Odeon remain active cultural venues, hosting operas, plays, concerts, and summer festivals. It’s one of the few archaeological sites in Tunisia where you can experience history and live performance in the same space. Take a combined tour that includes the Carthage Roman Theatre, Villas and Baths Guided Tour.
Carthage Ruins, Tunisia Historical Landmark
7. Dougga Roman Site – Tunisia’s Ancient City
📍 Location: Teboursouk region, northwest Tunisia
Often described as the best‑preserved Roman town in Africa, Dougga is a breathtaking hilltop site surrounded by olive groves and rolling countryside. Located in the Teboursouk region of northwest Tunisia, it offers a remote location with fewer crowds and a more atmospheric experience. If you love Roman history, you might also enjoy my guide to Roman sites in Tunisia.
Things not to miss include the Capitol and the temple dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. The Theatre remains remarkably intact, with views across the valley. The Mausoleum of Ateban is a unique example of Numidian architecture. Book a private tour of Dougga and Bulla Regia that includes pick up. Many travellers come from the nearby resorts of Tabarka, a coastal town nestled between the sea and the mountains. Here is my full guide to Tabarka and how to get there.
8. Tunis Medina – A Labyrinth of Culture, Crafts & History
📍 Location: Tunis city centre
The Medina of Tunis is a UNESCO‑listed old town filled with souks, palaces, mosques, and artisan workshops. It’s one of the most atmospheric and colourful places I’ve seen in Tunisia. It is a must for any cultural traveller who likes to wander, get lost, and soak up the atmosphere. See the main gate of Tunis Medina, Bab el Bhar (Gate of the Sea), also known as the Porte de France, before heading in.
Take a look at Souk El Attarine, home to perfume, oil, and traditional cosmetics makers. Before passing by Tunis’s oldest Zitouna Mosque. Satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional pâtisseries, Makroudh, and Bambalouni. Then stop off at the historic Dar Hussein & Dar Ben Abdallah palaces if you have time. If you’re planning time in the capital, don’t miss my guide to What to do in Tunis in 3 Days.
Wandering around the Medina of Tunis, Tunisia
9. Medina Sousse, Tunisia
The Medina of Sousse is another significant UNESCO World Heritage Site, noted for its well‑preserved Islamic architecture and coastal fortifications. It was once a major commercial and military port during the Aghlabid period (800–909). Today, Sousse is Tunisia’s third‑largest city and a popular Mediterranean holiday destination.
Explore the Medina, one of the best preserved in the country, and visit key landmarks such as the Ribat of Sousse and the Great Mosque. The Archaeological Museum of Sousse, located inside the Kasbah, is another highlight, showcasing mosaics and artefacts from the region. After sightseeing, stop at a local café to try traditional Tunisian coffee. Book a 2-Hour Heritage Tour to Hergla and Sousse Medina
10. Kasbah Hammamet Fortress & Medina
📍 Location: Hammamet Old Town
The Kasbah Hammamet Fortress is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Tunisia. It is set on the edge of the medina with beautiful views over the Gulf of Hammamet. Built in the 13th century, this seaside fortress once protected the town from pirate attacks. Today, it remains an essential stop for anyone exploring Hammamet’s historic core. Climb the ramparts for panoramic coastal views, then visit the small museum inside the fortress for a quick insight into Hammamet’s past.
Wander the medina’s narrow lanes, still enclosed by the original 15th‑century walls, where you can browse shops selling colourful ceramics, textiles, leather goods, and other local crafts. Don’t miss the Great Mosque of Hammamet, one of the area’s most important religious landmarks. With its mix of medieval architecture, sea views, and atmospheric old‑town setting, the Kasbah Hammamet Fortress and Medina is a standout addition to any list of Tunisia landmarks you must visit. Afterwards, take a catamaran cruise to see the Kasbah Hammamet Fortress from a different angle. Here is my full guide on things to do in Hammamet.
Archaeological site of Thugga Dougga, Tunisia – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Additional Tunisia Landmarks
Pupput (Souk el-Abiod)
The archaeological site of Pupput (Souk el-Abiod) features mosaic floors, thermal baths, ancient walls, and a villa. Located just south of Hammamet near the ALOHA Beach CLUB.
Saint Vincent de Paul Cathedral
Saint Vincent de Paul Cathedral is located in the centre of Tunis. It opened in 1897 with a mosaic on the decorative yellow-and-white facade & 2 bell towers. It is a good combination with a visit to the Tunis Medina.
The Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba
The Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba is a monumental grave located in Monastir, Tunisia. Built in honour of the first president and father of Tunisian independence.
Djerba Island
Djerba Island is located just off the mainland of Tunisia. The whole Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its settlements, including villages, mosques, and olive groves.
Other articles about Cities with Historical Landmarks
Here are some other articles on coastal cities with historical landmarks and archaeological sites you can combine with a holiday.
- 12 Top Things to do in Ayia Napa, Cyprus
- 16 Best Things to do in Oludeniz, Dalaman, Turkey
- Landmarks and Activities you can do in Malta.
Have you been to Tunisia before and visited any of the historical landmarks? Please feel free to leave your comments or experiences below.
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Disclaimer: I was a guest of Tunisia Tourism during my stay in the country. However, all views are based on my own experience.
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Useful booking links for seeing the Tunisia Landmarks
Book all your guided day tours, including historical landmarks, directly with GYG.
Compare flights on Trip.com from the UK to Tunisia across airlines and prices.
Search for hotels and accommodations in Tunisia and compare prices with Booking.com.
Get a reasonable price on car hire to explore Tunisian landmarks with Trip.com.
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