Kairouan and El Djem: a heritage day trip
Kairouan and El Djem are two of Tunisia's best heritage stops. They sit inland from the coast and are easy to combine on a day trip from Sousse or Hammamet.
Kairouan
Kairouan is one of Islam's holiest cities, with a UNESCO-listed medina and the Great Mosque, one of the oldest in the region. Walk the old streets, visit the Aghlabid Basins and look for carpets and the city's famous makroud pastries.
El Djem
El Djem is home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world, built to hold tens of thousands of spectators. You can walk through the arena and underground passages, and a small museum nearby shows local mosaics.
How to combine them
From Sousse, allow a full day, either by rental car, organised tour or by louage between towns. Start early, as the sites are hot in summer, and check opening hours before you go.
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists visit the Great Mosque of Kairouan?
Visitors can usually see the courtyard and some areas, but non-Muslims are generally not allowed in the prayer hall. Dress modestly and check current visiting hours and rules.
How long do you need at El Djem?
One to two hours is enough for the amphitheatre and the museum.
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