Tunis Sights

The beaches on the Tunis coastline are stunning. Blown in from the Sahara, the Tunis coastline is a beach-lovers' paradise. Long swathes of sands sweep down into seductive shimmering waters. Most hotels strung out along the coastline have their own private sandy havens and offer a brilliant alternative for those who would soon delve into a spot of sun-worshipping than lunge below the waves.

When it comes to days out, explore the dazzling, picturesque blue and white village of Sidi Bou Said. Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Tunis, this pretty village is perhaps the most cherished in Tunisia. Legend has it that, during the war, Saint Louis fell in love with a Berber princess and changed his name to became the patron saint of the village. Follow the cobblestone streets winding upwards past a plethora of shops. Sightseers and shoppers will feel like kids in a sweet shop! Catch a glimpse of the emerald sea with the mountain of Bou Kornine and the southern beaches of Tunis across the Bay. Stop and sip a delicious mint tea at the 'Cafe des Nattes', or continue upwards to the 'lighthouse' for a refreshing drink whilst you sit and marvel the magnificent view from the 'Sidi Chebaane' cafe - especially as the sun is setting. During the warm summer evenings, concerts of traditional Tunisian music attract visitors and locals alike.

Seize yourself a slice of the historyi in a trip to the remains of ancient Carthage in the north. Explore the remnants of this once great metropolis, where ruins of villas, bathhouses, sanctuaries and theatres offer an enthralling insight into the past. Originally founded in 814BC by the Phoenicians, the city rose to pre-eminence under Roman rule. Carthage grew to become one of the empire's largest cities, second only in size to Rome itself. It's also worth visiting Matama, which was used as a set for the blockbuster movie Star Wars.

Every city in Tunisia has a Great Mosque, but Kairouan is home to more than 50 mosques and the Great Mosque in Kairouan is the most important of all. It is the oldest Muslim place of prayer in North Africa and is commonly regarded as the fourth holiest site in Islam (after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem). Though non-Muslims are forbidden to enter the prayer hall, visitors can peer through one of the 17 heavy wooden doors to see one of the world's oldest pulpits decorated with 250 carved panels. You can also climb the 128-step staircase, made from Christian tombstones, for terrific panoramic views of the city.

Venture south of Monastir and you'll find the amphitheatre at El Jem, one of the Roman Empire's greatest legacies to Tunisia. It's the second largest colosseum in the Roman World, dominating the local town and nearby countryside.

For a day out, head south to Sousse and delve into a maze-like medina. Experience an authentic flavour of North African culture and haggle your heart out in spice-scented souks. Within the citadel is a section known as the Ribat, once the residence of devout Muslim warriors. Opposite this is another of Sousse's main attractions, the 9th-century Great Mosque. Sousse is a bustling, vibrant town with a strong Muslim tradition, so you'll find just a few bars, however there's an abundance of cafés - where you can stop and sip delicious mint tea - shops and market stalls!