TransportWe had a lovely day visiting the Bardo Museum, Cathage and Sidi Bou Said - unfortunately there was more walking than we had anticipated so my husband found it difficult mobility wise. However the bus driver was amazing and allowed my husband to stay on the bus in the afternoon and we found the cafe in the Bardo Museum for him to sit in whilst I looked at the exhibition
Carthage was the capital of ancient Rome's greatest rival and the site of a titanic clash of civilisations. Today, its ruins bear testament to Rome's ultimate victory, as you'll discover during this tour, which also takes in Sidi Bou Said and a stop by the Bardo Museum. Mariam, one of our expert local guides, says "a good place to get your bearings in ancient Carthage is Byrsa Hill. It's a bit of a climb but the view over the site, the city and the bay are absolutely worth it."
You'll start the morning with a visit to Bardo Museum, home to a magnificent collection of mosaics recovered from Roman villas in the region. Then, it's off to Carthage. Under renowned military leaders such as Hannibal, this site was one of the greatest powers of the classical world. Exploring with a guide gives you the historical background and the local perspective on the story of Carthage. You'll see ruins such as the Baths of Antoninus, which were the largest thermal baths in the Roman Empire. It's a great spot to enjoy the thermal waters – right by the sea. Have a look around the amphitheatre and the Tophet sacrificial site before taking a break for lunch.
After a traditional Tunisian local lunch, you'll visit Sidi Bou Said, a clifftop village of cobbled alleys fringed by whitewashed houses with sky-blue doors and window shutters. The blue and white colour scheme has echoes of the Greek islands, and contrasts nicely with the sea beyond. You'll discover the town's history and find out why so many artists have called it home over the years.
