Monastir Day Trips: 5 Amazing Adventures from Tunisia

Monastir, you know, it’s a pretty cool spot on Tunisia’s coast. It’s got that chilled-out vibe mixed with some interesting history, you know? That said, it also serves as a fantastic base to see more of what Tunisia has to offer, like awesome day trips. I mean, instead of just hanging around the same old spot, you could venture out to ancient ruins, medinas that almost feel lost in time, and coastal escapes, right? You see, these adventures offer a real peek into the country’s heart and soul.

1. Sousse: The Pearl of the Sahel

So, Sousse is a great place, that is pretty close, just a short ride up the coast from Monastir, basically. It’s very often called the “Pearl of the Sahel,” and, like, that nickname pretty much fits. What’s more, it’s brimming with history, with landmarks stretching way back, that is right, to the Phoenicians. That is to say, a big highlight would have to be the Medina of Sousse, almost recognized by UNESCO. Roaming through those twisted alleys is almost like walking through time, don’t you agree? That is to say, the aroma of spices fills the air, the chatter of merchants creates this really vivid scene, and the architecture, very much so, tells tales of ages passed.

Also, you know, definitely check out the Ribat, that is this old fortress overlooking the city and the coast. The views, I’m telling you, are simply spectacular. And don’t you go missing the Great Mosque, that is, an incredible building demonstrating early Islamic architecture, alright? After absorbing some culture, possibly hit up Boujaafar Beach. It’s this, very soft, sandy haven just perfect for soaking up that North African sun or going for a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean. Sousse blends culture and leisure super well, so you’ve got, more or less, everything for a memorable day trip.
Read our full review: Sousse Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Explore Sousse)

2. El Jem: Stepping Back into Roman Times

You see, El Jem, which is maybe a little farther inland, holds one very striking monument: the El Jem Amphitheater. You know, this, pretty well, preserved Roman amphitheater makes you feel like you’ve been transported straight into the heart of the Roman Empire. I mean, it could be the biggest amphitheater in North Africa, and it’s thought that about 35,000 spectators used to sit in there, watching gladiatorial battles and all those public shows. Almost walk through the arena, see the stands, and, that is correct, picture the scene. Is that correct that this place really echoes with centuries of history?

The city itself has that, what do you call it, tranquil vibe. That is, away from the amphitheater, there aren’t crowds everywhere, you know? Stop by the El Jem Museum, alright? It is not far from the amphitheater; there are some incredible mosaics and artifacts dug up right there. They’ll provide a bit more background on the area’s Roman past, anyway. El Jem is awesome because it is that you get that, truly visceral sense of history that’s both awe-inspiring, you know, and educative.

Read our full review: El Jem Amphitheater Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Visit El Jem)

3. Kairouan: The Spiritual Heart of Tunisia

So, if you’re into a spiritual, historical getaway, then, you know, Kairouan really shouldn’t be missed. This place, you know, it’s not too far from Monastir. Besides, Kairouan is more or less among the most important Islamic cities globally, and that’s basically saying something. As a matter of fact, its Great Mosque, wow, you could admire such grand Islamic architecture; it displays outstanding examples. Its complex designs and peaceful ambiance make the mosque not just a spot for prayer but also a place to think about history and art.

Just so you know, the Medina in Kairouan can give Sousse a run for its money. It’s crammed with twisting lanes, and workshops where you could very well watch artisans working on rugs, pottery, and more, maybe. It is correct that Kairouan almost pulses with its profound connection to its Islamic heritage and provides a really enriched cultural experience. Make your way to the Aghlabid Basins. It’s the old water reservoirs showcasing old engineering, and, for sure, providing awesome insights into how life used to be back then, I can’t say for sure, but I suppose that Kairouan would enrich you with historic and cultural knowledge, anyway.

Read our full review: Great Mosque of Kairouan Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Experience Kairouan)

4. Port El Kantaoui: A Modern Mediterranean Escape

OK, you know, if you want something a bit different, a modern take, more or less, then check out Port El Kantaoui, it is fairly near Sousse. In a way, it’s very different to the other places. I mean, it is actually a resort town built with a style that imitates classic Tunisian architecture, you know, but it’s definitely not historic, instead built to be this, just perfect tourist place. A central marina has yachts and boats from many places, so that is why waterfront restaurants and shops just dot the place, alright? What’s more, take an easy stroll by the port, enjoy a yummy seafood lunch, or, just as easily, shop for keepsakes, alright?

It is more relaxing, maybe, you might prefer lying on the sandy beaches. So, it could be a bit busier, though, but Port El Kantaoui has things to offer everybody. For that reason, it isn’t simply the destination. In particular, you might consider activities there such as golfing, water sports, or, that is the fact, just unwind at one of its luxurious spas. I’d say, it’s got that totally different vibe coming from places filled with old vibes, and maybe makes a nice little getaway, I’d assume. In a way, it could suit those liking the more touristy-like places, right?

Read our full review: Port El Kantaoui Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Relax in Port El Kantaoui)

5. Monastir Itself: Don’t Underestimate Your Home Base!

You might feel like getting too carried away, and exploring places around. That is right, it could be almost easy to not appreciate Monastir itself. Basically, you can spend an entire day seeing what this relaxing coastal spot holds, as a matter of fact. First, definitely have a stroll down to the Bourguiba Mausoleum, where Tunisia’s first president, Habib Bourguiba, who was born in Monastir, I might add, got laid to rest. The building design exhibits both modern, together with, traditional Islamic elements, actually, a rather interesting place!

Almost right next door would be the Monastir Ribat. What’s more, it could be one of North Africa’s oldest and, really, best preserved fortresses. Now picture the courtyard scenes from, and I mean this actually, the movie ‘Life of Brian’! Climb onto the tower thingy for views, so very beautiful over the ocean and Monastir, and it shows you something real about local history. After the dose of history and architectural sightseeing, go stretch out down at Skanes Beach. What’s more, it is perfect, because it’s close and the sands there invite just lying out for a nap in the sunshine and swim in cool waters of this country. What’s not to like?

Read our full review: Monastir Ribat Full Review and Details

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Discover Monastir)