Carthage: A City of Phoenicians and Romans In the lands where the golden sands kiss the turquoise sea, lies a city steeped in the whispers of ancient tales, where the echoes of mighty civilizations still resonate through time. Welcome to Carthage, Tunisia, where the sun dances upon the ruins of a once-great empire, and the winds carry the legends of Phoenician explorers who dared to navigate the vast expanse of the Mediterranean. Carthage, a metropolis of wonder, born from the sweat and toil of the Phoenicians, who sailed across the vast expanse of the Mediterranean, guided by the whispers of the gods. In this fabled city, the scent of frankincense and myrrh wafted through the bustling streets, mingling with the cries of merchants and the clang of hammers on hot metal. The city's founders, a band of seafarers with eyes that shone like polished obsidian, had brought with them their gods, their culture, and their ingenuity. As the ages passed, Carthage grew in strength and prosperity, its people trading with kings and queens, building mighty temples, and crafting masterpieces that would be revered for centuries to come. And yet, despite its grandeur, Carthage was not immune to the capricious whims of fate. For in its prime, it was beset by wars and rivalries, its people forced to confront the very real possibility of destruction. Tunisia one of the five Arab Maghreb countries and the northernmost country in Africa and the smallest of the group of countries located along the Atlas Mountains. Tunisians are very friendly and hospitable, giving a good life lesson for Western culture. If you are on your first trip to Tunisia, you will definitely be fascinated: the crystal clear bright blue of the Mediterranean, of the doors and windows of the houses, beaches with fine sands, Sahara tempting with safaris, palm trees or camels. Carthage, located in the suburbs of the capital Tunis, the ancient Phoenician and then Roman city, still reveals part of its disturbing history - a story of success and decay, destruction and reconstruction. The city of Carthage is located in the north-eastern Tunisia, about 15 km from Tunis on a hill rising to nearly 57 m and its coastline stretches about 3 km. Let us embark on a journey through the labyrinthine streets of history, where every stone, every column, every whispering breeze tells a story of conquest, tragedy, and resilience. So, wanderer, cast off your shoes and let the warm embrace of Carthage's sands guide you through the enchanted chapters and uncover the secrets that lie hidden within these ancient stones. Nowadays Carthage is a residential district of Tunis, with many vestiges of the Punic and Roman periods. These sites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The National Museum of Carthage has an impressive collection of Punic vessels, statuettes or inscriptions and houses numerous archaeological treasures found during excavations. The Roman Theater, restored for the most part, impresses by inheriting such a distant past. The famous Hannibal, the greatest military commander in history, comes from northern Africa, from a Carthaginian family. The ideal vacation is to be able to discover unforgettable destinations and make the most of your stay on a small budget. Accommodation is often a major important expense when going on vacation and finding cheap accommodation during your vacation is possible and we found out to help you find affordable accommodation. Accommodations Looking for flexible and affordable accommodation in Carthage? Self-catering options offer the perfect blend of independence and comfort, allowing you to experience this historic city at your own pace. Whether you're staying in a cozy apartment or a charming villa, self-catering gives you the freedom to cook your own meals, explore local markets, and truly live like a local. It’s an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers or families looking for a home away from home while discovering the rich history and stunning beauty of Carthage. Experience luxury and comfort at ADAM Hotel Suites, offering 41 spacious accommodations with elegant decor, perfect for a relaxing stay. Conveniently located near the city’s largest mall, you'll have plenty of cafes and restaurants right at your doorstep. Select rooms come fully equipped with a kitchen, featuring modern amenities like a microwave, dishwasher, oven, fridge, coffee machine, and more, along with a flat-screen TV, private terrace, and ensuite bathroom. Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi in every room, and indulge in the hotel’s recreational facilities, including an indoor pool, spa tub, and sauna. Start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast, available daily from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM (additional fee). Whether you're here for business or leisure, ADAM Hotel Suites promises a stay filled with luxury and convenience! Yamama Apartments 3 provides cozy, modern accommodations with private balconies, perfect for a relaxing stay. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, oven, and washing machine, plus a comfortable seating area complete with a flat-screen TV. Enjoy the comfort of spacious apartment living, designed to make you feel right at home. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all rooms, so you can stay connected with ease. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, Yamama Apartments 3 offers everything you need for a convenient and comfortable stay. Dar Jaafar is a stunning home that blends authentic Arabesque and Berber styles, creating a truly unique atmosphere! Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood, this charming apartment is just steps away from local shops, dining spots, and the beach, offering both convenience and tranquility. Inside, you'll find a spacious courtyard, a cozy living room, a modern bathroom, two inviting bedrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen perfect for whipping up your favorite meals. The outdoor space shines with a large private terrace, ideal for relaxing, complete with an additional shower for your convenience. Experience the charm of Dar Jaafar for an unforgettable stay! Where to do your groceries Have you ever gone grocery shopping in an Arabic country? Grocery shopping in Arabic countries can be a unique blend of challenges and enjoyment, offering a glimpse into local culture and lifestyle. It can be a struggle sometimes, as well as a very fun experience. In many Arabic countries, including Tunisia, you'll find small neighborhood shops called "Hanout." These quaint stores are often family-owned and stocked with a variety of everyday essentials, including spices, snacks, and beverages. Shopping at a Hanout can be a delightful experience as you interact with friendly shopkeepers, who often know their regular customers by name. The charm of these shops lies in their intimate setting and the personalized service they provide. In the bigger cities of Tunisia, you can find large supermarkets, such as "Magasin General", "Monoprix" or "Carrefour". Shopping in traditional markets, known as Medina or Souq, is a vibrant and lively experience. These markets are filled with colorful stalls selling fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Here, you can practice your bargaining skills, as negotiating prices with salesmen is common and part of the shopping experience. Bargaining: When shopping in a Medina or Souq, remember that haggling is expected. Start by offering a price lower than what you’re willing to pay and negotiate up from there. This not only makes shopping more affordable but also adds a fun interactive element to your experience. The sights, sounds, and smells of the market create an atmosphere that immerses you in local culture. From the aroma of spices to the chatter of vendors and shoppers, every visit is an adventure. Shopping in Carthage, Tunisia, offers a mix of traditional markets and modern supermarkets, providing a unique experience for locals and tourists alike. Here’s a detailed look at supermarket shopping in Carthage: Ben Yaghlane Shops in Lac 2 is a popular chain of stores that provides a diverse and comprehensive selection of both fresh and canned food products. Known for its commitment to quality, this market offers a delightful array of local and imported items, ensuring great value for money. The store features a wide variety of fresh produce, including seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from local farmers. You can expect to find high-quality items such as: Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: A colorful selection of organic and conventionally grown produce, perfect for creating wholesome meals. A range of fresh herbs and an extensive collection of spices that are essential for authentic Tunisian cooking. Ben Yaghlane Shops also offers a vast selection of canned goods, making it easy to stock your pantry with staples. Despite the high quality of products offered, Ben Yaghlane Shops is committed to keeping prices reasonable. This makes it an excellent choice for both everyday grocery shopping and special occasions. Épicerie Aladin is a charming small grocery shop that offers a delightful combination of everyday essentials and culinary treats. Nestled in a bustling neighborhood, this shop is not just a grocery store; it’s a community hub where locals come to shop, gather, and enjoy delicious food. Inside Épicerie Aladin, you'll discover a well-curated selection of grocery items, including seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from local markets, essential staples like rice and pasta, and a variety of imported products, allowing customers to explore international flavors alongside local offerings. One of the highlights of Épicerie Aladin is its in-house bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, offering a variety of traditional breads like baguettes and flatbreads, as well as an assortment of pastries, including croissants, danishes, and local Tunisian sweets, perfect for snacks or coffee breaks. Épicerie Aladin features a reasonably priced collection of street food, including traditional Tunisian delicacies like brik (a thin pastry filled with egg and tuna), kebabs, and meat sandwiches for a quick meal, along with healthier options such as salads and vegetarian wraps to cater to various dietary preferences. Ben Yaghlane La Marsa offers an extensive selection of pastry products, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. Additionally, you'll discover a diverse assortment of seeds, nuts, and oilseeds, ideal for enhancing the flavors of your dishes. The shop also features meticulously prepared cheese and cold meat platters, designed to impress and delight your guests at any gathering. Supérette Lac 2 is a well-regarded supermarket located in the vibrant Lac 2 area of Tunis, known for its diverse offerings and customer-friendly environment. This modern supermarket caters to the everyday needs of both locals and visitors, providing a wide range of products in a convenient and accessible setting. Supérette Lac 2 is a one-stop shop featuring a comprehensive selection of grocery items, including fresh produce sourced from local markets, a wide range of dairy products catering to various dietary preferences, an in-store bakery offering traditional Tunisian breads and pastries, and a selection of fresh meat and seafood products from reputable suppliers. In addition to standard grocery items, Supérette Lac 2 offers specialty products that cater to diverse culinary preferences, including a variety of imported international foods such as spices and sauces, as well as a dedicated section for health-conscious shoppers featuring organic, gluten-free, and plant-based items for a balanced diet.The layout of Supérette Lac 2 is designed for ease of navigation, with clearly marked aisles and organized displays. The friendly staff are always on hand to assist customers, making the shopping experience enjoyable and efficient. Where to eat Tunisia may be the smallest country in North Africa, but a visit to this vibrant destination wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. Prepare to fall in love with the unique blend of flavors that define Tunisian food, influenced by a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, including Spanish, Turkish, and Arabic elements. Each dish is a celebration of diverse ingredients, expertly combined to create savory meals that reflect the country’s rich history and culinary heritage. From fragrant spices to fresh produce, Tunisian cuisine offers a delightful experience that captures the essence of its multicultural roots. Café Resto Le 716 is an inviting destination where you can savor a delightful lunch indoors or enjoy a relaxing brunch on the terrace, complete with generous canapés that tantalize the taste buds. The restaurant boasts a striking decor characterized by modern architecture, featuring a harmonious blend of shapes, colors, and materials that create a welcoming ambiance. When visiting for breakfast, be sure to try Ojja (Shakshuka), a beloved Tunisian dish that highlights the region's rich culinary heritage. This flavorful creation features a base of ripe tomatoes infused with garlic, chili peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices, topped with perfectly poached eggs. It’s a hearty and satisfying way to start your day. Café Resto Le 716 offers an impressive selection of desserts that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Among the many options, you can indulge in baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with nuts and honey, or assida, a traditional thick flour cream garnished with grilled pine nuts. Depending on the season, you might also find desserts incorporating pistachios, hazelnuts, and pine kernels. To complement your sweet treats, enjoy a glass of refreshing mint tea, a staple in Tunisian culture that adds a fragrant touch to your dining experience. The combination of delightful desserts and soothing mint tea creates a perfect ending to your meal. BBQ Kantaoui is a must-visit destination for grill enthusiasts, offering a delectable array of unique dishes that make for a truly gourmet dining experience. Specializing in high-quality grilled meats, this restaurant takes pride in its expertly prepared lamb, beef, fish, and kebabs, all cooked to perfection on the grill. Each dish is complemented by a selection of sauces, ranging from mild to spicy, ensuring that there’s something to tantalize every palate. BBQ Kantaoui's standout feature is its unwavering commitment to freshness and quality, as diners rave about the exceptional taste of the food, from tender marinated lamb chops and juicy beef skewers to seasonal fish dishes, all enhanced by the smoky aroma of the barbecue grill, complemented by excellent salads made with crisp, seasonal vegetables and house-made dressings that provide a refreshing balance to the hearty flavors. Adding to the charm of BBQ Kantaoui is the homemade bread, baked fresh daily and served warm. This delicious bread perfectly complements the grilled meats and sauces, making it an essential part of your meal. Its soft texture and slightly crispy crust are ideal for sopping up sauces or enjoying on its own. BBQ Kantaoui offers more than just great food; it provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere that makes it an ideal choice for various dining occasions. The restaurant is designed with comfort in mind, featuring a warm decor that creates a welcoming environment. Whether you’re enjoying a casual family dinner, gathering with friends, or planning a romantic night out, the ambiance enhances the overall experience. The restaurant is widely recommended not only for the quality of its food but also for its impeccable hygiene and cleanliness standards. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the care taken to maintain a clean and pleasant dining environment. Additionally, BBQ Kantaoui offers competitive prices, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Located in the vibrant district of La Marsa, The Kitchen Restaurant stands out as one of the most distinguished dining establishments in Tunis, perfectly balancing the charm of a bistro with the elegance of a luxury restaurant. With its cozy atmosphere and comfortable leather seating, guests are welcomed into a space that invites relaxation and enjoyment. The restaurant’s decor is a harmonious blend of modern elegance and traditional charm, featuring a sober yet stylish design that creates a warm and inviting ambiance. The comfortable chairs and thoughtfully arranged layout make it an ideal setting for both intimate dinners and casual gatherings with friends and family. The Kitchen Restaurant prides itself on a diverse menu featuring expertly grilled meat dishes, from succulent steaks to mouthwatering entrecôte, all carefully prepared with high-quality ingredients that deliver rich flavors and tender textures, complemented by a selection of delicious salads made from fresh, seasonal ingredients that provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty main courses and enhance the overall dining experience. ach plate at The Kitchen Restaurant is not only thoughtfully prepared but also beautifully presented, showcasing the restaurant's attention to detail. The generous portions ensure that diners leave satisfied, making it a great value for the quality of food provided. Complementing the exceptional food is an impressive selection of wines and cocktails, curated to pair perfectly with the diverse menu offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or a fine wine, the knowledgeable staff is on hand to help you choose the perfect drink to enhance your meal. The Kitchen Restaurant La Marsa is versatile enough to cater to a range of dining experiences, from casual meals with friends to special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries. The combination of great food, inviting atmosphere, and attentive service makes it a top choice for locals and visitors alike. L'Atelier du Pizzaiolo in Carthage is a delightful eatery renowned for its authentic Italian pizzas and warm, inviting atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of the historic and picturesque Carthage, this restaurant perfectly combines the allure of its stunning location with the rich culinary traditions of Italy, making it a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike. The menu at L'Atelier du Pizzaiolo is a celebration of Italian cuisine, featuring a diverse array of meticulously crafted pizzas made with the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques, including classics like Margherita and Pepperoni, as well as gourmet options that incorporate local Tunisian flavors, all baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, alongside a thoughtfully curated selection of pastas, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every craving. The ambiance at L'Atelier du Pizzaiolo is casual and cozy, featuring rustic decor with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and warm lighting that create an inviting environment for diners, who can choose to enjoy their meals indoors amid the charming decor or al fresco on the outdoor terrace while soaking in the beautiful views of Carthage, making it an ideal setting for family meals, gatherings with friends, or romantic dinners for two. Nightclubs The nightclubs in Tunis are a little bit different from Europe. The nightclubs are not really a thing and most likely you will find yourself in a bar. There are open-air discos and people enjoying a narguila- water pipe. Female travelers must be warned that going out solo at night is highly advised against. Plaza Corniche is an area known for upscale hotels that all have their own bars and clubs where you can enjoy casual drinks and most popular nightlife venues in the area, with a dance floor that comes alive at night. Le Carpe Diem nightclub located in La Marsa, is trendy nightclub and popular for its lively atmosphere, excellent music, and stylish decor. It often features live DJs and themed parties, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Music is at the heart of the Le Carpe Diem experience. The nightclub frequently hosts live DJ performances, featuring both local and international talent who spin a mix of electronic, house, and popular dance music. Themed parties are a regular highlight, offering unique and immersive experiences that draw large crowds. Whether it's a summer beach party or a glamorous masquerade ball, these events are meticulously planned to ensure an unforgettable night. Le Carpe Diem offers a range of amenities, including VIP areas for those looking for a more exclusive experience, complete with bottle service and private seating. The bar serves an extensive selection of drinks, from expertly crafted cocktails to premium spirits and wines, catering to a variety of tastes. Cafe El M'rabet is the oldest cafe in the city. Cafe El M'rabet exudes an old-world charm with its traditional Tunisian decor. The first floor is a cafe with nice traditional Tunisian seating, and the second floor is the restaurant. Here you will serve your cafe or hookah sitting on traditional chairs and low tables. Live music is often played in the evenings. Housed in a beautifully preserved building that exudes traditional Tunisian charm, Cafe El M'rabet features intricate tile work, ornate wooden ceilings, and classic Tunisian decor elements. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a touch of nostalgia that transports guests to a bygone era. The outdoor terrace provides stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, creating a serene backdrop for an unforgettable night. Nuba bar is located on the ground floor of the Hotel de la Jetee. Nuba bar is open until 3 am making it a great hotspot for the people who want to stay out late. Electronic music is played, various tapas and dishes are offered and a variety of alcoholic drinks can taste your buds. Tourist attraction Carthage is a natural beauty with plenty of history to keep you intrigued and fascinated at the same time with numerous ancient ruins. The ancient city in Tunisia, is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological attractions. The city Carthage is an excellent base to explore the nearby Roman ruins which is one of the highlights you should not miss visiting. Tunisia is home to many interesting and full of history places worthy of the word to visit. Let’s explore just a few of them! The Romans empire left behind their marks all over the countries of the Mediterranean. Baths of Antoninus are the largest ruins of Roman Carthage. The Baths of Antoninus, also known as the Antonine Baths, represent a remarkable testament to the advanced engineering and luxurious lifestyle of ancient Carthage. Constructed during the reign of the Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius in the 2nd century AD, these expansive thermal baths once served as a hub of social activity and relaxation for the city's elite. Spanning over a large area, the baths feature intricate mosaic floors, well-preserved hypocaust heating systems, and impressive architectural elements that offer invaluable insights into the daily lives of Carthaginians during the height of the Roman Empire. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Tunisia. Once you walk inside the ruins, you can understand how majestic it used to be! Today, the Baths of Antoninus stand as one of the most significant archaeological sites in Tunisia, inviting visitors to marvel at their grandeur and immerse themselves in the opulent history of ancient Carthage. Dar El Annabi nestled within the heart of the Medina of Tunis, embodies the essence of traditional Tunisian architecture and culture. This beautifully restored 17th-century mansion, with its ornate wooden ceilings, intricately tiled courtyards, and lush inner gardens, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of affluent Tunisian families of yesteryears. Dar El Annabi is inhabited by the Annabi family and transformed into a private museum presenting the lifestyle of one of the rich Tunisian families in Sidi Bou Said. The rooms are nicely decorated and they even have wax figures to depict people in the house. On the top of Dar El Annabi, you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the city of Tunis, Carthage and Sidi Bou Said. Imbued with a sense of timeless elegance and hospitality, this historic gem invites guests to immerse themselves in the enchanting ambiance of Tunisian hospitality and craftsmanship. The Romans Emperors left behind them great history on Byrsa Hill an ancient site containing the ruins of the original Punic city as well as the Carthage National Museum with a wealth of exhibitions and information about the history of Carthage and St Louis Cathedral known as the Acropolium which is no longer used for worship but instead hosting public events and concerts, making it the perfect place to begin explorations of Carthage. This historic hill, with its commanding views of the Mediterranean Sea, was the site of the original Phoenician settlement of Carthage, founded over 2,700 years ago. Today, it remains a cherished archaeological site, where visitors can explore ancient ruins, including the remains of temples, residential areas, and fortifications, while also enjoying panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Byrsa Hill is not merely a place of historical significance but also a symbol of resilience and cultural pride, inviting travelers to embark on a journey through time and uncover the secrets of Carthage's illustrious history. This hill is said to be the site where Hannibal's father, Hamilcar Barca, was buried. From the top, you can enjoy stunning views of the city. Byrsa Hill is known as the Punic Quarter, or 'Hannibal's neighborhood' where the eminent generals Hannibal once led his army and a troop of war elephants through the Alps to attack Rome from the north. After exploring the ancient ruins of Carthage, we can delve deeper into the city's rich history and culture by visiting other attractions. From the Antonine Baths, which provide a glimpse into the engineering and architecture of ancient Rome, to the Punic Ports, which highlight the maritime prowess of Carthage, each site offers a unique perspective on the city's past. We can also explore the Tophet, an ancient burial ground that offers insight into the religious practices of the Carthaginians, or visit the Carthage Marina, which provides a modern waterfront experience with dining and shopping options. The picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said, known for its blue-and-white architecture and stunning views of the Mediterranean, is also a must-visit. The Roman Theater, which could seat over 5,000 spectators, showcases the cultural significance of entertainment in ancient Carthaginian society, while the Basilica of St. Cyprian reflects the transition of Carthage from a pagan stronghold to a center of early Christianity. These attractions offer a wealth of knowledge and experiences that will help us better understand the history and culture of Carthage, from its ancient roots to its modern-day charm. Tips for your journey through Carthage: The best way to get around Carthage is on foot or by bike, as many of the attractions are close together. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense in Tunisia. Consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group to get a deeper understanding of the history and significance of each attraction. Don't forget to take plenty of photos; the scenery and architecture in Carthage are truly breathtaking! Remember to respect any restrictions or rules at each attraction, and be mindful of any sensitive areas or archaeological sites that may be closed to visitors. If you have ticked Carthage, Tunisia, on the list of countries you want to discover, with its people and its beauties, with its troubled history, with its golden beaches, we are waiting for impressions about your visit to Tunisia!