Tunisia UNESCO Route & Thalasso: a unique journey full of culture and healthy relaxation
- Destination Explorer
- 1 day ago
- 7 min read
Updated: 12 hours ago
Tunisia surprises.
What starts as a short flight of just over two hours with Tunisair , including a full meal on board (something you rarely see these days), quickly grows into a journey full of history, culture, and relaxation.
During this trip, we discover the UNESCO Route , a route along some of the country's most impressive historical sites, combined with another typical Tunisian element: thalassotherapy , where relaxation and health take center stage.
Table of Contents
Monastir: luxury and thalasso by the sea
Upon arrival in Tunis, we drive towards Monastir , where we stay at the 5-star Royal Thalassa Hotel. The reception is cordial: a freshly squeezed orange juice (deliciously sweet!) and a warm welcome immediately set the tone.
We are staying in a spacious suite with a sea view and enjoying our first introduction to Tunisian cuisine: harissa, brick, ojja, and fresh salads, accompanied by local wines.
But the real highlight here? Our first experience with thalassotherapy : a sea salt scrub and a relaxing massage, the perfect start to this trip.
El Jem: the impressive Roman amphitheater
The amphitheater of El Jem , built in the 3rd century AD, is the third largest in the world and could once accommodate 35,000 spectators.
What makes this monument so special:
impressive scale
well-preserved underground passages (Hypogeum)
visible history of gladiators and spectacles
Tip: combine your visit with the nearby museum, where beautiful mosaics literally take you on a walk through Roman life. The museum is included in your theater admission ticket, costing 12 DT (approximately €4). Opening hours: daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM in summer and until 5:30 PM in winter.
Surrounding the museum is an archaeological park where you can see the remains of three luxury villas which
you can explore. In the House of the Peacock, a mosaic of the proud
bird. You can observe the iridescent colors of its feathers and the refined details of
admiring every eye spot.
In the House of the Dolphins, the playful animals dance in undulating lines through the depths, so vividly that you hear the murmur of the sea. Finally, the Sollertiana Domus reveals its secret through an inscription in Threshold mosaic as a signature of the inhabitants of antiquity.
Kairouan: holy city and UNESCO World Heritage
Kairouan , one of the holiest cities in Islam, is an hour and a half's drive from Monastir. The name is derived from the word "caravan"; the city was the capital of Tunisia for a long time and thus also an important trading center that travelers flocked to. A highlight on your UNESCO route in Tunisia.
The Great Mosque of Kairouan , built in the 7th century, is one of the oldest and most important religious buildings in North Africa. Here, we are accompanied and receive expert explanations from a guide who, at 82, is the oldest guide in this city. He points out the mosque's minaret, which is the oldest original minaret in the world.
What makes Kairouan extra fascinating:
Kairouan is considered a holy city by Muslims, just like Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem.
the atmospheric medina with white houses and colorful doors
impressive religious sites like Zaouia Sidi Sahabi
historic buildings such as the Maison du Gouverneur, with a magnificent example of 18th-century architecture. There you will find beautifully decorated ceilings, charming passageways, and unique mosaics.
The view from the rooftop of this building is an absolute must, offering a panoramic view of the city. On the rooftop we enjoy some delicious tea and homemade cookies.
💡 Tip: have lunch at El Brija on the city wall for a beautiful view.
For a unique overnight stay in this enchanting city, Palais Harran is highly recommended. This unique guesthouse, originally a palace built in the 13th century, features 7 carefully decorated rooms, each with its own theme. It is centrally located in the medina and offers an authentic experience.
Sousse: lively medina by the sea
The historic city of Sousse combines culture with a lively atmosphere.
The medina, fully walled and UNESCO-recognized, is a labyrinth of:
narrow streets
Traditional souks: at this Arabian market, you can buy all kinds of things such as jewelry, leather goods, spices, and much more. Bargaining is part of the tradition, so definitely do not agree to the first price quoted.
cozy cafes
One of our favorite spots is Le Petit Café Maure : small, charming, and perfect for taking a break.
From the tower of the Ribat, a fortified 9th-century fortress, you can enjoy a fascinating view of the city and the sea. It also served as a monastery, and the inhabitants alternated studying the Koran with keeping watch at the lookout post. It is one of the best-preserved monuments in Sousse.
We are staying overnight here at the luxurious 5-star Mövenpick Hotel, once again with access to thalasso facilities.
With direct access to the sea and a private beach, and various swimming pools, including an indoor pool, this is a wonderful place to unwind after a day in the medina and souks of Sousse.
What is Thalassotherapy in Tunisia?
Why is Tunisia a top destination for thalasso?
Tunisia is the world's number 2 destination for thalassotherapy , with more than 60 specialized centers.
Thalassotherapy makes use of:
seawater
algae
mud
sunlight
Popular treatments:
seawater baths
algae packs
hydromassages
relaxation massages
Advantages:
stress reduction
better blood circulation
relief from rheumatism
skin improvement
💡 Everything takes place under medical supervision, which makes the difference compared to a classic spa.
Carthage: where history comes to life
A city that should not be missed on your UNESCO route in Tunisia.
No visit to Tunisia without Carthage .
This city, once a mighty Phoenician and later Roman center, breathes history.
Carthage was founded by the Phoenicians at the end of the 9th century BC and was an important trading empire in antiquity. It was the metropolis of the Punic civilization in Africa and later also the capital of the province of Africa during the Roman era.
Highlights:
Acropolis of Byrsa with panoramic view. The Cathedral of Saint Louis is also located on the Acropolium of Carthage; an imposing building constructed by the French in the 19th century in a striking Neo-Byzantine and Moorish style. The cathedral was erected in honor of the French king, Louis IX, who died here in 1270 during a crusade. Currently, the cathedral primarily serves as a cultural venue. You can purchase a combined ticket for this site, which grants access to most archaeological sites, including the amphitheater and the baths. This costs 12-15 TND (approximately €4).
Antonine Baths , the largest Roman baths outside Rome. The baths are located close to the sea and the current presidential palace. They owe their name to the fact that they were built during the reign of Emperor Antony Pius. Unfortunately, this magnificent complex was almost completely destroyed by the Vandals in the 5th century. Nevertheless, if you look closely, you can still distinguish the structure of the caldarium (hot water bath) and other steam rooms.
The ancient amphitheater, built under the reign of Julius Caesar in the first century AD. Only the size of the theater remains here, as most of the stones were looted by plunderers.
Here, you literally walk through different layers of history that go back thousands of years.
Sidi Bou Said: the blue and white village near Tunis
Our journey ends in Sidi Bou Said , a picturesque village known for its white and blue architecture. The village is not yet on the UNESCO World Heritage List, but the application has been submitted. A decision on this is expected in the second half of 2026.
This charming village is actually a chic suburb of Tunis, which you can reach by train in half an hour.
The village is a popular place among artists. The colors of the village were introduced by the painter Rodolphe d'Erlange, a French painter and musicologist, who visited this village at the beginning of the 20th century.
The village feels like a Mediterranean painting:
narrow streets, be sure to explore the small side streets where it is much less crowded
blue doors
view of the Gulf of Tunis
For the most beautiful view, stop at Café des Délices .
La Villa Bleue is highly recommended for lunch. In addition to being a restaurant, La Villa Bleue is also a luxury hotel with 13 rooms, a spa, and an outdoor pool. It is ideal for those who enjoy a boutique hotel. What really appeals to us here is the breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Practical tips for a trip to Tunisia
Flights: Direct flight with Tunisair from Brussels (±2 hours).
Transport
Distances are relatively short
Transfers between cities usually take 1–2 hours
Price level
Very affordable
Admission to UNESCO sites: ±12–15 TND (± €3–5)
Clothing
Covering clothing recommended at mosques
Best time to travel
Spring & autumn ideal
Summers can be very hot, up to 50°C
Overnight stay
Many 5-star hotels with excellent value for money: resorts, but also boutique hotels and guesthouses.
Often includes thalasso facilities
Visa and passport
For a trip of up to 90 days, you do not need a visa (this applies to Belgians and Dutch nationals).
You do need a valid passport that is still valid for at least 6 months after arrival.
Health
Vaccinations against DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and polio) and Hepatitis A are recommended.
Drink only bottled water (use this for brushing your teeth as well), avoid ice cubes, and be careful with raw food.
FAQ: everything you need to know about Tunisia
Is Tunisia a safe travel destination?
Yes, the main tourist regions such as Tunis, Sousse, and Monastir are safe and well-organized for visitors.
How long do you need for this UNESCO route?
You can comfortably complete a route like this in 4 to 6 days .
Is Tunisia suitable for a combination of culture and relaxation?
Absolutely. Tunisia is one of the few destinations where you:
UNESCO sites
beach
wellness
can combine perfectly
What makes Tunisia unique compared to other destinations?
The combination of:
Roman history
Arab culture
Mediterranean atmosphere
and thalassotherapy
makes it a very versatile destination.
Our introduction to Tunisia has left us wanting more.
From impressive UNESCO sites to relaxing thalassotherapy and charming coastal villages — this country offers a unique blend of culture and relaxation.
And while the north has already managed to surprise us, the south beckons with oases, desert landscapes, and even more hidden gems.
Tunisia is without a doubt a destination that continues to surprise you.
More information about this particularly fascinating destination?
Check this website: Discover Tunisia
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