Africa

Carthage & Sidi Bou Said

A short distance to the north of Tunis lies the World Heritage Site of Carthage, home to the military hero Hannibal and the setting for the tragic romance between Carthaginian Dido and Roman Aeneas in Virgil’s Aeneid. One of the greatest cities of the ancient world, Carthage rose to dominance under the Phoenicians over 2000 years ago. Today the natural splendour of the ruins, with views over the Gulf of Tunis, is truly impressive: from the summit of Byrsa Hill, the spiritual heart of the ancient city, down through the cypress trees to the Roman Amphitheatre, Antonine Baths and Punic Ports, the sights of Carthage still evoke its epic history.

A recommended small hotel on Byrsa Hill with glorious views over the Gulf of Tunis is Villa Didon.

Set high on a cliff to the north of Carthage, overlooking the azure sea of the Gulf of Tunis, the village of Sidi Bou Said is one of Tunisia’s most distinctive attractions. The blue and white shuttered houses, shops and cafes are clustered around the Mosque of Sidi Bou Said, the eponymous 13th Century saint, and have become home over the years to a number of well-known writers and artists. This is a lovely place to relax, soaking up the cooling breezes and wonderful views over the surrounding hills and sea.

Our preferred small hotel in Sidi Bou Said is Residence Dar Said.