Kairouan - Discovering Tunisia

Travelling to Kairouan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kairouan, a pretty good destination in Tunisia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kairouan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kairouan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Tunisia, here's everything to know about Kairouan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kairouan

Kairouan is a city located in the central part of Tunisia and is considered one of the holiest cities in the Islamic world. It was founded in the 7th century and is home to many historical landmarks such as the Great Mosque, which is one of the oldest mosques in North Africa. Kairouan is also known for its weaving industry and is famous for producing high-quality carpets and textiles. Other popular attractions in Kairouan include the Aghlabid Basins, the Medina of Kairouan, and the Museum of Islamic Art. The city has a hot and dry climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination to visit year-round.

What to visit in Kairouan

Sure, here are some tourist attractions of Kairouan, Tunisia with some information: 1. The Great Mosque of Kairouan: This mosque is one of the most important Islamic buildings in North Africa and is believed to have been founded in 670 AD. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains a beautiful courtyard with marble columns, a prayer hall with intricate tilework, and a breathtaking dome.
2. The Aghlabid Basins: These basins were created in the 9th century to collect and store water for the city. They are an impressive example of early Islamic engineering and are still functional today.
3. The Medina of Kairouan: This old town is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, with souks, cafes, and historic buildings. It is a great place to wander around and get a sense of the city's history and culture.
4. The Sidi Sahbi Mausoleum: This mausoleum is the final resting place of Sidi Sahbi, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. It is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims and features beautiful tilework and calligraphy.
5. The Museum of Islamic Art: This museum is located in the Medina and contains a collection of Islamic art and artifacts from across Tunisia. It offers a fascinating insight into the country's rich history and culture.
6. The Bardo Museum: This museum is located in nearby Tunis but is well worth a visit if you are interested in Tunisian history and culture. It contains one of the largest collections of Roman mosaics in the world, as well as artifacts from throughout Tunisia's history.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Kairouan has to offer. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or just soaking up the atmosphere of an ancient city, Kairouan is a great destination to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Tunisia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kairouan.

When to go on holiday to Kairouan

The best time to visit Kairouan, Tunisia is either in the spring (April-June) or in the fall (September-November). During these months the weather is mild with comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring the city's beautiful mosques and ancient ruins. In the summer, Kairouan can get very hot and humid, with temperatures soaring to 40°C or higher, so it's best to avoid visiting during this season if possible. Additionally, the winter months (December-February) can also be quite chilly and damp.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kairouan

Kairouan is located in the center of Tunisia and can be easily accessed by car, bus, or train from major cities in the country.
By car: Kairouan is situated about 150 km south of Tunis, and the drive takes around 2 hours. There are also several car rental companies available at the Tunis-Carthage airport.
By bus: Several public and private bus companies operate daily routes to Kairouan from major cities in Tunisia such as Tunis, Sousse, and Monastir.
By train: The Tunisian Railways (SNCFT) has several trains departing from Tunis to Kairouan on a daily basis. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kairouan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kairouan

Sure, Kairouan is famous for its delicious cuisine and traditional dishes. Here are some of the typical foods of Kairouan: 1. Makhrouth: These are small, sweet pastries filled with dates, nuts, or figs. They are often served with a cup of mint tea as a dessert.
2. Couscous: A staple food of Kairouan, couscous is a fine semolina pasta that is steamed and served with meat or vegetable stew. It is usually eaten on Fridays, the holy day of the week.
3. Brik: This is a popular Tunisian starter made with thin pastry sheets filled with egg, cheese, or minced meat. It is then fried until crispy and served hot.
4. Lablabi: A popular breakfast dish, lablabi is a warm chickpea soup served with bread, harissa (a spicy pepper paste), and olive oil drizzled on top.
5. Tajine: This is a slow-cooked stew that is made of meat, vegetables, and spices. The dish is usually served in a clay pot or tajine and is commonly eaten with bread.
6. Makrouna: Similar to Italian pasta, makrouna is a traditional, homemade pasta that is served with a tomato-based sauce and sometimes topped with meatballs.
7. Zlebia: These are similar to a donut or funnel cake, but are made with a sweet, syrupy batter and deep-fried until golden-brown. They are sometimes used as a dessert or a sweet snack.
These are just some of the many delicious foods that you can try in Kairouan. Enjoy your trip!
You can find general info about typical foods in Tunisia here.

Is Kairouan an expensive destination for tourists?

Kairouan is generally considered an affordable tourist destination compared to other cities in Tunisia. Accommodation, food, and transportation are relatively inexpensive, and typical tourist activities such as visiting historical sites and shopping in the local markets are also reasonably priced. However, the cost of your trip will ultimately depend on your travel style and preferences. Luxury accommodations and dining options may be more expensive, while budget-conscious travelers can find affordable options. It's always a good idea to research and plan your trip in advance to get the best possible price for your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Kairouan

The best areas to find accommodation in Kairouan, Tunisia would be downtown Kairouan, which is the historic center of the city and home to the Great Mosque of Kairouan, as well as the Medina with its markets and shops. Another option would be to stay near the Bouassida park or around the Aghlabid Pools, the UNESCO-listed archaeological sites just outside the city center. Additionally, there are several hotels and guesthouses along the main road leading to Sousse, which is around 30 minutes away from Kairouan by car.
You can check hotel prices at Kairouan here:
Booking.com

Is Kairouan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kairouan is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is always recommended to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety while traveling. Some tips to consider include: - Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Keep your valuables (cash, passport, etc.) in a safe and secure place.
- Follow the advice of locals and authorities, especially in case of any political unrest or demonstrations.
Overall, Kairouan is well-regarded as a popular tourist destination in Tunisia and visitors are welcomed with open arms.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Tunisia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kairouan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kairouan the most?

Kairouan, also known as the "City of 50 Mosques," is a beautiful and historic destination in Tunisia that will appeal to a range of travelers. Couples and young people looking for fun will enjoy exploring the city's narrow, winding streets, visiting the stunning mosques and other religious sites such as the Aghlabid Basins or the Bir Barouta Hill. Families will also have a great time in Kairouan, as there are plenty of opportunities to learn about local culture and history. The city offers a number of museums and historic sites, such as the Museum of Islamic Art or the Great Mosque of Kairouan, as well as traditional markets that offer unique shopping experiences with local food and handicrafts.
Overall, Kairouan is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and beautiful architecture, making it an ideal place for all types of travelers.

How to get around Kairouan

The best way to move around Kairouan is by taxi or on foot as the city is relatively small and it's easy to walk between sights. Buses and louages (shared taxis) are also available for longer distances or trips outside the city. However, it's important to note that public transportation is not always reliable and schedules may change frequently.

What to see around Kairouan

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Kairouan, Tunisia: 1. Sbeitla: This ancient Roman town is located about an hour and a half drive west of Kairouan. It has some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Tunisia, including a theater, a forum, and several temples.
2. El Jem: This sprawling amphitheater is one of the largest Roman coliseums in the world and is located about an hour's drive east of Kairouan.
3. Mahdia: This charming coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches and historic medina that dates back to the 10th century. It's located about an hour and a half drive east of Kairouan.
4. Zaghouan: This small town is located about an hour's drive north of Kairouan and is famous for its ancient aqueducts and the Temple of Water.
5. Sidi Bou Said: This picturesque village is located about two hours' drive northeast of Kairouan and is known for its beautiful blue-and-white architecture and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. I hope these suggestions are useful! Let me know if you need more information.
For every travel information about Tunisia you can click here.

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