El Jem Roman Coliseum and Museum Half Day Tour

Sousse , Tunisia

El Jem Roman Coliseum and Museum Half Day Tour

Active

(6 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

It’s more than just a visit—it’s an immersive journey through history with exclusive insights.

Walk through the Amphitheatre of El Jem, exploring underground chambers and climbing to the upper tiers for stunning views. Unlike standard tours, we dive deeper into the stories of gladiators and Roman life.

At the Archaeological Museum of El Jem, you’ll admire stunning mosaics and explore a reconstructed Roman villa, gaining a richer understanding of ancient Thysdrus.

Enjoy small group or private tours, expert storytelling, and air-conditioned transport for a comfortable and personalized experience. Book now and step back in time!

Available options

El Jem Roman Coliseum and Museum Half Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Guide

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Step into history as you explore the Amphitheatre of El Jem, one of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world.
Walk through its grand corridors and towering arches, following in the footsteps of ancient gladiators. Feel the thrill of standing in the massive arena where epic battles once took place, and climb to the upper levels for stunning panoramic views of El Jem.
Venture underground to see the chambers where warriors and wild animals waited before their fights. With our expert guide, you’ll uncover fascinating stories about the amphitheater construction, its role in Roman entertainment, and why it remains a UNESCO World Heritage site today.
Your journey doesn’t stop there! You’ll also visit the El Jem Archaeological Museum, where beautifully preserved Roman mosaics and artifacts reveal what life was like in ancient Thysdrus.
This half-day experience is perfect for history lovers and curious travelers looking to immerse themselves in Tunisia’s incredible past.

At the Archaeological Museum of El Jem, you’ll step into the rich history of ancient Thysdrus, one of the most important Roman cities in North Africa. As you explore the museum, you’ll be amazed by its collection of beautifully preserved Roman mosaics, each telling a unique story of daily life, mythology, and art from centuries ago.

Walk through the reconstructed Roman villa, where you’ll get a glimpse of how wealthy Romans once lived, complete with intricate mosaic floors and elegant courtyard designs. Your guide will bring history to life, explaining the significance of each artifact and how El Jem thrived as a major trade and cultural hub in the Roman Empire.

This visit perfectly complements your tour of the amphitheater, giving you a deeper understanding of the people who built and lived in this once-glorious city. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just curious about Tunisia’s past, this museum offers a fascinating and immersive experience.

What's not included

Gratuities

Coffee and/or Tea

Soda/Pop

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.3

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Sousse

Sousse is a vibrant coastal city in Tunisia, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and the iconic medieval medina. It offers a unique blend of ancient architecture, bustling markets, and modern amenities, making it a compelling destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike.

Top Attractions

Medina of Sousse

The Medina of Sousse is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval Arab-Muslim cities in the world. It features narrow, winding streets, historic buildings, and bustling markets.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (entry to the medina), small fee for some sites

Ribat of Sousse

The Ribat of Sousse is a historic fortification and one of the most impressive examples of early Islamic military architecture in Tunisia. It offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (around 5 TND)

Great Mosque of Sousse

The Great Mosque of Sousse is one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Tunisia. It features beautiful Islamic architecture and a peaceful courtyard.

Religious 30-45 minutes Free (entry to the courtyard), small fee for the museum

Sousse Archaeological Museum

The Sousse Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Tunisia, featuring a vast collection of Roman and Islamic artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and jewelry.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (around 5 TND)

Sousse Beach

Sousse Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with golden sand and clear waters. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day or more Free (some beach clubs may charge)

Ksar Hellal

Ksar Hellal is a small town near Sousse known for its historic ksar (fortified granary) and traditional architecture. It offers a glimpse into rural Tunisian life.

Historical Half day Free (entry to the ksar may have a small fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Brik

A crispy fried pastry filled with egg, tuna, parsley, and sometimes cheese. It is a popular street food in Tunisia.

Snack Contains egg and seafood, can be made with or without cheese.

Lablebi

A hearty soup made with cracked wheat, chickpeas, and spices, often served with a poached egg and harissa.

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be made vegan by omitting the egg.

Couscous

A traditional Tunisian dish made with steamed couscous, vegetables, and meat (usually lamb or chicken).

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Harissa

A spicy chili paste made with red peppers, garlic, and spices. It is a staple in Tunisian cuisine and is used to add flavor to many dishes.

Condiment Vegetarian, can be made vegan.

Popular Activities

Scuba diving Snorkeling Hiking Sunbathing Spa treatments Beach walks Exploring the medina Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, ideal for beach activities and exploring the city. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: French, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Tunisian Dinar (TND)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Sousse is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is important to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, so it is important to be vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be vigilant in crowded areas
• Keep an eye on your belongings
• Use reputable taxis and tour services

Getting there

By air

Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport • 20 km from Sousse

By train

Sousse Railway Station

By bus

Sousse Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city, including the medina and beach areas. Buses can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDrive, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Medina Boujaafar City Center

Day trips

El Jem

60 km from Sousse • Full day

El Jem is a small town in Tunisia known for its impressive Roman amphitheater, which is one of the best-preserved in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history buffs.

Kairouan

90 km from Sousse • Full day

Kairouan is a historic city in Tunisia known for its Islamic architecture and religious significance. It is home to the Great Mosque of Kairouan, one of the most important mosques in the Islamic world.

Mahdia

40 km from Sousse • Half day

Mahdia is a coastal town in Tunisia known for its historic medina and beautiful beaches. It is a great place to explore the rich history of the region and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.

Festivals

International Festival of Sousse • July Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depends on the Islamic lunar calendar) Independence Day • March 20

Pro tips

Visit the Medina early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat
Try local street food for an authentic and budget-friendly dining experience
Bargain politely in markets and with vendors, but be respectful and friendly
Explore the beachfront area for a mix of relaxation and entertainment
Take a day trip to nearby attractions such as El Jem or Kairouan for a deeper cultural experience