The ruins of ancient Carthage and the picturesque blue-and-white village of Sidi Bou Said, both UNESCO-related sites.

About Carthage / Sidi Bou Said

Carthage was once the capital of a powerful Mediterranean empire that rivaled Rome, and its UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites are scattered across a residential suburb north of Tunis. The Antonine Baths (once the largest Roman baths outside Rome), the Punic ports, the Tophet sacrificial site, and the National Museum of Carthage on Byrsa Hill provide a fascinating journey through Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations. The ruins are spread out and require some walking between sites.

Just 2 km north, Sidi Bou Said is one of the most photographed villages in the Mediterranean—a hilltop cluster of whitewashed buildings with iconic blue doors, window frames, and jasmine-draped balconies cascading down toward the sea. The Cafe des Nattes, with its straw-mat terrace, has drawn artists and writers for centuries. The view from the clifftop across the Gulf of Tunis is unforgettable, especially at sunset.

Nearby Landmarks

Carthage ruins Sidi Bou Said village Antonine Baths Byrsa Hill Museum

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $5-8
Time 20-30 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $4-6
Time 20-30 min

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Exit the airport and take a taxi north along the coastal road (10 min). 2. Or walk to the nearest TGM station (Tunis Marine or airport area). 3. Take the TGM to Carthage Hannibal (for ruins) or Sidi Bou Said station. 4. Walk uphill to the village center of Sidi Bou Said.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $5-8 20-30 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $4-6 20-30 min Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The TGM light rail to Carthage and Sidi Bou Said runs until approximately 11 PM. Taxis are available at all hours and cost just 5-8 TND ($2-3) from the airport. The streets of Sidi Bou Said are quiet after 10 PM but walkable and safe.

Luggage Tips

The TGM is simple and allows luggage. Taxis handle bags easily for this very short trip. Sidi Bou Said has steep hills and cobblestoned streets—leave heavy bags at your accommodation before exploring.

Accessibility

The TGM stations have basic accessibility. Carthage archaeological sites have gravel paths and uneven terrain—not fully wheelchair accessible, though Byrsa Hill museum has some accessible areas. Sidi Bou Said's steep cobblestoned streets are not wheelchair accessible.