Tunisia is home to the remains of one of the most powerful cities of antiquity. This guide will help you visit the archaeological site of Carthage with all the important practical information in mind.
What is the archaeological site of Carthage?
Today's Carthage stands on the site of one of the most powerful cities of antiquity. It belonged to the Punic people of Phoenician origin, who founded it in the 9th century BC, just before the founding of Rome. The Punic city grew to become a major military and economic power in the Mediterranean. It became a rival to Rome, which clashed with it several times, eventually destroying it in 146 BC and turning it into a Roman city.
Today, a visit to the archaeological site of Carthage, whose remains are scattered throughout the modern city of Carthage, has become a must-do activity in Tunisia, and the site has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
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Why visit Carthage?
A visit to the archaeological site of Carthage is an enriching way to gain a better understanding of ancient military and trade relations, as well as the origins of Mediterranean civilizations. The site's appeal also lies in its diversity, with Punic and Roman remains illustrating different phases in the city's history. The setting is also spectacular, with most of the remains overlooking the Mediterranean. Another reason to add this archaeological site to your program in Tunisia is its excellent location, close to Tunis and Sidi Bou Saïd.
The article to be read: Sidi Bou Saïd, right next to Carthage, is part of our selection of destinations where to go to avoid the crowds. Don't forget to add it to your itinerary!
What can you see when you visit the archaeological site of Carthage?
Among the most interesting monuments not to be missed when visiting the archaeological site of Carthage, we can cite:
- The Tophet of Carthage: also known as the Tophet of Salammbô, this Punic sanctuary was the site of numerous ceremonies and human sacrifices.
- Antonin's thermal baths: the largest Roman thermal complex in Africa, and the only one in Carthage to have survived in ruins.
- Punic ports: it was thanks to these ports, and their major military and commercial role, that the Punic city was able to grow to such importance.
- Roman villas: these offer a glimpse of life in Roman Carthage after the renaissance it underwent. The villas feature well-preserved mosaics.
- Roman amphitheatre : a typical amphitheatre of Roman civilization, with a major cultural and social role.
- Byrsa Hill: this was the heart of the Punic city, and is now home to the National Museum of Carthage, which is well worth a visit for its many artifacts, statues and mosaics found on the site. From the hill, you can see both ancient remains and a view of the modern city, allowing you to sweep up 3,000 years of history in a single glance.
Discover Carthage and its rich history by booking this guided walking tour. Explore the Tophet of Salammbo, Punic ports, Antonine baths, Roman villas, Byrsa hill, St. Louis Cathedral and the aqueduct. You can also book this guided tour of the archaeological site by bike.
What you need to know before visiting Carthage
Before visiting the archaeological site of Carthage, be sure to read the following practical information.
What are the fees and opening times?
The various remains of the Carthage archaeological site are scattered throughout the modern city, and can be visited with a combined ticket costing 12 Tunisian dinars.
Opening times depend on the season:
- Low season (September 16 to April 30): 08:30 to 15:00.
- High season (May1 to November 15): 08:00 to 18:00.
The archaeological site of Carthage is one of the world's most beautiful ruins, and can therefore suffer from overcrowding during the tourist season. For this reason, and to avoid the sweltering heat, we recommend visiting in the morning.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets for the Carthage archaeological site can be purchased directly on site. Ideally, you should start your visit at the Antonine Baths, and pick up your ticket at this counter.
Article to read: consider reading our article on the best things to do in Sousse, a coastal town south of Tunis, to complete your itinerary in the country.
How do I get to the archaeological site of Carthage?
Most visitors to the archaeological site come from Tunis. Here are the different transport options:
- By cab: this is the most practical option from Tunis. It takes about 20 minutes to get there. Make sure you opt for a licensed cab that activates its meter to avoid any nasty surprises.
Alternatively, we recommend this all-inclusive tour (including guide and entrance tickets) departing from Tunis. You'll visit the ancient city of Carthage, the seaside village of Sidi Bou Saïd, the Bardo Museum and the Medina, all UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- By train: you'll need to opt for the TGM (Tunis-Goulette-Marsa) line, which can be taken from various stations in Tunis. This is an economical and efficient means of transport, which will take you directly to the archaeological site.
Once you're there, don't forget to wear good shoes, as you'll have to do some walking between the various remains scattered around the city.
