6 Best Tours & Things To Do In Monastir (With Reviews & Prices)

Monastir is a fantastic place for exploring on your own or with guided tours. Whether you’re drawn to ancient ruins, cultural sites, or adventures in nature, this coastal city has plenty to offer.

Some experiences stand out for their uniqueness, like the horseback riding adventure that combines scenic landscapes with a touch of adrenaline, or the full-day excursions to Carthage and Kairouan, which blend history, religion, and archaeology. We love how these tours give you a chance to see Tunisia’s diverse heritage without feeling rushed.

Below is a quick overview of the best tours in Monastir, ranging from cultural explorations and ancient Roman sites to desert adventures and local town visits. Each offers something special—so whether you’re a history lover, an adventure seeker, or someone wanting a relaxed cultural taste, there’s something here for you.

1. Horseback riding with private transfer

For around $63, this horseback riding experience offers a three-hour escape into Tunisia’s scenic landscapes. What makes this tour stand out is its personalized nature—your guide takes you through racing tracks near golf courses and along the seaside, with mesmerizing views of the coast.

It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting to connect with nature while trying something a little different. The private transfer ensures comfort from your hotel, taking the hassle out of logistics.

Guests consistently praise this tour, with one reviewer calling it “the best activity in Sousse,” highlighting the professional service and friendly guides. Even if you’re a beginner, you’ll be well taken care of—guides help with the horses, and the scenery makes for memorable photos. The ride offers a mix of beach, countryside, and golf course views, all wrapped into a relaxing, memorable outing.

Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a flexible, scenic outdoor activity that combines nature, history, and good company—plus a professional guide to enhance your experience.

2. Private Half Day Tour to Roman Coliseum EL JEM from Monastir

At number 2, this tour explores the awe-inspiring El Jem Amphitheatre, one of the largest and best-preserved Roman arenas in the world. For about $80, you’ll spend around four to five hours immersed in history, walking the same galleries that once hosted gladiator battles. The tour continues with a visit to the El Jem Museum, which displays artifacts that vividly showcase Tunisia’s fascinating past.

The highlight is the amphitheater, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once held 35,000 spectators. Your guide provides excellent insights into Roman engineering, gladiatorial combat, and the site’s role in ancient entertainment. The scenic one-hour drive through lush countryside is an added bonus, setting a relaxed tone for your adventure.

Reviews recommend this trip for its personal touch—reviewers like “Ala” and “Abdullah” mention the knowledgeable guides and the well-preserved ruins—making it a rewarding day out. The opportunity to climb to the upper tiers for panoramic views offers a real sense of scale and history.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and archaeology fans, this tour offers a deep dive into Roman Tunisia with excellent value and memorable sights.

3. Tunis, Sidi Bousaid and Carthage Day Trip from Monastir

For about $116, this full-day trip takes you through Tunisia’s most iconic sites, blending cultural, architectural, and historical treasures. The itinerary includes a visit to Sidi Bousaid, a hillside village famous for its blue-and-white charm and stunning sea views—ideal for a peaceful walk and photo ops.

Then, you’ll explore Carthage, where ruins and panoramic views of Tunis and the Gulf await, and finish in the vibrant capital city, Tunis, with time to roam its historic medina.

The tour offers a rich experience, with a dedicated guide explaining the significance of each site, from the Great Mosque of Kairouan to the Aghlabid Basins. Travelers love how flexible the guide is, adjusting stops based on interests. Many say the highlight is the artistic inspiration of Sidi Bousaid and the archaeological significance of Carthage.

Reviews confirm this tour’s value for history and culture lovers, emphasizing the knowledgeable guiding and well-planned itinerary. It’s a full day, but the mix of tranquil scenery and lively city life makes it well worth your time.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a comprehensive, culturally rich day that includes both ancient ruins and picturesque towns.

4. 2-Day Tunisian Sahara Tour with Food & Stay from Sousse

For travelers craving a desert adventure, this two-day tour offers a unique look at southern Tunisia’s Roman ruins, Star Wars filming locations, and desert landscapes. Priced at $151, it includes visits to El Jem and the troglodyte homes of Matmata, famous for their appearance in Star Wars movies. You’ll spend a night in Douz, a desert town, with optional camel rides and authentic Tunisian dinners.

What sets this apart is its combination of history, natural beauty, and pop culture. The tour involves long drives but also offers immersive experiences like walking through underground homes and riding camels at sunset. The reviews note the professionalism of guides and drivers, with many saying the camel ride at sunset was a highlight.

The tour is best suited for those who enjoy adventure, history, and desert scenery. You’ll get a good sense of Tunisia’s diversity, from Roman relics to film sets. Keep in mind the long travel times—this isn’t for those who want a leisurely, relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re looking for a multi-faceted trip that exposes you to Roman history, desert landscapes, and film history all in one go.

5. Kairouan Holy City and El Jem Colosseum Tour from Sousse

At around $86, this full-day tour combines Islamic architecture and Roman ruins. You start in Kairouan, visiting the Great Mosque, the Barber Mosque, and the Aghlabid Basins. These sites showcase Tunisia’s religious and engineering achievements. After a buffet lunch, you head to El Jem, where you explore its massive Roman amphitheater.

This tour is ideal for those interested in religious history and archaeology, with a focus on Islamic sites as well as Roman relics. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, offering insights into both cultures. Many reviewers appreciate the balance of visiting significant sites without feeling overwhelmed.

While some mention a desire for more time in the Medina of Kairouan, the itinerary allows ample time to appreciate both the religious and ancient Roman symbols of Tunisia’s diverse past.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers wanting a mix of Islamic architecture and Roman history, with guided insights and a full-day experience.

6. 2 Hour Hergla Visit and Sousse Medina Heritage Tour

This quicker tour, priced at just over $41, is great for a taste of local life and crafts. You’ll start in Hergla, a small seaside village known for raffia weaving and traditional crafts. Afterward, you’ll explore the Medina of Sousse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with Arab architecture, bustling souks, and historic buildings.

Perfect for travelers with limited time, this tour offers a compact yet rich experience of coastal villages and medieval markets. Reviews note the excellent commentary from the guide and the opportunity for free time in Sousse’s medina for shopping.

While it doesn’t go into deep archaeological detail, it provides a local flavor and cultural insight, especially if you want a short but meaningful visit.

Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a quick, culturally rich outing with shopping, sightseeing, and local art.

How to Choose Your Best Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interest in history or culture, and time availability. If you’re after a relaxing outdoor activity, horseback riding is a top choice. For history enthusiasts, the tours to El Jem and Kairouan provide deep insights into Tunisia’s Roman and Islamic past.

Need a full-day immersion? The Tunis, Sidi Bousaid and Carthage trip offers a balanced mix of sites. For desert adventures, the 2-day Sahara tour combines history and natural beauty, making it perfect for explorers.

Booking early is advised, especially for popular full-day trips, and always check the weather and your physical readiness—some tours involve walking or riding. Whether you prefer cultural sightseeing, adventure, or relaxing scenic rides, these options cover all bases.

In summary, Monastir offers a variety of tours and experiences suited for every interest. From the spectacular Roman ruins to local markets and desert adventures, there’s something for all. For a relaxed, culturally immersive day, the Kairouan and El Jem tour is excellent. For something more adventurous, the Sahara 2-day trip provides a memorable mix of history, film sets, and natural beauty.

And if you’re just looking to enjoy the scenery on horseback, that’s a fantastic, laid-back option too. Whatever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences.