Stroll through a city where empires clashed, legends were born, and history still whispers between luxury villas and seaside ruins.

Today, Carthage is a serene, upscale suburb of Tunis—but beneath its modern charm lie layers of epic drama:

• A Queen’s Clever Trick – Legend says Dido founded Carthage by outsmarting a king with an ox hide (she cut it into strips to claim a whole hill!).
• Rome’s Greatest Rival – This was the city that sent Hannibal marching over the Alps… with war elephants. (Yes, really.)
• Punic Power to Roman Ruins – Explore UNESCO-listed temples and baths where merchants once traded Mediterranean treasures.

Picture sunset views over Roman amphitheaters, yachts bobbing near ancient ports, and bougainvillea spilling over gated villas. Carthage wears its past like silk, soft to the touch, yet woven with fire.

An open-air museum

Despite Rome’s wrath, Carthage refuses to disappear. Today, its ruins are scattered across a peaceful, modern suburb of Tunis, and walking through them is like time travelling through layers of history. Here’s what you can’t miss:

1. Byrsa Hill: The Heart of Carthage

The Punic Quarter: Walk through the remains of Carthaginian houses, where you can still see traces of mosaics and ancient drainage systems.
St. Louis Cathedral: A 19th-century relic from the French era, offering an incredible panoramic view of Tunis.

2. Baths of Antoninus

Built in the 2nd century AD, these were among the Roman Empire's largest bath complexes. Today, visitors see:

• Striking brick columns and partial walls marking the original layout
• Remains of the advanced heating system (hypocaust)
• A dramatic seaside terrace with Mediterranean views

Informational plaques explain each section, and local guides are often available for deeper insight. The scale of this site is impressive – a testament to Rome's grandeur in Carthage.

Carthage Ruins © By Asma Hafoudhi

3. The Punic Ports - Carthage’s Secret Weapon

Carthage’s navy was its ultimate power and these circular ports, designed to hide and deploy warships instantly, were ancient engineering at its best. The remains are still visible, and trust me, standing there will send shivers down your spine.

4. The Roman Amphitheatre

While smaller and less preserved than El Jem's famous Colosseum, Carthage's Roman-era amphitheatre still echoes with history. Built during Rome's occupation, this compact arena once hosted gladiator combats and public spectacles. Its weathered stones and partial structure offer a more intimate look at ancient entertainment - no crowds, just you and centuries of stories.

5. The Tophet

This UNESCO-listed sanctuary contains row upon row of carved tombstones marking ancient urns—some holding the remains of children. While Roman historians claimed Carthaginians practiced child sacrifice here, modern scholars debate whether these were ritual offerings or natural deaths.

Walking among the weathered stelae, you’ll confront one of antiquity’s most haunting questions, where even the stones seem to withhold their secrets.

6. Carthage Museum

Located near Byrsa Hill, this museum houses a remarkable collection of Carthaginian and Roman artifacts. From finely crafted jewelry to remnants of ancient warships, it’s a must-see for history buffs.

Read more: 10 Museums You Can’t Miss

Carthage Museum © by Amvppc

7. The Tomb of King Louis IX

Perched on Byrsa Hill, this neo-Byzantine memorial honors the French saint-king who died here during the Eighth Crusade. Though his remains were returned to France, the site offers sweeping views of Carthage and a tangible link to medieval Europe’s clash with North Africa.

8. North Africa American Cemetery

This meticulously maintained WWII memorial holds over 2,800 graves of Allied soldiers who fought in the North African campaign. Rows of white marble crosses and a poignant chapel overlook the Mediterranean, a stark reminder of Tunisia’s strategic role in modern history. The visitor centre’s maps and personal stories bridge continents in silent tribute. For more details, please visit the American Battle Monuments Commission website.

Note: Many of these sites, like the cathedral and the museum, can be explored virtually through Google Maps.

Architecture and the Presidential Palace

Modern Carthage is home to some impressive architecture. The Presidential Palace stands near the ruins, a reminder of the city’s political importance even today. While you can’t visit the palace itself, you can stroll through the nearby neighbourhoods, where you'll see luxury modern Tunisian houses, French colonial villas and seaside ruins.

Just moments away, Beit Al Hikma offers a masterclass in preservation. A historic palace transformed into a cultural centre where every corner reveals intricate craftsmanship. While intimate in scale, its cultural significance is profound: you might encounter leading intellectuals at lectures or exhibitions (advance schedule checks are recommended). The building itself is a masterpiece, with meticulously carved woodwork, ornate tilework, and graceful arches that showcase Tunisia's rich artistic traditions. (visit their website)

For sacred architecture, two mosques stand out.

The Anas Ibn Malik Mosque, built in the early 2000s under President Ben Ali, dominates the skyline as one of Tunisia's largest modern mosques.

In contrast, the modest but historic Byrsa Mosque (also called Agha Mosque) dates back to the 19th century when it was commissioned by Mustapha Agha, Tunisia's Minister of War - its Husainid-era design stands as one of the region’s most unique Islamic landmarks.

Zarrouk Palace © By Céline Rabaud

Where to Eat & Stay

Carthage may have been salted by Rome, but today it’s full of flavour!

The city has some fantastic restaurants where you can sample authentic Tunisian cuisine and fresh Mediterranean seafood. 

Standout Dining Spots

• Les Indécis – A chic and contemporary restaurant showcasing modern Tunisian cuisine. Its sophisticated atmosphere and innovative dishes have made it a local favourite.

• L'Atelier du Pizzaiolo – A cozy restaurant near Carthage’s old port, serving delicious pizzas in a warm atmosphere with friendly staff.

• Punic'Art – A charming café-restaurant located next to a public park, boasting stunning sea views. Perfect for breakfast in the morning or a relaxed evening with friends, it also features a playground, making it ideal for families.

• Yam's – A stylish yet laid-back spot famous for its impeccable crêpes, delicious cocktails, and relaxed vibe—the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Where to Stay

• Villa Didon – Located on the historic hill of Carthage, this boutique 5‑star hotel sits near the archaeological ruins and the Carthage National Museum, offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and the hill of Sidi Bou Said  .
• Dar Esma – Dar Esma is a charming guesthouse where guests feel at home thanks to Esma's warm hospitality and cozy atmosphere. Spacious, clean rooms and delicious homemade breakfasts make it a standout choice. Ideally located in La Marsa, it's just a 20-minute walk from both the Cisterns of La Malga and Carthage Public Park, with the beach, cafes, and shops nearby. This hidden gem offers an authentic Tunisian experience that surpasses standard hotels.

Carthage Ruins © By Asma Hafoudhi

How to Get There & Tips for Visiting

By Car/Taxi: Just 20 minutes from Tunis-Carthage International Airport. Taxis are cheap but ensure the meter is used! (About 15 DT)
By Train: Take the TGM train from Tunis (cheap and scenic, but don’t expect luxury).
Best Time to Visit: Spring & Fall are ideal. Most sites are open from 9 AM to 5 PM — double-check times in advance!
Summer Warning: If you visit in summer, wear sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated. Mornings and late afternoons are cooler.

Tickets: Most sites have a combo ticket (about 20 DT), giving you access to multiple ruins super budget-friendly!

Carthage Today: A Legacy That Endures

Though Rome sought to erase Carthage from history, the city was reborn. Today, it’s a peaceful, upscale suburb of Tunis with breathtaking coastal views, yet its ancient past remains etched in every stone, every ruin, and every breeze from the sea.

If you find yourself in Tunisia, don’t just visit Carthage, immerse yourself in it. Walk where Hannibal once stood, gaze across the same Mediterranean waters, and feel the weight of history beneath your feet. Empires may rise and fall, but Carthage’s legacy lives on, timeless and unshaken.