El Jem: Day Trips and Tours from Tunis

Home to one of the most impressive ancient Roman structures in the world, El Jem is a historic masterpiece. Featuring a spectacularly-preserved amphitheater that dates back to the 3rd century, as well as a museum showcasing smaller artifacts that have been excavated from the region, the destination is a treasure trove for history and culture buffs.

Day trips to El Jem from Tunis are easy to arrange and visit a multitude of breathtaking destinations, including great mosques, and ancient Medinas.

Here's all you need to know about El Jem, one of the most exciting day trips from Tunis.

How to get to El Jem from Tunis?

El Jem is located in the Mahdia Governorate of Eastern Tunisia. It is approximately 200 kilometers south of the country’s capital city, Tunis.

From Tunis to El Jem by car

The journey to El Jem by car takes just over 2 hours and heads south of Tunis, following Highway A1 all the way until you reach your destination.

From Tunis to El Jem by public transport

Those who don’t have access to a car can make the jaunt to El Jem via a direct train that connects the two destinations. The service runs several times per day and takes around 3 hours to reach the site from Tunis Ville station.

Guided tour to El Jem from Tunis

Alternatively, you can book a guided excursion to El Jem and allow someone else to take care of all the transportation details for you. These day trips typically visit a number of destinations and last between 6, and 8 hours. You’ll usually benefit from a convenient hotel pickup service between 7 AM and 9 AM, making for a seamless experience.

How much does the entrance ticket to El Jem cost?

The entrance fee for El Jem is TND10 (US$3) per adult, while children under 12 can visit for free. By paying this admission fee, you’ll be granted access to the amphitheater, as well as the archaeological museum.

What is the typical itinerary?

Each El Jem day trip is unique in its itinerary. However, you can typically expect to be collected from the lobby of your hotel by a friendly guide at a predetermined time. From there, you’ll travel down the country in a comfortable vehicle to reach your first destination. You may journey to El Jem first, where you’ll amble through the arches and cells that make up the fourth-largest amphitheater in the world, as well as the neighboring archaeological museum.

Alternatively, you may visit Kairouan first where you’ll explore a plethora of monuments, including the city’s Great Mosque. You’ll hop between destinations throughout the day, enjoying guided walks through some of the locations. You’ll also be provided with a local lunch at an esteemed restaurant along the way.  

What kinds of tours are available to go to El Jem?

There are several El Jem day tours available for you to choose from, depending on which additional destinations you’d like to visit.

Day trip to El Jem plus Monastir from Tunis

This combination day trip to El Jem plus Monastir is private and you’ll kick your excursion off by traveling to the breathtaking amphitheater. You’ll have a knowledgeable guide to lead you around the site, filling you in on the 3rd-century construct and pointing out details you may miss alone.

From there, you’ll indulge in a traditional feast at a local restaurant before making your way to the Ribat of Monastir, which was built at the end of the 8th century as a stronghold against invaders. Pay your respects to the “Father of Tunisian Independence” at the Bourguiba Mausoleum before returning to Tunis.

Private tour to El Jem plus Kairouan from Tunis

This El Jem day trip begins by transporting you to the 7th-century city of Kairouan. Here, you’ll discover its Great Mosque, which covers more than 9,000 square meters and includes a prayer hall, 30-meter minaret, and extensive courtyard. Moving on, you’ll wander through Kairouan’s Old Town, marveling at the vibrancy of its souks and breathing in the sweet aromas of syrupy pastries before journeying to El Jem.

Upon arrival, you’ll marvel at the largest Roman amphitheater in North Africa, which once seated 35,000 spectators. Stroll through the ruins, imagining the events that took place in the venue, including gladiatorial games, before finishing up your day tour at the town’s archaeological museum where you’ll find relics of the ancient world, including mosaics and sculptures.

Guided tours to El Jem plus Sousse and Kairouan from Tunis

You’ll also visit Kairouan on this day tour to El Jem where you’ll explore the Aghlabite Basins, which date back to the 9th century, experience the cityscape from above and visit the oldest mosque in North Africa.

Continue on through Kairouan to the Sidi Sahib mausoleum, as well as the Medina before making your way to El Jem. After diving deep into the Roman roots of the attraction, you’ll travel to Sousse where you can explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town and admire its myriad of ancient stone buildings.

How much does a day trip to El Jem from Tunis cost?

Private El Jem day trips that also travel to Kairouan cost US$160 per adult and include all entrance fees, as well as round-trip transportation, while excursions that visit Kairouan, Sousse, and El Jem cost US$230 per person.

Alternatively, if you select a combination El Jem and Monastir day tour, you’ll pay US$350 as a solo traveler. However, the cost per head reduces to just over US$170 if you travel in a group of two or more. On top of entrance fees and transportation, lunch is provided for you, and you’ll also benefit from the services of a professional tour guide.

What will you see and do?

El Jem is believed to have been constructed by Emperor Gordian II in the first half of the 3rd century, for spectator events. In its prime, it’s estimated to have been able to hold 35,000 guests, making El Jem the largest amphitheater in North Africa and among the largest in the world.

The site has been beautifully preserved and is said by many to be in better condition than Rome’s Colosseum. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the amphitheater was used as a fortress to protect the town’s residents from raids by both the Vandals and the Arabs.

Today, those on a day trip to El Jem can discover much of its original site, from its underground passageways to its arena and tiers of arcades.

What are the opening times?

El Jem is open between 7:30 AM and 7 PM during the summer months, which stretch from the start of May until the middle of September. Throughout the rest of the year, the attraction is open from 8 AM to 5:30 PM.

When is the best time to visit El Jem?

Spring is perhaps the most favorable time to visit El Jem. The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and low chances of rain. The spring season also witnesses blooming flowers, adding to the beauty.

What other day trips can you do from Tunis?

• Carthage Day Trips from Tunis
• Sidi Bou Said Day Trips from Tunis
• Dougga Day Trips from Tunis
• Kairouan Day Trips from Tunis
• Bulla Regia Day Trips from Tunis

Travel tips

• Visit early or late to avoid the crowds and the midday sun, especially in the hotter months.
• Tunisia is a predominantly Muslim country, so it's respectful to dress modestly.
• When shopping in local markets or buying from street vendors, bargaining is a common practice. It's expected, and part of the experience, but always remain respectful.