One of the most popular excursions from the Tunisian coastal resorts is to the town of Kairouan. With many mosques and a thriving carpet weaving industry, it is an interesting trip to the interior. The word ‘kairouan’ actually means ‘caravan’ and the town was once on the ancient caravan route of trade. 

Just one hour’s drive from Monastir it is a great way to discover the dry and dusty interior, but visitors will be glad to quickly return to the greener and more hospitable terrain along the coast.

Kairouan is Tunisia’s most important religious centre and the historic Old Town, or Medina, is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It is advisable for visitors to wear modest dress, including covered upper arms and no shorts. First stop should be at the Tourist Office to complete an authorization form and buy an entrance ticket to all the local attractions. 

One of the keys to Kairouan’s survival is its water supply. An aqueduct in Jebel more than 32 km (20 miles) away carries water to the Aghlabid Pools which can be seen close to the Tourist Office. The next stop should be the medina with its crenellated sandstone walls enclosing a bustling market area of trade and plenty of local shops and cafés. The local carpets here in the souk are excellent but the best prices can be found at Bab Tunis medina. It is at the very end of Avenue 7 Novembre, the main artery through the centre of the old town. Before leaving the souk, look for the well of Bir Barouta, the original town spring. It is on the Rue des Tapis, amidst some whitewashed local residences. Climb up the nearby steps to see the camel walking around in circles drawing the water. Legend has it that those who drink the water will return to Kairouan, but for reasons of health and the disgusting taste, it is not advisable to do so!

Kairouan is also known for its mosques which can fill a day all by themselves. If you are to choose just one, visit the Great Mosque which is open to all visitors, except for the prayer hall, and has a magnificent interior.

Kairouan has a surprisingly good number of restaurants, so plan to stay and eat here. There are many rotisseries outside the medina or visit the Restaurant Sabra next to the Hotel Tunisia. The Restaurant Fairouz, off Habib Bourguiba, does excellent peppered steak at local prices as well as brik and tajines. Plan to take home some of the sticky pastries from the Meilleur Makrouth on Avenue 7 Novembre for a pleasant souvenir of your day in Kairouan.