Carthage to Rome
Trip Details
Take the road less travelled on a 15-day adventure through Tunisia and Italy. From the ancient forts and mosques of Africa's north, to the piazzas and cathedrals of Europe's south, this journey takes in the very best of what this region has to offer. Sleepy seaside villages, hilltop Berber communities, energetic metropolises and a city frozen in time all await on this once-in-lifetime trip.
Itinerary
Day 1 Tunis
For those arriving early, a visit to the Bardo Museum, with its extraordinary Roman mosaics, is a must.
Day 2 Monastir/Mahdia
See one of Tunisia's finest examples of Islamic architecture at the sprawling fort in Monastir.
Day 3 Matmata
Discover remote, hilltop Berber villages and underground pit homes in the desert landscapes of Matmata. See Hotel Sidi Driss, made famous in the original Star Wars movie as the home of Luke Skywalker.
Day 4 Kairouan
With its charming blue-and-whitewashed medina, and its place in history as one of the seven holy cities of Islam, Kairouan is a fascinating destination. Visit the oldest mosque in North Africa, wander past elegant merchant houses and be sure to try a slice of makhroud - a honey-soaked, date-filled semolina cake.
Day 5 Sidi Bou Said
Its time to kick back and relax in the seaside village of Sidi Bou Said. Stroll along its cobbled alleyways, past picturesque white and blue houses perched on cliffs overlooking the beautiful Bay of Tunis.
Day 6 Tunis/Overnight Ferry
Travel back to the capital to catch an overnight ferry bound for Italys largest island, Sicily.
Days 7-8 Palermo
Chaotic and vibrant, the energy of Sicilys capital is infectious. Soak up the atmosphere with a walk through the old part of town to see its impressive churches, piazzas, fountains and palace. Take a day trip to nearby Monreale to see its cathedral - one of the worlds greatest examples of Norman architecture.
Day 9 Agrigento
Explore the Valley of the Temples, a Greek temple complex dating back to the 6th century BC and now listed as a World Heritage site.
Days 10-11 Taormina
Bask in spectacular views of both the Mediterranean and mighty Mt Etna from the medieval township of Taormina. Be sure to visit the Teatro Greco - an amphitheatre overlooking the sea - before descending down to the beach via the cable car.
Days 12-13 Naples
Visit the National Archaeological Museum, one of the best in Europe, which houses original artefacts rescued from the Pompeii site. Afterwards, see the might of Mt Vesuvius firsthand on a visit to the ruins of Pompeii.
Days 14-15 Rome
The adventure concludes in the ancient streets of Italys capital. With iconic sights jostling for space with modern boutiques and cafes, be spoiled for choice in this incredible city.