Tunis

After the flight arrived at Tunis Carthage airport, our local driver will pick you up from the exit of airport, then drive to check in the hotel. The rest time of today is your free time.

The Great Mosque of Kairouan

The Great Mosque of Kairouan stands as the emblem of the city, recognized as one of the oldest and most stunning mosques globally. It ranks among the most significant monuments in the Maghreb region, with its religious importance elevating Kairouan to the status of the fourth holiest city in Islam. Visitors are captivated by its towering minaret and expansive courtyard, which is bordered by beautifully designed arcades that house a sundial. The grand entrance features intricately carved cedar wood doors that lead into prayer halls adorned with numerous marble columns. Established in 670 AD, this architectural marvel, reminiscent of an adobe fortress, has served as a source of inspiration for subsequent mosque constructions throughout the Maghreb.

Medina of Kairouan

The medina of Kairouan is renowned for being one of the most well-preserved and authentic in Tunisia. Visitors can explore its vibrant souks, which are filled with traditional crafts and local products. A highlight of any visit is indulging in Kairouan's famous pastries, particularly "Les Mekroudhs," a delightful sweet treat made with semolina, olive oil, and dates. Additionally, Kairouan is celebrated for its artisanal carpet-making, showcasing a rich tradition that attracts many enthusiasts and shoppers alike.

Amphitheatre D'el Jem

The medina of Kairouan is celebrated as one of the most well-preserved and authentic in Tunisia. Visitors can explore its lively souks, which offer a rich array of traditional crafts, including the city’s renowned carpets. While wandering through the narrow streets, be sure to indulge in Kairouan's famous pastries, particularly "Les Mekroudhs," a sweet treat made from semolina, olive oil, and dates. The medina also showcases the artistry of local carpet-making, making it a vibrant hub of culture and craftsmanship.

Ribat of Monastir

The Ribat of Monastir stands as the oldest and most significant defensive structure along the Maghreb coast, erected by Arab conquerors in the early days of Islam. Established in 796, this fortress underwent several medieval renovations. Its quadrilateral layout comprises four main buildings surrounding two interior courtyards. The Ribat features small cells for "warrior monks" who balanced military duties with spiritual practices. Two prayer rooms are housed within, with the larger one now showcasing rare religious artifacts and medieval crafts. A spiral staircase of 100 steps leads to the watchtower, which once facilitated nighttime communication with nearby ribats through light signals. Today, it offers visitors a stunning panorama of Monastir and the Mediterranean

Bassins Aghlabites

The Aghlabid Basins, located outside the ramparts of Kairouan's medina, are indeed a remarkable historical monument in Tunisia. Constructed around 860-862 AD during the reign of Aghlabid sovereign Abu Ibrahim Ahmed Ibn Mohamed Ibn Al Aghlab, these basins represent one of the most significant hydraulic engineering feats in Islamic history.

Great Mosque of Testour

The Andalusian village of Testour is renowned for the Great Mosque, which epitomizes Andalusian architecture, particularly showcased in its 23-meter tall octagonal minaret adorned with Andalusian-style inscriptions and small double windows featuring glazed decorations. At the top of the minaret, a mechanical clock adds to its charm, while its overall appearance is reminiscent of the Aragonese bell towers of southern Spain. Visitors can also indulge in a cheese tasting to savor the region's specialties, making for an enjoyable experience just an hour's journey away.

Dougga

The information provided in the search results does not match the query about a UNESCO World Heritage Site classified in 1997. The search results primarily discuss the town of Testour in Tunisia, its history, architecture, and cultural significance. There is no mention of a Roman city being classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Therefore, I cannot provide an accurate answer to this specific query based on the given search results.

Bulla Regia

Bulla Regia is a remarkable archaeological site located northwest of Jendouba in Tunisia, representing a rich historical tapestry spanning over 17 centuries. Originally founded by Numidians in the late 6th century BC, the site quickly evolved from a royal residence to a significant Roman settlement. Initially an autonomous city during the early Roman period, Bulla Regia was elevated to a municipality under the Flavians and later granted the prestigious status of a Roman colony by Emperor Hadrian between 117-138 AD13. The site is particularly renowned for its unique underground architectural design and well-preserved Roman structures, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region's complex historical development.

Tunis

Check out the hotel, take the private transfer to the airport, then fly to Malta to continue the next part of the journey.

Malta

After the flight arrived at Malta airport, our local driver will pick you up from the exit of airport, then drive to check in the hotel.

Malta

Meet your guide and a small group of up to 25 people in central Valletta for a morning departure. After a brief introduction to the city, which was constructed by the Knights of St John in 1565 and is now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, embark on a walking tour of its highlights. Discover Valletta’s stunning Baroque architecture as you stop to admire St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Auberge de Castille, and the Church of St. Paul's Shipwreck. Visit St. George’s Square to see the opulent Grand Master’s Palace, while your guide points out notable sites such as the new Parliament building, the ruins of the Royal Opera House, and historic landmarks like the Great Siege Monument, The Siege Bell Memorial, and Fort St. Elmo. Continue through the vibrant Piazza Regina and stroll around the picturesque Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens, learning about Valletta’s significance as the 2018 European Capital of Culture while enjoying views over the Grand Harbour.

Malta

It will free day for you before we take the flight from Malta to Catania of Sicilia.

Catania

Check out of hotel, take the private transfer to the airport, fly to Catania in Sicillia. After the flight arrived at Catania airport, our local driver will pick you up from the exit of airport, then drive to check in the hotel. The rest of today will be your free time.

Embark on an active tour of Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, starting from Catania and exploring its dynamic features. Hike up to an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level, where you'll witness ancient and recent lava flows while learning about the volcano's geological history and its unique flora and fauna from your guide. As you venture to the inner craters, you'll be surrounded by a stunning lunar-like landscape offering panoramic views of eastern Sicily. After a short break, don a helmet and torch to safely enter a lava cave, where you can marvel at the fascinating underground formations. The tour concludes with a walk through lush vegetation leading to the breathtaking Valle del Bove, showcasing the diverse ecosystems that thrive on the volcano's slopes.

Palermo

Check out of hotel, take the local taxi to the train station, take the train to Palermo in Sicillia. After the train arrived at Palermo airport, then take the local taxi to drive to check in the hotel. The rest of today will be your free time.

Palermo

Join an unforgettable pizza and gelato cooking class in Palermo, where you'll learn to craft your own pizza masterpiece using fresh tomatoes and mozzarella under the guidance of a skilled pizzaiolo. The class includes an expert demonstration, providing you with valuable tips and techniques to perfect your pizza-making skills. While the dough rests, engage in delightful activities and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of authentic Italian gelato. Savor the delicious flavors of your creations and receive a digital booklet with recipes to impress your family and friends back home. This enjoyable afternoon promises fun for all ages while offering a deeper understanding of Italian culture and its cherished culinary traditions, making it a memorable experience in the heart of Palermo.

Palermo

Palermo, a city of allure, is home to rich cultural and historical treasures, including eight UNESCO sites, and our intimate small group tour invites you to explore its top attractions and local cuisine. Over the course of three captivating hours, you'll experience the stunning Baroque and Normann-Arabic architecture, starting at Piazza Pretoria, famously known as the "Square of Shame," where the grand marble fountain adorned with striking nude statues captivates visitors. You'll also visit the 14th-century Praetorian Palace, which houses the Town Hall, and the Royal Palace, now the Regional Parliament, featuring the breathtaking golden mosaics of the Palatine Chapel. Iconic sites such as Martorana Church, celebrated as one of the "most beautiful monuments in the world," and the diverse Cathedral of Palermo await your discovery. To enhance your cultural expedition, indulge in a delicious Sicilian cannolo at a local shop.

Palermo

Check out of hotel, take the private transfer to the airport, the whole journey will be finished then.