Things To Do
in Sfax
Sfax is a coastal city located in eastern Tunisia, known for its bustling port and historical medina. The city is an important hub for trade and industry, particularly in sectors such as olive oil production and fishing. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls of the medina, dating back to the 9th century, as well as the Kasbah, a fortified historic district.
Sfax also offers beautiful beaches, traditional markets, and a vibrant cultural scene.
- "Sabah el khir" - Good morning
- "Chukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Afek" - Excuse me
- "Bikhir, shukran" - I’m fine, thank you
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Medina of Sfax, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the narrow streets and the unique architecture that reflects the city's rich history.
Have lunch at a local café tasting traditional Tunisian dishes. Afterward, visit the Sfax Archaeological Museum to learn more about the region's past.
Take a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade to enjoy the sunset. Dine at a restaurant with views of the Mediterranean, savoring fresh seafood.
Begin with a guided tour of the Grand Mosque of Sfax, appreciating its stunning design and peaceful atmosphere. Explore the nearby souks to experience the local crafts and vibrant culture.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery known for its brik, a popular Tunisian pastry. Spend the afternoon visiting the ancient ruins of the Roman town of Thysdrus.
Indulge in a traditional Tunisian dinner at a restaurant in the Medina. Consider attending a local music performance to enrich your cultural experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with ancient architecture.
- Strategic location near the coast, offering beautiful beaches.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and manufacturing.
- Vibrant local market scene and delicious regional cuisine.
- Friendly and hospitable local population.
- Limited access to certain modern amenities compared to larger cities.
- Potential for infrastructure challenges, especially in transportation.
- Hot summers and limited air conditioning can be uncomfortable.
- Economic disparities and unemployment can affect quality of life.
- Political tensions and changes can impact stability.
Best Activities in Sfax
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a tour of the airport and observe the aircrafts and operations.
Wander through the old town, visit the Souk and experience the local culture.
Relax on the sandy shores, swim in the clear waters, or try water sports like jet skiing or wind surfing.
Discover the history of the region through its collection of artifacts and exhibits.
Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sfax with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sfax
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic old town with narrow streets and traditional architecture, offering great views and photo opportunities.
Ancient gate with scenic views of the city and surrounding area, ideal for capturing panoramic shots.
Beautiful mosque with a minaret that provides a striking backdrop for photographs, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Historical fortress offering stunning views of the city and the coastline, perfect for capturing majestic landscapes.
Food in Sfax
Sfax Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local pastry made of date-filled semolina dough, fried, and then coated in honey. Try this delightful treat at traditional pastry shops like El Frikia on Avenue Habib Bourguiba.
Must-Try!
A thin pastry filled with egg, parsley, tuna, and capers, typically deep-fried and served with a squeeze of lemon. Sample this savory delight at street stalls like Les Trois Boulettes on Avenue Habib Bourguiba.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sfax better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a vibrant display of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional street food such as grilled kebabs, stuffed flatbreads, and fragrant soups.
Take a stroll along this lively street to discover an array of authentic street food vendors. Indulge in local favorites like grilled merguez sausages, spicy harissa-laden sandwiches, and hearty chickpea stews.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of the predominantly Islamic culture in Sfax and show respect by dressing modestly and refraining from public displays of affection.
Use formal greetings such as 'As-salamu alaykum' and be mindful of body language, as certain gestures may have different meanings in Tunisian culture.
Demonstrate respect for elders and authority figures in Sfax, and be polite and courteous in your interactions with them.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sfax with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sfax
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sfax, Tunisia, tipping is generally not expected but is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a tip at restaurants, cafes, and for services like taxi rides or hotel staff.
Payment in Sfax, Tunisia is predominantly done in cash. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some establishments, especially in larger hotels and restaurants, but it's advisable to have cash on hand for smaller businesses and local markets. Additionally, it's important to note that haggling is common in markets, especially for larger purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sfax.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Sfax is a great time to visit, with mild temperatures and colorful landscapes as the flowers bloom. It's a good time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer is hot in Sfax, with temperatures often reaching high levels. It's the peak tourist season, and many people visit for the beaches and warm Mediterranean waters.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and is a good time to visit Sfax. The weather is still pleasant, and the crowds have thinned out, making it easier to explore the city and surrounding areas.
Winter in Sfax can be cool and rainy, but it's also a quieter time to visit. The city has a peaceful atmosphere, and it's a good opportunity to experience local life without the summer crowds.
Sfax at Night
Hiking in Sfax
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful mountain range located near Sfax, ideal for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
This area offers various trails for hikers of different skill levels, featuring scenic pathways and lush greenery.
A national park with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for hiking and observing wildlife.
While primarily known for its salt flats, there are hiking opportunities around the perimeter to explore the unique desert landscapes.
Located a bit further from Sfax, but this area consists of stunning mountainous terrain that offers various hiking trails and natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sfax through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sfax by plane.
Located about 200 km from Sfax, this is the main international airport serving the capital city of Tunis, offering flights to various destinations worldwide.
Approximately 120 km from Sfax, this airport serves the city of Monastir and offers numerous international flights, particularly in the summer months.
Located around 100 km from Sfax, this airport primarily caters to tourists visiting Hammamet and the surrounding areas and handles several international flights.
Situated about 210 km from Sfax, this airport serves the island of Djerba and offers seasonal international flights, especially during the tourist season.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sfax, comprising about 98% of the population.
A minority group in Sfax, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Includes various Arab immigrant groups that have settled in Sfax over the years.
A small community of individuals from various Sub-Saharan countries, often engaged in trade or as migrants.
A small population of Europeans, mainly French and Italians, historically present in Sfax due to colonial ties.
The Soul of Sfax
Discover the essence of Sfax through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Sfax, with many local clubs and a strong fan base. Sfaxien is one of the prominent teams in the Tunisian football league.
Handball enjoys great popularity in Sfax with several clubs competing in national leagues, reflecting the city’s strong tradition in this sport.
Basketball is widely played and followed in Sfax, with local teams participating in various leagues and competitions.
Tennis is a popular sport among the youth in Sfax, with numerous clubs and facilities available for training and competitions.
Athletics is practiced at various levels in Sfax, with local athletes participating in regional and national events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sfax.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tunisian cuisine often features a bounty of fresh vegetables, vegans and vegetarians should communicate their dietary preferences clearly, as some traditional dishes may contain meat or animal products.
Gluten-free dining options may be more limited, but many restaurants are accommodating and can often modify dishes to suit gluten-free requirements. Additionally, seafood-based options and rice-based dishes can be good alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sfax with these cultural adventures.