Things To Do
in Sousse
Situated on Tunisia's eastern coast, Sousse blends a centuries-old medina with a lively beach resort vibe. Its landmark Ribat and the UNESCO-listed Medina of Sousse anchor a maze of souks, mosques, and cafe culture. The wide Corniche and sandy beaches stretch along the turquoise sea, offering scenic views and seaside dining.
Visitors come for history, culture, and a welcoming Mediterranean atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ribat of Sousse, one of the best-preserved examples of Islamic military architecture. Climb to the top of the tower for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Wander through the narrow streets of the medina, where you can admire traditional architecture and vibrant local life.
After lunch at a local café, delve deeper into the rich history of Sousse by visiting the Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of Roman mosaics. Stroll through the bustling souks, where you can shop for unique handicrafts, spices, and textiles while interacting with friendly local vendors. Take a moment to relax at the Place de la République, soaking in the atmosphere of this lively square.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Tunisian dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the medina. Savor dishes such as couscous and brik while listening to the sounds of the city come alive at night. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the coastal promenade, feeling the gentle sea breeze as you reflect on your day.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to Sousse’s beautiful beaches. Spend the morning soaking up the sun on the soft sands, or plunge into the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim. For the adventurous, try your hand at jet skiing or parasailing, enjoying the thrill of water sports along the Mediterranean coast.
After a morning of fun in the sun, have lunch at one of the beachside restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or explore the nearby Port El Kantaoui, a charming marina filled with shops and cafes. Take a stroll along the marina, watching the boats and soaking in the picturesque views.
As dusk approaches, return to Sousse and prepare for a night of entertainment. Consider visiting a local café for mint tea and pastries, or enjoy a traditional music performance at one of the cultural venues. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, where the moonlight dances on the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕(Coffee or tea) at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥗Meal for two in a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Beautiful beaches and coastal views
- Affordable dining and lodging
- Warm, welcoming culture
- Seasonal crowds in summer
- Some English not widely spoken outside tourist zones
- Heat in peak summer can be intense
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlek" - Please
- "Kam athaman haadha?" - How much is this?
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Sousse
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic fortress perched above the medina with dramatic sea views and ancient battlements.
A maze of white-washed walls, arches, and craft stalls ideal for atmospheric street photography.
Palm-lined waterfront with long stretches of sand and sunset silhouettes.
Harbor reflections, luxury yachts, and terraces perfect for golden-hour shots.
Food in Sousse
Sousse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin pastry crisp filled with egg (and sometimes tuna) and herbs, fried until golden.
Must-Try!
A warm chickpea soup spiked with harissa and served with bread; hearty and satisfying.
Tomato-based stew with merguez sausage and eggs, often shared as a communal dish.
Steamed grain with vegetables, chickpeas, and savory broths; a staple across Tunisia.
Grilled pepper, tomato, and onion salad, usually dressed with olive oil and spices.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional stalls selling spices, olives, harissa, breads, pastries, and sweets in a lively maze.
Fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, and quick bites from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques; ask before photographing people.
A handshake is common among acquaintances; use the right hand for greetings and giving items.
Keep displays discreet outside tourist zones and beaches.
Safety
Tipping in Sousse
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5–10% is common if service charge isn’t included. Taxis and hotel staff often appreciate small tips; round up fares when convenient.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming scenery make it ideal for walking and archaeology visits.
Hot and sunny with busy beaches; hydrate, plan shade-heavy activities, and enjoy water sports early or late in the day.
Warm seas and thinning crowds; excellent for outdoor coastal strolls and cultural sites.
Milder daytime temps with occasional rain; great for museum visits and fewer crowds.
Sousse at Night
Hiking in Sousse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, scenic coastal path ideal for easy hikes and sunset views.
Moderate trails through olive groves and hilly terrain within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Sousse by plane.
Closest airport to Sousse, about 20-25 km south, with frequent connections to Europe.
Major international hub about 160 km northwest, accessible by train, bus, or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population with a mix of urban and rural residents.
European retirees and tourists who spend extended periods in Sousse.
A vibrant, youthful demographic around universities and coastal towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; many locals follow domestic leagues and national teams.
Strong presence in local clubs and schools.
Popular at beaches and marina areas.
Port El-Kantaoui Golf Course and nearby greens attract visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sousse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be prepared without meat; look for mezze plates, vegetable couscous, lentil soup, and salads; ask for no harissa if sensitive.