Located about 140 km south of Tunis, this ancient city is one of Tunisia's most popular destinations—for good reason.
With its UNESCO-listed Medina, sun-kissed beaches, and a rich heritage spanning Phoenician, Roman, and Islamic civilizations, Sousse offers an unforgettable experience for both history lovers and beachgoers.
Founded in the 9th century BC by the Phoenicians and later thriving under Roman rule as Hadrumetum, Sousse flourished under Islamic dynasties, becoming a fortified port city of strategic importance. This legacy is visible in every corner, especially in the old city (Medina).
Sousse’s Medina is one of the best-preserved in North Africa. Walking through its gates is like stepping into a living museum, where the past meets daily life.
The Great Mosque (9th century): A fortress-like structure with austere beauty and a tranquil ambiance.
The Ribat of Sousse: A well-preserved Islamic fortress built in the 8th century with a watchtower that offers panoramic views of the Medina and the sea.
Souks: Explore Souk El Blaghgia for leather shoes, Souk El Kmach for fabrics, and many stalls selling spices, ceramics, and traditional crafts.
Dar Essid Museum: A beautiful house-museum showing how a wealthy Sousse family lived during the Ottoman period.
Strolling through the Medina is more than sightseeing—it's a journey through centuries.
Sousse boasts long stretches of golden-sand beaches and turquoise waters that attract visitors from around the world.
Boujaafar Beach: Located near the city center, this is the most famous urban beach with parasols, cafés, and water activities.
Kantaoui Beach: A quieter, family-friendly spot near the marina.
Las Vegas Beach: Great for jet-skiing, paddleboarding, or just relaxing.
The warm Mediterranean climate and gentle waves make Sousse perfect for swimming and sunbathing from April to October.
Just 10 km north of Sousse lies Port El Kantaoui, a purpose-built resort modeled after an Andalusian village. With its marina, luxury hotels, yacht clubs, and golf course, it’s a haven for those seeking comfort, leisure, and style.
Walk along the marina promenade and admire the yachts.
Try seafood restaurants and charming cafés with sea views.
Visit the Acqua Palace water park (perfect for kids and families).
Enjoy an afternoon of golf or horse riding.
This area is particularly ideal for couples and families looking for a modern, relaxing experience close to the historic city.
Housed in the Kasbah (fortress) of the Medina, this museum contains one of the best Roman mosaic collections in North Africa, rivaled only by the Bardo Museum in Tunis.
Highlights:
The Poseidon mosaic.
Punic, Roman, and early Christian artifacts.
Breathtaking view of the city from the fortress tower.
You can also find artisan workshops producing:
Kilim carpets and Berber rugs
Hand-painted ceramics
Silver jewelry and metalwork
Don’t hesitate to haggle—it’s part of the fun!
Sousse is a great place to experience authentic Tunisian cuisine. Local specialties reflect both coastal and Berber influences.
Couscous au poisson: Steamed semolina with fish and vegetables.
Ojja: A spicy dish of eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and merguez sausage.
Mechouia Salad: Grilled peppers, tomatoes, and onions topped with tuna and eggs.
Makroud: Sweet semolina cakes stuffed with dates and soaked in honey.
Restaurant du Peuple: A classic choice near the Medina for traditional plates.
Le QG: Trendy and modern with Tunisian-European fusion cuisine.
Escargot Restaurant: Mediterranean dishes with seafood specialties.
Neptunia Beach Restaurant (Kantaoui): Ideal for seaside dining.
Bring a piece of Sousse home with you! Some of the best items to buy:
Handmade ceramics
Olive wood kitchenware
Tunisian spices (especially harissa and ras el hanout)
Traditional fouta towels and linens
Look out for local markets outside the Medina, especially the Sunday market in Khezama.
Sousse has a lively nightlife scene, especially during summer:
Clubs and bars in Khezama and Kantaoui.
Beach parties and live DJ events.
Cultural festivals, including International Festival of Sousse (July–August), featuring music, dance, and theater.
For a more relaxed evening, take a walk along the Corniche and enjoy a mint tea or Arabic coffee as the sun sets.
Mövenpick Resort & Marine Spa
Marhaba Palace
Iberostar Diar El Andalous
Hotel Marhaba Beach
Tej Marhaba Hotel
Hotel Paris Sousse
Hotel Soussana
Best Time to Visit: May to October for beach weather; spring and autumn for cooler temperatures.
Currency: Tunisian Dinar (TND)
Language: Arabic & French; English spoken in tourist areas.
Transport: Taxis are affordable. Use louages (shared taxis) for travel to nearby cities like Monastir or Kairouan.
Monastir: A charming coastal city with a beautiful Ribat and mausoleum of President Habib Bourguiba.
Kairouan: The 4th holiest city in Islam and home to the Great Mosque of Uqba.
El Jem: A Roman amphitheater almost as grand as Rome’s Colosseum.
Sousse offers an irresistible mix of history, relaxation, and adventure. It’s a city where you can:
Wander ancient walls and mosaics in the morning,
Bask under the sun on a golden beach in the afternoon,
Enjoy traditional Tunisian dishes by candlelight in the evening.
Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Sousse has something for every kind of explorer.
🌴 Sousse is not just a place you visit—it's a place you feel.
