THINGS TO DO IN Hammamet: 2-DAY ITINERARY

Often referred to as the St Tropez of Tunisia, Hammamet is the most visited tourist resort in the country. This beautiful coastal town is known for its sandy beaches, luxurious 5-star resorts, and Punic ruins and Roman remains.

The city consists of three main areas. There is a colourful historical medina with a 13th-century fort, a modern resort development with malls, theme parks, and casinos called Yasmine Hammamet, and Hammamet Sud which is home to attractions like the Pupput Ruins and the Sebastian Villa.

Whether you wish to explore the historical medina and enjoy majestic views of the Mediterranean Sea from the fortress or you prefer the modern part of Hammamet where the beach is lined with all-inclusive hotels, Hammamet offers something for every traveller.

To help you organise your vacation in Hammamet, we’ve put together this 2-day itinerary that includes some of the finest tourist attractions in the city, as well as tips on where to stay and where to eat.

Day 1

Morning: Hammamet Medina

We begin the morning walk in the old part of the city. A visit to the historical medina of Hammamet feels like stepping back in time when the city was nothing more than a small fishing village. Get lost in a labyrinth of narrow alleys dotted with whitewashed houses and blue windows. This 13th-century medina is also home to colourful markets (souks) where you can practice your haggling skills and purchase spices, textiles, local crafts, souvenirs, and much more.

Dar Khadija Museum

Within the medina, you will find this traditional Arab House transformed into a superb museum. Spread across three floors, the Dar Khadija Museum is a place where travellers can learn about the history of the city from ancient Roman times and the Turkish invasion to when the city was finally set free. Inside the museum, there are a lot of interesting historical artifacts as well as displays of Tunisian life. Why the museum is called Khadija? Apparently, it has been named after the owner’s mother.

Grand Mosque of Hammamet

End your morning walk with a visit to one of the most impressive historical buildings in Hammamet, the Grand Mosque. Built in the 15th century, the mosque was renovated about 50 years ago and is quite small compared to other mosques in the region. Inside, you will find a small prayer room, a library area, and plenty of beautiful decorations. The Mosque has a wonderful setting with the fort and walls surrounding it.

Day 1, morning - hammamet Tour Map

Afternoon: Mermaids of Hammamet

Our afternoon walking itinerary is all about the town’s Kasbah. The first stop is the lovely statue of the Three Mermaids located on a roundabout, just a stone’s throw from the medina ramparts. What’s interesting about the statue is that depending on the season, you can discover the Mermaids of Hammamet painted in different colours. They can be green or have celebratory azure blue clothes and a golden crown.

Café Sidi Bou Hdid

You are now in front of the most popular café in Hammamet, the legendary Café Sidi Bou Hdid. You can’t beat the location of this place. Overlooking the bay of Hammamet, this cute cafe is located right on the edge of the seaside promenade and is adjacent to the Kasbah Fortress. Most people visit Café Sidi Bou Hdid for the spectacular sunset views. As for the food menu, you can choose between toast, salads, and juices.

Hammamet Kasbah

With its crumbling ramparts and robust walls, the Kasbah of Hammamet is the main tourist site in the old part of the city. It dates back to the 15th century and was built to defend the city from Spanish Invaders. Today, you can visit the remains of the fortress and see watchtowers and ramparts that offer panoramic views of the coastline and the picturesque harbour in Hammamet.

Plage Hammamet

End your day at this small beach located on the doorstep of the medina. You will notice a fleet of colourful boats that occupy the beach. Plage Hammamet is probably not the most popular beach in Hammamet, but its proximity to the old town makes it a popular place to visit and take pictures. There are a few restaurants and bars nearby where you can sit down and watch the sun set over the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 1, afternoon - hammamet Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Marina Yasmine Hammamet

Stretching for miles along the coastline, the Yasmin Hammemet area is located much further south than the main centre. Your first stop in the morning is the Hammamet Yasmine Marina, a picturesque port area lined with touristy pirate boats that offer excursions and sailboats available to hire for fishing trips. The marina is a really nice place for a stroll. Along the way, you will come across numerous shops, bars, and restaurants. Keep in mind that the majority of the restaurants and bars around the perimeter of the marina do not serve alcohol.

Medina Mediterranea

An area designed for tourists, Medina Mediterranea is a modern resort development meant to recreate a traditional medina in Tunis. Inside of this giant resort complex, you will find big resorts, hotels, entertainment centres, shopping malls with luxurious boutiques, casinos, and a fabulous theme park. You will need at least 4 hours to explore Medina Mediterranea.

Carthageland

Yasmine Hammamet is also home to Tunisia's biggest amusement park, Carthageland. Located south of Medina Mediterranea, the immaculately designed family-friendly theme park offers fun for both kids and adults. Visitors can enjoy water slides at Aqualand, hop on the iconic King Kong Rollercoaster, attend elaborate shows, and watch movies at the 5D cinema. For younger children, there is an area with soft-play zones and gentle rides.

Day 2, morning - hammamet Tour Map

Afternoon: Palais des 1001 nuits (1001 Nights Museum)

The afternoon walk is for all you museum lovers visiting Hammamet. Your first stop is Palais des 1001 nuits, a museum that takes you back to the time when the Ottoman Empire ruled Tunisia. Located in Yasmine Hammamet, the museum shows reconstructions of paintings and original accessories of everyday life in the Sultan’s Palace. The tour is quite entertaining and informative. Visitors mention that the museum guide is very professional and provides fun explanations of the artwork. You can even dress up in a sultan's costume.

Musée des religions

Located within Yasmine Hammamet, this small museum tells the story of different religions and civilizations in Tunisia. There are three areas inside of Musée des religions including a Christian area, a space dedicated to Islam, and a Jewish sector. The guide, Abdelkader will tell you everything there is to know about the museum’s models and manuscripts.

Yasmine Hammamet Beach

One of the country’s most picturesque shorelines, Yasmine Hammamet Beach is the main reason why tourists visit this beautiful coastal city. Whether you wish to stroll along the promenade, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoy water activities like windsurfing and kayaking, there is no shortage of fun things to do at this 14-kilometer long beach with golden sands.

Day 2, afternoon - hammamet Tour Map

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Other things to see in Hammamet

• Dar Sebastien - International Cultural Centre of Hammamet: Home to a Romanian architect George Sebastian, this whitewashed villa from the 1920’s is probably one of the most beautiful buildings in all of Hammamet. Nowadays, the elegant mansion serves as an international cultural centre with a diverse program including concerts, exhibitions, and other events. Explore the tranquil gardens and elegant interiors packed with antiques.

• The archaeological site of Pupput: Located in the middle between the historical centre and Yasmine Hammamet, the Pupput ruins are an archaeological site dating back to the 1st century AD. Discover remains of public baths, tombs, and residential houses from the Byzantine and Roman eras, and check out the remaining ornate mosaic floors. You’ll need to take a taxi to get to the Archaeological site of Pupput.

• Hammamet Pirate Ship: Wish to experience the coastal city of Hammamet from a different perspective? Hop on the Hammamet Pirate Ship at the harbour of Yassmine Hammemmat and enjoy an unforgettable 4-hour cruise. Pirate Willy and the crew entertain visitors with their acrobatic performances. There is lots of dancing and loud music on the ship, as well as refreshing drinks and sweets that you can get from the snack bar. Guests will have a chance to dive off the ship and swim in the blue Mediterranean Sea. We have to mention that no alcohol is served on this cruise from Yassmine Hammemmat to the harbour of Nabul.

• Horseback Riding (Club Equus Hammamet): Sami is a wonderful guide and his Club Equus Hammamet offers horseback riding tours in Hammamet. If you are a beginner, Sami will teach you the basic techniques of trotting and explain everything there is to know about horse riding. You can either go horseback riding on the beach or head out to the mountains to ride horses.

• Bio Azur Thalasso: With majestic views of the blue Mediterranean Sea, this thalassotherapy centre in Hammamet offers a variety of spa courses. Guests have access to different facilities including a large fitness room, an Aquatonic pool with heated seawater, a jacuzzi, and a relaxation section. We recommend the Thalgo facial massage, as well as the Oriental massage with essential oils. Bio Azur Thalasso also offers a lovely smoothie bar and complimentary herbal tea.

• Glamour Thalasso & SPA: A modern spa centre with a heated sweater therapy pool, an aquagym, and a tea room, Glamour Thalasso & SPA offers a wide range of massages (Thai massage, Tonic massage, Hot Stone therapy), body wraps, medical treatments, and beauty services. Enjoy everything from well-being programs to medical pedicures, light leg treatments, and complimentary herbal tea. If you are staying outside the city, the spa centre offers a free transfer service.

• Go Scuba Diving: Thanks to its huge bay, the city of Hammamet is an ideal destination for all kinds of watersports including scuba diving. The best place to try it is the Scuba Diving Centre Yasmine Hammamet. They offer all types of diving trips for experienced and first time divers.

• Paddle Surf: Another fun water activity to try while vacationing in Hammamet is paddle surf. We recommend Paddle Komsa Hammamet, a local paddleboarding centre with a licensed stand-up paddle instructor and state-of-the-art equipment. The best way to get in touch with Komsa Hammamet is through their Instagram page.

Day trips from Hammamet

• Nabeul: Cap Bon Peninsula's largest town, Nabeul is located just 10 kilometers from Hammamet. Culture vultures can visit Nabeul's Archaeological Museum to see exhibits of Punic and Roman artifacts. For locally made ceramics, textiles, and a variety of spices, don’t miss the city’s Friday Market. Nabeul’s famous pottery with its exhibitions of contemporary ceramics is also worth checking out.

• Carthage Ruins: How about a day trip to the most important archaeological site in Tunis? Located 80 kilometers from Hammamet, the city of Carthage is home to famous ancient ruins ranging from Punic ports and Roman baths to well-preserved Roman villas and a giant amphitheater. The best option is to purchase a multi-entry ticket and explore all the sites in one day.
  

• Boukornine National Park: Nature lovers will want to go to this small national park known for its rocky hills and green valleys. Located between the capital of Tunisia and Hammamet, Boukornine National Park is a popular destination for bird watching and hiking. It is also home to a variety of plant species and animals. For majestic views of the Gulf of Tunis, hike to the top of Jebel Boukornine mountain.

• The Hot Springs of Korbous: Go on a day trip to the small town of Korbous which is known for its therapeutic hot springs. Nestled in the mountain 70 kilometers from Hammamet, Korbous is a popular destination for wellness travellers. As you probably know, hot springs are known to have healing powers and can help with health problems like arthritis and rheumatism. Once you check out the natural spas in Korbous, drive to the nearby Hamma el Atrous Springs for more hot springs.

• Sousse: A beautiful seaside city with a UNESCO-listed medina, Sousse makes for an awesome day trip from Hammamet. You can explore the well-preserved ramparts, discover one of the largest collections of Roman mosaics in Africa, and visit a vibrant marina packed with entertainment venues. It takes about an hour to get from Hammamet to Sousse.

• El Jem Amphitheater: No visit to Tunisia is complete without visiting its most famous historical attraction, El Jem. Located approximately 150 kilometers from Hammamet, this golden-stoned amphitheater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that used to accommodate over 30,000 spectators. Explore the underground passageways below the arena and see where hungry animals and gladiators fought. If you have time to spare, head out to the nearby Jem Archaeological Museum which houses an amazing collection of well-preserved Roman-era mosaics and other artifacts ranging from oil lamps and pots to coins.

• Sidi Bou Said: Nestled on a steep cliff that offers majestic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Sidi Bou Said is a charming village famed for its picturesque white-washed houses with blue windows, doors, and roofs. Often compared to Santorini in Greece, Sidi Bou Said was actually named the 3rd most beautiful small town in the world by Time Out Magazine in 2024. See a variety of plants and trees at the Mediterranean Garden, pay a visit to the Dar El Annabi museum, and try a fried doughnut snack topped with sugar called bambolooni from one of the street food vendors in the village. Sid Bou Said is located 80 kilometers from Hammamet.

• Zaghouan: Located about 50 kilometers from Hammamet, this small town is famed for its hiking trails with beautiful nature and a magnificent Roman structure. Explore the narrow streets of the charming old quarter and visit small shops that sell the popular kaak warqa cake. The biggest attraction here is the ancient Water Temple, a source of water for the ancient city of Carthage. Another must-visit attraction is the Great Mosque of Zaghouan. Once you get hungry, go to Espace de Loisirs La Grotte, a restaurant situated inside a cave that offers the most delicious Tunisian brik.

• Oudhna: Best known for its collection of Roman ruins, the village of Oudhna is located 65 kilometers from Hammamet. Visit the well-preserved archaeological site which is home to an amphitheater with underground tunnels, a temple/forum with a couple of rooms dedicated to Roman goods, and 2 Roman public baths decorated with beautiful mosaics.

• Takrouna: Nestled on a hilltop, this ancient Berber village is a perfect day trip for all you culture vultures and history buffs. Go to the upper part of the village to enjoy panoramic views of the rugged hills and admire the beauty of empty buildings in the lower half of Takrouna. It will take you about 50 minutes by car to get from Hammamet to Takrouna.

Best golf courses in Hammamet

• Citrus Golf Club: If you wish to play golf while staying in Hammamet, go to the fabulous Citrus Golf Club. Located on the outskirts of the city and surrounded by a beautiful pine forest, this golf club boasts 2 golf courses. There is Les Oliviers, a course known for its wide fairways. The other course is called La Foret which is a lot easier and features more spacious fairways.

Things to do with kids in Hammamet

• Friguia Park: Visit this lovely animal park with your kids to see animals from different continents. Friguia Park is home to tigers, flamingos, lions, lemurs, cheetahs, and many other animal species. What we like most about the park is the animals live in large enclosures and are well taken care of. There are also dolphin shows to enjoy, as well as a cool souvenir shop.

• Costa Mall: Spread across 2 floors, Costa Mall is one of the largest shopping centres in the country. Expect to find a wide range of both local and international shops like Zara and Gucci. From decorative handcrafts and cosmetics to clothing and souvenirs, there is plenty to choose from at the Costa Mall. Your kids can get snacks and refreshing drinks at the cute on-site café.

• Mickey & Mike Park: An ideal place to spend time with the little ones, this amusement park offers many cool attractions such as a boating pool, racing tracks, trampolines, and a billiards room. The park is located in Yasmine Hammamet and has a cafeteria and an ice cream parlor.

• Water Sports: There is no shortage of watersports to enjoy in the coastal town of Hammamet, from scuba diving and water skiing to paddle boarding. Base Nautique N°25 is the best local company for watersports in Hammamet. Take your kids to this well-equipped nautical base that offers rides on a banana boat, parachute, jet ski, and other water activities.

• Pottery Painting: Hammamet and its neighboring town of Nabeul are famous for the ancient Tunisian art of ceramics. If you are looking for a family-friendly activity in Hammamet, book a pottery painting class with Pottery Maha Mami. The best way to reach them is via their Facebook page.

Where to eat in Hammamet

• Le Barberousse: Book a table at the best beachfront seafood restaurant in Hammamet. From avocado and small baby shrimp appetiser to calamari, Le Barberousse offers an extensive seafood menu. The open-plan kitchen allows guests to see chefs in action. In addition to seafood delicacies, the restaurant offers a nice selection of wines, beers, and cocktails.

• La Bella Marina: Both meat and fish lovers can dine at this popular restaurant in Hammamet. If you want seafood and fish, go for grilled octopus or order the signature Mediterranean lobster spaghetti. If you are craving some high-quality meat dishes, we recommend the grilled steak that is served with peppercorn sauce, French fries, and veggies. If you have room left for dessert, order their chocolate fondant.

• Canari Hammamet: For desserts, stop by this casual restaurant in Hammamet. They do ice creams, desserts, freshly squeezed juices, milkshakes, and tasty coffee. Canari Hammamet is also a popular place to have breakfast with options like tacos and savory crepes.

• Movida Club Ristorante: An Italian restaurant in the heart of the city, Movida Club Ristorante is all about Sicilian cuisine. The food menu is fabulous with options such as seafood pasta, truffle ravioli, and Sicilian swordfish. You can also order popular dishes from Sicily including the famous arancine and cannoli. For dessert, get a slice of the black cherry tiramisu.

• Restaurant lella Fatma: Facing the beach, lella Fatma is where you can order the most delicious Couchu de agneau. For those who don’t know, it is a delicious lamb dish which is served with a side of vegetables. The restaurant is also known for its seafood platter and veggie couscous.

Where to stay in Hammamet

• La Badira: Wish to stay at the most glamorous hotel in Hammamet? Book your stay in La Badira, an adults-only hotel located right on the beach. There are 130 beautifully designed suites to choose from and some of them come with a private pool. For wellness treatments, there is the on-site Spa By Clarins that offers everything from massages with essential oils and a hammam to an infrared sauna and treatments in hot salt water. Once you get hungry, go to one of the hotel’s restaurants and try delicacies such as forest risotto, stewed lamb, and shrimp ravioli.

• Résidence Neffati: This place is one of the newest additions to the accommodation scene in Hammamet. Résidence Neffati is a stylish bed and breakfast property with a lovely balcony, a small swimming pool, and just 14 apartments. This private residence owned by the friendly Neffati family is ideal for people who are not fans of giant resorts. Some of the best beaches in the city are just a short walk away from this guesthouse.

• Les Orangers Garden Villas & Bungalows: An all-inclusive resort with easy access to the beach, Les Orangers Garden Villas & Bungalows is famed for its majestic gardens with palm and orange trees and spacious villas and bungalows designed for families on vacation. Some villas come with private swimming pools. Dining options here are plentiful, as there are 5 restaurants to choose from. The Roof offers a selection of tapas and cocktails, while El Mundo is the main restaurant that focuses on international cuisine.

• Hôtel Royal Azur Thalassa: Another 5-star beachfront property, Hôtel Royal Azur Thalassa has everything needed for a memorable vacation in Hammamet. Go for a dip in the main infinity swimming pool, grab a refreshing drink from the pool bar, or enjoy delicious food at one of the 4 on-site restaurants. How about waking up to the sounds of waves? We recommend getting one of the beachfront bungalows that are located just a few meters from the hotel’s private beach.

• Dar Hammamet Guest House: You will find this traditional Tunisian house right in the heart of the medina. It is a peaceful accommodation with a beautiful courtyard, airy and modern rooms, and a sauna with a hammam where you can relax after a full day of sightseeing in Hammamet. The manager, Marwa, is super friendly and prepares the most delicious breakfast ever. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for some spectacular views of the medina.

• TUI MAGIC LIFE Africana: Travellers visiting Hammamet can book a room at the 5-star TUI MAGIC LIFE Africana. This stylish hotel is situated next to the beach, has 6 swimming pools, and offers a wide range of facilities including a tennis court, fitness centre, and a children’s playground. In the evening, the hotel organises various events ranging from themed parties to Broadway-style performances and film screenings.

• Iberostar Averroes: Known for its lush gardens, Iberoes Averroes is a 4-star resort nestled on a private stretch of sand. Guests like the outdoor pool and add how the spa facilities with massages and a Turkish bath are magnificent. The hotel also boasts a tennis court and a few restaurants. We recommend the Italian-themed main restaurant that offers an extensive a la carte menu. If you wish to work out, there is a state-of-the-art fitness room.

• Hôtel Khella: Located in a residential district in the centre of Hammamet, Hotel Khella is a perfect place to stay for business travellers visiting the city. Stay in one of the 15 air-conditioned rooms with elegant furniture and en-suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. The hotel also offers a pillow menu and has a lounge bar where you get snacks and refreshing drinks. A buffet breakfast served each morning is included in the price of your stay.

• Villa Phoenicia: Run by an Italian couple from Milan, this villa is probably one of the most beautiful rentals in Hammamet. Villa Phoenicia boasts a majestic courtyard adorned with flowers, spacious rooms furnished with Arabic furniture, and a rooftop terrace with magnificent views of the city. There are lots of different seating areas to relax in including the shared living room with a fireplace. Breakfast is prepared lovingly with fresh, local ingredients.

Best time to visit Hammamet

With countless resorts and 5-star hotels, Hammamet is a popular summer destination. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the peak season here is during the summer months between June and September. If you don’t mind the heat and the large number of tourists, visit Hammamet in summer. Travellers who want to avoid the crowds and get better deals on flights and accommodation can plan their trip during the shoulder season in May and September when the weather is still quite okay.

Hammamet Festivals

• Hammamet International Festival: One of Tunisia’s most vibrant events of the year, the Hammamet International Festival celebrates human creativity and brings together talented artists from the cinema, dance, theatre, and music industries. Held every year in July, the festival is actually the oldest in the city dating back to the 1960s. In 2024, artists like Olfa Ben Romdhane, Ranine Chaar, Labess, and Tomato performed at the festival.

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