THINGS TO DO IN mahdia: 2-DAY ITINERARY

Once the capital of the Fatimid Dynasty and an ancient Carthaginian trading post, the coastal town of Mahdia in Tunisia is a place steeped in history. You can still see traces of its glorious past in the art of silk weaving and in the colorful old town which is definitely more residential than other medinas in the country.

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from Skifa el Kahla, get lost in the medieval medina admire the beauty of its whitewashed houses and cafés, and explore the picturesque old harbor area.

Mahdia is also a popular seaside resort town packed with all-inclusive beachfront resorts. Most of these luxurious resorts can be found on the northern side of the city.

To help you plan your vacation in Mahdia, we’ve put together this 2-day travel itinerary that offers a list of the best things to do, as well as a few recommendations on where to eat and where to stay. You will also find a few suggestions for day trips.

Day 1

Morning: Medina of Mahdia

Mahdia's medina (old town) is where we begin our morning walk. With its cobblestone alleys lined with whitewashed houses and cute cafes, it is the most beautiful part of the city. Not as touristy as other medinas in Tunisia, the old town of Mahdia is a traditional neighborhood where locals still live. Visit the shops and markets that sell everything from ceramics and spices to clothes and other handmade products. If you are looking for transportation to tourist attractions outside the city gates, the best place to find a taxi is at the big roundabout.

Skifa el Kahla (Black Gate)

It’s hard to miss the huge black gate at the entrance to the medina in Mahdia. Dating back to the 10th century, the fortified city gate is the most impressive monument in the city. The views of the city from the rooftop of the mighty Skifa el Kahla are spectacular.

Mahdia Museum

A stone’s throw from the Black Gate you will find a small two-story museum. The Tunisian Archeology and Heritage Museum is home to objects from Punic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic times. You will have a chance to see a wide range of mosaics, a section dedicated to traditional female costumes, old pottery, scales made from cardboard, and other historical items from Mahdia.

Municipal Market of Mahdia

Visit this covered market hall in the city center that has a large selection of fish, seafood, meat, fruit, and vegetables on offer. Prices are slightly cheaper than in supermarkets in Mahdia. There are other cool markets in the medina, especially the massive Mahdia Friday Market which lasts from early morning to 2 pm. The Friday Market is packed with vendors selling clothes, food, kitchen supplies, souvenirs, and much more.

Day 1, morning - mahdia Tour Map

Afternoon: Statue Taher Sfar

You are in front of a statue of a man who is an important figure in Tunisian history. Tahar Sfar was a Tunisian politician who ran campaigns for collaboration between the East and the West. This important monument is located inside the public gardens of the Medina.

Great Fatimid Mosque

One of the city’s cultural landmarks, the Great Mosque was built by the town’s founder, Obeid Allah al-Mahdi. With a beautiful dome and elegant arches, this key religious spot in the city is an architectural masterpiece. What makes the Great Fatimid Mosque is that it has no minaret and actually looks a bit like a fortress. Visit the mosque during prayer times.

Place du Caire

Walk towards a picturesque plaza in the center of Mehdia. Nestled under densely grown treetops and packed with outdoor cafes and shops, Place du Caire is a great place to watch the daily life go by. You can admire the beauty of historical Mahdist buildings and purchase rugs and ceramics at one of the nearby shops.

Café El Médina

Your last stop in the afternoon is this charming café with traditional Tunisian décor and atmosphere. Situated over 3 floors in an old Arabic-style building, Café El Médina has both indoor and outdoor seating. With ceramic pots, wooden furniture, and lovely decorations with Tunisian motifs hanging on the walls, the interior looks spectacular. The café also has one of the most beautiful outdoor terraces in Mahdia. In addition to coffee, juices, and Tunisian tea, the café offers a menu full of Mediterranean and Tunisian dishes including grilled fish, brik, pizza, and sandwiches.

Day 1, afternoon - mahdia Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Café Sidi Salem Elghar

Sit down for coffee or tea and breakfast at this popular café-restaurant overlooking a small cove. Located on a cliff facing the Mediterranean Sea, Café Sidi Salem Elghar is known for its panoramic views and delicious food. The café offers a wide range of breakfast foods, as well as grilled fish, pizza, meat, and salads. Keep in mind that the café tends to be crowded during summer and weekends.

Borj el Kebir

You are now in front of the old fortress in Magdia. Built in the 16th century, the imposing tower sits on the peninsula's highest point. You will come across a picturesque courtyard that houses a small mosque. However, the main attraction here is the top of the fort from where you can enjoy majestic views of the city and the old harbor area.

Vieux port de Mahdia

It will take you just a few minutes to get from the fortress to the ancient harbor of Mahdia. Vieux Port de Mahdia used to be the main port of the city during the Fatimide period and could accommodate over 30 big boats. Nowadays, the port is home to a few fishing boats and little remains of the ancient port. Still, it’s a nice walk to visit and explore the ruins of the ancient port.

Day 2, morning - mahdia Tour Map

Afternoon: Mahdia Marin Cemetery

Not many cemeteries in the world are as beautiful as Mahdia Marin Cemetery. It is a place where Tunisian tombs with Arabic cravings overlook the Mediterranean Sea. The views from this marine cemetery are truly incredible.

Lighthouse Mahdia

Often referred to as the Lighthouse of the Cape of Africa, this 15-meter-high hexagonal tower is located on the highest point of the city over the naval cemetery. You can walk around the lighthouse and take pictures, but it is not allowed to go to the grounds of the lighthouse.

Cap Africa Mahdia

Your last stop in the afternoon is the very tip of the Mahdia peninsula. Visitors can explore the nearby crumbling ruins and visit a small beach located close to this observation deck. Cap Africa Mahdia is also a perfect spot to enjoy sunset views.

Day 2, afternoon - mahdia Tour Map

Other things to see in Mahdia

• Plage de Corniche Mahdia: We should probably mention that you won’t find a “real” beach in the historic center of Mahdia. To reach Plage de Corniche, a beach you’ve probably seen in all of the beautiful photographs of the Mahdia, you simply need to follow the trail on the northern side of the city until you reach an area packed with all-inclusive resorts and hotels. Expect to find a gorgeous long strip of white sand with crystal-clear waters. While some parts of Plage de Corniche Mahdia are open to everyone, certain areas are occupied by those big resorts that we’ve mentioned. There are plentiful cafés and restaurants along the beach road.

• Corniche Garden: If you wish to hide from the sun, visit this beautiful garden surrounded by shady trees. Corniche Garden is a lovely park located close to the promenade and Plage de Corniche Mahdia. There are a few benches within the park where you can sit down and enjoy the views of the palm trees and the Mediterranean Sea. An interesting fact is that Corniche Garden is home to hundreds of cats.

• I Love Mahdia Sign: Just about every town in the country has an “I love…” sign, and Mahdia is no exception. Located at the beginning of the seafront promenade which connects the old town with the tourist zone, it is a place where many people stop to take a souvenir photo.

• Hammam El Medina: The best spot in Mahdia for a memorable spa experience is Hammam El Medina. The authentic historic hammam is frequented by both locals and tourists. Their most popular package includes a visit to the sauna, scrub, menthol clay mask treatment, and a 20-minute massage. You will need to bring your own swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops when visiting Hammam El Medina.

• Pirate Ship Tour Delphine: To experience the city from a different perspective, book this 2-hour Pirate Ship Tour in Mahdia with lunch included. The boat excursion also includes a stop for swimming, as well as a fish barbecue and refreshments. The tour usually starts in the morning around 8 am and pick-up to and from your hotel can be arranged.

• Village Bedouin: This touristy farm is probably the best place to discover North Africa’s Bedouin culture. Located close to the all-inclusive resorts, the restored village offers everything from learning how to bake bread in a traditional oven and listening to folkloric music to riding camels and trying traditional foods. There is a souvenir shop where you can purchase home decorations, traditional clothing, olive oil, and beauty products.

Day trips from Mahdia

• El Jem Amphitheater: Only 43 kilometers from the coastal town of Mahdia, the El Jem Amphitheater is a popular day trip excursion. Known for its grandiose architecture, the amphitheater El Jem is the most famous Roman ruin in this part of the world. The coliseum is well-preserved and has provided seating for more than 30,000 spectators. Travellers can also visit the nearby El Jem Archaeological Museum to see an excellent collection of Roman-era mosaics and other artifacts (oil lamps, pots, and coins).

• Sousse: Both a major historical city and a popular tourist resort, Sousse is the third-largest city in Tunisia. You can visit one of the most photogenic medinas in the country and explore its colorful alleyways and souk streets. Feel free to spend an hour or two at the famous Dar Essid Museum, enjoy magnificent views from the Ribat, and unwind with a cup of tea at Dar Lella Khadija. The drive from Mahdia to Sousse is 1 hour and 20 minutes long.

• Monastir: A coastal city famed for its beautiful fortress, picturesque beaches, and the opulent Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, Monastir is located just 48 kilometers from Mahdia. You can wander around the marina, see traditional fabrics at the Museum of Ribat, and visit the picturesque Qaraiya Beach. Don’t miss the opulent Presidential Palace of Bourguiba.

• Sfax: A major port town and the beating heart of the country’s economy, Sfax is the second-largest city in Tunisia. There is a relatively small medina with alleys of traditional artisan workshops and souks, a new town district where you can experience the city’s nightlife and café culture, and the impressive Sfax Grand Mosque with a graceful minaret. Travel time from Mahdia to Sfax by car is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Things to do with kids in Mahdia

• RAYAR Aqua Park Mahdia: Located within the 4-star Mahdia Beach & Aqua Park hotel, RAYAR Aqua Park Mahdia is one of the largest aqua parks in the country. It offers a wide range of water attractions for adults and children. From a wave pool and a lazy river to a pirate ship with 7 slides, there is definitely something for everyone. Stay at the hotel or purchase a day pass to enter tre RAYAR Aqua Park Mahdia.

• Bowling Mahdia: Take your kids to this wonderful bowling alley located between the old town and the tourist resort area. Bowling Mahdia offers well-maintained equipment, 6 competition tracks, an easy-to-use scoring system, and a bar/restaurant with a terrace.

• Subway Diving Center Mahdia: If you wish to go diving, we recommend booking a tour with the Subway Diving Center Mahdia. This Tunisian/German Company is led by professional trainers who will take you with a speedboat to one of the dive sites. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or an experienced diver, the instructors will explain everything to you and your kids. The dive site is excellent and filled with rock formations, caves, and a variety of marine life ranging from octopus and coral fish to sea urchins. Equipment for diving is included in the price and they also offer pick-up from your hotel.

• Royal ATV Quad Tours Mahdia: How about a 2-hour trip on quad bikes together with your children? Participants will have an opportunity to ride along the sandy beaches and the salt lake all the way to the village of Bekalta. The staff is professional and takes breaks to snap photos of you on quad bikes. For protection from the sand, it is recommended to bring a small scarf and sunglasses. If you don’t have these accessories, the staff sells them for a small fee.

Where to eat in Mahdia

• Le Lido: The best address in the city for seafood and good wine is Le Lido. It is located close the port and has a nicely decorated terrace. The restaurant offers all types of seafood and fish ranging from sea bream and red mullet to grouper, shrimp, oysters, and crabs. The procedure for ordering fish is pretty much straight forward. You choose your fish, have it weighed, and have it cooked to your liking. Starters are also worth ordering and include options like mini brik, spring rolls, sambusek, and onion rings.

• Restaurant L’espadon: A stylish dining establishment with amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea, Restaurant L’espadon is all about tasty meat, fish, and seafood. They do have slightly higher prices for Mahdia, but the quality of the food is worth every Tunisian dinar. We recommend the fall-off-the-bone lamb shank, seafood pasta, and prawns.

• El Couzina: For reasonably priced homemade Tunisian cuisine, go to El Couzina. The restaurant is small and the décor is very simple, but the portions are generous and the food is tasty. Seafood lovers can get the shrimp or seafood spaghetti. If you prefer meat, go for the grilled chicken, schnitzel, or kebab. They also offer sandwiches and burgers.

• Restaurant Borj Erras: This authentic Tunisian restaurant offers tasty seafood meals, as well as a few traditional Tunisian dishes. Borj Erras is located opposite the promenade and provides views of the sea. If you feel like having fish/seafood, get the mixed seafood platter and try and bit of everything. Meat lovers can try the chicken escalope or order bean stew with meat.

• Da Paolo: Craving pizza while vacationing in Mahida? Book a table at Restaurant Da Paolo, the best pizza place in the city. Located right next to the promenade and facing the Mediterranean Sea, the restaurant specialises in Roman-style pizza with a thin crust. In addition to pizza, they offer Italian classics such as chicken fettuccine and ground beef lasagna.

• Neptune Restaurant: This elegant seafood and fish restaurant is located on the Corniche Road in Meknes. The restaurant’s wonderful décor and views of the sea provide an ideal setting for an unforgettable dining experience. Book a table on their terrace and enjoy signature dishes like stuffed calamari, grilled lobster Thermidor, and fish couscous.

Where to stay in Mahdia

• Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour: This luxurious beachfront 5-star resort is, without a doubt, the most popular property in Mahdia. With a private beach, lush gardens with palm trees, a state-of-the-art thalassotherapy center, and both an indoor and an outdoor swimming pool, Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour has everything you need. If you are staying with kids, you’ll be pleased to hear that the resort offers frequent daytime activities and evening entertainment for the little ones including shows, a playground, a playroom, and a disco. For adults, there are water sports, tennis, a fitness center, and much more. There are two on-site restaurants, as well as a few cafes/bars on-site.

• Mahdia Palace Thalasso: With nearly 500 rooms and suites, Mahdia Palace Thalasso is one of the largest 5-star resorts in the area. Decorated in a modern style with Tunisian motifs, the resort itself looks amazing. Guests have access to a private beach with sun beds and umbrellas, 2 swimming pools, and a restaurant that offers both Tunisian and European cuisine. In the evening, guests can enjoy entertainment programs with live music and dancing.

• Dar Evelyne: With sparky clean rooms, a picturesque courtyard, and a stunning rooftop, Dar Evelyne is one of the most beautiful boutique guesthouses in Mahdia. This traditional Tunisian building is located in the heart of the medina, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions. In the kitchen, the staff serves breakfast and offers Tunisian dinner on request. The owner, Najmeddine, is super friendly and accommodating without being intrusive.

The best time to visit Mahdia

The coastal city of Mahdia is a popular beach destination. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the peak season is in summer in July and August. These months offer the warmest temperatures reaching up to 32C or more. If you wish to avoid the heat, we recommend visiting the city during the shoulder seasons (April to June) and (September to October). During this time of year, the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists around.

Mahdia Festivals

• The International Mahdia's Nights Festival: Held every year between July and August, the International Mahdia's Nights Festival is all about theatre, folklore, and classical music.

• Sea Festival: The city of Mahdia also hosts the annual Sea Festival in July. The program is varied and includes everything from sports competitions like beach soccer/beach volleyball tournaments to sea excursions and plastic art exhibitions.