THINGS TO DO IN sousse: 2-DAY ITINERARY

Known as the “Pearl of the Sahel”, Sousse is a coastal city in Tunisia that sits along the beautiful Mediterranean coast. From a UNESCO-listed Aghlabid-era Medina surrounded by fortified walls and blessed with well-preserved ramparts and lively souks to spectacular beaches and all-inclusive resorts, Tunisia’s third-largest city is an ideal destination for both culture vultures and beachgoers.

The Grand Mosque is one of the city’s key landmarks, while the Sousse Archaeological Museum is where you will find one of the finest collections of Roman mosaics in the region. There is also the vibrant Port El Kantaoui, a modern marina, and a tourist complex lined with entertainment venues, boutiques, luxury yachts, and waterfront restaurants.

This 2-day travel itinerary allows you to experience Sousse from a unique perspective and takes you to the city’s finest tourist attractions. We’ve also provided a few tips on where to eat and where to stay, as well as suggestions for cool day trips from Sousse.

Day 1

Morning: Sousse Medina Souk

Narrow cobbled alleyways, traditional Tunisian buildings, and charismatic markets make the Medina of Sousse a perfect place to begin your travel itinerary in the 'Pearl of the Sahel'. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the most beautiful medinas in the region. Explore the medina’s souk to find everything from leather bags and colorful pottery to finely crafted textiles and jewelry.

Sousse Archaeological Museum

Your next stop is one of the most important museums in all of Tunisia, the Sousse Archaeological Museum. Located within the city’s Kasbah, the museum houses an extensive collection of Roman mosaics including the famous mosaic of Neptune and the Head of Medusa. In addition to these finely crafted mosaics, the Sousse Archaeological Museum also features statues and other artifacts from different periods. Expect to spend at least two hours here.

Museum Dar Essid

Wish to see how Tunisian life looked like in the 18th and 19th century? Visit Museum Dar Essid, a 19th-century house transformed into a fabulous museum. From a beautiful central courtyard and nicely decorated rooms fitted with period furniture to servant spaces and kitchens, the residence is packed with well-preserved artifacts and interiors worth exploring. For majestic views of the city, visit the museum’s rooftop bar.

Day 1, morning - sousse Tour Map

Afternoon: Ribat of Sousse

Your afternoon walk begins at the best-preserved Islamic fortification in this part of the world. Once a military base, the Ribat of Sousse is a unique complex and major landmark in Sousse. Apart from empty rooms, there is not much to see inside this structure. However, you should definitely climb the central watchtower and enjoy breathtaking views of the city harbor and the medina.

Great Mosque of Sousse

Located just a short walk from the Ribat in the medina, you will find this iconic religious structure with a square minaret that dates back to the mid-9th century. Unlike some of the other mosques in Tunisia, the Great Mosque of Sousse is quite modest in décor. Step inside the majestic courtyard and admire the beauty of chandeliers in the praying hall. It is recommended to wear modest clothing when visiting this tranquil place of worship.

Soula Shopping Center

If you don’t like haggling in the souks in the medina, do your shopping at the Soula Shopping Center in the harbor area. Spread across several floors, the mall offers a nice selection of reasonably priced goods ranging from leather items and clothes to souvenirs. Once you get tired of all the shopping, head out to the top floor where you will find a cute café/restaurant overlooking the harbor. Their deep-fried cheese sandwich is delicious!

Musée Magic Eye 3D

End your day with a visit to the first 3D illusion museum in the country, the amazing Musée Magic Eye 3D. Spread across three floors, the museum is all about interactive art and awesome illusions. Position yourself in front of one of the paintings/exhibits for that perfect selfie. Some of the most popular exhibits include the flying carpet of Aladin and the pyramids of Cleopatra. You can also download their app which makes it easier to save photos/videos and share them with your friends.

Day 1, afternoon - sousse Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Sousse Port

Located a short walk from the medina, the Sousse Port is a touristy area where you will find a bunch of pirate ships that offer fun excursions. It is more of a shipyard than your typical marina. Hop on one of these ships to experience the city of Sousse from a different perspective. The Pirate Boat tours last for about 3 hours and most of them offer food and drinks on board. You can look forward to jumping off the ship into the sea and seeing various tourist attractions from the boat.

Sousse Central Park

An ideal place to relax after all the sightseeing, Sousse Central Park is a lovely area with lots of flowers and a beautiful fountain. Travellers can also take a photo in front of the nearby “I Love Sousse” inscription.

Sousse Promenade

Go for a stroll along this beautiful boardwalk and enjoy amazing sea views. Always packed with people, the Sousse Promenade is lined with small tea stands, food stalls, and ice cream parlors.

Bou Jaafar Beach

Your last stop in the morning is the most popular beach in the city, Bou Jaafar. Packed with restaurants and bars, this lovely stretch of sand is a popular spot among both tourists and locals. Whether you wish to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, go kayaking, or try local food delicacies at one of the beach shacks, there is so much to look forward to when visiting Bou Jaafar Beach.

Day 2, morning - sousse Tour Map

Afternoon: Port El Kantaoui

Located outside the city center on the northeast side of Sousse, this modern marina and resort complex was built back in the 1970s. Port El Kantaoui is home to several luxury hotels and blocks of holiday apartments. You will also find many boutiques, sports facilities, luxurious yachts, restaurants, and cafes at this Moorish-style development.

Fontaine Musicale

There is a lovely musical fountain in the middle of a square in the tourist zone. Illuminated in the colors of the rainbow, Fontaine Musicale plays movie tunes and songs of popular performers in the evenings. These visual/musical shows start every evening around 9 pm. The square itself looks alive with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops around.

Hannibal Park

With plenty of fun rides, this family-friendly theme park is an ideal place to visit in the evening. There are nearly 30 attractions in Hannibal Park ranging from bumper cars and a mini roller coaster to a trampoline and a ghost train. There is also a fun Ferris wheel, as well as the popular Kamikaze Ride.

Day 2, afternoon - sousse Tour Map

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Other things to see in Sousse

• Dar Am Taieb Musee prive d'art contemporain: Modern art lovers visiting Sousse can explore this eclectic contemporary art museum. A local sculptor, Taïeb Ben Hadj decided to turn his residential villa into a museum where most items are made of recycled materials. Expect to see everything from paintings and sculptures including the quirky stuffed man who was made from scrap metal and cans.

• The Catacombs of Sousse: Wish to know more about the early Christian history of North Africa? Located southeast of the medina in Sousse, these narrow underground tunnels are home to more than 15,000 tombs. There are three main sections to explore: Severus, the Good Shepherd, and Hermes. You should definitely check for the latest information, as the catacombs are often closed to the public.

• Sunday Market in Sousse: If you wish to mingle with the locals and satisfy your shopping cravings, don’t miss the Sunday Market in Sousse. Located close to the entrance to the Catacombs of Sousse, the market offers livestock stalls and shops that sell souvenirs, ceramic tiles, traditional handicrafts, and much more.

• Glamour Centre Spa: Treat yourself to a spa day at this fabulous salon. Glamour Centre Spa has one of the best hammams in the city and offers a wide range of treatments including body scrubs, massages, and hair treatments. Visitors say how the 1-hour anti-stress massage is amazing and add the facial massage is also very good.

• Monument des Martyrs: Pay a visit to this unique monument in Sousse dedicated to the martyrs of WW2. Located at the entrance to the medina, not far from the Magic Eye Museum, Monument des Martyrs is a statue made by a local sculptor called Hedi Selmi. You will find plenty of pictures on the site, but unfortunately no background information.

Day trips from Sousse

• Monastir: Both a modern seaside resort and a town with historical attractions and lavish architecture, Monastir offers something for every traveller. On the modern side, you have beachfront hotels with elegant restaurants and long golden sandy beaches with turquoise waters. On the historical side, Monastir is home to two of the country’s most important landmarks (The Monastir Rabit and Habib Bourguiba Mausoleum). The Monastir Rabit is an impressive fortified Islamic Monastery, while the Habib Bourguiba Mausoleum is dedicated to the first president of Tunis. Monastir is located about 30 kilometers from Sousse which makes for an easy day trip.

• Roman Ruins of El Jem: The town of El Jem has one of North Africa’s most impressive Roman ruins. Located 70 kilometers from Sousse, El Jem is a perfect place for history buffs and culture vultures staying in Tunisia. The biggest attraction here is the golden-stoned amphitheater which was built in the 3rd century CE. This well-preserved site is actually the fourth-largest amphitheater in the world. It is known for its labyrinthine underground passages where animals and gladiators were kept. You can climb all the way to the third floor and even visit the underground tunnels right beneath the oval stage. Don’t miss the small archaeological museum which houses a nice collection of mosaics and artifacts from the region.

• Kairouan: One of the country’s nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kairouan is packed with religious attractions. This comes as no surprise, as it is the most important religious place for Muslim people in Tunisia. Only Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem are more popular Kairouan. Dating back to the 9th century, the Great Mosque of Kairouan is the number one attraction. Travellers will also find other mosques including Mosque of the Three Gates, Mosque of the Barber, Mosque of Ansar, and Mosque Al Bey. You can also explore the narrow streets of the medina and shop for local food delicacies such as makroudh and traditional crafts. It will take you just under one hour by car to reach Kairouan from Sousse.

• Hergla: If you are searching for a laid-back fishing village with magnificent sea views, look no further than Hergla. There is not much to do here in this hill-top town apart from enjoying some quality beach time, shopping for local crafts like bags made of grass and woven baskets, and admiring the beauty of historical white houses with blue windows. Hergla is located 35 kilometers north of Sousse.

• Takrouna: If you are interested in traditional architecture and Berber culture, visit Takrouna. Nestled on a hilltop, this ancient Berber village is located approximately 55 kilometers from Sousse. Explore this unique historical village that has only a few remaining residents. There are olive groves and a few souvenir shops where you can get locally made souvenirs that represent the village’s Berber heritage.

• Hammamet: Famed for its golden beaches, a historical medina, and a modern entertainment complex created to resemble a medina, Hammamet makes for a perfect day trip from Sousse. Whether you wish to wander the streets of the old medina and see a picturesque 15th-century fortress overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, spend a day on the beach, or visit one of the best amusement parks in the country (Carthage Land), there is so much to look forward to when visiting this popular coastal city in Tunisia. You can get to Hammamet from Sousse with a car in about an hour.

• Mahdia: A coastal tourist town with pristine beaches, Mahdia is located 50 kilometers from Sousse. In addition to its spectacular white sand beaches, Mahdia is also home to a few historical monuments such as a marine cemetery, an old fortress, a souk, and a picturesque medina. Don’t miss the iconic city gate, the Skifa El Kahla. A beautiful coastal town called Enfidha lies 50km from Sousse. It is best known for being home to the busy Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport, The town itself has a few bustling markets and a couple of extraordinary beaches worth checking out.

Best golf courses in Sousse

• Golf EL Kantaouri: Golfers visiting Sousse can spend a day at Golf EL Kantaouri. With picturesque lakes, adorable fountains, and dense fairways, Golf EL Kantaouri looks beautiful. The estate boasts 2 courses: Panorama and the Sea Course. We should mention that both golf courses are quite challenging. Once you get hungry, visit the on-site El Kantaoui Golf Club which offers mouthwatering food and majestic views of the golf courses. Meals are served à la carte here. Try the slow-cooked lamb in a delicious broth/sauce served with a side of excellent grilled vegetables.

Things to do with kids in Sousse

• Kantaoui Zoo: Visitors traveling with kids can check out this cute small zoo with a botanical garden. There are goats, rabbits, sheep, guinea pigs, as well as a variety of birds to look at inside Kantaoui Zoo. You will also come across one cute baby camel. As we mentioned before, the zoo is really small and it will take you about 30 minutes to go through it.

• Acqua Palace: The largest water park in Tunisia is a perfect place to visit with the little ones. For a memorable aquatic adventure, spend a day at the Acqua Palace Port El Kantaoui. There are so many rides to look forward to from totally safe slides to adrenaline-packed rides. The wave pool with artificial waves and the river are amazing, as well as some of the new attractions like the black hole and the space boat. Once you get tired from all the aquatic rides, grab something to eat from one of the many reasonably priced food stands.

• Parc Hadhood: Located between the medina and Port El Kantaoui, this indoor play park is designed for kids of all ages. Parc Hadhood is an air-conditioned entertainment center where your kids can enjoy a variety of fun and well-secured games under the supervision of professional staff. There is a cafeteria area in the middle of the play area for parents. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable.

• Zinebledi Horse Riding Club: This is, without a doubt, the best company for horse riding in Sousse. Omar and his crew offer a 2-hour long horse-riding adventure for both adults and kids. You will pass by olive groves and ride your horse along the beach and back to the stable. The horses are very well looked after and seem happy. Zinebledi Horse Riding Club also offers horse riding lessons.

• Friguia Park: It takes about an hour by car to reach this family-friendly wildlife park from Sousse. The main attraction is the iconic dolphinarium where you can actually swim with dolphins. You will also have a chance to see more than 60 species of animals ranging from leopards and lions to giraffes and even flamingos.

Where to eat in Sousse

• Restaurant l'escargot: If you are in the mood for some seriously tasty French and Tunisian dishes, make a reservation at this romantic restaurant in Sousse. Restaurant l'escargot is known for its beautiful decorations which include pretty ornaments and paintings on the walls. The complimentary bread, herb butter, and harissa are delicious. The menu is extensive with options such as Berber lamb served with veggies and potatoes, steak with foie gras, escargot with mushrooms, and tagliatelle with smoked salmon.

• Restaurant Le Capoul Beach: When it comes to beachfront dining in Sousse, Restaurant Le Capoul Beach first comes to mind. You will be enjoying a delicious meal right next to the beach. The restaurant offers a delicious full breakfast, as well as an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner. They do everything from salads, hamburgers, and pizza to pasta dishes, steaks, and desserts. Beef carpaccio and Caesar salad are popular entrée options. For dessert, go for the fondat chocolat or order boule de glace.

• Restaurant Café Seles: Located in the medina, this family-run restaurant offers home-cooked Tunisian meals. The Berber-style dining establishment is run by Sami and Fuzia who prepare everything from fish couscous and chicken kebab to Tunisian brikah and beef tagine. Book a table on the rooftop terrace for amazing views of the medina and the sea. In addition to tasty foods and fabulous views, Restaurant Café Seles offers a wide selection of refreshing cold and hot drinks.

• Restaurant du Peuple: When it comes to traditional Tunisian food, Restaurant du Peuple is where you want to go. From the slow-cooked Berber casserole lamb that falls right off the bone to the signature fisherman’s port which includes freshly caught fish, prawns, and mussels, everything you order here is spectacular, to say the least. You can also try their refreshing and light tomato soup or get the stuffed squid. It is an old-school eatery with a traditional décor. We should mention they don’t serve alcohol and there is no menu in English.

• Farmers Steakhouse: If you are craving steak while visiting Sousse, book a table at this modern and spacious restaurant. Farmers Steakhouse is all about high-quality meats cooked to your liking. Whether you want a medium rare T-bone or wish to feast on the signature farmer’s steak served with jacket potato, the options are plentiful. In addition to premium cuts of meat, the Farmers Steakhouse also offers things like spicy chicken wings and the giant burger.

• Mio Mondo Café: This touristy café in the center of Sousse is an extremely popular place to eat and enjoy drinks. Mio Mondo Café offers an extensive food menu with burgers, pasta, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, and everything in between. The spicy Moroccan sausage called merguez is definitely something you should try. Besides tasty foods, Mio Mondo is known for its milkshakes in different flavors and tasty fruit cocktails.

Where to stay in Sousse

• JAZ Tour Khalef Hotel: You will find this seaside hotel close to the popular Port El Kantaoui in Sousse. Spread across 10 hectares of land, JAZ Tour Khalef Hotel is a popular property amongst tourists who wish to stay close to the beach. It has an indoor and an outdoor pool, as well as a thalassotherapy and spa center where guests can enjoy a variety of massages. Unwind with a drink at the poolside bar and enjoy both international and local cuisine at one of the on-site restaurants. For grilled meat, there is the Beach Barbecue restaurant. For Tunisian local specialties, enjoy lunch or dinner at L’Etoile restaurant. Guests like the spacious rooms and say how most suites come with fabulous sea views.

• Sousse Pearl Marriott Resort & Spa: With more than 220 rooms, this is one of the biggest resorts in Sousse. You will be staying just a short walk from the popular Bou Jaafar beach and within walking distance from the medina. The resort itself has everything needed for an unforgettable stay including a private beach, 2 outdoor swimming pools, a garden, and a spa center with onsite massages, body treatments, and facials. There is no shortage of dining options at the Sousse Pearl Marriott Resort & Spa. The Resort restaurant focuses on International cuisine, while the Opus is more about Asian dishes. Guests have access to a few on-site bars that offer light snacks and drinks.

• TUI BLUE Scheherazade Adults Only: Travellers searching for an adults-only property in Sousse can book their stay at this posh all-inclusive resort. Named after the famous princess of the Arabian Nights, the resort looks beautiful, has a spectacular private beach, and offers more than 200 bright and airy rooms with sea and garden views. Whether you wish to enjoy a relaxing massage at the on-site spa, go for a dip in one of the 2 outdoor swimming pools, get a haircut at the on-site hair salon, or just chill on the resort’s private beach with fine sands, there is so much too look forward to when booking accommodation at the TUI BLUE Scheherazade Adults Only.

• Dar LEkBIRA: If you prefer boutique hotels, we recommend making a reservation at Dar LEkBIRA. Situated inside a renovated Tunisian house in the medina, the property only has 7 tastefully decorated rooms with spa bathtubs and walk-in showers. You will be just minutes away from attractions such as the Museum Dar Essid and the Great Mosque of Sousse. Breakfast is included in the price and the rooftop terrace offers mesmerizing views of the medina.

• Dar Antonia: Located in the heart of the medina in Sousse, Dar Antonia is a wonderful Tunisian palace transformed into a boutique hotel. This elegant hotel is known for its lavish furnishings and has only 6 rooms to choose from. It is an ideal place for travellers who wish to get some peace and quiet while visiting Sousse. There is a nice rooftop space with a small swimming pool, a bunch of picturesque stairs everywhere you turn, and a tiny library. Breakfast at Dar Antonia is delicious and includes crunchy croissants, eggs, sweet fruits, freshly made pastries, orange juice, and traditional Tunisian tea.

• Dar Hkaïem: This charming little guesthouse is located in a very quiet residential area, just a short walk from the Mosque and away from the main tourist hub. The owner, Toutou is super friendly and always happy to recommend hidden gems in the city worth visiting. The property itself looks lovely with a central courtyard and nicely designed Arabic-style rooms. Breakfast is prepared by the owner and includes regional food delicacies.

• Dar Baaziz: Situated inside a historical house from the 18th century, Dar Baaziz offers 5 bright rooms with traditional furnishings. Go to the rooftop terrace to enjoy panoramic views of the port and the medina. There is also a nice hammock on the terrace where guests can read a book and enjoy coffee and tea. Breakfast includes bread, eggs, orange juice, and coffee and is served in a beautiful courtyard. The souks, the archaeological museum, and the port are just a short walk away.

Best time to visit Sousse

So, when is the best time to visit Sousse? It really depends on what you are looking to get from your vacation. Travellers planning to spend their days on the beach and stay in beachfront resorts can visit the third-largest city in Tunisia during the peak season which runs from June to September. Keep in mind that during this time of year, the medina and the touristy port area are packed with people. As for the winter season which lasts from December to March, it is known to be cold and rainy. It is impossible to swim in the sea in winter here in Sousse. If you wish to avoid large crowds of tourists, enjoy pleasant weather, and explore the attractions, we recommend visiting Sousse in April and May. The temperatures stay around 22-27 degrees in spring, making it an ideal time to wander around the city comfortably.

Sousse Festivals

• Sousse International Festival (July-August): Celebrating its 65th birthday this year, the Sousse International Festival is one of the most anticipated annual events in this part of Tunisia. The festival lasts for over a month (July-August) and most events are held at the Sidi Dhaher open-air theater, close to the Archaeological Museum. Expect to see Tunisian musicians and artists, as well as music shows by performers from both neighboring and far-away countries. In addition to live music performances, the Sousse International Festival also hosts screenings of feature films and animations.

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