Hammamet, تونس - Things to Do in Hammamet

Things to Do in Hammamet

Hammamet, تونس - Complete Travel Guide

Hammamet stands as Tunisia's crown jewel of Mediterranean tourism, combining pristine sandy beaches with a remarkably well-preserved medina that dates back to the 15th century. This charming coastal town on the Cap Bon peninsula has evolved from a quiet fishing village into one of North Africa's most sophisticated resort destinations, while carefully maintaining its authentic Tunisian character and architectural heritage. The town is divided into two distinct areas: the historic medina with its whitewashed buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and ancient ramparts overlooking the sea, and the modern Yasmine Hammamet zone featuring luxury resorts, golf courses, and contemporary attractions. This perfect blend of old and new, combined with year-round sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and world-class hospitality, makes Hammamet an ideal destination for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and beach relaxation.

Top Things to Do in Hammamet

Explore Hammamet Medina

Wander through the enchanting 15th-century medina with its maze of narrow streets, traditional souks, and stunning sea views from the ancient fortress walls. The medina offers an authentic glimpse into Tunisian life with its whitewashed houses adorned with blue doors and windows, local artisan workshops, and the historic Great Mosque.

Booking Tip: Entry to the medina is free, but budget 5-10 TND for the fortress. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) to avoid crowds and heat. Hire a local guide for 20-30 TND to learn about the history and hidden gems.

Relax on Hammamet Beach

Enjoy the pristine white sand beaches stretching for miles along the Mediterranean coast, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The main beach offers excellent facilities, beach clubs, and calm, shallow waters ideal for families, while more secluded spots can be found toward the edges of town.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but sunbed and umbrella rental costs 10-15 TND per day. Water sports like jet skiing (80-120 TND) and parasailing (60-80 TND) are available from licensed operators. Book through your hotel for better rates and insurance coverage.

Visit Carthageland Theme Park

Experience Tunisia's rich history at this unique theme park that recreates ancient Carthaginian civilization through interactive exhibits, shows, and reconstructed historical sites. The park offers an entertaining and educational journey through 3000 years of Tunisian history, from Carthaginian times through the Islamic period.

Booking Tip: Admission costs 25 TND for adults, 15 TND for children. Open daily 10 AM-6 PM (extended hours in summer). Purchase tickets online for 10% discount, and visit on weekdays for smaller crowds. Allow 4-5 hours for the full experience.

Hammamet Golf Experience

Play on world-class golf courses designed by renowned architects, with the Yasmine Golf Course and Citrus Golf Course offering challenging layouts amid stunning Mediterranean landscapes. These championship courses feature pristine conditions, modern facilities, and breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding olive groves.

Booking Tip: Green fees range from 80-150 TND depending on season and course. Book tee times 2-3 days in advance, especially during peak season (Oct-May). Equipment rental available for 40-60 TND. Many hotels offer golf packages with discounted rates.

Traditional Hammam and Spa Experience

Indulge in authentic Tunisian wellness traditions at a traditional hammam (Turkish bath) followed by relaxing spa treatments using local ingredients like argan oil and rose water. This centuries-old purification ritual includes steam baths, exfoliation with black soap, and therapeutic massages in beautifully tiled traditional bathhouses.

Booking Tip: Traditional hammams cost 30-50 TND, luxury spa versions 80-150 TND. Book afternoon appointments (2-6 PM) for best availability. Bring flip-flops and underwear, or rent towels for 10 TND. Choose spas with good hygiene ratings and female attendants if preferred.

Getting There

Hammamet is easily accessible from Tunis-Carthage International Airport, located about 65 kilometers away (1-hour drive). Regular shuttle buses operated by Navette Plus run every 30 minutes for 12 TND per person, while private taxis cost 80-100 TND for the journey. Car rental is available at the airport from major international companies, with the drive following the scenic coastal A1 highway. Alternatively, you can take a train from Tunis to Bir Bouregba station (45 minutes, 3 TND) followed by a 20-minute taxi ride (15 TND) to Hammamet center.

Getting Around

Hammamet is compact and easily walkable, with most attractions within the medina and Yasmine Hammamet areas accessible on foot. Local taxis (painted yellow) are abundant and inexpensive for short trips (5-15 TND within town), but agree on fares beforehand or insist on using the meter. Horse-drawn carriages (caleches) offer a charming way to tour the medina for 20-30 TND per hour. For exploring the wider region, rental cars are available from 40 TND per day, or you can use the reliable louage (shared taxi) system to reach nearby towns like Nabeul or Sousse for 3-5 TND per person.

Where to Stay

Hammamet Medina
Yasmine Hammamet
Hotel Zone
Hammamet Sud
Hammamet Nord
Nabeul-Hammamet

Food & Dining

Hammamet's dining scene beautifully balances traditional Tunisian cuisine with international flavors, reflecting its cosmopolitan tourist appeal. The medina harbors authentic local restaurants serving specialties like couscous, brik, and fresh seafood, with most meals costing 15-30 TND per person. For upscale dining, Yasmine Hammamet offers sophisticated restaurants featuring Mediterranean fusion cuisine, fine wines, and elegant atmospheres with prices ranging 40-80 TND per person. Street food is excellent and budget-friendly, with vendors selling delicious makroudh pastries, grilled merguez sausages, and fresh fruit juices for 2-8 TND. Many beachfront cafes serve fresh fish, traditional tagines, and refreshing mint tea while offering stunning sea views, making them perfect for sunset dining experiences.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Tunis

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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DaPietro - L'Antica Pizzeria

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FEDERICO

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Bab Tounès

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When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Hammamet is during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October, when temperatures are pleasantly warm (20-28°C), the sea is swimmable, and tourist crowds are manageable. Summer (June-August) brings hot temperatures (30-35°C) and peak crowds but offers the liveliest atmosphere, longest days, and warmest sea temperatures. Winter (December-February) sees mild temperatures (10-18°C) perfect for sightseeing and cultural activities, though some beach facilities may be closed and swimming might be too cool for most visitors. Spring is particularly beautiful with blooming jasmine flowers (Hammamet means 'place of doves' and is famous for jasmine), while autumn offers warm seas and comfortable temperatures for both beach activities and exploring the medina.

Insider Tips

Visit the medina during the late afternoon golden hour when the white buildings glow beautifully against the blue sea, and stay for sunset from the fortress walls for spectacular photo opportunities
Bargaining is expected in souks - start at 30% of the quoted price and settle around 50-60%, and always carry small denomination bills as vendors rarely have change for large notes
Try the local specialty 'makroudh Hammamet' - a delicious semolina pastry filled with dates and honey that's different from other Tunisian versions, available at traditional patisseries throughout the medina

Explore Activities in Hammamet