Things to Do in Souk Al Attarine

Souk Al Attarine sits in the heart of Tunis's medina, one of the most atmospheric and well-preserved covered markets in North Africa. The name translates to 'spice market,' though you'll find it's evolved into something more eclectic - a maze of narrow alleys where traditional perfume sellers work alongside shops selling everything from handwoven textiles to ornate metalwork. The souk actually feels like stepping into a different century, with its stone archways, dappled light filtering through ancient wooden lattices, and the constant hum of bargaining in Arabic and French. What makes Souk Al Attarine particularly special is how it manages to stay authentically Tunisian despite the tourist traffic - locals still come here for their daily shopping, and many of the shops have been in the same families for generations.

The souk area offers plenty of authentic dining options, from tiny hole-in-the-wall places serving excellent couscous and tajines to traditional tea houses where you can rest between shopping. Look for places where locals eat - they're usually tucked away down side alleys and might not have English menus, but the food tends to be exceptional and very reasonably priced. The nearby Zitouna Mosque area has several good restaurants, and you're only a short walk from the medina's famous Café des Nattes. For something more upscale, head back toward the modern city where you'll find excellent restaurants serving refined Tunisian cuisine.

The souk is open year-round, but spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable temperatures for wandering the covered alleys. Summer can be quite warm inside the souk despite the stone construction, while winter is actually pleasant since you're mostly sheltered. In terms of daily timing, mid-morning to early afternoon tends to be busiest, while late afternoon often provides a more relaxed atmosphere for browsing and chatting with merchants. Friday mornings can be particularly busy with local shoppers preparing for the weekend.