Things to Do in Sousse, تونس

Sousse, Tunisia's 'Pearl of the Sahel,' is a captivating coastal city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern Mediterranean charm. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts one of the best-preserved medinas in North Africa, featuring labyrinthine streets, traditional souks, and stunning Islamic architecture dating back to the 9th century. The city's strategic location along the Mediterranean coast has made it a crossroads of civilizations for over a millennium. Today, Sousse serves as both a cultural treasure trove and a popular beach destination, offering visitors pristine sandy beaches, world-class resorts, and a vibrant nightlife scene. The city's rich archaeological heritage, including Roman mosaics and Byzantine fortifications, combined with its bustling modern districts and excellent tourist infrastructure, makes it an ideal base for exploring Tunisia's diverse attractions while enjoying Mediterranean luxury.

Top Things to Do in Sousse

Explore Sousse Medina

Wander through the UNESCO-listed medina, one of Tunisia's finest examples of Islamic architecture and urban planning. The ancient walls enclose a maze of narrow streets filled with traditional craftsmen, spice vendors, and historic monuments including the Great Mosque and Ribat fortress. This living museum offers an authentic glimpse into medieval North African life while providing excellent shopping opportunities for traditional handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs.

Booking Tip: Free to explore independently, but consider hiring a local guide for 20-30 TND to fully appreciate the history and navigate the maze-like streets. Best visited in early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Look for guides certified by the tourism office.

Visit Archaeological Museum

Discover Tunisia's rich Roman heritage at this exceptional museum housed in the historic Kasbah. The collection features some of the world's finest Roman mosaics, including the famous Neptune mosaic and intricate floor decorations from ancient villas. The museum also displays artifacts from Punic, Roman, and Islamic periods, providing comprehensive insight into the region's layered history.

Booking Tip: Entrance fee around 11 TND for adults. Open daily except Mondays, best visited in the morning when lighting is optimal for viewing mosaics. Audio guides available for additional fee, or download museum app for self-guided tour.

Relax at Sousse Beaches

Enjoy the pristine Mediterranean coastline along Sousse's extensive sandy beaches stretching for miles north and south of the city center. The main beach areas offer excellent swimming conditions, water sports facilities, and beachfront cafes serving fresh seafood. Popular activities include jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and traditional fishing boat excursions.

Booking Tip: Public beaches are free, but consider beach clubs (15-25 TND entry) for better facilities and services. Water sports typically cost 30-80 TND depending on activity. Book through reputable operators with proper safety equipment and insurance.

Day Trip to El Jem Amphitheatre

Visit the magnificent Roman amphitheatre at El Jem, just an hour from Sousse and considered one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site could seat 35,000 spectators and rivals the Colosseum in Rome for its architectural grandeur. The underground chambers and arena provide fascinating insights into gladiatorial combat and Roman entertainment.

Booking Tip: Organized tours cost 60-100 TND including transport and guide, or take the train independently for 8 TND each way plus 10 TND entrance. Tours typically include stops at traditional pottery workshops. Book morning departures to avoid afternoon heat.

Traditional Hammam Experience

Indulge in an authentic Tunisian spa experience at one of Sousse's traditional hammams or modern thalassotherapy centers. These therapeutic treatments combine steam baths, exfoliation with black soap, and relaxing massages using local oils and sea minerals. The experience offers both cultural immersion and rejuvenating wellness benefits in beautiful traditional or luxury spa settings.

Booking Tip: Traditional hammams cost 20-40 TND, luxury spa treatments 80-200 TND. Book appointments in advance, especially during peak season. Women should visit on designated days/hours at traditional hammams. Bring flip-flops and consider bringing your own towel.

Getting There

Sousse is easily accessible via Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport, located 45 minutes away and serving numerous European destinations with direct flights. Alternatively, fly into Tunis-Carthage Airport (2 hours by car or train). The city is well-connected by Tunisia's reliable train network, with regular services from Tunis (2.5 hours), Sfax, and other major cities. Long-distance buses (louages) provide economical transportation from across Tunisia, while rental cars offer flexibility for exploring the surrounding region at your own pace.

Getting Around

Sousse's compact city center is easily walkable, with most attractions within the medina and port area accessible on foot. Local buses connect different neighborhoods for just 0.5 TND per ride, while petit taxis (small yellow cabs) are affordable for short distances within the city. For longer journeys or beach areas, grand taxis (shared taxis) and ride-hailing apps provide convenient options. Many hotels offer bicycle rentals, perfect for exploring the coastal promenade and nearby attractions. The tourist train (petit train) offers a fun way to see major sights with commentary in multiple languages.

Where to Stay

Sousse Medina

Port El Kantaoui

Sousse Beach Resort Zone

Downtown Sousse

Hergla Coast

Chott Meriem

Food & Dining

Sousse offers exceptional dining ranging from authentic street food to upscale Mediterranean cuisine. The medina's narrow streets hide family-run restaurants serving traditional dishes like couscous, brik, and fresh seafood tagines at very reasonable prices. For fine dining, the marina area and luxury hotels feature restaurants with international cuisine and stunning sea views. Don't miss trying local specialties like mechouia salad, lamb with dates, and the famous Tunisian harissa. The central market provides fresh ingredients and local delicacies, while beachfront cafes offer perfect settings for mint tea and pastries while watching Mediterranean sunsets.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Sousse is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant (20-28°C) and rainfall is minimal. Summer months (June-August) can be very hot and crowded but offer the best beach weather and liveliest nightlife scene. Winter (December-February) sees fewer tourists and mild temperatures perfect for sightseeing, though some beach activities may be limited. Ramadan periods can affect restaurant hours and cultural site accessibility, so check dates when planning. The shoulder seasons provide the best balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowds.

Insider Tips

Visit the fish market early morning near the port for the freshest seafood and authentic local atmosphere

Bargaining is expected in souks - start at 30-40% of the asking price and negotiate respectfully

Many museums and archaeological sites offer significant discounts for students and seniors with proper identification

Things to Do in Sousse