Things To Do
in Sousse

Sousse is a vibrant coastal city in Tunisia known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively medina. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring ancient structures like the Ribat, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean. Sousse is also famous for its bustling souks, where visitors can shop for local crafts and spices.

With its blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, Sousse is an ideal destination for travelers seeking culture and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Medina and Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Medina of Sousse, exploring its narrow streets and shops filled with local crafts. Don't miss the Great Mosque and the impressive Ribat.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to Boujaffar Beach for some sunbathing and swimming. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the vibrant atmosphere of the beach.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant along the coast, then take a stroll along the promenade to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Historical Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Sousse Archaeological Museum to learn about the city's history and see ancient mosaics. Take your time to explore the exhibits.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café in the medina, then visit the Kasbah for panoramic views of the city and the sea.

evening
:

Experience Sousse's nightlife by visiting a local bar or club, enjoying live music or traditional Tunisian performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$5
🍺Local beer (0.5 liter)$2
🚌One-way public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel room (mid-range)$50
Coffee at a café$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful beaches with various activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and vibrant markets.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Language barrier for non-French or Arabic speakers.
  • Limited public transport options outside the city.
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Min fadlak" - Please
  • "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kam thaman?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ma'alesh" - No problem

Places to Visit in Sousse

Visit one of these nice places.

Ribat of Sousse

An ancient fortress overlooking the sea, offering breathtaking views and a chance to capture the beauty of Sousse.

Great Mosque

The large and beautiful mosque features stunning architecture and is a great spot for capturing local life.

Boujaffar Beach

The beach provides a picturesque backdrop of the Mediterranean, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sousse

Sousse offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of Tunisian cuisine. From traditional dishes to fresh seafood, there is something for everyone.

Sousse Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Couscous

A staple dish made from steamed semolina, often served with meat and vegetables in a rich sauce.

Must-Try!

Brik

A popular snack made of thin pastry filled with egg, tuna, and capers, then deep-fried until crispy.

Lablabi

A hearty chickpea soup seasoned with garlic and cumin, typically served with bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Medina Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sousse has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Rainfall is most common in the winter months, while summer is predominantly dry, making it a perfect time for beach activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

While Sousse is tourist-friendly, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect Prayer Times

Be mindful of the five daily prayer times; during these times, many shops may close for a short period.

Greetings

A handshake is a common greeting among men, while men typically greet women with a nod or smile unless initiated by the woman.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sousse is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuable items and be cautious when using ATMs. It's recommended to keep emergency contacts handy and familiarize yourself with local laws and customs.

Tipping in Sousse

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is good; rounding up cab fares is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, but carrying cash is advisable for street vendors and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March - May)

Mild temperatures make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with blooming flowers enhancing the landscape.

Summer (June - August)

Summer can be hot, making it perfect for beach activities, but be prepared for crowds at popular tourist spots.

Autumn (September - November)

Temperatures start to cool, making it a pleasant time for exploring the medina and enjoying local festivals.

Winter (December - February)

Winter is mild but can be rainy; it's a quieter time for tourism, ideal for those who prefer fewer crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Sousse at Night

Sousse's nightlife is lively, with various options for entertainment ranging from beach bars to nightclubs. Many establishments offer live music, traditional Tunisian performances, and themed nights. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for tourists to mingle with locals. Popular areas include the beachfront promenade where bars line the coast, providing a vibrant social scene.

Hiking in Sousse

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Djebel Boukornine National Park

Located about 30 km from Sousse, this park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and Mediterranean coastline.

Kroumirie Mountains

A bit further afield, these mountains feature various trails suitable for different skill levels, showcasing beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Sousse by plane.

Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Sousse, this airport serves international flights and is the main gateway for travelers visiting the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sousse is quite walkable, especially within the medina where narrow streets are best explored on foot. The city's layout is pedestrian-friendly, with significant attractions within walking distance. However, outside the medina, sidewalks can be less consistent, and visitors may need to be cautious of traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Berbers

An indigenous ethnic group with a rich cultural heritage, Berbers have historically inhabited various regions of Tunisia, including Sousse.

Arabs

The majority population in Tunisia, Arabs have a diverse cultural influence, particularly in language, traditions, and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Tunisia, with local clubs and national teams having a large following.

Handball

Handball enjoys significant popularity, with many local teams and a strong presence in schools and communities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sousse can be congested, especially during peak hours. While public transportation options like buses and taxis are available, they may not always be reliable. Visitors are encouraged to explore on foot when possible or use taxis for longer distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sousse.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Halal Food

Most food in Sousse is halal, but it's best to confirm with the restaurant when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sousse is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for tourists. Public and private hospitals offer various services, though private facilities tend to provide better care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to know the location of the nearest hospital.

Discover Tunisia

Read more in our Tunisia 2025 Travel Guide.

Tunisia Travel Guide