Things To Do
in Ta‘izz

Ta‘izz, Yemen, is a historic city nestled in the mountains, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a significant cultural and economic hub in Yemen, featuring beautiful architecture and vibrant markets. The city is surrounded by picturesque hills and offers a glimpse into traditional Yemeni life.

Despite facing challenges, Ta‘izz remains a beacon of resilience and hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Historic Heart of Ta‘izz
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Al-Ashrafiya Mosque, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture, followed by a stroll through the old city to admire the traditional buildings.

afternoon
:

Head to the Al-Qahera Castle for panoramic views of the city. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Yemeni lunch at a local restaurant.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a visit to the bustling Souq al-Muqaylah, where you can shop for local handicrafts and experience the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Sabir Mountain range, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and lush landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museums, such as the Ta‘izz Museum, to learn about the city’s history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a café known for its local coffee.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a traditional coffee house where you can enjoy Yemeni coffee and engage with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$5
Coffee at a café$2
🏨Hotel room per night$20
🚕Taxi fare (within the city)$1
🥖Street food snack$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Stunning natural landscapes and views
  • Delicious traditional cuisine
  • Safety concerns due to ongoing conflict
  • Limited infrastructure for tourists
  • Language barrier for non-Arabic speakers
  • "السلام عليكم" - Peace be upon you
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "نعم" - Yes
  • "لا" - No

Places to Visit in Ta‘izz

Visit one of these nice places.

Al-Qahera Castle

This historical castle offers stunning views of Ta‘izz and makes for great landscape photography.

Sabir Mountain

A hiking spot that provides breathtaking views, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Souq al-Muqaylah

Capture the lively atmosphere and vibrant colors of the local market, filled with people and goods.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ta‘izz

Ta‘izz offers a diverse culinary scene rich in traditional Yemeni flavors and ingredients, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Ta‘izz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mandi

A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat and a blend of spices, often served on special occasions.

Must-Try!

Fahsa

A traditional Yemeni stew made from lamb or chicken, cooked with spices and served with flatbread.

Salta

A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and fenugreek, typically served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Al-Muqaylah Market

A vibrant market where locals buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks, offering an authentic taste of Ta‘izz.

Street Vendors

Street food stalls selling items like kebabs, samosas, and fresh fruit juices are common throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ta‘izz has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature ranges from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 32°C (90°F) in summer. Rainfall is sparse, mostly occurring between October and March, making the rest of the year predominantly dry.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Both men and women are expected to dress conservatively, especially in public places.

Respect Local Customs

Be mindful of local traditions and practices, particularly during Ramadan.

Greetings

A handshake is common, but wait for the local person to initiate contact, especially with women.

Safety Guide

Safety

Safety in Ta‘izz can be a concern due to political instability and ongoing conflict. Travelers are advised to stay updated on the current situation, avoid demonstrations, and only travel with trusted guides or groups. It’s also wise to maintain a low profile and avoid discussing political issues.

Tipping in Ta‘izz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service workers around 10% in restaurants and cafés.

Payment Methods

Cash is the primary payment method, and it's advisable to carry small denominations.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

The weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Flowers bloom, making the landscapes beautiful.

Summer (June to August)

Expect hot temperatures. Early mornings and late evenings are best for outdoor exploration.

Autumn (September to November)

Mild temperatures return, ideal for sightseeing and hiking. The scenery remains picturesque.

Winter (December to February)

Cooler temperatures, particularly at night, but generally pleasant for travel. Occasional rain may occur.

Nightlife Guide

Ta‘izz at Night

Ta‘izz's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to major cities, but there are several coffee houses and tea shops where locals gather to socialize. Traditional music performances and cultural events may also take place, providing a glimpse into the local culture.

Hiking in Ta‘izz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wadi Al-Ahjar

A beautiful valley with trails that offer stunning views and a chance to experience local flora and fauna.

Mount Sabir Trail

A challenging hike leading to the summit of Mount Sabir, which provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Ta‘izz by plane.

Al-Janad Airport

Located about 30 km from Ta‘izz, this airport serves domestic flights and is the closest to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ta‘izz is a moderately walkable city, particularly in the older districts where many attractions are concentrated. However, the hilly terrain can make walking challenging in some areas, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for steep inclines.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Yemeni Arabs

The predominant group, they are known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Minority Communities

These include various ethnic groups and expatriates, contributing to the city’s diverse cultural fabric.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Ta‘izz, with many local teams and passionate fans.

Traditional Wrestling

Wrestling is a cultural sport often showcased during local festivals and celebrations.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ta‘izz can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include shared taxis and minibusses, which are an affordable way to navigate the city. However, be prepared for crowded conditions and limited schedules.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ta‘izz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Yemeni cuisine often includes meat, there are vegetarian options available, especially in larger restaurants.

Halal Food

Most food in Ta‘izz is halal, but it’s always good to ask when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Ta‘izz are limited, and while there are hospitals and clinics, they may lack advanced medical equipment and supplies. It is advisable for travelers to have comprehensive travel insurance and consider bringing personal medications. In case of serious health issues, evacuation to larger cities or abroad may be necessary.

Discover Yemen

Read more in our Yemen 2025 Travel Guide.

Yemen Travel Guide