Often dubbed the “St Tropez of Tunisia,” Hammamet is the country’s most beloved seaside resort destination, gracefully positioned on the northeastern coast of Tunisia’s Cap Bon peninsula. This charming coastal town of approximately 65,000 residents seamlessly blends centuries-old tradition with modern tourism infrastructure, creating an enchanting Mediterranean escape that has captivated visitors since the 1920s. From its pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters to its well-preserved 15th-century medina and imposing kasbah fortress, Hammamet offers an authentic taste of North African culture alongside world-class resort amenities.

The town is divided into two main areas: the historic Hammamet with its traditional medina and fishing harbour, and the modern Yasmine Hammamet, a purpose-built resort zone featuring luxury hotels, golf courses, and entertainment complexes. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, beach relaxation, or family-friendly activities, Hammamet delivers an unforgettable experience that showcases Tunisia’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

When to Visit Hammamet?

Best Time to Visit

The optimal period to visit Hammamet spans from April through October, with the sweet spot being late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October). During these months, you’ll enjoy warm, pleasant temperatures averaging 22-28°C (72-82°F), minimal rainfall, and fewer crowds than the peak summer season.

Seasonal Breakdown

Spring (March-May): Ideal weather with temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F). Perfect for exploring the medina and outdoor activities without the summer heat. Hotel rates are reasonable, and the countryside is lush and green.

Summer (June-August): Peak tourist season with hot temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). Beach weather is perfect, but expect crowds and higher prices. July and August see the most visitors and the warmest sea temperatures.

Autumn (September-November): Outstanding weather with temperatures from 20-28°C (68-82°F). The sea remains warm from summer, crowds thin out, and hotel rates become more reasonable. September is particularly lovely.

Winter (December-February): Mild temperatures averaging 12-18°C (54-64°F) with occasional rain. Many tourist facilities close, but it’s perfect for cultural exploration and enjoying lower accommodation prices.

How to Get to Hammamet?

By Air

Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport (NBE): Located 40km from Hammamet, this modern airport serves numerous international destinations with charter and scheduled flights from Europe.

Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN): Tunisia’s main international gateway, situated 65km from Hammamet. Offers more flight options and serves as a hub for Tunisair.

Airport Transfers:

• Taxi from Enfidha: $25-35 USD
• Taxi from Tunis: $40-60 USD
• Hotel shuttle services are available from most resorts
• Rental car agencies operate at both airports

By Land

From Tunis: Regular bus services and shared taxis (louages) connect Tunis to Hammamet. Journey time is approximately 1.5 hours by bus ($3-5 USD) or 1 hour by shared taxi ($4-6 USD).

From Other Tunisian Cities: Direct bus connections from major cities, including Sousse (45 minutes), Monastir (1 hour), and Kairouan (2 hours).

By Car: Hammamet is easily accessible via the A1 motorway from Tunis and well-connected coastal roads from other resort towns.

Getting Around in Hammamet

Walking: The medina and central Hammamet are compact and easily walkable. Most attractions in the historic centre are within a 15-minute walk of each other.

Taxis: Yellow taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. Short trips within town cost $2-4 USD. Always agree on the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running.

Calèches (Horse-drawn carriages): A charming way to explore the medina area, popular with tourists. Prices range from $10-20 USD for a tour.

Rental Cars: Available from international and local companies. Useful for exploring the wider region and day trips to nearby attractions.

Tourist Train: A small train connects various points in Yasmine Hammamet, making it easy to navigate the resort area.

Bicycles: Many hotels offer bike rentals, and cycling is pleasant along the coastal areas and in Yasmine Hammamet.

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Hammamet

Historical and Cultural Sites

Hammamet Medina: A beautifully preserved 15th-century walled city featuring narrow cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and authentic souks. The Medina walls stretch for nearly 2km and offer stunning views of the Mediterranean. Entry is free, though some sections may charge small fees.

Kasbah of Hammamet: This imposing fortress overlooks the sea and houses a small museum showcasing local history and artefacts. The kasbah offers panoramic views of the coastline and the medina. Entry fee: approximately $5 USD.

Great Mosque of Hammamet: Located within the medina, this historic mosque features beautiful Islamic architecture. Non-Muslims can admire the exterior and courtyard areas during designated hours.

Sidi Bou Ali Mausoleum: A sacred site dedicated to a revered local saint, featuring traditional Tunisian religious architecture and peaceful gardens.

Pupput Roman Site: Ancient Roman ruins located between Hammamet and Nabeul, showcasing mosaics, thermal baths, and archaeological remains from the 1st-3rd centuries CE.

Museums and Galleries

Hammamet Museum: Housed within the kasbah, this small but informative museum displays archaeological finds, traditional crafts, and exhibits on local history and culture.

George Sebastian Villa: The former residence of Romanian millionaire George Sebastian, now a cultural centre hosting art exhibitions and concerts. The villa’s gardens and architecture are worth exploring.

Centre Culturel International: A modern cultural space featuring rotating art exhibitions, performances, and workshops showcasing contemporary Tunisian and international artists.

Markets and Shopping

Medina Souks: Traditional markets within the old city selling everything from spices and textiles to handcrafted pottery and leather goods. Perfect for authentic souvenirs and experiencing local commerce.

Yasmine Hammamet Medina: A modern recreation of a traditional medina featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. While not historic, it offers convenient shopping and dining options.

Central Market: A bustling local market where residents shop for fresh produce, spices, and daily necessities. Great for experiencing authentic local life.

Pottery Workshops: Visit local artisans creating traditional Nabeul pottery, famous throughout Tunisia for its quality and distinctive designs.

Beaches and Nature

Hammamet Beach: The main public beach stretches for several kilometres, offering golden sand, clear waters, and numerous beach clubs and restaurants.

Yasmine Hammamet Beach: A well-maintained beach area with excellent facilities, water sports, and beachfront dining options.

Friguia Park: A wildlife park and zoo located 10km from Hammamet, home to African animals including lions, elephants, and various bird species. Entry: $8-12 USD.

Cap Bon Peninsula: The surrounding region offers beautiful coastal scenery, hiking opportunities, and traditional fishing villages to explore.

Entertainment and Activities

Carthage Land: A large amusement park with rides, water attractions, and entertainment shows. Perfect for families with children. Entry: $15-25 USD.

Golf Courses: Several world-class golf courses in the area, including Golf Citrus and Golf Yasmine, offering challenging play amid beautiful Mediterranean scenery.

Water Sports: Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and diving excursions are available at various beach locations.

Hammam (Turkish Bath): Traditional bathhouses offering relaxing spa treatments and authentic North African wellness experiences.

Where to Stay in Hammamet?

Luxury Hotels and Resorts

Radisson Blu Resort & Thalasso: A premium beachfront resort featuring thalassotherapy spa treatments, multiple restaurants, and elegant accommodations. Rooms from $120-200 USD per night.

Laico Hammamet: A sophisticated 5-star hotel with beautiful gardens, private beach access, and extensive facilities including pools, restaurants, and spa services. Rooms from $150-250 USD per night.

Hotel Samira Club: An upscale all-inclusive resort with traditional Tunisian architecture, private beach, and comprehensive amenities. Rooms from $100-180 USD per night.

Mövenpick Resort & Marine Spa: Luxury accommodation with marina views, world-class spa facilities, and gourmet dining options. Rooms from $140-220 USD per night.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Dar Hayet: A charming boutique hotel with traditional décor, beautiful gardens, and personal service. Rooms from $60-90 USD per night.

Hotel Résidence Mahmoud: Comfortable accommodation with pool, restaurant, and convenient location near the medina. Rooms from $40-70 USD per night.

Vincci Nozha Beach & Spa: A modern hotel offering good value with beach access, multiple pools, and spa services. Rooms from $50-80 USD per night.

Hotel Primasol El Mehdi: Family-friendly hotel with animation programs, pools, and all-inclusive options. Rooms from $45-75 USD per night.

Budget Hotels and Guesthouses

Hotel Manar: Basic but clean accommodation in the town centre, within walking distance of major attractions. Rooms from $25-40 USD per night.

Pension Salma: A simple guesthouse offering authentic local hospitality and budget-friendly rates. Rooms from $20-35 USD per night.

Hotel Les Jasmins: Modest hotel with essential amenities and a central location. Rooms from $30-50 USD per night.

Résidence Bousten: Apartment-style accommodation suitable for longer stays, with kitchen facilities. Rooms from $25-45 USD per night.

Best Areas to Stay

Medina Area: Historic charm with walking access to cultural sites, traditional restaurants, and an authentic atmosphere. It can be noisy and crowded.

Yasmine Hammamet: Modern resort area with luxury hotels, golf courses, and entertainment facilities. More expensive but well-planned and tourist-friendly.

Central Hammamet: Balanced location between historic sites and modern amenities, offering good access to both the beach and cultural attractions.

Coastal Strip: Beachfront location with easy access to water activities and seaside dining, though it can be busy during peak season.

Food and Dining in Hammamet

Local Specialities

Couscous: Tunisia’s national dish, typically served with lamb, chicken, or vegetables and a rich broth. Friday couscous is a local tradition.

Brik: Crispy pastry filled with egg, tuna, capers, and herbs, often served as a starter. A delicious introduction to Tunisian cuisine.

Merguez: Spicy lamb sausages are often grilled and served with bread and harissa sauce.

Harissa: A fiery chilli paste that accompanies most meals, made from red peppers, garlic, and spices.

Mechouia: A grilled vegetable salad with tomatoes, peppers, and onions, dressed with olive oil and spices.

Makroudh: Traditional semolina pastry filled with dates and soaked in honey, perfect with mint tea.

Fresh Seafood: Grilled fish, calamari, and prawns feature prominently in coastal restaurants.

Top Restaurants in Hammamet

Restaurant Dar Hayet: Elegant dining in a beautiful riad setting, serving refined Tunisian cuisine with international influences. Mains $15-25 USD.

Le Barberousse: Atmospheric restaurant within the medina walls, specialising in traditional Tunisian dishes and fresh seafood. Mains $10-20 USD.

La Bella Marina: Waterfront dining with spectacular sea views, offering Mediterranean cuisine and excellent seafood. Mains $12-22 USD.

Restaurant Sheherazade: Traditional Tunisian restaurant with authentic décor and live music, serving classic dishes in a cultural setting. Mains $8-18 USD.

Chez Achour: Local favourite known for excellent couscous and traditional preparations, popular with both tourists and residents. Mains $6-15 USD.

Restaurant de la Medina: Charming restaurant in the old city serving home-style Tunisian cuisine in a family-run atmosphere. Mains $8-16 USD.

Villa Sebastian: Upscale dining in the historic villa, featuring international cuisine and a beautiful garden setting. Mains $18-30 USD.

Cafés and Patisseries

Café Sidi Bou Hdid: Traditional café in the medina serving strong coffee, mint tea, and pastries while watching local life unfold.

Pâtisserie Mosaïque: French-style bakery offering croissants, pastries, and excellent coffee, popular with both locals and tourists.

Café des Nattes: Atmospheric café with traditional seating on woven mats, serving tea, coffee, and light snacks.

Café Andalous: Stylish café with outdoor seating, serving speciality coffees, fresh juices, and light meals.

Dar Zaghouan: Traditional tea house offering a variety of teas, local sweets, and shisha in a relaxed setting.

Bars and Nightlife

Café Maure: Traditional café serving tea and coffee with occasional live music and cultural performances.

Hotel Bars: Most major hotels have bars serving international drinks and cocktails, often with live entertainment.

Yasmine Hammamet: The resort area features several bars and nightclubs, particularly busy during summer months.

Beach Clubs: Seasonal beach bars offering cocktails, music, and sunset views along the coastline.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Nabeul (15km)

Famous for its pottery and ceramics, Nabeul is the provincial capital and centre of Tunisia’s pottery industry. Visit workshops where artisans create beautiful hand-painted ceramics, explore the Friday market, and enjoy fresh seafood at seaside restaurants.

Sidi Bou Said (70km)

One of Tunisia’s most photographed villages, featuring distinctive blue and white architecture perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. Stroll cobbled streets, visit art galleries, and enjoy mint tea at Café des Nattes while taking in spectacular views.

Carthage (75km)

Ancient Carthaginian ruins, including the Antonine Baths, Carthage Museum, and archaeological sites spanning Punic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. A UNESCO World Heritage Site for history enthusiasts.

Tunis Medina (65km)

The capital’s UNESCO-listed old city features the famous Zitouna Mosque, traditional souks, and hundreds of historical monuments. Allow a full day to explore this fascinating labyrinth of medieval streets.

El Jem (120km)

Home to one of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatres, this UNESCO site rivals Rome’s Colosseum. The adjacent museum displays beautiful mosaics and artefacts from the Roman period.

Kairouan (130km)

Tunisia’s spiritual capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring the Great Mosque of Kairouan, traditional carpet weaving, and Islamic architecture dating from the 7th century.

Kelibia (30km)

A charming fishing port with a dramatic clifftop fortress, beautiful beaches, and excellent seafood restaurants. Perfect for a half-day excursion.

Korba (25km)

A traditional agricultural town known for its orange groves and authentic local markets, offering insight into rural Tunisian life away from tourist areas.

Practical Information for First-Time Visitors

Currency

The Tunisian Dinar (TND) is the local currency. As of 2025, 1 USD equals approximately 3.10 TND, though rates fluctuate. ATMs are widely available in Hammamet, and major credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and tourist shops. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.

Language

Arabic is the official language, with French widely spoken due to colonial history. English is increasingly common in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning basic Arabic greetings will be appreciated by locals.

Safety Tips

Hammamet is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Avoid walking alone late at night, keep valuables secure, and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas. The medina is safest during daylight hours when shops are open and streets are busy.

Health

Medical Care: Good medical facilities are available in Hammamet, with the nearest major hospital in Nabeul. Many hotels have medical staff or can arrange doctor visits.

Water: Bottled water is recommended for drinking, though tap water is generally safe for brushing teeth and washing.

Sun Protection: The Mediterranean sun is intense, especially during summer. Use high SPF sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade during midday hours.

Vaccinations: No special vaccinations are required for Tunisia, though routine vaccinations should be up to date.

Cultural Customs and Etiquette

Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. In the medina and traditional areas, covering shoulders and knees is respectful. Beachwear is appropriate only at beaches and pools.

Ramadan: During the holy month, many restaurants close during daylight hours. Respect fasting locals by not eating or drinking publicly during the daytime.

Tipping: Tipping is customary. Leave 10-15% at restaurants, round up taxi fares, and tip hotel staff $1-2 USD per service.

Bargaining: Expected in souks and markets. Start at about 30% of the asking price and negotiate patiently and politely.

Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, and avoid taking pictures of military installations or government buildings.

Business Hours

Shops: Generally open 9:00-12:00 and 15:00-19:00, with longer hours during summer and tourist season.

Restaurants: Most serve lunch 12:00-15:00 and dinner 19:00-23:00.

Government Offices: Monday-Friday 8:30-13:00 and 15:00-18:00, closed Friday afternoon and Saturday.

Banks: Monday-Friday 8:00-11:00 and 14:00-16:00, closed weekends.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Most hotels, restaurants, and cafés offer free Wi-Fi. Internet connectivity is generally good in tourist areas. Local SIM cards are available for unlocked phones, with companies like Tunisie Telecom and Ooredoo offering reasonable data packages.

Transportation Tips

Taxis: Yellow taxis are the most convenient local transport. Agree on fares beforehand or ensure the meter is working. Night rates are higher.

Louages: Shared taxis for longer distances, departing when full. An authentic and economical way to travel between towns.

Rental Cars: International driving permits are required. Driving is on the right side, and traffic can be chaotic in urban areas.

Suggested Itineraries

One Day in Hammamet

Morning: Explore the medina and kasbah, visit the museum, and browse traditional souks. Afternoon: Relax at Hammamet Beach, enjoy a seaside lunch, and try water sports. Evening: Dinner at a traditional restaurant, followed by a stroll through the illuminated medina.

Two Days in Hammamet

Day 1: Follow the one-day itinerary above. Day 2: Day trip to Nabeul for pottery shopping and Sidi Bou Said for stunning views and cultural immersion.

Three Days in Hammamet

Day 1: Explore Hammamet’s medina, kasbah, and beaches. Day 2: Day trip to Carthage and Tunis for historical and cultural exploration. Day 3: Visit local attractions like Friguia Park or golf courses, with afternoon shopping and spa treatments.

One Week in Hammamet

Combine the above with day trips to El Jem, Kairouan, and Kelibia. Include time for relaxation, multiple beach visits, cooking classes, and deeper cultural exploration.

Hammamet offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and relaxation that captures the essence of Tunisia’s Mediterranean charm. Whether you’re seeking ancient history, pristine beaches, or authentic cultural experiences, this coastal gem promises memories that will last a lifetime.