Sousse

Sousse, Tunisia's third-largest city, sits on the Mediterranean coast about 140 km south of Tunis. In this ancient port city, you can explore the winding alleys of the UNESCO-listed Medina, climb the 9th-century Ribat's tower for panoramic views, or relax on long stretches of sandy beaches. The city's Archaeological Museum houses impressive Roman mosaics, while nearby Port El Kantaoui offers modern resort amenities. Sousse also serves as a convenient base for day trips to sites like the Roman amphitheater in El Jem or the holy city of Kairouan.

Walking Through the Medina

The heart of Sousse is its Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 9th century. As you walk through the narrow streets, you'll encounter centuries-old buildings, active souks, and historical monuments. The Medina's walls, reinforced with towers and gates, encircle the old town. Explore local shops selling handicrafts, spices, and textiles, but be prepared to haggle if you want to make a purchase. In the evenings, the Medina becomes lively as locals and tourists come out to enjoy the cooler temperatures and vibrant atmosphere.

Climbing the Ribat

The Ribat, an 8th-century fortress-monastery, is one of Sousse's most recognizable structures. This well-preserved building once served as both a defensive stronghold and a place for religious study. Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the watchtower for views of the Medina and the Mediterranean Sea. In the courtyard and prayer hall, you can see how Muslim warriors once lived in this austere complex. The thick walls and strategic location of the Ribat highlight its role in defending the city against sea-based attacks.

Admiring the Great Mosque

A short walk from the Ribat stands the Great Mosque, another significant 9th-century monument. While non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, you can observe the mosque's exterior architecture, including its distinctive square minaret. The mosque's design reflects early Islamic architectural style in North Africa, with simple yet elegant elements. From outside, you can glimpse the courtyard, which gives a sense of the building's scale and layout.

Discovering Ancient Art at the Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Sousse, located in the Kasbah at the highest point of the Medina, displays a collection of Roman mosaics and other artifacts. The museum's exhibits span from the Punic period through the Islamic era, focusing on the region's Roman history. You can examine intricate mosaics, many in excellent condition, depicting scenes from daily life, mythology, and nature. The collection includes hunting scenes, sea creatures, and geometric patterns that demonstrate the skill of ancient artisans.

Relaxing on Boujaffar Beach

Sousse's long stretch of sandy beach provides ample space for sunbathing and swimming. The main beach, Boujaffar Beach, extends north from the city center with hotels and restaurants along its length. You can try water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing. For a more relaxed experience, walk along the promenade or eat a seafood meal at one of the beachfront restaurants. While the beach gets busy during summer months, you can usually find a quieter spot by walking further north.

Visiting Port El Kantaoui

About 10 km north of Sousse lies Port El Kantaoui, a resort area that opened in 1979. This modern complex includes a marina, golf courses, and numerous hotels and restaurants. While it lacks the historical elements of Sousse's Medina, Port El Kantaoui has many activities for tourists. You can take a boat trip from the marina, play a round of golf, or enjoy the beaches and resort facilities. The area is popular with families and those looking for all-inclusive holiday options.

Taking Day Trips from Sousse

Sousse's central location makes it a good base for exploring other parts of Tunisia. Some popular day trip destinations include:

• El Jem: About an hour's drive south of Sousse, El Jem is home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. The amphitheater is almost as large as the Colosseum in Rome, and you can explore its underground chambers.
• Monastir: Located 20 km south of Sousse, this coastal town is known for its Ribat fortress and the mausoleum of former president Habib Bourguiba. The Ribat here was used as a filming location for several movies.
• Kairouan: About an hour's drive inland from Sousse, Kairouan is one of Islam's holiest cities, famous for its Great Mosque and medina. The city is known for its carpet making, and you can visit workshops to see the process.

Getting Around Sousse

Within Sousse, many sites in the Medina and along the beachfront are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are common and relatively inexpensive. Ask the driver to use the meter or agree on a fare before starting your journey. The Sahel Metro, an electric train service, connects Sousse with nearby coastal towns. For day trips to other cities, you can hire a car or join an organized tour. If you're comfortable with local transportation, louages (shared taxis) are a cheap way to travel between cities.

When to Visit Sousse

Sousse has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The peak tourist season runs from June to September when the weather is hottest and driest. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, plan your visit in spring (April-May) or autumn (October-November). Winter can be cool and rainy, but still suitable for sightseeing, with fewer tourists and lower prices. Keep in mind that many beach facilities and water sports operations may close during the winter months.