A Stroll Through the Hammamet Medina, an Icon of Tunisian Tourism

In the 1970s, the city of Hammamet marked the beginning of tourism development in Tunisia. Today, alongside Sousse and the island of Djerba, Hammamet remains the country’s most significant tourist enclave. This North African destination is steadily working to regain the levels of European visitors it saw prior to the onset of the Arab Spring in late 2010.

Entrance gate to the Medina of Hammamet, Tunisia

It is therefore natural that when planning a trip to Tunisia—a Mediterranean country whose primary attractions include its long, fine-sand beaches—you would look to Hammamet as your primary destination for stays in five-star hotels or major seaside resorts. Traditionally, for many travelers, it serves as the initial or final stop on an itinerary designed to explore the country’s interior, leading toward the gates of the Sahara Desert. Furthermore, during a multi-day stay in Hammamet, you can embark on half-day excursions to highly attractive enclaves such as Sidi Bou Said, the Roman Colosseum of El Jem, or Kairouan.

But what is there to see in Hammamet?

Right from the start, I will tell you that this is a city of approximately 80,000 residents with a very tourist-friendly atmosphere, where, in addition to grand hotels, there is an abundance of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Indeed, due to its relative proximity to the Tunisian capital, Hammamet is a very popular destination where Tunisians often spend their weekends.

In the Yasmine Hammamet resort district, which emerged in the 1990s as an extension of the city and serves as the hub for major hotels and seaside resorts, you will find a marina filled with pleasure boats, perfect for enjoying short coastal excursions.

Hammam in the medina of Hammamet, Tunisia

There is also what is known as the “new medina,” a modern shopping center featuring various shops and restaurants. However, the true charm of Hammamet lies in its medina.

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In the heart of the city, by the seaside, you will find a fortified medina adjacent to a 15th-century Kasbah, built atop an earlier 12th-century fortress. After parking your vehicle near the beach, where boats and fishing nets rest, you will pass through a gate to enter the medina.

Do not expect narrow alleys filled with a bustling souk; this is a residential medina where you will be living, and in some of its streets, you will find artisanal shops and souvenir stalls.

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Artist in the Hammamet Medina, Tunisia

These are narrow alleys, some so tight that they barely accommodate a single person. The contrast between the white walls and the colorful wooden doors of the houses stands out vividly. One can also find several hammams—public Moorish baths used alternately by men and women—the tradition of which gives the city, Hammamet, its name.

In certain corners, you will find artistic showcases from several artists residing in the Hammamet medina, whose studio-boutiques are also open to visitors.