Mahdia Governorate

Peninsula of Golden Silk and History

77K Population (city)2,966 km²200km from TunisBest: Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Mahdia enchants visitors with its authentic Tunisian character, stretching along a narrow peninsula surrounded by deep Mediterranean waters. Former capital of the mighty Fatimid dynasty, this coastal gem preserves centuries of maritime heritage through legendary silk weaving traditions and its pristine fishing port. The white-washed medina, crowned by imposing Skifa Kahla gateway, leads to golden beaches ranking among Tunisia's finest.

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Skifa Kahla gateway - imposing 10th-century fortified entrance

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Silk weaving heritage with traditional workshops

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Premier fishing port - Tunisia's largest fishing harbor

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Golden coast beaches with pristine white sand

Must-See Landmarks

Explore the treasures that make Mahdia unforgettable

Skifa Kahla (Black Gate) 🚪

Imposing 10th-century fortified entrance

See in Google Maps

Great Mosque of Mahdia 🕌

Historic Fatimid-era mosque

See in Google Maps

Borj el-Kebir Fortress 🏰

Coastal fortress with panoramic views

See in Google Maps

Silk Weaving Workshops 🧵

Traditional workshops creating world-renowned fabrics

See in Google Maps

Culinary Delights

Taste the authentic flavors of Tunisia

Local Specialties

Traditional dishes you must try

Octopus Salad

Fresh seafood with lemon and local olive oil

Chakchouka Mahdia

Spicy stew with peppers, tomatoes, and egg

Fish Couscous

Traditional grain with Mediterranean catch

Mahdia Brik

Flaky pastry stuffed with almonds, local dessert

Recommended Restaurants

From fine dining to local favorites

Café Sidi Salem Elghar

€€

Clifftop panoramic views

Must-try: Grilled fish

Le Pécheur Mahdia

€€

Harbor-side fresh daily catch

Must-try: Seafood specialties

Café El-Medina

€

Central medina location

Must-try: International and Tunisian

La Bamba

€€

Beachside dining

Must-try: Seafood specialties

Activities & Experiences

Immerse yourself in culture and adventure

Historical & Cultural

Medina Walking Tours
Silk Workshop Visits
Fortress Exploration
Maritime Museum

Coastal Activities

Beach Relaxation
Fishing Port Visits
Harbor Walks
Sunset Photography

Water Activities

Swimming
Diving (Roman shipwreck)
Boat Trips
Marine Cemetery Visits

Where to Stay

Find the perfect area for your visit

Northern Tourist Zone

Beachfront luxury, family-friendly

El Mouradi Mahdia

Luxury

Beachfront luxury

€100-200/night

Best for: Families, beach lovers

Medina Historic Quarter

Authentic atmosphere, cultural immersion

Dar Al Madina

Mid-range

Traditional guesthouse

€40-80/night

Best for: Culture seekers, authenticity

Practical Information

Everything you need to know for your visit

Best Time to Visit

Perfect

April-June, September-October (16-27°C, ideal for exploration)

Hot

July-August (26-32°C, perfect for beaches)

Mild

November-March (10-17°C, occasional showers)

Daily Budget Guide

Budget90-120 TND (€30-40)

Mid-range180-270 TND (€60-90)

Luxury450+ TND (€150+)

Suggested Stay Duration

Minimum1 day

Recommended2-3 days

Comprehensive4-5 days

Getting Around

Transportation options

From Tunis

Long distance connections

Train via Sousse15-20 TND (3-4h)

Bus12-18 TND (3h)

Car2h 45min drive

Local Transport

Getting around Mahdia

Taxi2-8 TND (often shared)

Regional trainTo Monastir/Sousse

WalkingFree in medina

Insider Tips

Local secrets and photography spots

Cultural Experiences

Visit silk workshops early morning to see artisans
Marine cemetery at sunset for magical photography
Watch fishing boat departures at 4 AM
Avoid louage station area after dark

Hidden Gems

Walk around peninsula's southern tip for secluded coves
Roman shipwreck diving site discovered in 1907
Traditional fishing village atmosphere
Best diving opportunities in the area

Quick Reference

Emergency Contacts

Police: 197

Local Police: +216 73 680 018

Coast Guard: +216 73 680 625

Medical & Tourist Info

Hospital: +216 73 681 555

Tourist Info: +216 73 682 220