Sousse Governorate landscape

Sousse Governorate

Pearl of the Sahel

737K Population (gov)2,669 km²140km from TunisBest: Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Sousse Governorate stands as Tunisia's premier coastal destination, crowned by its UNESCO World Heritage medina and stretching along the golden Sahel coastline. This historic region seamlessly blends 1,400 years of Islamic architecture with modern resort amenities, from bustling souks and ancient ribat fortress to Port El Kantaoui's marina paradise. Home to the magnificent El Jem amphitheater and vibrant nightlife, Sousse offers perfect cultural immersion and Mediterranean relaxation.

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UNESCO Medina with 9th-century Islamic architecture

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20km Sahel coastline from Sousse to Port El Kantaoui

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El Jem Amphitheater - third-largest Roman colosseum

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Port El Kantaoui marina resort with golf and luxury

Must-See Landmarks

Explore the treasures that make Sousse unforgettable

Culinary Delights

Taste the authentic flavors of Tunisia

Local Specialties
Traditional dishes you must try

Fish Couscous

Steamed semolina with sea bass and rich broth

Brik Ă  l'Oeuf

Crispy pastry with egg, tuna, and herbs

Ojja

Scrambled eggs with tomatoes, peppers, and merguez

Lamb Mechoui

Slow-roasted lamb with Sahel spices

Recommended Restaurants
From fine dining to local favorites

Restaurant du Peuple

€

Authentic family-run restaurant

Must-try: Complete traditional meals

Restaurant Café Seles

€€

Rooftop views with Mediterranean cuisine

Must-try: Tunisian/Mediterranean fusion

L'Escargot

€€€

French-Tunisian fusion, romantic setting

Must-try: Fine dining experience

Le Pirate

€€

Seafood specialist with harbor views

Must-try: Fresh daily catch

Activities & Experiences

Immerse yourself in culture and adventure

Historical & Cultural
  • Medina Walking Tours
  • Ribat Fortress
  • Archaeological Museum
  • Great Mosque
Beach & Marina
  • Port El Kantaoui
  • Beach Relaxation
  • Water Sports
  • Golf Courses
Day Trips
  • El Jem Amphitheater
  • Monastir Visit
  • Mahdia Excursion
  • Catacombs of Sousse

Where to Stay

Find the perfect area for your visit

Sousse Medina
Historic, authentic, cultural immersion

Hotel Medina

Budget

Traditional riad setting

€35-55/night

Best for: Culture enthusiasts, history lovers

Beach Resort Zone
Modern, beachfront, family-friendly

Marhaba Beach

Mid-range

Beachfront resort

€70-120/night

Movenpick

Luxury

Premium beachfront

€150-280/night

Best for: Beach holidays, families

Port El Kantaoui
Upscale marina, golf, luxury amenities

El Ksar Resort

Luxury

Marina luxury resort

€200-350/night

Best for: Golf enthusiasts, luxury seekers

Practical Information

Everything you need to know for your visit

Best Time to Visit
Perfect

April-June, September-October (17-27°C, ideal for all activities)

Hot

July-August (26-33°C, perfect beach weather)

Mild

November-March (11-17°C, mild winter escape)

Daily Budget Guide
Budget100-150 TND (€32-48)
Mid-range200-300 TND (€65-97)
Luxury400-600 TND (€129-194)
Suggested Stay Duration
Minimum2 days
Recommended3-4 days
Comprehensive5-7 days

Getting Around

Transportation options

From Tunis
Multiple transport options
Louage10 TND (1.5h)
Train6 TND first class (2h)
Bus12 TND (2.5h)
Local & Regional
Getting around the Sahel region
Sahel Metro3 TND to Monastir/Mahdia
Yellow taxiVarious distances
City busesLocal transport

Insider Tips

Local secrets and photography spots

Photography & Sightseeing
  • Best photography: Ribat tower at sunset
  • Medina narrow streets early morning
  • Catacombs of Sousse for fewer crowds
  • Marina north of Port El Kantaoui for authentic atmosphere
Cultural Etiquette
  • Respect prayer times at mosques
  • Dress modestly at religious sites
  • Medina morning visits before tour groups
  • Haggle respectfully in traditional markets

Quick Reference

Emergency Contacts

Police: 197 or 112

Airport Emergency: +216 73 520 000

Medical & Tourist Info

Hospital: +216 73 221 411

Tourist Info: +216 73 225 157

Explore Sousse Governorate - Tunisian Travel Guide