Hammamet

What is Hammamet known for?

Hammamet is Tunisia's best-known seaside resort, on the Cap Bon peninsula. It is famous for its long sandy beaches, gardens scented with jasmine (the town's emblem), and a whitewashed medina with a 15th-century kasbah overlooking the sea. It has drawn artists and holidaymakers since the early 20th century.

What are the best things to do in Hammamet?

Relax on the beaches, wander the old medina and climb its seafront kasbah for coastal views, and stroll the marina at Yasmine Hammamet. Garden lovers can visit the historic villa and park of Dar Sebastian (the International Cultural Centre). Golf, water sports and thalassotherapy spas round out the options.

What are the medina and kasbah like?

Hammamet's medina is small, walled and easy to explore, with whitewashed lanes, craft shops and cafés opening onto the sea. At its edge stands the kasbah, a 15th-century fortress whose ramparts give lovely views over the old town, the beach and the Mediterranean. It is far more relaxed than the big-city medinas.

What is Yasmine Hammamet?

Yasmine Hammamet is a purpose-built resort zone just south of the old town, with a large marina, beach hotels, restaurants and the Medina Mediterranea development. It is the hub for package holidays and nightlife, while the historic centre keeps a quieter, more traditional feel.

How do I get to Hammamet, and how far is it?

Hammamet is about an hour (around 65 km) from Tunis by road or louage (shared taxi). The nearest airport is Enfidha-Hammamet, roughly 40 minutes away and served by many international and charter flights, with Tunis-Carthage airport also within easy reach. It is one of the most accessible resorts in the country.

What day trips can I take from Hammamet?

Hammamet is a handy base for Cap Bon and the north. You can visit Nabeul (famous for its pottery and markets) just up the coast, the capital Tunis with Carthage and Sidi Bou Said, and Roman sites inland. Kelibia and the beaches at the tip of the peninsula are also within reach.

When is the best time to visit, and is Hammamet good for families?

Late spring to early autumn (May to October) is best for the beaches, with midsummer the hottest and busiest. Hammamet is very family-friendly: calm, shallow beaches, resort hotels with pools and gentle sightseeing make it comfortable with children, which is a large part of its enduring appeal.