Hammamet at a glance
Hammamet stretches along a long bay of fine sand, just south of Cap Bon. The town first made its name in the 1920s thanks to the European artists and writers who stayed here, before becoming a major seaside resort. It falls into two parts: the historic centre around the medina, and Yasmine Hammamet, the newer tourist area to the south, with its marina and large hotels.
What makes Hammamet so good for excursions is its location. By motorway, Tunis is about an hour away, Sousse just over an hour, and the roads of Cap Bon begin at the edge of town. Few places make it so easy to explore.
What to see in town
The walled medina facing the sea takes an hour or two to explore: white lanes, blue doors, and the kasbah with views over the whole bay. Right next to it, the seafront and the old seaside cemetery are perfect in the late afternoon.
In the hotel district, George Sebastian's villa, now the International Cultural Centre, hosts the Hammamet International Festival every summer in its open-air theatre. Towards Yasmine, the marina and Medina Mediterranea, a reconstructed medina, make for easy evening strolls. The Roman remains of Pupput, between the two, are a reminder that this coast was already inhabited in antiquity.
- The medina and the kasbah, ideally in the morning or at sunset
- The International Cultural Centre and its gardens
- Yasmine Hammamet marina
- The beaches, quieter towards the north of town
The best day trips from Hammamet
For a first visit, Carthage, Sidi Bou Saïd and the Tunis medina make up the classic day out, about an hour's drive away. History lovers can head further south to El Jem and Kairouan, or to the temples of Dougga.
If you prefer nature, the Cap Bon tour (Kerkouane, Kelibia, El Haouaria, Korbous) starts almost on your hotel's doorstep, and Zaghouan with the Berber village of Zriba is less than an hour away. With children, Friguia Park is only half an hour away: half a day is enough.
Practical information
The nearest airport is Enfidha-Hammamet, about 45 minutes away; Tunis-Carthage is just over an hour away. Yellow taxis run all over town; for excursions, a private vehicle saves you connections and fixed timetables.
Your driver collects you directly from your hotel reception, whether you are staying in the centre, in Yasmine or in an apartment: simply give the address when you book.
Our excursions from Hammamet
Frequently asked questions
What is the closest excursion to Hammamet?
Friguia Park, half an hour's drive away, followed by Nabeul and Cap Bon. For a full day without a long drive, Zaghouan and Zriba are less than an hour away.
Can you visit Tunis and Carthage in one day from Hammamet?
Yes, that's our Line 1: Carthage, Sidi Bou Saïd and the Tunis medina, leaving in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.
Does the driver come to Yasmine Hammamet?
Yes, pick-up is at the address of your choice in Hammamet and Yasmine Hammamet, at no extra cost.
