Nabeul at a glance
About twenty minutes from Hammamet, Nabeul is a real Tunisian town, lively all year round, with its craft workshops, souks and a long beach. It is the capital of the Nabeul governorate, which covers Cap Bon, a region of orchards, citrus groves and vineyards.
In antiquity the town was called Neapolis; part of its remains can still be seen by the sea. Today Nabeul is best known for its colourful ceramics, found all over Tunisia.
What to see in town
The shopping streets in the centre are lined with shops selling pottery, painted ceramics and woven mats. Take time to step into a workshop: many craftsmen still work by hand and are happy to let you watch.
The weekly market, famous throughout the region, mixes fresh produce, spices, crafts and livestock. In spring, Nabeul distils orange blossom: orange blossom water and neroli are typical buys. Nearby, the village of Dar Chaâbane specialises in stone carving.
- The pottery and ceramics workshops
- The weekly market
- The remains of Neapolis
- Dar Chaâbane and its stonemasons
The best day trips from Nabeul
Nabeul is the natural starting point for the Cap Bon tour: the UNESCO-listed Punic town of Kerkouane, Kelibia fort above a turquoise sea, the Roman quarries of El Haouaria and the hot springs of Korbous.
Friguia Park is about 40 minutes away, Zaghouan and Zriba less than an hour. For Carthage and Tunis, allow just over an hour's drive; for Kairouan, El Jem or Dougga, plan a full day.
Practical information
Nabeul is about 50 minutes from Enfidha-Hammamet airport and just over an hour from Tunis-Carthage. When buying crafts, compare a few shops before deciding: prices are negotiable.
Your driver collects you from your hotel or holiday rental in Nabeul and brings you back in the evening.
Our excursions from Nabeul
Frequently asked questions
Is Nabeul far from Hammamet?
No, only about twelve kilometres, or around twenty minutes by road. Many visitors staying in Hammamet come to Nabeul for the market and the pottery.
Which excursion should I take from Nabeul?
The Cap Bon tour (Line 4) is the obvious choice. With children, Friguia Park makes an easy half-day out.
When is the orange blossom season in Nabeul?
The trees blossom in spring, usually around March and April. This is when the traditional distillation takes place.
