Hammamet is a city in Tunisia that is definitely worth visiting.
Just a stone's throw from Italy, yet on another continent, lies a paradisiacal place perfect for a holiday: welcome to Hammamet. Here you can enjoy an unforgettable stay, surrounded by natural and cultural beauty.
It’s surprisingly easy to cross continents and discover lands culturally different from our own, even if they are actually very close to home. Just land in places that are authentic gems, where the sea seems like a dream and the architecture evokes poetic landscapes.
To experience what has just been mentioned, all you need is to take a flight and head to Tunisia, a fascinating country in North Africa which, among its many tourist destinations, hides a true gem to discover: Hammamet.
Hammamet welcomes you with its characteristic jasmine scent, which will accompany you throughout your stay. It is located southeast of Cape Bon, on the eponymous gulf, and is a highly appreciated destination by both local and international tourists.
It should come as no surprise that this city, dating back to Roman times, is rich in history and paradisiacal places. Over the years, it has been visited by many famous tourists, including prominent politicians like Winston Churchill and talented writers like Gustave Flaubert.
In ItalyHammamet became famous as the last residence of the socialist leader Bettino Craxi during his exile, from May 12, 1994, until his death in January 2000. It’s no surprise, then, that many Italians come here to pay their last respects, as he rests in the city cemetery.
When you hear the name Hammamet, you immediately think of total relaxation, that kind of tranquility that rejuvenates and makes you feel good. The name Hammamet derives from “hammam,” the famous and fascinating Arab thermal complexes, which are present here thanks to a series of springs that release waters with therapeutic and rejuvenating properties. These waters can make us feel well-being both physically and spiritually.
This particular city in Tunisia offers much more. Beyond the beautiful white beaches caressed by a sea so clear it invites you to swim again and again, there are also numerous water sports activities to enjoy. After relaxing in its thermal baths, Hammamet also offers a lively nightlife with venues, DJ sets, and internationally renowned festivals to discover.
Furthermore, the ancient monuments of this city are especially guarded by the walls of the Medina, which is one of the most magnificent in the entire country. These monuments testify to an unforgettable and glorious past.
In Hammamet, you can admire the blue sea, golden beaches, and white buildings decorated with the vibrant blue and green of the vegetation, similar to those in Greece. This color combination creates a pleasant atmosphere and invites you to explore even more of the city’s soul.
To do this, it’s essential to start from the historic center, where narrow streets and colorful stalls lead, step by step, to discovering ancient monuments that leave you speechless.
An example of what has just been mentioned is the majestic Fort, called the Kasbah in Arabic. This structure was built to defend the city from possible invasions coming from the sea. You can visit it by walking along its walls, from which you can admire a spectacular view of the labyrinthine alleys of the Medina and the waves of the sea.
A must-see place in the city is the International Cultural Center of Dar Sebastian, located in one of the most beautiful villas built in Hammamet. It’s interesting to know that when architect Frank Lloyd Wright first entered it, he was completely fascinated by the luxury and elegance of the place, stating it was the most beautiful house he had ever seen.
The beauty of this structure is evident in its marbles, columns, and spacious areas, making it a true masterpiece. Now, during the summer months, concerts are organized inside. An interesting curiosity is that Winston Churchill chose this place to write his memoirs.
Next, there is the recently developed area of Yasmine, located between the Port of Kelibia and that of El Kantoui. This area is characterized by large green spaces, parks, and traditional shops. It also offers a wide selection of modern hotels and entertainment venues.
The Sea of Hammamet
As mentioned earlier, Hammamet is also renowned for its beautiful beaches washed by a turquoise sea. However, to be honest, not all are a true paradise: unfortunately, on some occasions, public beaches are not sufficiently clean.
Private beaches are authentic wonders, characterized by a lively atmosphere and equipped with every imaginable service. With their sandy and soft seabeds, they are ideal for young people, families with children, and the elderly, especially because the enchanting sea is usually calm.
The surroundings of this particular Tunisian city also offer exciting attractions to visit. There are many destinations to include in your itinerary, one of which is just a few steps from the city and is called Pupput. It is a Roman archaeological site that preserves the remains of baths, houses with internal courtyards, fountains, and high-quality mosaics. There are also inscriptions, installations, a theater, and an amphitheater.
This area is of great importance, as it is located only 300 meters from where the largest Roman necropolis in Africa was found.
Also, Nabeul, known as ancient Neapolis, is a beautiful city considered the Capital of Ceramics. Besides being a charming coastal town, it is also the perfect place to immerse yourself in a unique mix of culturelocal traditions and beautiful beaches.
Then there is Kairouan, which was the ancient capital of the Aghlabid emirs and is now considered the fourth holiest city in the Arab world. It is also called the “city of three hundred mosques” because there are so many, and it is famous for the Great Mosque of Uqba, a very sacred place for Islam. Not to be overlooked is the Barber’s Mosque, where it is said one of the Prophet’s best friends who had a lock of his beard with him is buried.
Finally, I recommend visiting Kelibia, a seaside city that has much to offer. Here you will find important monuments, such as the majestic Byzantine fortress dating back to the 6th century, which overlooks the port. Additionally, you can admire archaeological remains and enjoy the beautiful and unspoiled beaches of the area.
In conclusion, Hammamet and its surroundings are a place that should be seriously considered as a destination to visit.