The centre of Hammamet is divided into two main areas: the modern part to the north, and the medina, in the western part, surrounded by a wall originally constructed in the year 904. This enclosure houses a fortified kasbah, dating back to the 15th century, built on the site of a 12th century fort. From there you will enjoy incomparable views over the old town and the Mediterranean Sea.
Unlike in other North African towns, in the Hammamet medina the streets are not bursting with souks. It is really a residential neighbourhood where there is no shortage of workshops and craft and souvenir shops. Many of these houses are wonderful to look at and photograph, as many stand out for their colourful walls. Even the German painter Paul Klee could not resist portraying these houses in one of the most popular places to visit in Tunisia!
You will also find the occasional hamman, a typical Arab public bath that gives its name to the town.
A building that you can't miss is the Great Mosque, from the 12th century, with Arab and Turkish architectural elements. Next to it is the Mosque of Sidi Abdel Kader; erected in 1798, it is the seat of a school of Koranic studies. And last on the list of must-see-places is the Spanish Fort, from the 15th century.
If you want to relax with a bit of retail therapy, then why not visit the so-called new medina, which is full of shops and restaurants.
Just 6 km south of Hammamet, on the road to Sousse, you can explore the archaeological site of Pupput, with interesting Roman remains from the 2nd century AD.
Due to its strategic location, Hammamet is also an ideal place for excursions to other nearby towns and cities. One of which is Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque town of whitewashed buildings with blue doors and windows. The same could be said of the spectacular Roman amphitheatre of El Djem, from the 3rd century AD one of the best preserved Roman stone ruins in the world, and is unique in Africa. And finally we must mention the city of Kairouan, which has a fascinating architectural heritage, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988 it was an important centre for Islamic scholarship and Quranic learning, attracting a large number of Muslims from various parts of the world, next only to Mecca and Medina.
30 km from Hammamet sits the town of Grombalia, whose bustling market is well worth visiting. During the second half of September, its inhabitants celebrate the Harvest Festival.
