Some cities wear their history lightly, others carry it proudly on their walls. Sousse does both. Sitting right on the Mediterranean coast, Sousse is a city where ancient stone meets salty sea air, where daily life unfolds inside walls that have stood for more than a thousand years.
Sousse feels vibrant and grounded at the same time. It’s lively without being chaotic, historic without feeling frozen. Whether you’re wandering through the old Medina or strolling along the promenade, the city always feels open and welcoming.
History of Sousse
Sousse has a long and layered past. Originally founded by the Phoenicians, it later became an important Roman city known as Hadrumetum. Under Arab rule, Sousse developed into a key coastal stronghold and trading center, protected by massive walls and fortifications that still define the city today.
During the Aghlabid period in the 9th century, Sousse flourished as a religious, military, and commercial hub. Its strategic location made it vital for controlling the coastline — and that importance is still visible in its architecture. Walking through Sousse, you’re constantly reminded that this city was built to last.
The Medina of Sousse – Alive and Authentic
The Medina of Sousse is one of the best-preserved in North Africa, and it feels wonderfully alive. Unlike some historic centers that exist mainly for tourists, this Medina is still very much part of daily life.
Narrow streets wind between whitewashed houses, small shops, bakeries, and workshops. The smell of spices mixes with freshly baked bread, and locals greet each other as they pass. This is the place to slow down, look around, and let the city reveal itself naturally.
The Ribat of Sousse – Where Faith and Defense Met
One of the most striking landmarks is the Ribat of Sousse. This ancient fortress once served as both a military stronghold and a spiritual retreat for warrior-monks guarding the coast.
Climbing to the top of the watchtower is absolutely worth it. From here, you can see the Medina, the harbor, and the endless Mediterranean beyond. Standing there, you really feel how important Sousse once was — and how closely its fate was tied to the sea.
The Great Mosque of Sousse – Quiet Strength
The Great Mosque of Sousse is very different from the grand, ornate mosques you might expect. Built like a fortress, it reflects the defensive needs of the time.
Inside, the atmosphere is calm and understated. No excess decoration — just stone, arches, and light. It’s a place that invites reflection rather than spectacle, and it perfectly captures the character of early Islamic architecture in Tunisia.
Sousse Archaeological Museum – Roman Echoes
Located inside the Kasbah, the Sousse Archaeological Museum offers a deeper look into the city’s Roman past. The mosaic collection is impressive, with detailed scenes of mythology, daily life, and nature.
What I liked most is how quietly powerful the museum feels. It doesn’t overwhelm you — instead, it fills in the historical gaps, helping you understand just how important this region once was.
Walking the Souks – Markets and Souvenirs
No visit to Sousse is complete without exploring its markets. Inside the Medina, small souks sell everything from spices and ceramics to leather goods and handwoven textiles.
This is the place to buy souvenirs — not rushed, not mass-produced, but personal. Take your time, talk to the shopkeepers, and don’t be afraid to negotiate politely. Even if you don’t buy much, the experience itself is worth it.
The Seafront and Promenade – A Different Pace
After the intensity of the Medina, the seafront offers a completely different rhythm. Palm-lined streets, cafés, families strolling in the evening — Sousse softens by the sea.
It’s the perfect place to sit with a drink, watch the sun go down, and reflect on the day. The Mediterranean has a calming presence here, balancing the city’s historical weight with light and openness.
Getting to Sousse by Louage
Traveling to Sousse is surprisingly simple. From Hammamet, you can easily take a louage, Tunisia’s shared taxi system. It’s affordable, efficient, and widely used by locals. Louages leave once they’re full and take you directly to the main transport hub in Sousse.
From there, it’s easy to continue your journey. You can either hop on another louage if needed, or simply take a regular taxi — nothing fancy, just a standard city taxi — straight to the Medina or city center. It’s straightforward, quick, and part of everyday life in Sousse.
Read here my blog how to travel with the louage!
