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Things to Do in Hammamet

Things to Do in Hammamet

Hammamet Tunisia Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Hammamet's coastal setting offers opportunities for active exploration.

Water Sports

Jet Skiing

Available from numerous vendors along the main beaches of Hammamet and Yasmine Hammamet. A thrilling way to experience the coastline from the water.

Parasailing

Offered at various points along the coast, giving you a bird's-eye view of Hammamet and the Mediterranean as you glide through the air.

Banana Boat Rides

These are popular and fun activities for families and groups, a bouncy ride over the waves.

Land Activities

  • Windsurfing/Kitesurfing: Conditions are generally good, especially in spring and autumn.
  • Scuba Diving: Local dive centers offer trips for both beginners and certified divers.
  • Camel Rides: Offered on the beach or as part of organized excursions to nearby rural areas.
  • Quad Biking: Tours are available in the surrounding rural areas and scrubland outside the main town.

Golfing

  • Hammamet is a well-regarded golf destination.
  • Citrus Golf Course: Two 18-hole courses.
  • Yasmine Golf Course: An 18-hole course.
  • Both courses offer club rentals and instruction.

Fishing

  • Local fishing trips arranged through Yasmine Hammamet Marina.
  • Or directly with local fishermen in the old port area.
  • Experience traditional fishing methods.
  • Enjoy the sea from a local perspective.

Safety Note

  • Always prioritize safety.
  • Follow operator instructions.
  • Wear appropriate gear.
  • Assess weather conditions before participating.

Important Reminders for Activities

Water sports vendors are typically seasonal. Confirm availability during your visit.

Cultural Immersion

Engage deeply with Tunisian culture through interactive experiences.

Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking Classes: Many hotels or local tour operators offer Tunisian cooking classes. Learn traditional dishes.
  • Pottery Workshops: In Nabeul, observe artisans at work and sometimes participate in a short hands-on session.
  • Language Learning: Learning a few basic Arabic or French phrases is highly appreciated by locals.
  • Community Interaction: Interact with local shopkeepers or dine at family-run guesthouses for daily life insights.

Cultural Performances

International Festival of Hammamet

Held annually in July and August at Dar Sebastian. Features international and local music, theater, and dance performances.

Hotel Entertainment

Some larger hotels may offer evenings with traditional Tunisian music or dance performances as part of their entertainment program.

Cultural Events

Local religious holidays (like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) are important cultural events. You might observe special preparations.

Thalassotherapy

Hammamet is renowned for its thalassotherapy centers. These specialized spas use seawater for therapeutic treatments.

Yoga & Meditation

While dedicated retreats are less common, some wellness-focused hotels might offer yoga classes. Beachfront settings are conducive to personal practice.

Traditional Healing

Less formalized for tourists, traditional Tunisian herbal remedies and practices exist. Inquire locally for specific interests.

Relaxation & Wellness

Hammamet is a popular destination for relaxation, known for its extensive wellness facilities.

Spa & Thalassotherapy

  • Thalassotherapy: Hammamet is renowned for its thalassotherapy centers.
  • La Badira Spa: Highly regarded for its sophisticated treatments and tranquil atmosphere.
  • Radisson Blu Resort: Features a large, modern thalassotherapy center.
  • Hammam: Experience a traditional Turkish bath for a thorough scrub and massage.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Extensive Facilities

Many hotels, especially in Yasmine Hammamet, feature extensive pool areas with swim-up bars, sun loungers, and private beach sections.

Relaxing Environment

These clubs provide a relaxing environment for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying refreshments by the water.

Private Beach Access

Many resorts provide direct private beach access for their guests.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music Venues

Some larger hotels and resorts feature live music in their bars or lounges, offering a mix of traditional Tunisian music or international pop.

Nightclubs and Dancing

Mainly found within larger hotels and resorts in Yasmine Hammamet. Some standalone clubs might open during peak season.

Shisha Lounges

Cafes serving water pipes are popular throughout Hammamet, offering a relaxed setting for conversation and enjoying flavored tobacco.

Shopping & Markets

A wide range of goods, from traditional crafts to modern items.

Traditional Markets & Souks

  • Hammamet Medina Souk: The main tourist market within the Hammamet Medina.
  • It offers a wide range of traditional Tunisian goods, including leather products, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs.
  • Nabeul Market: A short trip from Hammamet. A larger, more authentic weekly market, renowned for pottery, spices, and fresh produce.
  • Bargaining is expected in the souks.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Pottery

Nabeul is the center for Tunisian ceramics. Visit workshops to see artisans at work and purchase directly.

Leather Goods

Find bags, wallets, belts, and shoes, often handcrafted, in the souks.

Textiles & Jewelry

Traditional Tunisian carpets, hand-woven blankets, embroidered clothing are popular. Silver and gold jewelry often features traditional designs.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Ceramics (especially from Nabeul).
  • Leather items, small carpets or kilims.
  • Olive wood carvings, traditional clothing.
  • Local food products like harissa or dates.

Luxury Shopping

  • Limited in Hammamet.
  • Mainly found within high-end hotels.
  • May have their own boutique shops.
  • Yasmine Hammamet has some modern shops around the marina.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans directly.
  • This ensures your money benefits the community.
  • Preserves traditional crafts.
  • Bargaining is expected, but be fair.

Shipping and Customs Information

Shipping
  • If you purchase large or fragile items, inquire about shipping options from the vendor.
  • Shipping from Tunisia can be expensive, so weigh the cost against the item's value.
  • Confirm delivery times and insurance options.
Customs
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations regarding permissible imports.
  • Keep receipts for larger purchases.
  • Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species.

Shopping Tip

Do not feel pressured to buy. Enjoy the experience of browsing and interacting with vendors. A friendly "no, thank you" or "shukran" (thank you) usually suffices if you are not interested.

Activity Planning Summary

What to Do

  • Enjoy water sports on Hammamet's beautiful beaches.
  • Relax at world-class thalassotherapy centers and spas.
  • Immerse yourself in Tunisian cuisine through cooking classes or food tours.
  • Play a round of golf at one of Hammamet's renowned courses.

When to Go

  • Summer (June-August): Ideal for beach activities and water sports, but crowded.
  • Shoulder Seasons (April-May, Sep-Oct): Pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Winter (Nov-March): Quieter, cooler, good for cultural exploration and wellness.
  • Check local festival calendars for special events during your visit.