Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Sidi Bou Saïd is arguably the most beautiful village in Tunisia: cobbled lanes, white houses with blue doors and shutters, cascading bougainvillea and a light that has enchanted generations of artists. Just twenty minutes from Tunis, it’s the essential day out. Here’s what to do to visit Sidi Bou Saïd, where to stay and where to sip mint tea overlooking the gulf.
Why visit Sidi Bou Saïd?
Listed and protected for its architecture, the village inspired painters such as Paul Klee and August Macke. People come to wander aimlessly, get lost in the alleys, enjoy a pine-nut tea on a terrace and take in one of the finest sunsets over the Bay of Tunis. Half a day is enough, yet you’ll always want to linger longer.
What to do in Sidi Bou Saïd: the highlights
Wander the blue and white village
The real joy of Sidi Bou Saïd is to walk at random: the cobbled main street that climbs uphill, the studded and carved doors, the mashrabiyas, the craft stalls. Every corner is a postcard.
The Café des Nattes
A village institution at the top of the main street, this historic café is recognisable by its staircase and traditional woven mats. The perfect spot for a mint tea in a timeless setting.
The Ennejma Ezzahra palace
The residence of the Baron d’Erlanger, a magnificent palace with Andalusian gardens overlooking the sea, today houses the Centre for Arab and Mediterranean Music. A refined visit, away from the crowds.
Dar el-Annabi
This traditional house open to the public immerses you in the Tunisian art of living: patios, period furniture, a rooftop terrace with a view. Ideal for understanding the local architecture.
The marina and the lighthouse
Below the village, the marina lines up its boats in a pretty setting; higher up, the lighthouse offers a superb panorama over the Gulf of Tunis.
Bring home a souvenir
Sidi Bou Saïd is famous for its ceramics, its painted birdcages, its jewellery and craft objects. Haggle with a smile.
Where to stay in Sidi Bou Saïd
Staying in the village means enjoying the magic once the day visitors have gone. From charming guesthouses to hotels with sea views, there’s something for every taste.
👉 Browse our hotels in Sidi Bou Saïd.
Where to eat in Sidi Bou Saïd
Between a bambalouni (sweet doughnut) eaten in the street, grilled fish by the sea and a mint tea on a panoramic terrace, gourmet pleasures are everywhere. Tables overlooking the gulf are well worth it at sunset.
👉 Our best restaurants in Sidi Bou Saïd.
What to do around Sidi Bou Saïd
- Carthage — the famous ancient ruins, just minutes away.
- Tunis and its UNESCO-listed medina.
- La Marsa — its seafront and beach, to extend the day.
Practical tips
- Getting there: the TGM train from Tunis Marine (about 30 min), or by taxi.
- When: early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the light.
- Duration: half a day is enough, a full day if you combine it with Carthage.
- Good to know: cobbled, sloping lanes — wear comfortable shoes.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Sidi Bou Saïd from Tunis?
The easiest way is the TGM train from Tunis Marine: about 30 minutes to Sidi Bou Saïd station, then a short walk uphill.