Things To Do in Sousse

You can get a feel for how Sousse’s wealthy inhabitants once lived at Dar Essid. It’s one of the oldest houses in the medina, dating back to 928 AD, but has been converted into a museum. Each floor is furnished in 19^th-century style, with ornate Andalusian tiles, opulent bed chambers, and chandeliers dangling from the ceiling. At the top of the house is a café where you can look out over the rooftops while sipping a mint tea.

When it comes to authentic restaurants, the hidden gems are squirreled away in the winding alleyways of the medina. You’ll stumble on family-run places serving a range of couscous dishes – chicken, lamb, and merguez. The royale, meanwhile, is a mix of all three. There’s also freshly grilled fish on the menu. And while you’re waiting for your food, tuck in to some salade mechouia – this smoky dip is made from red pepper, tomato and garlic.

The esplanade runs parallel to the beach. Come evening, locals gather here to linger over an espresso or smoke a shisha. For something more lively, Avenue du 7 Novembre has a parade of bars and open-air clubs where a well-heeled crowd dances to European and Arabic tunes. Belly dancers and the occasional big-name DJ entertain ‘til late, too.