Sidi Bou Said, a charming coastal town in Tunisia, is a must-visit destination known for its historic streets and beautiful white and blue buildings. With its breathtaking sea views and bougainvillea-laden frontages, Sidi Bou Said is a picturesque spot that should not be missed on your Tunisia itinerary. This article will provide you with everything you need to know about visiting Sidi Bou Said, including the top things to do, where to stay, and the best places to eat.
Sidi Bou Said is located just outside the capital city of Tunisia, Tunis. It is situated in a region called Carthage, which was the former capital of the country and an important trading post in Roman times. Perched on a coastal cliff, Sidi Bou Said maintains a quaint and historic charm while offering a beautiful seaside atmosphere. Many wealthy Tunisians visit Sidi Bou Said on weekends to escape the suburbs of the capital. It is a quiet and peaceful place, making it the perfect base for your first visit to Tunisia. In fact, I recommend starting your trip here rather than in the bustling capital.
From Sidi Bou Said, you can easily explore Tunis if you wish. Sidi Bou Said provides a calmer atmosphere, is small and easy to navigate, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tunisia. However, don’t let its popularity scare you away. The number of tourists here is relatively low, and most visitors are locals, which only adds to the charm of this stunning seaside town.
So why should you visit Sidi Bou Said? Well, it is a beautiful and peaceful coastal town that radiates holiday vibes. Whether you’re strolling through its charming streets, enjoying a cup of coffee with the locals, taking photos of its historic doorways, or visiting the ancient UNESCO sites nearby, Sidi Bou Said offers a safe and enjoyable experience. Its charm is beyond compare, and it is the perfect place to ease into your Tunisia trip.
If you enjoyed visiting Chefchaouen in Morocco, you will definitely fall in love with Sidi Bou Said, which I consider even more enchanting, especially because it is not as well-known. It is currently in the process of becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so I highly recommend visiting before it becomes more crowded.
To delve into the history of Sidi Bou Said, evidence of human settlement in this area dates back to Roman times, as well as the Phoenician rule. The village began to develop in the 11th century under the Almoravids, but it did not become the town we see today until the 17th century. During this time, wealthy Tunisians were attracted to the clean sea air and built the beautiful traditional Arab-Andalusian houses that still exist today. Since 1915, all houses in Sidi Bou Said have been required to adhere to the strict blue and white color scheme, which adds to the town’s beguiling allure. Simone de Beauvoir, Matisse, André Gide, and Michel Foucault were among the artists and thinkers from North Africa and Europe drawn to Sidi Bou Said by its stunning architecture and alluring setting. The town developed a bohemian ambiance that can still be felt in its cafes, shops, and overall atmosphere.
Now, let’s talk about the top things to do in Sidi Bou Said. First and foremost, I recommend simply wandering through the streets and immersing yourself in the town’s charm. While not a specific activity, Sidi Bou Said is the kind of place where you can get lost without a plan and truly enjoy yourself. Explore the shops, stop for a tea or coffee, admire the sea views, and capture countless photographs. For the best photo opportunities, head to Rue Taieb Mhiri and its adjoining alleys, where you’ll find gorgeous blue wooden doorways and whitewashed walls adorned with bougainvillea. Another must-visit spot is the city panorama platform on Rue Taieb Mhiri, as well as the Sidi Bou Said Lighthouse, which is not too far away.
If you’re in the mood for relaxation, head to the Sidi Bou Said beach, located next to the harbor. Accessible via a steep road, this beach is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. While the beach itself is free, you can rent loungers and parasols if you wish. Water sports equipment is also available for rent if you’re feeling more active.
In addition to its natural beauty, Sidi Bou Said is home to several historical sites worth exploring. Musem Dar el-Annabi, Palace Dar Nejma Ezzhar, and Palais Dar Turki are my top picks. The latter also serves as a guesthouse and wedding venue, but you can usually wander through the gardens and peek inside the historic house and courtyard, which showcase the classic Arab-Andalusian style commonly found in Tunisia.
If you’re not staying in a traditional Dar in Sidi Bou Said, visiting this spot will give you a glimpse into what these accommodations look like. Another traditional space in town is Marsaoui Hammam, where you can experience a classic Tunisian bath. This tourist-friendly hammam offers an authentic sauna and scrub experience in a clean and genuine environment. It is open every day except Tuesday, with separate hours for men and women.
Lastly, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous Carthage ruins and Punic Harbor located just outside of Sidi Bou Said. These two historical sites are of great importance, with the ruins even being UNESCO-listed. Carthage was once the capital of the African province of the Roman Empire and a major Mediterranean trading port. Today, the historical site consists of city ruins, battle sites, monuments, and museums related to the ancient empire. The Carthage Punic Port and Museum are must-visit attractions, along with the Carthage National Museum. While you can explore these sites independently, I recommend hiring a guide to enhance your understanding of what you’re seeing. There are great half-day walking tours available, as well as guided cycling tours that add an active element to your visit.
Now that you know what to do in Sidi Bou Said, let’s talk about where to stay. The best accommodations in Sidi Bou Said are local apartments or guesthouses known as Dar. These establishments offer modern comforts while maintaining traditional décor that perfectly captures the essence of Sidi Bou Said. Dar Fatma is a great option, providing double rooms with beautiful views of the coast from its rooftop terrace. Dar Said offers a mix of rooms, ranging from deluxe doubles to standard singles. It is conveniently located in the heart of Sidi Bou Said and offers a clean and comfortable stay with a warm welcome. La Villa Bleue is another excellent choice with a great location, parking facilities, and delicious breakfast options. The views from this property are stunning, and it even has a pool for your enjoyment.
When it comes to dining in Sidi Bou Said, Café des Nattes is a must-visit. Great artists and thinkers have frequented this traditional café since the 18th and early 19th centuries, and it has remained almost unchanged to this day. Enjoy a cup of coffee or mint tea while imagining the conversations that took place here in the past.
In conclusion, Sidi Bou Said is a beautiful coastal town in Tunisia that should not be missed. Its historic streets, stunning architecture, and peaceful ambiance make it a perfect holiday destination. Whether you’re wandering through its charming alleys, relaxing on its beaches, exploring its historical sites, or indulging in local cuisine, Sidi Bou Said offers a delightful experience for all. So, make sure to include this enchanting town in your Tunisia itinerary and discover its many wonders before it becomes too popular.
