Key Takeaways:
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Sfax offers an authentic Tunisian experience with its preserved medina, coastal walks, and vibrant cultural festivals.
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The city’s mix of heritage, nature, and urban charm make it ideal for travelers year-round.
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Visitors can explore everything from historic architecture and local markets to island day trips and beach strolls.
Sfax, Tunisia’s second-largest city, sits along the Mediterranean coast with a soul rooted in tradition and industry. Founded in the 9th century, it remains one of the country’s most authentic urban centers, largely untouched by mass tourism. What makes Sfax special is its preserved medina, flavorful cuisine, and the unique way it blends coastal charm with cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, attending festivals, or catching sea breezes at Taparura, Sfax is a perfect year-round destination for curious travelers seeking real connections and off-the-radar experiences.
Table of Contents
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Discover the Medina of Sfax
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Visit Dar Jellouli Museum
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Relax Along Taparura Coastal Walk
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Attend the International Festival of Sfax
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Take the Ferry to Kerkennah Islands
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Explore the Kasbah of Sfax
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Enjoy Traditional Tunisian Street Food
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Browse Local Markets and Souks
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Visit the Sfax Archaeological Museum
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Walk the Teniour Nature Trails
1. Discover the Medina of Sfax
The walled medina of Sfax is one of the most intact and authentic in all of Tunisia. Originally built in the 9th century, its narrow alleyways and thick city walls have witnessed centuries of trade, culture, and tradition. As you walk through the medina, you’ll pass by whitewashed homes, historical mosques, and artisans crafting everything from ceramics to silver jewelry. The Great Mosque of Sfax, nestled at its core, is an architectural gem open to respectful visitors.
Exploring the medina feels like stepping back in time. It’s a living neighborhood—not just a tourist attraction—so expect to see local families shopping for fresh produce or sipping coffee at tiny cafés. The absence of flashy signs or mass tourism gives it a deeply genuine atmosphere. Take your time, chat with vendors, and soak in the energy of Sfax’s heartbeat.
2. Visit Dar Jellouli Museum
Housed in a beautifully preserved 17th-century mansion, Dar Jellouli is a must-visit for anyone interested in Tunisian heritage and traditional life. The museum exhibits include antique furniture, hand-woven textiles, and historic clothing that paint a vivid picture of Sfax’s upper-class households from centuries past. Intricate woodwork and Andalusian arches frame each room, turning your museum stroll into a cultural immersion.
Outside, a peaceful courtyard filled with potted plants and mosaic tiles creates a photogenic and serene break from the urban buzz. Friendly guides are available to share context about the exhibits, and signage is often translated into multiple languages. It’s not a huge museum, but it’s thoughtfully curated and extremely atmospheric. Dar Jellouli is a quiet but powerful window into Sfax’s artistic and domestic traditions.
3. Relax Along Taparura Coastal Walk
Taparura is one of the newest and most ambitious urban development projects in Sfax, revitalizing the city’s long-neglected coastline. While the beachfront isn’t yet a full-fledged resort area, it’s become a favorite walking path for locals seeking sea views, fresh air, and open space. Wide promenades stretch along the Mediterranean, making it an ideal place to jog, bike, or enjoy a peaceful sunset.
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit, when the sun casts soft light across the sea and palm-lined sidewalks. While amenities are still growing, there are nearby cafes where you can grab mint tea or a sandwich to enjoy outdoors. Taparura offers a relaxing break between more historical or cultural excursions. It’s proof that Sfax is evolving while staying true to its roots.
4. Attend the International Festival of Sfax
Every summer, the International Festival of Sfax lights up the city with music, theater, dance, and artistic performances. Held at venues like the Roman amphitheater-style Arena in Bab Diwan, this festival brings together international artists and local talent for several weeks of celebration. From traditional Tunisian folklore to jazz, rock, and experimental art, the event showcases the city’s creative spirit.
Expect pop-up food stalls, gallery exhibitions, and late-night performances that attract both locals and travelers. While most of the schedule is in Arabic or French, the atmosphere is universal—welcoming and full of energy. If you’re lucky enough to visit during festival season, this is a can’t-miss experience. It’s Sfax at its most alive and connected.
5. Take the Ferry to Kerkennah Islands
Just off the coast of Sfax lies the archipelago of Kerkennah—low-key islands known for their slow pace, sandy beaches, and traditional fishing culture. Ferries leave multiple times a day and take about an hour, making it an easy day trip or overnight escape. Once on the islands, rent a bike or scooter and explore palm groves, coastal ruins, and quiet beaches perfect for shell collecting or sunbathing.
The islands feel a world away from mainland bustle. You’ll find that time slows down here, with hand-thrown fishing nets drying in the sun and fresh seafood grilled on roadside stands. There are a few small hotels and guesthouses if you choose to stay longer. Kerkennah is where you go to breathe deeply and enjoy simplicity.
6. Explore the Kasbah of Sfax
Tucked along the southern wall of the medina, the Kasbah of Sfax is a striking example of medieval Islamic fortification and architecture. Originally a military structure during the Aghlabid dynasty, it has been transformed into a museum and cultural center that showcases the city’s urban development over the centuries. Visitors can explore towers, lookouts, and old prison cells while enjoying panoramic views of the medina from the upper levels. Informative exhibits detail the construction and significance of the Kasbah in both historical and modern contexts.
The surrounding area is beautifully maintained with open courtyards and shaded spaces, ideal for photography or quiet contemplation. It’s especially impressive at sunset, when golden light spills across the stone walls. Unlike some of the more bustling medina landmarks, the Kasbah offers a calm, reflective experience. History lovers will appreciate the immersive storytelling that this fortress provides.
7. Enjoy Traditional Tunisian Street Food
One of the best ways to experience Sfax is by eating your way through it—starting with its iconic street food. Try a kaak warka (almond-filled pastry), brik (a deep-fried pastry stuffed with egg and tuna), or grilled seafood caught fresh from the Gulf of Gabès. Street vendors around Bab Diwan and the central square near the medina serve up generous portions of local specialties at low prices.
Tunisian flavors are bold and spice-forward, often combining harissa, preserved lemon, and olive oil in exciting ways. Whether you’re grabbing a sandwich for the road or sitting down at a casual café, expect warm hospitality and big flavor. Street food in Sfax is more than just a meal—it’s a direct connection to the people and culture. Come hungry and leave inspired.
8. Browse Local Markets and Souks
Markets are at the heart of daily life in Sfax, and they’re not just for tourists—they’re where real Tunisians shop. From aromatic spice stalls and colorful fabrics to copperware and dried fruits, each souk has its own specialty. The Souk El Rbaa is especially known for textiles and traditional clothing, while Souk El Grana offers authentic gold and silver jewelry.
Negotiating is expected and part of the fun, and shopkeepers are usually friendly and open to conversation. Even if you’re not buying, the sensory overload—calls from vendors, the scent of jasmine and roasted nuts, the vibrant colors—is exhilarating. Markets are busiest in the mornings, so arrive early for the best experience. If you’re looking for a true taste of Sfaxian life, this is where to find it.
9. Visit the Sfax Archaeological Museum
Located inside the historic municipal building, the Sfax Archaeological Museum offers a surprisingly rich collection of Roman mosaics, Berber artifacts, and Islamic-era relics. Though smaller than Tunisia’s national museums, it’s well-curated and deeply informative, especially if you’re interested in the region’s Roman past. Highlights include intricate mosaic floors, Punic tombstones, and ceramic vessels dating back thousands of years.
The museum provides an excellent overview of Sfax’s long human history, from ancient settlers to Islamic scholars and modern citizens. Most exhibits are labeled in French and Arabic, but English-speaking guides may be available upon request. It’s an ideal stop for a rainy day or for anyone who wants to better understand the layers beneath the modern city. For its size, this museum packs a meaningful punch.
10. Walk the Teniour Nature Trails
For a dose of nature, the Teniour area on the edge of Sfax offers light hiking, peaceful green space, and views of olive groves and farmland. These trails are especially popular among local families on weekends, but you’ll still find them quiet and relaxed. The terrain is easy to moderate, and trails are well marked for solo explorers or groups. It’s a great spot to recharge from the busy medina.
Spring is the best time to visit, when wildflowers bloom and temperatures are mild. You might encounter herders with flocks of goats or locals harvesting olives, adding cultural context to your walk. Bring water, sunscreen, and a good camera—Teniour gives you a scenic slice of rural Tunisia just minutes from the city. It’s perfect for travelers who like to blend sightseeing with fresh air.
What to do if you have kids?
Sfax is surprisingly family-friendly, offering open parks, gentle beaches, and educational attractions that appeal to children of all ages. The Dar Jellouli Museum and Kasbah provide visual learning and open space for curious minds. Families can explore the medina together or enjoy kid-safe beaches on the Kerkennah Islands. Local restaurants often offer simple dishes and sweet treats that please picky eaters. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, Sfax offers a manageable, safe, and engaging destination.
Where can I find free events in Sfax Tunisia taking place this weekend?
For free events happening in Sfax this weekend, head to PlanMyWeekend.ai. This platform curates free and low-cost experiences including live music, street fairs, art shows, local tours, and more—all updated weekly. Just search for your city, choose your dates, and explore hidden gems happening near you. It’s the fastest way to uncover what’s going on in Sfax without digging through scattered sources or missing out on real local culture.
Final Thoughts
Sfax is Tunisia’s best-kept secret—an unfiltered, history-rich coastal city that rewards explorers who want something different. Whether you’re sipping tea by the sea, haggling in a souk, or hiking through olive fields, you’ll experience a side of Tunisia that’s deeply grounded and refreshingly real. Sfax offers an incredible variety of experiences year-round, from cultural festivals to coastal escapes, and is perfect for travelers who want meaning beyond the typical tourist track. Come for a weekend—or stay longer—and you’ll see why Sfax stays with you.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
