Welcome to Sidi Bou Said, one of Tunisia’s most popular destinations. The town is famous for its Blue and White buildings, which are painted extensively around a clifftop village overlooking the blue azure waters of the Mediterranean.
10 Things To Do in Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
Sidi Bou Said village is next to Carthage and it is located about 15 kilometers to the North of Tunis. If you are planning a trip to this wonderful village, here are the best things to do in Sidi Bou Said.
#1. The Mediterranean Garden
The Mediterranean garden (Le Jardin Méditerranéen) of Sidi Bou Said, is a pure Mediterranean garden that was inaugurated back in 2003. It was financed by the Principality of Monaco as a gift to Tunisia.
In this garden, you can find many typical Mediterranean plants such as Palm trees, Cactus, Jasmine flower trees, Orange trees, and more.
Suggested Read: Jasmine: Tunisia’s National Flower
It is actually very satisfying to rest there, under the sound of birds chirping in the trees.
#2. Watch the Sunset in Sidi Bou Said
Whether you believe it or not, there is no denying that viewing the sun set in Sidi Bou Said is spectacular.
Sidi Bou Said is actually one of the best places in Greater Tunis to watch the sunset. The Blue and White buildings along with the Mediterranean azure waters are such a perfect setting to watch the sun go down.
#3. Wander the Streets of Sidi Bou Said
Most likely, you have already come across the iconic Blue and White photos of Sidi Bou Said. Maybe that’s how Sidi Bou Said made it onto your “must-see” list. It worked for us!
Well, wandering the streets of Sidi Bou Said, is actually of of the best activities you can do, both for locals and tourists. The village is amazing with all its White and Blue buildings, and very unique charm. Every corner and door in it begs a photo.
#4. Treat Yourself with a Mechmoum
A Mechmoum is a small flower bouquet or necklace made of jasmine or fell, specific to Tunisia.
As soon as you arrive in Sidi Bou Said, you will find Mechmoum vendors almost everywhere. Men have worked there for decades and still selling their mythical Mechmoums and putting smiles on visitors’ faces.
#5. Bambalouni Sidi Bou Said
Tourists usually refer to it as the very tasty North African donut. Bambalouni is a sweet Tunisian donut. You can get yours from one of the fast food shops in Sidi Bou Said.
Bambaloni is prepared with a flour dough that is mixed and stringy, and thrown in some nice hot oil to get crispy. It is crispy on the outside and very soft and warm on the inside.
The Bambaloni is eaten sprinkled with sugar or soaked in honey.
#6. Explore Sidi Bou Said
Feel free to explore all of Sidi Bou Said. It is such a unique place to be, worth a visit at night and during daytime as well.
Explore the narrow walkways, go souvenir shopping, hop from café to café, and be prepared to fill your camera’s memory card with tons of photos. This is one of Mediterranean most photogenic villages.
#7. Enjoy the View from the Top of the Cliff
A visit to Sidi Bou Said would not be complete without going to admire the magnificent view which overlooks Amilcar and the port of Sidi Bou Said. From the top of the cliff, the view is breathtaking.
A perfect spot to disconnect, but also to take pictures, for photography lovers!
#8. Dar El Annabi, Sidi Bou Said
Dar El Annabi is located in the famously blue neighborhood of Sidi Bou Saïd. It was originally built near the end of the 18th century. In the 20th century, it was redeveloped as a summer resort.
It is now a museum showing the typical Islamic architecture on the outside and the atmosphere and lifestyle of a traditional Tunisian family on the inside.
Visitors can go inside and explore the private library, prayer hall, lounges, bedrooms, the Andalusian garden, and terraces that offer a view of the surrounding terraces. The actual museum showcases a traditional Tunisian lifestyle.
#9. Coffee & Tea
There are plenty of Cafés and tea shops that you can stop by and enjoy some quality time in Sidi Bou Said.
Late night cafés are most preferred by the locals, Sidi Bou Said’s unique ambience and majestic views impart a feeling of refreshment and relaxation.
#10. Dar Zarrouk, Sidi Bou Said
Dar Zarrouk restaurant is located in a stunning environment, overlooking the Port of Sidi Bou Said and the Gulf of Carthage.
Dar Zarrouk restaurant offers a panoramic view where guests may also contemplate the site of ancient Carthage. The restaurant offers a luxury category gourmet.
MORE RESOURCES AND INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO SIDI BOU SAID:
- Paradise is Real? A virtual Tour in Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
- Tour of SIDI BOU SAID, Tunisia’s Most Beautiful Town?
If you would like to comment on this article or anything else you have seen on Carthage Magazine, leave a comment below or head over to our Facebook page. You may also message us via this page.
And if you liked this article, sign up for the monthly features newsletter. A handpicked selection of stories from Carthage Magazine, delivered to your inbox.
