Hammamet, referred to as Tunisia's Saint Tropez, is to the south of Tunisia's Cap Bon peninsula, 10km (6 miles) southwest of Nabeul and 64km (40 miles) south of Tunis.
Hammamet, referred to as Tunisia's Saint Tropez, is to the south
of Tunisia's Cap Bon peninsula, 10km (6 miles) southwest of Nabeul and 64km (40
miles) south of Tunis.
The sophisticated resort overlooks the turquoise waters of
the Gulf of Hammamet and boasts a perfect 10km (6 mile) stretch of beach, ancient
and exciting medina, healing mineral baths and renowned top class modern
hotels.
It has come a long way since its origins as a sleepy fishing
village before its potential as a holiday destination was discovered in 1920 by
the Romania millionaire George Sebastian Today it has become a popular package
tour destination with many of the hotels to the north and south catering for cheap
package tours, while the more upmarket hotels have moved 10km (6 miles) further
south to an area known as Yasmine Hammamet.
However despite the surge of modern-day tourism, Hammamet has
retained its sense of exotic history dominated by its 15th century
medina and souk. Tourist flock here to marvel at the labyrinth of alley ways
packed with traders selling carpets, brass ornament, jewellery, pottery and
leather goods.
The main attraction
here remains the stunning stretch of palm-fringed beach and inviting crystal
clear sea. Coupled with glorious weather, water sports, wonderful restaurants
and an exotic history, Hammamet has all the trappings of the perfect holiday
destination.
During the months of
July and August the high levels of humidity and day time temperatures reaching 32°C
make Hammamet unbearably hot for many. The months of June and September are
also hot, but less humid, with May and October being the ideal months for a
beach holiday.
The average monthly
temperatures are:
|
°C |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
|
Day |
15 |
17 |
18 |
20 |
24 |
28 |
32 |
32 |
29 |
25 |
20 |
17 |
|
Night |
8 |
7 |
9 |
11 |
14 |
18 |
21 |
22 |
20 |
17 |
12 |
9 |
Most of the shopping
in Hammamet is to be had in the vibrant and bustling Medina. This is probably
one of the most memorable parts of anyone’s trip to the area. Enjoy mingling
with the locals and fellow tourists while you haggle for carpets, pottery,
leather goods, jewellery and souvenirs.
There is also a daily
Municipal Market on the avenue de la République which is excellent for fruit
and vegetables.
If you are looking for
pottery, you must visit nearby Nabeul which has countless shops and workshops
in which to find your ideal piece.
If you venture further
along the coast to Yasmine Hammamet you will find an altogether more exclusive
shopping experience. Although it has its own modern medina, the main draw here
for shopperholic and their wallets is the shopping mall with its upmarket
clothing stores.
Whether you want to
sit and enjoy a meal or party, there is something for everything in Hammamet.
Although there are many discos, bars and clubs within the hotels on the area,
the nightlife isn’t confided to them. There are some great clubs and bars in
the town such as:
If you prefer a
gamble, head for Yasmina Hammamet which has its own casino.
If you want to explore
more of Tunisia during your stay, many hotels are able to organise excursions
for you. Here are just a few places of interest close by that you might like to
visit.
You are advised not to
drink the tap water in Hammamet and you should always ensure you have
comprehensive medical cover in place before travelling.
Although crime isn’t a
huge problem, you should take care when carrying around valuables especially in
crowded areas.
