Top 12 Best Things to Do in Houmt Souk, Tunisia

What are the top tourist spots in Houmt Souk, Tunisia?

Located on the island of Djerba, Houmt Souk is a charming town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town is bustling with various attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to soak up the local culture, the town has something for everyone.

From exploring ancient historical sites to discovering local markets and indulging in delicious cuisine, there is no shortage of things to do in Houmt Souk. Here are some of the best things to do in the fascinating town of Houmt Souk.

Djerba Traditional Heritage Museum

Housed in a restored traditional 19th-century house, Djerba Traditional Heritage Museum showcases exhibits on Djerba’s traditional way of life, culture, and religion. Visitors can explore the different sections of the museum that feature extensive collections and displays of the island’s Jewish heritage, as well as traditional textiles, woodworking tools, pottery, rugs, and jewelry.

The museum also offers guided tours and workshops to give visitors an immersive experience of traditional Tunisian culture. These include cooking classes, henna tattooing, and traditional music and dance performances.

• Visiting Hours: 9AM to 4:30PM, Saturdays to Thursdays
• Entrance Rates: 7 TND

Bordj el Kebir

Also known as Fort Ghazi Mustapha or Ghazi Mustapha Tower, this 16th-century fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich history. The fortress, built by the Ottomans in the 16th century, now serves as a museum that showcases the rich history of Djerba, including its Phoenician, Roman, and Islamic heritage.

The museum exhibits various artifacts about the island’s history, culture, and religion. In addition to the fortress’ historical significance, Bordj el Kebir is regarded as an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate details and design elements that reflect the unique cultures that have influenced Djerba over the centuries, including Ottoman, Arabic, and Berber influences.

Mosque of the Turks

Mosque of the Turks is a Tunisian historical mosque that dates back to the 9th century, making it one of the oldest mosques in Tunisia. The mosque’s beautiful architecture is a hallmark of Islamic design; the distinctive dome and minaret with intricate geometric patterns and designs adorn the walls and ceilings.

This gives a sense of the Islamic faith’s artistic and cultural expressions. The mosque was named after the Turkish pirates who lived there, a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors must follow the dress code as a sign of respect, with women required to cover their hair and wear modest clothing, and both men and women must remove their shoes before entering.

Dar Jilani

Dar Jilani is a beautifully restored 19th-century palace turned art gallery that showcases local culture, history, and skills. The palace features intricate wood carvings, stunning tilework, and intricately painted ceilings, a prime example of Tunisian architecture.

This architectural marvel now serves as a mix of a museum that exhibits traditional Tunisian art, handicrafts, and artifacts, offering glimpses into the daily lives of Tunisians in the past and an art gallery and workshop where artists turn simple materials into recycled art pieces.

• Entrance Rates: 4 TND

Marché Central Houmt Souk

A bustling marketplace in the heart of Houmt Souk, Marché Central Houmt Souk offers visitors a unique shopping experience. Tourists can browse the aisles and discover fresh produce and spices, traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, and sample local delicacies and cuisine. The marketplace is also a photographer’s dream. The colorful stalls, unique products, and interesting people create excellent photo opportunities.

Mini Souk

Another unique shopping destination with colorful shops that make for great photo opportunities, Mini Souk offers tourists a chance to purchase authentic Tunisian handicrafts. The market is filled with shops selling various traditional items, including ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and leather goods. Visitors can watch local artisans at work and even have the opportunity to purchase custom-made items.

La Ghriba Synagogue

La Ghriba Synagogue is a peaceful and serene place that offers a glimpse into Tunisia’s vibrant and diverse religious heritage. The synagogue is one of the world’s oldest and most significant synagogues, dating back over 2,000 years. It has a rich history deeply intertwined with the island’s Jewish community.

Known for its blue and white tilework and unique architecture that blends elements of Tunisian and Jewish design, La Ghriba Synagogue is a must-visit destination to learn about the traditions and customs of the Tunisian Jewish community.

Guellala Museum

Guellala Museum is dedicated to the island’s pottery tradition, with exhibits on the history and techniques of local pottery-making. The museum displays several scenes following different themes, like the island’s myths and legends, wedding fests, music, and the way of life of ordinary residents.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum showcases traditional Tunisian clothing, jewelry, and other handicrafts with cultural significance in Tunisian history and tradition. Live events are also held at the museum, where skilled artisans demonstrate traditional pottery-making and decorate it with intricate designs.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

Houmt Souk, like many Tunisian cities, has a rich culinary culture with many traditional dishes to try. Be sure to try local specialties like ‘couscous’ (steamed semolina grains served with a flavorful stew made from vegetables), ‘brik’ (a type of fried pastry that is filled with egg and tuna), ‘lablabi’ (traditional breakfast soup made from chickpeas and bread), and ‘chakchouka’ (a spicy stew made from peppers, tomatoes, onions, and eggs).

Marina Djerba

Marina Djerba is a bustling waterfront attraction in Houmt Souk that offers various activities, from water sports and boat trips to dining and shopping. While boat trips are popular, visitors can also explore the marina and browse local boutiques and souvenir shops for unique gifts and mementos or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the marina’s many restaurants and cafes.

The marina’s calm waters and the gentle breeze make it an ideal location for locals and visitors to unwind and watch the sunset.

Take a Boat Trip

Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, boat trips have become a popular activity in Houmt Souk. Visitors can explore nearby islands from the town’s marina and stop at stunning beaches and fishing villages.

There are a variety of boat trips available, including half-day or full-day excursions, sightseeing tours, sunset cruises, and fishing trips. Visitors can choose from a range of boats, including traditional wooden fishing boats, luxury yachts, and catamarans, depending on their preferences and budget.

Djerba Explore Park

Djerba Explore Park is an expansive park with various attractions that visitors of all ages can enjoy. The park showcases Tunisian history and culture through several attractions, including a traditional Tunisian village, a museum of popular arts and traditions, and an Islamic art museum. The park is also home to diverse wildlife and natural beauty, where visitors can explore the park’s gardens filled with exotic plants and flowers.

The park also features a crocodile farm, a bird sanctuary, and a zoo, where visitors can see various animals up close. Music and dance performances, puppet shows, and cultural events are also held at the park. Visitors can head to the 5D cinema and a water park for some fun and excitement.

• Visiting Hours: 9AM to 7PM (July to August), 9AM to 6PM (September to June)
• Entrance Rates: 30 TND, Adults; 20 TND, Children

Overall, Houmt Souk is a unique and charming destination that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. Whether interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Houmt Souk has something for everyone.

Our Hotel Top Picks for Houmt Souk

Follow the Out of Town Travel Blog on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest if you want more travel and tech-related updates.

Read:

• Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Tunisia
• Places to See in Dubai: How to Have a Complete Dubai Holiday
• Bucket List: Top 10 Things to do in Dubai, UAE
• Top 15 Best Things to Do in Marrakesh, Morocco