Sfax, Tunisia's second city (330,000 inhabitants) and economic capital of the South, boasts one of the best-preserved medinas in the Maghreb, listed by UNESCO in 2025.
Sfax, Tunisia's second city (330,000 inhabitants) and economic capital of the South, boasts one of the best-preserved medinas in the Maghreb, listed by UNESCO in 2025. Still encircled by its 9th-century ramparts and pierced by 11 monumental gates, it is one of the few medinas to harbour authentic local life untouched by tourism. A business city and major phosphate port, Sfax is also the base for reaching the Kerkennah Islands, with their preserved charm.
The site has been inhabited since the Phoenician era (Taparura, 9th century BC). Under Rome, the city becomes an important port for olive oil from the Sahel region. In the 3rd century, Christianity flourishes (Christian basilicas, mosaics). Vandals (439) then Byzantines (533) maintain their presence.
The Arab conquest (7th century) transforms the site. The present-day city is founded in 849 by the Aghlabids. The ramparts (2.5 km) are built during this era, pierced by 11 monumental gates still visible today. Under the Fatimids then the Hafsids, Sfax becomes a major trading port (olive oil, cereals, silk). The Great Mosque dates from 850. In the 16th century, the Spanish then the Ottomans dominate it. In the 18th century, the city resists several European attacks.
Under French protectorate rule (1881–1956), Sfax becomes the economic capital of the South thanks to phosphates from Gafsa and the commercial port. The Second World War causes significant damage. After independence, the city undergoes massive industrialisation (IFFCA, ICCM, olive groves). In 2025, the medina is listed by UNESCO as an 'exceptional living medina'. Today, Sfax combines heritage with economic dynamism.
8 must-see sites selected by our local team.
Aghlabid medina still encircled by ramparts (2.5 km), pierced by 11 monumental gates. Bustling souks (goldsmiths, perfumers, weavers), 9th-century Great Mosque, kasbah, madrasas. UNESCO 2025.
Main monumental gate of the medina, beautifully restored. Sculptures, inscriptions, vaults. Former seat of the Ottoman Diwan (council).
Built in 850 by the Aghlabides. Arcaded courtyard, prayer hall with 7 naves, rectangular minaret. One of the oldest still active in the Maghreb.
Medieval citadel south of the medina housing the regional museum. Traditional costumes, jewellery, reconstructions of Sfaxian dwellings.
Tunisia's most famous goldsmiths' market (alongside Tunis). Filigree gold jewellery, silver, amber. Sfaxian speciality: hand of Fatma.
Archipelago 18 km offshore: Gharbi (western island) and Chergui (eastern island). Wild beaches, palm groves, traditional charfia fishing (palm fish traps), 14,000 inhabitants.
Ottoman guard tower (17th century) at the north-west corner of the ramparts. Well-preserved military architecture.
Restored 17th-century traditional dwelling. Columned patio, rooms decorated with stucco and faience. Showcases Sfaxian art of living.
A journey through the eras that shaped Sfax.
Fortified medina founded in 849 by the Aghlabides. Ramparts spanning 2.5 km, 11 m high, 80% still intact. 11 monumental gates (Bab Diwan, Bab Charqi, Bab El Jebli, Bab Bhar...). Regular grid layout around the great mosque. Living, non-touristy medina, UNESCO-listed 2025 as an 'exceptional living medina'.
One of the oldest mosques in the Maghreb still active. Arcaded courtyard, prayer hall with 7 naves, 22 m rectangular minaret. Architectural model for Sahel mosques. Restored in the 19th century.
Medieval citadel south of the medina. Triangular layout, 3 gates, corner towers. Served as residence for Ottoman governors (16th-19th centuries) then converted into a regional museum (1965).
Typical Sfaxian aristocratic dwelling: columned patio, mokhtars (reception rooms decorated with stucco and faience), terrace, cistern. Restored and converted into a museum of Sfaxian arts and traditions.
Concerts, theatre, traditional dance in the open-air theatre.
Car: 2h (165 km via A1). SNTRI bus: 3h, 18 DT, several departures daily. Tunis–Sfax train: 4h.
Medina on foot. Cheap taxis. Bus 16 for Kerkennah port. Ferry to Kerkennah.
For its UNESCO 2025 medina, one of the most authentic in the Maghreb, still vibrant and not touristified. For Kerkennah, a pristine archipelago. To understand southern Tunisia's economic side.
1–2 days for Sfax city (medina, souks, kasbah). 1 extra day for Kerkennah (ferry required). Can be combined with El Jem (90 km north).
Yes for those who love authenticity: palm groves, thousand-year-old fisheries in palm fronds (charfia), simple but charming hotels, deserted beaches. Not for those seeking luxury or entertainment.
Very little, it's primarily an economic city. Advantage: local prices, authentic medina, warm welcome. Disadvantage: few upmarket facilities, going out is difficult.
Our local team designs your ideal Sfax programme. Private car or group place, the cheapest on the market.
