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Just around 25 km from Tunis on the northern Mediterranean coast lies the coastal village of Sidi Bou Said.
The strong and consistent colors of the buildings, pure whites and blues complemented by the turquoise sea, are simply beautiful, while the narrow, winding cobbled streets all add to the charm. It is this iconic look that has made the town so popular with artists, particularly in the early part of the twentieth century, but in fact it was only on the initiative of one European resident of Sidi Bou Said, the Baron d’Erlanger, that the village adopted its uniform colors.
Today, the Baron’s Mansion is open to visitors, and the rooms are a testament to his considered taste, and offer a flavor of his artwork and music, as well as extravagant North African design. It is a wonderful way to experience the style of Sidi Bou Said. Another house 鈥� Dar Annabi 鈥� is also open, but while parts are of interest, not least the roof from which the panoramic views are exquisite, it lacks the elegance of the Baron’s home, and is often crowded with tourists.
The best way to enjoy a visit to Sidi Bou Said is to sample a mint tea with pignons (pine nuts) at one of its emblematic cafés 鈥� either the Café des Nattes, with a most traditional interior replete with cushions and shisha pipes looking upon the street into the heart of Sidi Bou Said, or the Café Sidi Chaabane, offering stunning views over the marina.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Tunisia specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
Carthage City Tour
One of the best ways to begin a visit to Carthage is to take a view of it from on high. The Byrsa Hill looks out over the whole city and the vista extends to the mountains of the Cap Bon beyond the Gulf of Tunis.
Dougga & Bulla Regia Excursion
While some might argue that Tunisia does not possess a stunning draw, such as the Pyramids of Giza, or the ancient city of Petra, there is little doubt that Dougga is the pinnacle of the Roman presence in Tunisia, and looks out majestically over the hills.
The Bardo Museum
Tunisia's most celebrated museum exudes history throughout. The inside of the museum is famous primarily for its vast and unparalleled collection of mosaics, gathered from the floors of Tunisia's Roman sites and carefully arranged in the rooms.
Tunis Medina Tour
Medina comes from the Arabic word for city, and it refers to the old quarter of Tunis. Your first entry to the Medina of Tunis will most likely come through the Bab Bahr at Place de la Victoire, the Gate into the medina from Avenue Bourguiba.
