Imagine you’re standing on a cliff where the Mediterranean Sea stretches out below you, the breeze carries the scent of jasmine and all around you are these blindingly white buildings topped with bright blue doors that look like they’ve been plucked from a postcard.
I'm not describing a dream. That’s Sidi Bou Saïd, a picturesque village just outside the capital Tunis that is known as the “blue city” for its iconic architecture that has captivated artists, writers, and travelers for centuries.
You’re probably itching to know the best things to do in Sidi Bou Said in 2026 by now.
Well, in this article we will guide through just that. But before, let us guide you through the ways to get to Sidi Bou Said, where to stay, in what time of the year you should visit the village first.
How to Get to Sidi Bou Said from Tunis in 2026
The town is just 20 kilometers away from the capital tunis and there are essentially 3 ways to get there :
By Public Transport
hop on a train from the TGM train station in Tunis where the ride is about 30 minutes for less than 0.5 dollars (1.5 TND), and you should also consider a 10-minute walk from the station to the town which is located at the top of the hill.
A bus is also available, but we recommend you ask locals at TGM about the updates of the departure time.
By Taxi
You can take a taxi drive which will cost you less than 5 dollars from Tunis to Sidi Bou Said, but you will have to find one available in the busy capital Tunis.
Important tip : If you choose this option, make sure that the driver turns the taxi meter on when you get in to avoid being overcharged.
You can look for a mobile app called Bolt to find you the nearest Taxi to come and get you there, but it will be more expensive (15 to 20 dollars) and the cost of the ride will be fixed and approved inside the app. So don’t get confused when the driver doesn’t turn the taxi meter on.
With WildyNess
If you prefer freedom of the open road, you can ought for a rented car, and here there are two options;
- You reserve the car and go pick it up from the rental agency, which will cost you around 35 dollars.
- Contact WildyNess and the car will be dropped to where you land in Tunisia for around 40 dollars a day, and you will not have any trouble in wasting your valuable time looking for transportation to enjoy the diverse experiences.
When you get to Sidi Bou Said, you can park it here and then let us guide you through the town with our walking tour that covers most of the hidden gems of not only Sidi Bou Said but also Carthage and Medina of Tunis (the old town)
Best Time To Visit Sidi Bou Said
Sidi Bou Said shines year-round, and you can enjoy all the beauty and activities of the town, but the best time depends on your vibe.
Summer (July to August) is prime for water activities in the Mediterranean Sea. But it’s busier than other seasons since all travelers and locals go for a swim there, and it’s even busier in the nighttime.
Since it’s so hot in the middle of the day, we recommend that you do your tour in the evening time (around 16:00) and don’t forget to enjoy the sunset, which is the highlight of the place.
Late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) bring mild weather, and fewer crowds, which is ideal for artistic souls craving the village’s unique charm and calm inspiration.
It's also very hot at this time of the year in the middle of the day, so we recommend you go for your tour in the evening around 15:00 when the heat cools down.
In the winter (November to March) you can enjoy the calmness and the fact that the town isn’t busy with people all around. But the clouds will stop you from living the most magical experience, which is enjoying the magnificent views of the sun dipping into the sea from the top of the hill.
Essential Things to Do in Sidi Bou Said for First-Timers
The blue city’s white buildings and most remarkable doors make it one of the best places in northern Tunisia to snap photos, but there’s so much more beneath its surface.
From history to art to natural beauty, here are the top things to do in Sidi Bou Said that will make your 2025 visit unforgettable
Savor Bambalouni On The Main Street
While local restaurants in Sidi Bou Said are few, the main street offers a sweet treat called bambalouni, which we can describe as Tunisia's answer to the doughnut.
Grab one fresh from the fryer, dusted with sugar or chocolate as you explore. It’s a small but delicious, must-try taste of local life.
You can find the Bambalouni shop exactly here in the main street.
Grab A Souvenir From The Local Shops
When you first enter the magical small town, you will find yourself in front of local artisanal shops that sell souvenirs, bracelets, local clothes you might like.
You will also find mini doors of Sidi Bou Said, which are the most loved by travelers who want to bring something from each town they go to.
Although all vendors are welcoming and nice, this specific shop is what people like the most according to the review : La Caverne.
Have Your Guided Tour With WildyNess
Having your day trip in this magnificent city with WildyNess’ Cultural Walking Tour is probably the best way to explore the hidden gems.
the tour will give you the chance to enjoy the best views, taste local food and have the great local travel guide with you taking your imagination to another world with the stories of the city’s history and what led to it having that specific white and blue architecture and more.
Get Lost in the Narrow Streets
Go for a walk in the narrow streets of Sidi Bou Said after taking the time to enjoy your bambalouni or even when you are still enjoying the local snack just like a local person would do.
In this walk you will be mesmerized by the unique charm of Sidi Bou Said with the flowers hanging from many traditional houses with the most remarkable doors all around and the scent of jasmine coming from everywhere.
Head To The Top Of The Hill
When you are still enjoying the scent and views of the streets of Sidi Bou Said, you will find yourself so close to the top hill of the town.
When you get there, you will find yourself in front of one of the best views in the entire area, especially at sunset or sunrise time. You will be between the panoramic Mediterranean Sea view down and the white architecture of the village.
Step inside Ennejma Ezzahra Palace
Ennejma Ezzahra Palace is a testament to Sidi Bou Said unique architecture that was built and owned by Baron Redolph D’Erlanger in the early 20th century.
This French-Tunisian artist had a major role in preserving the village’s white and blue aesthetics, and his former home is now a cultural and artistic museum.
You can explore this palace with a guided tour with Jibrane who will give you a glimpse at every corner of the place and take you on a historical story about it.
Visit Museum Dar el Annabi
A beautifully preserved Tunisian home built in the early 18th century turned into a museum that offers visitors a glimpse of what life in northern Tunisia looked like back in that time.
It is truly one of the best places to connect deeply with the heritage of the village.
Sip Mint Tea at Café Des Delices
This is the best way to experience Sidi Bou Said’s sea views. Order a mint tea or Turkish coffee and listen to the waves below. It’s a serene escape that’s easily one of the top things to do here.
Have a local authentic dinner
End your day with a truly authentic Tunisian dinner at one of Sidi Bou Said's local restaurants that serve traditional dishes like kafteji, lablabi or ojja.
Try Dar El Bey which is the best one according to people’s review on Google.
Paddleboard in the mediterranean sea
Being there in the summer or even in other seasons of the year is a great chance to give paddle boarding a try in the sea that provides a close look at the hill of Sidi Bou Said and a far look into another popular mountain in Tunisia called boukarnin.
You can also swim there since the water is very still and calm even in winter cold season and enjoy the sandy beach, and you can also find great seasonal music playing.
| Activity | Best For | Estimated Cost |
| Café des Délices | Sunset & Views | $5 - $10 (Premium) |
| Bambalouni Stand | Quick Local Snack | < $1 |
| Ennejma Ezzahra | History & Music | $2 - $5 |
| Guided Walking Tour | Hidden Gems & Stories | $40 - $60 |
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Wear comfy shoes: The narrow streets are charming but uneven.
- Bring Tunisian dinars: Local shops may not take cards.
- Dress modestly: Respect local customs, especially near historical sites.
- Stay hydrated: Summer heat calls for water.
Top attractions around Sidi Bou Said
Medina of Tunis
Only around 30 minutes drive away, you can find this must-go place that should be included in your Tunisia itinerary. It is one of the first Arabo-Muslim towns of the Maghreb and a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can find so many interesting monuments, palaces and more to explore.
If you are thinking about trying local food In Tunisia, this is the best place to go to.
Explore one of our most loved tours: Tunis Medina Secrets
Carthage
Only 3 minutes drive from sidi bou said you find Carthage archaeological site which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the ancient ruins are mind-blowing for history buffs.
Carthage and la Medina of Tunis are some of the top places to visit that will add depth to your journey in Tunisia.
Let WildyNess guide you through them along with sidi bou said in a guided tour so that you can get the most of them just like Melanie and Georg did, which led to them capturing the whole thing and publishing the video on YouTube.
Read also: Your Ultimate Guide to Carthage Archeological Site : A local's Guide
La Goulette
There is also a town nearby known for its amazing seafood. Located a few minutes drive away also from sidi bou said, La Goulette is the perfect way to end your day with.
L’Aquarius is one of the best restaurants we suggest you enjoy the experience at.
National Museum of Bardo
It is one of the most important museums in the Mediterranean region and the second museum of the African continent after the Egyptian Museum of Cairo by richness of its collections.
Its open hours are typically from 9:30 to 16:30 from Tuesday to Sunday. The entrance fee is less than 5 dollars, but Sunday is free for visitors to access without a fee.
It’s about a 40 minutes drive from Sidi Bou Said and 15 minutes from the Medina in Tunis.
Read also: 10 Best Museums to Visit in Tunisia (From a Local)
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