
Mahdia Old Town and Port
Discover Mahdia's historic medina and charming old port, a less crowded gem offering unique crafts and coastal beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Mahdia Old Town and Port
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Mahdia's historic medina and charming old port, a less crowded gem offering unique crafts and coastal beauty.
"Lovely medina full of souvenir and textile shops, a must-visit for its charm."

🎯 Haggle for Souvenirs
Be prepared to negotiate prices in the medina; vendors may start high.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the medina's charming, winding streets with ease.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mahdia Medina
Old Town
A charming, compact medina with souvenir shops, particularly known for silver jewelry and silk scarves.
Old Port of Mahdia
Coastal Area
Watch traditional fishing boats and enjoy scenic views along the waterfront.
Skifa El Kahla (El Medina)
Medina Entrance
A significant historical gateway into the medina, offering a glimpse into its past.
Ottoman Fort
Coastal Fortification
Explore this historical fort offering panoramic views of the sea and town.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Mahdia's Medina
Port Charm and Coastal Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Haggle for Souvenirs
Be prepared to negotiate prices in the medina; vendors may start high.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the medina's charming, winding streets with ease.
📸 Capture Coastal Views
The old port and fort offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🏺 Pottery & Textiles
Look for unique local crafts like pottery and silk scarves.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Haggle for Souvenirs
Be prepared to negotiate prices in the medina; vendors may start high.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the medina's charming, winding streets with ease.
📸 Capture Coastal Views
The old port and fort offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🏺 Pottery & Textiles
Look for unique local crafts like pottery and silk scarves.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mahdia's old town and port are praised for their charm and historical significance, offering a pleasant, less crowded experience than larger Tunisian cities. Visitors enjoy the picturesque port and the unique souvenir shops in the medina, though some note the limited variety of goods beyond silver and textiles. The historical sites like the Ottoman Fort are highlights, providing great views and a glimpse into the past.
"Lovely medina full of souvenir and textile shops. The medina is quite small as it is in a resort area but the range of shops makes it worthwhile to visit."
Humeirah
"Nothing for shopping only if you want silver jewerly and silk scarf. I dont like leather flip flops and bags."
Milica Sadzakovic Mima
"Nice historical medina. Easy to walk around."
omar tariq
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mahdia is accessible by train or bus from major Tunisian cities like Tunis and Sousse. Taxis are readily available within Mahdia to reach the old town and port areas.
Yes, the medina is relatively small and easy to walk around. The port area is also easily accessible on foot.
Local taxis are the primary mode of transport within Mahdia for getting to specific points of interest like the old town and port.
Parking can be challenging in the narrow streets of the old town. It's often best to park on the outskirts and explore on foot.
Trains and buses connect Monastir and Sousse to Mahdia. Taxis are also an option for a more direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the medina itself is generally free. However, some specific historical sites within or near the old town, like the Ottoman Fort, may have a small admission fee.
The old town and port are always accessible as they are public areas. Individual shops and historical sites will have their own operating hours, typically closing in the late afternoon or early evening.
Yes, the Ottoman Fort has an entrance fee, reported to be around 8 Tunisian Dinars.
While not always advertised, local guides may be available for hire in the medina. It's advisable to agree on a price beforehand.
The Great Fatimid Mosque is a significant historical site in Mahdia. Access and visiting hours should be confirmed locally.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find souvenir shops selling textiles, ceramics, and particularly silver jewelry and silk scarves. Some visitors noted a lack of leather goods.
The medina is described as smaller than other Tunisian medinas, and can be less crowded, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
Key historical sites include the Skifa El Kahla, the Great Fatimid Mosque, the Ottoman Fort, and the ancient sea gate.
Enjoy watching the fishing boats, take a walk along the promenade, and soak in the local atmosphere.
Absolutely! The old port, the Ottoman Fort, and the charming medina streets offer many picturesque scenes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are cafes and restaurants in and around the medina offering local Tunisian cuisine. Cafés like Café Sidi Salem are popular spots.
Yes, you can find restaurants serving traditional dishes. It's recommended to ask locals for their favorite spots.
Look for fresh seafood at the port, and traditional Tunisian tagines or couscous in local eateries.
Street food and local cafes often offer more affordable meals compared to tourist-oriented restaurants.
Many Tunisian dishes are vegetable-based, so vegetarian options should be available, especially salads and vegetable tagines.
📸 📸 Photography
The old port with its fishing boats, the Ottoman Fort for panoramic views, and the narrow, atmospheric streets of the medina are prime photography locations.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the old town and port.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful when photographing people and ask for permission if necessary.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both landscapes and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can be great for the medina's narrow alleys.
The cemetery by the sea is a unique sight and can be photographed, but always approach such locations with respect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mahdia Medina
Beyond the shops, the medina is a place to experience daily life. You might find locals going about their routines, adding to the authentic feel. It's a great spot for casual exploration and discovering hidden corners. The overall impression is one of a clean and historically rich area, making it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a taste of Tunisian culture.
The Picturesque Old Port and Coastal Fortifications
Dominating the coastline is the Ottoman Fort, a historical structure that stands as a testament to Mahdia's strategic past. Visiting the fort not only allows you to explore its ramparts but also rewards you with breathtaking panoramic vistas of the town and the Mediterranean Sea. The combination of the active port and the imposing fort creates a visually rich experience, blending local life with historical significance.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit