Sun, Sea and a Taste of the Real Tunisia
There’s something special about travelling somewhere new and simply taking the time to explore, take photographs, and soak up the atmosphere. My recent holiday to Hammamet, Tunisia, was exactly that kind of trip. Sunshine, beautiful beaches, colourful streets, delicious food and plenty of opportunities to get the camera out.
Hammamet is one of Tunisia’s best-known holiday destinations, but beyond the hotels and swimming pools, there’s much more to discover.
First Impressions of Hammamet
Hammamet has that classic Mediterranean holiday feeling as soon as you arrive. The sunshine, palm trees, warm temperatures and blue sea immediately put you into holiday mode.
The town is a mixture of traditional Tunisian character and modern tourism. You’ll find large resorts and restaurants alongside small local shops, cafés and traditional buildings.
For me, one of the best things about visiting somewhere like Hammamet is simply walking around without a strict plan. You never quite know what you’ll find around the next corner and from a photographer’s point of view, that’s when some of the best opportunities appear.
Exploring the Medina
One of the highlights of Hammamet is the Medina, the old town surrounded by historic walls.
Walking through the narrow streets feels completely different from the modern resort areas. Whitewashed buildings, colourful doors, traditional shops and small cafés create plenty of character.
The Medina is also a fantastic place for photography. The combination of bright white walls, blue doors, colourful decorations and strong Mediterranean sunlight creates some fantastic contrasts.
Yasmine Hammamet
Another area worth exploring is Yasmine Hammamet, a purpose-built tourist resort area located south of the old town.
Yasmine Hammamet has a more modern and polished feel compared with the old Medina. There are hotels, restaurants, shops, entertainment and a marina, making it a popular area for visitors.
The marina is particularly nice for an evening stroll. Boats, restaurants and the changing colours of the sky make it a great place to slow down and enjoy the evening.
A Visit to Nabeul Market
One of the highlights of my trip was a visit to Nabeul Market, a lively and colourful market just a short distance from Hammamet.
If you enjoy colourful places, local culture and photography, this is definitely somewhere worth visiting.
Nabeul is famous for its pottery and ceramics, and you’ll see plenty of beautifully decorated plates, bowls, jugs and traditional pieces throughout the market. The bright colours and intricate patterns make it almost impossible not to stop and take a photograph.
But pottery isn’t the only thing you’ll find here. The market is full of spices, textiles, leather goods, souvenirs, fresh produce and handmade items. There is something happening in almost every direction, which gives the market a wonderfully lively atmosphere.
Would I Visit Hammamet Again?
Absolutely.
Hammamet is a great destination if you’re looking for a combination of sun, beaches, culture, food and photography.
It has the relaxing atmosphere you’d expect from a Mediterranean holiday destination, but there is also enough history and local character to make you want to get out of the resort and explore.
For me, the biggest takeaway from the trip was that Hammamet is more than just a place to lie by a swimming pool.
Get out, explore the Medina, walk along the coast, try some local food, talk to people, take your camera — and give yourself the chance to experience a little bit of Tunisia beyond the hotel.
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