Overview
Set on a narrow peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean, Mahdia was founded in the early tenth century by the caliph Ubayd Allah al-Mahdi, who made it the first capital of the Fatimid dynasty before its move to Egypt. This prestigious past has left the monumental Skifa El Kahla gate, the Great Mosque and the remains of the Punic harbour cut into the rock.
Today Mahdia is an authentic, peaceful fishing town, famous for white sandy beaches that rank among the finest in Tunisia, its turquoise water and its traditional silk weaving. Less busy than Sousse or Hammamet, it appeals to travellers seeking calm, history and light, with its white medina opening onto the sea. It is a real delight outside the peak season, too.
What to see
Skifa El Kahla
This 'dark gate' is the former fortified entrance to the Fatimid city, a long vaulted passage some forty metres deep. It now houses a small exhibition space and leads into the medina.
The Great Mosque
Built by the caliph al-Mahdi in 916, it was rebuilt in the twentieth century following its original plan. Its monumental portal, with no minaret, is a rare example of early Fatimid architecture.
Borj El Kebir
This late sixteenth-century Ottoman fortress dominates the tip of the peninsula. From its terraces the view takes in the marine cemetery, the lighthouse and the sea on every side.
Cap Afrique and the marine cemetery
At the end of the peninsula, the white tombs of the marine cemetery slope down to the sea near the lighthouse. A striking place, especially beautiful in the late afternoon.
The medina and Place du Caire
White lanes, studded doors and weavers' workshops make up a peaceful medina. The small, shady Place du Caire, lined with cafés, is its friendly heart.
The Archaeological Museum
Located near Skifa El Kahla, it displays Roman mosaics, Punic artefacts and Fatimid pieces, as well as traditional costumes and jewellery from the region.
Things to do
- Discover silk weavingStep into a workshop in the medina to watch weavers working silk on traditional looms, an emblematic craft of Mahdia.
- Swim on the white beachesEnjoy the long white sandy beaches of the tourist zone, with clear, shallow water that is perfect for families.
- Watch the fishermen returnThe fishing port, one of the most important in the country, comes alive when trawlers and small boats return, notably from lamparo night fishing.
- Scuba divingThe rocky sea bed off Mahdia, where a famous ancient shipwreck was discovered, offers fine dives in crystal-clear water.
- Sunset at Cap AfriqueWalk to the tip of the peninsula to watch the sun set over the sea, between the lighthouse and Borj El Kebir.
Beaches & nature
Mahdia is renowned for its fine white sandy beaches, which stretch north of the town towards Hiboun and the tourist zone. The turquoise water stays shallow for a long way out. Around the peninsula, the rocky coast offers coves and wild scenery, while the hinterland is covered with olive groves.
Food & local specialities
A fishing town through and through, Mahdia offers cuisine dominated by fresh fish and olive oil, with a few specialities all its own.
Where to stay
Medina and peninsula
For travellers seeking authenticity, in guesthouses with traditional charm, close to the monuments and the sea.
Tourist zone (Hiboun)
North of the town, ideal for families and beach holidaymakers, with hotels right on the white sandy beaches.
Town centre and port
Practical and lively, for those who want to live at the local pace, near the market, the fishing port and the metro station.
Shopping & markets
Mahdia is Tunisia's capital of silk weaving: scarves, fabrics and bridal costumes embroidered with gold and silver thread can be found in the workshops of the medina. You can also pick up traditional jewellery, embroidery and local olive oil. The very lively weekly market offers a glimpse of the town's everyday life.
Getting there
By plane
Monastir airport is about 45 minutes away by road, Enfidha-Hammamet airport about 1 hour 15 minutes.
By car
From Tunis, allow about 2 hours 30 minutes for some 205 km, via the A1 motorway and then the coastal road through Monastir.
By train
Mahdia is the terminus of the Sahel Metro, which links it to Monastir and Sousse, where you can join main-line trains.
By louage (shared taxi)
Louages run regularly to Sousse, Monastir, Sfax, El Jem and Tunis.
Getting around
The medina, the peninsula and the port are pleasant to explore on foot. Taxis make it easy to reach the tourist zone to the north. The Sahel Metro is handy for trips to Monastir and Sousse, but a rental car is recommended for visiting El Jem and the surrounding villages.
Day trips nearby
El Jem
About 45 km to the south-west, its Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in the world, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Monastir
About 45 km to the north and reachable by metro, with the Ribat of Harthema and the Bourguiba Mausoleum.
Salakta
About 15 km to the south, this fishing village occupies the site of ancient Sullecthum, with Roman remains and a small museum.
Our tips
- Visit Skifa El Kahla and the medina in the morning, then save the late afternoon for Cap Afrique.
- Buy silk items directly from the workshops to see how they are made.
- Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees for the Great Mosque.
- The Sahel Metro makes an easy car-free day trip to Monastir.
FAQ
Are Mahdia's beaches suitable for children?
Yes, the white sandy beaches slope gently and the water stays shallow for a long way, making them ideal for families.
How long does it take to visit Mahdia?
One day is enough for the medina and the peninsula. To enjoy the beaches and take a trip to El Jem, plan several days.
Can you get to Mahdia without a car?
Yes, the Sahel Metro links Mahdia with Monastir and Sousse, and louages serve the country's main towns.
What is Skifa El Kahla?
It is the former fortified gate of the Fatimid city, a long vaulted passage that today marks the main entrance to the medina.
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