Staying in a resort in Monastir with a few hours to kill, we decided to visit the city itself. This coastal town, quieter than its neighbor Sousse, packs a lot into a walkable cluster of sights. It’s got vibes, views, and just enough chaos to keep it interesting. Here’s how our half-day unfolded.

Ribat of Monastir: Sorry, We’re Closed

Let’s start with the letdown: Monastir’s Ribat. This centuries-old sea fortress is supposed to be a must-see — dramatic architecture, Game of Thrones energy, panoramic sea views. From the outside it sure looks impressive, unfortunately when we arrived the entrance was already closed. Nevertheless, worth the stop to see this amazing place next to the sea.

The Medina: Old Streets and Street Smart Sellers

From the ribat, you just walk. The medina is stitched right into the city center. It’s smaller and less hectic than Sousse’s, but don’t think that means mellow. You’ll still get invited — or dragged — into shops with embroidered shirts, shiny trinkets, and enough spices to start your own souk back home.

Haggling is half the game here, and if you’re not playing, you’re overpaying. But it’s all in good fun. One guy tried to sell us a “special price just for you, my friend,” three times in the same sentence — gotta love the hustle.

Between the shops, the old streets deliver postcard-perfect scenes without trying too hard. Faded blue doors, flaking white walls, cats napping in the sun — it’s like stepping into a slightly cracked Mediterranean painting.

Habib Bourguiba’s Mausoleum: Classy, Calm, Beautiful

Whether you’re into politics or not, Habib Bourguiba’s mausoleum is worth the walk. This is Tunisia’s first president, who helped shape the modern nation — and they gave him a resting place that absolutely reflects that legacy.

Polished marble, towering gates, and golden domes catch your eye first. Inside, it’s all smooth symmetry, clean lines, and a strange serenity. The interior is prestine— no dust, no clutter, just quiet dignity. You walk through and, even if you don’t know much about Bourguiba, you feel like you’re witnessing something important.

Mosque of Bourguiba: Look, Don’t Touch

Right next to the mausoleum is the Mosque of Bourguiba — bold design, beautiful symmetry, and the kind of presence that makes you stop and stare. We tried to pop in, but it was prayer time, and non-Muslim visitors weren’t allowed inside. Still, the outside alone was worth a pause. Classic Islamic architecture, crisp against the sky.

The Green Bit: A Park That Connects It All

The public park between the ribat, medina, and mausoleum is like Monastir’s chill-out zone. Palm trees, benches, and kids kicking around soccer balls — the kind of place locals actually use, not just for show. It’s clean, open, and gives the city a bit of breathing room. It connects all the hotspots you want to see in Monastir nicely, and at the day it self it was quite occupied with a lot of activities for kids (from driving in small remote cars to trampolines). The kids loved it!

The Verdict?

Monastir isn’t flashy. But it got fewer tourists than other coastal spots and a nice park that connects all the hotspots. It’s real, walkable, and delivers way more than it promises at first glance. A nice getaway for a few hours from our resort!