Discover Gabes

Gabes offers several ways to enjoy a stay: the old town has an authentic atmosphere, pomegranate trees give the oasis a clear seasonal rhythm, and herons and flamingos can be found on the beaches. The area also features 17th-century buildings and weaving crafts in nearby villages. This makes it possible to discover Gabes through its nature, history and craftsmanship.

Oasis and coast throughout the year

In the oasis of Gabes, pomegranate trees blossom at the beginning of summer and bear sweet, juicy fruit in autumn. The beginning of summer and autumn therefore bring different highlights: first the blossoms, then the fruit. For travellers who enjoy experiencing nature in step with the seasons, this sequence is a distinctive feature of a stay. Numerous herons and flamingos can be found on the beaches of Gabes. The natural attractions are clearly different: in the oasis, the impression is shaped by the seasonal plant cycle; on the beaches, by the birdlife.

Historic buildings and weaving crafts

The city’s history is also reflected in specific buildings. Gabes has several historic buildings dating from the 17th century, including mosques, the mausoleum of the holy Sidi Boulbaba and a medersa. The medersa has since been converted into a museum of folk art and traditions. The cultural range therefore includes both historic buildings and a museum dedicated to folk art and traditions.

In villages near Gabes, women make wall hangings on simple looms. This adds a craft element to the travel experience: unlike the city’s historic buildings, the focus here is on textile work in the surrounding villages. Those interested in crafts will find another aspect of the region alongside the history of Gabes.

Matmata: film history and distinctive residential architecture

Matmata also has its own points of interest. Some scenes from the Star Wars saga were filmed there. The houses have a central courtyard surrounded by entirely underground rooms. This layout gives the architecture a distinctive character; Matmata also brings together a look at residential architecture and film history. The town thus complements Gabes’ nature and culture with its own architectural perspective.

Which themes suit your trip?

Before looking for a holiday rental in Gabes, it is worth considering your interests: the oasis and coast offer different natural attractions, while historic buildings and weaving crafts provide a range of cultural themes. The oasis has a seasonal aspect, with blossoms at the beginning of summer followed by fruit in autumn; the herons and flamingos on the beaches offer a different nature experience. You can consider whether your trip will focus more on observing nature, history or crafts, and view Gabes through that personal lens.

Tunisia in a wider context

Other places in Tunisia also offer distinctive cultural and natural attractions. In Sousse, the Ribat is considered the oldest and best-preserved example of its type. The medina of Tunis contains around 700 historic monuments spread across seven areas. El Jem Amphitheatre is estimated to have a capacity of 35,000 spectators. Lake Ichkeul and the marshes around it offer a different perspective: they are a wintering ground for hundreds of thousands of migratory birds. These examples broaden the view of Tunisia to include historic architecture, monuments and seasonal nature.

Discover more destinations: Hammamet, Manouba, Kairouan, Mahdia, Bizerte, Madaniyin, Sousse.

Back to the main travel overview: Tunisia.