The 10 Best Bars in Sfax, Tunisia

A friendly bar usually brimming with both locals and travelers, Bar Le Lido is easy to identify by how bustling it gets, especially come Friday and Saturday nights. However, it’s also open mid-week if you fancy some downtime. There’s nothing overly grand or pretentious about it – instead it’s easygoing with a relaxed vibe. As well as drinks, they also serve an array of small plates.

Opening hours – 7pm-late Best for – Chilling out with some drinks

Golden Tulip is a four-star hotel, widely considered one of the best in the area. Therefore, you’d expect its bar to set the bar high – excuse the pun – and it does. In a handy location in the heart of Sfax, it’s within a mile of must-see sites, such as the Archaeological Museum and Kasbah, while the bar itself is adjacent to a restaurant, nightclub, and lounge, so you can spend the entire night out at the Golden Tulip and not get bored. There’s even a seasonal outdoor pool to end your night on a high if you so please.

Opening hours – Noon-late Best for – A compact yet stylish evening

The hotel is described as quite standard for Tunisia, but as most Tunisian hotels are of high quality, this isn’t a bad thing. It may not stand out dramatically against others, but when you come here you’ll realize it’s a nice, well-maintained space. Staff are willing to help, and at the bar you can order alcohol, coffee, evening meals or lunch. Overall, it’s a nice experience – you won’t get the crazy bar dancing but often that makes a much-needed contrast from the rest of Sfax’s night life.

Opening hours – 12 noon – 1am Best for – Meeting people on business

Borj Dhiafa is frequented by professionals in Sfax for business, and the bar reflects its purpose. It’s minimalist but not empty looking, it serves many different drinks and has retained the same style over the years – and it’s definitely not gaudy or garish. Only a 10 minute walk to the city center, which is around $2 by taxi, it’s a standout in the area.

Opening hours – 12 noon – 12 midnight Best for – A sophisticated location all-round

This is a charming bar within an equally friendly hotel. The bar is atmospheric and in a convenient location on the airport’s path. Smoking is allowed in the bar, which some will think adds to their relaxed experience while drinking, while others find it outdated – but regardless, reviews are generally positive. A small range of food is also available, but the real emphasis is on drinks – you can get something to satisfy almost every palette.

Opening hours – 6pm-1am Best for – Working your way through the drinks menu

Lots of choice to be found in this bar! You definitely won’t come away still thirsty – or hungry, for that matter. It’s set in a beautiful, clean location, and is one of Sfax’s grander offerings. In fact, you’ll probably feel quite regal sitting at the counter sipping away here. The bar area overlooks the sea, and you know you’re in good company, as even the President of Tunisia has stayed here. Overall, it feels luxurious, is a short walk from Sfax’s center, and the facade envelopes some fascinating history.

Opening hours – 5pm-midnight Best for – Feeling richer than you actually are

One of Sfax’s more casual bars, the low-key nature doesn’t mean you should be put off going. Quite the opposite, in fact – it’s nice to fluctuate between the balance of grandeur and quaintness. In here, it’s tranquil and quieter than many other bustling areas. It’s small but overlooks the town and other attractive views. The decor has a homey feel, and you’ll definitely know you’re in Tunisia.

Opening hours – 11am-10pm Best for – A less frantic approach