Tunisia’s “Mini Greece”: Exploring Sidi Bou Said & Beyond

Perched atop a cliff overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean, Sidi Bou Said Tunisia is a living canvas—a village where whitewashed walls and cobalt-blue doors evoke the spirit of the Greek isles, yet pulse with uniquely Tunisian artistry. Renowned as Tunisia’s “Mini Greece,” this enchanting enclave has long been a haven for artists, designers, and cultural visionaries.

For travelers seeking a blend of Mediterranean elegance, artistic heritage, and sophisticated leisure, Sidi Bou Said is a destination where inspiration finds its muse.

At Be Part of the Journey, we invite you to uncover the layers of history, creativity, and style that define Sidi Bou Said & Beyond, through curated experiences that celebrate the very essence of art, interior design, and culture.

Why Sidi Bou Said is Called Tunisia’s Mini Greece

Sidi Bou Said’s iconic blue-and-white palette is its most striking feature, earning the village its affectionate nickname as Tunisia’s “Mini Greece”. This color scheme, introduced by French artist Rodolphe d’Erlanger in the early 20th century, was inspired by the luminous clarity of the Mediterranean and the architecture of the Greek islands.

Strolling through the labyrinthine streets, you’ll encounter domed rooftops, intricate ironwork, and elegant wooden doors—each detail reflecting a dialogue between Greek, Moorish, and North African influences.

Beyond aesthetics, Sidi Bou Said Tunisia has cultivated a reputation as a crossroads for creatives: from Paul Klee and Gustave-Henri Jossot to contemporary Tunisian designers, artists have found in these azure corridors an endless source of inspiration.

Must-See Spots for Art & Culture Lovers

1. The Village Streets: Living Galleries

The very streets of Sidi Bou Said are an open-air gallery, where each home is a masterpiece. Wander among cascading bougainvillea, sunlit courtyards, and hidden stairways painted Mediterranean blue.

The interplay of light, shadow, and color provides an unrivaled backdrop for photographers, architects, and design enthusiasts.

2. Ennejma Ezzahra Palace

A masterpiece of Tunisian artistry, this palace was built by Baron Rodolphe d’Erlanger in the early 20th century and today houses the Center for Arabic and Mediterranean Music. Its interiors fuse European and North African styles, with carved stuccos, zellige tiles, and antique furnishings. A true sensory journey through art and architecture.

3. Cafe des Delices

This iconic café, immortalized in music, offers panoramic views over the Gulf of Tunis. Its bohemian atmosphere and traditional Tunisian details make it a gathering place for artists and travelers seeking inspiration and authenticity.

4. Local Galleries & Artisan Boutiques

Sidi Bou Said is a haven for creators. Explore contemporary galleries showcasing the work of North African painters, ceramicists, and sculptors. Boutiques brim with hand-painted tiles, woven textiles, and fine metalwork—perfect for collectors or anyone passionate about interior design.

5. Dar El Annabi

This 18th-century mansion-museum is a testament to Tunisian art de vivre. Its themed rooms, adorned with traditional garments, ceramics, and handicrafts, allow visitors to discover the richness of daily life and the aesthetics of a noble family.

6. Acropolium of Carthage (Cathedral of St. Louis)

Just a short distance from Sidi Bou Said, this neo-Byzantine monument offers not only impressive architecture but also art exhibitions and a unique atmosphere for concerts and cultural events.

7. La Marsa and Its Art Galleries

This coastal neighborhood is a hub of contemporary Tunisian art, featuring galleries, creative studios, and artistic cafés overlooking the sea. It’s the perfect spot to discover new trends and connect with local artists.

8. Carthage Museum

Set among ancient ruins, this museum offers a privileged window into the past, with mosaics, sculptures, and archaeological pieces reflecting the blend of cultures that have shaped Tunisia.

Exclusive BPJourney Experiences: Art, Design & Culture

At BPJourney, we craft immersive experiences that place you at the heart of Sidi Bou Said’s creative pulse:

• Private Art Walks: Explore the studios of resident artists and meet local visionaries shaping the contemporary scene.

• Interior Design Tours: Go beyond the surface with expert-led visits to historic mansions, palaces, and private homes rarely open to the public—each one a testament to Tunisia’s layered aesthetic heritage.

• Hands-on Workshops: Join intimate sessions with ceramicists or calligraphers, where you can create your own art piece or decorative object.

• Curated Culinary Tastings: Savor the intersection of gastronomy and design in unique settings—private courtyards, historic cafes, or modern art spaces.

Beyond Sidi Bou Said: A Journey Through Tunisia’s Creative Heritage

While Sidi Bou Said is a jewel in Tunisia’s cultural crown, the country offers endless opportunities for lovers of art and design:

• Stroll through the Medina of Tunis
  A UNESCO World Heritage site where every winding alley reveals centuries-old palaces, vibrant souks bursting with color, and hidden gardens that whisper of the country’s artistic legacy.

• Immerse yourself in the ancient world of Carthage
  Explore Roman villas adorned with intricate mosaics that tell the story of a region shaped by multiple cultural layers—each site a testament to creativity enduring through the ages.

• Experience the energy of Tunisia’s contemporary art scene
  From avant-garde galleries in the capital to bold seaside installations in La Marsa. Here, innovation meets tradition as new artistic voices renew the cultural dialogue.

• Indulge in exclusive Mediterranean retreats
  Artfully designed spaces and breathtaking seascapes provide a sanctuary for both relaxation and inspiration.

• Enjoy the guidance of BPJourney
  Access exceptional experiences where every moment resonates with art, heritage, and wonder—whether wandering ancient corridors or savoring modern luxury by the sea.

When to Visit & How to Arrive

The allure of Sidi Bou Said Tunisia is perennial, though spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable climate for exploring art, architecture, and culture. Access is effortless, with private transfers from Tunis-Carthage International Airport ensuring a seamless journey from arrival to your luxurious accommodation.

Ready to immerse yourself in a world where art, design, and culture converge? Let Be Part of the Journey curate your bespoke escape to Sidi Bou Said and beyond. Discover the Mediterranean through an artist’s eyes—and let every moment inspire you.