Built in the 17th century, Sidi Youssef Dey Mosque was the first Ottoman-style mosque in Tunis, designed by Andalusian architect Ibn Ghalib. Its eclectic mix of influences reflects the era’s cultural exchanges. Flanked by Turkish souqs — El Trouk (once tailors, now clothing and embroidery), El Berka (formerly a slave market, later jewellery traders), and El Bechamkia (slippers and shoes) — the mosque served the city’s Ottoman-era merchants. The minaret, topped with a distinctive green-tiled pyramidal crown, became a model for later Ottoman designs in Tunis. Its octagonal shape, novel at the time, subtly asserted Ottoman authority. Inside, the mosque houses the tombs of Youssef Dey, commander of the janissaries, and his family. Sidi Youssef remains an active mosque, so plan visits outside prayer times, when non-Muslim visitors may enter. Its striking architecture, both inside and out, anchors a neighbourhood rich with history.

Dar Lasram, a grand 19th-century mansion that once belonged to the important Lasram family, now houses the offices of the Association for the Protection of the Medina of Tunis. It was among the first historic buildings restored by the association. Inside, you’ll find stately courtyards and rooms adorned with intricate tilework, alongside a small exhibition on the association’s efforts to preserve the Medina’s heritage.

An important landmark as well as a gathering point for the East Africa Swaminarayan Satsang (EASS) community, this temple is also renowned for being the first such mandir outside the Indian subcontinent, built of stones transported straight from the country of Hinduism's origins.

The so-called 'Staircase of the King of Aragon' is not for the faint-hearted! Legend has it these stairs on the cliff were created in just one night to allow the king of Aragon to escape from the siege of the city. The vertiginous view over the sea and the city is breathtaking but be careful, you will need the courage of a knight to climb them.