Planning a trip to Sousse means you’ll need to juggle that classic Mediterranean sunshine with weather that won’t knock you out while exploring. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer the best mix of mild temperatures and low rainfall for a visit. These seasons serve up sunny beach days and easy sightseeing, minus the harsh summer heat.
Summers in Sousse often shoot past 30°C (86°F) with plenty of humidity, so walking around for hours can get a bit rough. Winters feel cooler, and the wind picks up, but honestly, it’s still warmer than what most of Europe gets at the same time.
If you time your trip right, you can stroll the city’s historic medina, soak up those coastal views, and check out nearby attractions in comfort.
Looking at how the weather changes through the year helps you figure out not just when to go, but what kind of vibe you’ll get once you’re there.
With good timing, Sousse shows its best side—calm beach days, lively cultural happenings, or relaxed evenings by the water.
Overview of Sousse Weather Patterns
Sousse has a classic Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot, winters are mild, and the sun sticks around for most of the year.
You’ll spot clear differences in temperature and rainfall from season to season, and that really shapes how it feels to be outside.
Mediterranean Climate Characteristics
Sousse sits right on Tunisia’s eastern coast, so you get strong Mediterranean vibes in the weather. Summers are hot, dry, and bright, while winters cool down with more rain and chilly nights.
The sea does its job and takes the edge off the worst heat. Even in the height of summer, breezes off the water make the coast more pleasant than inland spots.
Sunshine is a given. Most months bring 9 to 11 hours of daylight, so you can stay outside for ages. Of course, summer afternoons can get pretty toasty.
Annual Temperature Trends
In Sousse, average temperatures run from about 10°C (50°F) in winter up to 28–32°C (82–90°F) in summer. You won’t see wild extremes—rarely below 5°C (41°F) or above 38°C (100°F).
January and February are the coldest, with daytime highs around 15–16°C (59–61°F). Nights can drop near 7°C (45°F).
By April, things warm up fast, and you’ll see 20–23°C (68–73°F). July and August are the real scorchers, with highs at 30–32°C (86–90°F) and warm nights at about 24°C (75°F).
Autumn cools off slowly. October averages 22–25°C (72–77°F), then temperatures head back toward winter by December.
Rainfall and Humidity Overview
Rainfall in Sousse comes in waves. Most of it falls between October and February, and December usually takes the crown as the wettest month. You might see 50–70 mm in a single month during this stretch.
Summer barely gets any rain, with June through August often recording less than 5–10 mm. That’s great for beachgoers, though the landscape can look a bit dry.
Humidity stays pretty reasonable. Coastal winds keep things from getting that heavy, sticky feeling you find in some hot places. In summer, humidity averages about 60%, and it ticks up a little in winter when it rains more.
Best Time to Visit Sousse for Ideal Weather
When you’re planning your Sousse trip, the big things to think about are temperature, rain, and whether it actually feels good to be outside. The Mediterranean climate means mild winters, hot summers, and two shoulder seasons that really nail the sweet spot.
Recommended Months for Pleasant Temperatures
You’ll find the nicest temperatures in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Daytime highs hover between 20°C and 25°C (68°F–77°F), which makes wandering the Medina or sightseeing way more enjoyable than sweating it out in midsummer.
July and August can push the mercury over 30°C (86°F), so you might not want to spend too long outdoors in the afternoon. Winters are mild if you’re used to cold European weather, but highs around 15°C (59°F) in January can still feel a bit brisk.
If you’re after warmth without the extremes, shoot for April, May, October, or early November. You’ll get beaches and history without the heatwaves or chilly winds.
Periods with Minimal Rainfall
Rain isn’t a huge issue in Sousse, but it’s definitely not spread evenly through the year. June through September are the driest months, with barely a drop and lots of clear skies. Perfect if you want dry days for exploring or sunbathing.
December stands out as the wettest month, and a shower or two might cut into your beach time or a day trip. January and February get more rain too, but it usually comes in quick bursts, not long storms.
For a blend of mild weather and low rain, late spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) are your best bet. You’ll dodge most of the wet days and still have comfortable weather for getting around.
Optimal Seasons for Outdoor Activities
If you’re into walking tours, exploring ruins, or hitting the beach, plan for the shoulder seasons. Spring and autumn give you long daylight, moderate temperatures, and lower humidity, so you can stay active all day.
If swimming and sunbathing are your thing, summer is the time. The Mediterranean is warmest from June to September, but you’ll want to plan your outings for the morning or evening to skip the midday heat.
Winter cools things down, but it’s still good for wandering the Medina, museums, or markets. The crowds thin out, so you can take your time at cultural sites, though the beach won’t be as inviting. October through early November and April through May are probably the most flexible for outdoor fun in Sousse.
Seasonal Breakdown: What to Expect Throughout the Year
Sousse’s Mediterranean climate means mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Spring and autumn usually have the best weather for sightseeing, while summer is all about the beach. Winter cools things down and brings more rain, but crowds disappear.
Spring in Sousse
Spring is hard to beat for comfort. From March to May, average temperatures sit between 18°C and 25°C (64°F–77°F). Rain drops off compared to winter, and the days get sunnier.
You can wander the Medina of Sousse, check out the Ribat, and visit other landmarks without sweating buckets. Outdoor dining and walking tours are a breeze, and the coast feels lively but not packed.
By May, the sea starts warming up for swimming, though it might still feel a little chilly. Spring also brings wildflowers to the countryside, so day trips have a splash of color.
Summer in Sousse
Summer, from June through August, brings the heat. Daytime highs reach 30°C to 32°C (86°F–90°F), with July usually topping the charts. Nights stay warm, around 22°C to 24°C (72°F–75°F). Rain is basically a no-show.
The city center can feel sweltering, but that coastal breeze makes beach days a lot more tolerable. If you’re into swimming or water sports, this is your window. The Mediterranean gets toasty, often above 25°C (77°F).
Tourists flood in, and hotel prices climb. Festivals, like the International Festival of Sousse, bring extra buzz. Sightseeing at midday can be a slog, so it’s smarter to get out early or wait until evening.
Fall in Sousse
Fall, from September to November, is another sweet spot. September still feels summery, with highs around 28°C (82°F). By November, things cool to about 20°C (68°F), and nights get a bit crisper. Rain starts to make a comeback.
The sea stays warm enough for a swim through October, and you’ll avoid the summer crowds at the beaches. Exploring markets and historical sites is easier when the heat drops.
Events like the Harvest Festival let you sample local traditions and food. Fall balances good weather, moderate prices, and fewer tourists, so it’s a practical choice.
Winter in Sousse
Winter runs from December to February. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 18°C (59°F–64°F), and nights can dip to 7°C to 10°C (45°F–50°F). Rain is more common, especially in December, but big storms aren’t the norm.
You’ll notice fewer tourists, so attractions are quieter and places to stay are cheaper. The Medina and museums stay open year-round, so you’ve got indoor options if it rains.
Beach activities slow down because the water’s too chilly, but walking along the coast still feels nice. Winter works well if you want a slower pace, more culture, and fewer crowds.
Monthly Weather Details in Sousse
Sousse’s warm Mediterranean climate brings mild winters, hot summers, and moderate rain. Temperatures, rainfall, and daylight hours shift month by month, and that really shapes your trip.
Monthly Temperature Averages
Average temperatures in Sousse swing pretty wide over the year. January and February stay cool, with daytime highs at 15–16°C (59–61°F) and lows around 7–8°C (44–46°F).
Spring warms up quickly. In April, highs hit about 20°C (68°F), and by May, you’re looking at 23–24°C (73–75°F). Nights still feel cool but not cold.
Summer is for the heat lovers. June through August brings highs of 27–31°C (81–88°F), with nights staying mild at 18–21°C (64–70°F).
Autumn cools off bit by bit. September feels hot with highs near 30°C (86°F), but by November, you’re back to 20–21°C (68–70°F) during the day and 11–12°C (52–54°F) at night.
Monthly Rainfall Patterns
Rain in Sousse has its rhythm. The wettest months hit in late autumn and winter. December averages about 53 mm (2.1 in), and January and February bring about 40–48 mm (1.6–1.9 in).
Spring dries out a bit. April and May get 15–28 mm (0.6–1.1 in), which is much less than winter.
Summer barely registers on the rain scale. July sees just 2 mm (0.08 in), and August is just as dry. You might only see a rainy day or two.
Rain starts picking up again in autumn. September averages 35 mm (1.4 in), and October bumps up to 44 mm (1.7 in), so you know winter’s coming.
Monthly Sunshine Hours
Sousse gets loads of sun, but daylight hours do shift. December has the shortest days, with about 9.8 hours of daylight. January and February offer 10–11 hours, which is still pretty decent for getting out.
Spring stretches the days longer. By May, you get over 14 hours of daylight—plenty of time to wander.
Summer maxes out the sun. June averages 14.6 hours, and July is close behind at 14 hours. The UV index is high, so don’t forget sunscreen.
Daylight drops off in autumn. September still gives you 12.4 hours, but by November, it’s down to 10.3 hours as winter creeps in.
Special Weather Considerations for Travelers
When you’re planning, it’s smart to think about how humidity, rain, and sea temperatures might affect your plans. These details can shape your experience just as much as the average temperature in Sousse.
Humidity and Heat Waves
Summer in Sousse feels hotter than the thermometer suggests, mostly because of the humidity. July and August usually hit highs near 33°C (91°F), while nights stay warm around 24°C (75°F).
Humidity often sits between 52% and 60%, making afternoons feel heavy and sticky. You might find June or September a bit more comfortable, with highs closer to 29–30°C (84–86°F) and slightly less humidity.
If you’re sensitive to heat, try to do your sightseeing in the morning or later in the evening. Hotels usually have air conditioning, but smaller guesthouses sometimes don’t, so keep that in mind.
Carry water, wear light clothing, and expect slower, lazier afternoons during peak summer. While Sousse doesn’t get the brutal heat waves seen inland, you’ll still want to plan for them if you’re not used to this kind of weather.
Rainy Periods and Storms
Rain in Sousse doesn’t get too dramatic, but you’ll notice a pattern. From June through August, rainfall almost disappears.
October and November bring the most showers, with about 2–3 rainy days per month. Storms don’t usually last long or get too intense, but they can dump a lot of water fast.
Older parts of town sometimes flood, so pack shoes that can handle puddles if you’re coming in autumn. March and April have a few rainy days as well, but totals stay low.
You probably won’t need an umbrella every day, but tossing a light rain jacket in your bag is smart. If you want dry sightseeing, late spring or midsummer is your best bet.
Sea Temperature for Swimming
The Mediterranean near Sousse stays inviting for much of the year. Sea temperatures rise from about 18°C (64°F) in April up to 26°C (79°F) in August.
July through September feels perfect for swimming. In May and October, the water cools off a bit to 20–23°C (68–73°F), though plenty of people still swim.
Winter drops the sea below 16°C (61°F), which feels chilly if you want to stay in for long. For beach time, aim for late June through early October.
That’s when the water’s warmest, and you’ll get those calm, safe swimming days most travelers hope for.
Travel Planning Tips Based on Sousse Weather
When you plan a trip to Sousse, the weather really shapes what you pack and when you go. Temperatures and rainfall jump around as the months change, so tweaking your plans for the season just makes sense.
Packing Advice for Each Season
In spring (March–May), you’ll see daytime highs between 20°C and 25°C. Pack light layers, a comfy jacket for cooler evenings, and shoes that work for wandering the Medina.
Spring sometimes brings showers, so a small umbrella isn’t a bad idea. During summer (June–August), highs often hit 30°C or more.
Go for lightweight, breathable clothes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A hat helps with the sun, and sandals work well for the beach. Most hotels have air conditioning, but you’ll want a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
In autumn (September–November), the weather turns mild and pleasant. Light clothes are fine, but you’ll want a sweater for the evenings.
Rain picks up in late autumn, so waterproof shoes or a rain jacket can help. For winter (December–February), bring warmer layers like sweaters, long pants, and a light coat.
Daytime highs average 15°C to 18°C, but nights can dip near 7°C. Rain is more common, so sturdy shoes are a good call.
Event and Festival Timing
Sousse hosts a handful of cultural events that fit with the seasons. In July, the International Festival of Sousse brings music, dance, and theater all over town.
The hot, dry nights are great for outdoor performances, though you’ll notice the crowds. The Medina Festival also shows up in summer, focusing on traditional crafts and food.
If you’re visiting then, expect hot days and pack light. In autumn, harvest festivals pop up, celebrating local produce and food.
Cooler weather makes it easier to enjoy outdoor events. Winter has smaller gatherings, like the Carpet Festival in December.
That one highlights Tunisia’s textile traditions and suits travelers who prefer quieter events and cool air.
Travel to Sousse During Shoulder Seasons
So, the best time to visit Sousse usually falls in the shoulder seasons—think spring or autumn. Those months bring comfortable weather and, honestly, way fewer crowds than the packed summer months.
Temperatures hover somewhere between 18°C and 25°C. That range makes walking around and sightseeing actually pleasant, not sweaty or exhausting.
You’ll probably notice that accommodation and flight prices drop a bit during these times. Exploring spots like the Ribat or the Great Mosque feels a lot more relaxed when you’re not elbow-to-elbow with other tourists.
You might get some rain, especially if you’re there in late autumn. But it’s usually pretty light, and a small umbrella or rain jacket will do the trick.
Spring and autumn in Sousse really let you enjoy cultural events and the beach without dealing with brutal heat or overwhelming tourist crowds.