Although overshadowed by Hammamet 10km (6 miles) further south, Nabeul has spent the last decade trying to exploit its own tourism potential and now boasts a string of large beachfront hotels. The town's biggest claim to fame is as the center of Tunisia's pottery industry which dates back to Roman times. The distinctive and very collectable blue and white pottery can be bought all over Tunisia but Nabeul offers one of the widest selections. Tourists who dislike the idea of haggling can buy items at two official tourist shops in the town where prices are fixed.
Every Friday Nabeul plays host to a so-called Camel Market which seems to draw considerably more tourists than it does camels - but it is a good opportunity for shopping and hunting for bargains.