Sousse weather by month

When to go to Sousse

For beach weather, look at months where the daytime average clears 25°C and rainy days stay low: May, June, July, August, September, October. October is the wettest month (50 mm, about 7 rainy days) and July the driest (1 mm). The sea is warmest in August at 26.9°C and coolest in February at 14.6°C.

Getting there

A direct flight from London Gatwick to Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport (MIR, 13 km from Sousse) takes roughly 3 h 6 min - short-haul (up to 4.5 h) by UK standards. Time-zone: Africa/Tunis.

Records and extremes, 1991-2020

The hottest day recorded in Sousse between 1991 and 2020 reached 47.4°C on 8 August 1999; the coldest fell to 0.4°C on 15 February 2012. In August one day in ten tops 39.4°C and about 96% of days pass 30°C; in January one night in ten drops to 4.3°C or below. The wettest single month of the period was September 1997 with 168 mm, against a September average of 48 mm.

Spring: warmer days, but the sea takes longer

March brings daytime averages of 20°C, making it comfortable for walking, though nights at 10°C call for a jacket. April warms to 23°C, with 8 hours of sunshine giving you more scope for time outside. Neither month is especially inviting for leisurely swimming: the sea averages 15°C in March and 16°C in April. May is the stronger all-round choice, with warm days, just 3 rain days on average and evenings that still benefit from a light layer. Its 19°C sea remains a catch for travellers who want warm water rather than a refreshing dip. Pack layers rather than relying entirely on summer clothes.

Summer: reliable sunshine with demanding midday heat

June offers a useful balance for a summer trip: the sea reaches 22°C, rain averages just 2 days and there are 11 hours of sunshine. The catch is the 32°C daytime average, so plan active outings early or late and leave room for shade around midday. July and August both average 35°C by day and 22°C at night, with little relief after sunset compared with spring. July is the driest month, while August has the warmest sea at 27°C. These months suit travellers who prioritise swimming and sunshine over long daytime walks. Lightweight clothes, sun protection and accommodation where you can cool down matter more than extra layers.

Autumn and winter: warm water gives way to cooler evenings

September keeps a summer feel, with 31°C days and a 26°C sea, although rain becomes more likely than in high summer. October is a useful compromise if you prefer less heat: days average 26°C and the sea stays at 24°C, but its 7 rain days mean flexible plans help. November drops to 22°C by day, with a 21°C sea that may still suit keen swimmers. December is cooler at 18°C, while January and February average 17°C. Winter suits travellers content with mild afternoons rather than dependable beach weather. Nights fall to 9°C in December and 8°C in January and February, so bring a proper evening layer and something for showers. The sea cools from 18°C in December to 16°C in January and 15°C in February, making swimming a less comfortable prospect.