Concorde Hotel Marco Polo

For travelers seeking an all-inclusive resort with lots of on-site activities, a sandy beach, and several bars, the Concorde Hotel Marco Polo fits the bill. Formerly a Riu resort, the hotel was built in a traditional Moorish style, with columns, mosaics, and domes. The resort is not grand or luxurious -- and the building itself is rather plain -- but interiors are outfitted with arabesque patterns that add local charm. Arches, green-tiled roofs, and palm trees make the outdoors attractive. Grounds feature a mix of tiled areas and manicured gardens dotted with flowers, trees, and shrubs, while the beach is peppered with straw umbrellas and loungers. The vibe is lively during the day, especially around the main pool, where most of the entertainment takes place. Nights, however, are quieter, as shows are generally short and all bars close around midnight. The resort is particularly popular with families due to its wide array of kid-friendly amenities, but it is also suitable for couples wanting to relax, complete with a spa, a pleasant beach, and indoor and outdoor bars. Travelers seeking something even quieter may prefer the adult-only (and cheaper) Sentido Aziza Beach Golf & Spa, or the luxe La Badira. Another good alternative for families with a little extra cash is the Orangers Beach Resort & Bungalows, which has better food, beautiful grounds, and drink service around the pool. 

The Marco Polo is located along a fine-sand beach in Yasmine Hammamet, a touristy area south of Hammamet filled with resorts, small shops selling beach gear, and bars. Right next door to the resort is the city’s quaint marina, home to a few cafes and restaurants, and there are a couple of nightclubs within a five-minute walk of the hotel. The Hammamet medina (or old city) is about a 25-minute drive away, while the Carthage archaeological site can be reached in about 75 minutes. The hotel provides free transfers to the nearby Citrus and Yasmine golf courses. The nearest airport is Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport, located about a 40-minute drive from the resort, but it is mostly served by charter flights from Europe; major airlines fly into Tunis International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive away. 

The hotel has 464 rooms ranging between standard double units and four-person Senior Suites. Rooms were not fully renovated after the hotel rebranded in late 2015, and the decor style is dated and lackluster. Classic wooden furniture feels old, as do the blue bedspreads with leaf prints and the blue-and-white striped curtains. Everything, however, is kept clean and tidy, and sliding glass doors let in lots of light. All rooms have balconies furnished with plastic chairs and tables, and most have at least side sea views. Each room is outfitted with a flat-screen TV, an empty mini-fridge, central air-conditioning, and a safe. Electric kettles are not provided, and Wi-Fi is only available in the lobby. Bathrooms are clean and straightforward, with beige tiles throughout, granite-like or stone counters with sunken basins, and shower/tub combos with plastic curtains. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided in all rooms.

The most outstanding feature at the Concorde Hotel Marco Polo is the massive outdoor pool, complete with two whirlpools, a swim-up bar, and underwater loungers. The deck around it is spacious, with paved and grass areas and lots of umbrellas, but some guests have complained that there aren’t enough loungers for everyone during the busiest months. The entertainment team keeps things lively around the pool with games and fitness classes, plus some of the activities take place in other parts of the grounds, so it is not always loud. The beach is a good alternative for those seeking some peace and quiet -- though there is no bar nearby. Motorized and non-motorized water sports are available seasonally for a fee. The buffet restaurant (which is the only one open during the off-peak season) offers local and international dishes, but many guests have complained that quality and variety are just average. The two a la carte options serve up Asian and Italian cuisines for dinner, and reservations are required. The kids’ club has indoor and outdoor areas and features a wading pool, a playground, and a full activities program for children 4 to 12 years old. Body treatments and salon services are available at the spa, while the fitness center has a few cardio and strength-training machines. There are also tennis and volleyball courts, an indoor pool, and meeting space for up to 500 guests.