After the energy of Marrakech, Essaouira feels like a breath of fresh Atlantic air. This whitewashed port town with blue shutters has a relaxed rhythm, a UNESCO-listed medina, a lively fishing harbour and long sandy beaches. Here is our local guide to Essaouira.
A little history
Known as Mogador for centuries, the town was redesigned in the 18th century by Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah with the help of a French engineer, which explains its straight streets and European-style ramparts. It became Morocco’s main port for trade with Europe and Timbuktu, home to Muslim, Jewish and European merchants. The medina has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001.
Top things to do
Walk the Skala de la Ville
The sea ramparts, lined with old bronze cannons, offer dramatic views of the waves crashing on the rocks. They were used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Visit the fishing port
Hundreds of blue wooden boats, fishermen repairing nets and seagulls everywhere: the port is Essaouira’s beating heart. Choose your fish and have it grilled on the spot at the stalls near the harbour.
Explore the medina
Calmer than Marrakech, the medina is ideal for shopping: thuya wood crafts, silver jewellery, argan products, paintings by local artists and gnawa music instruments.
The Mellah
The old Jewish quarter tells the story of Essaouira’s multicultural past. Visit Bayt Dakira, a restored house and synagogue dedicated to Judeo-Moroccan heritage.
The beach
The wide beach south of the medina is perfect for long walks, camel and horse rides. The constant trade winds make Essaouira one of the best places in Morocco for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Gnaoua World Music Festival
Each summer (usually June), Essaouira hosts a famous festival mixing Gnawa music with jazz, blues and world music.
On the road from Marrakech
The 190 km drive (about 2.5–3 hours) crosses the argan forest. Stop at a women’s argan cooperative to see how the oil is made, and look out for the famous goats climbing argan trees.
Weather
Essaouira is mild all year round (18–25°C) thanks to the ocean – a perfect escape in summer when Marrakech is hot. Bring a windbreaker: the wind is almost constant.
Day trip or overnight?
A private day trip from Marrakech gives you about 5–6 hours in town. If you can, stay one night in a riad to enjoy the sunset from the ramparts and the quiet morning at the port.
Tips
- Try the local oysters from Oualidia and the fresh sardines.
- Prices in Essaouira are usually lower and sellers less insistent than in Marrakech.
- Bring sun protection – the wind makes you forget how strong the sun is.
Discover more
Combine Essaouira with other excursions: read the best day trips from Marrakech and our Moroccan food guide. Book on WhatsApp: +212 606-957514.