Essaouira
Marrakech-Safi

Essaouira

Coastal city with fortified medina, known for its blue fishing boats, strong winds for water sports, and artistic community.

At a Glance

Best Time to Visit
Spring, Summer
Top Activities
Water sports, Medina exploration

Must-Visit Places in Essaouira

Discover the top attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems

Art Galleries and Craft Workshops
📍Place
📍Place
4.5(4500)

Art Galleries and Craft Workshops

Various locations in Medina, Essaouira, Morocco

Essaouira is known as an artists' colony with numerous galleries showcasing local art, and workshops producing thuya wood crafts, jewelry, and musical instruments.

2-3 hours
0 MAD
Visit thuya wood workshopsBrowse local art galleriesWatch Gnaoua instrument makers at work
Best time:Morning, Afternoon
Essaouira Beach
📍Place
🏖️Beach
4.5(11200)

Essaouira Beach

Essaouira Beach, Essaouira, Morocco

Long sandy beach known for constant winds, making it a world-famous destination for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and water sports enthusiasts.

2-4 hours
0 MAD
Perfect for wind-based water sportsHorse and camel rides availableLess crowded than other Moroccan beaches
Best time:Morning, Afternoon
Essaouira Medina (UNESCO World Heritage)
🏛️Cultural
🏺Historical
4.7(15600)

Essaouira Medina (UNESCO World Heritage)

Medina, Essaouira, Morocco

Historic fortified city with whitewashed buildings and blue shutters, known for its well-preserved 18th-century European military architecture mixed with Moroccan style.

3-4 hours
0 MAD
Get lost in the narrow blue and white streetsVisit the artisan workshops and galleriesEnjoy the laid-back atmosphere
Best time:Morning, Late afternoon
Essaouira Fishing Port
🏛️Cultural
📍Place
4.4(7800)

Essaouira Fishing Port

Fishing Port, Essaouira, Morocco

Bustling fishing harbor where colorful boats bring in the daily catch, with fish auctions and seafood restaurants serving incredibly fresh fish.

1-2 hours
0 MAD
Visit in the morning for the freshest fishWatch the fish auction actionTry grilled sardines at the portside stalls
Best time:Morning, Early afternoon
Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
🏛️Cultural
🏺Historical
4.3(3200)

Mellah (Jewish Quarter)

Mellah, Essaouira Medina, Morocco

Historic Jewish quarter with distinctive architecture, synagogues, and a rich cultural heritage reflecting Essaouira's history as a multicultural trading port.

1-2 hours
0 MAD
Learn about Essaouira's Jewish heritageVisit the old synagoguesSee the distinctive architecture
Best time:Morning, Afternoon
Skala du Port
🏛️Cultural
🏺Historical
4.6(8900)

Skala du Port

Skala du Port, Essaouira Medina, Morocco

Historic sea fortress with impressive cannons lining the ramparts, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, fishing port, and Mogador Island.

1-2 hours
60 MAD
Best spot for sunset photographyWatch fishing boats return to portSee the ancient bronze cannons up close
Best time:Morning, Sunset

Where to Stay Essaouira

Find the perfect accommodation for your Moroccan adventure

Luxury Riad in Medina

Luxury Riad in Medina

4.8
Medina Center
$120156 reviews
PoolBreakfastWiFi
Desert Camp Experience

Desert Camp Experience

4.9
Sahara Desert
$80203 reviews
Camel RideDinnerBonfire
Modern City Apartment

Modern City Apartment

4.6
City Center
$6589 reviews
KitchenWiFiParking

Getting to Essaouira

Choose the best way to reach and explore this destination

ONCF Train

ONCF Train

Comfortable rail service connecting major cities

From $153 hours from Casablanca
CTM Bus

CTM Bus

Reliable bus service throughout Morocco

From $104 hours from Casablanca
Car Rental

Car Rental

Freedom to explore at your own pace

From $25/dayFlexible

Things to Do Essaouira

Experience the best activities and adventures

🏛️

Water sports

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🌅

Medina exploration

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🏜️

Art gallery visits

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🕌

Beach activities

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🛍️

Fishing port tours

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