What to do and see in Essaouira

Essaouira, Morocco

What to do and see in Essaouira, Essaouira is a city on the Moroccan Atlantic coast that is beaten by the trade winds and has a population of about 80,000. This place is a beautiful town with one of the best beaches in Morocco and a rich history that has made it one of the most fascinating places on the entire Atlantic coast of the country.

Essaouira weather

Due to the large influx of tourists, mainly French, the city has become a center for cosmopolitan summer and one of the main tourist destinations in the area. This means that walking through its beautiful medina can become overwhelming during the summer, which is the time of most affluence.

What is Essaouira known for

One of the points that most attracts Essaouira’s attention is its European layout in the form of a grid and its urban areas surrounded by old bastions, as projected at the end of the 18th century. Although it is becoming a very tourist city, those who prefer a location away from the tension of bargaining and the pushes of the big cities will opt for Essaouira on their trip to Morocco.

UNESCO World Heritage

Tourism here is in full expansion for being an exceptional spa place and for its natural reserve on the island Mogador and for its medina, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. At the foot of the Great Atlas, Essaouira rises on a nearby rocky island facing the ocean, surrounded by hills, forests, and dunes. It enjoys an exceptional microclimate that favors cereal crops, goat grazing, and forestry production, which is the basis of its economy.

Moroccan Handicraft in Essaouira

Its craftsmanship is rich and varied, witnessing cultural exchange. In addition, the ‘source’, known here, are masters in goldsmithing, marquetry, and joinery, especially of the wood of ‘thuya’. It offers other treasures, such as Argan oil, and fishing is an important sector of activity thanks to its fishing port. Its artisanal shipyards are the heart of Essaouira, unique in the world.

Essaouira and famous artists

Since the end of the 20th century, the curious arrival of adventurers and artists such as Frank Zappa and Jimi Hendrix has given the city particular renown.

History of Essaouira

As a good port city, Essaouira has been from an ancient crossroads of peoples and civilizations. In the 5th century BC, it was founded under the rule of Phoenicians and Carthaginians. Then it was in the hands of the Romans, a time when it was an area primarily known for its production of purple: they occupied the islets off their coasts to explode. This mollusk was used to obtain the purple color. The Archaeological Museum of Rabat shows evidence of the settlements and purple factories of the Island of Mogador.

Essaouira Medina

With the arrival of the Portuguese in the sixteenth century, the city was renamed Mogador. It is here that the famous Portuguese buildings were erected, which are among the most exciting places to see in Essaouira. Later it was taken over and refounded by Sultan Sidi Mohamed Ben Adellah in 1764, who gave the city’s current name. To promote maritime trade, he created a port that would overshadow the city of Agadir. In addition, it was under this sultanate that the city took the form it has today, both for the main monuments of the medina and the defensive constructions of the city. Since then, it has been inhabited by Arabs and Berber tribes and by an essential colony of Jews who enjoyed greater liberties and privileges than in the rest of the country.

Sqala du port Essaouira

The port of Essaouira has a long and fascinating history. In the past, it was one of the most important ports in the country, serving as a key hub for trade and commerce in the region. During the French Protectorate, the port of Essaouira lost some of its prominences and its activity was gradually diverted to other ports, such as Casablanca. However, the port of Essaouira still holds a significant position in the region and plays an essential role in the local economy and culture. Visitors can explore the lively port, appreciate the breathtaking ocean views, and soak up the unique atmosphere of this charming coastal town. With its bustling fishing industry, vibrant cafes and restaurants, and historic architecture, Essaouira’s port is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Morocco.

What to see in Essaouira

Essaouira is a beautiful city that seems to have been frozen in time. Its serene atmosphere and pleasant vibe make it an ideal peaceful and relaxing vacation destination. The city is blessed with mild weather throughout the year, and its sandy beach is considered one of the best in Morocco. That’s why it’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through southern Morocco. Essaouira is also known as ‘the city of the wind’ due to the trade winds that blow in from the Atlantic Ocean. This feature makes it a favorite destination among windsurfers worldwide who flock to the city to take advantage of the perfect conditions for their sport. Whether you’re a windsurfer or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Essaouira is a destination that won’t disappoint.

Essaouira, Mogador

There’s an abundance of fascinating sights to see and explore in Essaouira. One of the city’s highlights is its stunning medina, with its wide streets lined with galleries, numerous craft workshops, small shops, cafes, and restaurants. As soon as you pass through one of the medina’s three grand gates – Bab Sbâa, Bab Marrakech, and Bab Doukhala -, you’ll be immediately immersed in a lively and vibrant atmosphere where locals go about their daily business. The medina is the perfect place to take in the city’s sights, sounds, and smells and discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. With so much to see and explore, Essaouira is a destination that should be on every traveler’s itinerary.

Local transportation in Essaouira

One of Essaouira’s most unique and charming features is the absence of motorized vehicles in the city. Instead, everything is transported by carts pulled by mules, contributing to the city’s peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. As you wander through the streets, you’ll be struck by the striking whiteness of the house’s walls and the vivid blue of the windows and doors reminiscent of the Mediterranean islands. Essaouira’s streets are laid out in a grid pattern with perpendicular crossings, making navigating and finding your way around the city easy. Even if you get lost in the labyrinth of streets, you’ll quickly return to one of the main thoroughfares. Essaouira’s unique character and welcoming atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking an authentic and memorable Moroccan experience.

What is Essaouira known for

The part of the medina that concentrates the most activity is between the Oqba Ibn Naffia avenues, where the famous clock tower is located, and l’Istiqlal and SIdi Mohammed Ibn Abdallah, where the largest mosque in Essaouira is located, ‘Ibn Youssef ‘. Nearby is the market of Souk el Jdid, where all the vendors are lined up, with stalls selling vegetables, spices, and meat, as well as a fish market.

Historical monuments in Essaouira

Essaouira’s medina is easily accessible from two main gates: Bab el Menzah and Bab Sbaa. The latter is located near the Place Moulay Hassan, a charming square surrounded by trees and cozy cafes where visitors can enjoy mint tea while watching the daily activities of the locals, known as Souiris. From there, you can stroll through the city and pass through the Door of the Marine, which leads to the bustling port area. Here, you’ll see fishermen’s boxes piled high and have the opportunity to visit the shipyard, where skilled artisans still build wooden boats by hand. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the Orson Welles square, which features a plaque commemorating the renowned film director’s contribution to the city’s fame. In his film “Othello,” Essaouira was the primary location, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural heritage. With so much history and charm, Essaouira is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Morocco.

Traditional Moroccan architecture

From Moulay Hassan Square, we arrive at Skala street, whose layout is parallel to the medina’s walls. The forts of the old city are a mixture of Portuguese, French, and Berber military architecture, and its solidity gives it a powerful mysticism.

Scala the Kasbah, Essaouira

And we arrive at the Skala of the Kasbah, the stronghold of Essaouira, more than 200 meters in length, surrounded by walls that face the sea, where you can admire a magnificent battery of cannons directed towards the ocean. This construction was the main fortress Sidi Mohammed Ibn Abdallah built to defend the city. There are fantastic sea views; this was where Orson Welles shot part of his version of Othello. It is an ideal place to take some photos.

Bab Labhar gate in Essaouira

We access the port from the Moulay Hassan square through the Bab Labhar gate, built in the sultanate of Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah, in the neoclassical style. We arrived at one of the most peculiar and lively places to see in Essaouira, full of small and fishing boats. You can find many places where we can eat fish and seafood at a reasonable price here.

Castelo Real of Mogador

As we explore Essaouira, we’ll soon encounter a historic fortress that is a hallmark of the city’s identity. The castle and the seagulls circling above it are iconic symbols of Essaouira’s rich history and culture. From the tower of Skala du Port, visitors can take in fantastic views of the harbor and the surrounding area, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts. This attraction is open to the public for visiting hours from 8:30 am to 12 noon and from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Essaouira’s history and charm fully. With its stunning architecture, incredible views, and cultural significance, Skala du Port is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.

Old Jewish cemetery of Essaouira

Beyond the medina’s gates lie several other intriguing areas of Essaouira. You can reach the cemeteries by sea by passing through the gates of Bab Marrakech and Bab Sebaa. Alternatively, you can explore the old Jewish quarter, the Mellah, by taking Rue Allal Ben Abdallah. While this part of the city was once a thriving center of Jewish life, it’s currently in a state of decay, as many of its former inhabitants left following the Six-Day War and emigrated to Israel. Despite its present condition, the Mellah still holds a rich history and offers a glimpse into Essaouira’s diverse cultural past.

Essaouira and its beach

Essaouira’s beach is undoubtedly one of the city’s most fantastic attractions. With its broad expanse of sand, the beach is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. In the mornings, you’ll see joggers and other athletes enjoying the beautiful surroundings, while in the afternoons, families and volleyball players take over the sand. The bay of Essaouira is protected from the waves by the nearby island of Mogador, making it an ideal spot for windsurfing enthusiasts worldwide to take advantage of the firm and steady winds. For surfers, the coast around Essaouira offers some of the best surfing spots in Morocco, including Sidi Kaouki and Moulay Bouzarktoun, located to the south and north of the city, respectively. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or just looking to relax on the beach, Essaouira’s coast is not to be missed.

How to get to Essaouira from Marrakech and other places

Marrakech and Essaouira are separated by just 150 km. You can reach it in different ways. Here we list some of them:

Cab
The taxi rank is next to the bus station. From here, you can go to any of the nearby cities (Agadir, Marrakech, or Safi)

Buses connecting Essaouira, Marrakech, and more cities
There are daily buses that connect Marrakech and Essaouira. There are also connections to other cities, such as Safi, Agadir, El Jadida, and Casablanca. The companies that operate these routes are CTM (tel: 0524 784764) and Supratour.

Airplane
The international airport of Marrakech has located 175 km from the city. Just 15 km away in the direction of Agadir, you have another small airport with flights to or from Paris and Casablanca.

Where to eat in Essaouira

Eating well at a good price will not cost much effort in Essaouira. The town has many cafes and restaurants that serve typical Moroccan cuisine. Do not hesitate to try the fish at any stalls between the port and Moulay Hassan Square. It is fresh from the sea, a feast for the palate, and reasonably priced.

Eat cheap in Essaouira.

Snack Paradise Mogador: 28, Avenue Abdellah Guennoun, tel + (212) 52478 4646. Good value for money has very pleasant staff and the possibility of home delivery. (approx € 5 per person).

La Rencontre: 88, rue Laaluj, tel +212 5 24 47 66 17. Good food and a nice panorama to see in Essaouira, which frames the sea and the city walls. They have menus for 12 euros per person.

Triskala Cafe: Rue Touahen, tel +212 655-585131. Spanish management restaurant. The menu changes every day and it is all fresh and of quality. (€ 5 to € 10 per person.) Highly recommended.

Feradous Restaurant: tel: 024 473655; C / Lebadi, 27. Main dishes from 40 mad. Although it is located in an area not recommended, in this place, they serve the best traditional dishes of all Essaouira. An economical option to taste local dishes.

Laayoune: Rue El Hajjali 4 bis. It offers traditional dishes at a good price. Located near Place Moulay Hassan.

Mareblú: tel: 067 646438; C / Sidi Ali Ben Abdellah. Menus from 30 mad. If you’re fed up with couscous and tajín, this restaurant serves succulent pasta dishes.

Eat in Essaouira at moderate prices.

Best seafood restaurants in Essaouira

Le Taros: located in Place Moulay Hassan. It is one of the most typical places in Essaouira. It is a Café Restaurant with a terrace and Franco-Moroccan food. Almost all tourists.

Le Chalet de la Plage: Blvd Mohammed V, tel +212 5 24 47 59 72. Very good food with very fast and attentive service, and it has fantastic views over Essaouira and its beach. Approximate price from € 10 to € 30 per person. Highly recommended

Ocean Vagabond: tel: 024 783934; Blv Mohammed V. Main courses from 60 mad. Ideal for drinking something fast and western but inadvisable if you want to taste traditional Moroccan food. It only serves pizzas, snacks, and sandwiches. At the end of the beach, kitesurfing is practiced and sheltered from the wind.

O’Bleu Mogador: 23 Rue Bouchentouf, tel +212 5247-83133. It is small and cozy and has a good meal. It is somewhat hidden. Approximate price from € 10 to € 30 per person

La Tete Dans Les Etoiles: Jardins Bin Al Aswar, tel +212 524784837. The food is excellent and the prices are very reasonable. Everything is fresh and the food is plentiful. Approximate price of € 7 to € 15 per person

Zahra’s Grill: Rue Amira Lalla Meryem, tel +212 5244-74822. Restaurant with excellent food and service. Good fish and meat. Star dish: boiled rice with lobster. Approximate price of € 10 – € 20 per person. Recommended

Le Patio: Rue Moulay Rachid 28 Bis. It is defined as ‘Tapas and ocean food’. It has careful decoration and a good atmosphere.

Zerda: Rue Ahmed Baba Soudani 6. Tourist restaurant with Moroccan cuisine of medium price.

The Minzah: Av Oqba Ib Bafiaa. It has a menu with international dishes. Sometimes they offer Gnawa shows.

Chez Sam: quaint restaurant in the best location of the harbor. Variety of fish and seafood. Approximate price?

Best restaurants in Essaouira

Palais L`Heure Bleue: Rue Ibn Batouta 2. Get your fame from the prestigious chef Silvain Scotti. Here Moroccan and French cuisine are combined.

L’Atlantique: art nouveau restaurant. The menu is very inclined towards fish, although other exciting alternatives exist. The food is somewhat scarce and at a high price. However, the staff is attentive and polite. The approximate price per person is from € 40 to € 100

La Table by Madada: 7 rue Youssef El Fassi, tel +212 5244-72106. It is a charming place with excellent cuisine and exceptional treatment. Sometimes you can enjoy live music and serve alcohol at the table. Price € 20 – € 40 per person. Highly recommended.

Nightlife

There is an alcohol store near the Bab Doukala gate, but the truth is that Essaouira does not have a great nighttime activity.

Café Restaurant: Bab Laachour (Moulay Hassan Square). Another place to drink something

Taros Café: (tel: 024 476407; C / Du Skala). This place has a nice terrace to have the typical mint tea.