Things To Do
in Essaouira
Essaouira is a charming coastal town in Morocco, renowned for its well-preserved medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town features stunning whitewashed buildings with blue accents, vibrant artisan shops, and a bustling fishing port. Known for its strong winds, Essaouira is also a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts.
The blend of Moroccan, Portuguese, and French influences creates a unique atmosphere that captivates visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at a local café, then wander through the narrow streets of the medina, exploring artisan shops selling leather goods, pottery, and jewelry.
Visit the historic Skala de la Ville, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and the city. Afterward, grab lunch at a seafood restaurant on the harbor.
Stroll along the beach at sunset, then enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Moroccan tagine, followed by live music at a nearby café.
Visit the Moulay Hassan Square to experience the local vibe and grab a coffee. Then, head to the Essaouira Citadel for a glimpse into the town's military history.
Take a trip to the nearby Argan oil cooperatives to learn about the oil-making process. Enjoy a light lunch at a café in the countryside.
Return to Essaouira for a sunset walk along the ramparts, then dine at a traditional Moroccan restaurant and experience the local nightlife at a bar with live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $5 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and historic architecture.
- Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
- Less crowded than other Moroccan cities like Marrakech.
- Wind can be strong and disruptive during certain seasons.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Some attractions may have inconsistent opening hours.
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Bslama" - Goodbye
- "La, shukran" - No, thank you
- "Afak" - Please
- "Kif halak?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Essaouira
Visit one of these nice places.
This historic rampart offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the medina, making it a perfect spot for sunset photography.
Capture the beautiful architecture and ocean views from this impressive fortification.
A vibrant hub of life in Essaouira, ideal for capturing the local culture and street scenes.
Food in Essaouira
Essaouira Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, often served in a distinctive conical pot.
Must-Try!
Fluffy steamed semolina grains typically served with vegetables and meat, often enjoyed on Fridays.
Caught daily, Essaouira's seafood is grilled or fried, served with local spices and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling square filled with street food vendors offering grilled seafood and local delicacies.
The local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
While Essaouira is more liberal than other Moroccan cities, dressing modestly is still recommended, especially in rural areas.
A handshake is common among men, while men and women may greet each other with a friendly nod or smile.
Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Essaouira
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants and cafes, especially if service is not included.
Credit cards are accepted in many establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures are mild, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the medina.
Warm weather attracts many tourists; however, the coastal breeze provides a pleasant relief from the heat.
This is an ideal time for budget travelers as prices drop after the summer rush, and the weather remains comfortable.
Cooler temperatures can be expected, but it's still a beautiful time to visit, with fewer tourists and a chance to experience local festivals.
Essaouira at Night
Hiking in Essaouira
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural area about an hour's drive from Essaouira, offering beautiful hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.
A mountain area near Essaouira, providing challenging trails and breathtaking vistas for more experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Essaouira by plane.
Located about 15 km from the city center, this small airport offers flights to and from major cities in Morocco as well as seasonal international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Morocco, known for their rich cultural heritage and contributions to the local economy through crafts and agriculture.
Essaouira attracts a diverse range of travelers from around the globe, particularly those interested in culture, history, and water sports.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Essaouira, with local teams frequently playing matches and many residents passionately following national leagues.
Given Essaouira's windy coastal conditions, windsurfing is a favored activity among locals and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Essaouira.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to confirm with the chef.
Couscous contains gluten, but many Moroccan dishes are naturally gluten-free, such as tagines and grilled meats.