Are you planning to visit Essaouira in Morocco? Discover our selection of must-do activities to make the most of this desert gem.
Essaouira is strategically located on the Atlantic coast and has been an important trading port since the 15th century. Different populations and cultures have lived side by side in harmony for centuries, creating a city with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Its many monuments give it a charm not found elsewhere in Morocco.
Between mosques, synagogues, fortifications, beaches and markets, a visit to Essaouira is sure to be unforgettable.
1. The Medina
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Nella
Visiting Essaouira means soaking up the typical Moroccan atmosphere. And what better way to meet the locals than by strolling through the narrow streets of the Medina? You’ll wander from souk to restaurant, shopping and sipping tea. The various souks offer all kinds of souvenirs and gifts: spices, olives, handicrafts… The charm of the historic center and the cheeky manner of the shopkeepers will ensure you have a great time.
The Medina is surrounded by fortifications that can be climbed. If you’re looking for something to do in Essaouira, the Medina is a must. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.
2. The ramparts
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Matej Kastelic
Essaouira’s ramparts were built in the 18th century to protect the town from foreign invasion. Essaouira was Morocco’s main commercial port at the time, and Sultan Mohamed Ben Abdallah decided to build fortifications to protect it. French architect Théodore Cornut was chosen to design the ramparts and oversee the work. A pupil of the Marquis de Vauban, he created an enclosure around the Medina inspired by the fortifications of Saint-Malo.
On the town side, the fortress is pierced by monumental gates. Towards the ocean, you can climb the ramparts to the sqala, and admire the twenty or so Spanish cannons pointing out to sea. From the top of the tower, you’ll have a view of the Medina, the sea and the offshore islets.
3. The fishing port
Photo credit: Flickr – Citizen59
The port of Essaouira is deeply linked to the city’s history and a must-see if you’re visiting Essaouira. Once known as the « port of Timbuktu », it served as a link between the trans-Saharan routes to Black Africa and the major maritime trade routes. Today, it remains one of Morocco’s three most important sardine ports. It’s certainly the liveliest place in town, especially in the early afternoon. The fishing boats come in and unload the day’s catch, under the watchful eye of seagulls, cormorants and cats waiting their turn with varying degrees of patience. The sea breams, sardines and other shellfish are then sold at the fish auction, in a cacophonous but organized atmosphere.
A few steps away, gargotes cook these fresh products for instant tasting. In summer, you may be lucky enough to witness an impromptu diving contest. The town’s children gather for ever more impressive jumps, from pontoons or even fortifications and towers. A shipyard is also on site, building wooden trawls by hand. An interesting place to visit if you’re looking for a day out in Essaouira.
4. The sunset
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Sebastien Palud
Admiring a sunset is one of the must-do activities if you plan to visit Essaouira. The town’s geographical position and picturesque buildings offer breathtaking scenery as the sun declines over the horizon. Birds, their shadows silhouetted against a backdrop of orange light, will be the ideal models for your photo shoot.
For the best spots to watch the sunset, we recommend the sqala de la Kasbah, next to the cannons. You can also head to the port or stroll around the port sqala, to see the iridescent colors of dusk reflected on the ramparts.
5. The souks
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Christian Mueller
If you’re looking for something to do in Essaouira, then don’t miss a shopping spree in the city’s various souks. Less touristy than those in big cities like Marrakech or Agadir, they have managed to remain authentic. You’ll find original handicrafts that stand out from those of the rest of the country. In the jewelry souk, you’ll find jewellers who create pieces by hand before your very eyes. The leather goods and marquetry workshops are also full of surprises.
Food-wise, we’ll take a look at the meat souk. The fish souk is housed in a building protected by a beautiful glass roof, giving it an undeniable cachet. Choose your fresh fish and have it cooked in one of the many stalls that complete the building. The spice souk will amaze you with its colorful, symmetrically arranged piles of raz-el-hanout, cumin and paprika.
6. The beach
Photo credit: Flickr – Anaïs
The main beach stretches for several kilometers between the fortress and the south of the town. Here you can relax on deckchairs, enjoy a drink or sample Moroccan specialities in the sunshine. The blond sand caressed by the swell makes Essaouira’s beach one of the most beautiful in Morocco. Admire the arabesques of kite surfing sails against the blue sky, as surfers cut through the waves and pass each other in a well-oiled ballet.
For the more sporty, you can take lessons or simply hire equipment. South of the beach, you’ll find camels to take you for a ride, a perfect activity if you’re looking for something to do in Essaouira with children.
7. The village of Diabat
Photo credit: Shutterstock / S.Hanusch
Just 3 kilometers south of Essaouira lies the charming village of Diabat. Its beautiful beach is ideal for water sports activities, and there’s a choice of upscale accommodation as well as guest houses. Diabat is home to the sandy Dar Sultan Palace, former residence of Sultan Mohamed Ben Abdallah, overlooking theOued Ksob estuary. Diabat is also known to have been frequented by hippies in the 1970s. Singer Jimmy Hendrix stayed here and is said to have used the sandy palace as inspiration for his famous song « Castle made of sand ».
8. Women’s argan oil cooperatives
Photo credit: Shutterstock / danm12
The argan tree, which produces the fruit from which Argan oil is extracted, grows only in Morocco. More precisely, in the Essaouira-Tiznit-Taroudant triangle.
Just a few kilometers from Essaouira, you’ll find cooperatives run by women who work the fruit of the argan tree to produce certified organic edible or cosmetic oil. This miraculous oil, prized by top chefs and cosmetics laboratories alike, provides an income for Berber women and their families. You’ll meet the workers and learn all about the production process. You’ll learn that it takes 35 kilograms of dried fruit and 20 hours of work to produce one liter of Argan oil. A visit to Essaouira will allow you to take this luxury product home directly from the producer.
9. Simon Attias’ synagogue
Photo credit: Shutterstok / LOUIS-MICHEL DESERT
The Mellah is Essaouira’s ancient Jewish quarter. Until the 19th century, Essaouira was home to a large Jewish population, which left many architectural testimonials, such as the Simon Attias synagogue. This religious building is remarkably well preserved. Its 500 square meters are divided over three levels, between a prayer hall, a cultural center and a museum of Judaism. Take a look at the wrought-iron mezzanine, once reserved for women. The synagogue was renovated in 2015 using old materials to preserve its original appearance.
10. Steam rooms
Photo credit: Flickr – avoulot
The hammam is an inseparable part of Moroccan culture, and is the activity of choice when visiting Essaouira. Most hotels have a hammam, but to soak up the true Moroccan atmosphere, we recommend a visit to a public bath.
It’s not easy to understand all the codes and rituals right away, but you’re sure to have a great time. For an even more perfect relaxation session, the staff also offer massages and scrubs.
11. A walk in the desert
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Vixit
There are several options for venturing into the desert and capturing its special atmosphere. This vast expanse of sand is accessible by 4×4, quad bike or camel. Three-hour quad tours allow you to take in the scenery and experience the thrill of the ride.
For the adventurous, excursions lasting several days are organized. Camp around the fire, gazing up at the stars and milky way, untouched by light pollution. After a traditional Berber meal, you’ll fall asleep to the sound of the crackling blaze, before another extraordinary day.
How to get to Essaouira
By plane
Essaouira-Mogador airport serves the town of Essaouira. It is located 18 kilometers from the city center and is easily accessible by cab.
There are regular flights from France. EasyJet offers flights from Lyon and Bordeaux, Transavia from Paris-Orly and RyanAir from Marseille. You can also reach Essaouira from Brussels or Casablanca. In any case, use a flight comparator like Ulysse to find the best flight deals to Essaouira.
By bus from Marrakech
From Marrakech, several companies such as Supratours and CTM offer a 3-hour drive to Essaouira. The cost is around €7. Supratours drops you off directly in Essaouira town center. Departures take place several times a day. From Agadir, the companies and journey times are the same. The fare is €12 return.
Where to stay in Essaouira?
You’ll find some very nice hotels in the heart of Essaouira’s medina. Choose establishments located in the narrow streets or by the sea. If you have heavy luggage, choose a hotel not far from the gates of the medina, as cars are not allowed inside.
To the south of the town, near Tagharte beach, you’ll find a number of beautiful riads offering top-of-the-range services. In any case, look for accommodation on a hotel comparator like Booking. You’ll find the best offers according to your criteria and budget, and benefit from the comments and opinions of previous travelers.
Map of hotels and accommodation – Essaouira