Essaouira - Discovering Morocco

Travelling to Essaouira

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Essaouira, a pretty good destination in Morocco (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Essaouira and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Essaouira, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Morocco, here's everything to know about Essaouira for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Essaouira

Essaouira is a beautiful coastal city located in the western region of Morocco. It is known for its stunning beaches, historic fortifications, and vibrant culture. The city was established in the 18th century and has since become a popular destination for tourists seeking a mixture of relaxation and cultural exploration. Essaouira has a mild climate all year round, with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day. The city is also known for its vibrant art and music scenes, with many artists and musicians calling it home. Additionally, Essaouira's medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways filled with vibrant markets and artisan shops.

What to visit in Essaouira

Sure, here are the tourist attractions of Essaouira along with some information: 1. Essaouira Beach: This beautiful beach is known for its clean waters and cool winds, which makes it a popular spot for surfing and windsurfing. The beach stretches over several kilometers and has plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops along the way.
2. Essaouira Medina: This historic walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to numerous souks selling a wide range of products such as textiles, spices, and ceramics. The Medina is also known for its narrow alleys and bustling squares, where you can find musicians and street performers.
3. Skala de la Ville: This sea-facing rampart is one of the most iconic landmarks of Essaouira. It was built in the 18th century to protect the city from enemy invaders and provides spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Essaouira Citadel: This impressive fortress is located at the heart of the Medina and was built by Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah to protect the city. The Citadel is renowned for its stunning architecture and ornate decoration.
5. Moulay Hassan Square: This bustling square is located in the heart of the Medina and is home to many cafes, shops and restaurants. It is a great place to sit and relax while watching street performers and local merchants selling their wares.
6. Essaouira Fishing Port: This bustling port is a hub of activity and is known for its colorful fishing boats, fresh seafood, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can take a tour of the port, watch fishermen at work, and even buy fresh fish right off the boat.
7. Essaouira Jewish Quarter: This historic quarter is located within the Medina and is home to a small Jewish community. Visitors can visit the many synagogues and learn about the history and culture of this fascinating community.
8. Essaouira Art Galleries: Essaouira is known for its vibrant art scene and is home to many galleries showcasing the works of local artists. Visitors can browse through a wide range of paintings, sculptures, and other contemporary artworks.
These are some of the top tourist attractions of Essaouira. Visitors are sure to find something of interest no matter what their tastes and preferences are.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Morocco, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Essaouira.

When to go on holiday to Essaouira

The best time to go on holiday to Essaouira is during the spring or fall months, which are from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F), making it comfortable to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities. The high season is from June to August, but it can be quite hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) or higher. It is also important to note that Essaouira is a coastal city, and it can get quite windy throughout the year, so make sure to pack layers and a windbreaker.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Essaouira

There are a few ways to get to Essaouira from different locations in Morocco: 1. By bus: CTM and Supratours operate daily bus services from many cities in Morocco, including Marrakech, Casablanca, and Agadir, to Essaouira. The journey from Marrakech to Essaouira takes around 2.5 hours.
2. By car: You can also rent a car and drive to Essaouira from major cities such as Marrakech or Agadir. The drive takes about 2.5-3 hours.
3. By taxi: You can take a shared or private taxi from Marrakech to Essaouira, and the journey takes around 2 hours.
4. By air: Essaouira has its own airport, Mogador Airport, with flights from Paris and some other European cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the city center.
Overall, the easiest and most popular way to get to Essaouira is by bus from Marrakech or other major cities in Morocco.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Essaouira, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Essaouira

Sure, here are typical foods of Essaouira, Morocco with a short description for each of them: 1. Tagine: A traditional Moroccan stew made with meat or vegetables, and seasoned with sweet and savory spices. It is slow-cooked in a clay pot called a tagine, which gives it a unique flavor.
2. Fish: Being a coastal city, fish plays an important role in Essaouira's cuisine. You can try grilled sardines, sea bass, or the famous Moroccan fish chermoula, which is marinated in a blend of spices, herbs, and lemon juice.
3. Harira: A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes. It's often served during Ramadan as a starter for the evening meal to break the fast.
4. Pastilla: A savory pie made with layers of phyllo dough filled with meat (usually chicken or pigeon), almonds, and spices. It's then dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
5. Tanjia: A slow-cooked meat dish made with beef, spices, and preserved lemon. It is cooked in a traditional earthenware pot and its preparation takes almost a day.
6. Couscous: A staple Moroccan dish made with tiny granules of durum wheat served with a variety of vegetables and meat or fish.
7. Chebakia: A sweet, crunchy pastry that is often served during Ramadan. It's made with sesame seeds, flour, honey, and spices, and then cut into flower shapes and deep-fried.
8. Mint tea: Lastly, no trip to Morocco is complete without trying the famous mint tea. It's a sweet, fragrant tea made with fresh mint leaves and served in small glasses with sugar cubes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Morocco here.

Is Essaouira an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other Moroccan destinations, Essaouira can be considered a bit expensive for tourists. However, the prices for accommodations, restaurants, and activities are relatively reasonable compared to the average prices in other European destinations. Additionally, there are budget-friendly options available, such as staying in a hostel or eating at local street food vendors. Overall, it is possible to enjoy Essaouira without breaking the bank, but it is important to plan your budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Essaouira

The best areas to find accommodation in Essaouira to stay at are the medina, the beachfront area, and the new town. The medina offers a traditional Moroccan experience with its narrow streets and bustling souks, while the beachfront area has a more modern vibe and is great for those who want to be close to the sand and surf. The new town is ideal for those who prefer a more cosmopolitan atmosphere and modern amenities. All three areas have a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly hostels to high-end hotels and resorts.
You can check hotel prices at Essaouira here:
Booking.com

Is Essaouira a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Essaouira is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in the city is relatively low, and violent crime against tourists is rare. However, like in any other city, tourists should still exercise caution and take basic safety measures, such as keeping their valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings, particularly in crowded or tourist areas. It's also a good idea to check with local authorities or tourist agencies regarding any potential safety concerns or areas to avoid.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Morocco here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Essaouira.

What type of travelers will enjoy Essaouira the most?

Essaouira can be a great destination for all types of travelers, but it particularly appeals to couples and families. Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the city, with its charming white and blue buildings, stunning beaches, and picturesque harbor. They can take romantic walks along the beach, enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional wooden boat, or wander through the quaint streets of the medina, hand in hand.
Families will appreciate the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere of Essaouira, along with its many family-friendly attractions such as surfing, kiteboarding, camel rides on the beach, and horseback riding. There are also plenty of activities and cultural experiences to keep kids entertained, such as visiting the Skala de la Ville, exploring the Essaouira Citadel or taking a cooking class.
Young people looking for fun can also have a great time in Essaouira, thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants. They can also enjoy surfing and windsurfing on the famous beaches and enjoy the many local events that take place throughout the year.

How to get around Essaouira

In Essaouira, you can move around using different transportations such as walking, taxis, and buses. Taxis are the most common way to get around the city, and they are reasonably priced. Buses are also available but less frequent, and you might need to plan ahead of time. Walking is an option if you prefer to explore the city on foot. The medina is a pedestrian area, and the surrounding neighborhoods are easily walkable. Bicycles and motorbikes are also available for rent if you want to explore further outside the city.

What to see around Essaouira

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Essaouira: 1. Sidi Kaouki: A small coastal village around 25km south of Essaouira, known for its pristine beaches and surfing opportunities.
2. Moulay Bouzerktoun: Another small coastal village around 25km north of Essaouira, famous for its world-class windsurfing and kitesurfing spots.
3. The Mogador Island: Located just a few kilometers off the coast of Essaouira, it is an uninhabited island that boasts stunning landscapes, bird watching opportunities, and a historic fort.
4. The Argan Forest: Located around 12km southeast of Essaouira, this forest is home to the endangered Argan tree, from which the famous Argan oil is produced. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the traditional oil-making process.
5. The Ounagha Village: A small rural village around 30km east of Essaouira, renowned for its pottery and traditional artisans. Visitors can visit the local workshops and buy handmade pottery.
These are just a few of the many amazing day trip destinations near Essaouira.
For every travel information about Morocco you can click here.

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