Map of Essaouira, Morocco

🏖️ What to do in Essaouira

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of Essaouira with a variety of exciting activities to explore. From windsurfing on the Atlantic coast to wandering the labyrinthine streets of the medina, there's something for every traveler to enjoy.

• Best Budget Activity in Essaouira:

  Visit to Essaouira Beach: Spend a relaxing day sunbathing on the golden sands, exploring the lively beachside market, or trying your hand at camel rides along the shore.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Essaouira:

  Guided Tour of Essaouira Medina: Discover the charm of the historic medina with a local guide, meander through the bustling souks, marvel at the ancient architecture, and sample traditional Moroccan street food.

• Best Luxury Activity in Essaouira:

  Horseback Riding on the Beach: Experience the beauty of Essaouira's coastline on a guided horseback riding excursion, trotting along the sandy shore as you admire the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

🍽️ Where to eat in Essaouira

Experience the vibrant flavors of Essaouira's culinary scene, known for its fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and traditional Moroccan dishes. Indulge in must-try delicacies like grilled sardines, tagines, and mint tea for a truly authentic dining experience.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Essaouira:

  Chez Sam•$:

  Moroccan street food with a twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Essaouira:

  Ocean Vagabond•$$:

  International cuisine with a focus on seafood

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Essaouira:

  Villa Maroc•$$$:

  Fine dining Moroccan and French fusion cuisine

• Best Budget Bar in Essaouira:

  Taros•$:

  Freshly squeezed orange juice or local wine

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Essaouira:

  La Cantina•$$:

  Mojitos and tapas platters

• Best Luxury Bar in Essaouira:

  Caravane Café•$$$:

  Signature cocktails and gourmet bar bites

🕌 What to see in Essaouira

Step back in time and explore the historical wonders of Essaouira, a city steeped in culture and charm. From ancient fortifications to vibrant markets, each landmark beckons you to discover the beauty and history of this Moroccan gem.

• Skala de la Ville:

  Explore the imposing seafront ramparts and cannons of Skala de la Ville, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the picturesque Essaouira medina.

• Essaouira Medina:

  Wander the narrow alleyways of the UNESCO-listed medina, a labyrinth of traditional shops, vibrant street art, and hidden courtyards filled with local artisans.

• Moulay Hassan Square:

  Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Moulay Hassan Square, where you can sip mint tea at sidewalk cafes, shop for souvenirs, and witness daily life unfold in the heart of Essaouira.

• Essaouira Port:

  Experience the bustling activity of Essaouira Port, where colorful fishing boats bob in the harbor, fishermen mend nets, and seagulls swoop overhead in search of fresh catches.

• Place Moulay el Hassan:

  Admire the grandeur of Place Moulay el Hassan, the main square of Essaouira, lined with historic buildings, bustling markets, and charming cafes perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local culture.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Essaouira

Indulge in a shopping extravaganza in Essaouira, where you can find everything from colorful textiles and intricate handicrafts to exotic spices and unique souvenirs. Explore the bustling markets and boutique shops scattered across the city, offering a treasure trove of Moroccan delights waiting to be discovered.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Essaouira:

  Essaouira Souk: Dive into the vibrant chaos of Essaouira Souk, where you can haggle for local goods like leather bags, handmade jewelry, spices, and traditional Moroccan rugs at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Essaouira:

  Chbanate Art Gallery: Browse through the artistic marvels at Chbanate Art Gallery, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary Moroccan art, intricate woodwork, pottery, and textiles perfect for unique souvenir hunting.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Essaouira:

  Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah Museum Shop: Treat yourself to exquisite luxury items at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah Museum Shop, where you can find premium handcrafted souvenirs, designer clothing, high-quality ceramics, and ornate home decor pieces inspired by Moroccan craftsmanship.

🚍 Getting Around Essaouira

• Public Transport

  In Essaouira, the main form of public transportation is the bus. The local bus service covers various routes within the city and its surrounding areas. The buses are affordable, with prices typically ranging between 3-10 MAD depending on the distance traveled. The schedule varies, but buses generally run from early morning to late evening.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Bus Terminal: The main bus terminal in Essaouira is located near the city center, making it easy to access from different parts of the city. From here, you can catch buses to various destinations within Essaouira and neighboring towns. - Taxi Stands: Taxis are also a popular mode of transportation in Essaouira. You can find taxi stands throughout the city where you can easily hail a taxi.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: For more flexibility in exploring Essaouira and its surroundings, car rental services are available from reputable companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar. Prices start from around 250 MAD per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: To enjoy a more leisurely exploration of Essaouira, you can rent bicycles from various shops and vendors in the city. Prices for bicycle rentals typically start from 50 MAD for a half-day.