Essaouira walking tour & city guide
A windy, whitewashed port on the Atlantic.
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Essaouira is a relaxed seaside town on Morocco's Atlantic coast, with a whitewashed medina, blue shutters and sea walls battered by waves. Constant trade winds make it a favorite of windsurfers and kitesurfers, and its laid-back, artistic atmosphere is a welcome contrast to Marrakech.
The medina and the ramparts
Essaouira's medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was laid out in the 18th century by a French architect for Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, which explains its unusually straight streets. It is full of art galleries, workshops of thuya wood carvers, spice shops and small cafés.
The Skala de la Ville, the sea ramparts lined with old bronze cannons, offer dramatic views of the waves crashing on the rocks. Fans may recognize them from Game of Thrones, where they appeared as part of Astapor.
The port and the beach
The fishing port is one of the most colorful in Morocco, with blue wooden boats, nets and seagulls everywhere. Fishermen sell their catch at the harbor, and nearby stalls will grill it for you on the spot.
South of the medina, a long sandy beach stretches along the bay, popular for walks, horse and camel rides and wind sports. The Gnawa World Music Festival, held each summer, fills the town with music.
Visiting tips
Essaouira is about three hours from Marrakech by bus. Bring a jacket, as the wind keeps the town cooler than inland Morocco, even in summer. Argan oil cooperatives run by women can be visited on the road from Marrakech.
Top sights in Essaouira
- 1
Skala de la Ville
Sea ramparts with old cannons.
- 2
Essaouira medina
A UNESCO-listed whitewashed old town.
- 3
Fishing port
Blue boats and the daily catch.
- 4
Essaouira beach
A wide bay for walks and kitesurfing.
- 5
Moulay Hassan Square
The main square between port and medina.
- 6
Thuya wood workshops
Craftsmen carving fragrant wood.
Food markets & where to eat in Essaouira
Port fish grills
Choose fresh fish and have it grilled on the spot.
Fish market in the medina
A lively market for seafood.
Moulay Hassan Square
Café terraces facing the sea.
Medina rooftop terraces
Meals with views over the ramparts.
Food to try in Essaouira
Grilled sardines
Straight from the boats.
Fish tagine
A stew of fish, tomatoes and preserved lemon.
Amlou
A spread of argan oil, almonds and honey.
Sea urchins
Served raw at the harbor stalls.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Essaouira
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in EssaouiraCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Essaouira.
- eSIM for MoroccoStay online from the moment you land.
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