Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD) ุฏ.ู
Essaouira, located on Moroccoโs Atlantic coast, is a peaceful, artistic city that offers visitors a more relaxed pace compared to the hustle and bustle of Marrakech. Known for its UNESCO-listed Medina, with its narrow streets, blue and white buildings, and vibrant arts scene, Essaouira is a haven for artists, musicians, and those looking to escape the crowds. The city is also famous for its excellent seafood, with fresh fish and grilled sardines being local specialties. The picturesque harbor, lined with colorful boats, adds to the cityโs charm. Essaouiraโs relaxed atmosphere is complemented by its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for surfing or simply enjoying the sun. With its blend of history, art, and natural beauty, Essaouira is a city that offers a unique, tranquil escape on Moroccoโs Atlantic coast.
Year
1764 AD Modern era, founded by the Portuguese and later developed by the Moroccans.
Airport
Essaouira-Mogador Airport (ESU)
Cost of Living (10)
3๏ธโฃ Very affordable, particularly outside the tourist season, with low costs for accommodation and food.
Minimal List TL;DR
๐ดEatMoroccan Cuisine
4.7Restaurant ADWAKA family-run restaurant known for authentic Moroccan dishes and traditional cooking methods.
Places to See
Plage d'Essaouira, Essaouira, Morocco
4.8
Free
Open 24/7
A beautiful beach offering calm waters and golden sands, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view.
2 Rue Mohammed V, Essaouira, Morocco
4.8
โฌ5 - โฌ25
10AMโ6PM
A modern gallery focusing on contemporary Moroccan art and culture.
6 Rue de l'Artisan, Essaouira, Morocco
4.7
โฌ10 - โฌ30
10AMโ6PM
Known for vibrant art exhibitions.
Vibe:
Inspirational and Bright
A gallery focusing on the works of local and international artists.
Must Visit:
Gnawa Music, Traditional Craftsmanship, Fortifications, Beaches, Seafood. Essaouira is renowned for its traditional Gnawa music, beautiful beaches, and fortifications, as well as its thriving arts scene and seafood cuisine.
Essaouira is renowned as one of the best destinations globally for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to its consistent and strong trade winds. These winds create ideal conditions for both beginner and advanced surfers. Every year, the city attracts a large number of enthusiasts, including international competitions such as the Wind and Kitesurfing World Championships, making it a premier spot for thrill-seekers.
Places to Eat
11 Rue Youssef Ben Tachfine, Essaouira, Morocco
4.8
โฌ8 - โฌ18
9AMโ9PM
A cafรฉ that combines delicious food with a cozy atmosphere.
https://www.caravanecafe.com/8 Rue du Prince, Essaouira, Morocco
4.7
โฌ15 - โฌ30
12PMโ10PM
Known for its authentic Moroccan dishes.
Vibe:
Traditional and Cozy
A traditional Moroccan restaurant offering flavorful dishes.
https://www.riadzahra.com/9 Rue de l'Authentique, Essaouira, Morocco
4.7
โฌ15 - โฌ30
1PMโ10PM
Known for its home-style Moroccan meals.
Vibe:
Intimate and Traditional
A family-run restaurant known for authentic Moroccan dishes and traditional cooking methods.
https://www.restaurantadwak.com/Rue de la Skala, Essaouira, Morocco
4.6
โฌ20 - โฌ40
12PMโ11PM
A cozy restaurant known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and intimate atmosphere.
https://www.ramsess-restaurant.com/35 Rue d'Agadir, Essaouira, Morocco
4.6
โฌ12 - โฌ25
11AMโ11PM
Known for its beautiful sunset views.
Vibe:
Panoramic and Relaxed
A rooftop bar offering incredible views and delicious food and drinks.
https://www.hungrynomad.com/22 Rue Khmissa, Essaouira, Morocco
4.6
โฌ12 - โฌ28
12PMโ10PM
Specializes in Moroccan tagines.
Vibe:
Local and Authentic
A cozy spot to enjoy traditional Moroccan tagines and couscous dishes.
https://www.restaurantkhmissa.com/๐ฝ๏ธ
ElizirTraditional Cuisine
18 Rue de la Skala
4.6
$$
12 PM - 11 PM
A great spot for traditional dishes
www.elizir.comMust Try:
๐ฆ Fresh Seafood (squid, sardines, and shellfish) ๐ Grilled Fish (served with olive oil and spices) ๐ Traditional Breads (served with dips) ๐ฅ Salads (fresh, flavorful vegetable salads) ๐ Fresh Fruits (often in juices or salads) ๐ต Mint Tea (classic Moroccan drink)
Places to Drink
Port of Essaouira, Essaouira, Morocco
4.7
โฌ15 - โฌ30
9AMโ9PM
A historic fortress offering scenic views of the port and a chance to enjoy drinks while watching the boats.
https://www.essaouira-port.com/Retro Corner, Essaouira, Morocco
4.5
โฌ12 - โฌ30
8PMโ2AM
A quirky, retro-themed bar offering cocktails and a fun vibe.
https://www.retrocorner.com/
Music & Dance:
๐ถ Gnawa Music (traditional music combining African, Arab, and Berber roots, known for its rhythm and trance-like beats), ๐ฅ Berber Drumming (instrumental music with deep cultural roots), ๐ธ Fusion Music (blending jazz with Moroccan rhythms).
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
๐ Fishing: A UNESCO-listed port city known for its seafood, particularly sardines. ๐งถ Crafts: Famous for its woodwork, jewelry, and traditional crafts. ๐ Tourism: Essaouira has a UNESCO-protected medina, attracting eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and surf tourism. ๐๏ธ Business: Crafts and tourism combine with local artisans selling products worldwide. ๐ Networking: Local festivals and events like Gnaoua World Music Festival create networking opportunities for cultural business development.
Essaouira
"In Essaouira, the wind carries creativity, culture, and coastal beauty to every corner."
Places to Shop
16 Rue Moulay Ali, Essaouira, Morocco
4.7
โฌ10 - โฌ50
10AMโ6PM
Known for its traditional Moroccan art.
Vibe:
Artistic and Authentic
A gallery displaying vibrant local artworks and handicrafts.
https://www.baytdakira.com/5 Rue de la Mode, Essaouira, Morocco
4.6
โฌ20 - โฌ60
10AMโ8PM
A boutique showcasing exclusive Moroccan fashion and accessories.
https://www.basmaboutique.com/21 Rue de la Skala, Essaouira, Morocco
4.6
โฌ10 - โฌ50
10AMโ7PM
Specializes in handcrafted Moroccan crafts.
Vibe:
Creative and Authentic
A boutique showcasing Moroccan craftsmanship, including ceramics and textiles.
https://www.salamatelier.com/
Luxury
For More Tips Read Further
Windy Essaouira Coasts
Artistic culture, windswept beaches, historical port vibes, street art, and charming cafes.
Essaouira, located on Moroccoโs Atlantic coast, is known for its well-preserved medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming city boasts stunning beaches, a rich history of maritime trade, and vibrant arts. The city was once a key port in the transatlantic slave trade, and its architecture blends Moorish, Portuguese, and French influences. Known for its fresh seafood, Essaouira is also famous for its annual Gnaoua World Music Festival, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience its unique fusion of culture, music, and history.
Essaouira, located on Morocco's Atlantic coast, is a charming city known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning architecture, and artistic vibe. The city's Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings adorned with blue shutters, giving it a distinctive Mediterranean feel. Essaouira has a rich history, with influences from Arab, Berber, Portuguese, and French cultures. The city's historical sites, such as the Moulay Hassan Square and the Skala de la Ville, offer insight into its past, while the bustling port is a testament to its long maritime heritage. Essaouira is also famous for its beautiful beaches, where visitors can relax or enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing thanks to the regionโs strong winds. The city's lively arts scene is evident in its many galleries, and it hosts the annual Gnaoua World Music Festival, attracting musicians and visitors from around the world. Essaouira is also known for its delicious seafood, with fresh fish and seafood dishes being served at numerous seaside restaurants. The combination of its artistic culture, coastal beauty, and historical charm makes Essaouira an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful, culturally rich experience.
Watch Out
Watchย out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Essaouira
Transportation
๐ Buses ๐ and taxis ๐ are common for getting around. Essaouira-Mogador Airport ๐ฌ is the primary air connection, with flights from major Moroccan cities and Europe.
City Overview
Essaouira: A Coastal Haven of Culture and Tranquility
Essaouira, located on Moroccoโs Atlantic coast, is a city that offers a perfect mix of laid-back atmosphere, vibrant arts, and breathtaking beaches. Known for its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Essaouira is a place where history and creativity thrive. The cityโs old town is a maze of whitewashed buildings and narrow streets, filled with art galleries, cafes, and handicraft shops. The port, with its blue fishing boats, adds to the charm of this coastal city.
Essaouira is also famous for its fresh seafood, with fish markets offering a range of delicious options. For beach lovers, the windswept shores of Essaouira are perfect for surfing, windsurfing, or simply relaxing by the sea. The city is home to a thriving arts scene, with annual festivals like the Gnawa Music Festival, which celebrates the unique sounds of Moroccan music.
With its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and rich cultural history, Essaouira is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat, a taste of Moroccan culture, and natural beauty.
3 Day City Guide
๐ Day 1: Morning: Visit the Essaouira Citadel ๐ฐ. Afternoon: Explore the medina ๐๏ธ. Evening: Dinner at a seafood restaurant ๐ฆ. ๐
Day 2: Morning: Take a camel ride on the beach ๐ซ. Afternoon: Visit local galleries and studios ๐จ. Evening: Attend a music festival if available ๐ถ. ๐ Day 3: Morning: Explore the coastal landscape ๐. Afternoon: Relax at the beach ๐๏ธ. Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner ๐
.
Current Trends
๐ฆ Culinary trends: Fresh seafood experiences are becoming a central part of Essaouira's food scene, with restaurants offering daily catches. ๐จ Cultural events: Arts and music festivals, particularly the Gnaoua World Music Festival, continue to draw global audiences. ๐ฑ Tech innovations: Digital platforms are being used to promote local events, helping to spread the word about Essaouiraโs cultural offerings. ๐ Eco-tourism: With its coastal location, Essaouira is promoting eco-tourism through sustainable travel experiences, such as nature tours and wildlife watching. ๐๏ธ Beach culture: The city's beaches are attracting tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure, with water sports and beachside dining growing in popularity.
Local Events Guide
๐ถ Gnaoua and World Music Festival (June): A lively festival celebrating Gnaoua music alongside international artists. ๐จ Essaouira Festival of Arts (October): Featuring performances by local artists and cultural exhibitions. ๐ Essaouira Christmas Market (December): A festive market with local crafts, music, and food. ๐
Essaouira Wind Festival (March): A unique event celebrating the townโs rich history of windsurfing and kitesurfing. ๐ง Essaouira Yoga Festival (November): A gathering for yoga enthusiasts with classes and workshops.
Local Insider Tips
๐๏ธ Medina: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with its narrow streets and vibrant shops. ๐ฆ Fresh Seafood: Enjoy the catch of the day from the local fish market. ๐ผ๏ธ Art Galleries: Browse through the many art galleries showcasing local and international artists. ๐๏ธ Beaches: Relax on the quiet beaches or try windsurfing. ๐ฐ Moulay Hassan Square: Experience lively events, from street performances to markets, in this iconic square.
Sustainable Travel
๐๏ธ Sustainable initiatives: Focus on preserving local culture and environment, with a focus on eco-tourism. ๐๏ธ Community support: Promoting sustainable practices through local artisans and small businesses. ๐ฑ Eco-friendly practices: Emphasis on waste reduction, water conservation, and eco-friendly accommodations. ๐ Sustainable tourism: Promoting responsible travel practices to preserve the environment. ๐ Green spaces: Expanding public parks and beaches to increase access to nature while minimizing human impact.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
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Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart โperfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
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Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.
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Bulgarian Lev (BGN) ะปะฒ
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Vibe:
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Turkish Lira (TRY) โบ
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Vibe:
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UAE Dirham (AED) ุฏ.ุฅโ
Dubai Hidden Gems
Vibe:
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Euro (EUR) โฌ
Hidden Hamburg Wonders
Vibe:
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US Dollar (USD) $
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Vibe:
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