Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD) د.م
Essaouira is a tranquil and artistic destination, with its UNESCO-listed Medina, vibrant street life, and coastal charm. Known for its vibrant arts scene and excellent seafood, it offers visitors a unique and relaxing experience by the sea.
Places to See
Essaouira Beach Road
4.8
Free
24/7
A perfect spot for relaxation and photography
7 Rue Mohammed el Qory
4.8
Free
10 AM - 7 PM
Showcasing contemporary Moroccan art
16 Rue de la Skala
4.8
Free
10 AM - 7 PM
A vibrant art scene in Essaouira
Avenue Mohammed V
4.7
$$
9 AM - 5 PM
Experience the beauty of Essaouira on horseback
Route de Marrakech
4.7
$$
9 AM - 6 PM
Perfect for outdoor activities
Rue du Parc
4.6
Free
7 AM - 8 PM
Perfect for a peaceful retreat
Avenue de l'Indépendance
4.5
Free
8 AM - 6 PM
Offers insight into Essaouira's history
Rue Moulay Hassan
4.5
Free
24/7
A beautiful park for relaxation
Avenue de la République
4.5
Free
9 AM - 6 PM
A significant landmark in Essaouira
A glimpse into local life
Must Visit:
Gnawa music, traditional craftsmanship
Essaouira is one of the best spots in the world for windsurfing and kitesurfing, attracting enthusiasts annually.
Places to Eat
17 Avenue Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah
4.6
$$
12 PM - 11 PM
A must-visit for seafood lovers
18 Rue de la Skala
4.6
$$
12 PM - 11 PM
A great spot for traditional dishes
34 Rue du Mehdi
4.6
$$
12 PM - 11 PM
A delightful culinary experience
4 Rue du Souk
4.5
$$
8 AM - 10 PM
A local favorite for sweet treats
Must Try:
Seafood, Fresh Produce
Places to Drink
7 Rue de la Skala
4.6
$$
11 AM - 12 AM
A great spot for sunset cocktails
Plage Essaouira
4.6
$$
8 AM - 10 PM
A great place to unwind
Music / Dance:
Gnawa Music
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
Fishing, crafts
Essaouira
"In Essaouira, the wind carries creativity, culture, and coastal beauty to every corner."
Places to Shop
Rue de la Skala
4.7
$$
9 AM - 7 PM
An immersive shopping experience
12 Rue de la Skala
4.7
$$
10 AM - 7 PM
A treasure trove of local crafts
Rue des Artisans
4.6
$$
10 AM - 6 PM
Empowering women artisans
Luxury
For More Tips Read Further
Windy
artistic culture, windswept beaches, and historical port city vibes.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Essaouira is a coastal city on Morocco's Atlantic coast, known for its laid-back atmosphere, historical Medina, and beautiful beaches. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Essaouira offers visitors a mix of ancient architecture, fresh seafood, and a unique artistic vibe. The city's narrow streets are lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, creating a welcoming and creative environment for travelers. Essaouira is famous for its windy conditions, which make it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Watch Out
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Essaouira
Transportation
Buses, taxis, Essaouira-Mogador Airport
City Overview
Essaouira, a coastal city in Morocco, is known for its medina, fresh seafood, and vibrant arts scene. Its laid-back atmosphere and stunning beaches make it a popular destination.
3 Day City Guide
- Day 1: Morning: Visit the Essaouira Citadel. Afternoon: Explore the medina. Evening: Dinner at a seafood restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Take a camel ride on the beach. Afternoon: Visit local galleries and studios. Evening: Attend a music festival if available. - Day 3: Morning: Explore the coastal landscape. Afternoon: Relax at the beach. Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner.
Current Trends
- Culinary trends: Rise in fresh seafood experiences. - Cultural events: Growing focus on arts and music festivals. - Tech innovations: Use of digital platforms for promoting local events.
Local Events Guide
- Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival (June): Celebrating music and culture. - Essaouira Festival of Arts (October): Showcasing local artists and performers. - Christmas Market (December): Featuring local crafts and holiday treats.
Local Insider Tips
- Explore the historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. - Enjoy fresh seafood at the local markets. - Visit local art galleries and shops.
Sustainable Travel
- Sustainable initiatives: Focus on preserving local culture and environment. - Community engagement: Support for local artisans and sustainable practices. - Eco-friendly practices: Emphasis on waste reduction and recycling.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
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Unlock the Hidden Side:
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.
More Cities to Visit:
Southern Charm
Get To:
Yes, bus stop nearby
Ideal for an evening stroll and sunset watching
A well-preserved historic fortress.
April - October
91
$$
11 AM - 6 PM
A comic book store that feels like a museum
April - October
90
Free
24/7
A unique and vibrant art installation