ESSAOUIRA
Essaouira, the “Wind City of Africa,” is a fortified seaside town renowned for its UNESCO-listed 18th-century medina, cobalt-blue fishing boats, and pervasive artistic soul. It offers a relaxed, breezy contrast to Morocco’s imperial cities.
With a vibrant culture shaped by Portuguese, Jewish, and Berber history, it is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and musicians. The city is famous for its thuya wood craftsmanship and Gnaoua music heritage.
Most Popular Attractions
Historic Medina & Fortifications:
Medina of Essaouira: A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its grid-like plan, whitewashed walls, and distinctive blue-shuttered windows.
Skala de la Ville: The magnificent seaside ramparts, offering stunning ocean views and lined with old brass cannons. (A notable filming location for Game of Thrones).
Skala du Port: The honey-colored bastion that looms over the harbor, providing the iconic view of the blue fishing boats.
Essaouira Fishing Port: A bustling, photogenic hub where local fishermen unload their daily catch from hundreds of blue boats.
Bab Marsa: The main monumental gate to the port, an impressive example of 18th-century architecture.
Place Moulay Hassan: The large, vibrant square connecting the medina and the port, ideal for enjoying a coffee or crepe.
Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah Museum: A museum housed in a former riad, showcasing regional artifacts, including woodwork, jewelry, and Gnaoua culture.
Souk Joutiya: The bustling local flea and produce market, perfect for experiencing daily life and fresh food.
Bayt Dakira (House of Memory): A beautifully restored former synagogue and cultural center dedicated to the city’s rich Jewish heritage.
Haim Pinto Synagogue: A historic synagogue that provides a glimpse into the once-vibrant Jewish quarter (Mellah).
Mellah (Jewish Quarter): The atmospheric, historic quarter with its distinctive architecture, telling the story of the city’s multicultural past.
Dar Souiri (Centre Socioculturel): A cultural center that hosts art exhibitions and Gnaoua music events.
Coast, Sports & Surrounding Areas:
Essaouira Beach (Plage d’Essaouira): The long, wide sandy beach famous for its strong Atlantic winds, making it a world-class spot for water sports.
Île de Mogador (Purpuraires Islands): A protected nature reserve opposite the city, home to Eleonora’s falcons (access is restricted but views are iconic).
Plage Tagharte: The southern end of the main beach, which serves as the hub for camel and horse riding excursions.
Kitesurfing & Windsurfing Schools: Numerous centers along the beach offering lessons for all skill levels in the city’s famous breezy conditions.
Diabat Village: A nearby former hippie haven (associated with Jimi Hendrix), known for its equestrian centers and quad biking trails.
Dar Sultan Palace (Ruins): The atmospheric, crumbling remains of an 18th-century royal fortress located in the sand dunes near Diabat.
Sidi Kaouki Beach: A more relaxed, bohemian surf beach 25km south of Essaouira, popular for advanced surfing and tranquil relaxation.
Moulay Bouzerktoun Beach: A small fishing village 20km north, internationally famous for its exceptional windsurfing conditions.
Domaine du Val d’Argan: A winery located nearby that produces Moroccan wine, offering tours and tastings.
Argan Oil Cooperative: Numerous local cooperatives in the surrounding Argan forest where you can see the traditional production of Argan oil by Berber women.
Had Draa Souq: A large, authentic weekly rural market (Sunday) located 30km inland, for a true taste of local commerce.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Skala du Port and Skala de la Ville: Walk along the historic 18th-century sea walls and ramparts, offering stunning views of the Atlantic, the harbor, and the iconic blue fishing boats.
Learn to Kitesurf or Windsurf: Essaouira is known as the “Windy City of Africa” and is one of the world’s premier spots for wind-based water sports. Many schools offer beginner lessons on Essaouira Bay.
Wander the UNESCO World Heritage Medina: Get lost in the narrow, whitewashed alleyways, which are notably calmer and less confusing than the medinas of Marrakesh or Fes.
Enjoy a Fresh Seafood Grill by the Harbor: Head to the bustling fishing port and choose your catch of the day (often sardines, sole, or calamari), then have it grilled on the spot at one of the rustic stalls.
Visit a Local Argan Oil Cooperative: Take a trip to the surrounding countryside (or find a cooperative in the medina) to see how Argan oil is produced by hand, often by local women’s cooperatives, and try the edible variety.
Take a Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic dishes like Tagine, Couscous, and Pastilla using fresh local spices and ingredients.
Ride a Camel or Horse on the Beach: Join a guided trek along the vast, sandy expanse of Essaouira beach, often extending to nearby dunes or forests like Diabat.
Discover Jimi Hendrix’s Diabat: Visit the small, bohemian village of Diabat, rumored to have been visited by the legendary musician, which features ruins and a sense of timeless tranquility.
Browse the Art Galleries and Wood Workshops: Essaouira is a hub for artists and artisans. Look for galleries displaying local contemporary art and workshops dedicated to Thuya wood carving.
Experience a Gnawa Music Performance: Seek out a live performance of Gnawa music, a spiritual and rhythmic style unique to Morocco, which Essaouira celebrates with a major annual festival.
Take a Day Trip to Iles Purpuraires (Purple Islands): Visit these protected bird sanctuaries and historic ruins just offshore (check local rules for access, which can be restricted to protect wildlife).
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Paramount: The entire medina is pedestrian-only. You will explore all the main sights—the ramparts, the port, the souks (markets), and the galleries—comfortably on foot.
Petit Taxis: For getting to the beach, the bus station, or the nearby areas outside the medina (like Diabat), use the blue petit taxis. They are inexpensive; confirm the fare or ensure the meter is running, especially at night.
Grand Taxis: These larger, shared taxis are used for inter-city travel (e.g., to Marrakesh or Agadir) and are an affordable way to travel longer distances. They depart when full from a designated station outside the medina.
Local Buses: The local bus station (Gare Routière) is the central hub for bus services to major Moroccan cities. Opt for well-known companies like CTM or Supratours for reliable and comfortable travel.
Luggage Carts (Chariots): Since cars cannot enter the medina, you will need a small, motorized cart to transport your luggage from the medina entrance (Bab Sbaâ or Bab Marrakech) to your riad or hotel. Negotiate a small fee beforehand.
Embrace the Wind: The constant, strong winds (called alizee) are a defining feature of Essaouira, making it ideal for watersports but potentially chilly, even in summer. Always carry a light jacket or scarf.
Fishing Port Etiquette: The harbor is a place of industry. While you are welcome to watch the daily catch and have fish grilled, be respectful of the fishermen working and always ask permission before taking a close-up photo.
Food Safety at the Port: While the grilled fish is a must-try experience, ensure the fish is cooked thoroughly and ask for a local recommendation on which stall to use to ensure freshness.
Bargaining in the Souks: Unlike the high-pressure environment of Marrakesh, the souk vendors in Essaouira are generally more relaxed. Bargaining is expected, but keep it friendly and fair.
Alcohol Availability: Essaouira is relatively liberal, and alcohol is available in many hotels and select licensed restaurants/bars outside the medina, as well as a few places within the walls.
Gnawa Music: If you visit during the last week of June, you can experience the massive Gnaoua and World Music Festival. Outside of the festival, you can find smaller, intimate performances in local cafes and squares.
Hidden Gems:
- The Medina’s Quiet Corners: The area around Rue Touahen and the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) often feels frozen in time and is remarkably tranquil compared to the main thoroughfares.
- Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum: Located in the medina, this small museum showcases local history, Thuya wood art, Gnawa instruments, and traditional textiles.
- The Artisanal Complex: Located near the Bab Doukala gate, this is a fixed-price complex where you can buy Thuya wood and other crafts, which can be a good place to gauge prices before entering the souks.
- Café Mogador: A historic, non-touristy café outside the medina walls, known for its excellent mint tea and local atmosphere.
Language: Moroccan Arabic (Darija) is the main language, but French is widely spoken due to historical ties. English is common in tourist establishments. Learning a few phrases like Salam Alaykum (hello) and Shukran (thank you) is appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Coin Typique [~$5-$10] – A truly non-touristy, hole-in-the-wall spot known for incredibly tasty and traditional Moroccan food, often a favorite among locals for its lamb and prune tagine.
Chez Fatima [~$5-$10] – A highly-recommended, authentic “hole in the wall” near the grain market, serving traditional Moroccan dishes with a homemade feel.
Snack Chamali [~$5-$10] – An incredibly cheap and authentic eatery in the El Borj neighborhood, famous for its tagines and a true local experience (expect plastic chairs and tables).
Chez Omar [~$5-$10] – A no-frills, budget-friendly spot in the medina serving classic Moroccan fare like couscous, tagines, and pastillas, often cited as one of the best for a quick, quality meal.
Restaurant Zaytouna [~$8-$15] – Located in a small square in the medina, this traditional restaurant is great for its generous, fixed-price three-course set menus, including vegetarian options.
Restaurant La Rose du Sud [~$8-$15] – Situated next to Zaytouna, this similar spot offers various fixed-price menus featuring traditional Moroccan dishes and abundant fresh fish.
Restaurant Baghdad [~$8-$15] – A popular, traditional restaurant in the medina offering authentic Moroccan cuisine, and also known for hosting engaging cooking classes.
Restaurant Sayef [~$8-$15] – Located in the heart of the medina, this restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and fresh seafood specialties.
Chaabi Chic [~$10-$20] – Found in the vibrant medina, this restaurant offers authentic Moroccan cuisine, with flavorful tagines and fresh seafood in a cozy atmosphere.
Chez Rachid [~$10-$20] – For a rustic and authentic Moroccan experience, head up the steep steps to the top level for a traditional meal, often including pastilla and couscous.
Restaurant Adwak [~$10-$20] – Tucked down a quiet side street in the medina, this cozy eatery is a top choice for travellers looking to sample the best traditional Moroccan food, including excellent veggie tagine.
Cafe Restaurant Berber [~$10-$20] – A charming spot in the medina dedicated to the essence of Moroccan cuisine, offering traditional dishes that tell a story of local flavors.
Restaurant Le Sirocco [~$15-$25] – A well-established Franco-Moroccan restaurant, reliable for delicious food, including classic Moroccan fare and excellent fish dishes, with live music on some nights.
Les Alizés Mogador [~$15-$25] – Discover the rich flavors of Morocco at this culinary gem, known for its authentic dishes and warm hospitality in the medina.
Restaurant Safran Citron [~$15-$25] – Located in the medina, this spot offers authentic Moroccan flavors in every dish, with a focus on traditional cuisine.
Riad Al Madina Essaouira [~$15-$25] – A traditional restaurant located inside a beautiful riad, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on authentic Moroccan dishes.
Restaurant du Coeur [~$15-$25] – A cozy setting in the medina where authentic Moroccan cuisine meets culture in a heartwarming atmosphere.
The Three Little Birds [~$15-$25] – A spot in the medina offering authentic Moroccan flavors, where every meal is prepared with a touch of local tradition.
Restaurant Laayoune [~$15-$25] – A traditional Moroccan restaurant in the medina where classic cuisine and captivating atmosphere combine.
Restaurant des Rêves [~$15-$25] – Known for its authentic Moroccan and fresh seafood cuisine in the charming atmosphere of the medina.
The Fish Market Stalls (Port) [~$8-$20] – The ultimate local experience: buy your fresh fish and seafood (sardines, calamari, prawns) directly from the fishermen at the port, and have it grilled immediately over hot coals by the nearby stalls, served with bread and salad.
Chez Sam [~$15-$30] – Located towards the end of the seaport, this restaurant offers excellent, reasonably priced seafood with stunning views of the sea from its upstairs dining area.
Chez Zak [~$20-$35] – Highly praised for its incredibly fresh crayfish, which the owner’s family delivers daily. It’s grilled with herbs and served with salad and potatoes.
Seafood Corner [~$15-$30] – Located in the lively medina, this restaurant is a must-visit for its delicious Moroccan seafood and fresh ingredients.
Restaurant Le Patio [~$15-$30] – A welcoming spot in the medina for couscous and fresh fish lovers, focusing on authentic Moroccan cuisine.
Fanatic [~$15-$30] – Located outside the medina, this spot has a lovely terrace with sea views and an extensive menu focused on fresh fish and seafood.
The Loft [~$25-$45] – Offers a modern dining experience, with a simple but high-quality menu focusing on seafood like grilled John Dory and monkfish fillet, also having options for non-fish eaters.
Restaurant Il Mare [~$30-$50] – Offers a unique dining experience with a stunning view of the fortified city and the sunset, known for its seafood dishes.
La Table by Madada [~$40-$60] – Located in a former 18th-century carob warehouse, this upscale spot offers a modern twist on local cuisine, featuring locally caught seafood like spider crab gratin and fresh oysters, in an intimate atmosphere.
Resto Vague Bleue [~$20-$40] – A charming family-owned restaurant with a cozy ambiance and a delightful view, offering a menu that highlights the region’s seafood.
O’BLEU MOGADOR [~$25-$45] – Inspired by Southern cuisine, this spot offers fusion cuisine with a focus on fresh products from the market, the fishing, and the terroir, featuring small tagines and seafood casseroles.
Triskala [~$10-$20] – A trendy, eco-friendly restaurant in the medina with a unique twist on traditional Moroccan cuisine, offering dishes like falafel with kemia, veggie tapas, and inventive tagines using local, fresh ingredients.
Mandala Society [~$10-$20] – A popular “Bali hipster café meets Morocco” spot in the medina, great for a healthy, contemporary breakfast, brunch, or vegetarian/vegan options.
Umia Restaurant [~$25-$40] – A chic and intimate dining spot along the Skala in Essaouira, offering a daily changing menu that features a blend of Mediterranean and international gastronomy with a French and Asian influence.
Caravane Café [~$20-$35] – A vibrant and artistic restaurant in a restored Riad, offering a mix of international and Moroccan-inspired cuisine in an atmospheric setting with an open courtyard and private rooms.
Dar Baba Restaurant & More [~$30-$50] – A trendy, high-end spot with an artsy, chic decor and a mix of international cuisine with Moroccan twists, known for its incredible food presentation and cocktails.
L’heure Bleue Palais [~$40-$70] – The hotel’s fine dining restaurant, known for its refined Moroccan and French cuisine in an elegant setting, often considered a top-tier dining experience.
La Fromagerie [~$30-$50] – Located 10km outside Essaouira, this is a unique family-run cheese farm and restaurant where diners choose one of three main dishes that come with a set of three homestyle entrees, focusing on farm-fresh ingredients.
Bistro Essaouira [~$15-$25] – A stylish little restaurant in the Mellah (Jewish quarter) with a cute interior and a relaxed terrace, offering a mix of Moroccan and international bistro fare.
Le Corail Vegan Food [~$10-$20] – A charming and highly-regarded spot in the medina offering a delightful selection of vegan dishes, blending local flavors with innovative plant-based cuisine.
Picknick Café [~$10-$20] – Run by women, this café offers modern, healthy dishes full of fresh vegetables and is held in a traditional Moroccan design.
Silvestro [~$15-$30] – An authentic Italian restaurant run by an Italian chef, known for delicious homemade pasta, osso bucco, and wood-fired pizzas, perfect for a break from Moroccan cuisine.
Taverna Bolognese Da Maurizio [~$15-$30] – A popular Italian spot in the heart of the medina, great for authentic Italian cuisine, including delicious pizzas and pasta, often offering wine.
Restaurant Gusto Italia [~$15-$25] – Another great spot in the medina to savor authentic Italian cuisine, with dishes crafted with love and tradition.
Asian Red Food [~$10-$20] – Offers an authentic taste of Asia in North Africa, serving a range of Thai dishes for dine-in or
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Taros: Undoubtedly one of the most popular spots, this large restaurant and bar is located on Place Moulay Hassan, right above the medina ramparts. It boasts a terrific rooftop terrace offering stunning sunset views over the port and the sea, serving cocktails and beers with live music or a DJ set late into the night.
Salut Maroc Riad & Bar: Located within the colorful old Medina, this beautiful riad features a vibrant, multi-level rooftop terrace. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy a local Casablanca beer or a cocktail while taking in picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic ramparts.
Dar Baba & More: Tucked away on Rue de Marrakech in the heart of the Medina, this cozy spot is a great find away from the main crowds. It is known for its welcoming ambiance and a selection of wines and cocktails.
Le Chrysalis: Situated near the Bab Sbaa entrance to the old Medina, this venue is noted as a cocktail bar, offering a place to relax and enjoy a mixed drink close to the city’s historic walls.
Restaurant D’Jazy: Found in the city, this lively spot offers a great setting for enjoying a meal and a cocktail. It’s known for its live music, making it a perfect venue for a late afternoon drink or dancing into the night.
Il Mare Restaurant: Located within the medina walls, this spot is perfect for sundowners, live music (often traditional Gnaoua), and a seafood dinner. For the best energy, aim for a table on the top floor near the music.
La Coupole Essaouira Beach: Situated right on Essaouira Beach, this vibrant tapas bar serves a variety of fresh seafood and local flavors, offering great ocean views and a beachfront ambiance for enjoying cocktails.
Ocean Vagabond: A premier dining destination by the sea on Essaouira Beach, this place is known for its surf culture and a fusion of Mediterranean cuisine, providing a lovely, calm setting for drinks with a view.
Recontre Rooftop Terrace: Located within the Medina, this spot offers live Gnaoua music nightly, often regarded as the music at its finest. The rooftop terrace overlooks the ramparts, and it’s recommended as a great place for drinks.
The Roof Top Bar: Located approximately halfway along Essaouira Beach, this trendy, busy spot is ideal for a sundowner after a day on the sand. It features beautiful views, a DJ, and sometimes live Gnaoua music later in the evening.
Caravane Café: A fantastic hideaway in the city, away from the immediate tourist crowds, offering a welcoming atmosphere where you can find wine and cocktails alongside delicious food.
Le Love by Caravane: Found in Essaouira’s vibrant Medina, this venue offers a fusion of culinary delight and artistic expression, providing a unique backdrop for a refreshing cocktail.
Le Relais: A vibrant restaurant in Essaouira known for its fusion of French cuisine and Moroccan charm, providing live music and delightful tapas to accompany your drinks.
Le BAR Celone: Located in Essaouira, this bar offers a mix of local flavors and international cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Alhafra: A must-visit bar in the heart of Essaouira’s historic Medina, known for its exceptional drinks and a warm welcome from its staff.
LE CLUB BY TAROS: This is the dedicated club extension of the famous Taros venue on Place Moulay Hassan. It offers a proper cocktail bar and a livelier, later-night environment separate from the main rooftop bar, making it a key destination for clubbing in the city center.
Ozo Night Club: Considered a beacon of nightlife in Essaouira, this club offers a unique blend of contemporary dance music with a touch of traditional Moroccan flair. Located outside the main Medina area (likely in the newer Complexe Bin Al Aswar), it features a spacious dance floor, pulsating rhythms, and late-night hours.
So Lounge (Sofitel Essaouira): Located in Diabat, just outside the main city, this is a sophisticated cocktail bar and dance club at the luxury Sofitel resort. It features a main bar, stage, and dance area with live music played on most nights, offering a high-end clubbing experience.
Loubou’s Lounge: Located in the Complexe Bin Al Aswar area, this spot is part of the younger, more energetic scene. It is described as loud and smoky, with a DJ pumping out dance music, making it a classic option for late-night clubbing.
El Mechouar – Pub Corner: Situated on Avenue Oqba Ibn Nafia, this venue offers a pub-like atmosphere which transitions into a lively evening spot with drinks and music, catering to those looking for a more traditional bar/club feel.
Le Mamouche: Located on Avenue Moukaouama, this is another of the city’s established bar/café options that extends its hours and atmosphere into the late-night, acting as a general nightlife hub.
Aigue Marine: Found on Boulevard Mohammed-V, this establishment is a classic bar and café that provides a late-night atmosphere for drinks and socialising in the newer part of Essaouira.
Le 7: Also located on Boulevard Mohammed-V, this bar is known for contributing to the local nightlife scene, offering drinks and a social atmosphere late into the evening.
Le Patio: Situated on Rue Moulay Rachid, this venue is a bar and café that provides a pleasant spot for evening drinks and often a relaxed, low-key club environment.
Beach and Friends: Located on the Corniche Sud – Plage Tagharte (south beach), this bar/café often has a DJ and is a lively beachside spot, especially during the day, which extends its party atmosphere into the evening.
Loft Club Essaouira: While information can be sparse, this venue is cited as a club/disco, suggesting it offers a more focused dance and party experience within the Essaouira area.