When most people think of Morocco, their mind likely wanders to one of the imperial capitals, such as Rabat or Casablanca, or even the iconic blue city of Chefchaouen. Essaouira is often overlooked on many travel itineraries, a travesty that’ll certainly work out in your favor thanks to fewer tourists crowding this seaside gem.
Combining the idyllic coastline of Tangier with the endless markets of Marrakech, this Atlantic haven is the perfect place to get sun-kissed, wind-swept and well-fed from dawn to dusk. For the best things to do in Essaouira, we’ll be delving deep into the most famous monuments, the highest-rated restaurants, the coziest accommodations and more.
Let’s dive in!
*This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The History
When to Visit
What to See & Do
1. Stroll around Rempart Mogador & Skala de la Kasbah
2. Find the Catch of the Day at Essaouira Port
3. People-watch at Moulay Hassan Square
4. Make a Splash at Essaouira Beach & Tagharte Beach
5. Wander through the Old Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
6. Pass through All the Medina’s Gateways
7. Enjoy a Spa Day
8. Soak up the Artistic Vibes at Gallery Kasbah
9. Hit up All THE Markets
10. Try the Local Cuisine
Where to Eat
Best Bang for Your Buck
Trendy Restaurants Worth the Price of Admission
Fine Dining That Proves You Get What You Pay For
Best Places to Stay
Final Thoughts
THE HISTORY
Although not officially renamed Essaouira in the 1960s, the city’s roots stretch back much further to prehistoric times when it was initially inhabited by nomadic tribes. However, the first maritime trading post wouldn’t be established by the Phoenicians until the 5th century BC, under the name Arambys.
Still, the hub would only gain more affluence once murex (a highly-valuable purple dye made from the shells of seasnails indigenous to the nearby islands) was discovered, culminating in the construction of a processing factory by the 1st century AD. Yet with fame came more scrutiny as the Phoenicians, once coveted for their luxurious purple garbs, were defeated by the Romans in the 2nd century. Inevitably, the Roman Empire would also fall by the 5th century, leading to the region becoming dominated by a series of Berber and Arabic dynasties who bequeathed it the name Mogador, likely from the Phoenician term for ‘small fortress’ (Migdol).
Nevertheless, like all great empires, they would begin to lose hold of their territories in Africa after the Portuguese invaded in the 15th century, bolstered by incursions with Ottoman troops from the east. Claiming six cities over the span of a century (1415 - 1515), it would take another two for Moroccan coalitions to push out the Portuguese forces entirely (1541 - 1769). Yet Mogador never ceded, with the only Portuguese stronghold, Castelo Real de Mogador (built in 1506), being overtaken by local rebels almost immediately (in 1510). Not even the English, the Dutch, the Spanish or French could conquer the port and it soon became a safe haven for pirates as well as a major exporter of sugar and molasses.
As the city’s importance grew, so did its recognition by the King of Morocco, and in the 1760s, Mohammed III ordered a complete renovation, starting with the destruction of Castelo Real de Mogador to make way for a new fortress. Envisioning a modernized city in line with European sensibilities for more prosperous trade, the king collaborated with French architect Théodore Cornut to design the kasbah while Ahmed el Inglizi (a prominent Englishman turned Moroccan who also remodeled Rabat’s medina) oversaw the harbor fortifications. Subsequently, Essaouira would become Morocco’s main port until the end of the 19th century, allowing caravan goods obtained from as far as Timbuktu to be shipped globally.
As the story goes, however, the geopolitical landscape would shift once again by the 20th century as France invaded Morocco for over four decades (1912-1956), and thus, Essaouria was gifted its current moniker (translating to ‘beautifully designed’) in light of the nation’s regained independence. These days, the city is renowned for its hippie vibes, adventurous watersports, and succulent seafood, even appearing in popular media such as Game of Thrones, while its medina was declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2001.
WHEN TO VISIT
Due to its location along the Atlantic, Essaouira experiences its wettest weather during autumn and winter months (October to March) and high humidity year-round. Still, most days are usually clearer than not while spring and summers are typically mild and dry, with averages between 18-22ºC (61-72ºF) and plenty of sunshine.
For the warmest waters to participate in watersports, visit from July to September when trade winds won’t freeze you to the bone. Just make sure to pack sunscreen no matter what time of the year you visit as well as a windbreaker in cooler seasons (they don’t call it the Windy City of Africa for no reason!).
WHAT TO SEE & DO
1. Stroll around Rempart Mogador & Skala de la Kasbah
Essaouira’s fortified walls, known as the remparts, stretch along its Atlantic coastline, offering casual strollers stunning ocean views for perfect photo opportunities. Built in the 18th century and inspired by Portuguese and French military design, they once protected the trading port of Mogador from invading naval forces.
The Skala de la Kasbah (AKA Skala de la Ville) is a wide bastion with rows of cannons aimed toward the sea, making for the perfect place to watch waves crashing against the rocks and seabirds dive below. As you wander this historic promenade over the water, the dramatic coastal vistas, graffiti, art installations, and local fishermen are sure to remind you of Essaouira’s maritime heritage and artistic spirit. Look across them to spot Mogodar Island and the Iles de Purpuraies to your left and then follow the walls southeastward to stumble upon your next destination
PRO TIP: You can book a guided walking tour to learn more about Essaouira’s secrets and legends.
2. Find the Catch of the Day at Essaouira Port
Throughout its history Essaouira’s bustling fishing port has remained at the heart of daily life. Thus, most early mornings, you can expect to see traditional fishing boats decked in vibrant hues returning with their haul of freshly-caught seafood, consisting of everything from sardines to octopus. The lively scene as fishermen unload nets and locals peruse their goods is emblematic of Essaouira, especially since the adjacent fish market and grilled seafood stalls will invite you to pick out your meal and have it cooked for you right on the quay.
If you’re in search of an authentic lunch after exploring the medina, there’s no better option since you can also watch seagulls soar overhead as you dine, letting the quality of the food speak for itself as locals haggle over prices in the background, a practice rooted in centuries of tradition.
PRO TIP: Head to the fish markets before noon to get the freshest selection of fish from mullet to tuna.
3. People-watch at Moulay Hassan Square
Moulay Hassan Square is Essaouira’s central meeting point, where locals and tourists alike gather amid cafés, colourful stalls, and the rhythm of coastal life. Why not sit back and watch shopkeepers, sidewalk vendors, and visiting families milling about while enjoying a plate of muhammara and some mint tea while street performers and musicians add to the ambiance?
The square’s open layout encourages lingering conversations and offers great perspectives on both the medina and the active harbour nearby. Surrounded by whitewashed buildings trimmed in blue, Moulay Hassan perfectly captures the town’s laid-back charm and offers one of the best places in town to soak up the local atmosphere between adventures. Plus what better place is there to rest your weary feet for a spell?
PRO TIP: Snag a table on the rooftop at Taros for the best views of the area (stick to ordering only drinks, however).
4. Make a Splash at Essaouira & Tagharte Beach
Stretching for kilometres along the Atlantic, Essaouira Beach and its continuation into Tagharte Beach offer expansive coastlines ideal for long walks, sunbathing, and watersports. Unlike the rocky terrain surrounding the Skala and Mogodar Island, these shores are sandy so you can dig your toes right into the soft, golden powder. Early morning or sunset are magical times to stroll as you can observe local fishermen preparing nets, or even take a camel or horseback ride along the sand dunes.
For watersports enthusiasts, the trade winds (known as ‘Alizee’) make the crescent beach especially popular for windsurfing, kitesurfing or simply kite-flying – all great ways to get your blood pumping! You just have to bring yourself since equipment rental shops and surfing schools line nearly the entire waterfront. However, for a quieter beach vibe, continue walking toward Tagharte, where its spaciousness and calming sea breeze combine to create a serene backdrop for a relaxing escape with every rippling tide.
PRO TIP: Take your adventure to the next level by going on a quad bike tour over the beach’s dunes.
5. Wander through the Old Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
Essaouira’s Mellah, or old Jewish quarter, reflects a once-thriving Jewish community that played a key role in the city’s trade and culture. Welcomed by King Mohammed III during his reconstruction of Mogador in the 1760s, the area saw a large influx of migrants for over a century as they fled persecution from the Spanish Inquisition, to the point where nearly half of the city’s population practiced the faith by the end of the 19th century.
This long-lasting heritage is evident as you mosey down the Mellah’s lanes, with each new corner revealing remnants of synagogues and traditional homes, all which offer a poignant glimpse into Morocco’s multicultural history. The neighborhood’s nearby Jewish cemetery, often visited in pilgrimage by descendants, holds over 2400 tombs traced by quiet pathways, with the oldest dating back to 1775. Together with exhibits at local museums such as Bayt Dakira, the Mellah provides insight into Essaouira’s diverse past and the coexistence of religious communities in this Atlantic port city – human unity at its finest.
PRO TIP: Bayt Dakira is open six days a week from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM except for Saturdays.
6. Pass through All the Medina’s Gateways
At the center of Essaouira’s medina lies the kasbah but no good fortress can stand the test of time without formidable defenses, hence the high walls protecting the heart of a city that was frequently under siege from European forces and beyond. For the inhabitants to survive, these fortifications had to be punctuated by grand gateways known as ‘babs’ to regulate trade and movement into the medina, many of which are still standing today.
For example, Bab Marrakech with its distinctive tower is a highlight to visit as the main entrance between Essaouira to Marrakech, thus, connecting the sub-Saharan caravan trade to Atlantic trade routes. Bab Doukkala, leading to the northern territories, offers a dramatic entrance framed by centuries-old stone and ornate design, whereas Bab El Mechouar near the port used to be the main entrance to the kasbah. Get transported back in time as you pass through these gates, stepping from the Atlantic winds into labyrinthine souks and narrow streets filled with craft workshops, cafés and stories of the city’s past.
PRO TIP: The most iconic is Bab El Marsa (known locally as the “gate of tolerance”), which famously features symbols of Islam, Christianity and Judaism, providing a testament to Essaouira’s multicultural legacy.
7. Enjoy a Spa Day
After a long day of exploring Essaouira’s ramparts and copious market stalls, why not indulge in a traditional hammam experience or skilled massage to unwind? Hammams are a Moroccan staple so there are many local spas to choose from, with most specializing in deep-tissue treatments, argan-oil body rubs, and exfoliating scrubs – perfect for melting away any lingering travel fatigue.
Many combine spa luxury with Moroccan rituals such as soaking in warm steam, wearing natural clay masks, and relaxing with mint tea. Whether you choose a beachfront wellness centre or a riad tucked into ancient alleys, a professional massage introduces a soothing contrast to the Atlantic breeze and urban strolls that will likely fill your days in Essaouira. There are also options for any price point, so my top choices would be Spa Zen Essaouira and Azur Art & Spa (for the budget-conscious) and Les Massages Berbères and Spa Cocooning & Hammam (better for high-rollers). Can you say ‘Zen’?
PRO TIP: Unless you’re comfortable going commando in front of your attendant, you might want to bring along a swimsuit to wear.
8. Soak up the Artistic Vibes at Gallery Kasbah
Gallery Kasbah stands out as one of Essaouira’s premier art spaces, located in an elegant, restored riad amid the historic Kasbah. This vivacious gallery showcases a mix of Moroccan and international art pieces, from contemporary paintings to traditional handicrafts, reflecting the city’s thriving creative scene. Its designs lend visitors a quiet, cultural contrast to the bustling streets outside, with immersive displays that capture Essaouira’s artistic soul.
Whether you’re an art lover or simply curious, Gallery Kasbah provides a picturesque setting to discover local talent and pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir while supporting the area’s community. Most suppliers even offer international shipping, meaning your new artwork just might make it home before you do!
PRO TIP: Haggling over clearly listed prices is considered rude for single art pieces but there’s always more room for negotiation if buying multiple artworks.
9. Hit up All the Markets
Markets and shops abound everywhere in Essaouira, with the most prominent found near the port, Moulay Hassan Square or hugging the walls of the Skala. Still, there’s scarcely a corner you can turn down in the medina without coming across a market stall or more. No matter the weekday, expect the town to be bursting with life as hawkers sell everything from cosmetics and jewellery to street food and fine leather.
Take in the labyrinth of aromatic spices, plush textiles, and unique crafts as you get lost in the sensory-rich setting while traipsing down produce-packed streets. Traditional snacks, freshly-brewed teas and fresh produce only add to the joyful atmosphere, making it both a cultural outing and shopping adventure within Essaouira’s medina walls. Just be prepared to face more crowds during weekends since the chill vibe brings all the tourists to the boatyard.
PRO TIP: The best streets for markets include Rue Skala and Avenue Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah.
10. Try the Local Cuisine
Essaouira’s cuisine celebrates its coastal identity with an abundance of seafood and classic Moroccan dishes. In the medina and near the port, sardines, calamari and grilled fish are local staples, always caught the same day and often served simply with olive oil, lemon slices and freshly-baked bread.
Moreover, don’t miss traditional harira soup as a starter before savoring hearty tagines with seasonal vegetables and spices. Sweet mint tea normally accompanies meals, while rooftop cafés offer majestic scenery for dining with panoramic views. Pick up some m’semen pancakes from street vendors for a cheap, delicious snack or dessert to round out your latest meal. From casual stalls to refined restaurants, Essaouira’s gastronomic scene delights both adventurous eaters and lovers of authentic flavour.
PRO TIP: When trying seafood from street stalls, make sure the meat is properly cooked since the last thing you want to catch while on holiday is a stomach virus. Prefer homemade meals? Then take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes from scratch.
Speaking of food…
WHERE TO EAT
A trip to Morocco is nearly synonymous with eating good food and Essaouira is certainly no exception, boasting several dining venues from hippie cafes and intimate bistros to upmarket restaurants with lavish interiors. Regardless of how deep your pockets run, eateries on this list cater to all travelers, with each offering friendly service, high-quality ingredients and fantastic ambience to boot. If you’re a seafood lover like yours truly, prepare to be spoiled for choice. Bon appétit, mes ami(e)s !
Best Bang for Your Buck:
Fishburger Essaouira: Visit this burger joint to try a port-city spin on classic burgers featuring fresh fish patties with creative toppings. Settle into its casual vibe while ordering standout tuna options, seafood sandwiches, salads and hibiscus tea since there’s no wrong pick for a quick, satisfying meal after a day of wandering through markets. I’d strongly recommend you to order the fresh tuna fishburger with house sauce and crispy fries to appease your growing appetite.
Dar Dasha: Stylish yet affordable, this Moroccan restaurant blends traditional cuisine with modern presentation. Take heart in the warm service before eating said heart out whilst enjoying creative takes on classics such as goat cheese salad and prune tajine. Combined with its cozy décor with soft lighting, it’s one of the old city’s best-kept secrets. Don’t miss the lamb tagine with prunes, almonds and subtle cinnamon sweetness for a real taste of Morocco.
Restaurant Berber Essaouira 2006: A beloved local haunt thanks to its hearty Moroccan fare, friendly service, authentic flavours and reasonable prices, this is a reliable choice for travellers seeking traditional cuisine like rich tagines, couscous and seasonal vegetables. Sample the beef kefta tagine with tomato and eggs – it’s to die for!
Triskala: A bohemian bistro with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, they cater to foodies on the hunt for fresh, organic ingredients and bold Moroccan dishes. The relaxed atmosphere and healthy dishes make it a go-to for mindful eaters while exploring Essaouira’s medina. Try the vegetable tagine with quinoa and fragrant Moroccan aromas to add some spice to your day.
Trendy Restaurants Worth the Price of Admission:
The Hungry Nomad Rooftop Essaouira: This rooftop paradise is perched atop the Atlantic Hostel, offering panoramic medina views and fresh, homemade Moroccan classics like kefta tagine and salads. Thanks to its welcoming vibe and friendly service, it’s a favorite spot to unwind with lunch or dinner above the city buzz. Head to the rooftop around sunset and order the kefta meatball tagine to have a delicious dinner with a view – the perfect ending to any day!
MIMTI: This hot spot comes highly rated for its beautifully-presented Mediterranean cuisine and creative menu options. Savor the quality ingredients perfectly accompanied by thoughtful service, making it worth the splurge. Opt for the chef’s tasting menu which highlights refined local flavours with a lavish twist.
Butterfly Space – Moroccan & World Cuisine: If you love fusion dishes, look no further thab this popular restaurant which expertly marries Moroccan tradition with global influences. Revel in the fresh seafood, inventive salads and sophisticated plating while dining in a chic setting – no wonder it’s a top pick for foodies. Make sure to try the seafood ceviche with Moroccan citrus and herbs to treat your palate to a medley of flavors.
KSOU Restaurant Rooftop: This scenic haven is my top pick in Essaouira for its relaxed vibes and panoramic views alone since it also features a vibrant rooftop destination while serving impressive dishes with the friendliest service. It should be no surprise that it's also popular for its seafood dishes, eclectic tapas, delectable cocktails and live music come nightfall on weekends, so plan to pair your meal with sun setting over the Atlantic. Just don’t skip out on the seafood risotto before hitting the dancefloor.
Fine Dining That Proves You Get What You Pay For:
La Table by Madada: This opulent restaurant is renowned for its refined Moroccan and international dishes packed with authentic flavours and presented with stellar service. Its consistent quality and welcoming ambience are reflected in its popularity, making the venue ideal for dinner dates or special meals. The spider crab gratin is particularly rich and exquisitely tender. Yum!
Restaurant Sayef: At this elegant establishment, you’ll find Moroccan and Mediterranean menus perfectly blended with warm service and the freshest ingredients. The consistent quality of its dishes cannot be understated, nor can its inviting atmosphere, culminating in a memorable dining experience. Go for the grilled octopus with olive oil, garlic and seasonal vegetables – a combo that’s sure to make your mouth water.
Le Sirocco: A highly-acclaimed venue for its scrumptious, well-executed classics and impeccable service, it’s a must-try for an authentic culinary experience worth splurging a tad for. Delight in traditional dishes like tajines, couscous, and salads made with the freshest ingredients or order the chicken pastilla for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Either way, you’ll leave more than satisfied!
Honorable mentions: Chez Ruqayya, Restaurant la Tolérance, Khmissa Restaurant, Restaurant Safran Citron, Restaurant Laayoune, Retro Corner
BEST PLACES TO STAY
With a population of less than 80,000 residents, Essaouira’s far from Morocco’s biggest city but it is jam-packed with accommodation options to suit a range of budgets, with all the following lodgings coming top-rated. Backpackers can kick back in a hostel while families and couples would be better off staying in a riad for more privacy. Frequent solo travellers like me might prefer to book a room at a dar (guesthouse) since those tend to be more economic without lacking major amenities. Either way, you’re in for a good night’s sleep in cozy digs faster than you can say ‘bonne nuit’.
Budget-friendly Locales:
Hostel La Smala: A lively beachfront hostel with a social vibe and friendly staff, this establishment also sports a rooftop pool and a sun terrace with great sea views. Centrally located near the kasbah, it’s perfect for budget travellers and digital nomads, offering air-conditioning, private rooms or single-sex dormitories, a bar, a coffee shop and easy access to Essaouira’s medina.
Riad Azul: This highly-rated riad blends traditional Moroccan charm and modern comfort, providing guests with a sun terrace, stylish décor, and welcoming atmosphere with a 24-hour front desk. With its calm medina location, it’s a peaceful place to start exploring the city’s monuments and markets.
Riad 7 Pierres: Situated only 300 meters from the beach, this charming riad provides authentic Moroccan style close to the city’s top sights, making for an affordable homebase for first-time visitors. Book a room with a private terrace to upgrade your stay or dine in the on-site restaurant, all while in the heart of Essaouira’s medina.
Riad Etoile de Mogador: A classic riad with traditional décor and rooftop terrace views, this accommodation is located in a quiet area in the medina just a few hundred meters from the beach. Come for comfortable rooms with ensuite bathrooms but stay for the helpful staff and complimentary breakfast.
Mid-range Lodgings:
Dar Adul: A stylish guesthouse boasting warm hospitality and decorative patios with sea views. Located close to Rempart Mogador, it’s highly rated for its comfort with suites including private bathrooms, offering guests a tranquil yet central stay surrounded by Essaouira’s historic streets.
Riad Bab Essaouira: This elegant guesthouse is situated right in the heart of the medina, featuring spacious rooms with refined décor and private bathrooms. Enjoy their complimentary breakfast while sunbathing on the rooftop terrace as you drink in the panoramic views – an ideal haven for any traveler.
Riad Chakir Mogador: Nestled in the center of the medina, this well-known riad is close to the port and beach and popular for its inviting rooms and traditional ambiance. Amenities include comfy rooms with ensuite bathrooms, an on-site restaurant, and a 24-hour front desk – ideal for a cozy stay that won’t break the bank.
Dar Ness: A traditional riad built in the middle of the kasbah, it features a rooftop terrace with sea views as well as classic Moroccan décor. All suites come complete with inner courtyard views plus ensuite bathrooms for maximum comfort. With Moulay Hassan Square nearby and Essaouira Beach less than 300 meters away, it’s a perfect mid-range option that’s close to everything.
High-end Digs
Riad Dar Maya: This luxury guesthouse offers visitors the best of both worlds, comfort and proximity, while in the center of the medina. Take advantage of their on-site hot tub or steam bath or soak up some sun while enjoying your complimentary breakfast on their rooftop terrace. Book readers can also peruse their library and cozy up in their climate-controlled interior. For travelers seeking tranquility, opulence, and contemporary craftsmanship, it’s the perfect place to stay in the city.
Riad Dar Awil: This popular guesthouse not only provides comfortable rooms with lush decor, but also sports an outdoor fireplace and idyllic rooftop terrace with interrupted views of the cityscape and sea. Centrally located within walking distance to the beach, it’s praised for its warm hospitality, excellent concierge service and an international restaurant – your perfect home away from home.
Le Palazzo: This stylish boutique hotel is where to stay if you want to live in the lap of luxury. Nestled less than five minutes from the beach, it offers plush rooms with private bathrooms along with an on-site spa, restaurant, bar and coffee shop. Sample their tasty complimentary breakfast on their sun terrace before booking an excursion at their in-house tour desk. From cocktails to sunset views, this place has got everything you could ever want or need.
Riad Malaïka: Located a mere stone’s throw away from the beach, this lavish riad boasts beautifully styled rooms with private bathrooms and is often praised for its excellent service. If you’re seeking quality and authenticity close to Essaouira’s highlights, look no further than the on-site spa or rooftop terrace while in the middle of the medina.
Riad Villa Garance: This eco-friendly riad blends refinement with heritage, incorporating Arabic, Berber and Jewish influences into its marvelous décor. The cushy rooms feature ensuite bathrooms with organic toiletries and attentive room service, including complimentary breakfast. Book a night or two for its warm ambiance and inviting décor, only to find that you’ll never want to leave this gem in the heart of the medina.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Essaouira is truly a gem to behold, from its brightly-painted alleys to its scenic shoreline. For travelers needing some respite from Morocco’s more hectic cities, it’s the ideal escape to get in touch with nature as well. Surrounded by the Thuya Forest (AKA Argan Forest), the area is full of biodiversity from flora to fauna so you can go for a nature walk through landscapes laden with argan trees, rare juniper flowers and local wildlife. If you have the time, you can head even further south to the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains near Azrou (it’s best to book a guided tour to get a good lay of the land).
Closer to the coast, Essaouira also features salt marshes in the form of tide pools close to the ramparts which also double as an ideal spot for birdwatching as the area attracts seagulls, flamingos and falcons alike. If you prefer your nature to be a bit more tamed, you can also visit Golf Mogador to check out its courses or check yourself into a yoga retreat to get your mind and body right.