Your EssaouIRA travel guide
Discover Morocco’s coastal gem
THINGS TO DO IN ESSAOUIRA
Wondering what to do in Essaouira? Whether you’re seeking adventure, or need to relax and unwind, here we provide a detailed guide to all the things to do in Essaouira, so that you can get the most out of your visit. From surfing to sandboarding to souks, we’ve got you covered.
2 DAY ITINERARY
Two days are a typical length of time in Essaouira for those travelling around Morocco for their holiday. Here we provide a comprehensive itinerary for your two days in Essaouira, and provide inspiration for any extra days you may have up your sleeve.
BEST RESTAURANTS
Whether you’re in search of fresh seafood, a traditional tagine, woodfire pizza, an extensive vegan menu, or even a taste of Asia, with the array of restaurants in Essaouira (including those with rooftop views) you are spoilt for choice, perhaps more so than elsewhere in Morocco.
RECOMMENDED HOTELS
For those seeking a sprinkling of luxury and convenience for their visit, here we feature the best hotels in Essaouira. A hotel provides a calm and relaxing oasis away from the hustle and bustle, combined with the option of meals cooked for you onsite. This is a holiday after all!
TOP TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
Any worries about visiting Essaouira for a first time can be dissipated with some local knowledge before your arrival. Here we share all the essential travel information you need for visiting Essaouira; from money and tipping, to language and customs, we’ve got you covered.
Essaouira walking tour
Essaouira is a relatively compact town and both the traffic-free medina and long stretch of beach beckon for a morning or afternoon stroll. Here we have put together a lovely self-guided walking tour for you to follow at your own pace. We take you to the main sites, but also off the beaten track along quieter alleyways.
VISITING WITH KIDS
The chilled out coastal town of Essaouira is perfect for kids with it’s traffic-free Medina, orange juice and crepe stands, and long stretch of sandy beach, complete with a playground and trampolines. And let’s not forget the super fun activities of camel riding, quad biking, and surfing to experience! Plus, Essaouira must be the most pram friendly town in all of Morocco.
DAY TRIPS FROM ESSAOUIRA
Essaouira can be a perfect base for Moroccan adventures further afield. From a 10min to 3hr drive, here we share the best day trips from Essaouira, including Safi, Sidi Kaouki, Taghazout, and even Marrakech.
Explore Essaouira is a practical online travel guide to the port town of Essaouira on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Here you’ll find everything you need to plan a visit; from what to see and do, to where to stay and eat.
Located around three hours west of Marrakech, Essaouira is a city that draws visitors in for a short stay and often keeps them far longer than planned; a place known for its relaxed pace, historic medina, and coastal setting.
This guide covers the best things to do in Essaouira, accommodation for all budgets, recommended restaurants, and essential planning information to help you make the most of your time in the city. You’ll also find a self-guided, free Essaouira walking tour to explore the medina at your own pace.
If you’re still deciding whether Essaouira is worth visiting, start with our reasons to visit Essaouira, or read our practical guide answering a common question: Is Essaouira safe?
Explore Essaouira ebook
Updated for 2026, the Explore Essaouira ebook is the only travel guide you need for exploring Essaouira. This is jam-packed with inspiration on what to do, where to eat, where to stay, and also includes a step-by-step self-guided walking tour (with photos).
This is a PDF download for use offline and on the go (and ad-free!). Save it to read on the plane to Morocco, download to your phone to follow the self-guided walking tour around the medina, or print it off at home before you leave on your adventures and highlight all the bits you want to remember for your visit.
Hi, I’m Jenny Lynn, a British-born travel writer and full-time digital publisher, and I run a series of online travel guides – Explore Essaouira being one of them.
I’ve travelled extensively around the world, but Essaouira remains one of my favourite places on the planet. I’ve visited countless times, sometimes for long weekends, sometimes for months at a stretch, and I keep coming back for its windswept Atlantic beaches, vibrant medina, welcoming people, and yes… tagines that are life.
Through Explore Essaouira, I share the sights, sounds, flavours, and hidden corners that make this Moroccan port town truly unforgettable.