(updated 1/4/2022)

Essaouira is a fishing town located in the Western region of Morocco. Don’t overlook this charming port village during your time in Morocco, it is truly a gem!

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My Essaouira Essentials

How to get to Essaouira – MED Taxi

There are a few different transport options.

Essaouira does have an airport. Alternatively, you can find transport services from major cities such as Marrakesh. MED Taxi, which was 50 euros each way, is my preferred taxi service.

Med Taxi even lets you stop along the road when you see something totally insane, like this…

Where to stay

I booked “Dar Skala Essaouira” Airbnb, which was fantastic. Our host, Jorge, greeted us warmly upon arrival and gave us a map along with tips for the best experience during our time here.

Here are more amazing options on where to stay in Essaouira:

Luxury – Hôtel Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa sea & spa 

Moderate – Riad Raoud Rayhan

Budget – Riad Orange Cannelle

Where to Eat – Gusto Italia & Triskala

Gusto Italia is not traditional Moroccan food, but offers some delicious Italian, which you may be craving after eating traditional Moroccan dishes all week!

Triskala is another fantastic option. This restaurant is beautifully decorated and offers tasty traditional Moroccan food.

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What to do in Essaouira

We visited during December, and there were hardly any tourists. I assume during peak tourism, it’s quite busy during the day with all the day trip tours from Marrakech.

This is why I recommend spending 2 days here, so you get to explore it when it’s quieter in the evenings. Overall, it should be MUCH more low-key than Marrakech.

1. Explore the Port.

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Exploring the port is one of the main things you’ll want to during your time in Essaouira. I would even suggest visiting during twice, both during the morning and late evening so you can get a glimpse of the morning craziness and the quiet nighttime.

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2. Shop in the Medina.

The Medina of Essaouira is much more manageable than Marrakesh’s gigantic maze. It has a lot of similar things that you’ll find in the Marrakesh markets, only they will be cheaper!

The historical Essaouira Medina is listed as a UNESCO site.

Shopping tip – buy a Moroccan scarf! They are a cheap souvenir that you can pack easily in your luggage.

3. Watch the sunset on the beach.

Morocco truly has the most stunning sunsets. Laying on the beach watching the sun go down is the perfect way to end your trip.

4. Get a traditional Hammam & Massage at Azur Spa

Book yourself a massage and traditional hammam to end your busy trip feeling relaxed. A traditional hammam is a classic cleansing technique of Middle Eastern culture.

Azur Spa was so beautiful! You’ll be greeted with delicious mint tea while you gaze at rose petals and fountains decorated throughout the lobby.

That concludes a perfect trip to the beautiful port town of Essaouira!

Essaouira was a stop that was nearly looked over when planning our itinerary. It’s really quite a gem of a town that is entirely different than the rest of Morocco. If you are looking for an experience that is both cultural and relaxing, this is the place for you.

Other posts you may like:

–Essaouira Pocket Guide

– The Ultimate Sahara Desert Tour

– 15 Photos that will Inspire you to Book a Trip to Morocco