(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!

Get the FREE Esaouira Pocket Guide HERE
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.
Gusto Italia – Shrimp Fettuccine Triskala – Falafel Platter
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.

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.
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:
– The Ultimate Sahara Desert Tour
– 15 Photos that will Inspire you to Book a Trip to Morocco
New From the Blog

17 Best Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam where you can waltz the streets of the night market or get served a tasty bowl of pho to the tune of cars echoing all around you. With so much to do in the country’s capital, it’s important to spend a minimum of 3 days in this…

Beacon Main Street and More – Best Things to Do in Beacon NY
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…

Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in Minca – What You Need to Know
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
New From the Blog

Beacon Main Street and More – Best Things to Do in Beacon NY
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…

Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in Minca – What You Need to Know
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
I went to Marrakesh for my birthday last year and absolutely loved it! I can’t wait to go back again and explore other parts of the country like Essaouira! Save this to Pinterest for future reference!
We always appreciate budget travel tips. Watching the sunset is one of our favorite free activities wherever we go! Thanks for sharing
Essaouira has been on my list of places to go FOREVER. Been to Morocco a couple of times yet never make it here. Thanks a lot for the detailed info, I might just have to go next time!
Omg, I LOVE following your travels on Instagram, you are one of my favorite accounts! You would love it Essaouira!
That photo of the goats in the trees is too funny! I haven’t been to Morocco yet but it’s one of the places I hope to visit next. Essaouira looks amazing!
The variety to your trip was amazing! I can’t want to visit Morocco! This is def a place I want to visit for sure. The photo of the goats omg! lol