Essaouira Overview

The siren song of Essaouira is inescapable. A dye-producing colony in Phoenician times, the town has remained an important port throughout the ages, valued first for its secure ramparts, a later for its scrumptious sardines. The Gnaoua World Music Festival is held every year in June, and the town's numerous galleries flaunt its artistic riches, but for most of the year Essaouira's a quietly hip place.

• Orientation

Essaouira's gorgeous medina is a true pleasure to navigate. Even the few destinations outside of the ramparts, such as the bus station and the beach, are within easy walking distance. To get to the medina ...more

• Accommodations

Hotels in Essaouira are a little pricier than elsewhere in Morocco, but that's because they're better, with tastefully decorated rooms, reliable hot water, and breezy roof terraces. Hostel Essaouira, ...more

• Sights

In between relaxing on the beach and lolling in cafes, it's well worth your time to appreciate the artisan galleries of Essaouira's beautiful medina. Make sure to climb the ramparts of the Skala to get ...more

• Food

The cheapest dining can be found at the fish sandwich places along Av. L'Istiqlal and Blvd. Mohammed Al Quori. Pick any vendor and you can score a fish sandwich for 10-15dh. To eat unbelievably fresh and ...more

• Nightlife

Just because Essaouira is a tranquil town by the sea, that doesn't mean there's no action to be found come nightfall. Start off your evening on one of two terrace bars in Pl. Moulay Hassan. Casa Vera, ...more

• Essentials

Tourist Office:Office du Tourisme. (Av. du Caire.☎ 05 24 78 37 11 > The street coming off of Av. L'Istiqlal opposite the clock tower. i Excellent tourist brochures ...more

• Getting There

Aéroport de Mogador is 15km south of town on the road to Agadir. (☎ 05 24 47 87 04)

• Getting Around

Walk! You can also take a petit taxi or ride in style in a horse-drawn calèche found outside of Bab Doukala.