20 Things to Do in Essaouira, Morocco

20 Things to Do in Essaouira, Morocco
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Essaouira, Morocco’s charming coastal city, also known as the ‘Windy City of Africa,’ beckons with its whitewashed medina, vibrant blue fishing boats, and laid-back atmosphere. This historic port town on the Atlantic offers a refreshing escape from the bustle of larger Moroccan cities, with a unique blend of cultures, stunning sea views, and many opportunities for relaxed exploration, including various free things to do in Essaouira that showcase its natural beauty and lively street life.

Whether you’re keen to wander ancient ramparts, explore bustling souks filled with local crafts, enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor, or simply soak up the artistic vibe, Essaouira provides a captivating experience. Its well-preserved medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, combined with its strong winds perfect for watersports, makes it a distinctive destination for all types of travelers.

20 Things to Do in Essaouira, Morocco

Exploring the Historic Medina

Wander the Medina
Lose yourself in the narrow, winding alleyways of Essaouira’s UNESCO-listed medina, a delightful maze of white and blue buildings. Discover hidden squares, traditional shops, and the authentic rhythm of daily life within these historic walls.

Shop in the Souks
Explore the vibrant souks located within the medina, offering a variety of local goods. Find aromatic spices, argan oil products, colorful textiles, and intricate thuya wood crafts unique to the region.

Place Moulay Hassan
Spend time in this bustling main square, a central hub of activity connecting the medina to the port. It’s a great spot for people-watching, enjoying a coffee, and observing the local comings and goings.

Explore the Mellah
Visit the old Jewish Quarter, the Mellah, to see a different facet of Essaouira’s rich history. Though many buildings are now residential, you can still find synagogues and sense the area’s past cultural importance.

Coastal Ramparts and Lively Port

Walk the Skala de la Ville
Stroll along these impressive 18th-century seafront ramparts, offering fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Île de Mogador. Discover the bronze cannons that once defended the city, a perfect spot for photos.

Explore the Skala du Port
Visit the bastion at the fishing port, another set of ramparts providing excellent views of the fishing fleet and the bustling port activity. This area is lively with fishermen and the iconic blue fishing boats.

See the Blue Fishing Boats
Head to the harbor to admire the hundreds of distinctive bright blue fishing boats bobbing in the water. This picturesque scene is a hallmark of Essaouira and a photographer’s delight.

Watch the Fish Auction
Experience the lively atmosphere of the fish auction at the port, usually held in the afternoon when boats return with their catch. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the local fishing industry and a chance to see fresh seafood being traded.

Beach Life and Ocean Activities

Relax on Essaouira Beach
Enjoy the vast expanse of Essaouira’s main beach, perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or simply relaxing. The strong winds make it less ideal for calm swimming but excellent for other coastal pastimes.

Try Kitesurfing or Windsurfing
Take advantage of Essaouira’s famous winds by trying kitesurfing or windsurfing, for which the bay is renowned. Numerous schools along the beach offer lessons and equipment rental for all skill levels.

Horse or Camel Riding on the Beach
Experience a memorable ride along the wide, sandy beach on horseback or atop a camel. It’s a popular activity offering a unique perspective of the coastline, especially beautiful during sunset.

Art, Music, and Culture

Visit Local Art Galleries
Discover Essaouira’s thriving art scene by browsing the many small galleries scattered throughout the medina. You’ll find a range of styles, from traditional motifs to contemporary pieces by talented local artists.

Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah Museum
Explore this museum housed in a former pasha’s residence, showcasing regional history, traditional crafts, musical instruments, and jewelry. It provides good context to the local Berber and Gnaoua cultures.

Listen to Gnaoua Music
Seek out the distinctive spiritual sounds of Gnaoua music, a key part of Essaouira’s cultural identity. While the famous Gnaoua World Music Festival is annual, you can often find smaller performances in cafes or cultural spaces throughout the year.

Discover Thuja Wood Workshops
Observe artisans at work in thuja wood workshops, a craft Essaouira is famous for. See how they create beautiful marquetry boxes, furniture, and decorative items from this fragrant local wood.

Taste of Essaouira

Enjoy Fresh Seafood at the Port
Pick your fresh fish or seafood directly from the stalls at the port and have it grilled on the spot at one of the simple outdoor eateries. This offers an incredibly fresh and authentic dining experience.

Drink Mint Tea at a Café
Embrace the Moroccan tradition of enjoying a glass of sweet mint tea at one of the many cafes in the medina or overlooking the ocean. It’s a perfect way to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy local hospitality.

Free Essaouira Experiences

Sunset from the Ramparts
Witness a spectacular sunset over the Atlantic Ocean from the Skala de la Ville or Skala du Port. This daily natural show is completely free and offers unforgettable views and photo opportunities.

People-Watching in Place Moulay Hassan
Sit on a bench or at a café perimeter in Place Moulay Hassan and simply watch the world go by. Observing locals, tourists, street vendors, and children playing is a fascinating and cost-free activity.

Window Shopping in the Medina
Enjoy the visual feast of the medina’s shops without any obligation to buy, admiring the colorful displays of crafts, spices, and textiles. This allows you to soak in the ambiance and appreciate the local artistry at your own leisure.

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