Things to Do in Essaouira, Morocco (Complete Travel Guide From My Trip)

Essaouira quickly became one of my favourite destinations in Morocco. Windy, artistic, relaxed, and full of character, this Atlantic coastal town offers the perfect balance between culture, food, history, and slow travel. I spent several days exploring its medina, ramparts, cafés, beaches, and port—never rushed, never bored.

If you’re wondering what to do in Essaouira, this guide covers everything I actually did, loved, and would recommend.

Why Visit Essaouira?

Essaouira is ideal if you want a calmer alternative to Marrakech. The medina is lively but manageable, the beach is wild and refreshing, and the overall vibe is creative and laid‑back. Whether you’re here for a few days or a full week, there are plenty of things to do without feeling overwhelmed.

Walk Along Essaouira’s Ramparts (Skala de la Ville)

One of the top things to do in Essaouira is walking along the historic ramparts. The Skala de la Ville offers dramatic views over the Atlantic Ocean, lined with old cannons and stone arches. Sunset here is unforgettable—and yes, this is also a Game of Thrones filming location.

Tip: Expect strong wind. A light jacket is essential year‑round.

Don't miss the oppotunity to buy a beautiful paint from this nice lady, she exposes her pieces of art beside the Skala.

Get Lost in the Medina (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Essaouira’s medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most pleasant old towns to explore in Morocco. I wandered without a map, popping into artisan shops, sipping mint tea, and admiring blue‑and‑white architecture. Unlike other Moroccan cities, shopping here feels relaxed and friendly—no pressure, no chaos.

Visit the Fishing Port & Sqala du Port

The port of Essaouira is raw, lively, and full of local energy. Watching fishermen unload their catch while blue boats rock in the harbour was easily one of my favourite experiences. Nearby, the Sqala du Port offers iconic photo opportunities looking back toward the medina walls.

If you like Sea food, I recommend you to buy from the port market fresh sea food (fish or others) and go inside the medina there is few traditional places that will BBQ the fish for you so you can have the best sea food in your life. this option is way cheaper than eating at the restaurant at the port, that will cost you 10 times more.

Blue fishing boats at the port of Essaouira, Morocco near the medina walls.

Relax at the Beach & Watch Kite‑Surfers

Essaouira’s beach is long, wide, and incredibly windy—making it perfect for kite‑surfing. Instead of sunbathing, I took long walks along the shoreline, watched locals and travellers mingle, and enjoyed the refreshing Atlantic air. This is one of the most relaxing things to do in Essaouira, especially in the late afternoon.

Café Hopping & Mint Tea Breaks

Essaouira is made for slow mornings and coffee breaks. I spent hours people‑watching from small cafés in the medina, sipping mint tea or spiced lattes. Cafés here are affordable, social, and often accompanied by friendly local cats lounging nearby.

Shopping in Essaouira’s Souk

Shopping in Essaouira is much calmer than in Marrakech or Fes. I bought spices, small souvenirs, and leather goods while enjoying lighthearted bargaining. Some of the best prices were in artisan workshops tucked under the ramparts and in less touristy sections of the souk. make sure to explore all the small streets inside the souk (market) there is few hiden places inside.

Eat Street Food & Local Sweets

Some of my best meals in Essaouira came from tiny street food spots. Fresh wraps, snacks near the beach, and especially the famous 2‑dirham doughnuts are not to be missed. One evening, I followed a long queue to Patisserie Boujemaa and discovered some of the best ice cream and crêpes of my Morocco trip.

Experience Gnawa Music in Essaouira

Essaouira is considered the spiritual home of Gnawa music. I stumbled upon spontaneous performances in the medina, with rhythmic drums and hypnotic chants filling the streets. If you visit during the annual Gnawa & World Music Festival (usually in June), the entire city turns into a massive open‑air concert.

Visit an Argan Oil Cooperative

Outside the city, I visited a women‑run argan oil cooperative and learned how Morocco’s famous “liquid gold” is traditionally produced. Argan products are sold everywhere in Essaouira, but seeing the process firsthand made me appreciate their value much more.

Optional Activities Near Essaouira

If you want more adventure, Essaouira also offers:

• Guided walking tours

• Moroccan cooking classes

• Quad biking and sand‑dune excursions (on camels or horses)

Even if you prefer a relaxed pace, these activities are easy to add to your itinerary.

How Many Days in Essaouira?

I’d recommend 4 to 5 days to fully enjoy Essaouira without rushing. It’s also a great place to slow down during a longer Morocco trip or combine with Marrakech and the Atlantic coast.

Final Thoughts: Is Essaouira Worth Visiting?

Absolutely!!! Essaouira is relaxed, artistic, safe, and full of soul. It’s the kind of place where you go for a few days and start thinking about staying longer. If you’re looking for a coastal city in Morocco with character and calm energy, Essaouira should be high on your list.