What is there to see in Essaouira?
Are you preparing a stay in Essaouira and looking for the must-see places? The city can mostly be explored on foot, starting with the medina before heading to the ramparts, the port and the beach.
Here are the sites and experiences to include in your programme. For an overview of the destination, also see our complete guide to Essaouira.
1. The medina of Essaouira
Start with the lanes of the medina. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, it is the historic heart of the city.
2. The Skala de la Kasbah
The ramparts and cannons of the Skala offer one of the most famous panoramas in Essaouira. The walk lets you see the ocean and part of the medina.
3. The Skala du Port
The second major fortification overlooks the port. The Skala du Port is especially interesting when combined with the Marine Gate and a visit to the fishing port.
4. The Marine Gate
Built in the 18th century, the Marine Gate historically links the city to the port. It is one of the remarkable architectural elements of the historic seafront.
5. The fishing port
The port lets you discover an activity that is still very present in the city. The boats, the fishermen and the arriving catch create an atmosphere very different from the medina.
6. The fish market
An interesting stop to discover Essaouira's seafood cuisine. You can then continue to the restaurants and small places by the port. To cook yourself, discover the Moroccan cooking workshop in Essaouira.
7. The Mellah
The Mellah lets you discover part of the Jewish history of Essaouira. It completes the visit of the historic centre, with the Haim Pinto synagogue and the House of Memory (Bayt Al Dakira).
8. The Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum
This museum, devoted notably to the arts, crafts and folk traditions of the region, lets you deepen your cultural discovery. The Moroccan National Tourist Office presents it among the cultural places of the medina.
→ Practical information on the museum
9. The art galleries
Essaouira is known for its artistic community. Many galleries are located in the medina and let you discover Moroccan and international artists.
10. The thuya wood workshops
Thuya woodwork is part of Essaouira's traditional craftsmanship. The workshops let you observe different carving and marquetry techniques.
11. The beach
The big beach is easily accessible from the medina. It lets you take a break between two visits or try different water activities.
12. Diabat
South of Essaouira, Diabat is associated notably with the cultural history of the region and with coastal landscapes. It is an easy excursion to add to a stay.
13. Sidi Kaouki
To discover an atmosphere more focused on nature and water sports, Sidi Kaouki is an interesting excursion south of Essaouira.
14. The argan forest
The surroundings of Essaouira are associated with the argan tree. An excursion can let you discover the argan forest landscapes and the work done in some women's cooperatives.
→ Discover the activities and excursions around Essaouira
15. Water activities
Surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing are among Essaouira's emblematic activities. The Moroccan National Tourist Office highlights the wind and wave conditions that attract people who practise these sports.
→ Surf lessons in Essaouira · Kitesurf lessons
How long does it take to visit Essaouira?
For the essentials of the historic centre, one day already lets you see a lot. However, two days let you enjoy the city more. With three days, you can add an excursion and an activity.
Two-day itinerary example
Day 1
Medina → Skala de la Kasbah → galleries → Mellah → port → Skala du Port → fish market.Day 2
Beach → water activity → Diabat or Sidi Kaouki → sunset.
→ See the visits and experiences available: day excursion to Essaouira from Marrakech
To organise your trip, read our guide How to get to Essaouira.
Essaouira's must-sees in one sentence
If you only have one day: medina + Skala + port + fish market + beach.
If you have two or three days: add cultural heritage + crafts + a water activity + an excursion around Essaouira.
