Located just a three-hour drive from Marrakech, Essaouira is a charming coastal city that offers a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of Morocco’s larger cities. Known for its whitewashed buildings with striking blue doors, narrow alleys, and historical fortifications, Essaouira has long been a favorite for visitors seeking both history and tranquility. It has even served as the backdrop for several popular films, including John Wick, Kingdom of Heaven, and Game of Thrones.

After spending time in the chaotic streets of Marrakech, we were eager for some peace and fresh air, so we set out to explore this beautiful seaside city. Here’s a breakdown of our experience, including travel tips, highlights, and what we loved about Essaouira.

How to Get to Essaouira

Getting to Essaouira is relatively straightforward. We opted for the bus, which departs from Marrakech’s coach station. There are multiple companies to choose from, but we decided to go with CTM because of its reputation and the ability to book tickets online. The cost for two return tickets was 324 MAD, and the journey took about three hours, passing through beautiful scenery of rocky deserts, small farms, and quaint towns. Along the way, we made a brief 20-minute stop for refreshments.

While the bus is the easiest and most affordable option, there are also flights available, though Essaouira’s airport is small and only served by a limited number of destinations. Renting a car is another choice, but given the driving conditions and the fact that police often target foreign drivers, we found the bus to be the most stress-free option.

Walking Around Essaouira

Essaouira is much smaller than cities like Marrakech, and its charm is best explored on foot. After arriving at the bus station, we walked for about 20 minutes to reach the medina, and it felt like a refreshing change from the larger, busier cities we had visited. The city is clean, quiet, and incredibly walkable, with wide, flat sidewalks that make strolling around easy. It’s the kind of city where you can truly enjoy taking your time without feeling rushed.

One thing we did notice was that, outside of the medina, people were more inclined to watch us closely. While we never felt unsafe, the stares were a bit more pronounced compared to other places in Morocco. This could be due to the more local nature of Essaouira, which is less tourist-focused than cities like Marrakech.

Taxis in Essaouira: No Negotiation Needed

Unlike other cities in Morocco where taxi prices can be a headache to negotiate, Essaouira offers a flat fee for all rides within the city limits. The fee is 8 MAD during the day and 9 MAD at night, making it easy and affordable to get around. This was a welcome relief, as we didn’t have to worry about getting overcharged or trying to haggle for a fair price.

However, be sure to use the blue taxis and always pay in cash. It’s also a good idea to pay the exact fare since taxi drivers may not have change for larger bills.

Essaouira’s Medina: A More Authentic Experience

The medina in Essaouira is much quieter than those in cities like Marrakech, which is what makes it so special. It has fewer souvenir shops and more businesses that cater to locals, such as small cafés, repair shops, and markets. The atmosphere is relaxed, and we never felt overwhelmed by aggressive vendors. The narrow, winding streets are full of charm, and we spent hours getting lost in them, discovering hidden gems along the way.

For food lovers, Essaouira is a great destination. The city offers a wide variety of affordable local dishes, from classic tajine and couscous to fresh seafood. One of our favorite places to eat was Restaurant Taghazout, a local spot serving generous portions of delicious food at an excellent price. The central market is also a great place to pick up fresh fruit, pastries, and street food.

Sights to See in Essaouira

While the medina itself is one of the main attractions, Essaouira has plenty more to offer. One must-see is the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a beautiful fortress that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The kasbah is home to the Andalusian Gardens, a peaceful space where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. We spent a few hours wandering through the maze of narrow streets, soaking in the local atmosphere, and enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean.

The Place Moulay Hassan is another key spot in the medina, offering access to the beach and the city’s busy port. The port is often filled with colorful fishing boats and vendors selling the catch of the day, providing a lively and authentic scene. If you plan to eat there, though, we recommend being cautious, as some restaurants near the port have been known to overcharge tourists.

For a stunning view of the city, head to the ramparts of the old fort, especially at sunset. The view of the ocean and the sun setting over the horizon is simply unforgettable. Although access is technically closed after 7 p.m., we found that no one seemed to mind, and we were able to enjoy the scene without any trouble.

Final Thoughts on Essaouira

Essaouira offers the perfect mix of relaxation, history, and local charm. While it might not have the excitement of other Moroccan cities, its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque streets make it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind. We loved the slower pace and the opportunity to explore the medina without the crowds. If you’re visiting Morocco and looking for a peaceful retreat by the coast, Essaouira should definitely be on your list.

If you plan to explore the city and its surroundings at a leisurely pace, a few days is all you’ll need. But we highly recommend staying a bit longer if you want to truly soak in the charm of this beautiful coastal city.

Have you visited Essaouira? What did you think of it? Share your thoughts with us!