Why Visit Essaouira
Essaouira City, known as the “Windy City of Africa,” is one of Morocco’s most charming coastal destinations. With its white-and-blue Medina, long sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and lively arts scene, Essaouira Morocco is a favorite among travelers looking for beauty, culture, and ocean breezes.
Its unique blend of history, music, surfing culture, and seaside cafés makes Essaouira stand out from other Moroccan coastal towns. The Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is peaceful, artistic, and full of galleries, craft shops, and traditional riads.
This guide serves as your complete Essaouira travel guide, designed to help you explore the top places to visit in Essaouira, discover its hidden gems, and enjoy the city’s calm and creative spirit.
To explore Moroccan cuisine often served in coastal towns like Essaouira, visit our Foods & Drinks Guide

Medina, Arts & Seaside Culture
The Soul of Essaouira City
Essaouira’s Medina is one of the most peaceful and photogenic in Morocco. Unlike larger cities, its streets are wide, airy, and easy to navigate. The whitewashed walls, blue doors, and artistic touches at every corner make Essaouira sightseeing especially enjoyable.
Essaouira has long been an artistic hub, attracting musicians, painters, and creators from around the world. The city is also famous for its Gnaoua Music Festival, which brings global artists together each year to celebrate cultural fusion.
Walking through the Medina reveals artisan workshops specializing in thuya wood, textiles, silver jewelry, and traditional crafts. The port area, with its iconic blue fishing boats and defensive ramparts, offers some of the most scenic views in the city.
Top Attractions & Experiences
Things to Do in Essaouira
Essaouira offers a rich mix of culture, coastline, and outdoor experiences. Some of the most popular Essaouira attractions include:
- Skala de la Kasbah – Historic stone walls overlooking the ocean, perfect for photography.
- Essaouira Port – Famous for its blue fishing boats and fresh seafood stalls.
- Essaouira Beach – Ideal for long walks, surfing, kitesurfing, and horseback riding.
- Jewish Quarter (Mellah) – Historic and architecturally unique neighborhood.
- Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum – Showcasing cultural artifacts and local history.
- Gnaoua Music Venues – Small cafés offering vibrant music performances year-round.
The refreshing ocean wind gives Essaouira a mild coastal climate, making it one of the most pleasant cities to visit in Morocco throughout the year. Whether you’re into culture, nature, or adventure, Essaouira tourism has something for every traveler.

Good to Know
Location
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Artistic Heritage
Beaches and Water Sports
Culinary Delights
- Temperature
- Precipitation
- Rain Chance
- Wind
- Humidity
- Pressure
