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Essaouira, Morocco - Things to See and Do

What to see and do in Essaouira, Morocco

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Essaouira, Morocco is a popular tourist destination with its charming medina and its active fishing port

Essaouira is a coastal city in western Morocco, located on the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its unique blend of traditional Moroccan and Portuguese-influenced architecture, its vibrant arts scene, and its idyllic setting surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and pristine beaches.

We visited Essaouira on 9/26/2018. We visited the fish market, ate fresh caught seafood and walked through the old walled city. It was a filming location for the Game of Thrones.

The city has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, when it was founded as a fortified port by the Alawite Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdullah.

In addition to its cultural and historical attractions, Essaouira is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing, thanks to its consistent Atlantic winds and rolling waves. The surrounding countryside is also ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and birdwatching, and the city is home to several nature reserves and parks, including the Oued Ksob estuary and the Rhunate Forest. Essaouira also has a thriving art community, which includes many local artisans and craftsmen.

Whether you're interested in exploring the city's rich history and cultural heritage, or simply want to relax on its stunning beaches and enjoy the great outdoors, Essaouira has something to offer for everyone. It's a great place to eat fresh seafood, shop, surf, or ride a camel on the beach.

Looking for a place to stay? Click here for options.

Looking for things to do? Viator offers numerous tours to the Essaouira area. Click here for details.

Pictures from Essaouira

The ancient walled city of Essaouira on the west coast of the Atlantic Ocean.
Traditional fishing boats in Essaouira.
Fisherman selling his catch of the day at the fish market.
Fresh caught fish on display at a restaurant near the fish market. Select what you want and they cook it for you.
Having lunch at one of the local restaurants near the fish market.
Pulling one of the boats in on the boat ramp after it's return from fishing.
The gates to the old city in Essaouira.
Street in the old city of Essaouira.
Borj El Barmil is a part of the ramparts of Scala du Port in Essaouira.
People riding camels on the beach on the Atlantic Ocean at Plage d'Essaouira.
Malecon at Plage d'Essaouira.
View of Essaouira from highway N8 near Maison Forestiere d'Azlef.

Ouled Mrah

Goats in an Argon tree near Ouled Mrah on highway N8.
Boy riding a donkey near Ouled Mrah on highway N8.
Donkeys pulling a cart of hay near Ouled Mrah on highway N8.