Essaouira in 1 day — seeing the best of the city on the coast
Essaouira is that classic beach town where many locals and visitors head to in summer. Sitting on the west coast of Morocco, the coastal city has plenty to offer its many visitors. From the beaches, to the markets and the seafood restaurants, finding things to in Essaouira is easy.
The town’s typically touted as an ideal day trip from Marrakech, and it’s easy to see why. By car, it only takes around 50 minutes, and that’s depending on traffic in Marrakech. The maximum number of nights I suggest staying in Essaouira is 3.
There’s enough to do to hold your attention for a few days, but not necessarily for a whole week. This isn’t counting of course the foreigners that have bought a home here, and return regularly. Speaking from my own experience, Essaouira was a stop during our road trip around Morocco, and 1 day was more than enough to see everything.
Traveling in October, the weather in Essaouira is pretty much perfect. The sun radiates the right amount of heat, and there’s a light breeze that keeps the temperature just right. Despite the good weather, we didn’t head to the beach like many, but instead spent our time exploring the sights.
As with traveling to any new place — and on a short schedule — it’s always advisable to start early. This way, you’ll be able to squeeze in everything, and still have time for a long, lazy lunch.
1. Things to do in Essaouira in 1 day — get lost in the streets and souks
I’m a curious person by nature, so the first thing I like to do is explore the local vicinity around my hotel. We stayed at the excellent boutique hotel, Madada Mogador, which also happens to be right at the heart of Essaouira.
Choose from individually-style rooms, or like us, one of the incredibly spacious apartments, ideal for 4 guests. In the morning, head to the rooftop terrace for a freshly-made breakfast accompanied by sea views.
The center of the city lies within the fortress walls. Here. you’ll find restaurants and cafes, not to mention the seemingly endless line of market stalls.
No coastal town in Morocco is complete without having its own souk to explore, and Essaouira has a few. Even if the shopping bit doesn’t interest you, the energy, and atmosphere of the souks surely will.
Moreover, the souks make for some colorful and action shot-like photos, and will sit nicely in your collection. Whether it’s clothes, crafts or traditional food, it’s very hard to leave the souks empty handed.
Booking a tour with a local guide is ideal for travelers visiting Essaouira for a short time. No matter your interest, there’s something to keep everyone happy.
“…the souks make for some colorful and action shot-like photos…”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
“Here. you’ll find restaurants and cafes, not to mention the seemingly endless line of market stalls.”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
2. Things to do in Essaouira in 1 day — buy some (good) argan oil
For anyone familiar with argan oil, Essaouira happens to be in the region that’s full of argan trees. This fragrant oil’s a natural anti-oxidant moisturizer that deeply absorbs into the skin.
It’s also said to have anti-ageing properties, which leaves your skin feeling noticeably softer and more radiant. It’ll come as no surprise then, that you’ll notice many places selling the much coveted oil.
However, knowing whether you’re buying good quality argan oil isn’t easy. To be sure you’re buying the real deal, there are certain things to look out for. This includes checking the colour — it should be dull yellow in tone — as well as the price. A bottle costing 5 Dirhams may not have the same desired effect as one costing 200! To know exactly what to look for before buying, read all the facts before buying.
3. Visit the ramparts of the city
The rampart are the defensive walls and banks that remind visitors of the city’s fortress past. What’s more, the row of canons along the walls are an important part of the town’s history, and they’re also great for Instagram too.
Also, from here, you’re guaranteed to get unspoiled views of the sea, and with no interruption from tourists.
4. Things to do in Essaouira in 1 day — tuck into fresh fish and seafood
Given its seaside location, it’s only right that a trip to Essaouira incurs some sampling of the fresh fish and seafood.
The fish market’s a slight walking distance from the fortress walls, but the smell of the catch is far-reaching.
If you can stomach it, and love fish, you’ll be in fishy utopia, especially if you choose to dine al fresco. If not, there are plenty of good restaurants with indoor dining and no fishy fragrances. Take La Table by Madada.
It’s rated one of the best seafood restaurants in Essaouira, and it’s indoors. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to try the food as it was fully booked, but the positive reviews speak for themselves.
Even if you’re not keen on fish, I’d still encourage you to see the fishing boats on the shore.
The row of bright blue boats against the backdrop of the water is an awesome and calming sight. It’s the complete opposite of the chaotic streets of Marrakech, and an insight into an important local trade.
“I’d still encourage you to see the fishing boats on the shore.”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
5. Sidi Mohammad Ben Abdellah Museum
Take in a spot of culture and find out more about Essaouira’s historical past at Sidi Mohammad Ben Abdellah Museum.
The building dates back to the 19th century, and shows visitors artifacts as well as ancient crafts and jewellery. Also of great interest is the traditional Berber songs and instruments on display, reinforcing the people’s long-time heritage in Morocco.
In brief, our time in Essaouira was an enriching, though brief, experience. While 1 day may not be long enough for some travelers, for us, it fit in well within our schedule.
Have you been to Essaouira? Did you see or do anything differently to the places I mentioned in the post? Let me know in the comments below.
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Lisa Rivera
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Welcome to my site! I'm Lisa, founder of Following the Rivera. I write primarily for a ‘flashpacker’ audience; a demographic (late 20s onwards) that enjoys glamping over camping, staying at boutique/luxury boutique hotels, sampling the local food and wine, cultural activities, and indulging in a spot of wellness on their travels. Read more here…
Whenever I read about Morocco I only read about Marakkech, I’ve so enjoyed reading about your road trip! I love all the vibrant colors in Essaouria and how it’s right on the coast. Definitely will check out an Argan tree farm while I’m there!
Ah you must, it’s a pretty coastal town, and very colourful too!
I have never been to Morocco and if I ever get the chance I will surely stop by Essaouira! Looks like a cosy city to explore for a day or two! And thanks for the tip about bying Argan oil!
You’re welcome. It’s worth visiting, especially during summer and autumn.
I almost can clearly imagine how impressive it must be to walk through such a place like Essaouira even though I never made it so far to Morocco. This marketplaces with all its bright colors and exotic spices, I would love to see this with my own eyes… and then a fresh fish from the fish market. That would bealready enough for me to be perfectly happy.
I hope you get to visit one day and see the vibrant scene and energy for yourself!
I’m going to Marrakech next month for my birthday!!!! And I was thinking about a daytrip in Essaouira!! 🙂
Aw brilliant, you must go! Though it may be much cooler in January than October.
Good to know that October is still a good time to visit here 🙂 I’m planning a trip to Morocco next next during fall season and I’m going to refer to all your posts on Morocco while creating my itinerary 🙂 I love the idea of walking through these kind of souks and streets 🙂 Thanks for sharing !
Aw that’s so encouraging to read, thank you! Autumn is a great time to visit, and you’ll surely have a great time!
I like this place for the fact that it is not as crowded as Marrakech. The Souq definitely would be one of my picks for experiencing the local life. I particularly loved that carved ceiling/ cover along the roads. Is that everywhere? Argan oil – I must look into that as well. Never really considered it seriously 🙂
I saw that carved roof when I was also in Fes, though I don’t know what it means! Argan oil is really beneficial, but just buy the right stuff if you want it to work 😉
I have never heard of Essaouira, but your post makes me want to check it out! I’m especially interested in finding some fresh argon oil. I imagine it’s a little cheaper there than it is in Europe and the States? Plus it’s so fresh! Also, I’m a pescatarian, and thinking of the fresh seafood options are making me hungry 🙂
It’s not as cheap as you probably think, but if you’ve used it before, this is the purest form 🙂 As a pescatarian, you’ll definitely enjoy the fish market there!
I’d love to visit Morocco but didn’t know about Essaouira. It looks amazing. Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome
Looks like you’re having a great time on your Morocco trip, and thanks for taking us along with the pictures. I’ve never heard of Essaouira but I bet I’d visit if I ever go to Morocco. I’m all in for the fresh sea food, nothing beats that. And that argan oil is pricey but I wouldn’t mind, all for a glowing skin.
It’s such a vibrant and colourful country, and taking pictures here really is a pleasure! Essaouira’s a pretty coastal town, and perfect for the summer too! And yes, good argan oil is totally worth it.
I missed Essaouira when I visited Morocco. If I’d have gone I would have skipped the beach too and headed for other activities. I have heard of argan oil, I didn’t realize the complexity of buying it though! More than bargaining skills are required in this case. My favorite part would be the Rampart, it looks very Instagram worthy! Eating some fresh seafood would meet my protein requirements for the day!
The ramparts are really cool, and no-one was there! I recommend it when nice and sunny; grey and rainy doesn’t have the same IG effect!
We are going to Morocco this summer, and I have only just begun planning for it. Essaouira wasn’t even on my radar, but it looks beautiful. I will definitely try to fit it into our itinerary now.
That’s brilliant to read! I’ve written a whole series on tips and advice, so check those out too 😀
What a well-crafted post, I love the photographs, they make the place alive on screen!
Essaouira? I haven’t even heard of this place. You’re writing about all the lesser known places of Morocco! That’s awesome. Its the region full of argon trees? Whoa! 5-300 dirhams per bottle??? That’s cheap to fancy!
Yes! I like to write about lesser known places, and those are may interest others 🙂 Argan oil is worth the price, as long as it’s the real stuff!
It’s so nice to read a post about Essaouira that isn’t just about the beach, and to see a different side of life there. Sounds like you managed to pack lots of things in, even if your trip was just one day. I’d love to go and wander the ramparts of the city! They look absolutely gorgeous 🙂
Thanks Chesca, we had a great time, and actually missed the beach entirely! It’s a great city to explore, and I’d return for summer!
I haven’t even heard about Essaouira, but the pictures tell a lot. Your walked to souks look fun. The picture of the food stuff (were they olives?) reminded me of traditional market in Asia.
Yes, those were really fat olives! The souks in Morocco in general are a lot of fun, and well worth the visit!
I heard about this place for the first time, now, but it sounds like an interesting place to explore for a day or two. I would love to do a Morocco Road Trip one day, perhaps then Essaouira will be on the list, too.
That’s wonderful to hear, I hope you enjoy it if you do go!
Like everyone else has already stated the colors and contrast are breathtaking.
I had never heard of argan oil so thanks for the link to more info about it.
I would love to explore and eat some great seafood like you suggested.
Thanks for sharing. Keep traveling blogging. Adventure is better when shared with friends!
Thank you for the feedback, it’s invaluable, and I appreciate you dropping by!
That sounds like a fun filled day. Beautiful architecture and seafood! Morocco is on my bucket list but had never heard of Essaouira before. Glad I found your post!
Aww you’re welcome. I hope you get to visit one day!
good to read about a place other than Marrakesh..looks quite colorful…and u did quite alot in 1 day..would luv to visit Essaouria on my trip to Morocco..hopefully soon 🙂
That’s great to read, you’ll have a great time!
I dream of going to Morocco one day! Thanks for the tips on selecting quality argan oil. Most helpful!
You’re welcome, I hope you get to go one day!
Essaouira looks and sounds like such a lovely beach town, I could easily spend a day here to wondering around and exploring. I love using argan oil in both my hair and skin, it is such a great product so I would definitely be stocking up when I am there and thanks for the tips about it very helpful.
Argan oil is a great product, and I use it on my hair too 😀 It’s a lovely little beach town, and you’ll have such a nice time exploring it.
i have been there too a year ago. i remember it much less sunny 🙂 i am glad you enjoyed this city.
Glad you enjoyed it!
My friends that I’m meeting in Morocco actually suggested we go to Essaouira for a day trip when I get there so perfect timing on the post 🙂 – You know Lisa, although we are on the opposite ends of the budget I’ve had to do hardly any planning for Morocco – I’ve just been reading your posts haha. Looking forward to eating some fresh fish Moroccan style 😀 By the way, how long does Essaouira take to get to from Marrakech?
haha, I’m happy to read that! It’s a lovely coastal town, and it’s around 2 and a half hours from Marrakech. I really hope you enjoy it, though it may be a bit cooler then!
Thats great to know that you can take a day trip from Marrakech to such a great places like Essaouira! I am planning a trip to Morocco hopefully for 2018 so it will be great to explore more than just that one city! Too bad you didn’t get to try food in that restaurant! I guess you gonna have to go back there one day 🙂
Totally Ada! We had a lovely time there, and unless you plan to stay at the beach, I think a day trip is really perfect! I hope you enjoy your time there next year:D
More I read about Morocco, more I get fascinated by this place. I have probably read all your Morocco posts and I can’t wait to visit personally. About Essaouria, I find it calm, slow and peaceful though your post and pictures. There is a different kind of aura about this place. I liked the popping blue color in the market area. Even the souks are quite vibrant and lively. The fort walls are definitely eye catching as well.
Thank you, that’s so encouraging for me to read! I had such a great time in Morocco, and Essaouira is a pretty town, and the perfect day trip!
Your comments about the fishy smell at the fish market resonated with me a little too much…in Fiji I made the terrible mistake of walking into an inside fish market, that had no cooling air or anything and the stench was overpowering, I had to hold my breath and get out as fast as possible! So other than the fish market, this sounds like a delightful place to visit! I’d definitely be stopping up on Argan oil too!
Haha, I know exactly how you feel! It was really overpowering, and even though I love fish and seafood, it became too much! The argan oil is totally worth it if you get the good stuff!
It’s my first time to hear about Essaouira and it looks so gorgeous! I definitely love getting lost in the streets and souks. I’d love to visit the fish market to get some fresh fish as well. Nothing is better than having a good meal with fresh fish.The color and the architecture of the place is so stunning too 🙂
It’s really gorgeous, more so in the summertime when it’s bright and sunny. Yes, fish is everywhere, so it’s a good thing you like it!
Morocco is very high on our “must visit” list in the not so distant future! And your story just eggs us on! Ahhh, the smells of fish. Amazing how we get sensitized to certain smells and odors and not to others. Meat markets and fish markets the world over don’t have quite the same, shall we say, sanitized atmosphere so many of us have become used to in many European or North American grocery stores. That said, some great experiences, photos and interactions are to be had with locals in these very same “stinky” markets in Africa, South America, Asia that you won’t get anywhere else.
You’re absolutely right, and if you can take the smell, and love markets, you’ll be in traveller and foodie paradise! Onto market hopping in 2018 😀
Looks like there’s so much to do in Essaouira! I agree, whenever I visit an Arab region, visiting the souks are a must and argan oil – like did you even go to Morocco if you didn’t bring some back with you? lol
It’s a great product, and I use it all the time! Essaouira’s a pretty town and very vibrant too!
Wow Essaouira looks gorgeous. I have friends who sailed there from Spain and they told me only the best. The food looks so good!
That’s great to read, I totally understand why 😀
My brother spent Xmas here last year and also sang its praises as a different destination. I’ve never been to Morocco but your pictures are stunning and really did catch my interest. The souks sound interesting too, who can resist a souk?
Not me, that’s for sure! That’s great to read, and I can understand why your brother really enjoyed it!
Essaouira looks pretty…The town looks steeped in history and has so much similarity with Marrakesh. Argan oil is one of the best buys from Morocco. Though I can withstand the smell of fish markets, I think I am gonna skip that if I ever visit this place.
I’ll be honest, it’s pretty hard to skip the smell, as it gets everywhere! Still, the town is pretty and worth a visit if in Morocco.
Every time that you post about your experiences in Morocco, I get closer and closer to purchasing a flight there! From the copious amounts of fresh fish to the numerous market stalls, Essaouira seems like such a charming coastal town. Will definitely add it to my list of must-visits in Morocco.
I’m so happy to read that Lois! It’s a marvellous country and with so many experiences to take in. I really hope my posts are inspiring you to go!
Interesting and insightful information on Essaouira. I haven’t been before, I will love to visit next time. Love the photos, especially the colorful markets.
Thank you! It’s a lovely little coastal town, and worth a visit.
I just added a new city to my Morocco itinerary. Why had I never paid attention to Essaouira before? The souks and the harbour and the castle, all look so stunning. Is one day really enough or should one plan longer?
It depends on your plans. For us, 1 day was more than enough as we were on a road trip, but you can stay longer if you want a beach holiday in summer 🙂
Not making it out to Essaouira is one of our biggest regrets from our trip to Morocco! I’d love to see the souks there, I know they’re supposed to be more laid back than the ones in Marrakech or Fes. I would definitely want to see those fishing boats, too, even if I did have to hold my breath the whole time I was down there!
It’s a really pretty coastal city, especially when the sun’s shining! Maybe on your next trip you’ll make it to Essaouira 🙂
‘Eat some fresh fish and sea food,’ see me smiling at that. Essaouira is one part of Morocco I’m yet to see in pictures, thanks to you I’m educated on this. And exploring this city in 1 day might not do too much justice
Nice to know I made you smile 😀 You can totally spend longer in Essaouira, the beach is lovely, especially in summer and autumn.
We love markets and alleys like these. It gives us a better and a more authentic perspective of a place’s history, culture, and everyday life. And in many cases, the food in these places seem to taste better than their counterparts in malls or restaurants.
You’re very right, and the food was very fresh and tasted organic too! A nice little Moroccan city on the coast 😀
What a beautiful little town! I love exploring local markets, Essaouira’s souk is just about that. The colours and old market charm is still inherent here, and that makes it a must visit. As I’m a vegetarian, fishing is definitely not my thing, wouldn’t be able to dtand the smell as well.
It’s very pretty, and yes, unfortunately the fish smell is very overpowering! Still a nice place to visit if in Morocco.
Essaouira is indeed a revelation. I was not aware of this exotic city. The streets look mesmerizing and the Souks seem to evoke an aura of the Arabian nights.Your pictures have very well captured the colour and vibrancy of the place.
Thank you! We really enjoyed our time here, and I recommend it to anyone!
I love visiting coastal cities because they tend to have a lot of culture and history. By the looks of it, Essaouira seems to have these covered. I love the markets and the view of the harbour. This would be a city I would be keen on exploring!
Essaouira’s a little Moroccan gem! Go in summer or autumn, and you’ll really enjoy the sights there.
What a gorgeous city! I’m with you with the idea that it’s always worth visiting the markets, even if you’re not interested in buying anything. There’s always so much to see and it’s a great way to learn about a place. I appreciate your honesty about the smell of the fishing area of the waterfront! Some things really are more enjoyable in photos!
Absolutely! It’s a lovely little city by the sea, but the fishy smell can be overwhelming!
Lisa, thanks for taking me through to a previously unknown destination. (May be i’m ignorant) Reading your post was a delight and I have loved Morocco always. So eating fish in Essaouria is now on bucket list! Thanks for the addition.
That’s great to read! We really enjoyed our time there, and know others will too.
I haven’t been to Morocco in my entire life, and I’ve been hoping to get a chance to traipse my feet here soon. Anyway, the town of Essaouira is really that lively with so much to offer. The fact that the energy, and atmosphere of Souks have really interested me, I will definitely get here soon. I’ve heard about Argan oil before, and knowing that this place has so much Argan trees, it really makes me excited. Thank you so much for sharing this.
I hope so too! It’s a fab country to visit, and know others will really enjoy it too.
Essaouira is a great little city that is quite friendly to western visitors. I spent several days there and my kids learned to surf from one of the schools on the beach. One place I would highly recommend is Cafe Des Arts, a restaurant where most of the staff plays musical instruments and invites the customers to join in.
Wow nice! So you really know Essaouira well. I can’t remember the cafe, but we went to a few great places while there.
Morocco is so intriguing. Love your description of the souks. The atmosphere and energy sounds incredible. What’s the scoop on swimming there? Is the water clean? What would be the culturally appropriate swim attire…or is it taboo to swim in public as a women?
Essaouira is a tourist spot, so wearing bikinis/swimsuits at the beach is fine, and the water was warm when we were there 🙂 I’d recommend dressing appropriately when walking around the town, just so you won’t stick out too much!
You are right the souks do make for splendid photos – love the spice shots and the fortress. They also make for epic pins, i am pinning them all. Also putting Essouira on my bucket list – big yes for argan oil!
Aww thank you!! That’s so kind 🙂 And yes, argan oil is so beneficial too!
Essaouira looks perfect tourist spot in Morocco with beaches and colorful souk. I would love to buy some original Argan oil as it has lots of benefits for skin and hair. Also the fishing boasts look very beautiful. I would sure go to this place when I visit Morocco.
It’s a wonderful coastal town, and still hot in October too!
Essaouira is really pretty. It seems that I have to include this in my bucket list. The place has a lot of similarity with Marrakech and has huge historical significance – a place of my choice. It surely makes a great day trip from Marrakech.
You’re right on every point! It’s a great day trip from Marrakech, and worth visiting when in Morocco 🙂