Essaouira Holidays
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Our guide on where to stay in Essaouira
Essaouira Coast
The windswept Essaouira Coast captivates visitors with its dramatic Atlantic shoreline and UNESCO-listed medina. Golden beaches stretch northward where consistent trade winds attract windsurfers and kitesurfers from around the world. Ancient ramparts and blue fishing boats create a picturesque scene steeped in history. Stroll along the vibrant harbour where freshly-caught seafood is grilled dockside. The whitewashed medina with blue shutters offers artisan workshops selling argan oil products and thuya wood crafts. Gnaoua music drifts through narrow alleys, especially during the famous annual festival.
Medina
Wander through Essaouira's UNESCO-listed medina, where 18th-century ramparts embrace a world of Moroccan treasures. Bronze cannons stand sentinel at Skala de la Ville fortress, overlooking the Atlantic's endless blue. Narrow cobblestone alleys lead to vibrant souks selling colourful spices, thuya woodcrafts, and silver jewellery. The medina pulses with authentic cultural life where traditional Gnawa music floats through whitewashed buildings with distinctive blue shutters. Visit the historic Haim Pinto Synagogue to discover the area's unique Moroccan-Jewish heritage. Everything in this pedestrian paradise sits within a 15-minute walk.
Ahl Agadir
Explore the enchanting coastal district of Ahl Agadir in Essaouira's UNESCO-listed medina. Ancient Portuguese fortifications stand guard over the Atlantic while narrow alleys reveal artisans hammering silver and weaving traditional carpets. The historic port bustles with blue fishing boats as seagulls circle overhead. Wander through the cultural treasure trove of Dar Souiri and Gallery d'Art Damgaard. The whitewashed buildings with blue shutters create striking contrast against dramatic rampart walls. Rooftop terraces offer spectacular ocean views while local souks showcase authentic Berber crafts and argan oil products.
Kasbah
The historic Kasbah of Essaouira stands as a striking 18th-century fortress where whitewashed walls meet dramatic Atlantic waves. Ancient ramparts crowned with cannons offer breathtaking ocean panoramas from every angle. Narrow cobblestone streets wind between traditional buildings, revealing artisan workshops crafting intricate thuya wood and silver treasures. Place Moulay el Hassan anchors this cultural haven where local Gnawa music traditions thrive alongside authentic Moroccan daily life. Visitors can explore the Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum and admire Portuguese-Moorish architecture featuring ornate metalwork. The constant sound of crashing waves creates a peaceful backdrop for rooftop dining with spectacular sunset views.
Chbanat
Step into the heart of Essaouira's medina in the Chbanat area, where whitewashed walls and blue accents create a timeless Moroccan scene. Narrow cobblestone passages wind through this UNESCO-listed district, leading to traditional artisan workshops. Local metalworkers and potters practice centuries-old crafts in small, family-run studios. The area offers an authentic glimpse into Moroccan daily life rarely found in tourist areas. Small local markets sell handcrafted goods at prices well below those in main souks. From rooftop terraces, visitors can enjoy stunning Atlantic Ocean views while being just minutes from attractions like Skala de la Ville.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Essaouira
What to do in Essaouira
From Marrakech To Essaouira Mogador Full Day Trip Smallgroup
From Marrakech To Essaouira Mogador Full Day Trip | Small-group
Day Trip to Essaouira from Marrakech
Essaouira Hotel Deals
"Very clean and comfortable, and the location was perfect."
"Nice design Medina riad . Does not have air conditioning, no elevator, not recommended for people with knee problems as we were on the third level. We were reading wonderful reviews about the place and the staff but we found them rather inflexible with any requests. Bed was comfortable but no place to open the suitcases. Breakfast was very good the first day but the second (last day) as they start serving it at 9 we had to skip it."
"The hotel is well situated for exploring the town and beach. The staff were helpful and the roof terrace is a lovely place to have breakfast. As the rooms are internally facing, it's noisy. The breakfast was OK, the lighting in the room (as seems to be always the way) was very poor and the towels were grey and scruffy."
"Beautiful place and kind and helpful staff."
"It was lovely, clean and very friendly staff!"
"Great location. Very helpful. Just renovated."
Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa Sea & Spa - MGallery Collection
Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa Sea & Spa - MGallery Collection
"I was especially impressed by the welcoming staff, who were able to assist with needed and made us feel very welcome. Room was decent size, excellent aircon and WiFi (not a given on my trip). The shower was powerful and the hotel was immaculately clean. Breakfast was varied and tasty. A very pleasant stay."
Find out more about Essaouira
Things to do in Essaouira
Shopping
The Fish Market in Essaouira offers a vibrant atmosphere with fresh seafood and local produce, perfect for a unique shopping experience. Souk Jdid immerses you in authentic Moroccan culture, filled with artisanal crafts. If you're up for a drive, explore larger malls in nearby cities for more variety.
Recreation
At Essaouira Mogador Golf Course, immerse yourself in a scenic outdoor setting while enjoying a round of golf. The beautiful landscapes and fresh coastal air create a rejuvenating atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and recreation after a day of exploring Essaouira's charm.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of windsurfing on Essaouira's expansive beaches, where consistent trade winds create perfect conditions. Alternatively, explore the vibrant medina's narrow alleys, filled with local crafts and delicious street food, offering a taste of the city's rich culture and history.
Nightlife
In Essaouira, vibrant nightlife awaits at the bustling Medina, where you can enjoy local music and lively bars. Visit the famous Café Mogador for live performances, or relax at beachfront lounges like Taros, where the ocean breeze complements the rhythm of the night.
Find the best attractions in Essaouira
Essaouira is perfect for a beach and outdoor getaway, offering a mix of culture and city experiences. Explore the historic sites and vibrant squares, and don't miss the stunning Essaouira Beach and its picturesque coast. The lively port of Essaouira and surrounding attractions provide plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both sport and scenic beauty.
- Place Moulay el Hassan: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling square, surrounded by lively cafés and local artisans. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the cultural energy of Essaouira while enjoying a mint tea or freshly prepared Moroccan delicacies.
- Skala de la Ville: Explore this historic site, where ancient fortifications meet stunning ocean views. The ramparts offer a glimpse into Essaouira's past and are adorned with canons, making it an ideal place for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
- Essaouira Clock Tower: This charming clock tower is a symbol of the city’s rich history. Nestled in a picturesque setting, it provides a lovely backdrop for leisurely strolls, and nearby markets offer a taste of local craftsmanship.
Best time to go to Essaouira
The best time to visit Essaouira can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Essaouira falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Essaouira falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Essaouira
- Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
- Consider traveling to Essaouira during the low season (January to February and November) for more affordable options.
- Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
- Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Essaouira holiday package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Essaouira break. However, a range of factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will influence how much your holiday to Essaouira costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Essaouira?
You're likely to find lower rates and greater availability in February, November and December. Check out our cheap Essaouira holiday packages and you could land some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Essaouira?
Essaouira holidays can be short or long, but to really get a feel for this destination, we'd suggest 3 days is a good ballpark. This will mean you can visit headline attractions like Place Moulay el Hassan and Essaouira Mogador Golf Course and seek out some lesser-known gems. Don't miss out on neighbourhoods such as Medina and Bani Antar either. If you're clever with your time, you can even schedule a day trip outside of Essaouira too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Essaouira?
Known for its surfing, watersports and a host of other highlights, you can be certain Essaouira is a good holiday destination. Some of the top attractions to put on your itinerary? Check out Mellah and Bordj el Berod during your Essaouira holiday.
How to find the best Essaouira package deals?
Landing a cheap Essaouira package deal is a breeze with Expedia. Once you've entered your travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab, set your budget, add a few filters and browse what's available. You can tweak your search by "Amenities," "Property type," "Popular locations" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to discover the most affordable Essaouira package deals. Want a simple trick to score the biggest savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider travelling on a weekday, when prices are often lower.
Is it cheaper to book an Essaouira holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more money in your pocket. Bundle your flight, car rental and hotel into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll generally snag a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still have the freedom to create a personalised Essaouira holiday by choosing your preferred accommodation type, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Essaouira?
Score incredible discounts by booking your flights in advance with Expedia. If spontaneity is more your thing, grab one of our last-minute deals for a spur-of-the-moment Essaouira trip.
How to plan a trip to Essaouira?
- Pick the ideal time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you like can all impact your decision on when to visit Essaouira.
- Set a budget: Consider costs such as food, flights and transportation when calculating how much to set aside for your trip to Essaouira. Then, select a property that works with your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly stay or a lavish getaway.
- Set the duration of your trip: Start by making a list of all the attractions and activities you want to experience in Essaouira. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, including any travel time.
- Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your hotels, flights, car rental and more into a customised Essaouira holiday package.