A day trip to Essaouira

Posted on February 1st, 2025

Author: Iris

Are you in Marrakech and have a day to spare? Then Essaouira is a perfect destination for a getaway. This charming coastal city is about 170 km away and is about the opposite of Marrakech.

What to do in Essaouira

Wander through the medina and souks
Unlike Marrakech, Essaouira's medina is surprisingly quiet. Here there are no scooters whizzing by, but narrow streets full of artisan stores, colorful market stalls and smells of spices and fresh fish. Wander around and haggle for the best prices.

Enjoy the beach
Essaouira is known for its vast beaches and constant sea breezes, making it a popular spot for surfers and kiteboarders. Whether you enter the water yourself or prefer to watch from the beach, the atmosphere is always lively.

Visit the harbor
Essaouira's iconic port is one of the city's most photogenic spots. Here blue fishing boats lie side by side as fishermen bring in their catch. Just watch out for the seagulls, who are only too happy to take a bite!

The city of cats
Essaouira is not called “the kingdom of cats” for nothing. Everywhere in town you will see cats lazing in the sun or scurrying among the market stalls. A paradise for cat lovers!

Restaurants in Essaouira

For a delicious lunch with a view, visit Salut Maroc. Enjoy fresh fish, tagines and local specialties in an atmospheric setting. We also enjoyed a delicious coffee and cake at Pumpkin. Other recommendations are:

Taros - a rooftop restaurant with stunning views.
La Table by Madada - sophisticated Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes.
Chez Sam - known for its fresh seafood dishes in a casual atmosphere.
Umia - a small and stylish restaurant with creative dishes.
Mandala Society - a nice place for vegetarian and healthy options.

Practical tips

The drive from Marrakech to Essaouira takes about 2.5 hours one way. We booked an organized day trip through GetYourGuide. We were picked up by van and had mostly free time in Essaouira to get to know the town independently.
Bring a light jacket or cardigan in spring and fall: the sea breeze can make it feel cooler here than in Marrakech.
Try to plan a visit in the morning so you can explore the city at your leisure before the afternoon rush begins.

Essaouira is a city with a unique atmosphere, a mix of Moroccan tradition and laid-back coastal life. An ideal destination for a day trip from Marrakech!