Just a 2.5-hour drive west of Marrakech, you’ll find Essaouira, one of Morocco’s most captivating coastal fishing towns. Nestled on the Atlantic coastline and surrounded by a sweeping sandy bay and rugged cliffs with offshore islands, this city exudes a charm that’s hard to resist. The fortified town, with its myriad of seaside activities, offers an ideal exploration ground for visitors new to Morocco.
Essaouira is blessed with a delightful climate — cool sea breezes in summer provide a perfect setting for water sports, while the mild lowland air in winter offers comforting warmth. This favourable weather, coupled with the town’s alluring Portuguese architecture, has been a magnet for artists and poets over the years. Despite this influx, Essaouira remains a traditional fishing port at its core.
This tranquil town makes for a perfect day trip destination away from Marrakech’s bustling scene. It boasts a wide array of attractions such as the bustling Place Moulay El Hassan, the defensive Skala fortress, the vibrant harbour, the impressive ramparts, and the historic Jewish district, known as “Derb Lealouj”.
