Essaouira Holidays

A beautiful amalgamation of cultures, wrapped in the charm of the past and teeming with modern excitement, Essaouira is the jewel of the Moroccan coast. Once known as Mogador, the city offers the mystique of medieval medinas and the thrill of excellent watersports.

Extending an invitation to history buffs, culture enthusiasts, beach lovers, and food connoisseurs, Essaouira promises an unforgettable getaway. From rich history, bustling markets, serene beaches and delightfully untamed atmospheres, your search for a holistic vacation ends here.

Our Top Flight + Hotel Deals

Loading Hotels with Flights

Things to See and Do

Essaouira beckons with a rich tapestry of experiences, promising to engage every kind of traveller. Astounding historical sites, vibrant local culture and exhilarating activities nestle within the city's embrace, ensuring a visit that is not just rich but also varied. Here are the city’s top attractions to get you started.

Medina of Essaouira

Step back in time at the Medina of Essaouira: The beautiful, bustling Medina of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a vibrant, immersive experience. Its meticulously designed streets, which offer a tranquil escape from the larger cities, encapsulate the city's rich culture and history.

Peaceful Harbor

Escape to the Peaceful Harbor: Protected by the Island of Mogador, the Essaouira bay remains sheltered from the strong marine winds, creating an atmospheric and peaceful harbour. It's a great spot for relaxation while soaking in the immense beauty of the Atlantic coast.

Place Moulay Hassan

Experience the Square at Place Moulay Hassan: Lying between the port and the entrance to the Medina, the enchanting Place Moulay Hassan square offers a delightful respite. The square promises to charm with its lively cafes and restaurants, along with breath-taking sea views.

Windsurfing in Essaouira

Take part in Windsurfing: The powerful coastal winds lend themselves well to a fantastic windsurfing experience. Head to the beach to indulge in this exciting activity, renowned here amongst sports enthusiasts.

L'Horloge d'Essaouira

Unwind at L'Horloge d'Essaouira: For the perfect culmination to your day, unwind at the family-friendly L'Horloge d'Essaouira. With comfortable rooms, a relaxing pool, and delightful dining options, the hotel offers an exceptional retreat for the whole family.

Food and Drink

Morocco's culinary delights are things of legend and Essaouira is no different. Brimming with diverse food options and unique, mouthwatering dishes, the city presents a fascinating flavor palate awaiting your discovery.

Taste the Fresh Seafood

As a vibrant port city, Essaouira excels at offering the finest, freshest seafood. Look out for local favourites to savour the essence of coastal Morocco.

Indulge in Traditional Moroccan Tajine

A staple Moroccan dish, Tajine is a must-try. This slow-cooked savoury stew, prepared with succulent meat and aromatic herbs, offers a taste of the country's rich culinary heritage.

Sip on The Sweet Moroccan Tea

The traditional beverage of the city, Moroccan Tea is a quintessential part of the Essaouira experience. Fragrant with fresh mint, it offers a moment of tranquility after an exciting day of exploration.

Sample the Moroccan Pastries

For those with a sweet tooth, the local pastries are a dream come true. Reserve a special place for the delights like Gazelle Horns and Almond Briouats on your foodie checklist.

Relax with a Rooftop Dinner

For the perfect culmination to your day, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local rooftop restaurant. This offers not only tantalising dishes but also breath-taking views of the city's skyline.

Destination Essentials

With Essaouira’s mild climate, there’s hardly a bad time to visit. However, if you're looking for the perfect blend of warm sunshine, fewer tourists, and vibrant local festivals, plan your trip between April and October. July offers the longest days with maximum sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

Avoid travelling in November due to the higher risk of rain. Regardless of when you visit, remember to pack light clothing for the day and a light jumper or hoodie for cooler evenings. No matter when you visit, the allure and charm of Essaouira provides a captivating experience for every traveller.

More Destinations

Travel more with LycaFly