Essaouira
Easy, breezy Essaouira makes the perfect seaside escape. Its laid-back vibe, artsy atmosphere and sweep of golden sand have long attracted artists and musicians; there is a thriving local arts scene and lively music festivals throughout the year. Omnipresent wind gusts and consistent rollers mean that it attracts plenty of kitesurfers in spring and summer, and surfers over autumn and winter, although water sports are a draw year-round for beginners. Plan your trip to Essaouira with our travel inspiration, top attractions and expert tips.
Shutterstock / Ruslan Kalnitsky
- Hanane Zahrouni|Nov 4, 2025A guide to Essaouira and Morocco’s Atlantic coast
- Sally Kirby|Jul 12, 2023A Total Trip: a three-day high/low getaway to Essaouira, Morocco
- Sarah Gilbert|Nov 28, 2017Shopping in Essaouira: where to buy what
- Sarah Gilbert|Aug 25, 2017Essaouira on a budget: what to see and where to stay
Meet Morocco: 10 Days in Marrakesh, Essaouira, the Atlas Mountains, and the Agafay Desert
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Meet Morocco: 10 Days in Marrakesh, Essaouira, the Atlas Mountains, and the Agafay Desert
highlights
- 1 Riding a camel through the Agafay Desert dunes at sunset
- 2 Getting lost in the labyrinthine streets of the Old Medina during a guided Marrakesh walking tour
- 3 Cooking traditional cuisine in a Berber village with a local resident
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Top places to visit in Essaouira
Discover the best attractions in Essaouira from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
Travel Guides
Essaouira travel tips from Lonely Planet experts
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Money and Costs
Prices in Morocco have risen along with its popularity, but there are still bargains to be had. In the relaxed seaside city of Essaouira, many of the…
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