Discover Essaouira 2026

At the blue-and-white painted harbor, fishing boats dock daily with fresh catch, while simple grill stalls right on the quay serve fish grilled to order, accompanied by the cries of hundreds of gulls — a lively piece of Moroccan coastal culture.

The steady trade wind known as the Alizé makes Essaouira one of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in North Africa, with several schools along the wide sandy beach south of the medina offering beginner courses and equipment rental for advanced riders.

The walled old town, planned in the 18th century by a French architect, blends European urban planning with North African architecture, and was recognized by UNESCO in 2001 as an exceptional example of a fortified trading city.

The historic fortress wall with its old bronze cannons offers a spectacular view over the Atlantic and served as a backdrop for numerous film productions, including scenes from the series Game of Thrones, bringing the city additional international fame.

Essaouira-Mogador Airport is about 15 kilometers south of the city and served seasonally from several European cities. From Marrakech, Essaouira is also conveniently reachable by bus in about three hours.

At the blue-and-white painted harbor, fishing boats dock daily with fresh catch, while simple grill stalls right on the quay serve fish grilled to order, accompanied by the cries of hundreds of gulls — a lively piece of Moroccan coastal culture.

The steady trade wind known as the Alizé makes Essaouira one of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in North Africa, with several schools along the wide sandy beach south of the medina offering beginner courses and equipment rental for advanced riders.

The walled old town, planned in the 18th century by a French architect, blends European urban planning with North African architecture, and was recognized by UNESCO in 2001 as an exceptional example of a fortified trading city.