Best things to do in Essaouira

Essaouira Unmissables

Essaouira is a historic port city defined by its 18th-century ramparts and UNESCO-listed medina. This collection features the Skala Du Port and Skala De La Ville, which showcase Portuguese-influenced military architecture and bronze cannons. The city’s commercial life centers on Souk Jedid and the bustling fish market near the harbor. Cultural landmarks include the historic Jewish Cemetery and monumental gates like Bab Doukkala and Bab Marrakech, while the Ensemble Artisanal offers a look at traditional thuya woodwork.

Essaouira Unmissables — Map

Per Honor et Gloria / Public domain

A

Skala Du Port

An 18th-century defensive bastion guarding the harbor entrance. It features a circular tower and provides views of the Mogador Islands and the local fishing fleet.

B

Skala De La Ville

Seafront ramparts built in the 1760s by French architect Théodore Cornut. The stone platform is lined with a collection of 18th-century Spanish bronze cannons.

Konuzelmann Thomas / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Essaouira Beach

This bay is especially popular with surfers and other water sports enthusiasts. Lively urban beach awarded with Blue Flag.

D

Ensemble Artisanal

A cooperative showcasing local handicrafts, specifically focused on Essaouira’s traditional thuya wood carving, silver jewelry, and weaving.

Elgaard / CC BY-SA 4.0

E

Souk Jedid swq jdyd

The medina's central market hub, divided into specialized sections for spices, textiles, and household goods at the intersection of the main thoroughfares.

F

Gare Supratours

The primary bus terminal for Supratours services, located conveniently just outside the medina walls near Bab Marrakech.

G

Bab Doukkala

A monumental 18th-century stone gate that serves as the northern entrance to the medina.

Julia Erpunkt / CC-BY-SA

H

Fishery

A bustling daily market where the local fleet lands its catch. It features rows of stalls and nearby open-air grills for immediate preparation.

World Imaging / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

Jewish Cemetery

Located outside the city walls, this historic site contains hundreds of white stone tombs and the mausoleum of Rabbi Haim Pinto.

J

Bab Marrakech bab mraksh

A massive circular bastion and gate built in the 18th century, serving as a main entrance to the southern part of the medina.