Essaouira
Morocco's windswept Atlantic coast city is a UNESCO-listed Portuguese-Moroccan medina of whitewashed walls, blue fishing boats, and 18th-century ramparts above crashing Atlantic surf. Essaouira is the wind surfing and kite surfing capital of Africa, the filming location of Game of Thrones (Astapor), and the most relaxed and least hassled city in Morocco — with Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens both having been enchanted by it in the 1960s.
Budget Breakdown by Tier
All prices are estimates for one person. Double for couples (hotels are often the same price for 1–2 guests).
Budget Smart
Budget riads, port seafood, medina walks, beach, free ramparts
Business Class
L'Heure Bleue or similar, windsurfing lessons, argan oil tour, seafood restaurant
Luxury
Sofitel Mogador, thalassotherapy spa, private Gnaoua music session, camel beach ride
Top Experiences
Where to Stay
Riad El Medina Essaouira
What guests say
“Beautiful riad in the medina at a very reasonable price. The rooftop with sea views is extraordinary and the owner is wonderfully helpful.”
“The most beautiful budget riad in Essaouira. Very clean, lovely courtyard, and an excellent location for the medina and the ramparts.”
L'Heure Bleue Palais Essaouira
What guests say
“The finest hotel in Essaouira — a beautifully restored 18th-century palace with a heated pool, hammam, and exceptional food. The rooftop Atlantic views are extraordinary.”
“L'Heure Bleue is Morocco at its most refined. The architecture, the food, and the rooftop pool with Atlantic views are all magnificent.”
Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Beach Resort
What guests say
“The finest beach resort in Atlantic Morocco — spa, beach, pool and medina access in one. The thalassotherapy spa using Atlantic seawater is extraordinary.”
“Excellent Sofitel resort with private beach and the finest pool in Essaouira. The balance of beach resort and medina access is perfectly achieved.”
Getting There
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Tours & Activities
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Get a Quote →Local Insider Tips
- ✓Essaouira is much more relaxed than Marrakech — the medina hassle is minimal by comparison
- ✓The port fish grills charge you the price of the fish (cheap) plus a small cooking fee — the total is very reasonable
- ✓The wind is constant and strong — bring a jacket even in summer for the medina walk
- ✓Gnaoua and World Music Festival in June fills the town completely — book months ahead
- ✓Argan oil cooperatives in the area are genuine and the oil is exceptional quality — buy some to take home
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