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Travel Guide Essaouira

essouira
  • Morocco
  • Essaouira
  • 90 km²
  • 44000
  • Dirham
  • AR/BER
  • 69.493
  • "The city of Essaouira also has beautiful beaches as one of their main tourist attractions. This spot would be a great chance for you to meet the locals as they also love to spend their time on the beach as well."

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    Said

General Information About Essaouira

If you are looking for a great alternative to your European travel that will not drain your budget, then you should shift your focus to the Moroccan Tour. You can discover plenty of different places in this country yet the cost of your travel will not be a big burden to your budget plan. This country is not only popular for its Casablanca or Rabat, obviously, but there are also many other fascinating places in Morocco worth visiting. If you look for the kind of Moroccan tourist site that is pretty identical to the sea, fishing, and flourishing art culture, then you must head to Essaouira. It has become a favorite tourist spot for many European travelers. Thanks to the fortified walls built in the 18th century, every visitor is more likely to get the impression of a quaint French Village. You can find the soul of Morocco as soon as you enter the walls and walk through the narrow winding streets in Essaouira.

It is no secret that Essaouira is not the main destination in the country, that is why this place is still pretty humble and authentic compared to other more popular tourist sites like Casablanca or Agadir. Little that you know, it has turned out to be a unique charm of Essaouira that has attracted plenty of visitors over the last few years. If you happen to visit the city Essaouira, make sure that you do not miss the Medina. Unlike any other Moroccan tourist site, the Medina of Essaouira is home to the whitewashed houses with a Mediterranean look. If you look for the right place to get the best and most unique souvenirs for your loved ones, the city of Essaouira also has its local market or souk. You can easily find plenty of local items like Berber rugs, beautiful ceramics, or even saffron, a very traditional spice that you can only find in this place.

You might wonder about the medieval Portuguese style and look that you can find almost in every corner of the city, the fact is that the city of Essaouira was actually designed by a Frenchman. There are many ways you can do to get the most out of your visit to this Moroccan city. One of the best ways for you to explore the city of Essaouira is to visit the bustling fishing harbor. Make sure that you visit this place in the morning so that you can see the locals' activities in person. You are more likely to have a wonderful glimpse at the daily routine of the local people. It is the right moment to see the local fishermen returning from the sea and sorting out their fresh catch. If you love to dine and have your favorite seafood, the fishing harbor would be the best place for you to visit. More importantly, making transactions in the local harbor is more likely to be a lot cheaper.

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Essaouira Culture and History

Morocco has an array of tourist destinations that attract millions of people to visit the country every year. Casablanca and Rabat are obviously categorized as the largest cities in the country that are filled with many different and fascinating tourist sites. However, the charm and attraction of Morocco do not only come from the big cities, there are other smaller towns in the country that offers a unique experience to every visitor. Let us take Essaouira for example. If you just look below Casablanca on the Moroccan map, you will find a small town named Essaouira. This place has become a very popular beach destination in the country. Let us have a quick look at the history and the culture of Essaouira to make your visit more enjoyable.

The City of Essaouira and Its History

Once you walk into this small town, you will be warmly welcomed by the French design of the city. Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah has decided to leave the design of this city to the hand of a French architect named Theodore Cornut. As the result, you can now feast your eyes on the brilliant blue colors on the doors in Essaouira. In fact, the blue colors on the doors have become one of the main attractions of this small town.

Essaouira Morocco is home to beautiful beaches that have attracted so many tourists every year. The natives of Morocco have made Essaouira one of their favorite beach destinations. In the 1970s, the beach in Essaouira turned out to be a very popular beach destination for many international tourists, especially hipsters. Since then, the city of Essaouira has been visited by many popular figures from all over the world. Even Jimi Hendrix found this place very amusing. Do not be too surprised to see the pictures of Jimi Hendrix in a large number of local bars and hotels in this region.

The Cultural Attractions of Essaouira

Morocco is a North African country that has been very famous for its various tourist attractions and cultural beats. Thus, you shall find almost every city in Morocco is filled with cultural attractions. The beautiful and relaxing beaches are not the only attraction in the city of Essaouira. This small town also has a flourishing art culture. Little that you know, the city of Essaouira has become a comfortable home to many artists as they are captivated with what the town has to offer. One of the famous artists that have taken residence in this city is Boujemaa Lakhdar, a famous sculptor who has found this city so inspiring that he managed to build a museum in the 1950s.

If you like to see the heartbeat of the local people, you should come to the fishing harbor in this small town. This is where you can see the local fishermen returning from the sea with all their fresh catch. Not only that you can see how they make the transactions, but it would also be the best place for you to taste the freshest seafood dishes.

casablanca by night

Essaouira Nightlife

As the sun dips below the horizon, Essaouira's nightlife comes alive, offering a delightful array of experiences for nocturnal adventurers. Here's your guide to unwinding in the enchanting coastal vibes of Essaouira after dark.

Evening Stroll in the Medina:

Begin your evening with a leisurely stroll through Essaouira's historic Medina. Admire the golden hues of the sunset casting a warm glow over the ancient ramparts and labyrinthine alleyways. Explore artisan workshops, boutique shops, and vibrant street markets, where the air is filled with the scent of spices and the echoes of traditional music.

Dine on Fresh Seafood at a Beachfront Restaurant:

Indulge in a culinary adventure at one of Essaouira's seaside restaurants, renowned for their delectable seafood offerings. Feast on freshly caught fish, grilled to perfection and served with an array of savory Moroccan sides. The rhythmic crash of waves provides a soothing soundtrack as you savor each bite against the backdrop of the moonlit sea.

Sip Mint Tea at a Rooftop Café:

Escape the bustle of the streets and ascend to one of Essaouira's rooftop cafes, offering panoramic views of the Medina and the Atlantic Ocean. Relax amidst plush cushions and colorful lanterns as you sip on traditional Moroccan mint tea. Engage in lively conversations with fellow travelers or simply lose yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the night sky.

Experience Gnaoua Music Performances:

Immerse yourself in the hypnotic rhythms of Gnaoua music, a centuries-old tradition originating from West Africa. Throughout Essaouira, intimate venues host live performances featuring skilled musicians playing traditional instruments such as the guembri and krakeb. Feel the pulsating beat reverberate through your soul as you surrender to the spellbinding melodies of Gnaoua.

Artisanal Craft Shopping in the Souks:

Delve into Essaouira's thriving arts and crafts scene by exploring the colorful souks that come alive after dark. Browse an eclectic array of handcrafted treasures, including intricate woodwork, vibrant textiles, and unique jewelry. Engage with local artisans, who are eager to share the stories behind their creations and offer personalized souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

Savor Sunset Cocktails at a Beach Bar:

Toast to the beauty of Essaouira's coastline with sunset cocktails at a beachfront bar. Sink your toes into the soft sand and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of vivid hues. Sip on refreshing drinks infused with local flavors while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore.

Dance Under the Stars at a Live Music Venue:

Let your hair down and groove to the eclectic beats of live music at one of Essaouira's intimate venues. From jazz and blues to fusion and reggae, the city's music scene offers something for every taste. Join locals and fellow travelers on the dance floor, where the spirit of camaraderie and celebration knows no bounds. Experience the magic of Essaouira's nightlife, where every moment is infused with the enchanting allure of the coastal breeze and the vibrant energy of the city. Whether you're savoring seafood by the sea or dancing under the stars to soul-stirring melodies, Essaouira invites you to unwind and embrace the rhythm of the night.