Direction: What to do in Essaouira in 2 or 3 Days?
Welcome to essaouira-airport.com, your independent guide to prepare an unforgettable stay in the city of Alizés. Whether you're arriving by the airport Essaouira-Mogador (ESU) or by road, this guide offers an optimized route to discover the essentials of Essaouira in 2 or 3 days. We have selected for you the essentials, the right addresses and the practical tips, using our network of local partners (accommodations, restaurants, activities). Follow the guide!
Start with a walk through the streets of the Medina d'Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike Marrakech, the souks are peaceful and less soliciting. Here you will find local handicrafts: silver jewellery, Thuya marquetry, carpets, pottery and d-argan oil. Take time to negotiate with ease.
Midi: Lunch facing the sea Head to the port for a grilled fish lunch. Small stalls at the fishing port offer sardine, daurades or squid trays, cooked by barbecue, for a budget of 50 to 100 MAD per person. For a more comfortable experience, our partner directory references several restaurants with ocean views. Afternoon: Les Remparts and La Sqala In the afternoon, climb onto the Sqala remparts (entry: approximately 10 MAD). The panoramic view of the Atlantic and Purpurary Islands is breathtaking. It is also the ideal place to photograph bronze cannons and colorful fishing boats. Back down, explore the Place Moulay Hassan, the city's beating heart, with its cafes and musicians Gnaouas. Evening: Dinner and Music Gnaoua End the day with dinner in a traditional riad. Taste Moroccan specialties such as pastilla chicken or tajine kefta. If you're lucky, you'll run into a Gnaoua music session in a medina café. For a more lively evening, the beach area offers a few lounge bars.Matin: Surfing or Horse Riding Course
Essaouira is known for its surf spots. The beach of Essaouira (5 minutes walk from the centre) is perfect for beginners. You can rent equipment (board and combination) for 100 to 300 MAD/day from the many surf shops partners. If you prefer to stay on the sand, choose a horse ride or a dromedary ride at sunset (count about 200-400 MAD for 1h30). Midi: Discovery of Argan OilBefore lunch, visit a women's cooperative oil dsargan (several are located outside the city, accessible by taxi). You will see the artisanal process and will be able to buy cosmetic or culinary oil at fair prices. Lunch can be done on site or back in town.
Afternoon: Marquetry Workshop or Art Gallery In the afternoon, dive into local crafts. Several "strong" marquetry workshops in Thuya (smelling wood) open their doors to visitors. You can observe artisans and even participate in a workshop (duration: 1h to 2h, indicative rate: 150-250 MAD). Art lovers will enjoy contemporary galleries in the Medina district, such as the Damgaard Art Gallery. Evening: Sunset on the Beach For a magical moment, go to the beach at sunset. The flamboyant colors on the ocean are unforgettable. Then dine in a seafood restaurant near the harbour, or book a table in a riad with a panoramic terrace.For a quieter experience, embark on a short boat trip around the Purpurary Islands (accessible only by boat, no landing allowed). You will observe the seabirds and historical remains. Departures are made from the port of Essaouira. Count about 150-250 MAD per person for a ride of 1h30.
Return and Latest Employees
Before you leave Essaouira, don't forget to make your last purchases: d For your return flight, plan to leave the city 2h30 before take-off (travel to the airport takes 20-30 minutes).Comparative Table: Activities and Indicative Budget
Here is a summary table of the main activities with an indicative price range (in MAD, 2026). Rates may vary by season and claimant.
| Activity | Duration | Indicative budget (MAD) | Council
|---|---|---|
| 2-3h | Free (plus purchases)Always negotiate prices | |
| 1h | 10 MAD (entry) | Provide good shoes |
| Lunch grilled fish in port | 1h | 50-100 MAD/pers. | Choose a busy shop
| Surf rental (board + combination) | 1 day | 100-300 MAD | Book via a site partner
| 1h30 | 200-400 MAD | Ideal at sunset|
| Thuya Branding Workshop | 1-2h | 150-250 MAD | Workshops in the Medina
| 300-500 MAD | Provide water and sunscreen | |
| 1h30 | 150-250 MAD/pers. | Check port times
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Transport from the airport: Taxi is the easiest way. Confirm the price before going up. You can also book a private transfer via our partner directory.
- Accommodation: Prefer a riad in the medina for authenticity, or a hotel on the beach for views. Consult our partners' cards for verified offers. Weather: The wind is almost constant, especially in the summer. Plan a light jacket even in July. Spring and autumn are the best seasons. The Moroccan dirham (MAD). ATMs are numerous in the city. Visa/Mastercards are accepted in hotels and restaurants, but plan cash for souks and small shops. Health: Tap water is not safe. Prefer bottled water. Think about the sunscreen and the hat.
- Customs Compliance: Dress moderately in the medina (covered shoulders and knees). The handshake is the common greeting.
To help you choose, our site essouira-airport.com reference of carefully selected local providers. Each partner has a detailed sheet with photos, services, spoken languages and price range. You can contact them directly via WhatsApp to book. Here are some types of establishments you can find in our directory:
- Riads and guest houses: From traditional charm to modern comfort, with or without sea views.
- Restaurants and cafes: Moroccan cuisine, seafood, pizzeria, or international cuisine.
- Activities: Surf schools, 4x4 excursions, horse rides, tour guides.
- Services: Car rental, airport transfers, reliable taxis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on the Route to Essaouira
What is the best time to visit Essaouira?
Does it have to book its activities in advance?
For popular activities such as surfing, horse riding or excursions, it is highly recommended to book at least 24 hours in advance, especially in high season. You can contact our website partners directly via WhatsApp to ensure your niche.
Can we visit Essaouira without a car ?
Don't go back without tasting: the pastilla with chicken (smoky-salted), the fish tajine, the roasted sardines from the harbour, the friday couscous (in families), and the mint tea with Moroccan pastries.
