Essaouira, Morocco’s enchanting coastal gem, often captivates visitors with its bohemian vibe, historic ramparts, and a constant, refreshing Atlantic breeze. While the city offers plenty of tempting excursions and delicious culinary delights, exploring its unique charm doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, we found many free things to do in Essaouira that meant some of the most memorable experiences come completely free of charge.
Known as the ‘Windy City’, Essaouira invites you to wander, observe, and immerse yourself in its distinctive atmosphere. From vibrant markets to the beaches and bustling port scenes, you can easily spend days soaking up its beauty without spending a single dirham.
Here are 10 absolutely free things to do in Essaouira, allowing you to unlock the soul of this captivating city without touching your wallet.
Why Essaouira?
Over the many months that we spent travelling in Morocco we visited Essaouira five separate times! It is the kind of place that, despite exploring many cool things to do in Essaouira, I already know I’ll love to go back again.
There is a lot to see and do, a lot to taste and loads of free things to do in Essaouira that are just part of the incredible vibe of Morocco.
9 Free Things To Do in Essaouira
Read on and find out what and why we recommend that you do in Essaouira. 🙂
1. Get Lost (and Found) in the Essaouira Medina
The beating heart of Essaouira is its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Medina. Enclosed within ancient, ochre-coloured walls, this labyrinthine old city is a pedestrian paradise, brimming with character, history, and endless photo opportunities.
It is exactly as you picture the historic Game of Thrones style Medina to be in Morocco!
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- Wander without purpose: The best way to experience the Medina is to simply let yourself get lost. There’s no need for a map; every winding alley reveals something new – a hidden artisan workshop, a vibrant street art mural, or a quiet riad courtyard.
- Architectural marvels: Admire the whitewashed buildings with their distinctive blue accents, a nod to Essaouira’s fishing heritage and a striking contrast against the often-grey skies. Look up to see intricately carved wooden balconies and doorways.
- Sensory overload (in the best way): Breathe in the scents of spices, leather, thuya wood, and the sea. Listen to the call to prayer, the chatter of vendors, and the distant cries of seagulls. Watch local life unfold – artisans at work, children playing, and women bargaining for groceries. It’s epic!
- People watching: Grab a bench or lean against a wall and simply observe. The Medina is a living, breathing museum of Moroccan life.
Allow yourself at least a few hours, if not an entire day, to simply roam.
2. Stroll Along the Essaouira Ramparts (Skala de la Ville & Skala du Port)
The majestic ramparts that encircle Essaouira are perhaps its most iconic feature, offering breathtaking views and a tangible connection to its storied past.
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- Skala de la Ville: Ascend to the top of these fortifications that once defended the city. Walk along the broad battlements, feeling the wind whip around you, and marvel at the rows of ancient brass cannons pointing out towards the Atlantic. The panoramic views of the ocean, the fishing boats, and the sprawling Medina below are simply spectacular, especially at sunset.
- Skala du Port: Head towards the bustling port, and you’ll find another set of ramparts. This section offers incredible views over the working fishing harbour, teeming with colourful blue boats and bustling activity.
- History at your fingertips: Imagine pirates, Portuguese invaders, and local defenders pacing these very same stones. The ramparts are a powerful reminder of Essaouira’s strategic importance throughout history.
Plus – these imposing walls provide some of the best vantage points for photography in Essaouira, capturing both the natural beauty of the coast and the unique architecture of the city.
3. Essaouira Port
Essaouira’s vibrant fishing port is a riot of colour, sound, and activity that offers a raw, authentic glimpse into the city’s primary industry.
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- All of the Blue: Watch the iconic blue fishing boats bobbing in the harbour, their nets piled high, waiting to be cast or repaired.
- The daily catch: In the mornings, you can witness the flurry of activity as fishermen return with their haul, offloading mountains of fish and preparing for the lively fish auction. Even if you don’t buy, observing the energy is fascinating.
- Seagulls galore: The port is a haven for hundreds, if not thousands, of seagulls(!).
- Authentic scenes: This is where you see Essaouira’s working heart. Observe the fishermen mending nets, negotiating prices, and preparing their boats for the next venture. It’s a photographer’s dream and a cultural immersion all in one.
Be mindful of the working environment – watch your step, and be aware of slippery surfaces and busy workers.
The smells can be intense, but it’s all part of the unvarnished charm, right?
Planning Travel to Morocco During Ramadan? Read all about it.
4. Essaouira Beach
Just outside the Medina walls, Essaouira’s expansive sandy beach stretches for kilometres, offering a refreshing escape from the city’s buzz.
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- Sunbathing and relaxation: Find your perfect spot on the golden sand and soak up the sun. The constant breeze makes it surprisingly pleasant, even on hot days. Though do remember to check your location for sunbathing too skimpy…
- Windsurfing and kitesurfing: Essaouira is world-renowned for its wind. While taking lessons costs money, watching the dozens of colourful kitesurfers and windsurfers glide across the waves is a captivating free show.
- Beach walks: Take a long, invigorating stroll along the shoreline. Head south for miles and enjoy the feeling of sand between your toes and the sound of crashing waves.
- Camel and horse watching: You’ll often see camels and horses being led along the beach, waiting for tourists to take a paid ride. Even if you don’t partake, their presence adds to the exotic atmosphere.
The beach is a lively spot, often filled with local families, football games, and plenty of space to unwind.
5. Explore the Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
Hidden within the Essaouira Medina is the Mellah, the city’s historic Jewish Quarter. Once a thriving community, it now stands as a poignant reminder of Essaouira’s multicultural past.
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- Historical Significance: Essaouira (formerly Mogador) had a significant Jewish population, acting as key traders and royal advisors. The Mellah reflects this rich history.
- Unique Architecture: The buildings here often have distinct architectural features, sometimes with larger windows or specific decorative elements that set them apart from the surrounding Muslim quarters.
- The Quiet: The Mellah is noticeably quieter and more dilapidated in parts than the bustling commercial areas of the Medina.
- Synagogues (from the outside): While many synagogues are no longer active, you can still spot their distinctive doorways and exteriors, such as the Slat Lkahal synagogue, from the street.
Wandering through the Mellah offers a deeper understanding of Essaouira’s diverse heritage and its long history of religious tolerance.
6. Discover the Artisan Workshops
Essaouira is a hub for skilled artisans, and many of their workshops are open to the public, allowing you to observe their craft without any obligation to buy.
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- Thuya wood carvers: Essaouira is famous for its thuya wood, a fragrant and beautiful wood found only in this region. Watch master craftsmen meticulously carve intricate patterns into boxes, furniture, and decorative items. The smell of the wood alone is an experience!
- Leatherworkers: See artisans treating and shaping leather into bags, shoes, and other goods.
- Painters and artists: Essaouira has long attracted artists. You’ll find many small galleries and workshops where you can observe painters at work, often inspired by the city’s vibrant colours and seascapes.
It’s fascinating to see the raw materials transform into finished products, highlighting the dedication and skill passed down through generations.
- Tip: Many workshops are tucked away in the smaller alleys of the Medina. A polite “Salam alaikum” is always appreciated as you observe.
7. The Essaouira Blue Boats
While the port offers a wider view, simply sitting or standing near the waterfront, specifically where the blue boats are docked, provides a unique, free spectacle.
These are the most famous of photography and free things to do in Essaouira!
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- Iconic photography: The vivid blue of the boats against the white city walls and the Atlantic ocean is one of Essaouira’s most enduring images. It’s an essential photo op!
- Local interactions: Watch the fishermen go about their daily routines – repairing nets by hand, painting their boats, or simply chatting. It’s a slice of local life unchanged for decades.
This area truly encapsulates the spirit of Essaouira as a bustling fishing town.
8. Enjoy the Sunset from the Ramparts
Essaouira sunsets are legendary, with hues of orange, pink, and purple over the vast Atlantic. And the best part? They are absolutely free.
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- Skala de la Ville: This is arguably the most popular spot. Find a perch on the ancient cannons or a stone ledge, and watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the city and the ocean.
- Essaouira Beach: For a more expansive view, head to the beach. Walk along the water’s edge as the sun disappears, creating dramatic silhouettes of kitesurfers and camel riders.
- Place Moulay Hassan: While often bustling, the square itself offers glimpses of the changing sky, framed by the white buildings.
Grab a comfortable spot about 30 minutes before official sunset time to secure the best view and simply bask in the natural beauty.
9. Place Moulay Hassan
People-watching in any new place is a highlight. But this is one of the most centring free things to do in Essaouira and get a feel for this historic and bustling port city. This large, open square – Place Moulay Hassan – acts as a gateway between the Medina and the port, and it’s a constant hub of activity, offering endless people-watching opportunities.
Why it’s free and fantastic:
- The pulse of Essaouira: This square is where locals and tourists alike converge. It’s a great spot to feel the city’s pulse.
- Street performers: You might encounter local musicians, storytellers, or snake charmers (though be aware they often expect a tip if you take photos).
- People watching paradise: Grab a bench and simply observe the fascinating tapestry of life – families strolling, vendors selling nuts or pastries, children playing football, and tourists soaking it all in.
- The Backdrop: Admire the grand colonial-era buildings that frame the square, contrasting with the ancient Medina walls.
While the surrounding cafes require a purchase, the square itself is a lively, free amphitheatre of Essaouira life. We love People Watching!
Getting To Essaouira
Essaouira is well connected domestically and internationally.
By Air
Essaouira has its own small airport (ESU) with direct flights from London, Paris, and Brussels.
Other nearby airports include Agadir (AGA) (135.8 km) and Marrakech (RAK) (165.5 km).
By Bus
The Supratours bus from Marrakech is the gold standard. It takes about 3 hours, is air-conditioned, and is very reliable.
By Road
If you have a rental car or motorhome, the drive from Marrakech to Essaouira is straightforward and takes around 3 hours.
Or for around 600–800 MAD, you can hire a private car for a direct door-to-door service from Marrakech.
Getting Around in Essaouira
Inside the Medina, you walk. There are no cars.
If you have heavy luggage, look for the blue luggage carts (chariots); for a small tip (20-30 MAD), they will wheel your bags to your Riad.
Outside the Medina, use the Petit Taxis (small blue cars). They have a flat rate for trips within the city.
Though the downside of these small cars is that they can only take three passengers! Not ideal for a family of four. We have to get a Grand Taxi if we aren’t driving.
Accommodation in Essaouira
Essaouira has everything from traditional Riads to backpacker hostels, hotels and AirBnB’s.
If you haven’t yet stayed in a Riad in Morocco this is a great place to do it.
Granny came to meet us in Essaouira and we all stayed at Riad Dar Rhamna. It turned out to be a good budget Riad option close to everything.
Budget Riads in Essaouira
Mid-Range & Luxury Riads in Essaouira
Enjoy Free Things To Do in Essaouira
Essaouira truly embodies the spirit of travel that doesn’t demand a hefty budget. There are plenty of cool and unique free things to do in Essaouira. Its charm lies in its atmosphere, its history, and its vibrant everyday life, all of which are freely accessible to anyone willing to explore.
So pack your walking shoes, open your senses, and prepare to be enchanted by the Windy City without spending a dirham! 🙂
Travel Planning for Morocco & Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before embarking on all the great free things to do in Essaouira!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
