How to Take the Ultimate Trip to Essaouira, Morocco's Windy City

After the heat and bustle of Marrakech, Essaouira feels like a breath of fresh sea air. This walled port on Morocco's Atlantic coast has a relaxed, artistic atmosphere, a UNESCO-listed medina, blue fishing boats, grilled sardines and some of the best wind in Africa for kitesurfing. Here's how to make the most of your trip.

Essaouira at a glance

• Where: Morocco's Atlantic coast, about three hours west of Marrakech.
• Nickname: the "Wind City of Africa".
• Best for: relaxing, art and music lovers, kitesurfers and windsurfers.
• How long: two to three nights.
• Best time: spring and autumn for mild weather; summer is windy and cool.

Things to do

1. Explore the medina

Essaouira's 18th-century medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was laid out by a French architect for the sultan, so its streets are wider and easier to navigate than in Fez or Marrakech. Browse spice shops, art galleries and workshops of thuya wood – a fragrant local wood used for boxes and carvings.

2. Walk the ramparts

The Skala de la Ville, sea walls lined with old bronze cannons, offer superb views of the waves crashing below – especially at sunset. The ramparts appeared as the city of Astapor in Game of Thrones.

3. The fishing port

Every morning, fishermen unload their catch from the famous blue boats as gulls circle overhead. Choose your fish at the grill stalls near the port and have it cooked on the spot – sardines, sea bream and prawns are local favourites.

4. The beach and water sports

The wide sandy beach curves south from the town. The wind makes Essaouira one of Africa's top spots for kitesurfing and windsurfing – schools offer lessons for beginners. Calmer activities include horse and camel rides along the sand.

5. Music and festivals

Essaouira has strong links to Gnaoua music, a spiritual musical tradition with West African roots. The Gnaoua World Music Festival, usually in June, fills the town with concerts.

Around Essaouira

6. Argan cooperatives

The surrounding countryside is argan country. Visit a women's cooperative where argan oil is produced by hand for cooking and cosmetics – and you may see goats climbing argan trees along the road.

7. Sidi Kaouki and Moulay Bouzerktoun

These small coastal villages south and north of Essaouira are popular with surfers and kitesurfers looking for quieter beaches.

Getting there

8. From Marrakech

Buses and shared taxis connect Marrakech and Essaouira in about three hours, and many tours offer day trips. Essaouira–Mogador Airport has limited flights. See our Marrakech guide and 10 experiences in Morocco you shouldn't miss.

Tips

• Pack a jacket: even in summer, the wind can make evenings cool.
• Stay in a riad in the medina for atmosphere.
• Bargain politely in the souks.
• Dress modestly away from the beach.