While Marrakech grabs headlines and front pages, Essaouira seduces with an enigmatic and discreet aura. And indeed, although Orson Welles already revealed its beauty to the world decades ago, there are still travelers who tend to pronounce its four syllables with a final question mark. But not only its existence surprises: “More than one day?” these are the questions asked by those who have already crossed off the 10-hour excursion from their list.
Yes, the wind city has history and plenty of reasons to stay for at least one night. Far from the frenzy typical of other Moroccan cities, here life beats at its own pace: locals and tourists stroll slowly along the port and the medina, while on the terraces a spread of grilled fish, tagines, msemen and mint tea takes care of recharging energy at any hour of the day.
The heart of Essaouira is a blend of streets where only the murmur of the sea can be heard and others that vibrate to the beat of the gambri and the kora. On occasion, the wind carries the sand to form small improvised dunes on its cobbled floors, a constant reminder of the close bond between the city and the ocean. That said, beyond the strong gusts, its friendly climate—mild year-round— seems another good reason to revere this coastal corner.
Serenity, Atlantic light, authenticity and a salty breeze. Therein lies Essaouira’s charm: in the seagulls crossing the sky, in the boats resting opposite the Sqala du Port, in the stalls of snail soup (babbouche) along the seafront on weekends, in the craft shops of the souk, on the clandestine rooftops, in gnawa music concerts, and, above all, in that ability to make any visitor think that perhaps Marrakech can wait a little longer… Here are 10 reasons to plan a trip to Essaouira.
