The old Mogador
Essaouira (formerly "Mogador") was built in the 18th century by a French architect hired by Sultan Mohammed III. Hence its geometric, regular layout — unique in Morocco — with straight streets, Portuguese walls and wide squares.
Its medina has been a World Heritage Site since 2001. Far more manageable than those of Marrakech or Fez: small, white-and-blue, with few crowds and no hassle.
What to do
The fishing port
The arrival of the blue boats at midday: seagulls, shouting, live octopus, fresh sardines. You can buy fish on the quay and take it to one of the barbecues in the square to have it grilled on the spot (10-15€).
The beaches
The main one is huge, perfect for a walk but not for swimming: the Atlantic water is cold all year round (15-19°C) and the wind blows hard. That's why it's the kitesurfing and windsurfing capital of Morocco. In spring and summer there are international championships.
The Skala
The ramparts with Portuguese cannons over the ocean. It's one of the most famous locations of Game of Thrones — the port of Astapor and Daenerys's city.
The argan goats
On the road to Essaouira you'll see something surreal: goats up in the argan trees eating the fruit. Their digestion is part of the traditional process of extracting argan oil, a cosmetic and food exclusive to this region.
When to go
You can go all year round. In winter (December-February) it's cool but dry and bright. In summer (July-August) you escape the heat of the interior — 10-15°C less than Marrakech.
