Welcome to The Windy City : Essaouira

Welcome to The Windy City : Essaouira

Taha Benslimane
Essaouira is by far one of my favorite cities in Morocco that little people know about; it's characterized by a hippie, carefree vibe. It is a seaside, not so big of a town, but a must if you're in the neighborhood. This guide includes: šŸ›Ž 3 accommodations šŸ 4 spots where to eat out ā˜•ļø 4 favorite cafĆ©s šŸ„‚ 2 nightlife spots šŸ‘‰šŸ» 3 Places to explore & Activities to do + Bonus : an international event This guide is perfect for solo travelers or a group of friends traveling together. How much time should you spend visiting Essaouira ? I believe 2ā€“3 days are enough to take back with you lifetime memories of this charming town. Feel free to reach out if you'd like a more personalized guide or if you have any specific questions: IG @tahatravels_ šŸ“§ benslimanetaha03@gmail.com
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Where to stay in Essaouira ?

Hostel La Smala
@taha_bens
In all honesty, I wouldn't mind going back to this hostel every year. Everything about it is aesthetically pleasing and is located in the center of the old town. But it gets full very fast; plan early! Even if you don't stay here, definitely come for a coffee on the rooftop.
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Essaouira Beach Hostel
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View wise, it doesn't get any better than this šŸ‘€
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Atlantic Hostel
@taha_bens
You don't even need to go to Rooftop bars with rooftops like those in your hostel!
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Where to eat out in Essaouira ?

Chez Rachid
@taha_bens
Don't be fooled by the pictures. The interior design isn't the best, but this is THE sport to experience delicious authentic Moroccan food!!
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Fish Market
@taha_bens
Go there early in the morning and buy fresh fish that you take to the nearby grills. It's the cheapest and freshest you'll get.
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Taverna Bolognese Da Maurizio
@taha_bens
If you've had enough of Moroccan food (I highly doubt that though), you can still opt for an authentic pizzeria where you'll be greeted by the owner himself, Maurizio.
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Fishburger Essaouira
@taha_bens
Where best to have a fish burger than Essaouira?
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3 Favorite CafĆ©s in Essaouira :Ā 

Salut Maroc
@taha_bens
You have probably heard of Gnawa this far in your trip. This is the best sport for a sunset drink and aperitivo, along with Gnawa folklore live music. Bonus, the interior design is mesmerizing!
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Beach and Friends
@taha_bens
You can come have lunch with a beach view, or better yet, come have a drink and enjoy some quality house music at night during the weekends.
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PĆ¢tisserie Driss
@taha_bens
This place opened in 1928; you should definitely give it a visit as the decor is amazing.
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Palais des Remparts - Riad luxe Essaouira
@taha_bens
Although this a hotel, you can definitely go there for a coffee!
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What about nightlife, is there somewhere to party ?

Taros
@taha_bens
If you're thinking that you'll be bored at night in a small town, think again. This is a great nightlife spot in Essaouira. The entry is 100 dirhams with two drinks included.
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Beytt Mogador
@taha_bens
Definitely bring a jacket with you, it gets cold at night.
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Where to go in Essaouira ?

1 - Ā Visit the Port of Essaouira

The smell of the port will stay with you even after you leave. Wander around and discover a completely different scene than what you're used to seeing.

2 - Wander along the ramparts

If you are a Game of Thrones fan, these are a ā€˜must see. Ā They were shown when Daenerys TargaryenĀ arrives to Astapor, and then again as ā€˜The Walk of Punishmentā€™. Also, feel free to buy a souvenir from the merchants along the ramparts to take back with you.

3 - Get lost in the old Medina

As in most ancient Moroccan cities, the old town is home to many antique boutiques selling whatever comes to your mind. The warmth you feel wandering around those narrow streets is a special feeling.

3 Must do activities in Essaouira ?

Last but not least, the Gnaoua World Music Festival :

What is the event that brings all folklore music lovers from all over the world to Essaouira for 3 days ? It's theĀ Gnaoua World Music Festival that occurs during the month of June. During those three days, the city vibrates from joy and good music. If you're planning your trip to Essaouira, definitely try to go during the festival.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Taha Benslimane
Hi! Iā€™m Taha, a computer science student and aspiring full-time traveler, currently on an exchange program in Turin, Italy. My journey began when I left Morocco to study in Montpellier, France. Solo travel soon stole my heart, making me a better, wiser, and more fun person with each trip. I've now explored over 10 countries and aim to reach 25 by the time Iā€™m 25! As a student with a limited budget, my trips arenā€™t the most luxurious, but theyā€™re full of real connections and authentic vibes. Thatā€™s when I realized the difference between being a traveler versus a tourist. I started sharing my trips on Instagram to inspire others around my age to experience the world authentically. So, what can you expect from my page? The best guides and itineraries for solo travelers that include hostels where to stay, bars where to hang out, festivals to go to, and hidden cool places that donā€™t show up on the first Google search I only discovered through recommendations from the locals. Also, if you need a customized itinerary, I can even help plan your trip and save you hours of research. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any doubts!
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