If you’re after a low key adventure away from the usual overcrowded hot spots of Morocco, then the old town of Essaouira is the answer. Listed as a World Heritage Site, beautiful Essaouira with its calm coast and teeming markets is a great place to experience some world history. Archaeological excavations have actually shown that the site of Essaouira was originally a Phoenician trading settlement, which was followed by Cretans, Greeks, and then the Romans.

The combination of a calm harbor and a strategic position on the Atlantic Ocean provided Essaouira with an important role, becoming the heart of trading for centuries. This is due to the assistance of the Alaouite Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah, who built a port that exposed Morocco to the outside world and created commercial relations with Europe. The Sidi Mohammed ben Abdellah museum is a must-see to fully capture the town’s history.

Another favorable way to soak up the town’s history is by staying in a riad, these are conveniently placed in the ancient medina, which provides an excellent base for exploring the medina. And of course, roaming around the city walls, ramparts and citadel is an exhilarating experience for any history buff out there.

Additionally, if you’re into your seafood, then the fish market in Essaouira is a popular attraction. Essaouira is often praised for providing an authentic Moroccan experience by allowing tourists to select their favorite fish and have local chefs from nearby restaurants cook it for them.

If that isn’t a good enough incentive to visit Essaouira, then I don’t know what is!

If you are interested in visiting Essaouira, our travel experts are happy to assist you to plan an unforgettable Morocco tour.