Day trip to Essaouira from Agadir

Though Agadir has sun-drenched beaches and a low-key coastal atmosphere, with a day trip to Essaouira, you can introduce history, art, and Atlantic allure to your Moroccan vacation. But that’s what Essaouira is famous for: an ancient UNESCO-listed port town with a charm and atmosphere that drawn artists, musicians, and those of us with an irresistible wanderlust for years.

With its blue-and-white painted medina, busy harbor, and laid-back vibe, Essaouira is a perfect antidote to Agadir’s breezy 21st-century beach resort verve.

Why go from Agadir to Essaouira?

A day trip from Agadir to Essaouira (it’s a little under 3 hours once in each direction) is definitely doable and worth it. Whether you want fresh seafood, a wander through history or the fragrance of salty sea air spiced with Moroccan aromas, Essaouira provides.

Here’s what to look out for on this one-day Atlantic excursion.

The Itinerary: Essaouira, in One Day

Morning Departure from Agadir

Your voyage there starts with a scenic drive north along the coast, through Argan tree groves where, if you are lucky, you’ll see goats climbing up into the trees in search of fruit. Most visits provide a chance to stop off at an all-women Argan oil cooperative where you can see how this liquid gold is harvested and take a sample of Argan-based beauty products and tasty treats with you.

Welcome to Essaouira – A City of Wind and Spirit

You feel it, as soon as you arrive in Essaouira: the wind and the salty air and the gulls shrieking all have their effect. To relax, however, is the town’s charm, and a break from the hustle of larger Moroccan cities.

Highlights to Explore:

Essaouira Medina: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the medina is a charming labyrinth of artisan shops, art galleries, spice stalls and brightly painted doors. These are my favorite things: It’s small and walkable — great for getting lost with intent.

Skala de la Ville: These 18th-century ramparts provide panoramic views of the ocean and a movie backdrop (you might remember them from Game of Thrones).

The Port: See fishermen pulling in their catch, wander in the fortress towers and eat a lunch of freshly-grilled seafood right on the water.

Moulay Hassan Square: Wizard for sipping mint tea and doing a little people-watching, as Gnaoua music wafts over from street performers near by.

Optional Activities

  • Kitesurfing or windsurfing (Essaouira is known for its winds).
  • Horse rides or camel rides on the beach.
  • Art shopping – There’s a strong bohemian art scene in Essaouira.

Return to Agadir in the Afternoon

You can visit the souk, relax to the sound of the waves, and enjoy the fresh sea air until early afternoon, when you'll return to Agadir — arriving in time for dinner, and an evening back in the port city. The majority of your trips offer air-conditioned transportation and a local guide, so you can make the most of your time.


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