Day Trip at a Glance
Duration
Full day, with about 2.5 to 3 hours of driving each way
Tour Type
Private day trip for your group only
Starts and Ends
Marrakech
Pick-up
Early in the morning
Highlights
The UNESCO medina, the fishing harbour, the beach and a seafood lunch
Price
On request. Contact us for a free quote
A Day by the Atlantic
A day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira is a popular excursion and a welcome contrast to the bustle of the city. This charming coastal town is known for its relaxed atmosphere, its beaches and its historic fortifications, and its medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with whitewashed buildings, blue shutters and narrow lanes full of artisan workshops.
You visit the fishing harbour, spend time on the beach, enjoy a seafood lunch by the sea and browse the shops for local crafts before driving back to Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening.
Day Trip Highlights
- The UNESCO-listed medina of Essaouira
- White-washed buildings with blue shutters
- The fishing harbour with its colourful boats
- Time on the beach
- A seafood lunch by the sea
- Woodwork, jewellery and art in the local shops
Your Day, Step by Step
This itinerary can be modified and designed according to your requirements and needs. Contact us to adapt it.
Early departure from Marrakech
The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours through scenic landscapes.
The medina
Explore the UNESCO-listed medina, known for its white-washed buildings with blue shutters, narrow alleys, artisan workshops and busy markets.
Port and fishing harbour
Visit the fishing harbour, where local fishermen bring in their catch, with its colourful boats and seagulls.
Beach time
Relax on the sandy shore or take a stroll along the coast. Windsurfing or a camel ride on the beach are possible if you are interested and time permits.
Lunch by the sea
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, with freshly caught seafood or Moroccan specialities.
Shopping and souvenirs
Essaouira is known for its artisans. Browse the shops and galleries for woodwork, jewellery and art.
Return to Marrakech
Leave in the late afternoon or early evening and arrive back in Marrakech by nightfall.
What Is Included
Included
- Private day trip for your group only
- Driver-guide and private transport
- Pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech
Not Included
- Lunch and drinks
- Entrance fees
- Tips
- Anything not listed under “Included”
Contact us to confirm the details for your date and group size.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light jacket, as the coast can be windy
- Sun protection
- Swimwear and a towel, if you would like to swim
- Cash for lunch, souvenirs and tips
Is This Day Trip Right for You?
This trip suits travellers who want a relaxed day by the sea after time in Marrakech. It involves about 5 to 6 hours in the car, and the coast can be windy, so bring a light jacket.
Want to stay longer? Our 13-day imperial cities tour includes two nights in Essaouira.
More Day Trips
Compare our other day trips from Marrakech.
See the 100-metre cascades, hike through olive groves and meet Barbary macaques.
Drive into the High Atlas, visit Berber villages and hike to the Setti Fatma waterfalls.
Cross the Tizi n’Tichka pass and visit the UNESCO-listed kasbah in a full day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Essaouira a UNESCO World Heritage site?
Yes. Its medina is listed by UNESCO and is known for its whitewashed buildings and blue shutters.
How long is the drive to Essaouira?
The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours each way from Marrakech.
Where does the day trip start and end?
The day trip starts and ends in Marrakech.
Is lunch included?
You have lunch at a seaside restaurant, with freshly caught seafood or Moroccan specialities. Lunches and drinks are not included in the price, so you can choose what you like.
Can the day trip be customised?
Yes. The itinerary can be modified according to your requirements, and group discounts are available. Tell us what you need on our contact page.
Can I combine it with a longer tour?
Yes. Many guests combine a day trip with one of our multi-day tours. See our tours in Morocco or contact us and we will adapt the itinerary.
How do I book or get a price?
Fill in the form at the bottom of this page or email travelstomorocco@gmail.com with your date and the number of people, and we will reply with a free quote.
Plan Your Trip
Helpful pages before you book:
Ready for a Day at the Coast?
Tell us your date and group size, and we will send you a free quote for this day trip.
Email: travelstomorocco@gmail.com | Phone: +212 6 62 38 50 95
Ask for Prices
Please fill in the form below or contact us directly by email at travelstomorocco@gmail.com, and we will answer you as soon as possible. Include your date and the number of people.