Welcome to our hilarious guide to getting around Essaouira! Whether you’re a visiting tourist or a local, we’ve put together all the essential information you need to explore Essaouira without getting in over your head. Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a wild adventure in Essaouira!
1. Public transport
City buses
Ah, city buses, those jewels of public transport! In Essaouira, you’re spoilt for choice with a well-developed bus network linking all the districts and tourist attractions. The icing on the cake is that rates are affordable and schedules almost as regular as the time your mother calls to ask when you’re getting married. For routes and timetables, visit your local tourist office or consult your favorite crystal ball.
Shared cabs
Looking for an exciting social experience? Climb aboard the “grand cabs“, or shared cabs, and discover Essaouira in the company of complete strangers. You can share your life, your problems and even your sandwich with your fellow travelers. Just make sure you negotiate the price before you get in the car, and get ready to become everyone’s temporary best friend.
2. Individual means of transport
Car rental
Want to go all James Bond and have total freedom of movement? Rent a car, baby! In Essaouira, you’ll find several rental agencies offering a range of vehicles as varied as a restaurant menu with a hundred dishes. Find out all you can about rental conditions, insurance and rates, and may the road be with you (and without traffic jams).
The bike
Pedal, pedal, intrepid cyclists! Essaouira is a bike-lover’s paradise, with affordable rentals all over the city. Wander the narrow streets of the medina or take a refreshing stroll along the coastal landscape. Watch out for waves of tourists in leisurely stroll mode, and remember: the golden rule is not to honk if you’re overtaken by a goat.
Walking
Walking is for real adventurers! Essaouira is a compact city where you can reach almost everything on foot. Stroll along the beach, wander through the medina’s picturesque streets and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere. And if you do get lost, don’t panic, it’s just an opportunity to discover secret corners and ask a stray cat for directions.
3. Practical advice
Getting around the medina
Welcome to the enchanted labyrinth of Essaouira’s medina! Be prepared to get lost in the narrow, winding lanes, but don’t worry, this isn’t a deadly maze-like experience. Use landmarks such as Place Moulay Hassan or the medina gates to orient yourself. And if you’re really lost, call on the magic of the warm and welcoming locals who will guide you with a smile.
Road safety
When using Essaouira’s roads, be sure to respect the highway code and exercise caution. Motorists can be unpredictable, so it’s important to stay alert. Pedestrians also need to be careful, especially when crossing busy streets.
Parking lots
If you decide to rent a car, Essaouira has its own parking facilities. Some hotels and resorts also offer parking facilities for their guests. Find out in advance about parking possibilities and rates, and don’t forget to do a little victory dance if you find a free parking space!
4. Essaouira must-sees
The Essaouira medina
Get ready to plunge into a whirlwind of colors, smells and sounds in Essaouira’s medina. It’s a bit like an amusement park without the rides, but with a multitude of boutiques, artisan workshops and lively alleyways. You can even dress up as Aladdin if you like – no one will judge.
The fishing port
At the port of Essaouira, you can witness a colorful spectacle: local fishermen unloading their precious cargo. If you’re a seafood lover, this is the place to be. Go to one of the restaurants lining the harbor and enjoy delicious dishes while watching the boats sail by.
The beach at Essaouira
Attention thrill-seekers: Essaouira beach is a paradise for surfers and kitesurfers! Whether you’re a beginner in “I’m going to break my face” mode or a pro in “I’m a fish in water” mode, there are surf and kitesurf schools along the beach ready to turn you into a wave superhero. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a hilarious photo of yourself falling into the water.
The city walls
Climb the ramparts of Essaouira and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views. You can admire the city, the medina and even the Atlantic Ocean, if you look in the right direction. Don’t forget to take ridiculous selfies with the landscape as a backdrop, you’ll need them to brighten up your photo gallery.
In conclusion, getting around Essaouira is like doing a hilarious dance on a giant stage. With city buses, shared cabs, car hire, bicycles or simply your feet, you can explore the city and have the time of your life. Don’t forget to visit Essaouira’s must-sees, such as the medina, fishing port, beach and ramparts, for unforgettable memories. Bon voyage, folks, and may the funny adventure be with you!
