The short answer
About four and a half hours. On our Essaouira day you arrive around 11:30 after a stop at an argan cooperative, and leave at 16:00 to reach Marrakech in the evening. That is time for the walled medina, lunch at the fishing port and a walk on the Skala sea ramparts, at an easy pace.
In more detail
The medina is a UNESCO site of whitewashed lanes, with spice and woodwork souks and Gnaoua music shops. The harbour is a working port where blue fishing boats unload, and the grilled fish lunch there is an optional add-on.
The Skala ramparts and the brass cannon look out over the Atlantic. Orson Welles filmed Othello here, and Game of Thrones used the walls too.
Want longer? The car is private, so you can leave later and return later, or stay the night and take a one-way transfer back the next day. Evening is when Essaouira is at its best.
Good to know
- Bring a windproof layer and sunglasses.
- Carry cash for the harbour lunch and the souks.
- Ask for a later return in summer to enjoy the cooler coast longer.
- Watch the clock: the drive back is about 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Look for the blue fishing boats unloading at the port around lunchtime.