Driving in Essaouira is easy as long as you know two or three local rules — especially around the medina, which is fully pedestrian. Here is what you need to know to drive and, above all, where to park with peace of mind.
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Where to park in Essaouira?
The old town (medina) is fully pedestrian — you cannot drive into it. The easiest option is to leave the car in a guarded car park at the gates of the medina, then continue on foot — everything is close by. The most practical options:
- Bab Marrakech — a guarded car park at one of the main gates, a few minutes' walk from the heart of the medina.
- Bab Doukkala — the other main gate, handy for the north side of the medina.
- Around the port and the Skala — parking available near the seafront.
- Your riad or hotel — many places outside the medina have parking or can point you to the nearest one.
Expect a few dirhams per hour, or a daily rate in guarded car parks. Avoid illegal parking and unauthorised areas, which are frequently fined. In street parking, an attendant watches over the vehicles: a small tip is customary.
Driving in Essaouira
Outside the medina, traffic is smooth and easy. Traffic drives on the right. Watch out for two-wheelers, pedestrians and carts around the centre, and never drive into the medina's pedestrian lanes, even if your GPS tells you to: park before you get there.
On the road: rules and checks
Usual speed limits: 60 km/h in town, 100 on roads, 120 on motorways. Seat belts are compulsory in the front and in the back, and zero tolerance is recommended for alcohol. The police checks at the entrance to towns are routine and courteous: slow down, keep your licence and the vehicle papers (provided with the rental) on you, and all will be well. Watch out for fixed and mobile speed cameras on the main roads.
Driving around the surroundings
The roads to Sidi Kaouki, Diabat or the argan country (towards Tamanar) are in good condition and easy. To go further, see our guides Essaouira → Marrakech and Essaouira → Agadir, or our ideas for day trips around Essaouira. For the airport (ESU), allow 25 minutes — we can also deliver the vehicle.
Ready to hit the road?
Still unsure? Read do you need to rent a car in Essaouira?. Otherwise, book your car rental in Essaouira — recent Dacia fleet, from 250 DH/day, at Dablal Cars.