A gem in the Medina of Essaouira

Entire rental unit in Essaouira, Morocco

  1. 6 guests
  2. 3 bedrooms
  3. 3 bathrooms
Rated 4.68 out of 5 stars.40 reviews
Hosted by Claire
  1. 2 years hosting

Listing highlights

City view

Soak up the view during your stay.

At-home coffee

Start your morning right with the French press and filter coffee maker.

Great Host communication

Recent guests loved Claire’s communication.
This charming riad in the heart of Essaouira's Medina combines traditional Moroccan design with modern comforts and is located off Place Moulay Hassan, near the fishing port and restaurants.
The cozy living area leads to a fully equipped kitchen. The three bedrooms are beautifully decorated, with one featuring a mezzanine. Two terraces offer panoramic views and cozy spaces for dining or relaxing.
Just a short walk to souks, landmarks, and beaches, it's perfect for exploring.

The space
This charming 3-bedroom riad for rent in the heart of the Medina of Essaouira offers a perfect blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and modern comforts. With its serene ambiance and vibrant location, it’s an ideal retreat for those seeking an authentic Moroccan experience.

The riad is located in a traditional covered alley off the main square, Place Moulay Hassan, adjacent to the fishing port, many restaurants and night time attractions.

The riad offers a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling Medina. The main living area is cozy and tastefully decorated with Moroccan furnishings, featuring a comfortable sitting area, ornate lanterns, a fireplace and television.
The sitting area opens into the fully equipped renovated kitchen.

The riad boasts three double bedrooms, each with unique touches such as local artwork and traditional Moroccan textiles. One of the bedrooms offers a mezzanine area with additional single bed, making it perfect for families or groups. Two bedrooms have direct access to the terraces and all are equipped with ample storage.
The bathrooms are modern yet reflect the traditional Moroccan design, with beautiful tiling, Tadelakt plaster and walk-in showers, and modern fixtures for a luxurious stay.

One of the standout features of this riad is its two cosy sun terraces, each offering a quiet sitting area or a panoramic view of Essaouira’s Medina. The upper terrace is perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast or a glass of Moroccan mint tea, sunbathing, enjoying sunsets, or hosting intimate dinners under the stars next to the built-in BBQ.
The lower terrace offers a protected space and houses the laundry cupboard with modern automatic washing machine.

The riad is located just a short walk from the lively souks, historic landmarks, and beautiful beaches, making it a prime location for exploring the charm and culture of Essaouira. Whether you're relaxing on the terraces, or wandering through the Medina, this riad offers an authentic and comfortable escape.

We also have a sister property, a luxurious Beldi villa in the countryside within 10 minutes drive of the surfing beach of Sidi Kaouki, which makes this property ideal for a twin-centre vacation. airbnb.com/h/villamelkbilki.

Guest access
The entire house will be available to all booking.

Please note the following:

Additional guests, not included in the booking will be charged at 200Dh per night, payable on site.

Due to the large number of steps the property is not suitable for anyone who cannot manage three flights of stairs and young children must be supervised at all time on the terraces.

The Medina of Esaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site comprises multiple small alleys, some of which are covered. Our secure gated entrance area is shared with a neighbour and is situated at the end of a covered alley.

Other things to note
The property is just 100m from the main square, Place Moulay Hassan.

It is located through a typical covered alley with houses and shops to both sides and overhead.

Essaouira is an ancient medina (a World Heritage site) and cats are plentiful and cared for by the local inhabitants.

Please do not encourage or bring cats into any part of the house.

You may find at times that rubbish will be put out for collection in the evenings, but this is removed by the time that you leave the riad in the morning.

This is a muslim country and the beautiful sound of call to prayer can be heard, particularly on the upper floors of our house.

What this place offers

City skyline view
Beach access
Kitchen
Wifi
Dedicated workspace
Unavailable: Carbon monoxide alarm
Unavailable: Smoke alarm

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4.68 out of 5 stars from 40 reviews

Overall rating

  1. 5 stars, 78% of reviews
  2. 4 stars, 15% of reviews
  3. 3 stars, 5% of reviews
  4. 2 stars, 3% of reviews
  5. 1 stars, 0% of reviews

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for cleanliness

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars for accuracy

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for check-in

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for communication

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars for location

Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars for value

Guest reviews mention

Where you’ll be

Essaouira, Marrakesh-Safi, Morocco

The Medina of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning example of an 18th-century fortified town that seamlessly blends European and North African influences. Known for its unique charm, laid-back atmosphere, and artistic vibe, the medina is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a glimpse of Morocco's rich cultural heritage.
Key Features of the Medina
History
• The history of Mogador bay goes back to pre-Christian times. Numerous populations have laid claim to the area over the centuries. It became a French protectorate in the 18th Century.
Architecture and Layout
• Designed by French engineer Théodore Cornut in the mid-18th century, the medina incorporates European military architecture adapted to Moroccan coastal needs.
• The ramparts are iconic, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the bustling harbour. Their imposing bastions, such as Skala de la Ville, feature old cannons and provide a striking backdrop for exploring the medina.
Markets (Souks)
• The medina’s winding streets are lined with vibrant souks, where artisans sell handcrafted items like woodwork (especially thuya wood), leather goods, textiles, jewellery, and traditional Moroccan rugs.
• Local markets buzz with activity, offering fresh produce, spices, and unique goods in a colourful and authentic atmosphere.
Artistic Heritage
• Essaouira is often referred to as the “City of Artists” due to its thriving creative scene. The medina is dotted with galleries and workshops showcasing local and international artwork.
• Traditional Gnawa music, with its spiritual and hypnotic rhythms, can often be heard in the medina, and the annual Essaouira Gnawa and World Music Festival and Moga festival are major highlights.
Cultural Fusion
• The medina reflects Essaouira’s historical role as a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Berber, Arab, Jewish, and European communities.
• The Mellah (Jewish quarter) holds historical significance, and visitors can still explore its narrow alleys and synagogues.
Dining and Cafés
• Essaouira’s medina is home to an array of charming cafés and restaurants, offering everything from fresh seafood (straight from the nearby port) to Moroccan staples like tagines, harira soup, and mint tea.
• Outdoor terraces in the medina offer the perfect setting for enjoying a meal while people-watching.
Why Visit?
The medina of Essaouira offers a harmonious mix of history, culture, and relaxation. Whether wandering its labyrinthine streets, shopping for unique treasures, or enjoying its rich culinary and musical heritage, the medina promises a memorable and immersive experience. Its laid-back pace and cool coastal breeze make it a refreshing alternative to busier Moroccan cities like Marrakech or Fes.

Meet your host

Host
70 reviews
4.77 out of 5 average rating
2 years of hosting
Where I went to school: Rural Yorkshire
My work: Former nurse
I've been in love with Morocco for many years; the people, the geography, the food and the climate. I want to share a little part of this fabulous corner of the world with my guests. I hope people will use my properties as a base from which to explore the medina, the beach and the local area. There are hidden gems around so many corners. This is a place to explore, get lost and to step into another world. I hope that you will love Essaouira.

Co-Hosts

  • Johnathan
  • Simo

Host details

Response rate: 100%
Responds within an hour
To help protect your payment, always use Airbnb to send money and communicate with hosts.

Things to know

Cancellation policy
House rules
Check-in after 14:00
Checkout before 11:00
6 guests maximum
Safety & property
No carbon monoxide alarm
No smoke alarm
Heights without rails or protection