Have you ever dreamed of swapping the hustle of a bustling city for the salty breeze of a coastal haven? The journey from Casablanca to Essaouira is exactly that—a beautiful transition from Morocco‘s economic powerhouse to its most laid-back, artistic beach town.
I’ve taken this drive myself, and let me tell you, it’s more than just a transfer. It’s a scenic escape. You leave behind the modern high-rises and traffic jams for endless horizons of argan trees, fields of wildflowers, and the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean.
Whether you’re a solo traveler with a backpack, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family lugging surfboards, this route has something for you. In this guide, we’ll cover everything: how to get there, what it costs, the best places to stop, and exactly what to do once you arrive in the “Windy City of Africa.” Ready for an adventure? Let’s dive in.
Why Travel from Casablanca to Essaouira?
You might be wondering, “Why Essaouira?” Casablanca is often the first port of call for international flights. It’s a vibrant, modern city with its own charms. But if you want to experience a different side of Morocco—one that is peaceful, creative, and steeped in history—Essaouira is the answer.
Essaouira (pronounced Essa-weera) is the polar opposite of Casablanca. Where Casa means business, Essaouira means relaxation. It’s a UNESCO-protected medina where the pace of life is dictated by the tides rather than the clock. The air is filled with the sound of seagulls and the strumming of Gnawa music, not car horns.
Taking this route allows you to experience the diversity of Morocco. You get the modern airport infrastructure and city life, followed immediately by a scenic road trip through the authentic Moroccan countryside, ending up in a historical port city that has inspired artists like Jimi Hendrix and Orson Welles for decades. It’s the perfect one-two punch for a memorable vacation.
Your Journey: Travel Options & Pricing from Casablanca to Essaouira
Getting from Casablanca (especially from Casablanca Anfa Airport (CAS)) to Essaouira is straightforward, but the experience varies greatly depending on how you choose to travel. Here’s a breakdown of your options to help you decide.
Private Transfer: The Ultimate Comfort (Our Top Pick)
For most travelers, especially those arriving on an international flight, a private transfer is hands down the best option. You land at Casablanca Anfa Airport (CAS) , and a professional driver is waiting for you. No navigating train stations, no dragging suitcases onto crowded buses—just pure, hassle-free comfort.
- Travel Time: Approx. 4.5 to 5 hours .
- Distance: Approximately 370 km .
- The Experience: You’re in control of the music, the AC, and most importantly, the stops. Want to pull over for photos of the argan trees? Need a coffee break? You call the shots.
- Why we love it: It turns a 5-hour journey into a relaxing part of your vacation.
By Car: The Adventurer‘s Choice
Renting a car gives you the ultimate freedom to explore the coastline at your own pace.
- Recommended Route: Take the A5 highway towards El Jadida and Safi. This is the fastest and smoothest route . For the more scenic (but slower) option, hug the coastal road for stunning ocean views.
- Cost: Rental can be as cheap as 250–400 MAD per day, plus fuel (180–250 MAD) and tolls (approx. 60–90 MAD) .
- Hidden Gems: This option lets you stop in Oualidia, a serene lagoon famous for its oyster farms, and Safi, Morocco’s pottery capital .
By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re watching your dirhams, the bus is a reliable and affordable choice.
- Operators: CTM is the gold standard here—comfortable, air-conditioned, and punctual. Supratours is another good option .
- Travel Time: 5.5 to 7 hours .
- Price: 120–180 MAD .
- Note: Buses don’t leave from the airport. You’ll need to get to the CTM station in downtown Casablanca, which can be a hassle with luggage.
The Train + Bus Combo
There is no direct train to Essaouira . However, you can take a high-speed train from Casa Voyageurs to Marrakech, and then catch a connecting Supratours bus from the train station to Essaouira.
- Travel Time: 6–8 hours.
- Cost: 130–250 MAD.
- Best For: Travelers who want to stretch their legs and experience the modern Moroccan railway.
Summary of Costs (2026 Estimates)
Our Recommendation: Book a private transfer from Casablanca Anfa Airport. It eliminates stress, guarantees a direct door-to-door service, and gives you the flexibility to enjoy the scenic stops without being tied to a bus schedule.
Exploring Casablanca: More Than Just an Airport City
Before you hit the road, give Casablanca a fair chance. It’s often just a transit hub, but it has a few world-class attractions worth your time.
Best Attractions in Casablanca
- Hassan II Mosque: This is non-negotiable. One of the largest mosques in the world, its minaret stands 210 meters tall, and it’s stunningly built right on the Atlantic edge. The guided tours inside are fascinating for non-Muslims. Pro tip: Visit at dusk for the most incredible lighting . [Insert Image: The magnificent Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca with the ocean waves crashing against its foundation.]
- The Cornish: This seaside promenade stretches for kilometers. It’s the perfect place for a morning jog or an evening stroll, watching locals fish and families enjoy the fresh air.
- Rick‘s Café: A replica of the famous café from the movie Casablanca. It’s a tourist trap? Maybe a little. But sipping a drink in this meticulously recreated setting is a fun, nostalgic experience for film buffs.
Where to Eat & Sleep in Casablanca
- Eat:
- Restaurant du Port de Pêche: For the freshest seafood, go where the fishermen eat. It’s simple, chaotic, and delicious.
- La Sqala: A beautiful restaurant set in an old Portuguese fortress. The breakfast here is legendary, and the gardens are an oasis of calm.
- Stay:
- Kenzi Tower Hotel: For luxury and a view. Staying here puts you in one of the twin towers, with a breathtaking panorama of the city and mosque.
- Hotel Astrid: A solid, reliable mid-range option that’s clean, central, and great value for money.
Destination Paradise: The Best of Essaouira
After your scenic drive, you’ll arrive in the blue-and-white dream that is Essaouira. The moment you step out of the car, you’ll feel the difference. The wind—the famous Alizée—will greet you, carrying the scent of salt and grilled sardines . Let’s explore the best this city has to offer.
Top Attractions in Essaouira
- The Medina & Skala de la Ville: Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the medina. Unlike Marrakech, the hustle here is gentler. Make your way to the Skala, the seaside ramparts. Walking the walls, with bronze cannons pointing out to sea and waves crashing below, feels cinematic—because it is. This was a filming location for Game of Thrones .
- Essaouira Fishing Port: Head down to the harbor in the late afternoon. Watch the blue fishing boats come in with the day’s catch. The energy is infectious, and the whole area is a photographer’s dream .
- The Beach (Plage d’Essaouira): Essaouira beach is vast, flat, and golden. It’s the perfect place for a long walk, a camel ride, or—if you’re brave—a dip in the Atlantic. Because of the constant wind, it’s also a world-class spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing .
- Place Moulay Hassan: This is the main square, right between the medina and the port. It’s lined with cafes where you can sit for hours, sip a mint tea, and watch the world go by .
Best Restaurants in Essaouira
Essaouira is a foodie haven. The seafood is the star, but the international influence here is strong.
- Taros: The place to be for sunset. Head to the rooftop for a drink and watch the sky turn pink over the islands .
- La Table by Madada: Chic, romantic, and incredibly creative. It’s located in a former warehouse and offers a sophisticated take on Moroccan flavors .
- Caravane Café: A beautiful, artsy riad just outside the medina walls. The food is a fusion of Moroccan and European, and the atmosphere is pure bohemian bliss .
- Chez Françoise: A tiny, wonderful lunch spot perfect for vegetarians, offering quiches, salads, and a cozy vibe .
- Grilled Fish at the Port: For the most authentic meal, walk down to the port stalls. You pick your fresh fish, and they grill it for you right there. It’s simple, messy, and absolutely perfect.
Where to Stay in Essaouira
- Luxury: Heure Bleue Palais – A stunning, 5-star palace hotel near Bab Marrakech. It’s pure elegance and history .
- Mid-Range: Hotel Riad Al Madina – A massive, beautifully restored riad with a fantastic hammam. It’s a popular and reliable choice .
- Unique: Dar Caravane – Located just outside the city in Diabat, this is a gorgeous guesthouse set in lush gardens with a pool. It feels like a countryside retreat, minutes from the beach .
Pro Travel Tips: Dos, Don’ts, and Secret Hacks
- Best Time to Visit: The sweet spots are April to May and September to November. The weather is warm and sunny, but the crowds from summer have thinned out. If you’re a music lover, plan your trip for the Gnaoua World Music Festival in June—the city comes alive .
- Cash is King: While cards are accepted in hotels and higher-end restaurants, the medina and small shops run on cash. Withdraw enough dirhams before you leave Casablanca or use the ATMs near Place Moulay Hassan .
- Dress the Part: Essaouira is liberal compared to other Moroccan cities, but it’s still respectful to dress modestly, especially in the medina. The most important rule? Bring a jacket or sweater. Even in summer, the wind makes the evenings chilly .
- Bargaining Etiquette: Haggling in the souks is expected. Start at about half the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle. It’s a game—keep it friendly and smile!
- Acknowledge Scams: Be politely firm with “guides” who try to show you the way. If you don’t want their service, a simple “La, shukran” (No, thank you) is usually enough .
- Seat Hack: If you take the bus, book a seat on the left side for the best ocean views as you approach Essaouira .
Book Your Ride from Casablanca Anfa Airport Today!
So, are you ready to trade the rush of the city for the rhythm of the sea?
Don’t let the logistics of travel eat into your vacation time. Imagine stepping off your plane at Casablanca Anfa Airport, walking past the taxi touts, and sliding into a clean, air-conditioned private vehicle that’s waiting just for you. You can sit back, relax, and watch the Moroccan countryside unfold outside your window, knowing you’ll be sipping mint tea in a seaside cafe in just a few hours.
Make the smart choice for your Moroccan adventure. Book your stress-free, comfortable transfer now and start your Essaouira journey the right way.
