Ramparts, Medina of Essaouira - Image 1
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Essaouira Ramparts Walk

4.8
·188 reviews·Essaouira, Morocco

Historic 18th-century ramparts offering stunning Atlantic views, Game of Thrones filming sites, and vibrant sunset backdrops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, great light

CrowdLow
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Ramparts, Medina of Essaouira - Image 1

Essaouira Ramparts Walk

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, great light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 18th-century ramparts offering stunning Atlantic views, Game of Thrones filming sites, and vibrant sunset backdrops.

4.8
(188 reviews)

"Walk along historic walls with cannons, enjoy ocean views, and catch a glimpse of Game of Thrones filming locations."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive at Opening Time

Get there at 9:45 AM to miss the crowds and enjoy the best photo opportunities.

🌬️ Prepare for Wind

Essaouira is windy! Bring layers and secure your hat.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Skala de la Ville Ramparts

Skala de la Ville Ramparts

Along the Atlantic coast

Walk along historic 18th-century walls with replica cannons, offering stunning Atlantic views and a glimpse of Game of Thrones filming locations.

Instagram+1
Sunset Over the Atlantic

Sunset Over the Atlantic

Western edge of the ramparts

Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky and sea in vibrant colors, a perfect photo opportunity.

TikTokReddit
Seagull Encounters

Seagull Encounters

Along the ramparts

Engage with friendly seagulls by offering them bread, a unique and memorable interaction.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Views and Fewer Crowds

To catch the best ocean views and avoid peak crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The ramparts can get busy, especially during sunset. Be aware that they close relatively early, often around 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. Reddit+1

Embrace the Wind and Seagulls

Essaouira is known for its strong winds, so be prepared for breezy conditions, especially on the ramparts. Bring some bread to feed the seagulls; they're quite accustomed to visitors and it makes for a fun, interactive experience. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, great light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour, sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Opening hours
Why
Beat the rush, best photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Gnawa vibes ❤️. #essaouira #gnaw #gnawa_morocco🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦 #gnawa_traditionelle #essaouira_mogador #music #fypシ #capcutedit #photo #capcutedit #muslim #marrakech
@elrharbaoui
29.1K likes • 954.8K views

🎯 Arrive at Opening Time

Get there at 9:45 AM to miss the crowds and enjoy the best photo opportunities. Reddit

🌬️ Prepare for Wind

Essaouira is windy! Bring layers and secure your hat. TikTok

Windy hair, whenever in Essaouira 💨 #essaouira #essaouira_maroc #essaouira_mogador #windy
@halimasaddiki
14.4K likes • 513.7K views
Discover the beauty of Essaouira with The Berber Tour Guide! 🌊✨ Take a peaceful walk through the historic medina, wander along the golden sandy beaches, and marvel at the stunning ocean views from the ancient ramparts. With expert guidance, immerse yourself in local culture, history, and hidden gems that make Essaouira truly unforgettable. Your perfect coastal adventure awaits! 🐚🌴 #TheBerberTourG...
various_morocco
35 likes • 529 views

🍞 Feed the Seagulls

Bring bread for the seagulls; they're very friendly and will take it from your fingers. Reddit

🎬 Game of Thrones Spot

Recognize filming locations for Astapor and the 'Walk of Punishment'. Instagram+1

Dracarys vibes in Morocco? Yes, please. Finally crossed Essaouira off my bucket list — aka Astapor, home of the Unsullied! If you're a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll instantly recognize the ramparts where Daenerys meets Kraznys and the spot where the ‘Walk of Punishment’ was filmed. But beyond the GoT magic, Essaouira is a chill coastal town full of culture, stunning Atlantic views, and unique ...
heychrisza
22 likes • 555 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive at Opening Time

Get there at 9:45 AM to miss the crowds and enjoy the best photo opportunities. Reddit

🌬️ Prepare for Wind

Essaouira is windy! Bring layers and secure your hat. TikTok

🍞 Feed the Seagulls

Bring bread for the seagulls; they're very friendly and will take it from your fingers. Reddit

🎬 Game of Thrones Spot

Recognize filming locations for Astapor and the 'Walk of Punishment'. Instagram+1

⏳ Check Closing Times

The ramparts close early, often around 8 PM, so plan accordingly. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(188 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the ramparts offer beautiful ocean views and a historical atmosphere, with many appreciating the sunset and the connection to Game of Thrones filming locations. However, some feel the area is small and lacks additional attractions or information, and note the early closing times.

"While the archway looks nice, that's about all the interesting things you can see really. It's a very small area with cannons around, a view of the sea and that's it. At least it's free but it would have to be with how little there is to see here"

Rob

"Nice sunset viewpoint.

Inexplicably, they close it in the evening and chase everyone out shortly after 8pm."

Floyd Cooper

"Be sure to get here 0945hrs at opening to miss the crowds. Good photo opportunities of the ocean. Take bread. Sit in the canon positions and the seaguls will take it from your fingers."

Smith

What People Like

Stunning ocean views
Sunset vistas
Historical cannons

What People Dislike

Small, limited area
Lack of information
Early closing times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The ramparts are easily accessible on foot within the historic medina of Essaouira. If you're arriving by bus or taxi, head towards the old city walls overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Many accommodations are within walking distance. TikTok

Parking can be challenging within the medina itself. It's best to park in designated lots outside the old city walls and walk in. This also allows you to experience the charm of Essaouira on foot. TikTok

While there isn't direct public transport to the ramparts, you can take a local bus or grand taxi to Essaouira's main bus station or taxi ranks, and then walk or take a short petit taxi ride to the medina entrance. TikTok

The ramparts have uneven surfaces and steps in places, which may make them challenging for wheelchair users. It's advisable to check accessibility on-site or with local guides. Instagram

Walking is the best way to explore the ramparts and the surrounding medina. Consider hiring a local guide for deeper historical insights and to navigate the charming alleyways. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking along the Essaouira Ramparts is generally free to access. Enjoy the historical site and ocean views without an admission fee. Reddit

The ramparts have specific opening hours and often close in the evening, typically around 8 PM. It's best to check locally or arrive earlier in the day to ensure you can explore. Reddit+1

While you can see the ramparts from various points, access to walk along them is restricted to their operating hours. They are not open 24/7. Reddit+1

Yes, many local guides offer tours that include the ramparts, providing historical context and pointing out Game of Thrones filming locations. Instagram+1

The ramparts themselves are free to enter, and the areas featured in Game of Thrones are part of the public ramparts, so there's no separate fee for those specific spots. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The western edge offers stunning ocean views, especially during sunset. The areas with the replica cannons also make for dramatic shots. Don't forget to capture the seagulls! TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The ramparts provide a fantastic vantage point for capturing the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean, creating beautiful silhouettes and vibrant colors. TikTokReddit

Yes, you can freely take photos of the ramparts that were used as filming locations for Astapor in Game of Thrones. Instagram+1

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography on the ramparts, but always be respectful of other visitors and local customs. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and rampart structures. A telephoto lens can be useful for seabirds. A sturdy tripod is recommended for sunset shots. TikTok

🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience

You can walk along the historic walls, admire replica cannons, enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic, and spot Game of Thrones filming locations. Feeding seagulls is also a popular activity. Reddit+1

A leisurely walk along the main sections of the ramparts can take about 30-60 minutes, depending on how long you stop to take photos or enjoy the views. Instagram

Crowds can vary. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally less crowded than midday. Weekends and peak tourist seasons can see higher numbers. Reddit

Built in the 18th century, the ramparts were designed to protect Essaouira from naval attacks and secure its vital sea trade routes. They are a testament to the city's maritime history. Reddit

There are no direct amenities like restrooms or cafes on the ramparts themselves. You'll find these facilities within the nearby medina. Instagram

🎫 🎶 Music & Culture

While Gnawa music is a significant part of Essaouira's cultural identity, it's not directly tied to the ramparts themselves. However, you might hear Gnawa music performances in the city, especially during festivals. TikTok+2

Essaouira is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic medina (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and its unique blend of Moroccan and European influences. It's also famous for its annual Gnawa and World Music Festival. TikTok+2

Yes, the ramparts are adjacent to the medina, which is bustling with local life, artisan shops, and traditional Moroccan culture. Instagram+1

While major festivals like the Gnawa Festival are held in the city, the ramparts themselves are more of a historical site and viewpoint rather than a primary event venue. TikTok+1

The Purpuraires Islands (Îles Purpuraires) are visible from the ramparts. Historically, they were a source of purple dye, hence their name. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Essaouira Ramparts can be an engaging experience for families. The replica cannons are always a hit with children, sparking their imagination about pirates and fortresses. The seagulls are another highlight; bringing some bread to feed them is a fun, interactive activity that kids usually love. Reddit The open space allows for some freedom to move around, though supervision is essential due to the proximity to the sea and the height of the walls. TikTok

Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the strongest winds and the largest crowds. The ramparts are free to access, making it a budget-friendly activity. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the historical setting and the chance to see the ocean and boats can keep younger visitors entertained for a good portion of the visit. InstagramReddit

🎬 Game of Thrones Fans

For Game of Thrones enthusiasts, the Essaouira Ramparts are a pilgrimage site. You can walk the very walls that served as the backdrop for the fictional city of Astapor, home of the formidable Unsullied army. Instagram+1 Imagine Daenerys Targaryen commanding her forces as you stand on the Skala de la Ville, the main rampart overlooking the Atlantic. Instagram

Look for the specific sections where key scenes were filmed, such as the 'Walk of Punishment'. While there aren't explicit markers, guides can often point out the most recognizable spots. Instagram The dramatic coastal scenery and the ancient fortifications perfectly capture the gritty atmosphere of the show, making it a thrilling experience for fans. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

The Essaouira Ramparts are a goldmine for photographers. The panoramic ocean views, especially at sunset, offer incredible opportunities for dramatic shots. TikTokReddit The historic cannons and the weathered stone walls provide a strong sense of place and history, perfect for capturing atmospheric images. Instagram

Don't miss the chance to photograph the seagulls in action – they add a dynamic element to your shots. Reddit The contrast between the blue sea, the white medina buildings, and the ochre ramparts is visually striking. TikTok For those seeking that perfect Instagram shot, the ramparts offer numerous picturesque corners, from sweeping vistas to close-ups of architectural details. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Walk Through History and Hollywood

The Essaouira Ramparts, also known as the Skala de la Ville, are a significant historical landmark dating back to the 18th century. They were strategically built to defend the port city against invasions and to protect its crucial sea trade. Walking along these ancient walls, you'll encounter replica cannons that stand as silent sentinels, offering a tangible connection to Essaouira's past as a fortified port. The architecture itself is a testament to the era's defensive engineering. InstagramReddit

Beyond their historical importance, the ramparts have gained modern fame as a filming location. Fans of the hit series Game of Thrones will recognize these walls as the city of Astapor, home of the Unsullied. Scenes like Daenerys Targaryen's arrival and the 'Walk of Punishment' were filmed here, adding a layer of cinematic allure to the experience. Instagram+2 This blend of history and pop culture makes a stroll along the ramparts a unique journey through time and fantasy.

Visitors often describe the ramparts as a place with a "nice sunset viewpoint" and good photo opportunities. However, some note that beyond the views and cannons, there isn't much else in terms of exhibits or information boards, making it a relatively simple but impactful experience. Reddit+1 The strong winds are a constant companion, contributing to the dramatic atmosphere. TikTok

Capturing the Essence: Photography and Atmosphere

The Essaouira Ramparts offer a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hour leading up to sunset. The Atlantic Ocean provides a magnificent backdrop, with waves crashing against the rocks below. The warm light bathes the ancient stone walls and cannons in a beautiful glow, creating dramatic silhouettes and vibrant skies. TikTokReddit Many visitors highlight the sunset views as a must-see, making it an ideal time to visit for stunning photographic opportunities. Instagram

Beyond the grand vistas, the ramparts offer charming details. The seagulls are a constant presence, often seen perched on the cannons or soaring overhead. Bringing a bit of bread can lead to delightful interactions and unique photo moments as they swoop down to take treats from your hand. Reddit The contrast between the weathered stone, the blue sea, and the white-washed buildings of the medina visible from the ramparts creates a picturesque scene. TikTok

While the ramparts themselves are a historical site, their proximity to the fishing port and the medina allows for a broader photographic exploration of Essaouira's vibrant life. The iconic blue fishing boats, the bustling market, and the narrow, winding streets of the medina all contribute to the city's visual appeal. TikTokInstagram