safi travel

Top 6 things to do in Safi, Morocco: from pottery to Portuguese history

Posted on Last updated: February 10, 2024

Rarely on the tourist radar, the coastal town of Safi just a two hour drive north of Essaouira , is famed for its pottery. Indeed, a visit to the Pottery Quarter is one of the top things to do in Safi, Morocco. Although with it’s Portuguese history and coastal location, we believe there is more to this sleepy town and is worthy as a full day trip from Essaouira .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Should you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, but we receive a small commission.

Being an industrial town, Safi is admittedly not as picturesque as Essaouira, and perhaps why it’s off the beaten tourist trail in Morocco. But its fusion of Portuguese, French, Jewish and Arabic history provide pockets of interest, and a wander around the gritty medina feels far less touristy that Essaouira, There’s also a lovely open beach to the north of the city with a surf school.

Below is a map showing the locations to help you plan your day in Safi. Read on for the top things to do in Safi.

1. Pottery Quarter (Colline des Potiers)

Click here for location

Time stands still at the Pottery Quarter on the edge of Safi’s medina, opposite Bab Chaaba. Here you will find the oldest pottery kilns in Morocco where local craftspeople create ceramics by hand using the exact same methods their ancestors have used over centuries. Although the kilns themselves are no longer used. Instead, more reliable gas powered kilns are used. Workshops spill out along the lanes working up the hill and tourists are welcome to walk around and admire the craftsmanship from preparing the clay, moulding the clay, to painting and glazing.

Be warned that it is highly unlikely that you will be able to walk around at peace as guides will approach you to show you around. Their knowledge is actually quite valuable, so worth going along.

If you are invited into a pottery shop to watch a potter work, you will be expected to give a small tip or buy an item from the shop.

A visit to the Pottery Quarter really is an absolute must if visiting Safi, and a wonderful insight to local history.

2. The medina

There are three main entrances to Safi medina. These are Bab Jdid , Bab Agrour and Bab Chabaa . The latter is the one most visitors use as there’s a parking area just outside.

The medina is much grittier that Essaouira’s and displays a really interesting fusion of Portuguese, Moroccan, French and Jewish communities living in harmony. For instance, opposite the entrance to the Grand Mosque in the heart of Safi’s medina is Cathédrale Portugaise (currently closed for renovations), then walk around the corner to see Jewish doorframes and old synagogues.

It’s a relatively small medina to navigate, but the winding alleyways can be disorientating. A guide is worthwhile to show you around, and will also take you to a textile workshop and to visit the colourful street art.

3. National Ceramics Museum

Click here for location Open every day (except Tuesdays) from 10am to 6pm

In a manicured, traffic-free space to the southeast of the medina is a library, theatre, music conservatory, a mausoleum, and National Museum of Ceramics (featured in the above photo).

The National Ceramics Museum is open to visitors every day (except Tuesdays) 10am to 6pm, and houses an array of ceramics, many considered the finest examples of Safi pottery in Morocco. It’s a great way to get a better understanding of Safi’s pottery history. However, descriptions are only in French and Arabic, not English.

Head to the roof for stunning views of Safi medina’s intricate alleyways and across to the Atlantic Ocean.

The Kechla is a Portuguese fortress in Safi. It is not open to the public, however there are usually guides hanging around to lead you around the back and to climb to the top for fantastic views over the Safi. The same guide may then want to take you around the medina of Safi. It’s definitely worth following them, as they will take you to places you are unlikely to find by yourself.

Please tip your guide after your tour.

5. Dine at Le Rooftop

Head to Le Rooftop for brunch or dinner with superb ocean views. Low slung handmade chairs with Moroccan cushions are laid out around low tables, and burgers and pasta are on the menu if you need a change from tagine. Although we very much recommend the brunch spread.

Live bands sometimes play here creating a wonderful atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to finish (or start!) your day in Safi.

6. Safi Beach

Safi Beach sits to the north of the city, near the port. It’s a half hour walk to get here from Bab Chaaba , and not the prettiest walk, so you may want to jump in a petit taxi to get here.

When you do arrive, a large, golden, sandy beach welcomes you. The views to the north offer a craggy coastline, whereas to the south it’s the industrial port.

There are cafes here and a surf school ( Safi Surf Camp ) offering lessons and board hire. There are lots of different packages from one-off beginner lessons to week-long surf camps with accommodation and meals. Surfable waves aren’t always guaranteed here, so contact in advance to check.

Getting to Safi from Essaouira

If you don’t have your own wheels, a Grand Taxi is the next best option if you don’t want to stick to a rigid timetable (expect to pay DH1000 return between Safi and Essaouira).

However the cheapest way is by bus. CTM operates a regular bus service between Essaouira and Safi. The first CTM bus leaves Essaouira at 10am (arriving 12pm) and the last bus leaves Safi at 5:15pm (arriving 7:15pm). This is the same bus that goes on to Casablanca, so check our guide to the Essaouira to Casablanca bus to find out more about what to expect from the journey. You can purchase your ticket from the CTM bus station in Essaouira the day before ( click here for location).

The bus station in Safi is south of the town centre, so you will need to get a petit taxi when you arrive (10DH). Once you’re in the town centre, everything is is walkable.

Getting to Safi from Marrakech or Casblanca

Safi is on the Moroccan rail network, meaning that you can get to Safi reasonably easy from Casablanca and Marrakech (change at Benguerir). Visit the ONCF website for times and to book. Note that the train station in Casablanca is listed as ‘Casa Voyager’ (or ‘Casa Travelers’ if you have Google Translate on to English).

Where to stay in Safi

Being off the tourist radar, accommodation options are limited in Safi. But if you did want to stay overnight, we recommend Ryad du Pêcheur Safi . This colourful riad offers a warm welcome, just to the north of the medina within short walking distance of the top sights listed in this Safi guide.

If you would prefer to be in the medina, we recommend Riad Le Cheval Blanc . This traditional riad oozes Moroccan charm. Otherwise, if you are looking for a Safi hotel with contemporary styling and fast WIFI we recommend Valley Boutique Hotel .

Explore Essaouira ebook

Updated for 2024, the Explore Essaouira ebook is the only travel guide you need for exploring Essaouira . It is jam packed with inspiration on what to do, where to eat, where to stay, and also includes a step-by-step self-guided walking tour (with photos). 

This is a PDF download for use offline and on the go (and ad-free!). Save it to read on the plane to Morocco, download to your phone to follow the self-guided walking tour around the medina, or print it off at home before you leave on your adventures and highlight all the bits you want to remember for your visit.

If you have found this website useful for planning your Essaouira adventures, you can show your support by  buying Jenny a coffee . Thanks so much!

Before your go, check out these useful reads for your visit:

The best things to do in Essaouira

Essaouira walking tour (self-guided)

Day trips from Essaouira

How to get around Essaouira

The best restaurants in Essaouira

The best hotels in Essaouira

Essaouira travel FAQs: everything you need to know before your visit

A brief history of Essaouira

Explore Safi

Plan your trip to safi: best of safi tourism.

Essential Safi

Safi Is Great For

• Riad du Pêcheur Safi
• Safi Surf Camp
• Hotel Riad Asfi
• Valley Boutique Hotel
• Riad Le Cheval Blanc
• Riad du Pêcheur
• Restaurant Chez Said
• Glass house
• Le Plus Grand Tajine Du Monde
• Lalla Fatna Beach
• National Ceramics Museum
• Hammam Koutoubia
• Souiria Beach

Must-see attractions in Safi

Safi's walled medieval medina is sliced in two by Rue du Souq, which runs northeast from Bab Lamaasa to Bab Chaaba and is lined with shops. On the…

Colline des Potiers

The earthen kilns and chimneys of Potters’ Hill are clearly seen from Bab Chaaba at the edge of the medina. The skills used here are predominantly…

Qasr Al Bahr

The ruins of Safi's once-impressive castle are located next to the crashing waves of the Atlantic. Built to enforce Portuguese authority, house the town…

Cathédrale Portugaise

Opposite the entrance to the Great Mosque and clearly signed from Rue du Souq, this ruined cathedral dates from 1519 and was built in the Manueline …

Massive Portuguese-built fortress with ramps, garden courtyards and gunnery platforms. Closed to the public at the time of research.

More destinations you need to see

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Morocco Travel

Places to visit, Things to do.

Visit Safi, Morocco

Located in Western Morocco along the Atlantic, Safi is a city that has been heavily influenced by Portuguese rule.

Home to an ancient fortress and responsible for the main port supporting Morocco’s sardine industry, it is well known domestically. While it may not be a well known travel destination, Safi gives visitors a chance to shop for masterfully made pottery and experience real Moroccan city life.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay

Safi has plenty of hotels to call home when visiting. What’s on offer ranges from luxury hotels to quaint guest houses and affordable, smaller hotels. Consider one of these top  options for accommodation during your visit.

• Hotel Abda: Located just minutes from the downtown and public transport, this quaint hotel offers air conditioning, cable TV, WIFI, a private bathroom and shower. It boasts a tearoom, restaurant and comfy rooms.
• Hotel Assif: Enjoy the colorful rooms in this traditionally decorated hotel. This establishment has a restaurant and café as well as plenty of space to lounge.
• Hotel Atlantide: This large hotel offers a good location near many of the popular sites. Enjoy the food, pool and beautiful garden.

From architecture to culture there is plenty to keep you busy when visiting Safi. Roam around the town and check out some of the top sites such as:

• Qasr al-Bahr: A focal point of the city, this historic castle was built as a fortress by the Portuguese. Make sure to climb up to the top to get views over the city.
• Musee National de Ceramique : This former defensive site has been restored and re-opened as a museum. Look around at the artistic exhibits and pottery on display.

What to Eat

Eating your way around Safi is part of the fun when visiting. Start in the souks and street stalls and make sure to visit the restaurants as well. The mint tea is a must try and actually hard to avoid but also check out some other dishes like lamb tajine, Oualidia oysters and sardines.

Some popular spots to visit are any of the open air fish markets/restaurants, Restaurant Gegene and Café les Remparts.

Getting Around

Getting around Safi is relatively easy through public transit. Opt for a taxi cab, bus or just walking around the main district.

Best Time to Visit

The peak tourist season in Morocco is between July to September. During these months is when many of the national holidays fall, making it the perfect atmosphere to witness local celebrations.

The weather turns extremely warm and tourists start to make their way in from all over the world. If you want to risk missing some of the festivals, it may be worth it if you aren’t too fond of crowds and high temperatures.

In fact, visiting during spring may be a better option if you want a more peaceful vacation.

Welcome to Moroccopedia

• Privacy Policy
• Morocco with Kids
• Moroccan Tea Culture
• Exploring the Imperial Cities of Morocco
•  Discover the World of Moroccan Leather
• Casablanca or Rabat

Explore the Magic of Marrakech-Safi: Your Ultimate Guide

Marrakech-Safi, a region in Morocco, is a place of enchantment, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. This guide will take you on a journey through the top places to visit, the best time to plan your trip, activities that await, transportation options, dining delights, famous street stalls, where to lay your head, and essential travel tips to make your Marrakech-Safi experience unforgettable.

Places to Visit in Marrakech-Safi

Marrakech: The Red City: The heart of Marrakech-Safi is Marrakech, known for its bustling medina, the historic Bahia Palace, and the mesmerizing Jardin Majorelle.

Essaouira: The Coastal Gem: Essaouira boasts a picturesque medina, a lively port, and vibrant arts and culture scenes.

Ouzoud Waterfalls: Nature’s Beauty: The Ouzoud Waterfalls, the highest in North Africa, are a captivating sight surrounded by lush green landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Marrakech-Safi

The best time to explore Marrakech-Safi is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. Summers can be quite hot, so planning your visit during the milder months is advisable.

Things to Do in Marrakech-Safi

Shop in the Souks: Lose yourself in the intricate alleyways of the souks in Marrakech. Buy spices, carpets, ceramics, and traditional Moroccan goods.

Visit the Beaches: Head to Essaouira or El Jadida for a day of sun, sea, and surf.

Savor Moroccan Cuisine: Relish local dishes such as tagines, couscous, and pastilla in traditional Moroccan restaurants.

How to Get Around in Marrakech-Safi

Taxis: Petite taxis are common for traveling within the city, while grand taxis are available for intercity travel.

Buses: Reliable bus services connect various cities within the region.

Where to Eat in Marrakech-Safi

Le Jardin Marrakech: A delightful restaurant in the heart of Marrakech, offering Moroccan and international cuisine.

L’Auberge Tangaro: Located in Essaouira, this restaurant boasts seafood delights and a terrace with a view of the ocean.

Local Street Food: Don’t miss out on trying street food, like Moroccan pastries, in the bustling markets.

Famous Street Stalls in Marrakech-Safi

Djemaa el-Fna Square: This square in Marrakech is a hub of street food vendors offering Moroccan specialties.

Essaouira Port: The fishing port of Essaouira has many stalls serving fresh seafood.

Where to Stay in Marrakech-Safi

Riad Joya Marrakech: A luxurious riad in Marrakech with stunning architecture and personalized service.

Heure Bleue Palais Essaouira: A beautiful hotel in Essaouira, offering a blend of modern comfort and Moroccan charm.

Auberge Kaouki El Jadida: A cozy and budget-friendly guesthouse in El Jadida.

Travel Tips for Marrakech-Safi

Language: Arabic and French are the official languages, and English is also widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available.

Dress Code: Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Bartering: It’s common to negotiate prices when shopping in souks and markets.

Marrakech-Safi is a region that invites you to explore its rich history, experience its vibrant culture, and savor its exquisite cuisine. Let this guide be your companion as you embark on a remarkable journey through this captivating part of Morocco.

You might also enjoy:

Inírida travel guide: all you need to know, aurangabad travel guide: all you need to know, wiltz canton travel guide: all you need to know, discovering valga county: estonia’s borderland gem, leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around

Safi or Asfi is a city in western Morocco on the Atlantic Ocean. About 310,000 people live there (2014).

Understand edit

The town is locally pronounced as "Asfi".

Safi is the main fishing port for the country's sardine industry. The town also has exports for phosphates, textiles and ceramics. It is certainly an industrial town, with a considerably smaller tourist trade.

You will likely encounter guides offering their services around the major tourist spots. You may find them helpful for navigation and to get an all-around understanding of the city and its history.

Get in edit

By plane edit.

Three international airports are about the same distance to Safi:

• Casablanca (CMN) to the north
• Essaouira (ESU) to the south
• Marrakech (RAK) to the east

By train edit

ONCF , the state-owned rail company, has a train station in Safi. However, in 2023 the station was listed as temporarily closed.

By bus edit

CTM , Morocco’s public bus system, has a station in Safi.

By car edit

Get around edit.

• 32.29694 -9.23968 1 National Museum of Ceramics , Rue Al Medina El Mounawara ( southeast of the medina ), ☏ +212 5244-63967 . 10:00-18:00, except Tu . Examples of Safi ceramics. However, descriptions are only in French and Arabic. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• 32.31689 -9.25615 2 Safi Beach . Head to the northern end of the city to enjoy a sandy beach. There is even a surf school offering daily or weekly lessons, or renting boards. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• 32.30215 -9.23805 1 Pottery Quarter ( Colline des Potiers ) ( by Bab Chaaba gate ). Wander the stalls along the street and see the handicraft the town is famous for. Be sure to buy a small piece or give a tip if you are invited to watch a potter work. ( updated Feb 2024 )

Being a coastal city, fresh seafood is a common dish. There are also tagines, a slow cooked stew, harira, a traditional soup, and couscous.

• 32.29468 -9.23151 1 Glass House , 16 Lotissement Bouzoubaa Immeuble Hanaa Ville nouvelle , ☏ +212 5246-10088 . Modern coffee shop with ice cream and internet. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• 32.30248 -9.23271 1 Hôtel Valley Boutique , ☏ +212 5246-12819 . Modern hotel near the stadium. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• 32.30386 -9.24401 2 Riad du Pêcheur , 1 rue de la crete , ☏ +212 6718-15570 . Across the road from the fishing port and next to a park. Free breakfast, wifi. Rooftop terrace. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• 32.29811 -9.24542 3 Riad Le Cheval Blanc Hôtel , 26 Derb El Kaouss , ☏ +212 5244-64527 . South of the old town, near the ocean. Enjoy traditional cuisine and lounge on the patio. ( updated Feb 2024 )

Connect edit

Go next edit.

• Head south to Essaouira , a coastal city which was once a hippie hangout

The Best Time to Visit Safi, Morocco for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Safi for ideal weather are

February 19th to June 24th

September 3rd to december 30th.

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Safi Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Safi Travel Info

Weather in safi.

Average temperatures in Safi vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel very enjoyable all year with a very low chance of rain or snow throughout the year. The area is more temperate than most — in the 78th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Safi, the hottest months are August, July, and then September. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early to mid August where highs are regularly around 88.5°F (31.4°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 70.6°F (21.4°C) at night.

Safi Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Safi temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Safi Perceived Temperature (F)

Safi perceived temperature (c), average safi temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Safi are July, August, and then June. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around late May to early June. For example, on the week of May 28th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late November to early December with an average of 2 days of significant precipitation the week of November 26th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Safi.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Safi (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Safi has some high humidity months, with other comfortably humid months. The least humid month is July (53.2% relative humidity), and the most humid month is January (68.2%).

Wind in Safi is usually moderate . The windiest month is July, followed by June and August. July’s average wind speed of around 9.2 knots (10.6 MPH or 17 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in mid July where average top sustained speeds reach 12.4 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Safi.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to safi.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for Morocco; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 06, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Safi, Morocco is September, followed by November and March. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Safi in October. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall safi travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 82.5°F (28.1°C) and 68.7°F (20.4°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with 2 to 4 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the least precipitation with about 0 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the slowest season for tourism in Safi, so lodging and other accommodations may cost less than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 82°F (27.8°C) and 67.6°F (19.8°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a normal amount: 1 to 5 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is somewhat cool this time of year in Safi to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 68.7°F (20.4°C) and 64.5°F (18.1°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 3 to 5 times per month. These times of year are the second busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Morocco › Safi, Morocco

Similar Destinations

• Asfi, Morocco
• Souira Guedima, Morocco
• Oualidia, Morocco
• Doukkala-Abda, Morocco
• Akermoud, Morocco
• Essaouira, Morocco
• Ahl Agadir, Morocco
• Sidi Kaouki, Morocco
• Marrakesh-Tensift-El Haouz, Morocco
• El Jadida, Morocco

Popular Destinations

• Takua Pa, Thailand
• Hengchun, Taiwan
• Vientiane, Laos