In this guide we'll take you through its history-filled streets, its most iconic landmarks and its fishing port. You'll also discover why this is a great destination for adventurers who enjoy outdoor activities.
1. Getting to Safi and moving around town
Safi sits between Casablanca and Essaouira, making it an accessible destination from several parts of the country. Although it doesn't have its own airport, the city can be reached through various means of transport, each with its own advantages depending on your starting point and the kind of trip you want to make.
From Marrakech
This is one of the most commonly used gateways for travellers wishing to visit the city. It has an international airport well connected to multiple destinations in Europe and beyond. Once you land (or if you're already in the area), you can use several means of transport:
By car or private taxi
The distance between Marrakech and Safi is roughly 150 km, and the trip takes between 2 and 2 h 30 min along the N8 and R301 roads. Choosing a private taxi or a rental car lets you enjoy greater comfort and flexibility to stop along the way.
By coach
Several companies, such as CTM and Supratours, connect both towns, but in most cases they stop in Essaouira along the way. The trip takes around 7 hours.
From Casablanca
Casablanca is Morocco's main air and economic hub, so many other visitors arrive in the country through its international Mohammed V airport.
By car or private taxi
The distance is 240 km, with a travel time of around 2 h 30 min along the A1 motorway and the N1 road.
By train
ONCF runs trains from Casablanca to Safi's train station, taking an average of 5 hours.
By coach
Regular services run this route. The trip takes about 3 h 30 min.
From Essaouira
Essaouira is just 120 km away, making it one of the shortest routes to reach the city.
By car or private taxi
The coastal R301 road connects both cities in around 1 h 45 min. This journey is especially appealing, as it offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and unique natural scenery.
By coach
Regular services connect Essaouira and Safi in about 2 hours, making it an affordable, practical option.
From El Jadida
El Jadida is another relatively nearby coastal city.
By car or private taxi
The 140 km distance can be covered in around 1 h 30 min along the N1 road.
By coach
Coaches connecting El Jadida and Safi take between 2 and 2 h 30 min, depending on traffic and stops.
Getting around Safi
Safi is a fairly compact city, which makes getting between its main attractions easy. Here are the best ways to get around town:
On foot
Its historic centre, the Medina, is ideal for exploring on foot. Many of its streets are narrow and pedestrian-only, letting you explore its corners without needing transport. Places such as the Sea Castle, the Great Mosque and Potters' Hill are all within short distance of each other.
By taxi
The small red taxis are the most practical way to get around the city. They're affordable and easy to find, with regulated, accessible fares. They run on a meter within the city, but on longer trips you may need to negotiate the price with the driver.
By bus
Safi has an urban bus system, although its frequency and coverage are limited. It can be an affordable option for getting between outlying neighbourhoods and the centre, but for tourists taxis or walking are generally recommended.
Car rental
This can be a good option for those wishing to explore the surrounding area and take trips to beaches such as Lalla Fatna or Cap Beddouza. Within the city, however, it isn't the most convenient choice due to heavy traffic and a lack of parking in the old town.
Safi isn't part of any of our routes. If you'd like to add it to your trip, drop us a line and we'll look into it.
Tell us about your trip2. A brief history of Safi
Safi is one of Morocco's oldest cities, with a history spanning more than 2,000 years. Its location on the Atlantic coast has made it a key point for different civilisations over the centuries, from the Phoenicians to the Portuguese and Moroccan sultans.
Origins and the Phoenician era
The first settlements in the area date back to the Phoenician era (6th century BC). It is believed the Phoenicians established a trading port here thanks to its access to the Atlantic and trade routes with other regions of Africa and the Mediterranean.
Roman period and the rise of trade
During the Roman occupation (1st century AD to 4th century AD), Safi was part of the kingdom of Mauretania Tingitana and remained an important trading hub. Although there is less Roman archaeological evidence here than in other Moroccan cities, its influence on the area was clear.
Islamic rule and the Almohad dynasty
With the spread of Islam across North Africa, the city became part of the territories controlled by Muslims in the 7th century. Under the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century, the city saw a surge in development, with the construction of mosques and defensive walls. This was a key period in its rise as a strategic port.
Portuguese occupation (1508-1541)
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1508, the takeover
The Portuguese took control of Safi as part of their expansion strategy along Morocco's Atlantic coast.
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The fortifications
During this period they built the Sea Castle and Borj el Dar, which can still be visited today.
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1541, the withdrawal
After the fall of the fortress of Agadir, the Portuguese abandoned Safi, leaving behind their architectural and military legacy.
The modern era and craft development
From the 16th century to the present day, the city has kept its importance as a trading port and centre of craft production, especially in traditional Moroccan pottery. During the French colonial era (1912-1956), the city underwent industrial development without losing its cultural and artistic essence.
Today, Safi is renowned for its pottery, its historical heritage and its fishing community. It's a fascinating destination for travellers wanting to discover a less touristy, but equally rich, side of Morocco.
3. The climate in Safi
The climate is Mediterranean with oceanic influence, meaning temperatures are mild for much of the year.
Summer
Temperatures sit around 25-30°C, though the Atlantic breeze helps keep the air pleasant, ideal for wandering the city or enjoying the beaches. Summer months are popular, especially with surf lovers: beaches such as Lalla Fatna offer great waves for the sport.
Winter
Temperatures drop to around 12-18°C, offering a mild, comfortable climate. Although rainfall is moderate, it's still possible to enjoy the city without high temperatures, making it a suitable destination all year round.
Best season
Spring and autumn, when temperatures range between 20-25°C. These seasons are perfect for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities, explore historic landmarks or visit the famous Potters' Hill. The city is also less crowded with tourists during these months.
4. The Medina: a walk through the historic centre
Safi's heart lies in its historic centre, the Medina, a place where time seems to have stood still. Walking its narrow, winding streets is like travelling back in time, surrounded by white houses and buildings of traditional Moroccan architecture that reflect the city's cultural wealth. This old town is a showcase of its history and importance through the centuries.
16th-century walls
Inside, visitors will find numerous key sites, such as the Great Mosque of Safi, a perfect example of Islamic architecture, and the Sea Castle.
5. The Sea Castle: a fortress with spectacular views
The Sea Castle (Qasr al-Bahr) is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, and its history is closely tied to the Portuguese occupation in the 16th century.
This fortress was built to defend the city from attacks by sea. It served as a key watchpoint, protecting the trade routes connecting Morocco with Europe and other parts of Africa.
Its main role was to control access to Safi's port, ensuring the safety of ships docking along its shores. Thanks to its elevated position, it offered a full view of the ocean and its surroundings, making it an impenetrable stronghold against invaders. To this day, its walls and towers still stand, a reminder of the city's glorious military past.
Climb the walls at sunset
6. The Great Mosque of Safi: a testament to faith and art
The Great Mosque of Safi is one of the city's most important religious landmarks, and its history dates back to the 12th century, during the Almohad dynasty.
This mosque was built as a symbol of the city's growth as a religious and trading centre, drawing merchants and travellers from different regions. Its architecture reflects the influence of Islamic tradition, combining simple elements with unique artistic details.
What it looks like inside
7. Potters' Hill: the heart of Safi's pottery
This is one of the city's most iconic sites and the nerve centre of its famous pottery production. For centuries, this city has been internationally recognised for its ceramic art. This hill is home to most of the workshops where craftspeople continue to perfect their traditional techniques.
Clay from the neighbouring hills
Visiting Potters' Hill offers the chance to watch craftspeople at work in their workshops, shaping the clay and decorating each piece with care. Many workshops also let visitors take part in the process, creating their own souvenirs.
8. The National Ceramics Museum: history and craft tradition
The National Ceramics Museum is a space dedicated to preserving and showcasing the city's rich craft tradition. Housed in a former palace, it holds a large collection of pieces showing the evolution of ceramic art in the country, from the oldest methods to the modern techniques that still fascinate visitors.
Inside the museum, visitors will find exhibits that go far beyond functional pottery like plates and vases. Decorative pieces are also on display, adorned with geometric and floral patterns that reflect the Islamic influence on Moroccan art. The collections include both contemporary works and antiques of great historical value.
The standout pieces
9. The port of Safi: maritime activity and fishing life
This is one of the city's main economic engines, and its daily life revolves around fishing activity, which is an integral part of the region's identity. With a tradition going back centuries, it remains a place where you can watch the everyday life of local fishermen and the constant coming and going of fishing boats.
Catch the day's landing
10. Safi's beaches: surfing and relaxing on the Atlantic coast
The best-known beach is Lalla Fatna, located a few kilometres north of the city, famous for its impressive waves that draw surfers from around the world. In fact, it's a well-known destination within the surf community.
Besides surfing, it offers peaceful spots where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the coast. The rock formations and nearby cliffs add a special charm to the landscape, making it a perfect place for relaxing walks and enjoying the sunset over the Atlantic.
And a quieter alternative
11. Borj el Dar: the 16th-century Portuguese fortress
This fortress was designed to defend the city from potential attacks by sea and land, playing a key role in protecting the port and the trade routes. With its thick walls and watchtowers, it's a testament to the Portuguese military architecture of the time.
From its terraces, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city, making it an ideal spot to capture stunning photos of the coastal landscape.
Today it hosts exhibitions
12. What to see near Safi
Oualidia lagoon
About 60 km to the north, a natural refuge ideal for lovers of calm, birdwatching and fresh oysters. The lagoon, surrounded by hills and beaches, offers a relaxed setting perfect for enjoying nature.
Essaouira's argan forest
A few hours away by car. Here you can discover the famous argan tree and visit cooperatives that produce argan oil by hand, supporting local communities.
13. Local food
With its coastal location, Safi is especially known for its fresh seafood, considered among the best in all of Morocco. Moroccan flavours, with their aromatic spices and local produce, come together in dishes that delight any visitor's palate.
Traditional dishes
Fish tagine
An exquisite combination of fresh fish, spices and vegetables, slow-cooked.
Seafood pastilla
A local take on the famous filo pastry pie, filled with seafood.
Grilled sardines
Also very popular, with Safi being one of the best places to try this classic Moroccan dish.
Local markets are full of fresh produce from the sea, making this the ideal destination for seafood lovers. Don't miss trying the fresh octopus and squid, prepared in various ways that bring out their natural flavours.
Recommended restaurants
Le Filet du Pêcheur
Known for its fresh seafood dishes.
Chez Hosni
A cosy spot where tagines and the day's catch take centre stage.
El Bahri
Famous for its setting by the port and its traditional Moroccan dishes.
14. General tips for visiting Safi
If you're planning to visit Safi, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience in this charming coastal city.
- Use taxis to get around the city: they're very affordable and let you move quickly between the main points of interest. Although walking is a great way to explore the old town and its narrow, history-filled streets, taxis are ideal if you want to visit nearby beaches or the fishing port.
- Don't forget to carry cash, as many local markets and restaurants don't accept cards.
- If you're interested in pottery, Potters' Hill is the perfect place to buy unique, authentic pieces from local craftspeople.
