Safi

The capital of Moroccan ceramics, between a Portuguese fortress and powerful waves

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Safi is a port city on the Atlantic coast, long one of the country's main sardine ports and above all the capital of Moroccan ceramics. On the potters' hill, artisans shape and glaze the colourful pieces the town is famous for. The medina blends Portuguese, Moroccan and Jewish influences, with the Portuguese sea fortress and the national ceramics museum. Little visited, Safi is easy to explore in a day, between Oualidia to the north and Essaouira to the south.

Ideal stay: 1 to 2 days
Best season: Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct
Budget per day: from 280 MAD
Region: Atlantic coast
Travel style: Culture, Shopping, Budget, Adventure
Best for: Craft and heritage lovers, experienced surfers, road-trippers along the coast

Why go

The potters' hill and its workshops
The national ceramics museum and its ocean view
An authentic medina, away from the crowds

Beach and surf

Safi beach
North of the port, lively at weekends. Waves can be big and powerful: beginners should avoid big-swell days.

Things to see

Potters' hill
A district of workshops where you can watch ceramics being thrown, fired and glazed. Agree on the price of a guided visit in advance.
National Ceramics Museum
Moroccan ceramic collections in a fortress overlooking the medina, with a terrace facing the ocean.
Portuguese fortress (Ksar el Bahr)
A 16th-century fort built at the water's edge during the Portuguese period; visible from the seafront.

Things to do

Buy ceramics
Workshops on the hill sell directly, often for less than in the big cities.

Food

Sardines and fish from the port, grilled or in tagines.

Where to stay

Medina and seafront
Small riads and hotels with views, within walking distance of the sights.

Book a place to stay in Safi

Riads, hotels and guesthouses: compare current prices and availability on Booking.com.

See places to stay

Prices and availability change: check them before you book. Booking.com links are affiliate links: if you book, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Day trips

Oualidia
Day trip
The lagoon and its oysters, about an hour north.
Essaouira
Day trip
The UNESCO medina, about two hours south.

Getting around

Motorway from El Jadida and Casablanca; about two and a half hours from Marrakech or El Jadida, two hours from Essaouira. CTM coaches and grands taxis.

Book your transport

Official operator websites and coach station timetables: check your journey and book.