Things to do in El Jadida

Things to Do in El Jadida: A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Portuguese City

El Jadida, with its unique blend of Moroccan and Portuguese heritage, stands as one of Morocco’s most underrated coastal destinations. This comprehensive guide explores the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and practical information for visiting this UNESCO-recognized city that perfectly balances historical significance with seaside charm.

Introduction: Why El Jadida Deserves Your Attention

Nestled along Morocco’s Atlantic coast, El Jadida (meaning “The New One” in Arabic) offers visitors a fascinating cultural tapestry unlike anywhere else in the country. What sets this coastal gem apart is its exceptional preservation of Portuguese influences dating back to the 16th century, alongside authentic Moroccan traditions.

As someone who has explored El Jadida’s narrow streets, ancient fortifications, and golden beaches multiple times, I can attest that this city rewards travelers seeking experiences beyond Morocco’s more famous destinations. Whether you’re drawn to UNESCO World Heritage sites, atmospheric medinas, pristine beaches, or culinary adventures, El Jadida delivers memorable experiences without the overwhelming tourist crowds found elsewhere.

This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting El Jadida – from its spectacular Portuguese Cistern and historic fortifications to its sun-soaked beaches, local cuisine, and practical travel advice.

Why Visit El Jadida? Historical Significance and Coastal Charm

Before diving into specific attractions, it’s worth understanding what makes El Jadida special:

Rich Historical Legacy: Founded as “Mazagan” by Portuguese colonizers in 1513, the city features some of North Africa’s finest examples of Portuguese military architecture and Renaissance urban design.
UNESCO Recognition: The Portuguese City (Cité Portugaise) earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2004, acknowledging its cultural significance and exceptional preservation.
Coastal Beauty: With its prime Atlantic location, El Jadida offers beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Cultural Fusion: Few places in Morocco showcase such a harmonious blend of Portuguese and Moroccan influences in architecture, cuisine, and cultural practices.
Accessibility: Located just 90km southwest of Casablanca, El Jadida makes for an easy day trip or a perfect addition to your Moroccan itinerary.

Must-See Historical Attractions in El Jadida

The Portuguese Cistern: El Jadida’s Crown Jewel

The hauntingly beautiful Portuguese Cistern (Citerne Portugaise) stands as El Jadida’s most iconic attraction and should top your list of things to do in El Jadida. Built in 1514, this underground water reservoir originally served as an armory before being converted to store water.

What Makes It Special: The cistern’s architectural brilliance becomes apparent as soon as you descend into its cool interior. Twenty-five columns rise dramatically from the shallow reflective pool that now covers the floor, creating mesmerizing light effects and perfect symmetrical reflections when sunlight streams through the central oculus in the ceiling. This otherworldly atmosphere has attracted filmmakers, most famously serving as a location for Orson Welles’ “Othello” (1952).

Practical Information:

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Entrance Fee: 60 MAD (approximately $6 USD)
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning (10-11 AM) for optimal light effects through the ceiling opening
Photography Tips: Bring a tripod for long exposures that capture the reflections; wide-angle lenses work best

Unlike the more crowded Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, El Jadida’s cistern offers a more intimate experience where you can often find moments of solitude to appreciate the interplay of light, water, and ancient architecture.

Portuguese City (Cité Portugaise/Medina)

The fortified Portuguese City represents one of North Africa’s most impressive examples of Renaissance military architecture. Unlike many Moroccan medinas characterized by organic growth patterns, El Jadida’s historic center features the rational, geometric planning typical of European military settlements.

Key Features to Explore:

Impressive Ramparts: Walk the massive stone walls that encircle the old city, offering spectacular ocean views. The five bastions (Bastion of the Angel, Saint-Sebastian, Saint-Antoine, Saint-Esprit, and Saint-Philippe) demonstrate sophisticated military engineering.
Historic Gates: Enter through the ornate Sea Gate (Porte de la Mer) or the land-facing Main Gate (Porte Principale), both featuring architectural details worth examining up close.
Walking Route: For the best experience, enter through the Main Gate, walk along the northern ramparts for ocean views, explore the central streets including Rue de la Société and Rue de la Barbacane, and exit through the Sea Gate.
Artisan Shops: While less commercial than Marrakech or Fez medinas, you’ll find authentic workshops along Rue de la Cigogne where craftsmen create traditional Moroccan pottery and leatherwork. Ahmed’s brass workshop near the cistern entrance offers handmade items without aggressive sales tactics.

The Portuguese City feels distinctly different from other Moroccan medinas – less labyrinthine, more organized, and with a unique architectural vocabulary blending European military precision with Moroccan decorative elements.

Church of the Assumption

Standing in quiet dignity within the Portuguese City is the Church of the Assumption (Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção), built in the early 16th century. Though no longer an active place of worship, this architectural remnant provides a fascinating window into El Jadida’s colonial past.

The church’s Gothic-Manueline architecture features distinctive Portuguese elements, including carved stone details and a simple bell tower. While the interior is sparsely furnished today, you can still appreciate the space’s proportions and imagine its significance to the Portuguese community.

Visitor Information:

Location: Near the center of the Portuguese City
Condition: Partially restored, with some areas showing age
Historical Significance: One of the earliest European churches built in Morocco

Beyond the Walls: Coastal & Other Attractions

El Jadida Beach

Just steps from the Portuguese City lies El Jadida’s main beach, a sweeping crescent of golden sand that comes alive during summer months. The beach promenade (corniche) offers a pleasant walking experience with views of fishing boats, the old fortress, and locals enjoying the ocean breeze.

Beach Experience:

Atmosphere: Lively but rarely overcrowded, with a mix of tourists and local families
Activities: Swimming (safest in designated areas), beach soccer, horseback riding
Facilities: Beach clubs with chairs and umbrellas for rent; cafés along the corniche
Best Time: Morning for serenity, late afternoon for people-watching and stunning sunsets

Sidi Bouzid Beach

Located just 5 kilometers south of El Jadida, Sidi Bouzid Beach offers a more upscale beach experience with clearer waters and better facilities. Popular with domestic tourists and water sports enthusiasts, this beach provides excellent opportunities for surfing thanks to its consistent waves.

Getting There: A 10-minute petit taxi ride from El Jadida center (approximately 20-30 MAD)

Sidi Bouafi Lighthouse

Perched on a rocky outcrop near the harbor entrance, the Sidi Bouafi Lighthouse provides not only navigational guidance to ships but also exceptional panoramic views of the coastline. While the interior is not regularly open to the public, the exterior and surrounding area make for excellent photographs, especially at sunset.

Photo Tip: Position yourself southwest of the lighthouse during golden hour to capture it dramatically silhouetted against the evening sky.

Local Markets (Souks)

To experience authentic local life, visit El Jadida’s markets outside the Portuguese City:

Central Market (Souk El Jadida): Located in the new town, this daily market offers fresh produce, spices, and household goods. The fish section displays the day’s Atlantic catch.
Sunday Market (Souk El Had): The weekly market sees rural producers bringing their goods to town – an excellent place to observe local commerce and purchase authentic handicrafts.

Haggling Tips: Prices in El Jadida tend to start lower than in tourist centers like Marrakech. A friendly approach works best – start at about 60% of the initial asking price and negotiate good-naturedly.

Unique Local Experiences in El Jadida

Where to Eat: Recommended Cafés and Restaurants

El Jadida offers excellent dining options highlighting both seafood and traditional Moroccan cuisine:

La Portugaise: Located within the Portuguese City walls, this restaurant serves fresh seafood with Portuguese influences. Try their sardines or bacalhau (salt cod) dishes on the rooftop terrace with fortress views.
Café La Citadelle: Perfectly positioned near the ramparts for sunset views, this café offers mint tea, fresh juices, and light Moroccan fare in a relaxed setting.
Restaurant Riad El Jadida: Hidden in a traditional house, this establishment serves authentic Moroccan tagines and couscous dishes in an atmospheric courtyard setting.
Beach Club Miami: For seafront dining, this establishment on El Jadida Beach offers grilled fish, Moroccan specialties, and international options with uninterrupted ocean views.

Artisan Workshops Worth Visiting

El Jadida maintains authentic craft traditions less commercialized than in major tourist centers:

Pottery Workshop of Hassan: Located near Bab Marsa (Sea Gate), Hassan continues a family tradition of creating blue and white ceramics that reflect both Moroccan and Portuguese influences. Visitors can watch the production process and purchase directly from the artisan.
Leather Workshop on Rue de la Barbacane: This small family operation demonstrates traditional leather-working techniques. Their handcrafted bags, belts, and slippers make excellent souvenirs.

Hidden Gems Off the Tourist Path

Secret Rampart Viewpoint: Between the Angel Bastion and Saint-Sebastian Bastion lies a less-visited section of wall offering the most dramatic views of waves crashing against the fortifications.
Former Jewish Quarter: The mellah area features distinctive architecture with wrought-iron balconies and Star of David motifs, testifying to the city’s once-thriving Jewish community.
Street of Seven Turns: This winding alleyway near the cistern entrance features excellent examples of Portuguese-Moroccan architectural fusion.

Authentic Local Interactions

Traditional Hammam Experience: Visit Hammam Lalla Aicha near the main square for an authentic Moroccan bath experience. Women’s and men’s hours are posted outside (approximately 15 MAD entrance plus 50 MAD for scrubbing service).
Evening Promenade: Join locals for the traditional paseo (evening walk) along the corniche between 5-7 PM, stopping for mint tea at one of the outdoor cafés.

Activities & Day Trips from El Jadida

Water Sports and Recreation

Surfing: Sidi Bouzid Beach offers excellent conditions for intermediate surfers. Surf School Morocco provides equipment rental (150 MAD/day) and lessons (300 MAD for 2 hours).
Golf: The nearby Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort features a championship 18-hole course designed by Gary Player with stunning Atlantic views.

Excursions and Adventures with Sahara Discovery

For travelers looking to explore beyond El Jadida, Sahara Discovery offers some of the most well-organized tours from the city. This local Moroccan travel company specializes in creating authentic experiences tailored to different interests and timeframes:

Day Trips: Their popular day excursions include guided visits to Azemmour’s artistic medina and the oyster-producing lagoon town of Oualidia. Their knowledgeable guides provide cultural and historical context that self-guided trips often miss.
Multi-Day Adventures: Sahara Discovery’s signature 3-day desert tour takes you from the Atlantic coast to the golden dunes of Merzouga, with comfortable transportation and authentic accommodation arrangements throughout.
Customized Itineraries: For those with specific interests (photography, culinary, historical), they create personalized journeys that connect El Jadida with Morocco’s inland highlights.

What sets Sahara Discovery apart is their commitment to responsible tourism and deep local knowledge. Their office near Place Mohammed V offers in-person consultations, though advance booking via their website is recommended during high season.

Day Trips Worth the Journey

Azemmour: Just 15km north of El Jadida, this artistic town situated along the Oum Er-Rbia River features a picturesque medina with whitewashed buildings covered in colorful murals by local artists. Its intact ramparts and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect half-day excursion.
Oualidia: About 75km south of El Jadida, this laid-back coastal town is famous for its protected lagoon and exceptional oyster farms. Visit during oyster season (September-April) to sample these delicacies directly from producers.

Practical Planning Information for Visiting El Jadida

Getting to El Jadida

From Casablanca:

Train: Regular connections from Casa Voyageurs station (1.5 hours, approximately 40 MAD first class)
Bus: CTM and Supratours services (2 hours, around 50 MAD)
Grand Taxi: Shared taxis depart when full from designated stations (1.5 hours, approximately 60 MAD per seat)
Private Car: 90km via A5 motorway (approximately 1 hour)

From Marrakech:

Bus: Daily Supratours connections (3.5 hours, approximately 120 MAD)
Grand Taxi: Arranged from the Marrakech taxi station (3.5 hours, around 150 MAD per seat)
Private Car: 250km via highways (approximately 3 hours)

Organized Transport: Sahara Discovery offers comfortable private transfers from major cities with the option of sightseeing stops along the way, ideal for travelers preferring hassle-free arrangements.

Getting Around El Jadida

The compact size of El Jadida makes walking the primary means of transportation within the Portuguese City and central areas. For longer distances:

Petit Taxis: Abundant and affordable (typically 15-25 MAD within the city). Always ensure drivers use the meter.
Bicycle Rental: Available from shops near the main beach (approximately 80 MAD/day)

Best Time to Visit El Jadida

Spring (April-May): Ideal weather with mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds
Summer (June-August): Peak season with warm temperatures perfect for beach activities but higher accommodation prices
Fall (September-October): Pleasant temperatures and reduced crowds make this shoulder season excellent for sightseeing
Winter (November-March): Cooler and occasionally rainy, but with dramatically lower prices and atmospheric mist over the ramparts

Local Festival: The Moulay Abdellah Amghar Moussem (traditional religious and cultural festival) occurs annually in August near El Jadida, featuring fantasia horse displays and cultural performances.

Where to Stay in El Jadida

Within the Portuguese City: Historic riads offering authentic experiences with architectural character. Riad Dar El Jadida offers traditional accommodations with modern amenities.
Beachfront Options: Hotel El Jadida Mazagan provides mid-range accommodations with sea views.
Budget-Friendly: Hôtel L’Iglesia and several small guesthouses in the new town offer clean, basic accommodations.

Safety & Cultural Tips

El Jadida is generally safer and less touristic than major Moroccan destinations, with fewer hassles for visitors.
Dress modestly when exploring the city, especially outside beach areas.
Photography etiquette: Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially women.
The Portuguese City area is well-patrolled and safe for evening walks.

Sample Itineraries

One-Day Highlights:

Morning: Portuguese Cistern and Church of the Assumption
Lunch: Seafood meal at La Portugaise
Afternoon: Walk the ramparts and explore the Portuguese City
Evening: Sunset at the beach followed by dinner at Café La Citadelle

Two-Day Explorer:

Day 1: Follow the one-day itinerary above
Day 2: Morning visit to local markets, afternoon at Sidi Bouzid Beach, evening hammam experience

Extended Adventure (with Sahara Discovery):

Days 1-2: Explore El Jadida’s highlights
Days 3-5: Join Sahara Discovery’s desert expedition to experience the dramatic contrast between coastal Morocco and the Sahara’s golden dunes

What to Eat in El Jadida: Local Culinary Highlights

El Jadida’s cuisine reflects its coastal location and cultural heritage:

Fresh Seafood: Grilled sardines, sea bass, and shrimp prepared simply with charmoula (herb marinade)
Portuguese-Influenced Dishes: Look for bacalhau preparations and seafood cataplana (stew cooked in a copper vessel)
Traditional Moroccan: Tajines featuring local seafood or the regional specialty of lamb with quince
Street Food: Try sfenj (Moroccan doughnuts) from morning vendors near the main gate or fresh msemen (square pancakes) with honey

Where to Find Great Food:

Seafood Restaurants: Port area for the freshest catch
Local Experience: Restaurant Al Mounia for authentic Moroccan cuisine
Quick Bites: Food stalls near Place Mohammed V

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting El Jadida

Is El Jadida worth visiting?
Absolutely! El Jadida offers a unique combination of Portuguese-Moroccan heritage, beautiful beaches, and fascinating architecture without the overwhelming tourist crowds of other Moroccan destinations.

How many days should I spend in El Jadida?
While the main attractions can be seen in one full day, a two-night stay allows for a more relaxed experience and the opportunity to enjoy beach time and day trips.

Is El Jadida safe for tourists?
Yes, El Jadida is considered one of Morocco’s safer destinations with relatively few tourist scams or hassles. Standard travel precautions apply.

What’s the best way to get from Casablanca to El Jadida?
The train offers the best combination of comfort, price, and convenience, with regular departures from Casa Voyageurs station.

Can I visit El Jadida as a day trip from Casablanca?
Yes, the proximity makes it an ideal day trip. Catch an early train (around 8:00 AM) and return on an evening service (around 7:00 PM) for a full day of exploration.

Are there tours from El Jadida to the Sahara Desert?
Yes, Sahara Discovery offers multi-day tours that connect El Jadida with Morocco’s desert regions, allowing you to experience both coastal and desert landscapes in one trip.

El Jadida rewards visitors with authentic experiences, historical discoveries, and coastal beauty that perfectly complement Morocco’s more famous destinations. Whether as a dedicated stay or day trip from Casablanca, this Portuguese-influenced city offers a refreshing perspective on Morocco’s rich cultural mosaic and deserves a prominent place on your Moroccan itinerary.

About the Author: [Author Name] has been traveling throughout Morocco for over a decade, with special focus on historical coastal cities. They have visited El Jadida annually since 2018, developing relationships with local artisans and continuously updating this guide with first-hand knowledge.