Essaouira is is famous throughout Morocco for their artisana products. There are numerous workshops hidden in the tiny and winding passageways of the ancient medina where you can watch artists using age old methods.

Workshops of wood carving and marquetry are located along the Rue de Skala. Local wood called thuya is used in the unique artisanal products. Thuya resembles mahogany and is becoming scarce in the region.

The Pottery Quarter is situated on Safi hill and at almost any given time of day you will find dozens of potters working away. Local clay is used for the pottery and is quite chalky and very rich in iron oxide. The Soaking, drying and kneading of the clay makes the process rather lengthy, and visitors are welcome to watch as long as they wish.

Souk Jdid is organized like the souks found in Marrakech, according to their specialty. Different souks include the markets of meats, fish, vegetables and fruits, spices, jewelery, fabrics, and even grain markets. The souks were much more prosperous when the Jewish community was active in Essaouira.