The medina of Essaouira, the only one in Morocco to be laid out on a grid plan with wide, rectilinear avenues, was inspired by European urban planning theories from the Age of Enlightenment. This rigour is tempered by whimsical crooked lanes and dead-ends. An incredibly vibrant, colourful and mysterious life takes place behind its austere white facades. You can expect a museum, art galleries, as well as authentic stalls and of course the famous souks.