Safi is a port city on Morocco's Atlantic coast, known for its fishing harbour, its ceramics industry and its long-standing role as a working port rather than a resort town. The city spreads between the ocean and the hills behind it, with the old medina and the port at its core.
For a visitor, the practical question is whether to base yourself near the water and the old town, or further out near the stadium and the newer parts of the city. This guide covers the areas the sources identify, what each is like, and which level of accommodation you can expect to find there.
Best areas to stay in Safi
1. The Medina and the oceanfront
The medina sits inside the old town, close to the ocean, and is the most atmospheric part of Safi to base yourself in. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the historic core and the water, and the area suits visitors who want to be in the thick of the city rather than in a quieter residential quarter.
Accommodation here is small-scale and traditional in style, with terraces and proximity to the sea. Note that the streets of a medina are narrow and not designed for cars, so plan on walking once you are inside.
2. The fishing port area
The area around the fishing port is a working waterfront, busy with the daily life of the harbour. It suits travellers who want to be close to the port and within easy reach of the medina and the seafront.
Places to stay here tend to be small and locally run, and you may find yourself across the road from the port and next to a park. This is a practical base if your interest is the harbour and the old town rather than nightlife or shopping.
3. Near the stadium
The area around the stadium lies away from the historic core and the port, in a more modern part of the city. It suits visitors who prefer newer, more conventional accommodation and who do not mind being outside the medina.
Accommodation here is of the modern hotel type rather than the traditional riad style. Because it is removed from the old town and the waterfront, you will rely on transport to reach the medina and the port.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: small, simply run places, including rooms in traditional houses; expect basic furnishings and shared or simple facilities.
- Mid-range: modern hotels and small traditional guesthouses with private rooms, often with a terrace and breakfast included.
- Splurge: the sources for Safi do not describe a luxury tier, so the top of the local range is likely to be a well-appointed modern hotel or a carefully kept traditional house rather than an international resort.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the medina and oceanfront area. It puts you inside the old town and within reach of the water, which is what most visitors come to Safi to see. From there you can walk to the port and the historic core rather than depending on transport.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stay inside the medina or near the stadium?
Stay in the medina if you want to be close to the old town and the ocean and are happy to walk. Stay near the stadium if you prefer modern accommodation and do not mind being further from the historic core.
Is the fishing port area a good base?
Yes, if you want to be on the working waterfront and within easy reach of the medina. It is a port area rather than a quiet residential one, so expect the activity that comes with that.
What kind of accommodation will I find in Safi?
The sources describe modern hotels and small traditional houses, some with terraces and breakfast included. There is no indication of large international resorts in the city.
Do I need transport to get around?
If you stay in the medina or near the port, the old town and the waterfront are within walking distance. If you stay near the stadium, you will need transport to reach the medina and the port.
Compare live prices and availability for the areas above using the booking tools on this page.