Things to do in Asilah

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Asilah

Types of activities

Where to stay

Asilah Travel Guide

The corner next to Atlantic Ocean
#blue #Morocco #Asilah

If you're staying in Asilah, don't forget to watch the sunset. The colors are stunning. There is a rocky pier where you can sit, relax and enjoy the view.

Asilah (Arabic: أصيلة،‎‎ Aṣīla; Berber: ⴰⵥⵉⵍⴰ Aẓila; "authentic", Portuguese: Arzila, Spanish: Arcila) is a fortified town on the northwest tip of the Atlantic coast of Morocco, about 31 km (19 mi) south of Tangier. Its ramparts and gateworks remain fully intact.

The town's history dates back to 1500 B.C., when the Phoenicians used it as a base for trade. The Portuguese conquered the city in 1471, but later it was decided to abandon it because of an economic debt crisis in 1549. Later in 1578, Sebastian of Portugal used Asilah as a base town for his troops during a planned crusade that resulted in Sebastian's death, which in turn caused the Portuguese succession crisis of 1580. The Moroccans in 1589 regained control of Asilah briefly, but then lost control of it to the Spanish.
In 1692, the town was again taken by the Moroccans under the leadership of Moulay Ismail. Asilah served then as a base for pirates in the 19th and 20th centuries, and in 1829, the Austrians punitively bombarded the city due to Moroccan piracy.

From 1912 to 1956, it was part of Spanish Morocco. A major plan to restore the town was undertaken in 1978 by its mayor, Mohamed Benaissa. The first edition of an art festival known as the International Cultural Moussem of Asilah was launched that year to help generate tourism. It was successful in generating revenue for the city and played a role in raising the average monthly income from $50 in 1978 to $140 in 2014. The festival features local artwork and music and continues to attract large amounts of tourists.

Asilah is now a popular seaside resort, with modern holiday apartment complexes on the coast road leading to the town from Tangier.

Wander the streets of the medina and stumble across murals, contributions left behind by groups of international artists attending the Asilah Arts Festival every August.

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What to do in Asilah

Popular places to visit

Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales during your travels in Medina. Stroll along the marina or visit the monuments while you're in the area.

Asilah Port

Explore the waterfront in Asilah with a trip to Asilah Port. Experience the area's festivals and art scene.

Centre Hassan II

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Centre Hassan II during your travels in Medina. Wander the marina and beaches while you're in the area.

Palais de Raissouli

You can find out about the history of Medina with a visit to Palais de Raissouli. Amble around the area's marina or experience its festivals.

Galerie Hakim

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Galerie Hakim during your trip to Medina. Wander the marina and beaches while you're in the area.

El-Hamra Tower

You can find out about the history of Medina with a visit to El-Hamra Tower. Discover the area's festivals and monuments.

New Town

You can find out about the history of Asilah with a visit to New Town. Discover the area's festivals and monuments.

Ramparts & Medina

Find out about the history of Medina with a stop at Ramparts & Medina. Experience the area's festivals and art scene.

Aplanos Gallery

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Aplanos Gallery during your trip to Medina. Discover the area's festivals and monuments.

Areas of Asilah

Asilah Beach

You'll appreciate the restaurants during your time in Asilah Beach and you might want to plan a stop by Asilah Port and Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales while you're in the area.

A blue city in the north of Morocco
The old town is gorgeous with narrow streets
#August 2017

Medina

If you're spending some time in Medina, Palais de Raissouli and Asilah Port are top sights worth seeing.

Dghaliyene

Dghaliyene might not have many top sights, but Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales and Asilah Port are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Saqaya

Though Saqaya might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Palais de Raissouli and Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales.

Widadiya Asilah

Though Widadiya Asilah might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales and Asilah Port.

Frequently asked questions

Is Asilah worth visiting?

Known for its family-friendly attractions and coastal beaches, discovering cool things to do in Asilah is a cinch. Make sure to add Galerie Hakim to your itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Asilah?

Galerie Hakim is a good place to begin your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to check out the retail and dining options in Asilah while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Asilah?

The top tourist attraction in Asilah is Galerie Hakim, so be sure to add it to your agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Asilah?

If you just want to enjoy the most popular attractions, three days will be plenty of time for a trip to Asilah. Stay for seven to ten days for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, tour nearby highlights and explore a few hidden gems.

Is Asilah a walkable city?

That all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Asilah. Several key attractions, such as Galerie Hakim, are reachable on foot. If you feel like a stroll through one of Asilah's cool neighborhoods, Asilah Beach is 5 kilometers away from downtown.

What are some activities to do in Asilah with kids?

Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Asilah with kids.

3-Day Trip to Northern Morocco

What to do in Asilah for adults?

From regional food and cultural highlights to thrilling activities and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are loads of fun things to do in Asilah for adults.

Are there free things to do in Asilah?

One of the best ways to discover free things to do in Asilah is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet. Galerie Hakim is one sight that doesn't charge an entrance fee.