Things To Do
in Asilah

Asilah, Morocco is a charming coastal town known for its vibrant arts scene and well-preserved medina. It features stunning whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful murals, making it a photographer's paradise. The town is steeped in history, with influences from various cultures including Berber, Arab, and Portuguese.

Asilah is also famous for its annual arts festival, attracting artists and visitors from around the world.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Medina
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Asilah medina, wandering through its narrow alleys and admiring the bright murals and local artisan shops.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant, followed by a visit to the Asilah Cultural Center where you can learn about the town's history and art scene.

evening
:

Stroll along the beach at sunset and enjoy dinner at a seaside café, sampling local dishes while listening to the sound of the waves.

day 2
Day 2: Beach and Fortifications
morning
:

Spend the morning at Paradise Beach, relaxing on the sandy shores or swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic ramparts and the Kasbah, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and explore the old fortifications.

evening
:

Head back to the medina for a traditional Moroccan dinner, followed by a leisurely walk through the vibrant night market.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-3
🚌Local bus fare$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$30-50
🛍️Souvenir$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and historic architecture.
  • Rich cultural experiences with art festivals.
  • Delicious food with fresh seafood options.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Can be crowded during summer tourist season.
  • Some language barriers for non-Arabic speakers.
  • "Salam Alaikum" - Peace be upon you
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "La shukran" - No, thank you
  • "Min fadlak" - Please
  • "Ma as-salama" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Asilah

Visit one of these nice places.

Medina Murals

The vibrant murals throughout the medina provide a fantastic backdrop for colorful photography.

Asilah Beach

The picturesque beach with its golden sands and azure waters offers stunning sunset shots.

Kasbah Ramparts

The historic ramparts offer panoramic views of the town and coastline, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Asilah

Asilah offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Moroccan cuisine, especially seafood given its coastal location.

Asilah Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, served in a traditional clay pot.

Must-Try!

Couscous

Steamed semolina served with vegetables and meat, often enjoyed on Fridays as a communal dish.

Grilled Fish

Freshly caught fish grilled to perfection, often served with a side of salad and bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Asilah Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local spices, and street food vendors offering delicious snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Try local favorites such as fried calamari, pastries, and mint tea from various street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Asilah enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F). Rain is more common in winter, while summer is generally dry. Coastal breezes help keep the temperatures pleasant year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common, and it’s polite to greet people with 'Salam Alaikum'.

Dress Modestly

It's respectful to dress conservatively, especially in religious sites.

Respecting Ramadan

During Ramadan, it's polite to refrain from eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Asilah is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding dark and isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the location of nearby police stations.

Tipping in Asilah

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer (June to August) is hot and busy, with many tourists enjoying the beaches and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) sees cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the medina.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is mild but can be rainy, ideal for enjoying the local culture indoors.

Nightlife Guide

Asilah at Night

Asilah has a relaxed nightlife scene, with most activities centered around cafés and restaurants offering live music. The town features a few bars where you can enjoy local drinks and socialize, but it is not known for a wild party atmosphere. The vibrant atmosphere during the summer festivals also contributes to a lively evening ambiance.

Hiking in Asilah

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Talassemtane National Park

Located about 50 km from Asilah, this park offers stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, with various trails for hiking enthusiasts.

Rif Mountains Trails

The nearby Rif Mountains provide excellent hiking opportunities with scenic views, especially along the trails leading to the peaks.

Airports

How to reach Asilah by plane.

Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport

Located about 30 km from Asilah, this international airport offers flights to various destinations in Europe and Morocco. It serves as the main gateway for travelers heading to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Asilah is highly walkable, with its compact medina making it easy to explore on foot. The narrow streets are lined with shops, cafés, and art galleries, and most attractions are within a short walking distance. The town's flat terrain also makes it accessible for all types of visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Berbers

The indigenous people of Morocco, Berbers have a rich cultural heritage and play a significant role in the local community.

Arab-Moroccans

The majority ethnic group in Morocco, Arab-Moroccans contribute to the cultural tapestry of Asilah, influencing its traditions and customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Morocco, with local teams playing in community leagues.

Surfing

The region's beaches attract surfers, particularly in areas with good wave conditions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Asilah is generally light, especially compared to larger Moroccan cities. Most visitors find it easy to navigate the town on foot. Public transportation options include local taxis and buses, although many prefer to walk given the compact nature of the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Asilah.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads, tagines, and couscous.

Gluten-Free

While traditional Moroccan bread contains gluten, many dishes are naturally gluten-free, such as tagines and grilled meats.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Asilah is generally adequate for minor ailments, with local pharmacies available for over-the-counter medications. For serious medical issues, it’s advisable to travel to larger cities like Tangier, where better medical facilities are available. Travelers should have health insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary.

Discover Morocco

Read more in our Morocco 2025 Travel Guide.

Morocco Travel Guide