Things To Do
in Asilah
Asilah is a picturesque Atlantic coast town in northern Morocco known for its whitewashed houses and blue accents. The fortified medina walls, freshly repainted alleyways, and a yearly arts festival give the town a creative, laid‑back vibe. Its long, sandy beaches, approachable pace, and waterfront dining make it ideal for relaxed days and scenic sunsets.
A blend of traditional Moroccan charm with a refreshing artistic spirit, Asilah is a welcoming base for coastal exploration and easy day trips along the Tangier coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a leisurely stroll through the ancient Medina of Asilah, where vibrant murals adorn whitewashed walls. Visit the local artisan shops, admiring hand-crafted ceramics and textiles. Stop by a quaint café for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen and mint tea.
In the afternoon, continue exploring the winding alleyways and charming plazas, immersing yourself in the artistic atmosphere. Visit the Asilah Arts Festival exhibition space if it's the season, or simply enjoy the sea views from the ramparts. Have lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring freshly caught fish paired with local spices.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at the beach to enjoy the stunning sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Afterward, dine in one of the local restaurants, tasting the region's specialties such as tagine or seafood paella. Conclude your day with a walk along the beach under the starry night sky.
Visit the historic El-Hamra Tower, an iconic symbol of Asilah, to learn about its fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views of the town. Follow this by exploring the nearby Kasbah, rich in history and artistry. Discover the stories behind the city’s architectural treasures with a guided tour.
After lunch, partake in a Moroccan cooking class where local chefs will guide you through the preparation of classic dishes. This experience will enrich your understanding of Moroccan cuisine and allow you to savor your delicious creations. Spend the late afternoon visiting local galleries to appreciate Asilah's contemporary art scene.
In the evening, indulge in a traditional Moroccan feast at a family-run riad, immersing yourself in the local dining culture. Join in on a family gathering, learning about Moroccan customs and storytelling. End your night at a cozy café while enjoying live music performed by local artists.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🍺Beer (0.5 L) | $2-3 |
| 🏠Monthly rent (1-bedroom city center) | $500-800 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque coastal scenery and whitewashed medina charm
- Relaxed pace, walkable medina, and strong seafood cuisine
- Vibrant arts scene with annual festivals and galleries
- Good base for day trips to Tangier and nearby beaches
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Some services and markets are cash-only or have variable card acceptance
- Occasional language barriers outside tourist areas; French and Arabic help
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Smḥ li" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Shhal hadchi?" - How much is this?
- "Fin kayn suq?" - Where is the market?
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Bghit hadshi" - I want this
Places to Visit in Asilah
Visit one of these nice places.
A sea-facing terrace and fortress walls offering dramatic Atlantic views and the whitewashed town below, especially striking at sunset.
Painted walls, blue doors, and winding lanes provide countless opportunities for colorful street photography.
Colorful boats and working harbor scenes—perfect for candid fishermen, nets, and early-morning light.
The town’s walls and galleries showcase rotating murals; shoot large-scale art against the whitewashed backdrop.
For wide coastal panoramas where the Atlantic meets the Rif mountains in the distance.
Food in Asilah
Asilah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tomato-based fish stew with potatoes and peppers, typically served with bread or couscous at waterfront restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fresh sardines brushed with olive oil and herbs, often enjoyed with lemon and a side of salad or bread, common along the harbor.
Steamed semolina topped with a hearty vegetable mix; a comforting and widely available option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional stalls selling fruit, vegetables, spices, olives, and bread; ideal for sampling fresh produce and picking up spices.
Casual stalls along the quay offering grilled seafood and light snacks; great for a quick, flavorful bite.
Bright stalls with fresh juices, pomegranate seeds, and sweet snacks perfect for a mid‑day refresh.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Light, modest clothing is appropriate in public spaces; shoulders and knees should be covered for women in many traditional areas.
Greet with a simple ‘Salam’ (hello). Handshakes are common; many Moroccans also kiss on the cheek among friends and family.
Bargaining is expected in souks; do so politely and with a smile.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in smaller villages or traditional settings.
Be mindful of local customs during Ramadan; avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours where appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Asilah
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service is good; many places include a service charge, so check the bill first. For taxi rides, rounding up the fare is common.
Cash in Moroccan dirhams (MAD) is widely accepted; many shops and markets prefer cash. Some restaurants and hotels accept credit/debit cards, but card acceptance can be inconsistent in smaller venues. ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming hillsides, and pleasant coastal walks; great for sightseeing without heat stress.
Hot, dry days with refreshing sea breezes; peak beach season and more visitors; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun.
Comfortable temperatures and calmer crowds; ideal for long walks, photography, and outdoor exploring.
Cooler and occasionally rainy; milder than inland areas but can be windy; seafood and café culture are especially appealing.
Asilah at Night
Hiking in Asilah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal hike with dramatic sea views, a lighthouse, and sea cliffs; suitable for a half- to full-day excursion depending on pace.
Gentle, scenic routes along the coast and into nearby olive groves offering easy to moderate hikes with ocean vistas.
Airports
How to reach Asilah by plane.
Primary international gateway for the region; about a 40–70 minute drive to Asilah depending on traffic and route.
Major hub with extensive international connections; longer drive or train transfer to Asilah, usually 2.5–4 hours depending on connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Moroccan Arab-Berber communities, fishermen, and shopkeepers in the medina and on the quay.
A growing community of artists, gallery staff, and festival visitors during art events and summer months.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport regionally, played casually on beaches and in local clubs.
Surfing, kayaking, and beach volleyball are enjoyed along the coast when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Asilah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Moroccan cuisine features many vegetable tagines, couscous with vegetables, and lentil or chickpea dishes. Ask for dishes to be prepared without meat or fish stock, and favor vegetable-forward tagines and salads. If in doubt, request ‘beshaklou khodra’ (vegetables only) or ‘khodra ma3 zr’ (vegetables with grains) when ordering.