Things to do in Asilah

Things to Do in Asilah: The Ultimate Guide to Morocco’s Artistic Coastal Gem

The soft Atlantic breeze carries the scent of salt and spices through narrow blue and white alleyways. Vibrant murals burst from whitewashed walls, telling stories of ancient traditions and modern artistic expression. The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against Portuguese ramparts forms a soothing backdrop to the unhurried pace of daily life. This is Asilah—a captivating coastal town where Morocco’s rich heritage meets breathtaking seaside charm.

Planning a trip to Asilah and wondering what to fill your days with? You’re not alone. While this artistic haven may not command the same attention as Marrakech or Fez, those who discover Asilah find themselves enchanted by its unique character and relaxed atmosphere.

Having spent considerable time exploring every charming alley and windswept rampart in this coastal gem, I’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you experience the very best of Asilah. Unlike typical tourist information, this guide goes beyond the obvious attractions to reveal insider tips, practical advice, and authentic experiences that will make your visit truly memorable.

In this guide, I’ll cover the most amazing things to see in Asilah, from the picture-perfect Medina to secluded beaches, along with essential planning information, food recommendations, and sample itineraries to help you make the most of your visit.

Why Visit Asilah? Morocco’s Hidden Artistic Treasure

Perched on Morocco’s northern Atlantic coast, Asilah offers a refreshing alternative to the country’s bustling imperial cities. This former Portuguese fortress town has evolved into one of Morocco’s most distinctive cultural destinations, known for:

Artistic Heritage: Home to an annual arts festival that transforms the town into an open-air gallery
Coastal Beauty: Miles of golden beaches and dramatic ocean views
Cultural Fusion: A unique blend of Moroccan, Portuguese, and Spanish influences
Relaxed Atmosphere: A slower pace of life that invites true immersion
Photogenic Scenery: Picture-perfect blue and white architecture that rivals Greece’s famous islands

Whether you’re seeking cultural exploration, artistic inspiration, or simply a peaceful seaside retreat, Asilah delivers a memorable experience that feels authentically Moroccan yet distinctly its own.

Top Things to Do in Asilah

1. Get Lost in the Blue and White Medina of Asilah

The historic walled old city, with its maze of narrow streets flanked by whitewashed buildings accented with vibrant blues, forms the heart of Asilah’s charm. This photogenic Medina feels like Morocco’s answer to Santorini, yet with its own distinct personality.

The Medina of Asilah isn’t just beautiful—it’s the cultural and artistic soul of the town. As you wander, you’ll discover colorful murals, carved doorways, and hidden plazas that reveal the town’s creative spirit. The compact size makes it impossible to truly get lost, allowing you to explore with confidence.

Insider Tip: Visit early morning (before 9 AM) to experience the Medina as locals do, with fewer tourists and beautiful golden light that’s perfect for photography. The northwestern corner offers some of the most picturesque and least-visited alleyways.

Practical Details: Located in the center of Asilah, the Medina is free to explore. Allow 2-3 hours for unhurried wandering.

2. Walk the Ancient Portuguese Ramparts

The impressive stone fortifications that encircle the Medina offer a glimpse into Asilah’s strategic past as a Portuguese stronghold. Dating back to the 15th century, these massive walls have withstood centuries of Atlantic storms and sieges.

Walking the ramparts provides spectacular panoramic views of both the town and the endless Atlantic horizon. The sight of waves crashing against the stone foundations below creates a dramatic sensory experience, especially at sunset when the walls glow with golden light.

Insider Tip: The northwestern bastion, known as Borj El Kamra, offers the most dramatic ocean views. Bring a light jacket even on warm days—the ocean breeze can be surprisingly cool.

Practical Details: Access points to the ramparts are located near Bab el Homar gate. Free to visit. Best experienced late afternoon before sunset. Allow 1 hour.

3. Admire Asilah’s Famous Street Art and Murals

What truly sets Asilah apart from other Moroccan destinations is its reputation as an open-air art gallery. Since 1978, the annual International Cultural Festival (held in August) has transformed the Medina walls into canvases for artists from around the world.

Unlike fleeting street art in many cities, Asilah’s murals are celebrated cultural artifacts. You’ll find everything from abstract designs to traditional Moroccan motifs, contemporary political commentary to playful scenes of daily life. The art refreshes each year, making return visits to Asilah always new.

Insider Tip: Look for the signature “palette wall” near Avenue Hassan II—a collection of smaller works that serves as an evolving gallery of participating artists through the years. For the best photography lighting, visit around mid-morning when the sun illuminates many east-facing murals.

Practical Details: Concentrated in the southern section of the Medina. Free to view. Allow 1-2 hours for a dedicated art walk. Consider hiring a local guide who can explain the significance of specific works.

4. Relax on Asilah’s Town Beach

Just steps from the Medina walls lies Asilah’s main beach, a broad stretch of golden sand that serves as the town’s communal gathering space. This urban beach offers a fascinating glimpse into local life as families, young couples, and fishermen all share the space in typical Moroccan fashion.

The beach is cleanest and most appealing in the morning hours before the day’s crowds arrive. While not Morocco’s most pristine beach, its accessibility and authentic atmosphere make it worth experiencing.

Insider Tip: The northern end of the beach tends to be quieter and cleaner. During summer, beach umbrellas and chairs can be rented from small vendors for around 20-30 dirhams.

Practical Details: Located directly west of the Medina. Free access. Facilities include basic restrooms and seasonal cafes. Swimming is safest from June to September when waters are calmer.

5. Take an Excursion to Paradise Beach (Plage Paradis)

For a more secluded beach experience, head to Paradise Beach (locally known as Plage Paradis), located about 5 kilometers south of town. This expansive stretch of sand offers a more natural setting with fewer crowds and clearer waters.

The beach earns its name with impressive Atlantic views, dramatic rock formations, and a sense of tranquility that’s harder to find on the town beach. During summer, a few seasonal cafes offer refreshments and beach essentials.

Insider Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid local weekend crowds. The best swimming areas are toward the northern end where rocky outcroppings create natural swimming pools at low tide.

Practical Details: Located 5km south of Asilah. Accessible by petit taxi (about 30-40 dirhams one way) or a pleasant coastal walk of approximately 45 minutes. No entrance fee. Limited facilities outside summer season.

6. Explore Bab Homar and the Historic Gates

The entrances to Asilah’s Medina are marked by impressive gates (babs) that offer both historical significance and photographic opportunities. Bab Homar, the main eastern entrance, is the grandest of these portals, with massive wooden doors and intricate stonework.

Each gate tells part of Asilah’s story—from Portuguese military architecture to later Moroccan embellishments. Bab El Bhar (Sea Gate) offers a dramatic exit toward the ocean, while smaller gates reveal how the town has evolved over centuries.

Insider Tip: Visit Bab Homar in late afternoon when the golden light illuminates its honey-colored stonework. Look for the carved stone lion above the entrance—a subtle Portuguese emblem that survived centuries of history.

Practical Details: Scattered around the Medina perimeter. Free to visit. Each gate can be appreciated in just a few minutes, but they’re best experienced as part of a larger Medina exploration.

7. Visit the Centre Hassan II des Rencontres Internationales

This cultural center hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events, particularly during the summer arts festival. The building itself—a beautifully restored structure with traditional Moroccan architectural elements—is worth visiting even when no formal exhibition is taking place.

The center represents Asilah’s commitment to arts and cross-cultural exchange, often featuring works by both established and emerging Moroccan artists alongside international contributors.

Insider Tip: Even if no exhibition is advertised, ask at the entrance if any areas are open to visitors—staff often allow quiet viewings of permanent collections or exhibition spaces being prepared.

Practical Details: Located near the northern section of the Medina. Opening hours vary seasonally. Small entrance fee may apply for special exhibitions. Allow 30-60 minutes.

8. Soak in the Atmosphere at Place Abdellah Guennoun

This charming square within the Medina serves as Asilah’s social heart—a place where locals gather, children play, and visitors rest between explorations. Surrounded by cafes and small shops, the plaza offers an authentic glimpse into daily Asilah life.

The square comes alive particularly in early evening when temperatures cool and families emerge for the traditional Moroccan pastime of strolling and socializing.

Insider Tip: The cafe in the northwest corner of the square offers excellent mint tea and a perfect vantage point for people-watching. Visit around 6 PM to witness the square’s transformation from quiet afternoon spot to evening social hub.

Practical Details: Located in the central Medina. Free to access. Several cafes offer affordable refreshments. Perfect for a 30-minute rest between other activities.

9. Browse Local Art Galleries and Artisan Shops

Beyond street murals, Asilah boasts a surprising number of formal galleries and artisan workshops for a town its size. These spaces showcase everything from traditional Moroccan crafts to contemporary paintings and mixed-media works.

Unlike the aggressive selling found in larger Moroccan cities, Asilah’s art vendors tend to be more relaxed, allowing visitors to browse peacefully. Look for distinctive local specialties like painted furniture, textile arts, and coastal-inspired ceramics.

Insider Tip: Christina’s Art Gallery near Bab Homar features a thoughtfully curated collection of works by local artists at fair prices. For authentic crafts with less tourist markup, explore the small workshops along Rue Ibn Battouta.

Practical Details: Concentrated in the eastern Medina and along Avenue Hassan II. Free to browse. Open generally 10 AM-1 PM and 3 PM-7 PM. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough exploration.

10. Enjoy Fresh Atlantic Seafood

Asilah’s coastal location guarantees exceptional seafood, and experiencing a meal of freshly caught fish is an essential part of any visit. The town’s restaurants pride themselves on simple preparations that showcase the natural flavors of the Atlantic.

Look for restaurants displaying the day’s catch outside—a sign of freshness and authenticity. Traditional preparations include fish tagine with preserved lemons, grilled sardines with charmoula (a marinade of herbs and spices), and seafood pastilla (a savory pastry).

Insider Tip: For the freshest experience, visit the small fish market near the port in the morning (around 10 AM) when boats return with their catch, then dine at one of the nearby simple restaurants where you can select your fish and have it prepared to order.

Practical Details: Best seafood restaurants are located near the port and along Avenue Hassan II. Expect to pay 80-150 dirhams for a complete seafood meal. Major seafood restaurants serve lunch 12 PM-3 PM and dinner 7 PM-10 PM.

11. Experience a Traditional Hammam

Immerse yourself in Moroccan wellness culture with a visit to a traditional hammam (public bathhouse). These steam baths offer both cultural insight and physical rejuvenation, having served as community gathering places for centuries.

The ritual typically involves progressively hotter steam rooms, followed by vigorous scrubbing with a special exfoliating glove (kessa) and black soap made from olive oil. The experience concludes with relaxation and mint tea.

Insider Tip: Hammam Lalla Rahma offers a more authentic local experience, while newer establishments like Asilah Spa cater more to tourists with private rooms and additional services. Thursday is traditionally women’s day at many local hammams.

Practical Details: Basic hammam experiences start at around 50-100 dirhams (plus tip for the attendant). Bring your own towel and flip-flops for more local hammams. Allow 1-2 hours for the complete experience.

12. Watch the Sunset from a Rampart Cafe

Asilah offers some of Morocco’s most spectacular sunsets, as the Atlantic horizon transforms through shades of gold, orange, and pink. The experience is elevated by enjoying this natural show from a strategic viewpoint with drink in hand.

Several cafes along the western ramparts have positioned their terraces specifically for sunset views. The combination of ancient fortifications, ocean vistas, and the call to prayer sounding across the Medina creates an unforgettable sensory experience.

Insider Tip: Cafe Oceano offers the best elevation and unobstructed views. Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to secure a prime table, especially during summer months.

Practical Details: Most rampart cafes are located along the western wall. A pot of mint tea costs about 15-20 dirhams. Best experienced 30-60 minutes before actual sunset time.

13. Join a Guided Tour with Sahara Discovery

For those seeking deeper insights into Asilah’s history and culture, Sahara Discovery offers expertly guided walking tours of the Medina and surrounding areas. This local Moroccan travel company specializes in authentic cultural experiences with knowledgeable guides who share stories and historical context that bring the ancient walls to life.

Their Asilah city tour includes hidden corners of the Medina that most tourists miss, detailed explanations of the town’s most significant murals, and insights into local traditions that enrich your understanding of this unique coastal gem.

Insider Tip: Book their sunset ramparts tour for a combination of historical information and spectacular photography opportunities. Their guides know exactly when and where to position you for the perfect golden hour shots.

Practical Details: Tours can be booked at their office near Avenue Hassan II or online through their website. Walking tours typically last 2-3 hours and cost around 150-250 dirhams per person depending on group size.

Beyond Asilah: Worthwhile Day Trips

While Asilah deserves dedicated exploration, its position makes it an excellent base for discovering more of northern Morocco:

Tangier (45 minutes by train)

Morocco’s gateway city offers international flair, the fascinating Kasbah Museum, and the legendary Café Hafa overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar.

Lixus Roman Ruins (30 minutes by grand taxi)

Explore impressive ancient Roman ruins overlooking the Loukkos River, including an amphitheater, baths, and temples dating back to the 1st century BC.

Larache (25 minutes by grand taxi)

A working Moroccan port town with Spanish colonial architecture, authentic markets, and fewer tourists than other coastal destinations.

Adventures Further Afield with Sahara Discovery

For those wanting to explore beyond northern Morocco, Sahara Discovery offers multi-day excursions from Asilah to destinations like Chefchaouen (the famous blue city), Fez, and even the edge of the Sahara Desert. Their experienced drivers and comfortable vehicles make longer journeys enjoyable, with thoughtfully planned itineraries that include authentic experiences off the typical tourist path.

Insider Tip: Their 3-day “Northern Morocco Highlights” tour provides an excellent introduction to the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures without requiring too much time away from your Asilah base.

Practical Details: Multi-day tours include transportation, accommodation, some meals, and guided visits. Prices vary by destination and group size, starting from around 2,500 dirhams per person for 2-3 day journeys.

Where to Eat and Drink in Asilah

Asilah’s dining scene reflects its position as both fishing village and cultural destination:

Must-Try Local Specialties:

Fresh grilled sardines – Morocco’s Atlantic coast specialty
Fish tagine with preserved lemon – Slow-cooked in traditional conical earthenware
Spider crab – A local delicacy when in season
Mint tea – The national drink, particularly refreshing on seaside terraces

Dining Experiences:

Port-side fish restaurants: Select your catch and have it prepared to order
Rooftop dining: Several restaurants in the Medina offer panoramic views
Beachfront cafes: Casual seafood and Moroccan staples with ocean views
Traditional teahouses: Perfect for afternoon refreshment and people-watching

Practical Planning Information

Getting to Asilah

By Train: Regular connections from Tangier (45 minutes), Casablanca (4 hours), and Marrakech (8 hours)
By Bus: CTM and Supratours operate comfortable services from major cities
By Car: Well-maintained coastal highway makes driving straightforward
Organized Transfer: Sahara Discovery offers private transfers from Tangier Airport and other major cities with drivers who can provide cultural commentary during the journey

Getting Around

On Foot: The Medina and central areas are compact and pedestrian-friendly
Petit Taxi: Affordable for reaching Paradise Beach or the train station (use meter or agree on price before departing)
Grand Taxi: For day trips to nearby attractions (shared or private hire)
Guided Transportation: Sahara Discovery provides day excursions with comfortable vehicles and knowledgeable drivers for exploring attractions around Asilah

Best Time to Visit

April-June and September-October: Ideal weather with fewer crowds
July-August: Busiest and hottest months, but coincide with the International Cultural Festival
November-March: Quieter with occasional rain, but many businesses remain open

Where to Stay

Asilah offers accommodations for various budgets and preferences:

Medina Riads: Traditional Moroccan houses with central courtyards, offering authentic architecture and prime locations
Ocean-View Hotels: Modern amenities with Atlantic vistas along the town’s western edge
Budget Guesthouses: Simple but comfortable rooms, often family-run
Apartment Rentals: Ideal for longer stays or families, concentrated in the newer town area

Accommodation Tip: Sahara Discovery can arrange stays in carefully selected authentic riads within the Medina, often including properties not listed on major booking platforms. Their local connections provide access to some of Asilah’s most charming and well-situated accommodations.

How Long to Stay

Day Trip: Possible from Tangier, but rushed (Sahara Discovery offers comfortable day tours from Tangier)
2-3 Days: Ideal for experiencing Asilah’s highlights at a relaxed pace
4-7 Days: Perfect for deeper immersion and using Asilah as a base for day trips

Safety Tips

Asilah is generally very safe, with lower levels of harassment than larger Moroccan cities
Standard precautions apply: secure valuables, be aware in crowded areas
Swimming safety varies seasonally—respect local advice about ocean conditions

Useful Phrases

“As-salaam alaykum” – Hello (Peace be upon you)
“Shukran” – Thank you
“La shukran” – No thank you
“Bishhal?” – How much?
“Wahed, jouj, tlata” – One, two, three

Money Matters

Cash is king—ATMs are available near Place Abdellah Guennoun and Avenue Hassan II
Credit cards accepted mainly in upscale restaurants and hotels
Budget approximately 500-800 dirhams per day for mid-range travel (excluding accommodation)

Sample Itineraries

Asilah in One Day

Morning: Early walk through the Medina and along the ramparts
Midday: Seafood lunch near the port
Afternoon: Street art tour and shopping
Evening: Sunset at a rampart cafe followed by dinner

For those with limited time, Sahara Discovery offers a comprehensive one-day guided experience that efficiently covers Asilah’s highlights while providing cultural context and insider access.

Asilah in Three Days

Day 1: In-depth Medina exploration, hammam experience, seafood dinner
Day 2: Paradise Beach excursion, afternoon art gallery visits, sunset walk
Day 3: Morning market visit, day trip to Lixus ruins, farewell dinner in the Medina

Sahara Discovery’s “Asilah & Beyond” 5-Day Experience

For those wanting to use Asilah as a base while exploring more of northern Morocco:

Day 1: Asilah Medina exploration and welcome dinner
Day 2: Detailed Asilah art and culture tour, cooking class with local family
Day 3: Day trip to Tangier and Cap Spartel (where Mediterranean meets Atlantic)
Day 4: Excursion to Chefchaouen (the famous blue city in the Rif Mountains)
Day 5: Paradise Beach morning, final explorations and farewells

Final Thoughts on Visiting Asilah

Asilah offers a refreshing counterpoint to Morocco’s more famous destinations—a place where art and nature converge in a setting that feels both authentically Moroccan and uniquely its own. Whether you’re drawn by the artistic heritage, the coastal beauty, or simply the relaxed atmosphere, Asilah rewards visitors with experiences that linger in memory long after departure.

This small coastal town demonstrates that sometimes the most meaningful travel experiences come from the less-traveled path—where genuine cultural exchange happens naturally and the pressure to “see everything” dissolves into the simple pleasure of being present.

Whether exploring independently or with the expert guidance of companies like Sahara Discovery, Asilah provides an authentic slice of Morocco’s coastal charm that deserves a place on any thoughtful traveler’s itinerary.

Have you visited Asilah? What was your favorite discovery in this coastal gem? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!