An Artistic Coastal Gem: Essential Travel Guide to Asilah

Looking for the best things to do in Asilah or highly recommended places to stay? Discover the ideal time to visit, tips for getting there and the best Asilah tours in this essential travel guide.

Perched on Morocco’s northwest coast, Asilah is a vibrant seaside town with a history dating back to 1500 BC when it was the Phoenician site of Zili. Encircled by 15th-century Portuguese ramparts, its compact medina packs a visual punch, with whitewashed houses adorned with captivating murals that reflect Asilah’s artistic side. 

I love wandering Asilah’s cobblestone streets, stumbling upon art galleries and cultural centres housed in historic palaces. The sunsets here are also spectacular and the perfect way to end a day of exploration. While you can see the town’s highlights in a day, once you experience Asilah’s beauty and seaside setting, you’ll wish you stayed longer.

In this Essential Travel Guide to Asilah, discover everything you need to know to experience this seaside town to the fullest, from the best things to do in Asilah and incredible hotels to my top tour recommendations. 

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Best things to do in Asilah

Photograph the street art

Asilah’s historic medina is an artist’s haven, with its whitewashed walls serving as the perfect canvas for a rotating gallery of murals. Simply strolling around to admire the work is one of the best things to do in Asilah. Every year, new pieces grace the streets, luring art aficionados and photographers alike to meander this open-air museum. 

Intricate miniatures sit alongside sprawling works that engulf entire walls. Let your inner photographer run wild as you document the town’s street art treasures – you never know what inspiration lies around the next corner.

Visit the Church of San Bartolome

Just northwest of Asilah’s old town lies a hidden gem from the colonial past: the Church of San Bartolome. Built in 1925 by Spanish Franciscans, this striking Catholic church is a rarity in mostly-Muslim Morocco and one of the few allowed to ring its bells for Sunday mass. 

Inside, devoted nuns of the order still reside and tours of the church can be arranged. This is one of the best things to do in Asilah for those interested in Christianity’s role in Morocco. Wandering between the pews, you’ll gain a compelling glimpse into the country’s multilayered religious heritage.

Haggle at the Thursday market

If possible, coincide your visit to Asilah with a Thursday when a lively market takes place just outside the old town walls. Traders come from the surrounding villages to sell their fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as poultry, spices and household goods. It’s a great way to experience Moroccan commerce in an authentic setting. 

Tucked away in one of the medina’s tiny streets is the Nashia Bazaar, which boasts an array of handcrafted goods. Ornate Moroccan mirrors and chests share space with brilliantly hued rugs in endless shapes and sizes. Haggling is an essential part of the experience here, so don’t be afraid to embrace the art of negotiation to get the best deals. 

Tour the Palais du Raissouli

This grand palace reveals a dramatic tale of power and piracy along Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Constructed in 1909 by Er Raissouli, it provided a lavish retreat during his reign as a pirate lord. Despite being beautifully restored, its opulent rooms still hold dark secrets. 

The main reception room still boasts its glass-fronted terrace overlooking the sea – the very place where Er Raissouli forced convicted murderers to plunge to their deaths on the rocky shores below. While usually closed to visitors, the palace briefly opens its doors during the Asilah Festival, offering a glimpse into a turbulent time when pirates held sway along this coastline.

Spend a day at Paradise Beach

For a peaceful beach escape near Asilah, head to the aptly named Paradise Beach (also known as Kaf Lahmam). It’s located seven kilometres south of the town. Kaf Lahmam is less popular than Asilah’s urban beach, making it the perfect alternative for those who want to relax in peace and quiet.

Dotting the sands are umbrellas and sun loungers available for rent, as well as chiringuitos (beach bars) selling fried fish and tagines. It’s possible to walk to Paradise Beach from Asilah or you can catch a taxi there. 

Outside of the summer months, you’ll probably have the beach largely to yourself.

Enjoy a hammam experience

In the heart of Asilah’s medina is Hammam Al Alba. It features two rooms (one warm, one hot) that recreate the traditional Moroccan hammam experience. It’s a great option if you’re not ready for the real deal, which involves getting (almost) naked in front of a bunch of strangers.

That being said, I highly recommend an authentic local hammam if you feel comfortable. It really is a wonderful cultural experience. 

Hammam Al Alba also offers a variety of other wellness treatments, including skin exfoliations and therapeutic massages. For something uniquely Moroccan, you can indulge with a facial using a mineral-rich rhassoul clay mask that nourishes while drawing out impurities. 

Experience the Cromlech de Msoura

History buffs shouldn’t miss a visit to this ancient stone circle, which lies 15 kilometres’ drive from Asilah near the village of Chouahed. It consists of 167 towering monoliths arranged in a circle around a massive central tumulus. While the monoliths average around 1.5 metres in height, El Uted (“the peg”) is a staggering 5 metres tall. 

Legend claims this was the tomb of the mythical giant Antaeus, although the significance of the site is still shrouded in mystery. Archaeologists date the site to the 4th or 3rd century BC, suggesting it may mark the beginnings of the ancient Kingdom of Mauretania.

Watch the sunset from the ramparts

As the sun begins sinking towards the horizon, head to the grand ramparts of Asilah for an evening stroll. Constructed primarily in the 15th century when the Portuguese ruled this coastal outpost, these formidable walls have endured for centuries. 

Embracing Asilah’s historic medina, the ramparts exude old-world charm. This is the perfect spot to watch the sun’s last rays illuminate the old town.

Experience the Asilah Arts Festival

Every summer, artists flock to Asilah from all corners of the globe, ready to transform the medina’s whitewashed houses into canvases of creativity. But street art is only part of what makes the Asilah Arts Festival so captivating. This annual event also features concerts, exhibitions and theatrical performances that highlight the best of Moroccan art and culture. 

The festival provides a creative exchange between artists and the local community, with engaging workshops and community education programs. The Asilah Arts Festival takes place in July or August each year. If you’re planning on visiting, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance. It tends to get snapped up early. 

Top tours in Asilah

While Asilah is relatively small and easy enough to explore on foot, you’ll get so much more out of your experience if you visit with a local guide. Not only will they provide historical insights but also cultural tidbits that you probably wouldn’t discover on your own.

There are several guided tours to Asilah leaving from Tangier, which take the hassle out of having to negotiate the local buses. Some also include stops at Cap Spartel and the Hercules Caves while multi-day options incorporate visits to Chefchaouen, Tetouan and Fes.

Discover the history, art and culture of Asilah

Exploring the cultural and artistic heritage of Asilah, this fully guided private tour includes return transport from your accommodation

Day trip to Asilah and Cap Spartel

Travel from Tangier to Asilah during this half-day tour, which also includes stops at Cap Spartel and the Hercules Caves.

Asilah shore excursion from Tangier

Including transfers from the Tangier port, this Asilah tour is designed to coincide with cruise ship arrivals and departures.

Two-day Asilah and Tangier tour

Including a full-day guided tour of Tangier and another in Asilah, this two-day experience takes in the best of northwest Morocco (no accommodation included).

Two-day Taste of the North tour (Tangier-Chefchaouen-Tetouan-Asilah)

This two-day experience includes a guided tour of UNESCO-listed Tetouan and a night in blue-hued Chefchaouen, as well as a visit to the coastal town of Asilh.

Three-day Morocco tour from Tangier

This three-day experience includes visits to Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes and Asilah, as well as a guided trek through the Rif Mountains.

How to get to Asilah

Asilah is located just 45 kilometres south of Tangier and is best accessed from Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport. It receives flights from destinations across Morocco and Europe.

Private transfer

If you’re travelling from Tangier, Chefchaouen or other cities in Morocco’s north, the most comfortable and convenient way to reach Asilah is by booking a private transfer. It’s a hassle-free option that includes door-to-door service, eliminating the need to lug your bags to and from the train/bus station. 

Private transfer from Tangier to Asilah

Bus

One of the most affordable ways to reach Asilah is by bus, with daily services from Tangier. Most of the companies serving this route don’t have an online presence, so it’s best to head to Tangier’s main bus station (NOT the CTM bus station) directly.

If you’re travelling from Chefchaouen, you’ll need to change bus in Tangier before continuing on to Asilah. Share taxis are also available at the Tangier bus station and leave for Asilah once full. 

Guided tours

If you’re short on time, I highly recommend taking a guided tour from Tangier to Asilah, such as this one, which includes a stop at Cap Spartel. Alternatively, you could opt for this two-day Taste of the North tour, which takes in Tangier, Chefchaouen, Tetouan and Asilah. It will save you the hassle of organising transportation between cities while taking in the highlights of each. 

To learn more about Chefchaouen, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Chefchaouen.

Cruise ship

If you’re arriving in Tangier by cruise ship and want to explore beyond the city, I highly recommend this Asilah shore excursion from Tangier. It includes all transport, entrance fees and a private guide to ensure you make the most of this enchanting seaside town in the time you have available. 

Best places to stay in Asilah

Despite its compact size, Asilah boasts an abundance of atmospheric apartments and dars where you can overnight or spend a few days. Many have sun-drenched rooftop terraces, offering stunning views across the medina.

Beyond the old town walls are a handful of boutique hotels and retreats catering to luxury travellers. For more information about the best places to stay in Asilah, check out my detailed article here.

Luxury places to stay in Asilah

Dar el Maq

Spread across three floors and two sun-drenched terraces, this high-end apartment in the Asilah medina comes complete with a fully-equipped kitchen and a private sauna.

Khanfous Retreat

Nestled in the hills to the south of Asilah, this luxurious retreat features four bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen and an outdoor fire, making it ideal for families and groups.

The White Cottage

Decorated with natural materials, this seaside cottage features three bedrooms and a swimming pool offering wonderful views across the surrounding countryside.

Mid-range places to stay in Asilah

Riad Oasis d’Asilah

Located within the medina, this whitewashed Asilah riad features artistically decorated rooms and a patio swimming pool.

Dar Jean

Centrally located, this mid-range Asilah hotel features spotlessly clean rooms and a wonderful terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Maison d’Hotes Berbari

Nestled in the countryside to the south of Asilah, this eco-friendly hotel exudes rustic charm and comes complete with picturesque gardens.

Affordable places to stay in Asilah

Pasta Plaza

Just across the road from the beach, this traditionally decorated hotel comes with clean rooms, an inviting dining room and a traditional hammam.

Casa Bahia

Located just a stone’s throw from Plage de Asilah, this budget-friendly Asilah hotel features an outdoor pool and a hammam.

Dar Khadija

With fully-equipped kitchens and private lounges, the apartments at this medina hotel are perfect for a self-catered stay.

Best time to visit Asilah

Weatherwise, the best time to visit Asilah is during spring and autumn, when temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius make for pleasant exploration. From March to May and September to November, you can stroll through the medina’s winding alleys and relax at the breezy cafes without building up a sweat.

While the summer months can be hot, with temperatures regularly topping 30°C, this is the best time to visit Asilah if you want to experience its arts festival. Keep in mind that large numbers of other visitors are hoping to stay in Asilah during this period, so be sure to book your accommodation well in advance. 

Despite the cooler weather, winter is still a wonderful time to visit this seaside town, particularly if you’re coming from snowy northern Europe. Keep in mind there is a small peak in tourist numbers over the Christmas/New Year holiday period. 

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.