Asilah is a small, tranquil coastal town on the Atlantic Ocean in northern Morocco, known for its whitewashed houses, annual arts festival, and well-preserved Portuguese ramparts. It offers a quiet, artistic escape compared to the larger Moroccan cities.
Asilah has an ancient history, with its origins tracing back to the Phoenicians. It was later a Roman port known as Zilis. Its modern history is closely tied to the Portuguese, who captured the town in the 15th century and built the formidable fortifications that still define the city's silhouette. The town was also a notorious base for pirates in the 19th century. Today, it is perhaps most famous for its annual International Cultural Moussem (festival), which has transformed the town into an open-air art gallery.
Asilah is a small town, with a population of just over 30,000 inhabitants. This small size contributes to its charm and makes it easily explorable on foot.
The main draw of Asilah is its beautiful, clean medina and its coastal setting. The most notable site is the Asilah Medina, a small, well-maintained medina famous for its whitewashed walls and the vibrant murals painted by international artists during the annual arts festival. Surrounding the medina are the Ramparts and Towers, the 15th-century Portuguese fortifications, which offer stunning sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean, particularly from the Krikia viewpoint. The Raisuli Palace is a grand palace built in the early 20th century by the infamous local brigand and governor, Moulay Ahmed er Raisuni. The Grand Mosque of Asilah is a historic mosque within the medina, showcasing traditional Moroccan architecture. For natural attractions, Paradise Beach (Kaf Lahmam) is a popular beach located outside of Asilah, accessible by taxi, known for its golden sands, while the Asilah Port is a working port where you can watch the fishing boats and enjoy fresh seafood.
Asilah is a place for relaxation, art appreciation, and enjoying the sea. Visitors can stroll through the medina for Art Appreciation to admire the vibrant murals painted on the walls, which are repainted each year during the festival. The ramparts, especially near the Krikia viewpoint, are the perfect spot for Sunset Watching over the Atlantic. Tourists can enjoy the beaches, including the town beach and the more secluded Paradise Beach, for some Beach Time. Finally, the crowded souks offer opportunities for exploring the souks, shopping, and socializing.
The International Cultural Moussem (art festival) takes place every summer (usually August), attracting artists and tourists, which makes the town much busier and accommodations more expensive. Asilah is known for its quiet, laid-back vibe and is excellent for a peaceful break. The medina is small enough to be explored entirely on foot in a single day, making exploration easy.
3 Days 4 Nights
