Asilah (Arabic: أصيلة،‎‎ Aṣīla; Berber: ⴰⵥⵉⵍⴰ Aẓila; "authentic", Portuguese: Arzila, Spanish: Arcila) is a fortified town on the northwest tip of the Atlantic coast of Morocco, about 31 km (19 mi) south of Tangier. Its ramparts and gateworks remain fully intact.

The town's history dates back to 1500 B.C., when the Phoenicians used it as a base for trade. The Portuguese conquered the city in 1471, but later it was decided to abandon it because of an economic debt crisis in 1549. Later in 1578, Sebastian of Portugal used Asilah as a base town for his troops during a planned crusade that resulted in Sebastian's death, which in turn caused the Portuguese succession crisis of 1580. The Moroccans in 1589 regained control of Asilah briefly, but then lost control of it to the Spanish.
In 1692, the town was again taken by the Moroccans under the leadership of Moulay Ismail. Asilah served then as a base for pirates in the 19th and 20th centuries, and in 1829, the Austrians punitively bombarded the city due to Moroccan piracy.

From 1912 to 1956, it was part of Spanish Morocco. A major plan to restore the town was undertaken in 1978 by its mayor, Mohamed Benaissa. The first edition of an art festival known as the International Cultural Moussem of Asilah was launched that year to help generate tourism. It was successful in generating revenue for the city and played a role in raising the average monthly income from $50 in 1978 to $140 in 2014. The festival features local artwork and music and continues to attract large amounts of tourists.

Asilah is now a popular seaside resort, with modern holiday apartment complexes on the coast road leading to the town from Tangier.

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"A little gem of a place, we were greeted by the owner who was very welcoming. He gave us a great room with a wonderful view and told us all we needed to know to get around Asilah. Breakfast was good and on our last day we left very early to get a ferry and he still managed to get us fed. The view from the top is great and can I just say once again how welcoming we were made to feel, couldn’t recommend it enough!"

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Frequently asked questions

What's there to see and do in Asilah?

After you've decided where to stay in walkable Asilah, figure out some fun things to do on your trip. Attractions and activities to experience around Asilah include Centre Hassan II, Asilah Port and Paradise Beach. You might also want to consider exploring Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales, El-Hamra Tower and Ramparts & Medina while you're here.

What kind of weather should I plan for when I travel to Asilah?

Understanding the weather in Asilah is important when planning your trip. The hottest months are usually August and July, with an average temperature of 24°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 14°C. Average annual precipitation for Asilah is 701 mm.

What's the best way to get to my boutique hotel in Asilah?

You have a few options for travelling to and around Asilah. The nearest major airport is Tangier (TNG-Ibn Batouta), which is located 19.2 mi (30.8 km) from the heart of the city. To see more of the larger area, hop aboard a train at Asilah Station.

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Boutique Hotels & Resorts in Asilah from AU$54

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Best Asilah Boutique Hotels

Recommended hotels in Asilah

Asilah 32

Dar Bouanani

Hotel Al Khaima

Hôtel Al Alba Hammam & Restaurant

Riad Oasis d'Asilah

Hotel Zelis

Pasta Plaza Hotel

Bel Appartement Neuf

Marina Golf Appart Chez Hicham

Daya Rentals

Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

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