🌍 A little history: Asilah doesn’t look like Morocco, and there’s a reason for that. Although founded by Phoenicians, what you see today is a legacy of the portuguese, who built their imposing walls in the 15th century to protect themselves from pirates.
For centuries it was a strategic battleground between Portugal, Spain, and the Moroccan sultans. Today, that blend of European military architecture and Arab soul is what makes it unique.
Fun fact: The Church of San Bartolomé in the new town is one of the few active Catholic churches in the north, a legacy of the Spanish protectorate and built in a style reminiscent of the California missions.
Asilah is not just a seaside resort; it's a living canvas. Every year, the white walls of the Medina are transformed into ephemeral works of art painted by international masters during its renowned Festival. Walking through its narrow streets is like visiting an open-air museum where color, the Atlantic breeze, and history blend together at every turn.
Known locally as Krikia, this bastion overlooking the sea is the true balcony of the Atlantic. It's the essential meeting point at dusk, when the sun paints the Portuguese walls and the endless ocean orange. Sit on its centuries-old stones, breathe in the salty breeze, and enjoy the best sunset in northern Morocco. A visual spectacle that needs no filters.
It's the city's sacred ritual. As evening falls, the pristine white walls are bathed in gold, and the Atlantic seems to swallow the sun in a spectacle of fire and calm. Sit on the stones of the Krikia viewpoint, feel the salty breeze on your face, and let the sound of the waves wash away any trace of stress.
Asilah is a small city, but with excellent transport links. It's located just 40km from Tangier, which has a port and airport. Getting there by ferry or plane is really easy. Asilah also has a train station and is connected to the motorway that runs north to south across Morocco.
In addition to having excellent land, sea and air connections, Asilah is located a few kilometers from the main cities of interest in northern Morocco: Tangier, Tetouan, Chefchaouen, Larache... You can stay overnight in Asilah and visit these places on day trips.
Throughout Morocco, you'll find a wide variety of traditional cuisine. Most restaurants offer this option. In Asilah, you can enjoy a different kind of gastronomic experience: Al Alba Restaurant's Creative Moroccan Cuisine is unique and is recommended by tourist guides as one of the leading Moroccan and Mediterranean restaurants in the city.
Asilah exudes tranquility, but true relaxation lies in Hammam Al Alba. This sanctuary is a must-see: its traditional rituals and expert massages are considered, deservedly, the highest-rated wellness experience in northern Morocco.
Any of the 12 months of the year is a great time to visit Asilah. Summer is perfect for those who love the beach and vibrant cities. The rest of the year is ideal for those seeking a relaxing trip and for those who want to explore northern Morocco with fewer tourists than usual.
Your oasis of comfort in Asilah. With easy parking and a strategic location, we offer the perfect balance: rest in spacious rooms, rejuvenation in our exclusive traditional Hammam, and unique flavors in our restaurant. Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality without sacrificing comfort.
🛍️ Shopping in the Medina: What to take home Unlike the souks of Fez or Marrakech, shopping in Asilah is relaxed. The artisans are friendly and the pressure is minimal..
Local treasures:
Rugs: Asilah and its surroundings weave unique colorful designs of the northern region.
Leather: Quality bags and slippers at much better prices than in Europe.
Art: As a city of artists, you’ll find small galleries with original paintings.
💡 Al Alba Tip: Most artisans don’t accept cards. Remember to withdraw cash from the ATMs at Bab Homar gate. (Our Hotel, Hammam, and Restaurant do accept cards.)
Top 10 Activities
Asilah is a haven of peace where time seems to stand still. To truly enjoy it, the first step is to relax and let yourself be enveloped by its Atlantic light. A stroll through its medina is a must; it’s one of the most meticulously preserved in Morocco, famous for its whitewashed houses and artistic murals. Outside the medina, you’ll discover local life in its vibrant markets and avenues. For discerning palates, we offer a creative gastronomic experience in our restaurant, where tradition blends seamlessly with avant-garde touches.
Total relaxation comes with a traditional hammam and massage, the quintessential Arab wellness ritual that will renew your energy. If you’re looking for nature, its extensive golden sand beaches are the ideal setting to disconnect, whether walking or cycling along the coast. Asilah is a hub of art, so visiting its galleries will allow you to discover the talent of local and international painters who reside in the city.
To avoid haggling and waiting, at Hotel Al Alba we organize private door-to-door transfers. The driver will be waiting for you with a sign and will take you directly to the hotel, stress-free. Transfers to or from Tangier cost €30-€40. For Tetouan, the price is €50-€60, depending on the transfer time. You can find more information and prices for transfers to or from Asilah HERE..
For your purchases, bring cash (Dirhams or Euros). But in Hotel Al Alba, at the Restaurante and the Hammam, We accept credit cards without any problem.
In summer and on holidays, parking near the Medina is a nightmare (and the guarded parking lots fill up). That’s one of the great advantages of Hotel Al Alba. We’re outside the chaos of the city walls, with parking is easy and safe just at the door. Forget the car and walk only 10 minutes to the center.
Public hammams are complicated for tourists. At Hammam Al Alba, We guide you through the entire process. We provide everything you need, and you decide your level of privacy. It’s a professional, hygienic, and relaxing environment designed for Westerners who want to experience tradition.
Many people come just for a day trip from Tangier. Mistake! To see it, one day is enough. To truly experience it, you need at least two nights. The sunset, a leisurely dinner, and the hammam ritual all require a pause. Furthermore, it’s the perfect base for excursions to Larache or Tangier.
The beach in Asilah itself is beautiful, but it tends to be very crowded in the summer. In the surrounding area, you can find spectacular unspoiled beaches: Las Cuevas, Briech, Sidi Mugait… You can see prices and options on our website Day Trips from Asilah.
In Asilah, it is only possible to drink alcohol in some hotels and restaurants.
The best beaches and most interesting cities in northern Morocco can be visited from Asilah on a day trip. Visits to Tangier, Tetouan, Chefchaouen, and Larache are highly recommended. Check the different excursion options from Asilah HERE.
Absolutely. Morocco is very safe, and Asilah, being small and artistic, is even safer. It’s a quiet, family-friendly city. Our hotel has reception 24h and our staff will help you with any questions so you feel right at home.
Making traditional Moroccan bread, horse riding, and bike tours are options available most of the year with local experience providers.
Cities like Fez, Meknes, Rabat, and Casablanca are just a few hours from Asilah by train. Marrakech is about 9 hours away by train. Check prices and schedules at ONCF.
The nearest airport is Tangier-Ibn Battuta (TNG), located 45 km (40 min) away. It’s a quick drive on the highway that connects directly to the entrance of Asilah. From here you can travel to other Moroccan cities such as Agadir and Marrakech.
| MesMonthMois | Temp. (Máx/Mín)Temp. (High/Low)Temp. (Max/Min) | Lluvia (Est.)Rain (Est.)Pluie (Est.) | Tu MaletaWhat to PackValise | El Plan "Al Alba"The "Al Alba" PlanLe Plan "Al Alba" |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EneroJanuaryJanvier | 17°C / 9°C | 7-8 díasdaysjours | Abrigo y bufandaWarm coat & scarfManteau chaud | Relax Total: Refúgiate en nuestro Hammam caliente.Total Relax: Cozy up in our heated Hammam.Détente Totale : Refuge au chaud dans notre Hammam. |
| FebreroFebruaryFévrier | 18°C / 10°C | 7 díasdaysjours | Capas (cebolla)Layers (Onion style)Vêtements superposés | Romántico: Cenas íntimas en nuestro restaurante.Romantic: Intimate dinners at our restaurant.Romantique : Dîners intimes dans notre restaurant. |
| MarzoMarchMars | 20°C / 11°C | 6 díasdaysjours | Chaqueta finaLight jacketVeste légère | Excursiones: Luz ideal para Larache o Tánger.Excursions: Perfect light for trips to Tangier.Excursions : Lumière idéale pour Tanger. |
| AbrilAprilAvril | 22°C / 13°C | 5 díasdaysjours | EntretiempoSpring clothesMi-saison | Semana Santa: Desayunos al sol en la terraza.Easter: Breakfast under the sun on the terrace.Pâques : Petits-déjeuners au soleil. |
| MayoMayMai | 24°C / 15°C | 3 díasdaysjours | Manga cortaT-shirtsT-shirt / Manches courtes | Explorar: Pasear la Medina sin calor.Explore: Ideal weather to walk the Medina.Exploration : Climat parfait pour la Médina. |
| JunioJuneJuin | 27°C / 18°C | 1 díadayjour | Verano / BañadorSummer / SwimwearÉté / Maillot de bain | Pre-Verano: Paradise Beach para ti solo.Pre-Summer: Paradise Beach just for you.Pré-Été : Paradise Beach rien que pour vous. |
| JulioJulyJuillet | 29°C / 20°C | 0 | Playa totalBeachwearPlage totale | Sol: Playa y atardeceres en Krikia.Sun: Beach & sunsets at Krikia.Soleil : Plage et coucher de soleil à Krikia. |
| AgostoAugustAoût | 30°C / 21°C | 0 | Muy ligeraVery lightTenue légère | Oasis: El pueblo vibra, tu habitación es paz.Oasis: The town buzzes; your room is peace.Oasis : La ville vibre, votre chambre est paix. |
| SeptiembreSeptemberSeptembre | 28°C / 19°C | 2 díasdaysjours | Verano + RebecaSummer + CardiganÉté + Gilet | Top Choice: Agua caliente y sin gente.Top Choice: Warm water, fewer crowds.Top Choix : Eau chaude, moins de monde. |
| OctubreOctoberOctobre | 25°C / 16°C | 5 díasdaysjours | EntretiempoLight layersMi-saison | Cultura: Festival de las Artes.Culture: Arts Festival.Culture : Festival des Arts. |
| NoviembreNovemberNovembre | 21°C / 13°C | 7 díasdaysjours | ChaquetaJacketVeste | Escapada: Desconecta antes de Navidad.Getaway: Disconnect before Xmas.Évasion : Déconnectez avant Noël. |
| DiciembreDecemberDécembre | 18°C / 10°C | 8 díasdaysjours | AbrigoWarm coatManteau | Fiestas: Fin de Año gastronómico.Festive: Gourmet New Year's Eve.Fêtes : Fin d'année gastronomique. |
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