Asilah Travel Guide: Whitewashed Medina & Atlantic Beaches
Asilah is a small, relaxed fishing town on Morocco's north-western Atlantic coast. Its whitewashed medina is surrounded by 15th-century Portuguese ramparts and decorated with colourful murals, made during an annual arts festival. It is a gentle alternative to larger cities and an easy day trip from Tangier.
At a glance
- Setting
- Atlantic coast, north-west Morocco
- Known for
- Ramparts, murals, seafood
- Allow
- Half a day to 1 day
- From Tangier
- About 45 minutes
- Best time
- May to October
In this guide
The medina and ramparts
Asilah's medina is compact and easy to explore on foot. The Portuguese-built ramparts and the Raissouni Palace tower stand on the seafront, and you can walk along the walls for views of the sea. Artists have painted murals on many of the white walls.
The arts festival
Since 1978, an annual arts festival has invited painters and sculptors from around the world to decorate the town. It takes place in summer, with exhibitions, concerts and poetry, and has made Asilah known as a cultural centre. See our festivals guide.
Beaches and the coast
The town beach is long and sandy, popular with Moroccan families in summer. The Atlantic can be rough, so check conditions and flags before swimming. Nearby Paradise Beach and the Hercules area offer quieter spots.
Food and shopping
Seafood is the speciality, and small restaurants along the port grill fish and prawns. Shops in the medina sell pottery, textiles and paintings. See our Moroccan food guide.
Getting there
Asilah is on the train line from Tangier (about 30 to 45 minutes). The train station is a short taxi ride from the medina. It is also close to Larache, which is about 45 km to the south. See getting around Morocco.
A good day in Asilah
Arrive mid-morning, explore the medina and the murals before the sun is high, then have a seafood lunch. Walk along the ramparts in the afternoon, relax on the beach, and watch the sunset over the Atlantic from the ramparts near the Raissouni Tower. Evening is peaceful, with cafes and small restaurants around the main squares.
Murals and the art scene
The walls of the medina are repainted each year, so the artwork you see changes constantly. Small galleries and studios sell paintings, ceramics and textiles, and some artists invite visitors in.
Where to stay and eat
Asilah has small guesthouses within the medina and beach hotels outside it. Restaurants near the port serve fresh fish, prawns and calamari; ask about the catch of the day and agree prices before ordering.
Day trips from Asilah
Visit Larache and the Roman site of Lixus to the south, Tangier and Cap Spartel to the north, or the prehistoric Mzoura stone circle inland. Our itinerary page shows how to fit the north coast into a longer trip.
Frequently asked questions
Is Asilah worth a visit?
Yes. It is a pleasant, small town with a beautiful old quarter and a laid-back feel, and it is easy to combine with Tangier.
How long should I spend in Asilah?
A few hours is enough for the medina, though many people stay a night to enjoy the sunset and the beach.
What is the best time to visit Asilah?
May to October, when the weather is warm and the festival season is under way.