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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Top Asilah Family Hotels

Pasta Plaza Hotel

Asilah Beach

Parking included
Free WiFi
Restaurant
Air conditioning
Room service
Housekeeping

₩132,602 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 24 - Nov 25

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers

Riad Oasis d'Asilah

Medina

Outdoor pool

₩195,228 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 24 - Nov 25

Sultana Larache

Old Town

Breakfast included
Free WiFi
Restaurant
Air conditioning
Business services
Laundry

₩205,558 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 24 - Nov 25

HAMZA SAHRAOUI

Bni Makada

10 outdoor pools

₩467,000 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 24 - Nov 25

Elite Holiday Homes - Luxury & Centric Flat

Tangier

Kitchen
Washer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space
24/7 front desk

₩85,132 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 30 - Dec 1

RIMAS Apparthôtel

Branes

Kitchen
Washer
Parking included
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
24/7 front desk

₩147,645 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 24 - Nov 25

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Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Hotel Al Khaima

10/10 Excellent

"Great host , convenient location "

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Frequently asked questions

What's Asilah like for family-friendly vacations?

If you've been thinking about a trip with your kids, the walkable destination of Asilah is a good choice. The excursions, museums, and festivals are just a few things that make this an attractive vacation spot for families. Arrange a flight into Tangier (TNG-Ibn Batouta), which is located 19.2 mi (30.8 km) from the city center.

What's the best place to stay for a family vacation to Asilah?

Riad Oasis d'Asilah is a riad with a children's pool and a restaurant, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families.

When's the best time to book a family-friendly vacation in Asilah?

The hottest months are usually August and July with an average temp of 75°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 57°F. Average annual precipitation for Asilah is 28 inches.

What's there to see and do with your family in Asilah?

While you are visiting Asilah, you might want to round up the kiddos and make time to see interesting attractions such as Centre Hassan II, Asilah Port, and Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales. Make sure you have lots of time for activities like Galerie Hakim and Aplanos Gallery.

What's the best way for us to get around Asilah?

To see more of the larger area, hop on a train at Asilah Station. Asilah may not have many public transit options to choose from so consider renting a car to explore more.

Find Family Hotels in Asilah

Change your mind

Treat yourself

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Check availability on Asilah Family Hotels

Top Asilah Family Hotels

Pasta Plaza Hotel

Riad Oasis d'Asilah

Sultana Larache

HAMZA SAHRAOUI

Elite Holiday Homes - Luxury & Centric Flat

RIMAS Apparthôtel

Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Hotel Al Khaima

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Frequently asked questions