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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Aparthotels in Asilah

Classic Studio, Balcony, City View | Individually decorated, soundproofing, free WiFi

Aparthotel in Asilah

AED 132 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Dec - 24 Dec

Aparthotel in Asilah

Shareen

AED 318 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Dec - 10 Dec

Deluxe Penthouse | Private kitchen | Fridge, oven, stovetop

Aparthotel in Tangier

AED 285 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Dec - 12 Dec

Aparthotel in Branes

AED 314 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Dec - 10 Dec

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Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Riad Oasis d'Asilah

10/10 Excellent

"Beautiful Riad. Very homely and welcome. Quiet a place, one to remember."

Hôtel Al Alba Hammam & Restaurant

10/10 Excellent

"We loved our mom with the terrace. The onsite restaurant served a wonderful 3 course Moroccan meal. And the Spa is not to be missed. My wife and I had the Couples Hammam and Spa and we talked about it for the rest of the trip. Outstanding value for guests, and an unforgettable experience."

Hotel Zelis

10/10 Excellent

"We had planned on staying in Tangiers and had not realized the hotel was in Asilah, 35 minutes away by train. We decided to give Asilah a good look and were very pleased with the Hotel Zelis. Close to the rail station we found it simple and inexpensive to move around by taxis. We had a room on the fourth floor with a spectacular view of the ocean. There was a sand dredger working in the harbor but we didnt hear it ( but could see its lights).Great little breakfast buffet. Out for a stroll I had a sweet little girl about ten who made me a delicious crepe with Nutella drizzled on top. Very safe to be out walking at night. Not impressed with the Medina but maybe I’m just spoiled. Highly recommend Asilah for a couple of nights and we liked the Hotel Zelis."

Frequently asked questions

What should I expect during my Asilah aparthotel stay?

By choosing an aparthotel in Asilah, expect to be more centrally situated. You can also come to Asilah for its art and festivals.

What are the favorite aparthotels for my stay in Asilah?

Asilah 32 is a favorite aparthotel in Asilah, featuring 32 apartments with kitchenettes and free WiFi as well as hotel amenities like free breakfast. A couple of other top aparthotels to consider are Dar Bouanani and Asilah Marina Golf.

How many aparthotels are there in Asilah?

Mixed in with the 177 accommodation options to choose from in Asilah, there are 5 aparthotels bookable on Expedia.

What are the must-see places to visit in Asilah?

While you're exploring the area, Paradise Beach and Sidi Mghait Beach are a couple of picturesque spots to get outside and enjoy nature. Centre Hassan II and Asilah Port are other places to visit while you're in town.

What is an aparthotel?

An aparthotel or serviced apartment features the space and privacy found in an apartment and the amenities you expect from a traditional hotel. Often these apartments are located centrally in Asilah, where you can live like a local. Enjoy cooking in the full kitchen or kitchenette and having extra space to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

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Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Riad Oasis d'Asilah

Hôtel Al Alba Hammam & Restaurant

Hotel Al Khaima

Pasta Plaza Hotel

Hotel Zelis

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