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 Hotels with Bars

Hotel Al Khaima

Asilah Beach

Mobarak

AED 320 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Nov - 19 Nov

Ayry Owner's Villa with ocean view | 1 bedroom, minibar, in-room safe, blackout drapes

LA FIERMONTINA OCEAN

Sahel

Anonymous traveler

AED 1,553 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Dec - 2 Dec

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers

Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort & Spa

Hjar Ennhal

Zaki

AED 556 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Nov - 25 Nov

Dar Zarrouk

Briech

AED 539 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Nov - 28 Nov

HAMZA SAHRAOUI

Bni Makada

AED 1,146 total

includes taxes & fees

22 Nov - 23 Nov

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Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

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 Al Khaima

10/10 Excellent

"Great host , convenient location "

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Frequently asked questions

Searching for hotels with bars in Asilah?

Asilah offers 177 hotels and other accommodations to choose from, and likely many will have a bar where you can enjoy drink after a day of exploring. While you're here, you can check out Centre Hassan II and Asilah Port.

What are the best hotels with bars in Asilah?

Here are a few of the top Asilah hotels with bars: Hotel Al Khaima: Hotel with restaurant. Enjoy the bar, free breakfast, and free WiFi. Mia Hostels: Enjoy the bar, free breakfast, and free WiFi.

What is there to do in Asilah?

Consider a visit to Centre Hassan II, Asilah Port, and Paradise Beach, and then find a cozy spot for a nightcap. Other places to see include Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales and El-Hamra Tower.

When is the best time to visit Asilah?

Visiting local bars in Asilah is better when you know what the weather holds. These rainfall averages and temperatures can help you decide the best time for bar hopping. 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.

How can I get to Asilah and around the area?

Here are some of your transportation choices in and around Asilah: Fly into Tangier (TNG-Ibn Batouta), which is located 19.2 mi (30.8 km) from the city center. If you want to explore the larger area, ride aboard one of the trains from Asilah Station.

Find Hotels with Bars in Asilah

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on Asilah Hotels with Bars

Top Asilah Hotels with Bars

Hotel Al Khaima

LA FIERMONTINA OCEAN

Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort & Spa

Dar Zarrouk

HAMZA SAHRAOUI

Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Hôtel Al Alba Hammam & Restaurant

Hotel Al Khaima

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Top neighborhoods for Hotels with Bars

More Hotel Options in Asilah

More Accommodation Types in Asilah

Hotels near popular Asilah Attractions

Asilah Hotels by Star Rating

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Frequently asked questions