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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Our top choices for Asilah resorts

Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort & Spa

Hjar Ennhal

Zaki

AED 556 total

includes taxes & fees

7 Feb - 8 Feb

Lixus Beach Resort – All Inclusive

Larache

Khayat

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Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent

"Amazing and friendly Staff "

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 is Asilah like for a resort vacation?

You deserve a getaway, and a resort is the perfect place to treat yourself to the services and amenities you need for a relaxing trip to Asilah. One of the comfortable resort hotels in the area might be just what you're searching for, whether you're hoping for a luxurious suite, blissful spa treatments, or activities for the kids.

What's a top resort in Asilah?

Here are our top-rated resorts near Asilah: Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort & Spa - Luxury resort. 14.4 mi (23.2 km) from Asilah. Features 3 restaurants, a private beach, and a golf course. Lixus Beach Resort – All Inclusive - All-inclusive resort. 16.9 mi (27.2 km) from Asilah. Has a golf course, a children's pool, and a Turkish Bath/Hammam.

What can I do in Asilah?

Learn about the local history at monuments like El-Hamra Tower, or head to Paradise Beach for some time by the water. Additional attractions in the area include Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales and Asilah Port.

What's the weather like 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 the best way to get to and around Asilah?

Fly into Tangier (TNG-Ibn Batouta), which is located 19.2 mi (30.8 km) from the heart of the city. To venture out into the surrounding area, ride aboard one of the trains from Asilah Station.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

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Search Resorts in Asilah

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check prices for these dates

Our top choices for Asilah resorts

Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort & Spa

Lixus Beach Resort – All Inclusive

Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Hilton Tangier Al Houara Resort & Spa

Asilah 32

Hôtel Al Alba Hammam & Restaurant

Riad Oasis d'Asilah

Hotel Al Khaima

Pasta Plaza Hotel

Diagonal Hotel

Hotel Zelis

Frequently asked questions

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