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.

Pet Friendly Hotels & Resorts in Asilah from NZ$129

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Our top choices for Asilah pet-friendly hotels

Bel Appartement Neuf

Medina

includes taxes & fees

1 Jan - 2 Jan 2026

Cozy apartment with pools for daily rental

Asilah

includes taxes & fees

10 Jan - 11 Jan 2026

Don't miss this unique blue planet.

Medina

includes taxes & fees

5 Jan - 6 Jan 2026

The Maison Bleu room

TANGER

includes taxes & fees

30 Dec - 31 Dec

Brise d’Océan Tanger

Branes

includes taxes & fees

10 Jan - 11 Jan 2026

Accommodation abdel

Larache

includes taxes & fees

30 Dec - 31 Dec

Spacious Apartment in beautiful Tangier

Tanger

includes taxes & fees

3 Jan - 4 Jan 2026

Appartement corniche Tanger

Branes

includes taxes & fees

1 Jan - 2 Jan 2026

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Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Hotel Al Khaima

10/10 Excellent

"Great host , convenient location "

Frequently asked questions

What's the best dog-friendly place to stay in Asilah?

Dar Bouanani is a top guest house for people travelling with their pets and offers concierge services for its human guests. Dar Yemma is a haven of peace and tranquillity. is another option for a stay with your pet.

What's the best time of year to travel to Asilah with my pet?

When you're travelling with pets, keeping tabs on the weather can help you make the trip more safe and fun for everyone. The hottest months are usually August and July, with an average temperature of 24°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 14°C. Average annual precipitation for Asilah is 701 mm.

What is there to see and do with your pet in Asilah?

Known for its festivals, Asilah has lots to offer visitors, including its monuments, waterfront and museums. See the local sights and visit Centre de Hassan II Rencontres Internationales and Asilah Port. While you're there, make sure you don't miss Paradise Beach and Centre Hassan II.

Pet Friendly Hotels & Resorts in Asilah from NZ$129

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on Asilah Pet Friendly Hotels

Our top choices for Asilah pet-friendly hotels

Bel Appartement Neuf

Cozy apartment with pools for daily rental

Don't miss this unique blue planet.

The Maison Bleu room

Brise d’Océan Tanger

Accommodation abdel

Spacious Apartment in beautiful Tangier

Appartement corniche Tanger

Charming House Between the Forest and the sea

Oumnia Luxe Stay Spacieux Central

Top Asilah Hotel Reviews

Hotel Al Khaima

Frequently asked questions