Is Asilah worth visiting on your Morocco itinerary? From whitewashed streets to Atlantic sunsets, here’s what to expect and whether Asilah truly deserves your time.
Suggested Use Of The Itinerary
This meticulously crafted itinerary, from the adventures of the Traveling Taylors, serves as a blueprint for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Spain. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or embarking on your first journey to Spain, this itinerary is designed to help you create unforgettable experiences in this enchanting destination.
Please note, all prices listed were accurate at the time of writing and are provided for guidance. Be sure to check with the appropriate agencies or attractions for the most current pricing and availability. Customize this itinerary to suit your needs, trip duration, budget, and interests. Happy travels!
Morocco
Morocco In A Nutshell
Spain captivates with its sunny Mediterranean coastline, historical cities, and energetic festivals. From the majestic Alhambra in Granada to the bustling boulevards of Madrid, the country offers something for every type of traveler. Known for its warm hospitality, dynamic traditions, and tapas culture, Spain invites you to slow down, savor life, and experience the joy of “la buena vida.”
The Moroccan Canvas
Spain is renowned for its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage: think snow-capped peaks in the Pyrenees, golden beaches of Costa del Sol, and historic cities like Toledo and Seville. Whether you’re wandering the corridors of ancient Moorish palaces or enjoying a seaside siesta, Spain’s spirit is as rich as its paella.
The Moroccan Currency
The official currency of Spain is the Euro (€). It is the only accepted currency across the country. While most major credit and debit cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand is helpful, especially in small towns or local markets.
Spain was one of the first countries to adopt the euro and has used the euro as its only and official currency since January 1st 1999, exactly 13 years (to the day) after it joined the European Union (EU). If you are traveling from a country outside the eurozone, you will be able to change money by showing your passport at a number of exchange offices located in tourist areas, which tend to charge comparatively lower commission rates than elsewhere. You can also get euros from your hotel establishment. Bear in mind that, generally speaking, shops and restaurants do not accept payment in any other currency.
Visa Requirements
Do You Need A Visa?
U.S. citizens can visit Spain for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. You’ll need a valid passport (good for 3 months beyond your stay), proof of accommodation, round-trip flights, and proof of sufficient funds.
Starting in 2025, travelers must also obtain ETIAS authorization to visit 30 European countries, including Spain. It costs €7 (about $8), is valid for 3 years, and allows 90-day stays within any 180-day period. It’s free for those under 18 or over 70. Apply at the official ETIAS website with your personal and travel info.
To stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a long-term visa or residence permit before your trip. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and travel bans.
Digital Nomad Visa: Available under Spain’s 2023 Startup Act, this visa is for non-EU/EEA citizens with a remote job or freelance income from outside Spain. You must earn at least €2,400/month, have a degree or professional certification, and apply through a Spanish consulate. It’s valid for 12 months, renewable up to 5 years, and offers potential tax benefits.
Retirement Visa: Spain offers two main retirement Visas:
• Non-Lucrative Visa (for financially independent retirees not seeking employment)
• Golden Visa (for investors in real estate or Spanish businesses)
Both require proof of funds, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. Residency can lead to permanent status after five years. Due to the complexity, consult a Spanish consulate or legal expert when applying.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
We added Asilah to our Morocco route almost on a whim. Between bigger cities and busy medinas, Asilah looked like a quiet coastal pause. But was Asilah actually worth the detour — or just pretty in photos? After spending time wandering its streets, here’s our honest take on whether Asilah deserves a spot on your itinerary.
The first thing you’ll notice about Asilah is how calm it feels.
Unlike larger Moroccan cities, Asilah is compact, clean, and easy to navigate. The medina in Asilah is small enough to explore without getting lost for hours, yet charming enough to keep you wandering.
Asilah stands out for:
Whitewashed walls with blue accents
Wide, tidy alleyways
Minimal traffic inside the medina
A relaxed coastal atmosphere
After navigating busier destinations, arriving in Asilah felt like exhaling. The pace is slower, the streets quieter, and the energy noticeably softer.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by Morocco’s bigger cities, Asilah offers balance.
Things to Do in Asilah
While Asilah isn’t packed with major monuments, it offers simple pleasures that make it memorable.
1. Wander the Medina
The medina of Asilah is the highlight. White walls, colorful doors, and rotating murals from the annual arts festival give Asilah a creative edge.
2. Walk the Ramparts
The fortified walls of Asilah overlook the Atlantic Ocean. From here, you can watch waves crash against the rocks below. Sunset in Asilah from the ramparts is especially beautiful.
3. Visit the Beaches
Paradise Beach, just outside Asilah, is a wide sandy stretch perfect for relaxing. Even closer to town, coastal paths in Asilah offer scenic viewpoints.
4. Enjoy Café Culture
Small cafés tucked into corners of Asilah invite you to slow down with mint tea or coffee.
Asilah isn’t about checking off attractions. It’s about atmosphere.
How Long Should You Stay in Asilah?
This depends on your travel style.
If you’re short on time, Asilah works well as:
A half-day stop
A relaxed lunch break between cities
If your schedule allows, Asilah is even better as:
A one-night stay
A beach-and-medina combo day
We recommend at least one overnight in Asilah if possible. The town feels different once day-trippers leave and the evening calm settles in.
Asilah in the early morning is especially peaceful.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Asilah
Here’s a realistic breakdown of Asilah:
Pros
Easy to navigate
Visually beautiful and photogenic
Relaxed coastal vibe
Less aggressive selling than larger medinas
Cons
Limited major attractions
Smaller than other Moroccan cities
Can feel quiet in off-season
Asilah doesn’t overwhelm you with options — which can be either a benefit or a drawback, depending on your expectations.
Is Asilah Good for First-Time Visitors?
Yes — especially if you want a softer introduction to Morocco.
Asilah feels approachable. The medina isn’t chaotic, bargaining is more relaxed, and navigation is simple. For travelers nervous about diving straight into intense city energy, Asilah is a gentle starting point.
At the same time, Asilah still offers authentic Moroccan character — just without the pressure.
It’s also ideal for photographers. The white-and-blue palette of Asilah makes nearly every corner camera-ready.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Asilah?
Asilah shines in spring and early autumn when temperatures are mild.
Summer brings warmer weather and the annual arts festival, which adds colorful murals to Asilah’s walls. This period can be livelier and slightly busier.
Winter in Asilah is quieter and cooler, but still pleasant for walking and coastal views.
No matter the season, Asilah feels most magical near sunset.
So, Is Asilah Worth Visiting?
If you’re looking for grand monuments and nonstop sightseeing, Asilah might feel too small.
But if you want:
A peaceful coastal break
Walkable, photogenic streets
A creative and artistic atmosphere
Time to slow down
Then Asilah is absolutely worth visiting.
For us, Asilah was a reset. After days of navigating busy medinas, Asilah gave us space to breathe, wander aimlessly, and simply enjoy Morocco at a slower pace. It may not be the loudest or most dramatic stop on your trip — but Asilah has a quiet charm that lingers long after you leave and sometimes, that’s exactly what makes a place unforgettable.
The best time to explore Spain is during the spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing or coastal escapes. These seasons also bring vibrant festivals, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed pace—ideal for soaking in Spain’s cultural magic and scenic beauty.
Entry Essentials
For most travelers, including U.S. citizens, a valid passport with at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date is required to enter Spain. No visa is needed for stays under 90 days, but always double-check your country’s entry requirements, and make sure to enroll in the ETIAS system once it becomes active.
Morocco Style Guide
Spain’s fashion-forward cities and varied climate call for a mix of stylish and practical wear. Lightweight clothing, a scarf or light jacket, and comfortable shoes are essentials, while modest attire is recommended for churches and religious sites to show respect.
The MoroccanTravel Creed
Travel through Spain with curiosity, courtesy, and cultural appreciation. Whether you’re savoring paella by the sea or dancing in a village square, embrace the traditions, support local artisans, and let the passion of Spain’s people inspire every moment of your journey.
Budgeting In Morocco
The Euro
The Euro, which uses the currency sign €, is the official monetary currency of Spain. If you are traveling from a country outside the eurozone, you will be able to change money by showing your passport at a number of exchange offices located in tourist areas, which tend to charge comparatively lower commission rates than elsewhere. You can also get euros from your hotel establishment. Bear in mind that, generally speaking, shops and restaurants do not accept payment in any other currency.
Carrying small denominations is ideal for taxis, cafés, and tipping.
Using Euros in Spain
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas across Spain, it’s always wise to carry some Euros in cash—especially when venturing into smaller towns, rural areas, or local markets. Many small eateries, cafés, street vendors, and transportation kiosks may only accept cash or have card minimums. Having smaller denominations on hand—such as €5, €10, or €20 bills—makes daily transactions smoother, and coins are particularly useful for public restrooms, buses, and tipping.
ATMS
ATMs are abundant in cities and tourist areas, compatible with Visa/Mastercard. Withdrawal fees range from €2–€5, and it’s recommended to withdraw in Euros to avoid dynamic currency conversion.
ATMs in Spain generally accept Visa and Mastercard debit and credit cards, so you should be able to use your card abroad without any issues. However, it’s wise to check with your home bank or card provider about any potential international transaction fees. While notifying your bank of your travel plans isn’t always necessary, doing so can help prevent your transactions from being mistakenly flagged as fraudulent, which could result in your card being blocked.
TIP
When using an ATM in Spain you’ll often be asked if you want the transaction to be processed in U.S. Dollars or Euros. While it may seem convenient to choose USD, it’s better to withdraw in the local currency without conversion. If you choose USD, the ATM applies its own exchange rate through dynamic currency conversion, which usually offers a poor rate and results in higher costs. By declining the ATM’s conversion, your bank or card provider will handle the exchange, typically offering a more favorable rate.
Tipping and Bargaining
Tipping is optional but appreciated – leave small change or round up in cafés and restaurants. Bargaining is uncommon in stores but can be acceptable in flea markets. Approach with good humor!
Budgeting in Euros
Spain offers incredible value for travelers, whether you’re on a backpacker’s budget or seeking luxury experiences. On average, budget travelers can comfortably spend around €50–€80 per day, which includes staying in hostels, eating local fare, and using public transportation. A mid-range budget of €100–€150 per day covers boutique accommodations, entrance to major attractions, and a few splurge meals. Luxury travelers may spend €200+ daily with high-end lodging, fine dining, and private tours.
Meals at local tapas bars can cost as little as €10–€15, while a more elaborate dinner with drinks might range between €30–€50. Museum or palace entries typically cost €8–€15, and many cities offer multi-attraction passes or free entry on certain days, helping you stretch your Euro further. Factor in additional costs for high-speed train tickets, day trips, and perhaps a flamenco show or cooking class to make your trip truly unforgettable.
Morocco Travel Tips
Embrace The Spanish Schedule
Spaniards dine and relax at a different pace. Lunch typically starts around 2 PM, and dinner is rarely served before 9 PM. Many shops and businesses close in the afternoon for a siesta, especially in southern regions. Don’t fight the flow—embrace the rhythm by planning sightseeing in the mornings and evenings, and resting or enjoying a long lunch in the heat of the day.
Book Tickets To Major Attractions Online
Iconic sites like often sell out days or even weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking ahead guarantees entry and often lets you skip long lines. Some attractions also offer guided tours or combo tickets that include audio guides, making your visit more informative and immersive.
Use Google Translate or a Phrasebook
While English is spoken in tourist hotspots, many locals in smaller towns and rural areas speak only Spanish—or Catalan, Basque, or Galician, depending on the region. Having a translation app can help navigate menus, read signs, and communicate with locals. Even learning a few basic phrases like “Por favor” (please), “Gracias” (thank you), and “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where is the bathroom?) can go a long way in building goodwill and enriching your travel experience.
Be Cautious With Public Wi-Fi
While most cafés, hotels, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi, these networks are often unsecured. Avoid accessing sensitive information like banking apps, and consider using a VPN for safe browsing. Alternatively, buying a local SIM card with a data plan from providers like Orange, Vodafone, or Movistar is an affordable and secure option, especially for longer stays or remote working.
Pack For Variety
Spain’s geography and weather vary greatly from region to region. In summer, coastal cities like Valencia and Málaga can be hot and humid, while mountain areas like the Pyrenees may be cool and breezy. Bring layers, a mix of city-chic outfits, beachwear, and modest attire for churches and cathedrals, where shoulders and knees should be covered. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as Spain’s cobblestone streets and historic sites often require lots of walking.
Frequently Asked Travel Questions
1. When should I book my flight?
We recommend booking your flight at least 6-8 weeks in advance for domestic trips and 2-3 months ahead for international travel. If you’re planning to travel during peak seasons or holidays, it’s best to book even earlier to lock in better prices and secure your preferred dates.
2. How much cash should I bring?
We usually bring enough cash to cover small expenses like transportation, tips, and meals- usually around $300-500. We rely on our travel credit cards and don’t really withdraw money from ATMs- only if we run out of cash. We typically carry about $100-$200 in local currency depending on the length and place of stay and then exchange some of our cash at a local currency exchange, if necessary.
3. Where should I convert my money—at home or at my destination?
We like to convert a small amount of cash before leaving so we’re covered for any initial costs like local transportation or tips. However, we’ve found that exchanging money at our destination usually gives us a better exchange rate. We also make sure to check our credit cards beforehand about any international fees.
4. Do I need travel insurance?
We recommend getting travel insurance if you’re on the older side, if you have specific health issues that may cause you to need to change your trip, or if you have a schedule that changes often. Travel insurance is just one of those things that’s better to have and not need than the other way around.
5. Is it safe for me to drink the tap water?
That really depends on where your going. In some countries, tap water is perfectly safe to drink, but in others, we stick to bottled or filtered water just to be safe. We always do a little research before we travel, and when we’re unsure, we opt for bottled water to avoid any health issues.
6. What should I pack for my trip?
We like to pack light (though we never do) and focus on the essentials—comfortable clothes, walking shoes, travel-sized toiletries, chargers, and any necessary adapters. We also bring a basic first-aid kit, sunscreen, and paper copies of important documents like our passport and travel insurance details, just in case we can’t find the orginals.
7. How can I stay connected while traveling?
We usually start by checking if our mobile carrier offers international plans. If not, buying a local SIM card or using an eSIM app tends to be a cheaper and more convenient option. We also take advantage of Wi-Fi at hotels, cafés, and airports whenever possible to save on data.
8. What’s the best way for me to get around once I arrive?
That really depends on where we’re going. We like to research local transportation options ahead of time, whether it’s public transit, ride-sharing apps, renting a car, or walking. In some places, taxis or organized tours are the easiest choice, but in others, buses and trains are much more affordable and efficient.
9. How can I keep my valuables safe while traveling?
We try to keep valuables to a minimum when we’re out and about. Important items like passports, extra cash, and important documents usually stay in a hotel safe or a locked suitcase. We also stay aware of our surroundings and avoid flashing valuables in public spaces.
10. What should I do if there’s an emergency while I’m traveling?
Before we leave, we save key contact information like local emergency numbers, our country’s embassy, and our travel insurance hotline. If something happens, we stay calm, reach out to local authorities if needed, and contact our travel insurance provider for any assistance with medical or travel-related emergencies.
Farewell, with a Spanish ¡Hasta Luego!
As your adventure through Spain draws to a close, may your heart be full of sunset strolls, savory bites, and stories to last a lifetime. ¡Hasta luego! – Until we meet again.
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