Planning a trip to Morocco? Agadir, a seaside town on the Atlantic coast, has a long sandy beach , a sunny climate all year round and a unique history marked by the 1960 earthquake. We were won over by this modern city, which has risen from the ashes while preserving its Moroccan identity. Between the lively seafront, the colorful souk and excursions into the hinterland, the capital of Souss offers a diversity of experiences that will delight all travelers.
Discover our ideas for what to do in Agadir, illustrated with photos that will make you want to go. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Strolling along the corniche
Why visit?
Agadir’s seafront promenade stretches for several kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. Lined with palm trees and cafés, it’s the beating heart of the city’s seaside life. We enjoyed this walk at sunset, when orange hues illuminate the bay. Here you can watch joggers, families out for a stroll and bathers on vacation. The atmosphere on the corniche is relaxed and friendly, perfect for soaking up the local ambience. Numerous restaurants and terraces line the course, offering breathtaking ocean views. We enjoyed a drink there.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace
- Opening hours: accessible at all times
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: flat promenade accessible to disabled people
- Rates: free access
- Access: from downtown, on foot or by cab
- Parking: paid parking lots along the corniche
- Eating and drinking: numerous cafés and restaurants along the promenade
WHERE TO STAY IN Agadir
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
On the seafront
Hotel The View Agadir – See prices, photos and availability
Founty, southern seaside resort
Riad Villa Blanche – See prices, photos and availability
North coast and Taghazout
Hyatt Regency Taghazout Bay Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
2. Explore Souk El Had
Why visit?
Souk El Had is one of Morocco’s biggest markets. Its hundreds of stalls are organized into themed districts: spices, handicrafts, clothing, fruit and vegetables. We were fascinated by the profusion of objects, colors and smells. You’ll discover the art of Moroccan-style negotiation and be able to pick up authentic souvenirs. Spice stalls offer a remarkable visual spectacle, while artisans work leather and silver before your very eyes. The souk is also the ideal place to sample local products such as argan oil and thyme honey. You’ll also find all kinds of shoes, clothes, utensils and gadgets. A veritable Ali Baba’s cave!
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 2h to 3h minimum
- Opening hours: open daily from 9am to 9pm (10pm on Thursdays), closed on Mondays
- Difficulties and PRM access: sometimes narrow and crowded aisles
- Admission: free
- Access: by cab from downtown
- Parking: at the entrance to the souk
- Eating out: small restaurants and street food stalls inside the souk
- Guided tours of the souk here
3. Enjoy Agadir Beach
Why visit?
Agadir Beach is one of the most beautiful in Morocco, stretching over several kilometers of golden sand. Protected by the bay, it offers relatively calm waters, ideal for family bathing. We particularly liked its relaxed atmosphere and modern facilities. Here you can rent deckchairs and umbrellas, enjoy water sports or simply relax in the sun. The beach is supervised in high season and has a number of food and beverage outlets. Street vendors sell mint tea and Moroccan pastries.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: half or full day
- Opening hours: permanently open, supervision from 9am to 6pm in season
- Difficulties and access for the disabled: adapted access on certain sections of the beach
- Rates: free access, deckchair hire for a fee
- Access: from the seafront promenade
- Parking: nearby pay parking lots
- Catering: restaurants and snack bars along the beach, street vendors
4. Take the cable car and admire the view over the city
Why visit?
The Agadir cable car offers a spectacular ascent to the heights of the city. From the glass cabins, you’ll enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the bay, port, beach and urban sprawl of Agadir. We loved flying over the arid hills of argan trees, contrasting with the blue of the ocean. We were also impressed by the panoramic view, which allowed us to grasp the full geography of the region. At the summit, an observation platform awaits you to immortalize the landscape. The ride itself is a memorable experience for young and old alike. It’s also a great way to get to the Kasbah Oufella, the town’s ancient citadel. Save time and book your round-trip ticket here!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h to 1h30 round trip, including observation time at the summit
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Rates: payable
- Difficulties and Access PMR: accessible to people with reduced mobility
- Access: departure station in the city center
- Parking: parking lot near the station
- Catering: summit café
- Book your ticket here
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Maroc
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Adapt your choice of vehicle to your itinerary!
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
5. Visit Kasbah Oufella
Why visit?
Kasbah Oufella, perched high above the town, is Agadir’s ancient citadel, which was still inhabited before the devastating earthquake of 1960. Now in ruins, the archaeological site provides an insight into the city’s history and development. We found the tour fascinating. It sheds light on the city’s past and the events that shaped it. You’ll discover the remains of this former 16th-century Dutch fortress and the emblematic inscription “God, Country, King” visible from the town. We strongly advise you to take the audioguide or read the explanatory panels to fully enjoy this emotionally-charged visit.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 30min to 1h
- Opening hours: open daily from 10am to 8pm in summer, 9am to 7pm the rest of the year.
- PRM access: yes for most of the site
- Admission: paying entry
- Access: by cable car or by car along the winding road
- Parking: parking lot at the summit
- Catering: nearby café
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
6. Discover the Museum of Reconstruction in Agadir
Why visit?
Agadir’s Museum of Reconstruction is a must for understanding the city’s history and its current configuration. We visited this venue shortly after it opened, and were impressed by its original staging. The main hall features information panels oriented in all directions, creating a visual echo of the chaos of the earthquake. This highly instructive museum offers an insight into the 1960 earthquake and its impact on the city. You’ll discover poignant personal accounts, period photographs and archival documents tracing the city’s reconstruction. An essential visit to understand Agadir in all its historical dimension.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1h to 1h30
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed on Tuesdays
- Handicap access: museum not wheelchair accessible, elevator present
- Admission: paying entry
- Access: downtown
- Parking: nearby parking lot
- Eating out: cafés and restaurants in the neighbourhood
A LITTLE MORE PATIENCE
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay at Maroc a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Coming soon!
7. Stroll through Agadir’s Polizzi Medina
Why visit?
Agadir’s Medina Polizzi is an amazing place that recreates the Kasbah Oufella as it was before the earthquake. This creation by Italian artist Coco Polizzi offers a lively vision of traditional Moroccan architectural heritage. We found this place surprising, perhaps a little superficial, but nonetheless pleasant to browse. Here you’ll find attractive craft stores and meticulous architecture that faithfully reproduces ancestral building techniques. The medina is the perfect complement to a visit to Kasbah Oufella, bringing to life what daily life was like in the ancient city. A great place for a cultural stroll and authentic souvenir shopping.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Opening hours: open every day
- Difficulties and PRM access: paved floor, some stairs
- Admission: paying entry
- Access: a few kilometers from the town center, by cab
- Parking: free on-site parking
- Catering: traditional restaurant in the medina grounds
8. Marvel at the Crocoparc Animal Park
Why visit?
The Parc Crocoparc d’Agadir is a friendly zoological park dedicated to the discovery of crocodiles and regional fauna. The fun trail allows you to observe these impressive reptiles in a recreated natural environment. You can also see monkeys, snakes, iguanas and turtles. We stumbled upon Education Week during our visit, and took advantage of the many children’s workshops that made the experience particularly lively. You’ll learn all about the flora and fauna of the Souss region. The park’s goals of environmental preservation and awareness make this visit all the more worthwhile. An ideal family outing combining fun and discovery of Moroccan biodiversity.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 2h to 3h
- Opening hours: open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: accessible route
- Admission: paying entry
- Access: 14km from Agadir center, by cab or car
- Parking: large free parking lot
- Catering: snack bar and café-restaurant on site
- Click here to find out more
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9. Visit the Agadir Art Museum
Why visit?
The Musée d’Art d’Agadir displays a collection of contemporary Moroccan art and traditional crafts in a modern setting. You’ll discover paintings, photographs, tapestries and jewelry that bear witness to the region’s artistic vitality. We enjoyed this cultural and artistic interlude during our stay in Agadir. Temporary exhibitions regularly renew the interest of the site. The museum is also a welcome refuge during the hottest hours of the day. A visit that provides a better understanding of the Moroccan art scene and its Berber, Arab and Western influences.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 45min to 1h
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Tuesdays
- Handicap access: accessible museum
- Admission: paying entry
- Access: downtown
- Parking: nearby parking lot
- Eating out: cafés and restaurants in the neighbourhood
10. Stroll around the Marina
Why visit?
The Marina d’Agadir is a modern marina with a seaside atmosphere. Lined with restaurants, cafés and boutiques, it’s a pleasant place to stroll at the end of the day. We enjoyed strolling along the quays, admiring the yachts and sailboats moored there. Enjoy fresh seafood and views of the harbor and ocean. The marina also hosts cultural events and entertainment throughout the year. It’s the ideal place for a relaxed evening by the sea, in a cosmopolitan atmosphere reminiscent of Mediterranean seaside resorts.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Opening hours: accessible at all times
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: easy, flat access
- Rates: free access
- Access: south of the main beach
- Parking: marina parking lot
- Catering: numerous fish and seafood restaurants
11. Relax in the Olhao Garden
Why visit?
The Jardin Olhao is a beautifully landscaped area in the heart of Agadir, named in homage to the Portuguese twin city. This exotic garden is home to lush vegetation including palms, bougainvillea and Mediterranean plants. We found the place interesting because of its original architecture. Here you can stroll along well-tended paths and discover the small memorial dedicated to the 1960 earthquake. It’s a peaceful place that’s popular with local families. An ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while staying downtown in the shade.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 30min to 1h
- Opening hours: open every day
- Difficulties and PRM access: flat, accessible paths
- Admission: free
- Access: downtown, on foot
- Parking: downtown parking lots
- Catering: cafés and restaurants nearby
12. Explore the city center and its emblematic monuments
Why visit?
Completely rebuilt after 1960, Agadir’s city center boasts a modern, orderly architecture that contrasts with traditional Moroccan medinas. We discovered several emblematic monuments that tell the story of the city. The Wall of Remembrance pays tribute to the victims of the earthquake, while the Cinema Sahara bears witness to the golden age of Moroccan cinema. Talborjt’s Immeubles 01 and 02 are examples of reconstruction architecture. We also admired the Mohammad V Mosque and the Loubnan Mosque, whose minarets dominate the cityscape. An architectural stroll that helps you understand Agadir’s renaissance.
Practical advice
- Duration of the visit: 1 hour
- Opening hours: permanently open (outdoors)
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: flat, accessible streets
- Rates: free access
- Access: on foot from any point in the center
- Parking: pay parking lots in the center
- Catering: numerous restaurants and cafés
13. Dreaming of a dinner show
Why visit?
To immerse yourself in Moroccan and Berber culture, we recommend a dinner and show. In Agadir, several establishments offer evenings combining local gastronomy and traditional artistic performances. They showcase the region’s cultural heritage through magical decor and performances. You’ll be able to enjoy local cuisine while admiring musicians, dancers in traditional costumes and horseback riders, if included in the program. The Spectacle Chems, for example, is one of the most popular activities for this type of experience. Restaurant Le Mauresque also organizes beautiful dinner shows. A memorable evening that, in our opinion, is the perfect end to a day of discoveries!
Practical advice
- Find out more about Agadir’s dinner shows here
- Tour duration: 3 to 4 hours including dinner and show
- Access: a few kilometers from downtown
- Parking: on-site parking
DISCOVER Agadir
- Things to do in Agadir
- Best hotels
- Best restaurants
- Itineraries: 1 day – 2 days – 3 days – 1 week
- How to get there
14. Surfing at Taghazout Village
Why visit?
Taghazout is a former fishing village that has become one of Morocco’s most famous surf spots. Situated just 20km north of Agadir, we’ve found this small coastal town to have an authentic charm, despite the influx of holidaymakers. You’ll be seduced by its relaxed atmosphere and colorful lanes leading down to the ocean. The main beach offers excellent conditions for beginner surfers, while the surrounding spots are ideal for experienced riders. The village abounds with bohemian cafés and small restaurants where you can enjoy grilled fish and fresh juices in front of the waves. We recommend this getaway! Find out more about excursions to Taghazout.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: half to full day
- Difficulties and PRM access: sloping village, narrow streets, numerous staircases
- Access: 20km north of Agadir on the coastal road, by cab or car.
- Parking: paid parking lots
- Catering: numerous cafés and restaurants
15. Leaving for Paradise Valley
Why visit?
Paradise Valley lives up to its name. Nestled in the foothills of the Anti-Atlas about 30km from Agadir, this verdant gorge offers a striking contrast to the arid coastline. For part of the year, natural pools with turquoise waters line the wadi, lined with palm trees and oleanders. We enjoyed the rugged beauty of the road leading to it, as well as the site itself. If the water’s there, you can take a dip in the cool pools fed by small waterfalls, a delight on hot days. Plan to do some walking though. Ponds and water features are accessible after a hike. The easiest way to get there is to take an organized tour and let yourself be guided through the valley.
Practical advice
- Find Paradise Valley excursions here
- Visit duration: half to full day
- Opening hours: open all year round, but prefer mornings to avoid crowds
- Difficulties and PRM access: not suitable for people with reduced mobility
- Rates: free access, please allow a tip for local guides
- Access: 30km from Agadir towards Imouzzer des Ida Outanane, by car or organized excursion.
- Parking: parking lot at trail entrance
- Catering: small traditional restaurants offering tajines and grilled meats along the road and on the trail
Things to do in Agadir: other ideas
Other beaches in Agadir
The Agadir region abounds in beautiful beaches. We came across some beautiful seaside spots on our travels. Anza Beach, just before Agadir, is also bordered by a beautiful corniche. Aourir beach, further north, offers a wilder, more authentic setting.
Things to do in Agadir with children
Agadir is a family destination, we assure you! Young and old alike can enjoy animal and water parks. . The supervised beach and numerous playgrounds are ideal attractions. Here are a few ideas for activities:
- The Crocoparc Park is sure to delight young nature enthusiasts. Crocodiles, reptiles and monkeys are waiting to be discovered. Click here to buy your tickets.
- At Agadir Dolphin World they can meet dolphins, and at Danialand Water Park they can have fun in the water!
- Agadir’s little train runs along the corniche and downtown.
Things to do in Agadir when it rains
Rainy days are not so common in Agadir, but if it does happen the Museum of Reconstruction and the Museum of Art offer interesting cultural alternatives. The Souk El Had is also a great place to take shelter while discovering this large covered market. The city’s modern shopping malls are also an option.
Excursions around Agadir
Discover Taroudant
Nicknamed “little Marrakech”, the city offers an atmosphere untouched by mass tourism. Its imposing ochre ramparts, built in the 16th century under the Saadian dynasty, encircle a lively medina where craftsmen and merchants keep traditions alive. We were seduced by the tranquil atmosphere of its souks. Here you’ll discover renowned Berber crafts: silver jewelry, pottery, carpets and leather goods. Place Assarag is the heart of the city, ideal for observing local life over a cup of mint tea. An excursion that, in our opinion, gives you a taste of authentic Morocco.
Visiting Marrakech
Marrakech is just a 3-hour drive from Agadir on the A7 freeway. Why not take a day trip to discover one of Morocco’s most fascinating imperial cities? We were captivated by the contrast between the modern seaside resort of Agadir and the thousand-year-old bustle of Marrakech. You can stroll through the labyrinthine souks of the medina, admire Jemaa el-Fna Square at sunset and visit architectural gems such as the Bahia Palace or the Saadian Tombs. Along the way, we passed through the spectacular scenery of the High Atlas Mountains. Organized excursions from Agadir include transport and a guide to make the most of this getaway.
Sinking into the desert
We were impressed by the dunes and desert expanses on the outskirts of Agadir. They offer an ideal playground for thrill-seekers. Excursions into the arid hinterland offer unforgettable experiences. Sandboards, quads, buggies and 4WDs will take you down desert tracks. You can also meet the local Berber population. At the end of the day, some tours offer dinner in nomad tents, lulled by traditional music and the silence of the desert. A refreshing change from the seaside atmosphere of the coast.
Useful tips for visiting Agadir
Where is Agadir?
- On Morocco’s Atlantic coast, in the Souss-Massa region
- Agadir to Marrakech = 3h drive
- Agadir to Essaouira = 2h30 drive
- Agadir to Taroudant = 1h15 drive
- Here’s a map to help you find your way around Agadir:
How to get to Agadir?
- By plane: Al Massira International Airport is around 30km from the city center, or around 30min by car. It offers direct flights from several European cities (including Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, London, Madrid) as well as domestic flights from Casablanca – See available flights
- By car: Agadir is linked to Marrakech by the A7 freeway (3h) and to Casablanca by the A7 and A3 freeways (5h30). Roads are good, making it easy to reach the city from Morocco’s major cities. The N1 national road runs along the Atlantic coast from Essaouira (2h30).
- By bus: Companies like CTM and Supratours connect Agadir with the main cities. This is a more economical option, with regular departures from Marrakech, Casablanca, Essaouira or Rabat.
- Organized excursions or private transfers: If you’re staying in Marrakech, Essaouira or Casablanca, there are guided tours of one or more days including transport and visits to Agadir.
Parking in Agadir
Parking in Agadir is relatively easy. Numerous pay parking lots are available in the city center and near tourist attractions. Parking attendants are present everywhere and are usually paid a small fee. Large hotels often have their own parking lots.
Getting around Agadir
- On foot: Agadir’s city center and corniche are easily accessible on foot, but bring good shoes if you’re in for a long walk.
- By cab: Cabs are available throughout the city. They are convenient and inexpensive. We advise you to ask the driver to start the meter or to negotiate the fare before the journey. It’s the easiest way to get to out-of-the-way places like Parc Crocoparc, Medina Polizzi or your hotel.
- By rental car: Renting a car can be handy for visiting Agadir or if you’re planning excursions to Paradise Valley, Taroudant or Taghazout.
- In a large cab: These shared cabs, often white cars, connect Agadir with surrounding towns and villages such as Taroudant, Tiznit or Essaouira. It’s a fast, affordable option for long-distance travel if you don’t have your own vehicle.
- With a local guide: To better understand the medina and avoid going round in circles, hiring an official guide is an excellent idea, especially on a first visit.
Where to eat in Agadir
Agadir offers a wide range of gastronomic delights, from fresh fish restaurants to traditional or more Western-inspired restaurants. We particularly enjoyed the grilled fish and fragrant tagines. Here are a few good addresses:
- Riad Villa Blanche restaurant: nestled in a beautiful hotel, this restaurant with its superb setting offers a varied menu that revisits traditional ingredients.
- Restaurant Mima Kitchen: in the Hotel View Agadir, refined Moroccan cuisine. We really enjoyed it!
- Restaurant Le Mauresque: traditional decor and culinary delights, spiced up with dinner shows!
Visiting Agadir in winter
Agadir enjoys a mild climate all year round, making it a popular winter destination for Europeans. Temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C from December to February. We found this to be an ideal time to visit, with fewer tourists and plenty of sunshine. Swimming is still possible for those who don’t mind the cold, and excursions into the hinterland are particularly pleasant without the summer heat.
Other tips
- Islam is the official state religion, so you’ll hear the 5 daily calls to prayer echoing throughout Morocco from the minarets of mosques.
- Note a specific weekly rhythm: on Fridays, the Muslim prayer day, some shops adapt their opening hours or close. But it’s not an official holiday.
- On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), some stores close on Saturdays, especially those belonging to the Jewish community, and others on Sundays.
- Morocco remains a modern, economically liberal Muslim country, open to the world and cultivating a balance between tradition and international dynamics.
Read all our tips for visiting Morocco in our dedicated article here.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Morocco
- Best of
The most beautiful landscapes in Morocco
What to do in Morocco (coming soon)
The most beautiful riads
The most beautiful cities
The most beautiful medinas
The most beautiful gardens (coming soon)
The best museums (coming soon)
The most beautiful beaches in Morocco (coming soon)
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Morocco (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Morocco (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Marrakech
Casablanca
Fès
Meknès
Chefchaouen
Sahara Desert (coming soon)
