What to do and see in Agadir

What to do and see in Agadir, Agadir is a Moroccan city located in the southern part of the country with about 100,000 inhabitants. The name Agadir has a Berber origin, which means fortified town. Despite being a modern city, Agadir is surrounded by the Anti Atlas, the Sahara desert, and natural parks, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the region’s natural wonders.

The city’s beaches, with their fine sand and sunny weather, have made Agadir a thriving tourist destination. However, it’s important to note that Agadir lacks the medina and bustling atmosphere many other Moroccan cities have. Nonetheless, Agadir offers a unique experience for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of Morocco’s southern region.

Agadir weather

Agadir is a must-visit destination for those who love the beach and sun. This tourist city in southern Morocco has over 10 km of beaches of fine sand, protected from the north wind. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, visitors can enjoy the beach almost all year round. During the summer, occupancy rates are nearly 100%, making it a popular tourist destination. Agadir has over 20,000 hotel beds, with essential hotel chains catering to an international clientele, mainly from Germany. These factors make the city one of the country’s most visited and renowned tourist destinations.

Visit Agadir

Today’s city extending at the foot of the old Kasbah has tripled its population since the cataclysm. Its superb climate means that tourists can enjoy the terraces of the establishments even during the winter. Despite not having a medina, Agadir has a contemporary architectural heritage and an interesting ethnographic museum. It is a popular tourist destination among Europeans, with a beach with all the resources for a good holiday. Although it could be more attractive as a city, this page may serve as a brief tourist guide for Agadir.

History

On February 29, 1960, Agadir was hit by a devastating earthquake that claimed over 15,000 lives and left the city in ruins. However, Morocco didn’t give up and decided to rebuild the city, turning it into an important and attractive tourist destination with modern facilities and infrastructure.

How to get to Agadir from Morocco and abroad

• By plane: The airport of Agadir al-Massira is located 25 km south of the city and offers a wide range of international flights, making it easily accessible to travelers from around the world.
• By bus: Agadir is well-connected to other cities in Morocco, with several companies providing regular services to destinations such as Essaouira, Safi, Marrakech, Casablanca, El Jadida, Trafraut, Tiznit, Tan Tan, and El Aayoune. The CTM bus station in Agadir is situated on M. Cheikh Saâdi street and serves as a hub for both local and intercity buses.
• Car: Agadir is about 3-4 hours from Essaouira, taking the N1 road and passing through Morocco’s largest forest of argan trees. It takes around 4-5 hours to get to Marrakech, from which multiple travel options exist.
• Car rental: Car rental agencies can be found at the airport in Agadir.
• Train: Agadir’s train station is located on Orangers street.

What to see in Agadir

Here are some of the top attractions and places to see in Agadir:

Bert Flint Municipal Museum: located on Mohammed V street

Open Air Theater: 100 meters from the museum

Valley of the birds (zoo)

The court: near the Valley of the Birds

Garden of Portugal and its memorial museum

Ibn Zaydoun Garden, between the Avenue of Prince Moulay Abdellah and the street of November 18

Central post office: situated amidst Avenue Mohammed VI and Avenue of Prince Moulay Abdellah.

Loubnane Mosque: located between Avenue des FARS and Avenue de Prince Moulay Abdellah

Mohammed V Mosque: positioned on President Kennedy Boulevard

Medina: an artisanal zone built by Beato Salvatore Polizzi employing customary Berber engineering methods.

Souk Alhad (souk of Sunday)

The Kasbah

The Kasbah is a breathtaking site atop a hill that overlooks the port and the city of Agadir. Standing at 236 meters, it offers a magnificent view of the ocean and the city and is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the bay. The citadel was constructed in 1540 by Mohamed Ech-Cheikh, the founder of the Saadi dynasty, as a base for his army during a siege and was later used to protect the city from Portuguese attacks. In 1752, Moulay Abdallah reinforced the fortress out of fear of a new Portuguese invasion, stationing a garrison of 2,000 renegades and Turks. However, following the 1960 earthquake, only the walls and entrance doors were left standing. The entrance door bears an inscription in Dutch dating back to 1746 that reads, “Fear God and respect the King”. Despite its ruins, the Kasbah remains an important historical and cultural landmark in Agadir.

Agadir Museum

Agadir’s city center is crossed by four main avenues: General-Ketani, Hassan II of FAR, Prince Moulay Abdallah, and Prince Sidi Mohamed. These main arteries are lined with pedestrian areas full of restaurants, shops, and craft warehouses, making up the city’s heart. After the earthquake of 1960, Agadir was rebuilt with modern neighborhoods characterized by concrete architecture, green spaces, and long avenues. The Mohamed V boulevard, located just behind the beach, is the fo, cal point of tourism, with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, banks, and other establishments. Notable contemporary buildings in Agadir include the Post Office Building, the Fire Station, and the Primary School.

Avenue des FAR

It is one of the most vibrant promenades in Agadir and a popular destination for visitors to the city. Explore various restaurants, cafes, and shops along the avenue. Taking a stroll along this lively street is a great way to experience the local culture and immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat, some souvenir shopping, or just a leisurely walk, the Avenue des FAR has something to offer everyone.

Boulevard Hassan II

A stunning promenade runs through the heart of Agadir, separating the city’s center. It constitutes, together with Avenue du General Kettani, Avenue des FAR and Avenue Mohamed VI, the living center of the modern city of Agadir.

Corniche

The Corniche of Agadir is a beautiful promenade along the city’s extensive and attractive beach. This long avenue is full of restaurants, shops, and entertainment, making it a popular spot for visitors to stroll both during the day and at night. It offers a picturesque view of the sea and the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze.

The Central Market

Agadir is a must-visit destination for those exploring the local cuisine and culture. With its endless variety of spices, many of which are produced in the region, the market is a surprising and fascinating place to explore. From fresh produce to traditional snacks, the Central Market is a hub of activity where locals and visitors come to shop, taste and experience the authentic flavors of Morocco.

The Port of Agadir

After being reconstructed, the Port of Agadir has become Morocco’s most important fishing port and the world’s leading sardine port. The port is home to various frozen and canned factories and handles citrus, canned products, and minerals, among other exports. Agadir has emerged as a leading sardine port and surpassed its rival Safi to become one of the most important ports in the world. Suppose you’re interested in experiencing the local fish industry. In that case, the fish market in Agadir holds fish auctions every afternoon, giving visitors a glimpse into the hustle and bustle of the daily fish trade. The hustle and bustle of the fish market make it an interesting place to visit and experience the port’s energy.

Agadir Museum

Established in 1992 at the Municipal Theater facilities, it is an interesting place to learn about the popular arts and traditions of the Souss Valley and the Saharan regions. The museum’s collection includes a wide range of traditional objects assembled by Bert Flint, a Dutch crafts expert who settled in Morocco in 1957. Visitors can compare these items with the handicrafts sold in the region today, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in the history and culture of the area.

Boulevard 20 Août

The resplendent Vallée des Oiseaux (Valley of the Birds) is a well-located and well-kept park located between Boulevard 20 Août and Boulevard Mohammed V. It’s an ideal spot to learn about the native fauna, and the Recreational Courtyard is a great place for children to spend hours playing and having fun.

The Boulevard Mohammed V

It draws a dividing line between the modern city and the tourist area, the Boulevard Mohamed V differs from the other routes for its architecture and the excellent hotels it houses.

The theater of Agadir

Its exterior and interior design and semicircular amphitheater are reminiscent of ancient Roman theaters. The stage, crowned by a hanging garden, is a place for concerts and shows throughout the year.

Where to eat

For dining options in Agadir, there are three main areas to choose from:

New Talbourjt: offers the cheapest restaurants in the city and is popular among tourists.

The beach: Near the beach, there are many dining options, including fast food, international cuisine, and seafood restaurants, although this area can be more expensive.

Around the Uniprix: features a mix of tourist-oriented and local restaurants with prices that fall in the middle range.

RESTAURANTS

Expensive and modern

Pure Passion Restaurant: is an excellent option for those looking for a fine dining experience in Agadir. Located in the marina, the restaurant offers a pleasant terrace and serves international dishes with a French influence, using good quality seasonal ingredients. The menu is very varied, offering a range of European cuisine. The prices are moderate, with an approximate cost of 20 to 30 euros per person.

Le Jardin d’Eau is a restaurant in Agadir known for its pleasant terrace and a wide variety of fish dishes. Visitors can enjoy live music every night except for Sundays. The restaurant is reasonably priced, costing 10-20 € per person.

Azyam restaurant in Agadir: it is a restaurant that specializes in sea delicacies, as well as in varied dishes. The approximate price is 7 – 15 € / person.

Havana Restaurant: is a charming eatery in the Agadir marina that boasts stunning views and delightful decor. Adding to its vintage charm, old American cars can be seen parked right outside the restaurant’s doors. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a meal while taking in the beauty of the marina.

Cheap

Good Taste: a restaurant of homemade Italian cuisine in Agadir, various pasta dishes, and specialty wood oven pizzas. The approximate cost is only 3-6€ per person, making it an affordable option for a tasty meal.

Portugalia: family restaurant with Portuguese and European food at good prices (between € 6 – € 11 / person).

Agadir has a lively nightlife scene with many cocktail bars and clubs, particularly in tourist areas. Alcoholic beverages are available in most of the city’s tourist hotspots. If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to unwind and enjoy a drink during the afternoon, Hassan II Avenue is the place to be. Many cafes on this street, such as La Fontaine, La Mirador, and Le Dome, offer a welcoming atmosphere and various drinks. It’s the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the local scene.

These cafes offer a range of hot and cold beverages, light snacks, and pastries.

What to see near Agadir

Beaches

The beautiful beaches of Tamrhakht and Taghazout, surrounded by banana plantations and restaurants, are popular with the locals near Agadir. Cape Ghir, a nearby peninsula, is known for its rocky coast where the ocean waves crash. Moving north from Tamri, the coastal road leads to the stunning Portuguese city of Essaouira, which is worth the 180 km journey for its charm and beauty.

Taghazout

It is a coastal town about 19 kilometers north of Agadir, towards Cape Rhir. This beautiful town enjoys a mild climate all year round, making it an excellent destination for visitors. It is important to note that Taghazout is famous for its stunning 7-kilometer-long beach, known as one of the best surfing spots in the world.

Imouzzer Ida Outanane

It Is a picturesque area situated northwest of Agadir, within the Ida Outanane region. It is famously referred to as the ‘Valley of Paradise’ and can be reached via a winding road that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can witness canyons with steep walls overlooking the river lined with lush palm trees and pink laurels. It’s a perfect spot to take in the region’s natural beauty and capture stunning photos.

The Tifrit Valley is stunningly beautiful in the Imouzzer Ida Outanane tourist region, just 60 kilometers from Agadir. The valley, nicknamed the ‘Valley of Paradise,’ is famous for its cascading waterfalls and watercourses. You can explore the valley on foot, mountain bike, 4×4, horseback, or donkey. The best time to visit is during winter, and at the end of May, the Ida Utanane tribe celebrates the honey festival.

Tiznit

It is a walled city located 78 kilometers from Agadir that offers a fascinating experience to its visitors. As you approach the city, you’ll be greeted by its beautiful crenelated pink walls, which look straight out of a movie set. Walking along these walls is an experience and will transport you to a bygone era.

The Medina

The interior of the medina hides authentic silver treasures: fibulae, frontal ornaments, rings, and daggers for men. In a courtyard of arcades, artisans can still be seen working the silver according to the symbols and traditional techniques. The great square of Mechouares is an excellent place to savor the city’s nightlife. The excursions to the surroundings are numerous and varied: Aglou beach, the fishing village and troglodyte, the palm grove of Bad Targua to 60 km on the road to Tafraoute, etc.

Tafraoute

The journey from Tiznit to Tafraoute spans 110 kilometers and includes a scenic ascent up the Kerdous pass. As the road twists and turns, it’s important to exercise caution. However, the stunning landscapes you’ll witness along the way will not be missed. As you approach Tafraoute, the scenery transforms into a valley with enormous pink granite boulders that create a breathtaking decoration. The valley is also home to palm trees and pink cubic houses seamlessly integrated into the surroundings.
Tafraoute is located in the heart of this fantastic landscape, and at sunset, the scenery comes alive with hues ranging from yellow to orange and dark violet. The beauty of Tafraoute is truly awe-inspiring and offers visitors a glimpse into a world full of splendor.