Clinging to the Atlantic Coast, Agadir is a surprising destination offering an experience unlike any other in Morocco. Rebuilt completely from scratch after the 1960 earthquake, it distinguishes itself from the Imperial Cities. Indeed, it is in this white city at the foot of the Atlas Mountains that the vibrancy of the Moroccan south blends with the modern city, packed with luxurious seaside resorts. Here, Morocco takes on the air of a Riviera. The 300 days of sun per year certainly have something to do with it! This creates a striking contrast between the dignity of its Berber culture, its resolutely contemporary architecture, and the irresistible call of the seaside lifestyle. For one day in Agadir, come conquer its bay, its heights, and its places of exchange, carrying with you the luminous memory of its Atlantic coast.
Thanks to the new direct flights between Agadir and Montreal with Air Transat, it’s now even easier to experience the charm of this sunny and vibrant Moroccan city!
8:00 AM: What are the best things to do in Agadir? Surf lessons!
The morning sun is already warming Agadir Bay—the perfect cue to begin your adventure. Agadir is the perfect place for water activities in Morocco, with its gentle waves that are great for beginners and its close proximity to the well-known spot of Taghazout, which is found on the north end.
Go in one of the surf schools on the huge sandy beach of Agadir. Put on your wetsuit, let your instructor teach you the basics, and then go for it–head toward the Atlantic! Feel the energy of the water under the board and savour the pride of catching your first wave, all with the majestic Atlas mountains providing the backdrop. It’s such a refreshing way to start the day, and honestly, it’s one of the best things to do here.
12:00 PM: Lunch at the fishing port
After the effort, comes the reward. A short taxi ride takes you to the vibrant fishing port which borders the Agadir Marina. Here, the air is saturated with salty scents and the cries of seagulls, keeping pace with the bustling local life. For an authentic experience, head directly to the unpretentious stalls and eateries next to the pier.
Select your fresh catch of the day—perhaps sole, grouper, or a platter of pink shrimp—freshly unloaded from the boats. The fishmonger will grill it before your eyes, serving it simply with vegetables, crusty Moroccan bread, and a piquant charmoula sauce. Between bites, observe the frenzy of the trawlers unloading their marine treasures.
2:00 PM: See Kasbah Agadir Oufella
Now is the time to explore one of the few historical sites that survived the disaster of 1960. Begin your afternoon by ascending to the famous Agadir Kasbah, which is located on Oufella Hill to the northwest of the city centre. Dating from 1541 and later restored at the end of the 18^(th) century, the fortress was commissioned by King Mohammed Ech-Cheikh. Its primary role was strategic: to protect the site against external threats, particularly from Portugal. The kasbah once sheltered up to 300 people within its walls.
Pro tip: Save your energy! Climbing on foot is unduly difficult. The easiest way to get up there is the Agadir cable car for a spectacular, effortless ride, or a taxi straight to the top. You can always hike down afterward!
Although the original ramparts have been largely destroyed, the view from this site is incomparable. From here, you can see the whole area, its crescent-shaped sandy beach, the port and the vast ocean beyond. This is an excellent place from which to understand the geography of this Moroccan city.
4:30 PM: Visit the unique Agadir médina
Leave the hill to discover another facet of Agadir’s identity. Take a taxi to the Agadir Medina, a captivating architectural reconstruction imagined by Italian artist Coco Polizzi.
Every alleyway and gate is a work of art in its own right, honouring Morocco’s traditional architecture and artisanal heritage. Push open the doors of the craftsmen’s workshops. Admire intricate mosaics, delicate wood carvings, and finely crafted leather goods. Enjoy it—You’re stepping into the heart of a project devoted to preserving the Moroccan soul. Take a moment to sit in the shade of an arcade and sip a refreshing glass of mint tea, while admiring the stunning grounds.
6:00 PM: (Free and fun) sunset on the Corniche
As the day draws to a close, the atmosphere in Agadir begins to shift. Without a doubt, late afternoon is the perfect time for a stroll along the seafront promenade! Head to Agadir Bay to make the most of it.
Temperatures become milder, the sky glows with warm hues, and the palm trees lining the avenue sway gently to the rhythm of the ocean breeze. The promenade is beautifully designed, its curves seeming to mirror the ebb and flow of the waves just a few metres away.
Whether you choose a terrace or dig your toes into the sand, the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset is yours to find. The city offers a sweeping 180-degree view of the western horizon, making it an ideal place to watch the sky ignite in shades of orange and pink. It’s a magical moment, where locals and travellers come together to enjoy the spectacle. In the distance, the silhouette of Agadir’s kasbah transforms into a glowing beacon once night falls.
8:30 PM: Traditional dinner and overnight stay at Riad Villa Blanche
Leave behind the seaside vibe of Agadir’s coast and step into the cozy warmth of a riad. Your destination for the night? Riad Ville Blanche, tucked away at the southern edge of the city, offering a surprisingly refined and upscale side of Agadir.
This luxury accommodation, with its intimate atmosphere (just 28 rooms), seamlessly blends traditional Moroccan architecture with contemporary comforts and impeccable service. It’s especially cherished for its serene spa, featuring a classic hammam steam room and a heated pool — a true haven of tranquility and well-being. While you’re here, why not treat yourself to a soothing argan oil massage?
Its restaurant alone is worth the detour—a deep dive into Morocco’s ancestral gastronomy. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the richness of local flavours, both from the land and the sea. Without a doubt, it ranks among the finest dining experiences in the region.
In the morning, opt for breakfast on the terrace, surrounded by a fragrant and beautifully landscaped garden.
9:00 AM: Souk El Had
After a tranquil night in your riad, your final activity before heading out to explore the wider region is one of the most immersive: Souk El Had. With 6,000 stalls, this is one of Morocco’s largest covered markets, offering a thrilling whirlwind of smells, sounds, and colors. Be sure to stock up on argan oil; the argan tree is endemic to Morocco, and local Amazigh women’s cooperatives in the region yield generous harvests.
For good deals, remember to negotiate (reasonably, of course). This is a local custom, and this friendly exchange is a vital part of the transaction!
Stroll through the aisles, which are efficiently organized by trade: browse the leather stalls, visit the herbalists, admire the wood artisans, and explore the produce vendors. You will leave with not only souvenirs and spices but, above all, the vibrant memory of a city that, despite its painful past, has successfully reinvented itself with flair.
