Things to Do in Agadir
I’ve always felt curious about the city of Agadir. Why? Honestly, I don’t really know, but as far back as I can remember, I’ve wanted to discover this destination.
Last year, I met a Moroccan woman with whom I connected instantly, and in less than a day, she became a friend.
So this autumn, when I organized my third trip to Morocco, I naturally decided to include a short getaway to Agadir. Well, not so short after all, since I ended up staying for a week.
The city is certainly not the most interesting if you’re a lover of culture or history. However, if you’re looking for a beach holiday while still enjoying a lively city, it’s the perfect place.
Visiting Agadir is really about that: combining relaxation with pleasant sightseeing, all while being close to a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and shops. Here are 12 things to do in Agadir or its surrounding area.
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Plan Your Stay in Agadir in Just a Few Seconds!
In a rush to plan your trip? This mini-guide has all the essentials you need!
WHERE TO SLEEP?
- Palm Surf & Spa Hotel Agadir – a conveniently located hotel in the city.
- Robinson Agadir – a luxury accommodation, perfect for couples.
HOW TO GET THERE?
WHAT TO VISIT?
- The beach
- The kasbah riding the cable car
- The main attractions of the city
TABLE OF CONTENTS
12 things to do in Agadir
Useful information for visiting Agadir:
Agadir en quelques mots
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, Agadir is one of Morocco’s most iconic cities.
It stretches along a vast bay with calm waters and enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it a highly popular seaside destination.
The city has over 400,000 inhabitants and is surrounded by unique natural landscapes: vast beaches, golden dunes, lush valleys, and impressive mountains.
The modern city was largely rebuilt after the 1960 earthquake, but its kasbah, perched on a hill, still reflects its ancestral past.
Nicknamed “the Pearl of Souss,” Agadir is the perfect destination for travelers seeking relaxation, culture, and unforgettable Atlantic landscapes.
12 Things to do in Agadir
Beyond relaxing on the beach, Agadir offers numerous activities for all types of travelers.
Moreover, if you want to explore the surroundings of the city and get a deeper glimpse into Moroccan life, you can enjoy a wide range of activities. I’ve listed several of them below.
1. Explore the Kasbah
Agadir Kasbah was built in the 16th century on a hill and originally served as a fortification to protect the city.
Centuries later, the devastating 1960 earthquake almost completely destroyed it. Since then, it has been reconstructed, and tourists can visit for a small fee.
From here, the panoramic view of the city and Agadir Bay is exceptional. Like me, you’ll be surprised at how far Agadir stretches in all directions.
You can reach the kasbah by car or cable car. I don’t particularly recommend walking, as it’s quite far from the city and the climb is steep!
Sunrise and sunset are the best times to admire Agadir, its port, and its vast beach under magical light.
📌 Oufella
📆 Open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in summer, and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. during Ramadan
💱 90 dirhams for adults over 18, 65 dirhams for ages 7–17, free for children under 7. National visitors pay a different rate.
2. Ride the cable car
The cable car allows you to reach the kasbah effortlessly!
The ride is smooth and lets you enjoy the view, with Agadir Bay on one side and the Atlas Mountains on the other.
The attraction was inaugurated in 2022, so you benefit from a very modern and well-organized facility. It also seems like an ideal activity to do with children.
Honestly, I somewhat regretted taking this ride, as for just 5 minutes up and 5 minutes down, it’s quite expensive.
However, if you’ve never been on a cable car and want to try the experience, this is the perfect opportunity.
Note that at night, the view from above takes on a whole new dimension, as the city lights up with thousands of lights. It’s a great moment to ride in a modern cabin illuminated with LED lights and enjoy the spectacle.
📌 Rue Echouada
📆 Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
💱 130 dirhams round trip, 100 for children under 140 cm, free for children under 80 cm. Residents pay a different rate.
👉 Want to make sure you have your ticket?
This tour includes visits to several interesting spots, and a ticket for the cable car ride is included.
3. Spend time on the beach
For me, the main attraction of a stay in Agadir is clearly its vast sandy beach, stretching about 9 km.
You can sit facing the ocean, enjoy water sports, chat with friends, or stroll along the seaside promenade… the beach is yours to enjoy however you like!
At the end of the day, the promenade comes alive with numerous restaurants and food stalls, giving you a perfect reason to take a walk and really soak up the holiday atmosphere.
4. Dive into Souk El Had
The largest market in the region hides over 3,000 stalls, offering a true immersion into local daily life. You can buy fruits, spices, and handmade crafts.
Souk El Had is partially covered, making it a great activity if it rains during your stay. I recommend taking the guided visit below, which allows you to explore the market with a guide—perfect if you’re worried about being approached too much on your own!
📌 Rue 2 Mars
📆 Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
5. Explore the art museum
I really enjoyed this museum, which showcases the work of dozens of Moroccan and international artists. It was inaugurated very recently, and the building was clearly designed to offer a truly pleasant visitor experience.
The permanent exhibition highlights around 150 works, often very colorful and modern. You’ll also find jewelry, rugs, pottery, and ceramics. In short, even if you’re not a huge art fan, I definitely recommend visiting.
📌 Rue Hassan II, Passage Aït Souss
📆 Wednesday to Monday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
💱 40 dirhams
6. Discover the Agadir museum of memory
The 1960 earthquake deeply marked the city, and this museum truly helps you better understand the disaster and the reconstruction that followed.
Here, photographs, documents, and historical objects trace the history of Agadir, especially this key moment.
📌 Avenue du Général Kettani
📆 Monday to Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
💱 Free admission
7. Marvel at the Medina Polizzi
In Agadir, there isn’t a medina as we know it in cities like Marrakech or Fez. Medina Polizzi is an artisanal reconstruction of a traditional old city, distinguished by its unique architectural style.
It was designed and built by artist Coco Polizzi, who wanted to pay tribute to Moroccan heritage after the 1960 earthquake.
📌 Hay Aghroud
📆 Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
💱 40 dirhams for adults, 20 dirhams for children aged 4 to 12
8. Visit the Vallée du Paradis
This natural oasis is nestled in the Atlas Mountains, about 45 minutes from Agadir. You can enjoy turquoise natural pools surrounded by beautiful, lush landscapes.
It’s the perfect excursion for travelers who enjoy hiking and also want to cool off and relax far from the city.
👉 Visit the valley hassle-free!
After pickup from your hotel, you’ll head toward Paradise Valley. Following a quick hike, it’s time to relax in a stunning natural setting.
9. Take a surf lesson in Taghazout
The villages north of Agadir are known for being perfect surf spots for both beginners and experienced surfers. Taghazout is one of the destinations that attracts the most board sports enthusiasts.
This charming and peaceful village can be visited in just a few hours, leaving you plenty of time to take a surf lesson.
Local surf schools offer classes for all levels and also rent equipment. Beginners can start at any time of year, but from November to March, the swell is generally stronger.
You can also sign up for this surf lesson with transportation included from Agadir.
10. Escape to Essaouira
Essaouira is a city that perfectly combines seaside relaxation with history, hidden within the labyrinth of its medina. Its remarkably well-preserved ramparts give it a unique charm and beauty.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the former Portuguese city also captivates visitors with its mosque and its port, where you can enjoy fresh fish.
You can choose to get there by car or by bus, but I recommend opting for a day trip for greater peace of mind.
11. See goats in the trees
One of the images that, to me, symbolizes Morocco is goats perched in argan trees—and it turns out the Agadir region is full of these unique trees.
You can witness this remarkable sight in the areas surrounding the city. As tourists, it can be tricky to know where to go, so I recommend taking an organized tour. A truly original experience!
12. Get away to Taroudant
The former capital of the Saadian state, Taroudant is located about 80 km from Agadir. Surrounded by 16th-century walls, it offers a chance to explore a medina largely untouched by mass tourism.
Not far away, the Tiout Oasis can be explored on foot or on a donkey, offering stunning views of the Anti-Atlas mountains nestled among the palm trees. I recommend joining a tour to visit Taroudant.
How to get to Agadir?
From some cities in France, you can take a direct flight to Agadir. Otherwise, you’ll need to land in Marrakech.
From the famous city, you can take a bus or train to Agadir. I travel regularly with CTM, which I highly recommend. You can check the bus schedules here.
If you’re traveling by your own car or decide to rent one, know that the drive takes about 3 hours if traffic is light. Consider using Discover Cars, which makes car rentals hassle-free.
How to get around Agadir ?
You can easily get around Agadir on foot to reach the main tourist attractions. If you’re staying farther away, it’s perfectly possible to use public buses. The only downside is that they are often quite crowded, and you’ll be dependent on their schedules.
I recommend using InDrive, which offers car and motorbike rides, but be aware that the app is illegal in Morocco, so there is a risk in case of a police check. Of course, you can also use taxis for all your journeys.
Where to stay in Agadir ?
I stayed with an acquaintance far from the tourist areas, which made my trip a bit more complicated as a visitor, though I loved being immersed in local daily life.
During long motorcycle rides to reach the beach or museums, I had time to reflect on how important it is to stay close to the main attractions to fully enjoy Agadir, especially if you only have a few days.
I therefore recommend the Marina, Talborjt, and Founty neighborhoods.
Marina is a modern area that gives you easy access to the beach. Here are my accommodation picks:
- Agadir Marina vue piscine ($$): This 2-bedroom apartment overlooks the building’s pool and has a balcony to enjoy the sun. Perfect for families and groups of friends.
- Stay Here Beachfront Escape ($$$): A 2-bedroom apartment, ideal for families and groups. Offers views of the city and the sea, just 500 meters from the beach.
Talborjt is a more local area but still close to several attractions and not far from the beach:
- Charmant studio ($$): A simple studio, perfect for couples wanting more freedom than a hotel, while staying in a strategic location.
- Palm Surf & Spa Hotel Agadir ($$): Beautifully decorated, with accommodations featuring terraces overlooking the city. Includes a cozy lounge area.
If you like residential neighborhoods, Founty—just a few minutes by taxi from the beaches and city center—is an excellent choice:
- Ocean Atlantic View ($$): Offers studios and apartments for those seeking more independence. Guests also have access to an outdoor pool, sauna, hammam, and beauty center.
- ROBINSON AGADIR ($$$): Perfect for couples looking for a luxury stay. All rooms feature a balcony or terrace with views of the Atlas Mountains.
- Sonaba Luxury Villa ($$$$$): The best option for very large families or groups of friends. This villa with garden, private pool, and balcony accommodates up to 8 people.
ALSO READ: The Best Hotels in Marrakech
What is the best time to visit?
Even though the city enjoys a pleasant climate all year round, the period from March to June offers especially comfortable temperatures. In September and October, you can also enjoy beautiful sunny days.
I recommend avoiding July and August, as these months see a significant influx of travelers.
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How many days to stay?
To enjoy the beach while also discovering the city’s main attractions, I recommend spending 3 days in Agadir.
If you’d like to explore the surrounding areas, plan for 5–7 days. And if you’re really in a relaxation mood, why not spend 10 days in the destination—plenty of time to fully enjoy the beach and, for example, learn how to surf.
Traveling responsibly in Agadir
Visiting Agadir responsibly means, among other things, helping to preserve marine ecosystems, the coastline, and local life.
An increase in tourism in this seaside resort can lead to higher levels of pollution, disruption of marine wildlife, and even gentrification of coastal areas and nearby villages, putting local communities at risk.
So that your visit leaves no negative impact on Agadir, here are a few actions you can take:
- pick up all your trash and leave no waste behind;
- avoid single-use plastics;
- choose local surf schools that are committed to responsible practices;
- use reef-safe sunscreen, free from harmful substances;
- support the local economy by staying with locals and eating at locally owned restaurants.
Visiting Agadir inevitably means spending time on the beach — but not only that! I hope this article will help you plan your next getaway to this seaside destination.
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