Agadir may not be Morocco’s most beautiful city, nor its most spiritual, and it may not have the most impressive architecture. Nevertheless, it is a perfect destination for enjoying a seaside break with lots of thrills and it offers a good base from which to explore the country. If you’re travelling as a couple and you’re looking for romantic things to do in Agadir, this is the article for you — because we’re going to tell you all about the activities that will bring you memories to treasure. As this city offers such a varied range of experiences, it’s up to you to pick out the activities that best suit you and your partner.
As we’ve already said, Agadir is not Morocco’s most beautiful city in architectural terms, but it does have points of interest, such as its mosques, the Kasbah, and the New Medina. Nor can Agadir match the elegance of Casablanca’s beach clubs, but it has a fascinating Marina and beaches that stretch for kilometres where you can enjoy water sports. The city’s souks cannot compete with those of Fez or Marrakesh, but the stalls are well stocked, and you can find everything you need. What is certain is that if you’re looking to take a break in a medium-sized city, where you can get around easily and with good services for tourists… you’ve found it. Read on to find the most romantic suggestions for things to do in Agadir.
- Culture: the Kasbah and mosques
- Relax on the beach
- Go surfing together
- Agadir Marina
- The New Medina
- Shopping in the Souk
- A romantic dinner
- Where to stay in Agadir
Culture: the Kasbah and mosques
We cannot deny our love of culture and history, so we are recommending you start with a romantic cultural activity. A visit to the Kasbah, perched on a hill from which you can see a beautiful view of the port, is a good starting point, as it forms part of Agadir’s history. This fortress, or Kasbah, was built during the sixteenth century to protect the city, and its primary function can still be detected in the solid stretches of stone that remain and in the great entrance that welcomes you. Sunsets seen from here are a truly memorable sight. Don’t forget to set aside time to visit the city’s two most important mosques: the Mohamed V Mosque and the Loubnane Mosque.
Relax on the beach
If you have chosen this particular destination because you love the beach, you have chosen well because in spite of the beach’s fame and although it attracts hordes of bathers, it is so extensive that you can always find a spot just for yourselves. If you’re looking for a little more privacy on your romantic trip to Agadir, ask about the coves; they are a little more rocky, but you’ll scarcely see a soul.
Go surfing together
The beaches are a great attraction in Agadir, but water sports are not far behind, as these coasts are battered by the Atlantic Ocean, creating good waves for surfing and kitesurfing. You only have to venture a little out of the bay to find good spots where you can enjoy your favourite sport. Agadir has been an established surfing destination since the 1970s, and attracts surfers from all over the world. So an international vibe is guaranteed. Bear in mind too, the neighbouring town of Taghazout, another place that no surfing enthusiast will want to miss.
Agadir Marina
As a seafaring city, Agadir boasts a large marina and a fishing port. The marina, with over 300 berths and luxury yachts, offers glamour, exclusive shops and good restaurants. At the fishing port, you can watch the arrival of boats loaded with fish — you can also attend a fish auction and then eat fresh chargrilled sardines at one of the nearby beach bars. It’s up to you to choose which suggestion appeals most to your romantic side.
The New Medina
Strolling hand-in-hand around Agadir’s New Medina is another activity that could merit a place on your itinerary. Although this districts is less authentic than in other Moroccan cities (as the city was devastated by an earthquake in 1960), it does invite you to enjoy the modern city and the reconstructed buildings. Also known at the Polizzi Medina (after the architect responsible for its remodelling), the Medina is a good place to have lunch or go shopping for craft items. Here you will find scores of Instagrammable spots.
Shopping in the Souk
If shopping has a place in your plans for a romantic break in Agadir, you are in for a real treat. Here you will find a well-stocked souk made up of businesses selling everything from food to accessories and craft items. Spices, mint tea, and argan oil are all a safe bet in Morocco. But don’t forget that you will be expected to haggle — it is the custom here. Offer half of the asking price, and continue to bargain, according to your instincts and depending on how interested you are in the item for sale.
A romantic dinner
In Agadir, you will find restaurants serving traditional Moroccan food and others which also offer international dishes. A highly recommended restaurant that may appeal to you is Le Jardin d’Eau, which specialises in fish, seafood and French cuisine. The restaurant is near the beach, and offers live music.
Or you could opt for the Pure Passion Restaurant, which affords lovely views of the Marina. Here too, the menu offers fish, seafood, and beautifully presented French cooking. It is not cheap, but it is certainly worth it to enjoy a romantic dinner in this superb setting.
Where to stay in Agadir
Only ten minutes from the centre of Agadir is the Allegro Agadir hotel, a four-star establishment that is perfect for a romantic stay in this Moroccan city. Barely half-an-hour from Agadir-Al Massira airport, this hotel is surrounded by greenery and is a stone’s throw from the beach. Refurbished in 2020, its 321 colourful guest rooms are perfect for that romantic break. And with its proximity to the sea, it is also ideal for surfing enthusiasts.
The hotel has a huge swimming pool, a garden, a buffet-style restaurant and two bars for when you fancy a snack. It also offers excellent value for money. You won’t want to leave.
