Agadir, Morocco: 10 Places to Explore and 5 to Avoid
Agadir, Morocco is a vibrant city situated along the Atlantic coast. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and world-class resorts. From the bustling markets in the old town to the stunning palaces of the modern city, there are plenty of wonderful places to explore in Agadir. Here are 10 places to check out when visiting Agadir and 5 places to avoid.
1. Agadir Beach
Agadir Beach is one of the most popular attractions in the city. The beach is lined with palm trees and has crystal blue waters that make it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars located along the beach, making it a great place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
2. Souk El Had
Souk El Had is a bustling market located in the heart of Agadir. It is one of the largest markets in Morocco and is filled with colorful stalls selling everything from traditional Moroccan food to handmade crafts. It is a great place to pick up souvenirs or simply wander around and soak up the atmosphere.
3. Vallee des Oiseaux
Vallee des Oiseaux is a nature reserve located just outside of Agadir. The reserve is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. It is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring the lush vegetation and spotting different species of birds.
4. La Medina d’Agadir
La Medina d’Agadir is the old town of Agadir and is a great place to explore the city’s history and culture. The streets are lined with traditional buildings and there are several mosques and palaces to visit. It is also home to several cafes and restaurants where you can sample some of the local cuisine.
5. La Plage Blanche
La Plage Blanche is a stunning white sand beach located just outside of Agadir. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is also a great spot for snorkeling and other water activities.
6. Parc Natural Souss-Massa
Parc Natural Souss-Massa is a national park located just outside of Agadir. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and is a great place to explore the local flora and fauna. There are also several hiking trails that you can explore and some stunning views of the Atlantic coast.
7. Agadir Marina
Agadir Marina is a modern marina located in the heart of the city. It is a great place to stroll around and admire the luxury yachts and boats on display. There are also several seafood restaurants located in the marina where you can sample some of the local cuisine.
8. Kasbah d’Agadir
Kasbah d’Agadir is an ancient fortress located in the old town of Agadir. It was originally built in the 16th century and is now open to visitors. Inside the fortress, you can explore the ruins and learn about the city’s history.
9. Les Jardins de Olhao
Les Jardins de Olhao is a beautiful garden located in the heart of Agadir. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the gardens. There are also several sculptures and fountains scattered around the gardens that make it a great place to take photos.
10. Royal Palace of Agadir
The Royal Palace of Agadir is a stunning palace located in the center of the city. It was originally built in the 19th century and is now open to visitors. Inside the palace, you can explore the ornate rooms and learn about the city’s royal history.
5 Places to Avoid
1. La Place de l’Independance
La Place de l’Independance is a bustling square located in the center of Agadir. While it is a great place to people-watch, it can be quite dangerous at night due to the large crowds and pickpockets. It is best to avoid this area after dark.
2. Street Markets
Agadir is home to several street markets, but they can be quite dangerous due to the large crowds and pickpockets. It is best to avoid these markets if possible and stick to the larger markets such as Souk El Had.
3. La Corniche
La Corniche is a popular street located along the waterfront. Unfortunately, it is also home to several thugs and drug dealers, so it is best to avoid this area after dark.
4. Agadir Airport
Agadir Airport is located just outside of the city and can be quite chaotic. The airport is known for its long security lines and frequent flight delays, so it is best to avoid this area if possible.
5. La Ville Nouvelle
La Ville Nouvelle is a modern district located in the center of Agadir. While it is a great place to explore the city’s modern architecture, it can be quite dangerous at night due to the large crowds and pickpockets. It is best to avoid this area after dark.