Agadir was devastated by a huge earthquake in 1960, but has managed to recover to such an extent that it is now widely considered to be Morocco's main beach resort.

Although it has lost some of its character after being rebuilt into grids of residential suburbs with wide boulevards, this cannot detract from its attractiveness as a package holiday destination or for last minute holidays.

Traditions and culture in Agadir

Agadir has always been closely associated with the fishing industry after its humble beginnings as a fishing village in the 16th century.

After being established by the Portuguese, it soon came under Wattasid control and in 1572 a stronghold, known as the Kasbah, was built on the hill which overlooks the bay.

The Agadir Crisis of 1911 is also a major event in the city's history, when a feud between Germany and France allowed the latter to occupy large sections of Morocco.

The Kasbah was destroyed by the earthquake, which practically buried the entire city and reportedly killed around 15,000 people, but its ruins can still be seen today.

Agadir has since re-established itself as an important fishing and commercial port and is also the first sardine port in the world, exporting cobalt, manganese, zinc and citrus.

Things to do in Agadir

It is fair to say that Agadir lacks some of the typical bustling atmosphere of other Moroccan cities, but there is still plenty to take in during a short break in the city for anyone looking to find flights online.

The earthquake museum in the southwest corner of the Jardim de Olhao garden is certainly worth a visit, as it gives an excellent photographic insight into old Agadir.

A trip to the remains of the Kasbah is also a humbling experience, offering a graphic example of the devastation caused by the earthquake.

The grassy area seen below when the summit is reached is the Ancient Talborjt, which covers the remains of the city's medina and serves as a mass grave for all those who lost their lives in 1960.

After visiting the Kasbah (taking a taxi up would be well advised as it is a long, hot walk), dropping in at the nearby port provides a taste of vintage Moroccan atmosphere, with stalls of fish-sellers and locals haggling for the best deals.

In terms of the nightlife, there are a few bars and discos dotted around which are fairly lively but be warned that many of them do not stay open that late.

The buzzing Souq al-Had is also worth checking out to buy souvenirs for the folks back home, but be prepared to haggle over prices to avoid expensive disappointment.

Weather in Agadir

Agadir generally experiences a moderate, Mediterranean-style climate throughout the year, with an average annual temperature of 19C.

Over the course of the summer, the sun shines for around ten hours per day with clouds a rare occurrence, while temperatures are generally between 20C and 23C but can easily reach highs of 28C - so now would be a great time to book flights.

Destination checklist for Agadir

Agadir has a population of around 678,596.

The city is on BST time.

The official currency is the dirham.

Arabic is the official language spoken, although French is also widely used.

Agadir's international dialling code is +212.