tangiers travel

© Eros Rigoli/Shutterstock

Guarding the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier has for centuries been Europes's gateway to Africa. Its blend of cultures and influences is unique in Morocco – for much of its history it wasn't even governed by Morocco.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Tangier. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures

This recently refurbished museum is housed in the former sultan's palace of Dar El Makhzen. The focus is on the history of the area from prehistoric times…

Tangier American Legation Museum

This museum, in an elegant five-storey mansion, is a must-see: Morocco was the first country to recognise the United States by opening its ports to the…

Grand Socco

The Grand Socco is the romantic entrance to the medina, a large, sloping, palm-ringed plaza with a central fountain that stands before the keyhole gate,…

The medina, the top attraction of Tangier, is a labyrinth of alleyways both commercial and residential. It's contained by the walls of a 15th-century…

Petit Socco

This was once the most notorious crossroads of Tangier, the site of drug deals and all forms of prostitution. Today the facades are freshly painted,…

St Andrew’s Church

St Andrew's Church is one of the more charming oddities of Tangier. Completed in 1894 on land granted by Sultan Hassan, the interior of this Anglican…

Nahon Synagogue

Tangier once had 17 synagogues and 27,000 Jewish residents. That number has dwindled and the only synagogue open to the public is Nahon – but it's a…

Musée de la Fondation Lorin

This eclectic museum is housed in a former synagogue. Here you will find an open 2-storey room with an engaging collection of B&W photographs of 19th- and…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Morocco

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Tangier

Dec 4, 2019 • 6 min read

Tangier deftly balances a mix of cultures not found elsewhere in the country, and makes a perfect place for a gentle immersion into the madness of Morocco.

Feb 25, 2019 • 7 min read

Jan 25, 2019 • 5 min read

Mar 15, 2018 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Tangier

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Tangier with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

20 Top Things to Do in Tangier Morocco – The Complete City Guide

The Complete City Guide to Tangier Morocco. Is Tangier worth visiting? What can you see and do in Tangier? In this in-depth city guide, you’ll find an overview of the most interesting places to visit in Tangier, recommendations about where to stay and where to eat and information about how to get around the city. 

Ever since I first came to Tangier Morocco, this city has never stopped fascinating me. I lived there for 6 months and it’s still to this day one of my favorite cities in the world.

It has everything I ever wanted from a city: a sense of exotic mystery, the most interesting history, beautiful sights, and unspoiled beaches.

On top of that, Tangier is an uncontrolled mix of North Africa, Spain, Portugal and France, the ideal melting pot for my culture hungry mind.

Each day ferries cross the Strait of Gibraltar to this city from Europe, making it one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Africa.

How to take the ferry between Tarifa (Spain) and Tangier.

Together with my friend, blogger, and dancer, Ruby Josephine , who lived for 5 years in this North Moroccan city, we created the Ultimate City Guide to Tangier.

In this guide, you’ll read about the best places to visit and things to do in the city, the best restaurants of Tangier, the best hostels and riads, how to get around, etc.

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Morocco Travel essentials and resources

• Morocco Travel Guide: 19 things you should know before you go
• Where to go: The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco
• Plan your trip: 3 itineraries to discover the best of Morocco
• Is Morocco safe: 18 useful tips to stay safe while traveling in Morocco
• Tours and experiences: Book a customized tour
• Where to stay : Find a room in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or desert camp
• Travel Insurance: Find the best travel insurance for Morocco
• Getting around : Rent a car in Morocco or travel by bus or train

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Things to do see and do in Tangier Morocco

You can easily spend a few days in Tangier without getting bored. There are a lot of cultural, historical and colorful sites to visit. 

Here’s an overview of things to do and places to visit in the city. You can easily tackle all the places in one day. 

1. Cafe Hafa

Cafe Hafa is practically an institution of historical Tangier and is a must-see for anyone passing through.

It has existed since 1921, as it so proudly proclaims at its entrance, and resides on a cliffside with a stunning panorama of the Mediterranean sea.

This outdoor cafe is almost always packed in the afternoons with locals and tourists playing music, cards, and sprawling out across the tables. If you prefer to go while it is quieter, the mornings are the way to go.

Either way, it is always the perfect place to have a traditional sugary sweet Moroccan mint tea and relax as you enjoy one of the best views in the city. Being one of the cheapest teas in town, a full glass costs only 7-10 dirham.

While it is not a restaurant, you can order a steaming bowl of bissara, a Moroccan soup made of fava beans and split peas topped with olive oil and cumin.

For an afternoon snack, my friends and I often buy pastries at bakeries along the way and bring them to eat with our tea.

There are also old men wandering around the cafe selling salted almonds and peanuts for a couple of dirhams a handful.

The cafe is located in the heart of Merchan, a more residential area on a hill just above the Kasbah, at the end of Rue Hafa.

To get there you can take a petit taxi and tell them simply that you would like to go to Cafe Hafa- everyone in town knows it.

You can also walk, depending on where you are coming from. It’s a lovely stroll through a calm neighborhood but be warned that it is mostly uphill.

Morocco T r a v e l G u i d e : 19 useful things to know before traveling to Morocco

2. Phoenician tombs

The Phoenician tombs are located between Cafe Hafa and the top entrance to the Old Kasbah .

It’s true that these tomb structures are very often filled with water and litter, but they are still interesting and of great historic value.

The top of the cliff where the tombs are located offers fantastic views over the city and the harbor.

This is a place where the locals go to relax so if you have time, go there at sunset, take some drinks and snacks and sit down for a while.

On a sunny day, you can see Tarifa in Spain.

3. Get lost in the Old Kasbah

Getting lost in the old city is an absolute must when visiting Tangier! What is so interesting about the old medina is the miles and miles of tiny, narrow, endless paths in between the buildings where one can get lost in no time.

Wandering the narrow streets of the medina used to be my favorite pastime when I was living in Tangier and I would absolutely suggest it if you want to get a real feel of the city.

It can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming but it’s part of the adventure.

Walking randomly in any old town is always an enjoyable experience. I walked in the medina of Tangier almost on a daily basis while I was living there. It’s clean and there is practically no harassment from sellers as in other Moroccan cities, like Marrakesh.

Morocco Photography Tips – How to take portraits of the Moroccan people

It’s located right on one side of the Grand Socco and about 3 km from the train station. It’s also the place where most of the hostels and riads are located.

4. Kasbah Museum

When I, Ruby,  first saw the Kasbah Museum, it was not as a curious tourist, but as a choreographer holding rehearsals in the open building behind the museum’s gardens.

It wasn’t until I had lived there almost a year that a took a more traditional walk around this beautiful building- I had been missing out.

While, at first, I knew at least that the gardens are lovely, I can now wholeheartedly recommend the entire place as a wonderful site to pay a visit.

This museum was once known as “Dar el Makhzen,” which translates roughly to “The Sultan’s Palace,” and was the residence of Portuguese governors between 1471 and 1661.

It is now hosting a collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts, most of which come from the north of Morocco.

It is located in the Kasbah and can be reached easily by walking from anywhere in the city center or by petit taxi. The entrance fee is 20 dirhams per person and is open from 10am-6pm every day except Tuesdays.

5. Petit Socco

Right in between the hike from the Grand Socco to the port, you will come across a smaller square, lined with a few cafes and several shops and galleries.

The Petit Socco is a popular stop for a coffee at Cafe Tingis , an old beatnik-era institution, or the slightly more modern Cafe Central.

It snakes off into several small, winding streets of the old medina where you can find more hidden shops and markets to explore.

6. American Legation

The American Legation is a museum, cultural center, and research library that holds historical and artistic artifacts and is home to a rich history of diplomatic relations between the United States and Morocco.

It was, in fact, the very first American public property outside of the US and the renovated building has kept up its colonial-era historic feel. It is located in the old medina at 8 Rue d’Amerique and costs 20 dirhams to enter .

Also, fun fact: Ruby’s husband (a Moroccan man she met here in Tangier) proposed to her in the gardens of the American Legation, creating yet another very small piece of multi-cultural history that happened in that location. You can read a tiny bit about their Moroccan wedding here .

7. The Grand Socco & Cinema Rif

The Grand Socco goes by a few different names- Souk Ibarra, if you’re a local, but it is officially called Place du Grand 9 Avril 1947 after a famous speech given by King Mohammed V in support of Moroccan independence on, of course, April 9, 1947.

Whatever you call it, this large open plaza in Tangier will most likely be a central marking point for anyone visiting.

It is home to a large market on one side which is a wonderfully chaotic and sensory place to explore and a towering beautiful mosque just across the roundabout.

Bab Fass is the grand archway that leads into the old medina and up to the Kasbah and on the other side you can have tea and people watch from the cafe at Cinema Rif .

Cinema Rif is an old movie theatre where you can watch both alternative and mainstream films. It also has a cafe that is very popular among the young locals and artists of Tangier.

It’s definitely worth going there to have a coffee or a glass of wine and enjoy the retro- ambiance of this artsy building. 

While the Grand Socco is always full of life and activity, if you venture out at night, you will find large crowds full of families taking an evening walk and loud street vendors selling everything from clothes to cotton candy to snail soup (a specialty in Tangier- I dare you to try it).

This is an easy point to reach by taxi or on foot from anywhere in the city.

8. Markets in Tangier – Grand Socco Market & Berber Farmer Market

Like any other city in Morocco, Tangier also has a few colorful souks  (markets) that are a pleasure for the eye and nose to visit.

 The biggest souk is the indoor Grand Socco Market, located at the Grand Socco (see above), where you can daily buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, bread, olives, herbs, etc.

Every Sunday and Thursday, an outdoor farmer market is held on the streets near St. Andrew’s Church (see section below).

The Berbers from nearby villages come to Tangier to sell their products, mainly fresh fruits, and vegetables from their farms.

It’s a colorful and chaotic experience to walk through these streets filled with all the fruits and veggies you can get in Morocco!

On the square opposite St. Andrew’s Church you can also buy Tajines, antiques, clothes and random old trinkets. 

12 common scams in Morocco and how to avoid them

9. St. Andrew’s Church

Visiting an Anglican church in Tangier, Morocco may sound a bit out-of-the-ordinary, but St. Andrew’s is a beautiful, historic sort of sanctuary in the middle of the bustling city.

 It was consecrated in 1905 and the overgrown, flourishing gardens in the churchyard are home to the grave sites of many historical figures.

The chapel was also once painted by the famous French artist Henri Matisse during his stay in the city in 1912.

You can visit St. Andrew’s for free and often the guard will give you a tour of the grounds and chapel.

Being very close to the Grand Socco, it is an easy walk from the old medina and is located, appropriately enough, on Rue d’Angleterre (the English Road).

10.Teatro Cervantes

My dream is that someday this theater is fully renovated, keeping its beautiful old art deco style and that I can create a dance performance for its stage.

In the meantime, however, I’ll have to make do with wistfully visiting the crumbling facade.

The Gran Teatro Cervantes was built in 1913 by the Spanish and was considered at one point one of the most prestigious theaters in North Africa.

Now, however, restoration is on constant hold due to ongoing disputes between city officials and the Spanish government. For this reason, the interior is closed to the public, but the exterior is worth visiting for a look and a photo.

You can always try and ask permission to enter the theater at the Spanish Consulate in Tangier. However, it might take at least one week and some money before you’ll know if you’re allowed to enter the Gran Teatro Cervantes. 

The theater is located on Rue Anoual, easily reached on foot from anywhere in the city center or by petit taxi.

11. Sour Al Maâgazine

Sour Al Maâgazine, also known as “ Faro Square “, has been for a long time the meeting place of friends and especially lovers in Tangier. Some very beautiful romantic songs have been dedicated to this popular avenue of Tangier.

In the summer, this avenue is always full of people enjoying a breathtaking view of the port and the bay of Tangier. People also come to enjoy the constant light breeze coming from the Mediterranean sea.

It is located on Pasteur Avenue and it’s only a 7-minute walk to get to the Grand Socco and the entrance of the Old Kasbah .

12. Gran Cafe de Paris

Gran Cafe de Paris is one of the oldest cafes in Tangier and is part of Tangier’s bohemian history.

The cafe opened in 1927 and was a place of inspiration for many known artists and writers like Jack Kerouac, William Burrough, Paul Bowles and Tennessee Williams – just to name a few –  to gather here, have a coffee, smoke a cigarette and discuss life and literature. 

Part of the movie  The Bourne Ultimatum  was filmed in and around Tangier and this cafe has also a moment of fame in the movie. 

The interior of the cafe has a peculiar atmosphere. Strange how inspiring the old leather of the chairs, the dark paneled walls, the stale smell of cheap tobacco and the rustling sound of newspapers can be.

The waiters are dressed in red jackets and it gives you a feeling of an old private ‘Gentlemen’s Club’ (but women are allowed here as well).

The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco

The Best Tangier City Tours

If you prefer a more organized trip to explore Tangier, here are a few fun and interesting city tours you can join.

13. Explore Tangier with the Tanger Ville Hop On Hop Off Bus

Tangier has now official Hop On Hop Off Buses that will bring you to all the different places of interest in one day!

These red double-decker buses run daily from 9 am to 6 pm from April to October and from 9 am to 5 pm from November to March between the historical center of the city to the modern part.

You can hop on and off the bus at the 11 stops as often as you want. Here’s a detailed itinerary of the Tanger Ville Route.

You can board the bus at any of the 11 stops. Tickets can be purchased when you board the bus and cost 130 MAD per person .

These tickets are valid for 48 hours and can also be used for the  Espartel Tour Route Bus   (see Day trips from Tangier below). 

14. Explore Tangier with a local guide

There are also opportunities to explore Tangier with a local guide. During the Tangier City Discovery Tour , a local guide will take you to all the places of interest in and near the city, including the Hercules Caves (see below). Learn more about this tour here .

Visit the best places in Morocco with these 3 Morocco itineraries

Things to do around Tangier – The Best Day Trips

If you have time, you should definitely go on a day trip to  Cap Spartel  and the  Caves of Hercules !

Both places can be visited together in one day and I would recommend making the 5km walk from one site to the other along the beautiful beach called ‘Robinson Plage’. 

15. Cap Spartel

Cap Spartel is a cape located 14 km from Tangier. The cape rises to a height of 326 m and there’s a beautiful lighthouse at the end of the cape.

Cap Spartel

What makes this place so special? On a sunny day, you have an amazing view of where the Atlantic Ocean and The Mediterranean Sea meet. 

16. Caves of Hercules

The Caves of Hercules (Les Grottes d’Hercule) are a bit of a symbol for Tangier, with their strange sea entrance, shaped like a map of Africa.

The main caves are part of a massive archaeological cave complex located 14 kilometers west of Tangier.

The caves are part natural and part man-made. The natural part was formed by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean while the man-made part was used by Berber people to cut stone wheels from the walls.

The caves date back to 2500 BC and the name comes from the legend of Hercules as it’s believed he slept in these caves before attempting one of his 12 labors.

A visit to the natural caves to admire the sea entrance shaped like the map of Africa is  free . To visit the man-made caves, you have to pay  5 MAD .

Although this is very cheap, I don’t think it’s really worth it. There isn’t really anything special in the man-made caves, unless you want to take a picture with a monkey or parrot on your shoulder (see  Common Scams in Morocco ).

How to get to the Caves of Hercules and Cap Spartel from Tangier:

It’s very easy to get to the Caves of Hercules and Cap Spartel. Any  Petit Taxi ( the small blue taxis ) in Tangier will take you there.

You might have to bargain for the price as the driver will very likely charge you  100 MAD  but know that a one-way ride to the Caves or the Cap is  50 MAD .

You can also take the blue Hop On Hop Off Bus  that follows the  Espartel Route .  This bus departs from Socco Alto and you can hop on and off the bus at any stop along the route (which include Cap Spartel and the Caves of Hercules).

One ticket costs 140 MAD and you can also use the ticket for the Tangier Ville Route Bus (see City Tours in Tangier ).

You can also join the Tangier City Discovery Tour (see City Tours in Tangier ) which includes a visit to both places.

I recommend you visit the Caves of Hercules first, then walk north along the beach towards Cap Spartel.

It’s only one hour of walking and it’s very enjoyable, especially on a sunny day. Along the way, you’ll come across abandoned holiday houses, caves and cliffs. 

18. Ruins of Cotta

The ruins of Cotta, an ancient Roman settlement founded in the 2nd century, are very close to the caves of Hercules and Cape Spartel .   

The remains of a factory building, a temple, and some baths complex have been unearthed here, and it is believed that the inhabitants of the settlement made a living by producing a type of fish sauce as was the case with the town of Lixus  (see 4. Ruins of Lixus ), one of Morocco’s oldest continuously inhabited sites. 

Unfortunately, you can’t visit these ruins anymore as a rich Arabian sheik (or so the story goes) has bought land around the ruins, thus fencing them and preventing tourists from accessing the area. 

19 . Borj al Kamra

The Al Kamra Tower or the  Borj Al Kamra is one of the oldest historical sites in Asilah . It was built in 1509 when the city was under Portuguese occupation so it’s a perfect example of Portuguese architecture in Morocco.

This tower was built under the orders of the King of Portugal Emmanuel I to serve as a residence for his married daughter to the Portuguese governor of Asilah. He wanted to make a beautiful and huge building to allow his daughter, very attached to his country, to see Portugal from the coast of Morocco.

Construction began in 1505 and it took four years to achieve an architectural marvel that centuries later is among the oldest historical monuments in the city.

Getting to Asilah from Tangier is very easy as the cities are only 50 km from each other. It’s possible to get there by taxi or by train.

Moroccan Railways (ONCF) have a train from Tangier to Asilah every 4 hours. Tickets cost between 19 and 50 Moroccan Dirhams and the journey takes 42 min . It’s also possible to get there with a shared Grand Taxi (the big beige ones) for 45 to 75 Moroccan Dirhams .

You can also go on a guided day-tour from Tangier to Asilah , combined with a visit to Cap Spartel and the Hercules Caves. Learn more about this tour here.

20. Ruins of Lixus

Lixus is the site of an ancient Roman-Berber city located in Larache. Megalithic stones found in the vicinity of Lixus suggest that the site was originally inhabited by sun-worshipping people with knowledge of astronomy and mathematics and then became a Roman city.

Photo source: Wikipedia

The main gate to the ruined city is just off the highway. Only about a quarter of the ancient city has been unearthed from the ground so far.

The ruins that are visible, although badly damaged and a bit overgrown, hint at how big and important this city once was, and it’s totally worth a visit.

There is no entrance fee at the moment but if there is a guardian on duty, he will usually be happy to lead visitors through the site for a small tip.

Larache is located 88 kilometers south of Tangier following highway A1. You can reach this city from Tangier by train , by taxi or by bus .

Top Things to do in Chefchaouen, the Blue City of Morocco

Where to stay in Tangier

Tangier is a city that is worth taking the time to discover, so you will want to stay there at least a night or two. It is a city rich in traditional architecture. One of the best experiences you can have in Morocco is staying in a Riad , typical rich Moroccan houses with indoor courtyards and fountains, designed with zellij (Moroccan tiles).

Tangier also offers a wide choice of hostels for budget travelers who want to save money to explore during the day and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening.

If neither a Riad or a hostel is the right choice for you, the city also has plenty of beautiful mid-range guesthouses .

Best budget hostel to stay in Tangier

• Our top pick in Tangier: Tanja Lucia Hostel

This hostel is a mix between a hostel and an art gallery so you can expect plenty of beautiful paintings hanging on the walls of the lobbies.

The dorms have fewer beds than in other hostels around Tangier (only four beds per rooms) so the rooms are generally much quieter than in other places. 

The staff of this hostel takes cleanliness very seriously and the whole lodging is cleaned every morning. The sheets on the beds are washed and changed every day.

The hostel also provides shampoo and towels to all their guests. The atmosphere of this place was very relaxing and I stayed there for almost two weeks as I was getting internet work done thanks to their excellent wifi. 

Tanja Lucia also has a very big rooftop terrace that overlooks part of the old city. This was my favorite part of the hostel and the perfect place from which to write on a sunny day. 

If you’re looking for comfort and quality, don’t look anywhere else, Tanja Lucia is The best and cheapest hostel in Tangier. 

Click to check out rates and availability for “Tanja Lucia Hostel”

View from the rooftop terrace of the Melting Pot

Best guesthouse to stay in Tangier

If you want the comfort of your own private luxurious room and private bathroom right in the heart of the old Kasbah, I would absolutely recommend a stay at the Dar Nour .

The owners are dear friends of mine and made me feel so welcome in Tangier during my whole stay in their guesthouse.

Having lived themselves as expats in Tangier for years, they know the city very well and can advise you on all the best restaurants in the city and everything you should do while you are there.

They also own the restaurant “Le Salon Bleu” which is located only 5 minutes away.

Each room at the Dar Nour has a completely unique style and atmosphere and includes a private bathroom and shower.

The Dar Nour has a terrace with a view of the beach and a massage room can be used to relax after a long day walking around the old city. The property also has free wifi in every room and in all the common areas.

A traditional breakfast composed of fruits, pancakes, cakes, and cheese is offered every morning. Local specialties are proposed in the property’s dining room and a bar is at your disposal at night.

If you want an awesome stay while in Tangier, Dar Nour is an absolute must!

Click to check out rates and availability for “Dar Nour”

On the rooftop terrace of Dar Nour

Best Riads to stay in Tangier

Tangier is a city that is rich in its architecture and fascinating history. One very special type of Moroccan building that combines both architecture and history is the Riads.

They are typical Moroccan buildings that started appearing during the Idrisid dynasty. they usually have indoor courtyards with gardens and fountains. One notable feature of their construction is that they are designed with zellij (Moroccan tiles).

No stay in Morocco would be complete without at least one night in a Riad. Here are some of the best riads in Tangier.

• Riad Tingis

Riad Tingis, located in the center of Tangier, offers a sun terrace and beautiful views of the sea.

Each room at this riad comes equipped with a flat-screen TV. Some rooms include a seating area where you can relax. Some rooms offer a view of the mountains or the garden. Every room comes equipped with a private bathroom. Extras include bathrobes, slippers and toiletries. Riad Tingis also features free WiFi throughout the property.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Riad Tingis”

Anoth Riad definitely worth checking in Tangier is Dar Nakhla Naciria .

Where to eat in Tangier Morocco

1. restaurant bachir.

This is hands down the best restaurant to get as close to home-cooked Moroccan food as you can possibly find in the city. It’s a local, bustling place with plastic-wrapped tables and giant baskets of bread plopped down in front of you as soon as you are seated.

The food is always fresh and delicious (beware that because of this, sometimes they don’t have everything on the menu), and the waiters, while constantly running around to keep up with the demand, are kind and helpful.

It is also ridiculously cheap, with a bowl of bissara going for only 7 dirhams and a chicken tagine for about 20 or 30. It is where I immediately take all of my friends and family who visit me here.

Make sure you say hi to Bachir himself, the owner, who is always hanging around at the cash register. This place is located on Rue Zyriabe, a busy street close to boulevard Mohammed V, lined with many local spots to grab a bite.

2. Dar Naji

Located off of the beaten tourist track in a more residential part of the city, this restaurant serves delicious local specialties in an Arabic lounge-like environment.

Get ready to chill out on old cushions in low lighting and enjoy a slow-cooked meat tagine, couscous on Fridays, or ask for my absolute favorite, r’fissa- a chicken and bread dish that is pure comfort food.

A meal here is also on the cheaper end, costing between 30-60 dirhams per person. You can walk or take a petit taxi to Dar Naji, located at 11 Rue Ajroum.

3. Le Bistro du Petit Socco

If you want to sit, have a good, hearty and flavorful meal, and people watch for an afternoon, this is the place to do it. Located just on the edge of the Petit Socco, this small but charming bistro offers Moroccan food with a bit of French flair.

I have never been disappointed by a dish here and the owners are always friendly and accommodating. I would say it is in the medium price range in terms of places in Tangier, a main dish going for about 60-80 dirhams.

Moroccan Tajine

Morocco Budget Guide: How much does it cost to travel in Morocco?

Where to buy alcohol in Tangier

Since Ruby lived in Tangier for such a long time, she also found out where to buy alcohol in Tangier Morocco. 

If you’re on the hunt for a bottle of wine or are in need of some drinks to take to a friend’s house, it may seem near to impossible to find alcohol anywhere in the city. Do not despair.

While, of course, being a Muslim country and due to legal restrictions it may not be as easily accessible as in some cities, there are several shops that do sell alcohol in Tangier.

Always keep in mind, however, that drinking in public in Morocco is prohibited and in general, being drunk outside is never a great idea. In the comfort of wherever you are living or staying, however, you have some options of where to buy and enjoy a bottle:

1. Casa Pepe

39 rue Ibn Rochd .

This little market is just off of the main boulevard Mohammed V and not only sells wine, beer, and spirits, but also a collection of imported items from Europe including pork products, if you’re missing bacon or ham.

2. La Fine Bouche

24 Rue de Fes

Another store selling alcohol, imports and specialty items (it’s where I always buy natural peanut butter- my one guilty pleasure from home).

3. The Market on Rue de Fes .

This place doesn’t have a name that I know of, but it is a hole-in-the-wall market selling drinks of all kinds, both alcoholic and sodas. It is at the top of the street in between Avenue Belgique and Rue Mexique, just to the right of a well-known local pastry shop called Alaska.

Things to do in Marrakech – A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Red City

How to get to Tangier Morocco

1. getting to tangier from the airport.

Tangier has an international airport where many flights, especially from Europe, arrive on a daily basis. 

You can only get from the airport to the city center of Tangier  by taxi. These taxis will be at the exit of the terminal and have fixed prices. A ride from the airport to the city center costs  100 MAD .

To get from Tangier to the airport, you can take a  Petit Taxi  (the blue ones) from anywhere in the city. Some taxi drivers will try to charge you more but know that the fixed price to the airport is  100 MAD  as well. 

2. Getting to Tangier by Ferry

Arriving in Tangier by ferry is a great way to start your journey in Morocco . I particularly enjoyed seeing the land getting closer and closer from the boat and felt so excited when Tangier was in sight.

There are currently two Ferry companies operating in the Strait of Gibraltar bringing people from Tarifa to Tangier and vice versa.

The FRS service runs up to 8 times per day with a sailing duration of around 1 hour while the Inter Shipping service runs up to 6 times per day with a duration of 2 hours.

Taking a ferry across the straight to Spain is also a great way to renew your Moroccan travel visa .

Tangier ferries also connect Morocco with Spain, Italy & France with crossings available to Tarifa, Algeciras, Malaga & Barcelona (in Spain), Genoa & Savona (in Italy) & Sete (in France).

Tangier Ferry crossings are operated by FRS , Inter Shipping , Balearia , Trasmediterranea , Grandi Navi Veloci , Grimaldi Lines & AML   and, depending on the time of year, you’ll find a choice of up to 69 ferries crossings daily.

3.How to get to Tangier from Casablanca

Getting from casablanca to tangier by bus.

Since most people will arrive and start their visit to this superb country in Casablanca, I decided to include practical information on how to transit between the two cities.

The best way to get from Casablanca to Tangier is by bus with the number one bus company in Morocco called CTM .

I’ve traveled around Morocco with different companies and I have to say that CTM although being slightly more expensive than other bus companies, also provides much more comfortable buses.

The trip between the two cities will cost between 120 and 190 Moroccan dirhams and takes around 5 hours .

There is a direct bus leaving from Casablanca and arriving in Tangier. Buses leave every four hours, and they operate every day.

You can catch the bus at the CTM bus station in Casablanca on Rue Léon (see map below). You can reserve your ticket in advance at the bus station or book it online .

However, if you book your ticket online, you still have to go to the CTM office to pay for your luggage on the day of departure so make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes in advance.

In Tangier, you’ll arrive at the main city bus station “Gare Routiere” at Place al Jamia al Arabia (see map below). From there you’ll have to take a taxi (see  Getting around in Tangier ) to reach the city center.

Getting to Tangier from Casablanca by car

If you have your own car or if you are renting one , the road from Casablanca along the coast is definitely a pleasant drive. The driving distance between Casablanca and Tangier is 338.82 km. It should take around 3 hours to reach the northern city.

Driving from Casablanca to Tangier is a great idea if you have the time and if you want the freedom to stop along the coast and take great pictures.

You will also drive through other beautiful cities such as Rabat (the capital of Morocco) and Larrache (where you can visit the Ruins of Lixus ). To drive from Casablanca to Tangier simply follow highway A1 towards the north along the coast.

Driving on highways and on countryside roads in Morocco is usually quite safe, however, if you drive in big cities like Casablanca, Tangier, or Marrakech , it can be quite challenging.

In large cities, it can often feel very chaotic. You will definitely feel a big difference between the cities, the smaller towns and rural areas when it comes to driving.

Another thing worth noting is that in large Moroccan cities, red lights and stop signs are sometimes completely on the far right of the road, so they are super easy to be missed if you don’t pay attention. Sometimes they can also be a bit hidden behind tree branches.

Getting to Tangier from Casablanca by train

Another great option to get to Tangier from Casablanca is to take the train. Traveling around Morocco by train is a great option because they’re cheap and they are a great way to see the incredible Moroccan landscapes.

In Morocco, it’s very easy to buy your train tickets in person directly at the train station.

All the information on prices and timetables can be found on the ONCF website , once you know which train you will take you can head over to the Casablanca train station to buy your ticket.

Make sure to bring cash to buy your ticket as it’s not always possible to pay by debit or credit card. There is a direct train leaving daily from Casablanca and arriving at Tangier. It leaves five times a day.

The journey takes approximately 5 h. Once you are in Tangier, you’ll need to take a taxi to reach the old city (see  Getting around in Tangier  in the section below).

Top things to do in Casablanca – The Complete City Guide

How to get around in Tangier

Taking a taxi or a city bus in tangier.

In Tangier there are two types of taxis (as everywhere else in Morocco), Petits Taxis (small taxis) and Grands Taxis (big taxis).

The Petits Taxis are smaller cars and they are ultramarine with a yellow stripe down the side. They are used to take short rides within the city, charging 50% more at night.

Tangier suffers a constant shortage of taxis, so always remember that you can flag down a taxi that already has passengers but still has spare seats left.

The Grands Taxis are used to take long rides from Tangier to the surrounding towns and cities or from the airport to the city center. The Grand taxis in Tangier are typically beige colored four-door Mercedes from the eighties without air conditioning.

The Grand taxi is commonly a shared taxi in Morocco, the taxi will usually not leave the city before it’s full unless you pay for the entire taxi (all 6 seats) just for yourself.

They can be found at the port when arriving by ferry, at the airport, in bus stations, at the train station and at the bigger hotels in the cities.

If you wish to go around the city and don’t want to take a taxi, your other option is to take the public bus .

The Alsa website has all the information concerning the schedules, prices and bus lines of Tangier. A ticket for a ride on the green city buses costs 3.5 dirhams as of April 2016 and there are plenty of bus stops all around the city.

How to get to the bus stations in Tangier

There are two different bus stations that you can use in Tangier to take buses from and reach the neighboring cities.

One of them is the main Tangier city bus station, “Gare Routiere” at Place al Jamia al Arabia and the other one is the CTM Gare Voyageurs (new private bus station) on the Route to Tetouan, about three miles from the city center of Tangier.

While the first one ( “Gare Routiere” at Place al Jamia al Arabia ) is very central and conveniently located, I would still recommend taking a bus or a taxi to travel the extra miles to reach CTM Gare Voyageurs .

I took buses from both bus station and although the prices were almost the same from both places, the quality and comfort of the buses at CTM Gare Voyageurs were of a much higher standard.

“Gare Routiere” at Place al Jamia al Arabia is located about 2km to the south of the city center. The location is at the following address: Avenue Idriss 1er Tanger Morocco.

This bus station can be pretty busy since it is so central and because the buses are slightly cheaper.

Here you will find a variety of bus companies all offering buses to different parts of the country, it’s also possible to find shared taxis leaving for the neighboring towns such as the shared taxis for Chefchaouen here.

CTM Gare Voyageurs is not so conveniently located but the extra comfort these buses provide makes the extra mile worth it.

The bus station itself is on the Route to Tetouan, about three miles from the city center and directly across Morora railway station. It is possible to get there by taxi or by taking bus 10 on Avenue Pasteur.

How to get to the train station in Tangier

If you want to travel onward to Marrakesh, Fez, Casablanca or any other Moroccan city that has a train service, you will need to make your way to one of the train stations in Tangier.

There are two train stations directly in the city, one is called Tanger Ville and the other one Morora however from our experience, Tanger Ville is much quieter and more efficient and is definitely the one that you’ll want to get to for trains to Casa, Marrakech, Fes, etc.

This railway station has been enlarged to accommodate the new high-speed train and it has lost a bit of its original charm but It’s only about a 7-minute taxi ride from the port making it super easy to be reached from almost anywhere in the city.

You can also avoid taking a taxi by taking bus number 13 to the Tanger Ville station , or the railway company’s Supratours shuttle.

All the information on prices and timetables for the Moroccan trains can be found on the ONCF website , once you know which train you want, you can head over to the train station to buy your ticket.

Make sure to have cash to buy your ticket as it’s not always possible to pay by debit or credit card.

One last tip before I finish this (lengthy) guide. 

I highly recommend getting your hands on the Lonely Planet Moroccan Arabic Phrasebook .

It is packed with all the essential words and phrases you will need on your trip to Morocco and will help you in every situation — from finding a hotel room to ordering tajine or joining the local festivities this book will cover almost every situation you could imagine.

10 tips and tricks to learn Moroccan Arabic

I hope this guide was useful to you and I wish you a fantastic stay in Tangier!

If you have any questions or if you’ve already been to Tangier, we love to hear from you in the comments below!

Related posts

11 Best Things to do in Rabat Morocco – The Complete Guide to Morocco’s Capital City

The Honest Guide to Meknes Morocco and Volubilis – 9 best things to do and what to skip

10 Best Things to Do in Agadir Morocco – The Complete Guide to Morocco’s Surf city

What are the 9 Best Things To Do in Casablanca Morocco? Casablanca City Guide

16 Top Things to do in Marrakech Morocco – The Complete Guide to Morocco’s Red City

The Fes tannery In Photos: The best way to Visit the Leather Tanneries of Fes

More morocco travel resources:.

• What you need to know before you go: 23 Travel Tips for Morocco
• Is Morocco Safe? Safety Guide to Morocco
• How to avoid the 12 most common scams in Morocco
• See the best of Morocco by following these 3 great travel itineraries
• Visit these beautiful 17 places in Morocco
• Tips for traveling to Morocco during Ramadan
• Morocco City Guides: Fez , Tangier , Essaouira , Chefchaouen , Rabat , Meknes , Marrakech , Casablanca , Agadir
• The best daytrips from Marrakech
• Fun things to do in the Sahara: how to plan a desert trip to Merzouga
• The Complete Guide to Imlil and Hiking Mount Toubkal
• Everything you need to know about visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Rock climbing and other fun things to do in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir
• How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen
• A guide to visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Surfing in Morocco – The best surfing spots in Morocco
• How to visit Paradise Valley in Agadir
• What to wear in Morocco: Complete packing list for Morocco
• Morocco photography tips: How to take portraits of people in Morocco
• Extend your stay in Morocco using one of these 3 ways to renew your Morocco visa
• Useful tips on how to take the ferry from Tangier to Spain
• Books about Morocco: 10 Great Novels set in Morocco

18 thoughts on “20 Top Things to Do in Tangier Morocco – The Complete City Guide”

Great article! I am Moroccan, learning from you about Tangier!

Happy to hear Mo :)!

Thank you so much for an excellent and comprehensive blog. It will be very useful. I was wondering if you had any further info on being a solo female traveller? Is it safe in Tangier? You also mention the beaches at the start but dont include anything about swimming – are these beaches popular for swimming/sunbathing in the summer? Thank you!

Thank you Caitlin! Tangier is safe for a solo female traveler, I just don’t recommend wandering alone in the medina after sunset, as for any city in Morocco. You can definitely swim and sunbathe at the beaches, not sure how popular they are in the summer as I’ve only spent the winter months in Morocco. Warm wishes, Cynthia

Siempre es bueno ir en un tour? Se puede viajar sola? Si conoces gente de Marruecos por internet que muchas chicas se conocen con marroquíes, no sería buena idea?

Ruby, Thank you so much for all of this amazing information!! I lived in Tangier for a few years when I was very young (the 1950’s) and have not been back since. We lived in a community just outside town (walkable – I did it once from the American Library downtown and got into mountains of trouble for terrifying my parents) called “California”. I’m hoping you know of it (was all expats then) and could point me in the right direction to find it today, if it still even exists. I have a trip planned to Morocco in May, 2024 and would love to visit a favorite childhood haunt. Thanks, Andy

Great blog and post. I have been mostly following your recommendations and sights for morocco. Been great so far!

Hope to meet you in your journey someday.

Salam, Naseel

Thank you Naseel, really happy to hear! Enjoy your trip and hopefully see you one day 🙂

It’s 60 DH for visiting the caves, it’s not free , and yes the man made cave is still 5 DH

Thank you for this update!

Hello, I enjoyed reading your blog. I will be in Tangier on September 10-13 and was wondering If you will be in town? I would love to treat you to a cup of tea at Cafe Hafa and learn about your trips. Let me know either way , thank you

Hi Andrea, thanks so much for the invitation but I’m currently in Kyrgyzstan and will be in Central Asia until October. Wishing you a great time in Tangier!

Nice post. I’m looking forward to visiting Tangier in a couple of weeks. I’ll definitely check out Cafe Hafa and Cinema Rif.

You will love those places Steven! Have a great time in Tangier!

Hi Niko, am in Tangier right now, love it and loved your article, really informative and so helpful. one question, is there a dance studio around here in the centre where I can take dancing lessons? anything appreciated, I live in Chiang Mai, taking lessons there

I’m sure there are a few dance studios near the center. I’m not 100% sure where they are but I would recommend contacting Ruby at https://www.rubyjosephine.com/ She’s been living in Tangier and teaching dance and leading dance workshops there. All the best.

What an incredible guide and what an honor to be a part of creating it! Thank you for this great collaboration! x

It was an honor to work together on this post with you Ruby! You’re the expert on Tangier!! Looking forward to future collaborations 😉

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Tangier, Morocco: Planning Your Trip

Planning Your Trip

Things to do, what to eat and drink, where to stay, getting there, culture and customs, money saving tips.

Tangier has long been romanticized by artists, Beat poets, and writers who have arrived at its busy shores seeking adventure. Tangier has also been a gateway connecting Europe and the rest of Africa. Cruise ships often dock at the city on their way from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, and travelers in Europe find it easy to take a short flight or a quick ferry from Spain to the port of Tangier.

Although most visitors to Tangier come for a day, the charm of the city is best enjoyed by spending a few days here. This guide will help you prepare for the perfect trip to Tangier.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tangier is fall (September to November) or spring (March to May) when the weather is ideal and the holiday crowds aren't around. Summer can be unbearably hot, although the ocean breeze helps to keep it cooler than other Moroccan cities.
• Language: The two official languages of Morocco are Modern Standard Arabic and Tamazight, but Moroccan Arabic is what's most commonly spoken on the street. In Tangier, street signs are often in Arabic and French. Locals, especially those working in tourism, can often switch seamlessly between Arabic, French, Spanish, and English.
• Currency: The local currency is the Moroccan dirham, and one dirham is subdivided into 100 centimes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted by a growing number of businesses, but it's a good idea to carry local currency as well, especially for shopping in the market.
• Getting Around: Many parts of Tangier that are visited by tourists are accessible by walking, but petit taxis are also available for getting around faster.
• Travel Tip: While hospitable and friendly folk abound in Tangier, be careful when you're in a touristy area and you're offered something for "free," because it is rarely free. Whether it's a guided tour, help buying ferry tickets, or directions to your hotel, expect to be asked for payment at the end.

Tangier doesn't have quite the offbeat charm it did in the 1940s and 1950s, when you could rub shoulders with the likes of Truman Capote, Paul Bowles, and Tennessee Williams. But if you give it some time and ignore the tourist tours, it will grow on you. Tangier is an interesting, cosmopolitan mix of African and European influences. As with many cities in Morocco , there's an old town (Medina) and a new town (Ville Nouvelle).

• Explore the Medina: Tangier's Medina (Old Walled City) is a lively place and feels like stepping back in time. Its labyrinth of alleyways is where you'll find the souks, marketplaces of stalls selling spices, tanned leather, food items, metals, and more. Tourist trinkets are plentiful here and if this is your only stop in Morocco, buy away. But if you plan to continue traveling in Morocco, you'll find better deals elsewhere.
• Tour the American Legation Museum :  Morocco was the first nation to recognize American independence, and the U.S. established a diplomatic mission in Tangier in 1821. Now a museum, the Tangier American Legation is located in the southwest corner of the Medina and worth a look. The museum houses some fascinating art including a room dedicated to Paul Bowles and works by Eugene Delacroix, Yves Saint Laurent, and James McBey.
• Savor a Meal at Place de France:  This plaza is the gateway to the Ville Nouvelle, or New City. Adjacent to the Medina, the Ville Nouvelle has modern restaurants and some Western chains. For a bite to eat or some tea while enjoying the view of the sea, try Terrasse des Paresseux next to Place de France.
• Marvel at Moroccan Art at the Kasbah:  The Kasbah is located high on a hill in Tangier with some good views of the ocean. The old Sultan's palace (built in the 17th century) lies within the Kasbah's walls. It is known as Dar El Makhzen and is now a museum that houses fine examples of Moroccan art.
• People-watch at Grand Socco: This large square at the main entrance of the Medina is a busy transport hub and a good place to watch the chaos of traffic, carts, and people go about their daily routines while sitting in the plaza and enjoying a cup of tea.
• Enjoy a Nearby Beach:  Tangier does have some beautiful beaches, but the ones closest to town are rather dirty. If you want beach time in Tangier, consider taking a taxi about 25 minutes to Achakkar Beach, which is home to some incredible rock formations called the Hercules Caves.

The two dishes you'll most commonly see on restaurant menus—especially around the Medina—are tagine and couscous . Couscous is a North African staple grain that's been eaten by indigenous Berber tribes for at least 1,000 years. The fluffy grain is served topped with stewed vegetables or meats and always hits the spot. Tagine is the unofficial national dish of Morocco and it's served in the earthen clay pot called a tajine . The dish uses slow-cooked beef, lamb, or chicken with hearty vegetables, local spices, and dates for a touch of sweetness.

After you've tried the two most popular dishes, venture out for other Morrocan specialties. Bastilla—a savory meat pie traditionally made with pigeon—hearkens back to when Morocco and Spain were both ruled by the Moors. If you're an eggplant fan or just eggplant curious, zaalouk is a rich eggplant tomato sauce used as a savory dip.

Although Morocco is a Muslim country, alcohol consumption is allowed and you'll find plenty of bars that cater to tourists around the waterfront and the Ville Nouvelle. But the most ubiquitous drink is mint tea, often called Moroccan mint tea because of how enmeshed it is in the local culture. The hot green tea brewed with spearmint and lots of sugar is served year-round and at all times of the day.

Tangier has a wide range of accommodations, from affordable youth hostels to five-star hotels, but if you want an authentic Moroccan experience, look for a local riad . Riads are traditional homes with an interior patio garden and oftentimes have a rooftop terrace, as well. The hustle of the street and walking through the Medina can overwhelm the senses, so retreating to your peaceful riad is usually a welcome respite.

Wherever you choose to stay, it's recommended to pick your accommodations and make a reservation before arriving. You may be confronted by hotel touts trying to convince you to stay at their hotel. To avoid stress, have the phone number and address of your lodging written down, and plan out how you're you're going to get there before arriving in Tangier.

If you take a taxi and your taxi driver pretends not to know the location of your hotel, take another taxi. Most upscale hotels can also arrange a driver for you, which alleviates much of that stress..

It may be hectic and overwhelming when you arrive, but once you get to your lodging and can drop off your luggage, the rest of your time in Tangier will be much more relaxed.

Many visitors make a stop in Tangier while visiting Spain. The easiest—and most likely the cheapest—way to get to Tangier is to go by plane. Flights to Tangier leave from almost all of the major Spanish airports.

If you're already in southern Spain, Tangier is just a 30-minute ferry ride away and serves as the gateway to the rest of Morocco. However, you first have to get to one of the small Spanish port towns of Algeciras or Tarifa near Gibraltar , which aren't easy to reach if you don't have your own vehicle.

The nearest big cities are Seville and Malaga , both of which also have international airports and direct flights to Tangier. If you want to save time and money, a plane is your best option. But if you want a bit of adventure, then nothing beats boating across the Strait of Gibraltar.

If you're coming from another city in Morocco such as Fez  or Marrakesh , there are easy train connections from both cities. The Tangier train station is about 2.5 miles southeast of the ferry port. The main long-distance bus station, CTM, is right outside the ferry port terminal. The buses in Morocco are comfortable and everyone gets a seat. 

The customs in Morocco are likely different from what you live at home, and part of respecting the local culture involves doing some research before going. It's a Muslim country so plan to dress more conservatively, especially if you're a woman . Covering your hair isn't necessary unless you're entering a mosque, and it's not uncommon to see local women with their hair out on the street. However, women should cover their legs and their upper arms, while men need to wear pants when entering a mosque.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in general and can actually be unsafe for LGBTQ+ travelers. Save the smooches for when you're in your hotel to avoid any unwanted attention.

• Tangier is infamous among visitors for its persistent touts. Walking through the city and especially in the Medina, you'll be pressured—sometimes relentlessly—to purchase whatever good or service is being sold. To avoid buying things you don't really want, just make clear that you're not interested and move on.
• When you find something you actually do want to purchase in the Medina, be prepared to haggle down the price. If the price still seems too high after haggling, be prepared to walk away and you'll likely be called back with a better deal.
• There are two types of taxis in Tangier: local petit taxis and longer-distance grand taxis. For getting around the city, petit taxis are always less expensive and are easy to spot by their signature light-blue color with a horizontal yellow line.

Encyclopedia Brittanica. " Morocco-People ." Sept. 17, 2021.

Investopedia. " Moroccan Dirham (MAD) ." Aug. 30, 2021.

The Washington Post. " A guide to couscous: The history, different types and how to cook with it ." May 14, 2021.

Your Trip to Morocco: The Complete Guide

The Top 15 Things to See and Do in Morocco

The 18 Top Things to Do in Meknes, Morocco

Train Travel in Morocco

How to Get From Malaga to Tangier by Bus, Plane, Car, and Ferry

Chefchaouen: Planning Your Trip

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Marrakesh, Morocco

Fez Travel Guide

Marrakesh Travel Guide

12 Best Things to Do in Tetouan, Morocco

How to Travel From Casablanca to Fez by Train, Bus, Car and Plane

Marrakesh Medina, Morocco: The Complete Guide

How to Travel From Seville, Spain, to Morocco by Bus, Car, and Plane

Your Ultimate Guide to Essaouira, Morocco

Your Trip to Casablanca: The Complete Guide

Train Schedule for Travel to and From Tangier, Morocco

Tangier Travel: A Gateway to North Africa

Tangier, a city steeped in history and culture, stands proudly at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, making it a gateway to the captivating wonders of North Africa. Situated at the northern tip of Morocco , this coastal gem has beckoned travelers for centuries with its unique blend of influences, from Arabic and European to African and Middle Eastern. In this Tangier travel guide, we’ll explore this city’s rich tapestry of experiences, from its ancient medina and historic sites to its vibrant arts scene and stunning Mediterranean views.

Tangier Travel Guide

A Melting Pot of Cultures

Tangier’s allure lies in its ability to bridge diverse cultures. As one of Morocco’s major port cities, it has served as a meeting point for people from around the world. From Phoenician and Roman settlements to Arab, Berber, Spanish, and French influences, Tangier’s history is a mosaic of cultures. This rich tapestry is still evident today as you wander through its streets and engage with its welcoming residents.

The Medina: A Glimpse into Tangier’s Past

Begin your journey through Tangier’s history by exploring its ancient medina. Unlike some of Morocco’s more bustling medinas, Tangier’s medina offers a relaxed and authentic experience. As you wander through its narrow, winding streets, you’ll encounter local artisans, traditional tea shops, and small markets selling unique handicrafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Grand Socco , a bustling square where locals gather and traders sell their wares.

Historical Sites and Landmarks

Tangier boasts a wealth of historical sites that transport you back in time. The Kasbah, a 17th-century fortress, offers panoramic views of the city and the Strait of Gibraltar. Inside, you’ll find the Museum of Moroccan Arts showcasing the region’s rich heritage. Stroll along the walls and gardens, and you’ll discover tranquil courtyards adorned with colorful tiles and fountains.

Nearby, the Dar el Makhzen, a former sultan’s palace, now houses the Museum of Moroccan Antiquities. It’s home to an impressive collection of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and manuscripts, providing insights into Morocco’s history and culture.

The Caves of Hercules

Just outside of Tangier, the Caves of Hercules are a natural wonder worth exploring. Legend has it that Hercules rested here after his 12 labors and the caves bear his name. The main attraction is the “Map of Africa,” a stunning opening in the shape of the African continent that offers breathtaking views of the sea below. Exploring the caves and the surrounding area is a popular day trip for visitors.

Tangier’s Thriving Arts Scene

Tangier has long been a haven for artists, writers, and musicians seeking inspiration. In the mid-20th century, the city attracted famous figures like Tennessee Williams, Paul Bowles, and the Rolling Stones. The American Legation Museum, housed in a historic building, pays homage to this literary and artistic history. Today, Tangier continues to be a vibrant hub for the arts, with galleries, exhibitions, and live music events showcasing both local and international talent.

The Beaches of Tangier

Tangier’s Mediterranean coastline offers respite from the city’s bustling streets. The city’s beaches, including the popular Playa de Tangier and Playa de la Baie de Tanger, invite travelers to relax and unwind. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the corniche, savor fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, or take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Mediterranean.

Tangier as a Launchpad

Beyond its own attractions, Tangier’s strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other parts of Morocco and even venturing into Spain. The Tangier-Med port, one of the largest in Africa, connects Morocco to Europe, facilitating easy access to Spain’s southern coast. From here, you can explore cities like Tetouan, Chefchaouen , and Morocco’s imperial cities.

Tangier is more than just a city; it’s a gateway to the rich tapestry of North Africa. Its blend of cultures, historical significance, and vibrant arts scene make it a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re meandering through its ancient medina, admiring its historical sites, or savoring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine , Tangier offers an enchanting experience that will leave you captivated by its unique charm. As you embark on your Tangier travel adventure, you’ll discover why this city has inspired generations of travelers and artists alike.

Morocco Trip Time Services

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

She Loves Wanderlust

Africa · 8 January, 2021

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Tangier, Morocco

Last Updated on 24 January, 2024

Read More:  The Ultimate 2 Week Morocco Itinerary

Getting there.

Good news! There are more ways to get to Tangier than any other Moroccan city.

By boat – Algeciras (Spain) to Tangier is the most popular route to Morocco. High-speed ferries travel almost every hour, year-round and take around 30 minutes to cross. There are also slower ferries that are a little cheaper. A roundtrip ticket for a foot passenger, on a high-speed ferry, costs 37 Euros. R oll off the ferry and you’re immediately in the heart of Tangier.

Tarifa (Spain) to Tangier –   high-speed ferries leave every 2 hours from Spain’s windsurfing capital, Tarifa, and take 35 minutes to get to Tangier. FRS offers good service on this route, a round-trip adult ticket sets you back around 37 Euros.

By plane  – an international Tangier-Ibn Batouta Airport is around 11km from the city to which you get to directly from Spain, France, The Netherlands or Belgium. It also directly connects Tangier and other Moroccan cities – Nador, Agadir, Casablanca, and Marrakech. To find your flight check Skyscanner . 

By bus – the main long-distance bus station, CTM, is right outside the ferry port terminal about 5km from Tangier city centre. You can catch buses to all the major towns and cities in Morocco. Check CTM website to find out if there are buses to your chosen city and the timetable. 

By train – the Tangier train station ( Tanger Ville ) is about 4km southeast of the ferry port and bus station. You can take a petit taxi to and from the station (just make sure the meter is on), or check with your accommodation who might be able to arrange a transfer you. Check ONCF website to find out if there are trains to your chosen city and the timetable.

Read More:  Overnight Train From Marrakech to Tangier

Where to stay.

Staying in Tangier is easy thanks to the wide range of accommodation available. There is a great range of small hotels, hostels and riads to choose from, especially near the medina

[columns size=”1/2″ last=”false”]

[columns size=”1/2″ last=”true”]

Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel & Residences   (luxury) – not your traditional Moroccan dar or riad, but very beautiful and luxurious hotel located about 10min away from the Medina. It’s close to the beach, has a rooftop terrace with stunning views, and screams comfort!

Things To Do

Buy a bus ticket from the bus station if you’re travelling somewhere else after tangier, stroll the beach promenade.

The town’s main beach is a large sweep of sand that’s extremely popular with locals who use it for swimming, sunbathing and soccer. Along the promenade, there are cafés, restaurants and beach clubs for you to enjoy.

Caves of Hercules

 Located about 30min drive from the Medina, this part natural and part man-made cave is worth getting out of your local neighbourhood and checking out. It was believed that the cave is one end of a subterranean ley tunnel over 24 km long which passes under the Strait of Gibraltar and emerges at St. Michael’s Cave in Gibraltar. Legend has it that the Barbary macaques entered the Rock of Gibraltar from Morocco this way. Mythological tradition also holds that the Roman god Hercules stayed and slept in this cave before doing his 11th labour.

Cap Spartel

About 13min drive from Caves of Hercules, Cap Spartel is the promontory at the entrance of Strait of Gibraltar.  It rises to a height of 326m above sea level and is the most North Western point of mainland Africa. Worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty and the views all the way to the Spanish coast.

Achakar Beach

Located between Caves of Hercules and Cap Spartle, Achakar beach is a lovely beach with a vast expanse of sand. The beach is known for being very clean with the purest seawater.

Parc Perdicaris (Parc Rmilat)

This blissful coastal park is located on the way to Cap Spartel. It adds up to almost 70 hectares and is a perfect place to have a picnic or a stroll. The park was an old property of a US diplomat but now it belongs to the Moroccan State, which is in charge of its maintenance and preservation.

Explore Kasbah neighbourhood

Visit Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures

The former sultan’s palace of Dar El Makhzen. The focus is on the history of the area from prehistoric times to the 19th century. However, the exhibits are presented in French and Arabic only. Work your way anticlockwise around the first courtyard before heading inside to the rest of the displays, followed by a walk in the charming Andalusian garden.

Visit The American Legation Museum

The first property acquired abroad by the United States, this museum spanning over five floors is an elegant mansion that is a must see. There you will find some unusual displays such as an 1839 letter from a hapless US consul who had been given two lions as a diplomatic gift as well as an impressive display of paintings. There is also a small bookshop and a wing dedicated to American author Paul Bowles.

Enjoy a Mint Tea in Petit Socco 

Once known for drugs and prostitution, Petit Socco aka the “Souq Dakhli” located in the Medina is nothing else now but a square with cafés perfect for an afternoon mint tea and people watching.

 Relax at The Grand Socco

What used to be a place for a major market is now a large, palm-ringed cobblestone plaza perfect for sitting on a bench to take a moment and relax. If you climb the steps to the highest point of the circle, you will find a café where locals play  parchís –  a very popular Spanish board game. 

See The Grand Mosque of Tangier

The largest Mosque in Tangier located in the Medina is a beautiful sight to check out from outside as non-muslims aren’t allowed inside. Snap a picture of the stunning entrance and don’t forget to look up for the minaret.

Explore the Medina  

I couldn’t help but think of Alchemist by Paulo Coelho when wandering through the Medina of Tangier, and that made it extra magical. I loved the streets with orange trees which were picture perfect as well as more beautiful doors. The markets weren’t as great as in Marrakech or Essaouira, but it was still interesting to wander around.

Visit Cap Malabata

Located about 25min drive from the Medina, there is a lighthouse and castle built on top of the cliffs in the early 20th century. Come here for the café and the breathtaking views as the sun goes down.

Where To Eat

How To Get Around

The best way to get around Tangier is by foot which will allow you to explore the city better, stop for pictures and take it all in. You can also get around using petit taxi just make sure the driver has the meter on. Grand taxis are much more expensive and you have to negotiate the rate in advance. 

The best time to visit Tangier is from September to November and March to May when the weather is perfect – not too hot, but also not too cold. I have visited in late December and the evenings were rather chilly but days were still comfortable enough to explore it by foot.

Pin this post for later!

join the club

You’ll also love.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

My Experience Travelling by Overnight Train in Morocco

Trending now, sheloveswanderlust.

• Itineraries
• Packing Guides
• Travel Shop
• Privacy & Cookies Policy

Copyright © 2024 She Loves Wanderlust · Theme by 17th Avenue

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

The inside guide to Tangier, Morocco's buzzy port city

​For an introduction to Morocco’s charms, there are few better cities than Tangier, home to a colourful medina, lavish palaces and a seductive cafe culture that has long drawn free-spirited movers and shakers.

For centuries, the cosmopolitan, creative city of Tangier — poised at Morocco’s northern tip — has been a gateway between Europe and Africa. Whether you arrive here on a ferry from France or Spain, or catch a sub-three-hour flight from the UK, getting here is straightforward and, as the northern terminus of Morocco’s expanding road and Al Boraq high-speed rail network, it’s also a great base from which to explore the country. Don’t whizz through too hastily, though. Tangier is one of North Africa’s most exciting cities and there are plenty of reasons to linger.

In the 20th century, the likes of Matisse, Kerouac, Jagger and Hendrix did exactly that, drifting south from Europe to bask in Tangier’s dazzling sunlight and laid-back cafe culture. More recently, the city has been riding a wave of expansion and development, and has regained its creative confidence, with heritage-conscious Moroccans from Casablanca and Fez settling here to join forces with local talent. For designers, performers and multimedia artists, Tangier has become something of a magnet, blending an under-the-radar buzz with a breezy je ne sais quoi.

The city is stronger on sensory experiences than on monuments or museums, so take your cue from favourite meeting place La Terrasse des Paresseux (Idlers’ Terrace) on Boulevard Pasteur, and idle along. With telescopes, historic cannons and commanding views across the Strait of Gibraltar, this rampart-like pavement is a prime people-watching spot, as is Tangier’s palm-shaded main square, Grand Socco , a five-minute walk away. Its official name, Place du 9 Avril 1947, commemorates the day Sultan Muhammad V gave a stirring speech here, calling for independence.

Cinémathèque de Tanger , on Grand Socco’s southern flank, is one of Tangier’s artist-run creative hubs. Tucked behind the original facade of the art deco Cinéma Rif , it comprises North Africa’s first arthouse cinema and film archive, plus a cool cafe and workspace where hipsters tap at laptops under a wall of vintage posters.  

The tree-dotted lawns of the Mendoubia Garden lend a freshness to the north side of Grand Socco, while to the east, knotted alleyways beckon. This is the medina , Tangier’s old town, founded seven centuries ago and recently spruced up. There’s a Spanish feel to its fringes, where shops and cafes with striped awnings are topped by apartments with art deco lines or filigree balconies. To the south is the American Legation , with its noteworthy collection of US-Moroccan art.  

In the medina’s souks, clusters of merchants sell glistening buckets of olives, rainbows of babouche slippers, fragrant spices, freshly baked khobz bread and neat stacks of tangerines, Tangier’s signature fruit. Pause in Place Petit Socco for mint tea, either at Café Tingis — another people-watching spot — or on the rooftop at Palais Zahia , a boutique riad decorated in jewel-bright colours.

The Kasbah , the lofty citadel in the medina’s northwestern corner, offers a different perspective. Enter via Bab el Assa, depicted by Matisse in the 1910s, and you’ll pass the beautiful Assa fountain , richly decorated with zellige mosaic tilework. There are more wonders in Dar el Makhzen , the palace that dominates the citadel, including the ceramics, silks and illuminated manuscripts of the Museum of Moroccan Arts and the Museum of Antiquities . The surrounding jumble of whitewashed houses hides a smattering of art galleries, murals and places to eat, including El Morocco Club , one of the best restaurants in town. The rooftops beyond gaze over Tangier’s new fishing port, part of an ambitious plan that has also created Morocco’s first urban marina, Tanja Marina Bay , southeast of the medina.

For a sunset stroll, descend to the corniche and beach or, better still, head west to Cap Spartel , a leafy nature reserve where a lighthouse watches over the mingling waters of the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Back in town, catch a concert or reading at LABO Studios , the Institut Français or Instituto Cervantes . Cutting-edge events often take place, too: if homegrown hip-hop performance collective Groupe Acrobatique de Tanger   happen to be in town, drop everything and go.

Published in the April 2022 issue of   National Geographic Traveller (UK)

Follow us on social media

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

FREE BONUS ISSUE

Related topics.

• CITY GUIDES

You May Also Like

A guide to Milan and what's new in Italy's most fashionable northern city

A family city guide to Berlin

A guide to Jaipur's craft scene, from Rajasthani block printing to marble carving

A food guide to Barcelona, from historic markets to atmospheric vermouth bars

The inside guide to Christchurch, New Zealand's southern belle

• Environment
• Perpetual Planet
• History & Culture

History & Culture

• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Paid Content
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• tangier-tetouan-northwest
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Fatima Vieira

Our experience was amazing. Very well organized. During our stay there was a problem with a Riad , Insight guides solved the problem in a very professional...

At the meeting point of two seas as well as two continents, Tangier’s strategic location has made it a highly sought-after locale since ancient times. Founded by Mediterranean trading nations, ruled by empirical Romans, and squabbled over by European powers before finally returning to the Moroccan nation in 1956, it’s perhaps no surprise that the city defies comparison with any other in Morocco.

Brief history of Tangier

Tangier medina, the ville nouvelle.

For the first half of the twentieth century, Tangier was an international city with its own laws and administration, plus an eclectic community of exiles, expatriates and refugees. It was home, at various times, to Spanish and Central European refugees, Moroccan nationalists and – drawn by loose tax laws and free-port status – to over seventy banks and four thousand companies, many of them dealing in currency transactions forbidden in their own countries. Writers were also attracted to the city, including the American novelist Paul Bowles, who called it his “dream city”, and William Burroughs, in whose books Tangier appears as “Interzone”, spent most of the 1950s here. Tangier was also the world’s first and most famous gay resort, favoured by the likes of Tennessee Williams, Joe Orton and Kenneth Williams.

Rooted in an enduring eccentricity, Tangier’s charm is undeniable. Until fairly recently, the city’s tourism future didn’t look too rosy, having, over the years, gained a reputation as somewhere to avoid due to continuing reports of a large population of hustlers and unsavoury characters known to prey on foreign arrivals. King Mohammed VI, however, has provided much of the impetus for Tangier to re-invent itself under a flurry of renovation and building projects that will culminate in 2016 with the completion of a remodelled port and marina that aims to compete with better-known holiday ports along the Mediterranean.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Morocco, created by local experts

10 days  / from 2399 USD

Moroccan Cities and Ultimate Sahara

From the cities to the desert - follow the footsteps of Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca, discover the blue and whitewashed buildings of Chefchaouen before heading on to Fez and consequently the desert. Stay overnight in a luxurious desert camp before continuing to Marrakech.

8 days  / from 1899 USD

Highlights of Morocco

For those short on time, this trip allows you to visit the highlights of Morocco in little over a week: the cultural capital Fez, the beautiful city of Chefchaouen, sleeping in a deluxe tent in the desert, as well as discovering Marrakech - it's time to explore Morocco!

8 days  / from 2242 USD

Luxurious Morocco

Highlights include Rabat, Fes, Chefchaouen, and a luxury desert camp in Merzouga. Privately guided activities with expert local guides allow you to truly get to know Moroccan culture and cuisine. Combine it with the best hotels and riads in the cities and you have the perfect trip.

Tingis is Amazigh (Berber) for a marsh, revealing the site’s Berber origins, though it was colonized around the seventh century BC by the Phoenicians, a seafaring people from what is now Lebanon. In 42 AD, the Romans made Tingis the capital of their newly created province of Mauretania Tingitania (roughly the north of modern Morocco). In 429 AD, with the collapse of the Roman Empire’s western half, Tangier was taken by the Vandals, after which point things become a bit hazy. It seems to have been regained a century or so later by the Roman Empire’s resurgent eastern half in the form of the Byzantines, before falling to Spain’s rulers, the Visigoths, in the early seventh century.

Andalusian and European Influence

In 707, Tangier was taken by the Arabs, who used it as a base for their invasion of the Iberian Peninsula four years later. However, with the Christian reconquest of Spain and Portugal from the eleventh to fifteenth centuries, Tangier was itself vulnerable to attack from across the Straits, and eventually fell to the Portuguese in 1471. In 1661, they gave it to the British (along with Bombay) as part of Princess Catherine of Braganza’s dowry on her wedding to Charles II. Tangier’s Portuguese residents, accusing British troops of looting and rape, abandoned the town, but new settlers arrived, many of them Jewish refugees from Spain, and Britain granted the city a charter guaranteeing freedom of religion, trade and immigration. The British also introduced tea, now Morocco’s national drink. Under virtually constant siege, however, they found Tangier an expensive and unrewarding possession. Moulay Ismail laid siege to the city in 1678, and in 1680, England’s parliament refused any further funding to defend it. Four years later, unable to withstand the siege any longer, the British abandoned Tangier. The city then remained in Moroccan hands until the twentieth century, growing in importance as a port – one of its exports, mandarins, even took their name from the city, being known in Europe as tangerines.

Tangier’s strategic position made it a coveted prize for all the colonial powers at the end of the nineteenth century. European representatives started insinuating themselves into the administration of the city, taking control of vital parts of the infrastructure, and when France and Spain decided to carve up Morocco between them, Britain insisted that Tangier should become an International Zone, with all Western powers having an equal measure of control. This was agreed as early as 1905, and finalized by treaty in 1923. An area of 380 square kilometres, with some 150,000 inhabitants, the International Zone was governed by a Legislative Assembly headed by a representative of the sultan called the Mendoub. While legislative power rested with the assembly – consisting of 27 members of whom 18 were European – the real power was held by a French governor.

Morocco takes control

At the International Zone’s peak in the early 1950s, Tangier’s foreign communities numbered sixty thousand – then nearly half the population. As for the other half, pro-independence demonstrations in 1952 and 1953 made it abundantly clear that most Tanjawis (natives of Tangier) wanted to be part of a united, independent Morocco. When they gained their wish in 1956, Tangier lost its special status, and almost overnight, the finance and banking businesses shifted their operations to Spain and Switzerland. The expatriate communities dwindled too as the new national government imposed bureaucratic controls and instituted a “clean-up” of the city. Brothels – previously numbering almost a hundred – were banned, and in the early 1960s “The Great Scandal” erupted, sparked by a number of paedophile convictions and escalating into a wholesale closure of the once outrageous gay bars.

Tangier today

After a period of significant decline, the early 2000s saw Tangier reborn as one of the country’s premier beach holiday resorts as both the Moroccan government and foreign investors directed more interest (and more funds) towards the city and its future. Marketed mainly towards the domestic market as well as day-tripping Spaniards, Tangier’s regeneration shows no sign of fading. Construction work began in 2011 on a five-year project that will eventually see the old port transformed into a glitzy residential marina complete with designer shops and a five-star hotel.

The layout within Tangier’s Medina, like most throughout Morocco, was never planned in advance. As the need arose, a labyrinth of streets and small squares emerged that eventually became the various quarters there today.

Looking at it today, the Petit Socco, or Zoco Chico (Little Market), seems too small ever to have served such a purpose, though up until the nineteenth century the square was almost twice its present size, and it was only at the beginning of the twentieth century that the hotels and cafés were built. Up until the 1930s, when the focus moved to the Ville Nouvelle, this was the true heart of Tangier, and a broad mix of people – Christians, Jews and Muslims, Moroccans, Europeans and Americans – would gather here daily.

In the heyday of the “International City”, with easily exploited Arab and Spanish sexuality a major attraction, it was in the alleys behind the Socco that the straight and gay brothels were concentrated. William Burroughs used to hang out around the square: “I get averages of ten very attractive propositions a day”, he wrote to Allen Ginsberg. The Socco cafés lost much of their appeal at independence, when the sale of alcohol was banned in the Medina, but they remain diverting places to sit around, people-watch, talk and get some measure of the Medina.

Sprawling westwards and southwards from the ancient Medina is the European-built Ville Nouvelle. Much of its architecture and layout, especially immediately outside the Medina, is of Spanish origin, reflecting the influence of the city’s large Spanish population during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

The Grand Socco is the obvious place to start a ramble around the town. Its name, like so many in Tangier, is a French–Spanish hybrid, proclaiming its origins as the main market square. The markets have since long gone, but the square remains a meeting place and its cafés make good spots to soak up the city’s life. The Grand Socco’s official but little-used name, Place du 9 Avril 1947, commemorates the visit of Sultan Mohammed V to the city on that date – an occasion when, for the first time and at some personal risk, he identified himself with the struggle for Moroccan independence.

A memorial to this event (in Arabic) is to be found amid the Mendoubia gardens, flanking the square, which enclose the former offices of the Mendoub – the sultan’s representative during the international years – and now home to the local Chamber of Commerce. Here there’s also a spectacular banyan tree, said to be over 800 years old. Essentially now an open grassed area, the gardens are popular with local families who enjoy the small playground.

Malcolm Forbes: Tangier’s last tycoon

The American publishing tycoon Malcolm Forbes bought the Dar el Mendoub, Rue Mohammed Tazi, in 1970. His reason, ostensibly at least, was the acquisition of a base for launching and publishing an Arab-language version of Forbes Magazine – the “millionaires’ journal”. For the next two decades, until his death in 1990, he was a regular visitor to the city, and it was at Dar el Mendoub that he decided to host his last great extravagance, his seventieth birthday party, in 1989.

This was the grandest social occasion Tangier had seen since the days of Woolworths heiress Barbara Hutton, whose scale and spectacle Forbes presumably intended to emulate and exceed. Spending an estimated $2.5m, he brought in his friend Elizabeth Taylor as co-host and chartered a 747, a DC-8 and Concorde to fly in eight hundred of the world’s rich and famous from New York and London. The party entertainment was on an equally imperial scale, including six hundred drummers, acrobats and dancers, and a fantasia – a cavalry charge which ends with the firing of muskets into the air – by three hundred Berber horsemen.

Forbes’s party was a mixed public relations exercise, with even the gossip press feeling qualms about such a display of American affluence in a country like Morocco. However, Forbes most likely considered the party a success, for his guests included not just the celebrity rich – Gianni Agnelli, Robert Maxwell, Barbara Walters, Henry Kissinger – but half a dozen US state governors and the chief executives or presidents of scores of multinational corporations likely to advertise in his magazine. And, of course, it was tax deductible.

After Forbes’s death, Dar el Mendoub passed into the hands of the state and was used to house personal guests of King Hassan II, before being converted into a museum. It has now reverted back to being a VIP residence for royal and state guests.

Discover more places in Morocco

• Travel Guide Morocco
• Travel Guide Namibia
• Travel Guide South Africa
• Travel Guide China
• Travel Guide India
• Travel Guide Indonesia
• Travel Guide Japan
• Travel Guide Laos
• Travel Guide Malaysia
• Travel Guide Myanmar (Burma)
• Travel Guide Nepal
• Travel Guide Philippines
• Travel Guide Singapore
• Travel Guide South Korea
• Travel Guide Sri Lanka
• Travel Guide Taiwan
• Travel Guide Thailand
• Travel Guide Australia
• Travel Guide Fiji
• Travel Guide New Zealand
• Travel Guide Belize
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• Travel Guide Cuba
• Travel Guide Guatemala
• Travel Guide Honduras
• Travel Guide Jamaica
• Travel Guide Nicaragua
• Travel Guide Panama
• Travel Guide Puerto Rico
• Travel Guide Trinidad and Tobago
• Travel Guide Albania
• Travel Guide Austria
• Travel Guide Belgium
• Travel Guide Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Travel Guide Bulgaria
• Travel Guide Cyprus
• Travel Guide Czechia (Czech Republic)
• Travel Guide Denmark
• Travel Guide England
• Travel Guide Estonia
• Travel Guide Finland
• Travel Guide France
• Travel Guide Germany
• Travel Guide Greece
• Travel Guide Hungary
• Iceland Travel Guide

The Rough Guides to Morocco and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Morocco?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Tangier Travel Guide - Read the perfect guide to travel in Morocco Tangier City

Tangier, morocco is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. explore the real morocco with an authentic guide to tangier's tourism and culture. learn about its traditions, history, religion, and much more.

In this article, we explore how to go about traveling to Tangier City and what it offers in terms of activities, sights, and attractions. We also share some useful tips on how to get around and where you should stay during your trip.

Tangier Morocco Travel - The perfect guide to Tanger City

Welcome to this comprehensive guide to Tangier , Morocco. Tangier is a city with a lot to offer, from bustling souks to luxurious hotels.

We've written this Tangier Travel Guide to help you to know places to visit in Tangier and avoid the tourist traps and see the best of Tangier if you are planning a Tarifa to Tangier Day trip or Seville to Tangier day trip .

Find out what to expect on your trip with our guide. Tangier is a city with a rich history and culture. We want to share Tangier's hidden treasures and help you get to know the city better.

A brief history of Tangier 

Tangier is an ancient city on the northern coast of Morocco.

It´s located on the opposite side of the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain at 17 miles away. Inhabited since prehistoric times, it is a multicultural city with an intriguing history.

Tangier was an important trading port during antiquity. Later became a significant naval base for Spain and Portugal.

Tangier was an independent city with its flag during the Moroccan colonisation period. It was a cosmopolitan city with different sectors managed by the Moroccan Sultan.

Tangier became a hub for international business people, and adventurers during the Cold War. But, despite its wealth, Tangier's economy suffered. 

The city was plagued also by spies , street hustlers, and a Spanish regime.

Morocco did not even govern for most of its history, and its eccentric inhabitants included also artists. 

It was a semi-independent international zone for years, and it was the subject of a negative reputation.

But, it is one of the absolutely most attractive places on Earth, and I recommend that you spend a few days here.

Tangier is a beautiful and historic city. The Medina has been preserved and renovated over the years. Too to being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it also has many modern buildings.

Protected by a 15th-century wall, many inhabitants live in The Medina neighbourhoods.

The population European neighbourhoods has declined considerably since integration with Morocco in 1956.

Tangier has been the summer seat of the Moroccan royal residence since 1962. 

Located in the city center, The Old Medina, it's straightforward to find. It's also close to the beach and a short walk from some of the city's best restaurants.

When looking for a home in Tangier, we have several things to consider. One is whether the area has been taken over by new construction or if it's more of an older neighbourhood. Another point of consideration is how close you are to the beach and where precisely that beach is located.

Where is Tangier, the beautiful City of Morocco?

Tangier is the largest city in northern Morocco. It is the country's principal port and a popular tourist destination. Tangier is located on Morocco's Mediterranean coast and was under Spanish rule for about two centuries until France took it in 1956.

If you are planning a holiday in Morocco , you may be wondering, "Where is the city of Tangier?" If so, you have come to the correct place! This colorful city is known for its fascinating souks, aka markets. The Medina is a maze of many narrow streets , each with its unique atmosphere. You can get lost in these alleys or get back to the center by taking a taxi or walking around.

The city has a particularly rich and extensive history, dating back to the 5th century B.C. The city has been home to numerous cultures and civilizations and was considered a strategic Berber town and Phoenician trading center . In 1923, the city was given international status by foreign colonial powers, and it became a popular destination for Europeans, Americans, and diplomats. Many writers have also made Tangier their home.

You can also enjoy a typical Moroccan meal at one of the many riads in the city. The Riads are a great way to experience the culture and lifestyle of the Moroccan people. You can enjoy Moroccan food prepared by locals in a cozy setting. Riads are an excellent choice for tourists on a budget. Hostels can be comfortable and have shared kitchens and bars. Mid-range guesthouses are another option.

You can quickly get to Tangier by train if you're traveling from Casablanca. There is a direct train every day from Casablanca . If you're coming by car, you can purchase a ticket in advance online. Be sure to pay for luggage at the CTM office. Once you arrive in Tangier, you'll be dropped off at the city's central bus station, Place al Jamia al Arabia. From here, you'll need to hire a taxi to get into the city center.

Book Full-Day Trip with Ferry Tarifa to Tangier

Booking a Day Trip From Seville

Tangier Map

This image of Tangier map gives an overview of the geography of Tangier, a city in northern Morocco.

Tangier today. Has the city changed?

Tangier is a city with a rich history , culture and identity. The city has been changing for the past few years, but has it changed as much as people think?

This enchanting city in northern Morocco is an old city with a rich history dating back to the Phoenicians . It was once a significant trading seaport and the gateway to Africa. But today, the city is struggling to keep up with other cities in Morocco.

Tangier has been changing over the past few years, but not as many people say it has changed.

But City Tangier has changed a lot since the 1960s. It's now a much more modern city, with high-rise buildings, shopping centers and restaurants. As a consequence, the city has lost its charm. But, people are still living in Tangier and are still proud to call the city home.

The majority of the population lives in old quarters with very little tourism. There is a lot of Moroccan pride and culture here.

The Old Town (Vieux-Tangier) is where most tourists stay while they visit Tangier . It's best known as "the walled city" because it was built around a rocky hill on which sits an ancient fortress.

As the "NEW TANGIER", Tanger center or the seaport of Tangier is a good example.

Tanja Marina Bay (the port Tangier began construction in March 2010), nestled in the heart of Tangier Bay, now offers the most significant number of berths in Morocco and a range of services that meet international standards.

The new Tangier Marina has a total capacity of more than 1400 berths, divided into two basins: the first one of 774 berths (15 hectares) for boats from 7 to 92 meters long, and the second basin (11 hectares) of 626 berths for boats from 7 to 30 meters long.

The port of Tangier has several catering and entertainment areas, a covered car park (435 places), a yacht club (the Royal Yacht Club of Tangier), a fuel station, shops and other services and equipment available to boaters.

Fuente foto Wikipedia

Planning Your Trip - How to Plan a Trip to Tangier, Morocco

When planning a trip, it is essential to know what to expect.

Before planning your trip to Tangier, you should consider the weather conditions in the city.

Morocco has unpredictable weather . Summers can be excruciatingly hot, but temperatures can also drop considerably nighttime.

It can be hazardous if you plan to camp in the desert. In addition, Morocco's temperatures can fluctuate drastically between morning and midday and after dusk. Winter temperatures can reach zero celsius!

There are several ways to reach Tangier. First, you can fly into Casablanca by air and then catch a ferry that takes between 45-60 minutes to Tangier. Remember to buy a ticket in advance, as some taxi drivers try to charge more than one hundred Moroccan Dirhams for the same journey. You can also take a train from Tangier to Casablanca. The train is the most convenient mode of transportation in Morocco. Moreover, trains are affordable and fast, making them the ideal means of travel between major cities.

If you are staying in the city, plan a day exploring the surrounding areas. You can choose to stay in the city for a few days or use it as a basis for visiting other towns and villages nearby. In most cases, one or two days is sufficient to explore the sights and sounds of Tangier. However, it would be best if you also planned for the number of days you'd like to spend in Tangier.

Potential dangers and advice. Is Tangier safe?

• Tangier is one of the safest cities in Morocco, and there are more risks in any other city. Be vigilant but don't let it ruin your holiday. Similarly, women traveling alone do not encounter any particular problems. You are probably vigilant, taking care to avoid pickpockets in crowded areas. However, it's important to stay cautious of these people specifically to avoid getting into trouble in the first place.
• Although the Medina of Tangier can seem dark and deserted, especially in the popular areas, it is very well supervised. If you have any questions or accidentally get lost, you will always find people to help you. The idea is also to let yourself be guided in the alleys and abandon yourself to them; that's where the good surprises come!
• On the other hand, although few incidents are reported in the evening, avoid walking alone in the Medina or Kasbah.
• Drivers in Tangier are known to be reckless! Watch out when crossing and always have time to brake when you see a car coming. Also, it would be best to be very careful of everyone on the road while traveling, as they tend not to know how traffic signals work.
• However, the locals recommend that women' alone' leave the Medina by ten o'clock at the latest or return to the hotel by taxi.
• Don't risk anything carrying your personal belongings in Tangier. The whole country is rising, but plenty of thieves are still around. So keep your bags within sight or on your person when you're near popular areas!

Places to visit in tangier: Two must-see places to visit in the city Tangier

Morocco is a land of mystery, charm and culture. Choose from two must-see places in Tangier: the Kasbah and the Medina. Kasbah: Explore Morocco's most iconic location with a guided walking tour.

The Kasbah is a large complex of fortifications, buildings and gardens on the hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in Tangier. It is home to timeless architecture, an enchanting view and world-class dining.

THE TANGIER MEDINA

Medina: Moorish architecture, winding streets, decadent palaces and mosques provide an authentic insight into the country's history and culture.

Things to Do in Tangier

If you've never been to Morocco, you might not know that Tangier is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically, this city has served as a strategic route between Africa and Europe since Phoenician times.

Its hillside medina features the Dar el Makhzen palace of the sultans, now a museum of Moroccan art. You can also check out the American Legation Museum, which documents the early diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Morocco.

The museum is in a Moorish-style 1821 former consulate. If you're interested in history, wander the Medina's winding, steeply-piled narrow streets. You'll notice ornate doors leading into private homes.

The whitewashed walls of these dwellings are an impressive sight. There are numerous restaurants and cafes and traditional stores where you can purchase souvenirs or indulge in a delicious meal. You'll be struck by the unique blend of Moroccan and Andalusian culture.

You'll also find Berber women selling fresh fruits and vegetables. You'll also find an interesting mixture of architectural styles and a myriad of shops, bazaars, and restaurants.

Don't be surprised if touts try to trick you! Prepare to haggle down prices if you want to save money. A bit of haggling will go a long way!

Tangier Medina

The city's Medina is a photogenic, exotic destination. The Grand Socco is the iconic entrance to the Medina. It is home to the famous literary quarter, including William Burroughs ,Tennessee Williams, Henri Matisse, and Jack Kerouac. You'll find palm trees, an incredible fountain, and booths with stalls and merchants selling their wares and listen the Tangier sound.

The most popular thing about Tangier is the Medina.

The Medina of Marrakesh is one of the largest and most historic medinas in the country, with origins dating back to 1464. That said, it's almost as if nothing has been restored since then - making it all that much more charming.

The Medina is a tightly-packed, maze-like part of old Moroccan cities that offers a kaleidoscopic scenery.

The main entrance to the Medina is from the 9 April Square, the gateway to the Grand Socco - can be accessed from Semmerine Street- where a white concrete archway welcomes visitors to the Medina in a completely local style.

In Morocco, there are spaces for shops, people, and animals when you enter the Medina. Many farmers sell vegetables they grow themselves, their crops and animals there, and you can feel the essence of the Medina before you enter the depths of their markets. You rarely get mugged as a tourist in this area.

Sometimes Moroccans ask if they can be your tour guide. The best thing to do is to be frank and firm in your tone, telling them that you prefer to visit the city and that this is not your first trip to Tangier.

The Medina is probably Tangier's most popular tourist attraction. With its narrow, winding streets, houses resplendent with decorative paintings and dozens (or hundreds) of arabesque doors, it does seem like another world. As well as being inhabited by locals, some of them are highly recommended craft shops that are well worth a visit.

A good idea after this first visit is to arrive via As-Siaghin Street is to stop and buy snails. It is one of the products that you can find most often when strolling through the Medina of Tangier.

There are many street vendors selling snails. Anyone who likes to eat them should not hesitate to try them at several stalls because each one has, like Seville, a special flavour.

The price of these street stalls is always low. In addition to the snails, some of the stalls offer chickpeas and some vegetables.

The Medina was featured in James Bond episodes and spy fiction. However, the city today has a thriving arts and cultural scene.

In The Medina, visitors can experience this vibrant place's past and present side.

Tangier, Tetouan, Chefchaouen, Assilah and Larache are known for their preserved medinas, which provide visitors a rich heritage. These architectural marvels are packed with historical sights and on-going cultural excitement.

Tangier Grand Socco

Tangier Petit Socco

The Old Kasbah

Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures

Tangier American Legation Museum

Visiting the Church of Saint Andrew in Tangier, Morocco

Tangier cinemas - café cinéma rif.

The Tangier Nahon Synagogue

Visit the museum de la fondation lorin in tangier.

Phoenician Tombs in Tangier

Visit the Caves of Hercules Tangier morocco

Tangier Teatro Cervantes

Sour Al Maâgazine

Ville nouvelle of tangier, best riads to stay in tangier.

Riads are traditional Moroccan houses filled with art, color and style. The intricate design of the riads is what makes them special. They offer a home away from home for travelers seeking a unique Moroccan experience. They can be found in major tourist destinations, with some even offering free WiFi and breakfast. The design of these buildings is what makes them stand out from other hotels or homes.

They often have intricate designs that follow the tradition of Moroccan architecture and come with all the living amenities one might need to live comfortably while traveling.

Dar Nakhla Naciria

Dar Nakhla Naciria is a short walk from Tangier's historic Congress Palace & Casbah, while the restaurant can provide stunning views of the breathtaking Mediterranean. It is also just a 12-minute drive from Malabata Beach.

Riad Dar Saba - House of Saba

Situated in Tangier, just less than 1 km from the American Legation Museum, Riad Dar Saba - Casa de Saba offers air-conditioned rooms. There is also a shared lounge for guests, and parking is available.

Dar Sami, Riad Bab

This riad is located in Tangier, 1.5 km from Tangier Beach and 200 metres from Dar el Makhzen. It provides accommodation with free Wi-Fi, is fully air-conditioned and has a shared lounge. The flats have a private bathroom with a shower.

Dar Chams Tanja

Dar Chams Tanja offers excellent views of Tangier Bay and the Strait of Gibraltar. The guest house is located near the souks and has a hammam.

Dar Sultan is conveniently located next to Tangier's most popular beaches, making it an excellent choice for both young travellers and families on holiday. It is also just a short walk from the city centre, making it easy to get around.

Located in Tangier's medina, Riad Dar Nour offers an outdoor terrace and a massage room. It also has free access to public Wi-Fi and offers guided tours.

Dar Yasmine

Dar Yasmine is a restaurant offering free Wi-Fi. It is located in the city of Tangier, Morocco.

Riad Slama, located in Tangier, Morocco, offers a wide range of services. They provide room service, including a terrace, and offer the option to enjoy one of their many swimming pools or penthouses.

Riad Tingis

Located in Tangier, 1.1 km from Tangier Beach, Riad Tingis offers air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace in Tangier. The property is 2.9 km from Malabata, 1.9 km from American Legation Museum and 2.9 km from Tanger City Shopping Centre.

Riad Mokhtar

Riad Mokhtar offers a sun terrace and views of the sea. It is 5 km from Marjane Supermarket in Tangier. This riad has TVs in each room to see favourite programmes or enjoy a good conversation with friends.

Tangier Hotels

In tangier, Morocco, the hotels are always synonymous with a good atmosphere. Surrounded by lively cafés and restaurants and just a stone's throw from the beach, many are perfect for a good stay.

Barceló Tangier

You will find everything you need at the Barceló Tangier, a four-star hotel in Tangier. This hotel has 138 spacious rooms, a large outdoor swimming pool and quality service. If you don't want to go out for lunch or dinner, there is also a cafeteria, a snack bar, a restaurant and even a pub. If you prefer the beach to the large swimming pool, it won't take you more than two minutes to get to the sand.

Hotel Farah Tanger

Hotel Farah Tanger is a hotel in Morocco. Hotel Farah Tanger has many rooms with comfortable beds, and a swimming pool. The hotel also has a restaurant with food that tastes like home but is made on the spot. The staff at Hotel Farah Tanger try very hard to make your stay happy, safe, and memorable.

Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel & Residences

A Hilton is a hotel chain that offers rooms, suites, and luxury accommodations all over the world. Sometimes this is called “a five star hotel”. The Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel & Residences is a four-star large resort in Morocco with many different types of rooms to choose from when you stay there.

Mövenpick Hotel & Casino Malabata Tanger

Mövenpick Hotel & Casino Malabata Tanger is a hotel located in Tangier, Morocco. The hotel has 414 rooms, a spa, and an indoor swimming pool. There is also extensive gardens around the building.

El Minzah Hotel Tangier

El Minzah hotel is a luxury resort located in Tangier, Morocco. El Minzah hotels are known for their elegant architecture, marbled entrances and interior corridors, and marble-clad pools strewn with sunbeds on which to rest. El Minzah Hotels are often the scene of lavish balls and other social events.

Royal Tulip City Center Tangier

Luxury hotel. Lovely property. Great breakfast. Very popular for couples. 

Grand Mogador Sea View & Spa Tangier

The grand Mogador Sea View & Spa Tangier is a hotel in the city of Tangier, Morocco. Grand Mogador Sea View & Spa Tangier provides lodging and services to travelers and their companions at an affordable price.

Tangier Restaurants

One of the world's oldest cities, Tangier is not only a destination for visitors but also for chefs. The city is home to some of the best Moroccan cuisine in the world, and has become a popular destination for foodies from around the world.

Tangier is well-known for its fusion of cultures and cuisine, which makes it a popular hotspot for foodies. The city is home to some of the best Moroccan cuisine in the world, with many restaurants boasting authentic flavors as well as creative takes on traditional dishes

Restaurant Bachir

Family oriented restaurant. The value for money was excellent. Amazing seafood, very fresh and tasty. Very reasonably priced. We went there several times for lunch. Most of the staff only speak Arabic, but it was easy to communicate and order food even if we did not. The menus are also in English. No alcohol. We suggested that you visit this place before. It has really friendly staff, a clean place and tons of hearty food for low prices. Definitely recommended! You should definitely try the Harira for starters and the kebabs for dessert. Rue Zyriabe, Tangier 90000 Morocco. +212 642-287939

Chez Hassan Bab Kasbah

Moroccan Mediterranean Vegetarian Friendly.A good restaurant experience in Morocco, recommended by our riad host for lunch. We liked it so much that we ate there for dinner too. The kefta is really good, but what stole the show for me was the grilled squid. I would eat it every day if I could. The waiter is a very nice guy, and Hassan is an extremely nice man too. I had the vegetable tagine and it was very delicious. The homemade chilli is absolutely amazing. A must try when you are in Tangier! The food is quite good and inexpensive. 8 Rue de la Kasbah, Tangier 90000 Morocco

La Terrasse Dar El Kasbah

Authentic Moroccan food is a delicacy not to be missed. With stunning flavors and spices that are impossible to find elsewhere, you really need to try this glorious cuisine. 12 Bis Rue de la Kasbah, Tangier Morocco.+212 661-882408.

Tradicional moroccan cousine is the must-have dish in a Moroccan restaurant. It is traditionally served in a tagine, which is a large clay pot with a high conical lid. The couscous is slow cooked while the meat and vegetables are slowly simmered in an aromatic blend of herbs and spices until they are fork tender. Live music. Rue Goethe Je Ibn Ajroum résidence jade, Tangier 90000 Morocco +212 668-120234 .

Restaurant Hammadi

A fancy Moroccan restaurant in the Medina, Hammadi is a cheap and good restaurant. The chicken-olive and lamb-lead tagine were tasty. The musicians were playful and funny. A good place to have a good time. 2 Rue de la Kasbah, Tangier 90000 Morocco+212 5399-34514

Le Bistro du Petit Socco

The Moroccan food is simple and basic but, served with a view of a square from the first floor and surrounded by lovely people, it is also one of the best places to eat in the Rue de la Marine. A magical location, the rooftop offers a list of delicious dishes to enjoy. Rue de la Marine, Tangier 90000 Morocco +212 627-337509.

Top tea terraces in Tangier, Morocco

• Morocco Palace
• Café a la Anglaise (Rue de la Kasbah, 37)
• Gran Cafe de Paris

Cafe Hafa is a popular cafe in Tangier. It is located right by the beach and offers both food and drinks. The cafe also has a nice view of the ocean, making it a great spot to watch the sunset with friends. Locals and tourists like to come here after a long day of shopping and wandering around the city. The coffee is delicious, they have mouth-watering pastries, and it's close to local shops making it easy to grab lunch before heading back out.This cafe is a great place to relax and enjoy the view. There are sofas, tables and chairs outside where you can sit and have tea or coffee in the afternoon sun. This cafe is also known for its delectable desserts which are made by by local Moroccan pastry chefs. It's a lovely stroll through a calm neighborhood but be warned that it is mostly uphill.

Morocco Tangier Beach

A trip to Tangier's famed beaches is an absolute must. If you haven't been here yet, I suggest you do so.

Tangier Beach is the most beautiful place on Earth. It is a small, white-sand beach in Morocco. The water is crystal clear and the sand is soft and warm.

The beach has a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and cliffs, which provide a natural barrier to the Atlantic Ocean. It has a serene atmosphere with no high-rise hotels or tourist attractions nearby, which makes it an ideal spot for relaxation.

The best way to enjoy Tangier Beach is to wake up early and walk out barefoot on the sand and wash off in the sea before the crowds come. The best times for this are early morning or late evening. Remember that you'll need water shoes and towels since most of the sand is covered with shells, which can get uncomfortable if they get.

Tangier Markets

• La Fine Bouche
• The Market on Rue de Fes

Famous People In Tangier

from Delacroix to Bacon, William Burroughs and the rolling stones Burroughs, George Orwell, Henri Matisse and the rock band rolling stones William Buroughs,  Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, Paul Bowles, Tennessee Williams, The rolling stones, and many others have stopped by Café Hafa for a mint tea to enjoy a bit of kif and look out over the Mediterranean to Spain

The 3 most beautiful Tangier Bookstores

There's a plethora of bookstores in Tangier that cater to every budget and taste. There are bookstores that sell new, rare, vintage books and others that sell only used or second-hand books. Some are old-school, small and quaint while others are large, modern and lavish.

• LPMarocaine - Moroccan Bookstore 3 Rue de Fès +212 5399-32482
• Mexique Bookshop Rue du Mexique +212 80-8545879
• Les Insolites 28 Khalid Ibn El Oualid +212 5393-71367

How to get to Tangier Morocco

How to get to Tangier Morocco. Tangier is one destination that can be reached via ferry from Tarifa. The ferries take about thirty minutes to cross and are very popular with travelers. Another option for getting to Morocco is from Algeciras to Tangier. It is also possible to fly from different airports or drive from Seville or Cádiz and get there.

Getting to Tangier from the Airport

How much distance km have between seville to tangier.

Seville is in southern Spain and Tangier is in northern Morocco at the Mediterranean Sea. The distance between Seville and Tangier is 1000 Km.

How many kilometres is the distance Tarifa to Tangier

The distance between the two cities of Tarifa and Tangier is 919 kilometres.

How many kilometres is the distance Tangier to Casablanca

The distance from Tangier to Casablanca is approximately 1,000 kilometres. For more information on the distance from Tangier to Casablanca, please reference Google Maps.

How many kilometres is the distance Tangier to Gibraltar

The distance between Tangier and Gibraltar is 6,939 kilometres. It's a long but worthwhile trip.

Distance from tangier to Marrakech

The distance between the cities of Tangier and Marrakech is almost 1,800 miles. Traveling from Tangier to Marrakech takes about 21 hours.

How many kilometres is the distance Tangier to Chefchaouen

Tangier is a city in Morocco with a population of 1,300,000 people. Chefchaouen is a city in Morocco with a population of 350,000 people. The distance between the two cities is 228 km.

How many kilometres is the distance Tangier to Spain

Spain is approximately 4,715 kilometres from Tangier.

Flying to Tangier

How can i get to tangier by train.

The railway from Tangier to Fez and Casablanca was completed in 1891, but it took another 20 years for trains to reach all of the other cities along the route. In order to get there by train, you must first travel from Marrakech or Rabat through Casablanca and then on to Tangier.

From France, getting to Tangier by train is not as difficult as it may sound. The French national railway company, SNCF, offers many different types of trains throughout the year that can take you from anywhere in France to Tangier and Casablanca with "Ligne à Grande Vitesse" (LGV) .

Bus to Tangier

The bus to Tangier is a new ferry service that connects the city of Tangier, Morocco to the Spanish-controlled enclave of Ceuta in North Africa. The service began operating on May 1st, 2017 and runs twice daily between Tangier and Ceuta.

Tarifa to tangier Ferry: Geetting Tangier by Ferry

The Tangier Ferry Terminal is located in the city of Tangier, Morocco. It is a major ferry port for ferries to Spain and Portugal. The terminal has three docks: one for cars, one for trucks, and one for buses. Ferries depart from each dock every 30 minutes and can take up to two hours or more to get across the Strait of Gibraltar into Spain. Click here if you want a Tarifa to Tangier day trip with Ferry tarifa Tanger

Travel Experiences to Tangier and Best Day trips

Tangier is the perfect place to explore Morocco's culture and cuisine. With its port, diverse architecture, and rich history, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time

• https://www.labelleseville.com/en/daytrips/seville-to-tangier-day-trip/
• https://www.labelleseville.com/en/daytrips/tangier-from-seville-in-2-days/
• https://www.labelleseville.com/en/private-tours/seville-to-tangier-1-day-trip-private/
• Visit Cap Spartel
• Travel Tangier to Casablanca
• Day trip to Ceuta from Tangier
• Travel Larache From Tangier
• Ruins of Cotta
• Visit Tower Al Kamra ou Borj Al Kamra 
• Ruins of Lixus
• Day Trip to Chefchaouen

The most popular thing about Tangier is the Medina. If you want visit Tangier, we have 2 day trips from Seville to Tangier

Living the best moments : top essential sensations if you travel to Tangier

When you leave Tangier, you will leave with beautiful images and unforgettable memories. You will feel that you have made a journey that enriches both the person and the soul.

Tangier, known as a multicultural enclave, has long been considered a point of attraction for many artists and writers from around the world at different times. They were attracted by its climate, its landscapes and its "quirky" side.

People who visit the city today have fallen in love with its streets, its people and its excellence. You will be able to enjoy the cultural and historical offer of this ancient international city, but also one of the most important in Morocco.

When one thinks of Morocco, one thinks first of all of Tangier's Medina , the souk and the handicrafts. Tangier, a very touristic city, is no exception to the rule. Therefore, after seeing the caves, you will have the opportunity to see the souk and the Medina of the city. By discovering the souks of Tangier, you will undoubtedly immerse yourself in the authentic soul of the city.

You will undoubtedly be surprised by the interesting mix of modern buildings with narrow streets and typical houses. You will be able to take a unique photo worthy of the most beautiful postcards.

Our trip to a city with a multicultural flavor, combining North African and Southern European culture, is perfect for those who wish to learn more about the remarkable Moroccan culture.

Together we will visit the most important places of the Moroccan city.

Among them, we find first of all the Caves of Hercules, which have been a tourist attraction since 1920.

The Caves of Hercules

The caves are natural limestone caverns that open to the sea and into which the sea slides at high tide. They are located about ten kilometers from Tangier. Its name comes from ancient mythology. According to it, Hercules, Greek demigod and son of Zeus, took refuge there before stealing the golden apples, offered by Zeus to Hera, but stolen by the Hesperides.

Tangier Souks and Moroccan Gastronomy

The closer you get to the heart of the souks, the narrower and more mysterious the alleys become. If you feel like it, you can do some shopping in some of them. When you arrive in the Medina, you will have the opportunity to stroll through its streets or along the promenade. You will also have the opportunity to taste the delicious Moroccan gastronomy in some of its most typical restaurants.

Moroccan cuisine is a Mediterranean cuisine characterized by its variety of dishes coming mainly from the Berber cuisine, although it also has Arab, Jewish and Andalusian influences. You probably won't be able to resist couscous, tajine or pastilla.

   Best Seville Guided Tours - Seville private tours

    290 €   

Seville 4-hour Private Tour – Half-day sightseeing tour of Seville

   Glorieta Bécquer - Seville private tours

    50 €   

Guided Tour Ibero-American Exhibition Seville of 1929

   Day Trips - One day trips

    149 €   

Stay in Doñana and El Rocio from Seville 2 days and 1 night

   Doñana - Half day trips

    25 €   

Doñana National Park 4×4 Southern Area Tour from el Rocio

   Day Trips - Tangier

Seville to Tangier Day Trip – Day in Tangier & Morocco (book with labelleseville.com)

   Day Trips - Half day trips

    35 €   

Carmona from Seville Half Day Trip – Book your trip!

• Summary of the privacy policy
• Cookies strictly necessary
• Cookies tiers
• Others Cookies

Basic Data Protection Information

Controller : Labelleseville.com Purpose : Online services User experience : Information and commercial communication Legal bases : Express consent and legitimate interest Recipients : No data is transferred to third parties, except legal obligation. Rights : You have the right to request from us access to and recti cation or erasure of your personal data, the right to restrict processing, object to processing as well as in certain circumstances the right to data portability.

At labelleseville.com we work to offer you the best possible experience through our products and services. In some cases, it is necessary to collect information in order to achieve this. We care about your privacy and believe we should be transparent about it.

For this reason, and for the purposes of the provisions of REGULATION (EU) 2016/679 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 27 April 2016 (hereinafter “RGPD”) on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and Law 34/2002, of 11 July, on Information Society Services and Electronic Commerce (hereinafter, “LSSI”), labelleseville.com informs the user that, as the party responsible for processing, it will incorporate the personal data provided by users in an automated file.

Our commitment begins by explaining the following:

• 1) Your data is collected so that the user’s experience improves, attending to your interests and needs.
• 2) We are transparent in relation to the data we obtain about you and the reason why we do so.
• 3) Our intention is to offer you the best possible experience. Therefore, when we are going to use your personal information, we will always do so in compliance with the regulations, and when necessary, we will ask for your consent.
• 4) We understand that your details belong to you. Therefore, if you decide not to allow us to process them, you can ask us to stop processing them.
• 5) Our priority is to guarantee your security and to treat your data in accordance with European regulations.
• 6) If you would like more information about how your data will be treated, please refer to the different sections of the privacy policy in policy page:

labelleseville.com has appointed a Data Protection Delegate or an internal contact person within your organization. If you wish to make a query regarding the processing of your personal data, you can contact us by email at [email protected]

This option must be activated at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.The storage or technical access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.

If you deactivate this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that each time you visit this site, you will have to enable or disable cookies again.

Storage or technical access which is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a request, voluntary compliance by your Internet service provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved solely for this purpose cannot be used to identify you.

This site uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us improve our website.

Please activate the strictly necessary cookies first so that we can save your preferences. !

Technical storage or access is necessary to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or on several websites for similar marketing purposes. This site uses the following additional cookies : Google Ads. Google Tag Manager. Facebook Pixel

Best Things to do in Tangier Morocco

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: December 20, 2023

Home >> Destinations >> Africa >> Morocco Travel Guide >> Best Things to do in Tangier Morocco

From the waterfront, on a good day, you can see from Tangier Morocco to Gibraltar, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean.

Discover the Best Things to do in Tangier

Table of Contents

Things to do in Tangier Morocco Quick Guide

• Explore the Tangier Kasbah

See the Rock of Gibraltar from Bab Haha Gate

• Visit Musee de la Kasbah
• Sip Mint Tea at Cafe Baba’s in the Kasbah and discover the small cafe’s most famous customers.
• Go Shopping in the Souks
• Shop Up A Storm With a Private Tangier Shopping Guide

Explore the Tangier Medina

• Soak up the Vibe at Gran Café de Paris

Indulge at the Famous El Minzah Hotel

• Visit Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules
• Take a Camel Ride on Tangier Beach
• Enjoy Sidi Kacem Beach and Lunch at L’Ocean Restaurant
• Take a Day Trip From Tangier to Chefchaouen

Plan Your Perfect Morocco Itinerary 

A guide to the Best Places to Visit in Morocco loaded with useful Morocco travel tips.

Tangier Morocco Travel Guide

Where is tangier.

Tangier is in northwestern Morocco on the Maghreb coast; the capital of the Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region , and the Tangier-Assilah prefecture of Morocco.

Guarding the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Spartel, Tangier has for centuries been Europes’s gateway to Africa.

Stay Safe in Morocco: The Best Travel Safety Tips & Anti Theft Travel Guides

We’ve got you covered with great travel safety tips and the best anti-theft travel gear so you can relax while you travel.

About Tangier Morocco

Europes’ gateway to Africa; Tangier. A classic port town with an international, cross-cultural influence unique in Morocco. An interesting mix of North African, Spanish, Portuguese and French.

However, it’s not just a fascinating cultural landscape that makes Tangier one of the best cities to visit in Morocco.

The allure of Tangier’s literary and artistic past, coupled with a reputation for being an international haven for spies continues to invoke a sense of exotic mystery.

Wondering What to Pack for Morocco? Packing List for Morocco – Whether you are exploring the souks in Marrakech, riding a camel through the Sahara or hiking the Atlas Mountains. We’ve got you covered with what to pack for Morocco.

History of Tangier – The Tangier International Zone

Due to its position on the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier was considered too significant to be controlled by any single country.

So, from the mid-’20s to the late ’50s the city was deemed a semi-independent international zone.

Tangier became a cosmopolitan mecca for eccentrics, spies and artists.

A Place of Pilgrimage for Famous Artists

The city was a place of pilgrimage for artists and Beat Writers during the ’50s and ’60s. William Burroughs wrote Naked Lunch in Tangier during the 1950s at the Hotel El-Muniria.

William S. Burroughs, George Orwell, Matisse, Tennessee Williams, Allen Ginsberg, and Jack Kerouac are just some of the famous artists who also called Tangier home at one time or another.

Not surprisingly, Tangier was also a playground for gamblers, crooks, and millionaires.

New Tangier

Far removed from its seedy past of international espionage, sleaze, and hustle, contemporary Tangier is reinventing itself.

In addition to foreign investment, King Mohammed VI has shown a keen interest in making Tangier a world-class, high-end tourist destination.

A new luxury port next to the ancient Tangier medina aims to attract the wealthy Mediterranean yachting scene.

Restoration of the old medina is taking place as well as beautification projects of the city boulevards.

New shopping malls, hotels, and resorts are emerging, and new high-speed train service will reduce travel from Casablanca to Tangier from five to two hours.

Tangier is set to buzz and thrive again as it did during the heady times of the “Interzone”.

Is Tangier Safe?

Overall, Moroccans are friendly and honest, and Tangier is a relatively safe city. Probably the biggest issue is tenacious touts and con-men trying to overcharge you.

You will mostly encounter this around the main tourist areas of the medina and along the beachfront promenade. Be firm but polite and move on.

Engaging with them will only encourage the touts to pursue you, and some vendors can become quite aggressive.

Beware of Fake Guides

As with Fez, be wary of fake guides. These friendly locals will start to accompany you and give you a tour of the town. They will stay with you for as long as you allow and then demand money for their time.

Some fake guides will take your money then leave you stranded. Always hire guides through reputable sources such as hotels or authorised tour companies.

Pickpockets in Tangier

As with most crowded tourist areas in Morocco, pickpockets and petty thieves will be common. Try not to carry too many valuables and keep only a minimum of cash on hand.

You can find out more on how to keep your valuables safe when you travel .

What to Wear in Tangier Morocco

Much like Casablanca , Tangier is one of the more progressive cities of Morocco, so it is quite acceptable to see foreign women without head coverings.

However, it is not so acceptable to see foreign women in overly revealing clothing.

Trying to blend in will go a long way to getting a good reception from locals and staying safe by not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist.

You can read more here about how to blend in and dress like a local when you travel.

Much like anywhere in the world, common sense is advised. Always consider what personal safety precautions might be appropriate for the situation such as crowded medina’s or walking on your own at night.

Where to Stay in Tangier Morocco

We have stayed in a combination of apartments as well as hotels and riads while in Morocco.

In Tangier, we stayed in a newly refurbished two-bedroom, two bathrooms, self-contained apartment in the  City Bleu Tanger Apartment complex  overlooking the main port area.

Expect around €50/night for an apartment of this size.

We have also stayed with Riad Arous Chamel in the middle of the medina. In addition to the main hotel-style riad, Riad Arous Chamel offers a sperate self-contained riad style house which was two bedrooms, one bathroom with a roof terrace overlooking the beach, perfect for four adults.

Expect around €65/night for the self-contained house.

Accommodation in Tangier is very reasonably priced, and there are plenty of well priced self-contained apartments for rent as an alternative to a traditional hotel.

There is also a good selection of hotels and resorts to suit everything from budget to luxury.

Find The Best Accommodation Deals for Tangier Here

Whether you’ve caught the ferry from Spain to Tangier for a day trip, or, are on your last stop in Morocco en route to Europe. There’s plenty to do and see in Tangier.

Here are some of the best things to do in Tangier Morocco.

Visit the Tangier Kasbah

At the highest point of Tangier, overlooking the city and the bay of Tangier is the Tangier Kasbah. One of the oldest districts of Tangier, the Kasbah is a picturesque area of whitewashed houses and stunning panoramas.

Spend an hour or so wandering around the Kasbah, exploring its brightly coloured tangle of streets. A map near the Bab Haha gate highlights the best self-guided walking path.

From the Bab Haha Gate on a clear day, you can see the famous Rock of Gibraltar.

Musee de la Kasbah

Visit Musee de la Kasbah; the 17th-century former Sultans Palace; Dar el Makhzen. The museum boasts a selection of mosaics, Moroccan artworks and artefacts. It is also worth a visit for the beautiful buildings and gardens.

Entry: Approx 20 Dirhams. Opening times vary according to the season.

The Famous Clientele of Cafe Baba in the Tangier Kasbah

For over 75 years, the unassuming Cafe Baba in the Tangier Kasbah was the place where many high profile visitors to Tangier went to sip tea or smoke hashish.

The Rolling Stones were customers when they holed up in Tangier while awaiting a verdict of drug charges in the UK.

Cafe Baba’s smoke what you like policy and the international clientele of expat intellectuals, artists and rock stars appealed to the band who frequented the old fisherman’s cafe. A scene the owner referred to as “Clever Hippies”.

The Tangier Kasbah and Cafe Baba’s has been a hangout for all walks of life including royalty, dignitaries, rock legends and famous filmmakers.

Shopping in the Souks

Souk shopping is an essential activity in Morocco. Understandably, anyone who has been to Marrakech may feel they have shopped the souk of all souks, but this doesn’t mean you should miss the Tangiers souks.

Thursdays and Sundays are the most popular days for locals to shop at the souks.

In addition to the usual sensory overload of fresh produce and livestock one expects from a souk, these are the days traditional Berber women will come to the city from the Rif mountains to sell their fresh produce and homemade wares.

The perfect time to be on the lookout for a unique keepsake from Tangier.

While the Tangier medina may not be in the same league as Fez el Bali or even Marrakech , it has an interesting mix of architectural styles that make it unique.

It is here you see the first European influences on Africa in the mixed European colonial, Andalusian and Moorish Architecture.

Much like any Medina, expect a complex maze of streets with an assortment of bazaars, shops, and restaurants.

More than likely you will get lost, but unlike Fez or Marrakech, helpful locals will usually point you in the right direction without too much fear of falling victim to a scam.

That’s not to say you don’t have to be wary of the tout bearing a Rolex for sale.

Get a Tangier Shopping Guide

You can buy almost anything in the souks and Medina from antiques, fabrics, even doors and most shopkeepers will ship internationally.

If you are unsure about shopping in the medina on your own or wish to make a purchase without fear of being overcharged; hire a guide to help you navigate the shops and show you how to negotiate.

Most hotels will be able to recommend a reputable guide for a reasonable cost. You can also hire a private guide for the day and combine sightseeing with some shopping and bargaining guidance from a local.

Private full-day Tangier tours start at approx. $40 USD. Get more details here .

Soak up the Vibe at Gran Café de Paris

Stop in for coffee at Tangier’s most famous cafe; Gran Café de Paris. Relax in an oversized leather chair while waiters in sharply pressed suit coats deliver impeccable service reminiscent of the 1950s.

The cafe was a favourite hangout of the famed Tangier literati during the time of international rule. Burroughs even used it as a place to write while mingling with double agents and diplomats.

An iconic landmark, the cafe was most recently featured in the movie The Bourne Ultimatum.

Gran Café de Paris is the perfect place to get a feel for Tangier, it’s past and it’s present. As it did in Tangiers heyday, the cafe still attracts an eclectic mix of clientele.

Order a café au lait and soak up the atmosphere of the infamous Gran Café de Paris as you watch the daily trade on the Petit Socco.

For another iconic Tangier experience, treat yourself to a stay at one of the most historic and best hotels in Tangier – The  El Minzah Hotel. Or, if this lovely waterfront establishment is not within your budget, pop in for a long poolside lunch.

The service and food are what you would expect from a hotel of this calibre.

Set in lush gardens surrounding the pool; Hotel El Minzah is the perfect place to relax and indulge.

Opened in 1930; the luxurious hotel has been a favourite with dignitaries, politicians, and Hollywood stars.

The walls just off the foyer are lined with photographs of famous guests such as Sir Rex Harrison, Rita Hayworth, Rock Hudson, Prince Albert of Monaco, Jacques Cousteau, Yves Saint Laurant, and many others.

Everyone from Winston Churchill to John Malkovich has stayed at this iconic establishment.

If you want to stay at El Minzah Hotel, rooms range from €130/night to upwards of €400 for a suite. El Minzah is currently undergoing a significant refurbishment so rates may increase.

You must book well in advance as it is often booked out. Check Latest Rates for El Minzah Here

Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules

15 kilometres, approx 30 minutes west of Tangier are Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules. Both considered as Tangiers’ top attractions and one of the more popular day trips from Tangier.

Cape Spartel

Cape Spartel is the most North Western point of mainland Africa. From the lighthouse, you have views across the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.

Caves of Hercules

It is said the Greek hero Hercules once spent time in the cave after completing the 12 labours that guaranteed his immortality. The cave has two openings. One to sea and one to land.

The opening facing seaward ironically resembles the shape of the African continent.

As you descend the stairs and enter the vast cavern, you will pass vendors who will try to sell you fossilised seashells or take your picture in front of the cave. As with every situation like this in Morocco, be firm and move on if you don’t wish to make a purchase.

Enjoy Tangier Beaches

Tangier is not short of stunning beaches. The most popular is Tangier Beach, a short walk from the Medina.

The beach will be quite crowded during the day with people lunching along the seashore and tourists taking advantage of the chance to take a camel ride in Morocco.

A popular photo opportunity for those who don’t get the chance to make it to the Sahara Desert.

Cost of Camel Ride in Tangier : Expect around 10 Dirhams for a bumpy ride down the beach.

Sidi Kacem Beach

For an escape from the beach vendors and tourists on day trips to Morocco from Spain; head to Sidi Kacem beach, one of the best beaches in Tangier.

Not far from the caves of Hercules, Sidi Kacem beach offers miles of idyllic golden sandy beaches on the Atlantic coast.

One of the best features of this beach is the L’Ocean Restaurant situated right on the beachfront.

Seated on the terrace, in the shade of a fig tree, you can sample some of the best seafood and Mediterranean cuisine in Morocco while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. L’Ocean is mostly frequented by locals so expect weekends to be busy, especially in the summer months.

Day Trip From Tangier to Chefchaouen

Morocco’s Blue City, Chefchaouen is considered one of Morocco’s most beautiful towns. The blue-washed mountain village perched beneath the dramatic peaks of the Rif Mountains is where people go to chill and unwind from the rigours of travel.

While tourists now flock to the incredibly photogenic village, its authenticity isn’t entirely lost – yet.

Chefchaouen also has a reputation for being the centre of the marijuana growing region of North Morocco. One reason the city has been on the backpacker radar for some time.

While the ease of availability seems to be widely accepted in the city; with this lapse in law comes to the annoyance of touts trying to peddle weed to tourists.

Regardless, this is a mild hassle compared to the constant haranguing in places like Marrakech.

With the rise in tourism, Chefchaouen is rapidly experiencing a kind of renewal. With it comes a range of quality accommodation and plenty of good food options.

Where is Chefchaouen

It is 119 kilometres from Tangier to Chefchaouen. A little over an hour by car, so it is a perfect day trip from Tangier.

Getting from Tangier to Chefchaouen

A Grand Taxi which is a shared public taxi will cost about 850dhs/€85 each way. As it is shared, it may not always take the most direct route.

Also, make sure you agree on a price with the driver at the beginning of the journey.

Local buses running from Fez to Tangier stop at Derdara which is approx 8 km from Chefchaouen centre. From here you can grab one of the passing grand taxis for approx 5 Dh or, there are usually petit taxis at the bus station. Don’t pay more than Dh 10 to get to the medina.

Guided Day Tour

Full day, guided Tangier to Chefchaouen tours start at approx €89 pp. You can find out more here .

Want to spend more than a day in Chefchaouen? Browse current rates for  Hotels in Chefchaouen here.

Spend More Than a Day in Chefchaouen : Plan your 2-day Chefchaouen itinerary and immerse yourself in Morocco’s famous blue city.

Plan Your Trip to Tangier

Travel essentials for tangier and morocco.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Lightweight Packable Wind/Rain Jacket

Oversized Scarf for Men & Women

Anti Theft Day Pack

Stall Mates Flushable Individually Wrapped Wipes for Travel

Travel Hand Sanitizer

How to Get to Tangier

Flights to tangier.

Not all major airlines fly in and out of Tangier. Connections in Casablanca or Europe may be necessary from major international ports.

Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair also fly into Tangier. Tangier-Ibn Batouta Airport (TNG) is 12 km, about 20 minutes from the city.

Travelling from the airport is very hassle-free as the government has set fixed taxis fares – Expect to pay –

• 150 Dh at night.
• 120 Dh from the airport to the Tangier Ville train station.

You can catch a grand taxi (public shared taxi) from the roundabout for around 10 Dh to the city.

A private airport transfer will cost approx €18 pp or €49 for a group of up to seven people. You can book or find out more here .

Domestic Flights within Morocco

Royal Air Maroc operates domestic flights from all major cities in Morocco. Flying can be an expensive and inefficient way to move between cities.

The train is the most efficient and economical way to travel in Morocco.

Ferry to Tangier

Only 20 miles separate Tangier from Spain, so there are frequent ferries that make the short crossing from Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar each day.

There are also many cruise ships sailing between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic that will include Tangier as a port of call.

The main ferry from Spain to Tangier runs between Tarifa and Tangier with a second route between Algeciras and Tangier.

The ferry from Gibraltar to Tangier is currently only running one day a week.

See our Complete Guide to Catching the Ferry from Spain to Morocco 

Tarifa to Tangier Ferry

• The Tarifa to Tangier ferry route is mainly operated by two ferry companies – FRS and Inter Shipping. The ferry from Tarifa docks in Tangier Ville port in the City.
• Expect to pay around €75 return / €41 one way.
• FRS runs a one hour transfer up to eight times per day.
• Intershipping runs a two-hour service up to seven times per day.

Algeciras to Tangier Ferry

• There are seven ferry services per day from Algeciras to Tangier. Travel time approx. 90 minutes.
• Expect to pay around €65 return / €36 one way.
• Note- the ferry from Algeciras to Tangier arrives at the Tangier new port – Tanger-Med about 40 KM, one hour travel time from Tangier.

Tip: Check ferry services for ticket specials or savings on combined routes.

Day Trips to Morocco From Spain

Travel to Tangier by ferry from the Costa del Sol and spend a full-day exploring the exotic sights of the Kasbah, marvel at snake charmers and wander through the colourful stalls of the Bazaar and enjoy an authentic Moroccan lunch.

Tour includes:

• Air-conditioned bus transport
• Local guide
• Round-trip ferry tickets
• Hotel pickup from Malaga, Torremolinos, Marbella, or Estepona

See here for full tour details

Train to Tangier

The train is the most convenient and cost-effective way to travel between major cities in Morocco. Overall, the trains in Morocco are fast, comfortable and relatively inexpensive.

All services offer first and second-class fares. First-class is recommended, especially for longer trips as they will be airconditioned, have more room and allocated seating. It is also not that much more expensive than the second class so worth it.

• There are approx. 15 services per day from Casablanca to Tangier depending on the day. Up to four of these services are on the old rail line. Approx travel time of about five hours. You will need to change trains at Sidi Kacem. Expect around 195 dirhams for a first-class ticket (recommended) 132 dirhams for second class.
• The new  Casablanca—Tangier high-speed rail line has now been completed and offers around 10 services a day between the two cities. Travel time is a little over two hours. Expect to pay between 99-299 dirhams depending on carriage class and type of ticket. 
• The Tangier to Fez service runs five times per day. Approx travel time five hours. Expect around 155 dirhams for a first-class ticket (recommended) 105 dirhams for second class.
• Seven services depart Marrakech for Tangier each day and four from Tangier to Marrakech. One of these services is an overnight train. Some of the day services require a change of trains at either Sidi Kacem or Casa Voyageurs. Approx travel time 10 hours. Expect around 195 dirhams for a first-class ticket (recommended) 132 dirhams for second class.
• Expect to pay 350 Dirhams for a sleeper compartment on the overnight trains which is usually cheaper than a first-class ticket.
• The train from Marrakech to Tangier also stops in Casablanca and Rabat.

For up to date timetables, you can check the official website of the national train operator,  ONCF   or visit  The Man in Seat 61  for more on train travel in Morocco.

By Car to Tangier

Tangier Morocco is an approx 3.5 hours drive from Casablanca, nearly three hours from Rabat, almost six hours of Marrakech and four hours from Fez.

Find out More About Travelling in Morocco

Driving from Marrakech to Fez – That Atlas Mountains

8 Reasons to Visit Casablanca

The Best Things to do in Marrakech

Camping in the Sahara

Lose Yourself in Fez

Catching the Train from Casablanca to Marrakech

The New York Times

Travel | 36 hours in tangier.

Advertisement

Travel | 36 Hours

36 hours in tangier.

By SETH SHERWOOD APRIL 15, 2016

The Moroccan port city that lured Paul Bowles and Jean Genet is in turnaround mode, but its classic draws — iconic cafes, long beaches — remain.

They all rushed to Tangier. From the 1920s to the 1950s, when the Moroccan port city was a freewheeling “international zone” governed (barely) by a consortium of mostly European powers, Tangier attracted expatriates and travelers seeking illicit substances and activities in a palm-fringed seaside crossroads where Africa almost touches Europe. Barbara Hutton, the Woolworth heiress, and the billionaire Malcolm Forbes built palaces and hosted celebrit ies . Beat writers, from William S. Burroughs to Paul and Jane Bowles, wrote in a haze of drugs and booze. And the future enfants terribles of Moroccan literature, Mohamed Choukri and Mohammed Mrabet, stalked the cafes. Reviled, the Moroccan monarchy let the city decay. By the 1970s Tangier was a seedy has-been.

Today the city is undergoing a turnaround. Prized by King Moham m ed VI , who assumed the throne in 1999 , Tangier is building a huge new port, a green seafront and Africa’s first high-speed train line. Monuments and museums are getting face-lifts, and the streets of both the centuries-old Moorish medina and the colonial-era neighborhoods are sprouting boutique hotels, design shops and Euro-Moroccan restaurants. There’s even a n electro festival, Nuits Sonores Tanger , created in 2013 and held in October. Couple those with classic draws — long beaches, artisanal goods, a thriving cafe culture — and Tangier is ripe for a global return.

Explore street view, find things to do in Tangier and sign in to your Google account to save your map.

1. ECLECTIC AVENUE , 4 p.m.

Boulevard Pasteur, a . k . a . “Le Boulevard,” begins your unpasteurized plunge into colonial-era Tangier. Lined with A rt N ouveau and A rt D eco edifices, the bustling thoroughfare is packed with cafes, clothing shops and banks, as well as a scenic esplanade offering Mediterranean views. Side streets like Rue Khalid Ibn Oualidbeckon with antique s and souvenir shops, but the most rewarding stop is Libra i rie des Colonnes . Owned by Pierre Bergé, the former partner (in business and in love) of Yves Saint Laurent — a longtime homeowner in Tangier — the multilingual bookshop stocks essentials for your Tangier adventure, from street maps to i ndispensable tomes like Josh Shoemake’s “Tangier: A Literary Guide for Travellers.”

2. CULTURAL CAFES , 6 p.m.

Nearby, the venerable Gran Cafe de Paris and the hip cafe in the Cinémathèque de Tanger are windows into the spirit of Tangier, classic and contemporary. The former is a Gallic-flavored institution that fills with the (mostly) older generation of Moroccans and longtime foreign residents, who sip café au lait on banquettes once haunted by Jean Genet and Tennessee Williams. The caf e inside the Cinémathèque, an independent movie theater and archive that took over a forlorn old cinema in 200 6 , is awash in retro-cool furniture, fresh juices, Moroccan cool cats, arty expats and free Wi-Fi.

3. HOOK, LINE AND SUPPER , 8 p.m.

A photograph of King Mohammed VI beams down from a column in Saveur de Poisson, a small, rustic restaurant decorated with folkloric art. Perhaps he can smell the briny bounty, which varies with the season and tides. The day’s fresh fish offerings might include soup, a sizzling dish of calamari and monkfish with spinach, brochettes of baby shark, and a grilled sole. The purple house juice, a mix of pomegranate, fig, carrot and more, accompanies it all. Two hundred dirhams (about $21) per person.

4. BEAT STREET , 10 p.m.

Rue Magellan should be renamed Beat Street. Its hotels were favorites of Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg and Burroughs, who was a fixture at the Hotel El Muniriaand its bar, t he Tangerinn . The décor has changed (black leather couches, wall-mounted vinyl LPs) as has the crowd (20-something Moroccan hipsters) , but Burroughs still haunts the spot. His hangdog face forms a sizable mural, and quotes from him are stenciled on the walls. These days, Tangier’s expat writers, artists and self-styled deviants congregate three blocks away at Le Number One . The friendly dive is festooned with kitsch décor and stocked with Casablanca beer (40 dirhams) and myriad liquor s .

5. TEA AND SEA , 10 a.m.

Another day, another caf e . Before you lose yourself in the labyrinthine m edina, luxuriate along the coast at the open-air Café Hafa . A Tangier icon, the almost-century-old caf e is made up of tiers of whitewashed balconies that cascade down a steep hillside toward the Mediterranean, opening panoramic views of the sea and , beyond, Spain. Sip sweet tea with crushed mint leaves (7 dirhams) and gaze at that long-lost Moorish treasure across the strait: Andalusia.

6. GOSPEL OF PAUL , Noon

Apostles of Paul (Bowles) can worship the author of “The Sheltering Sky” at the museum of the Tangier American Legation Institute for Moroccan Studies . The mansion was given to the United States government by the sultan in the early 19th century and long served as a diplomatic headquarters. Today elegant rooms house exhibits related to the American (and European) presence here over the centuries. In addition to a gallery with works by Cecil Beaton, Oskar Kokoschka and others, the museum displays Bowles’s possessions, first editions and correspondence, along with photos and fan mail. Admission 20 dirhams.

7. MEAT AND SWEET , 2 p.m.

If Jane Austen opened a Moroccan restaurant, it might resemble Café à l’Anglaise . The twee tearoom channels the spirit of both Northanger Abbey and North Africa with its mix of European antiques (gilt-edged sofas, shelves of china) and traditional Moroccan design (geometric stained-glass panels). Run by a charming Moroccan family, the cozy spot serves up chicken tajine ( a long-simmered stew with olives and candied lemon) and an even sweeter pastilla (a phyllo pastry packed with diced chicken and topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon). For dessert, the candied orange peel is a syrupy, sticky, sun-soaked delight. Lunch for two is around 250 dirhams.

8. SHOP THE CASBAH , 3:30 p.m.

The splintering lanes of the m edina district beg for a GPS: Global Power Shopper. T hese tiny arteries are filled with stalls and stores selling artisanal goods. Rue Sebou and Rue des Almohades are havens of traditional items, but the streets in and around the c asbah , the walled hilltop fortress , now brim with shops of Moorish-modern design. Rumi 1436 specializes in naturally scented soy wax candles in classic Marrakesh tea glasses. Where So H o meets the Sahara, Las Chicas is a sprawling emporium stocked with cushions, lanterns, massage oils, tasseled towels and handbags. For big budgets, the eponymous designer Laure Welfling ’s boutique offers kaleidoscopic velvety caftans, embroidered evening dresses and other boho-chic garments.

9. CASBAH SOCIAL CLUB , 6:30 p.m.

Follow your ears immediately next door to the unmarked storefront across from the K asbah Museum (undergoing renovations), where live music erupt s at 6:30. The tiny space, lined with embroidered banquettes, is the clubhouse of Les Fils du Détroit , a team of master musicians. The Sons of the Strait are now old enough to be grandfathers — after some 40 years of playing teardrop-shaped ouds, tubular drums and violins together — but their free nightly jam sessions always sound fresh as they meld the melodies of Morocco and Spain in an evocative Arabo-Andalusian fusion. ( D onations appreciated . )

10. SULTANIC SUPPER , 8 p.m.

Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or an opulent banquet, the restaurant of the exquisite Nord-Pinus hotel can accommodate. The connected salons gleam with s ultanic décor — marble columns, chiseled plaster arches, inlaid mirrors — and the kitchen turns out fine-tuned Moroccan classics. Starters include grilled sardine fil l ets with diced tomato and onion; entree s range from grilled and baked fish to a sublime slow-cooked joint of lamb with stewed fruits and almonds. The house red, a Moroccan vintage, is a smooth accompaniment. Dinner is 350 dirhams a person, without wine.

11. THE ARABIAN NIGHT , 10 p.m.

You half expect to glimpse Humphrey Bogart in a white dinner jacket as you enter the chic, neo-Moorish lounge of El Morocco Club , a fetching caf e -restaurant-bar. The speakeasyish space feels like a 21st-century “Casablanca” set teeming with international businessmen, jet-set couples and gilded Tangier youth instead of Nazis and spies. A corner D . J . spins everything from jazz to Moroccan pop, while bartenders serve up mojitos (110 dirhams) and Moroccan red wine (60 dirhams). Still awake? Direct your caravan to Morocco Palace, a classic cabaret with elaborate geometric tilework and a dance floor of flashing colored lights. The sultry dance hall glows as red as the inferno and throbs with the neo-snake-charmer beats from live electric orchestras.

12. CAVES AND WAVES , 11 a.m.

According to legend, after separating Europe from Africa, Hercules took a snooze at Les Grottes d’Hercule, a pair of caverns along the ocean to the west of Tangier. (A “grand taxi” from central Tangier should cost between 200 and 300 dirhams, roundtrip.) Recently spruced up, the adjacent grottoes offer somewhat opposite experiences. One is a carnival-like pageant of traditional musicians and gift shops ( admission, 5 dirhams ) . The other (free) is a dark complex of caves with a huge, strange aperture — shaped like Africa, amazingly — that opens to the crashing Atlantic. Peering at the ocean through its jagged outline, you are truly at the crossroads of the continents.

Built in 1880, the Grand Hotel Villa de France (Corner of Avenue Angleterre and Rue Hollande; 212-5-39-33-31-11; www. leroyal.com/giftcard/ghvdf) was Tangier’s top luxury palace before falling into ruin. But after an ambitious renovation, the 58-room hotel reopened in 2014. Doubles from 1,225 dirhams.

In the medina, numerous traditional mansions have been converted into boutique B&Bs. Dar Nour (20, rue Gourna, Casbah; 212-6-62-11-27-24; darnour.com) has 10 rooms and suites decorated in chic Euro-Moroccan décor and a sumptuous salon that hosts a nightly aperitif. Doubles from 59 euros.

To be near the medina’s bustling, cafe-filled, boutique-loaded main square, Le Petit Socco, Dar Nakhla Naciria (12w, rue Naciria; 212-6-07-21-69-56; facebook.com/DarNakhlaNaciria) is a simple, friendly, five-room B&B with a panoramic rooftop terrace. Doubles from 50 euros.

More on NYTimes.com

My Free Range Family

Destinations , Morocco · Last Updated: March 14, 2024

13 Top Things to Do in Tangier + 3 Day Quick & Easy Itinerary

If you’re looking for a handful of the top things to do in Tangier, then you’ll NEED this 3 day itinerary and guide.

Below you’ll discover the top 13 things to do in Tangier AND with our easy 3 day itinerary you won’t need to stress over how to see it all ! From the Kasbah and the Medina, to the museums, historical and cultural icons such as the Rif Cinema and Cafe Hafa, Tangier is brimming with things to do!

Tangier is Morocco’s port city at the north western end of Africa. A city where you’re able to sit and enjoy Moroccan mint tea, while admiring the Strait of Gibraltar with views of Spain in the distance. A place where you can immerse yourself in history, take in some culture and enjoy a mix of Moroccan and Mediterranean .

Tangier is a city steeped in compelling history, shaped by European and Arab invasions throughout the centuries. It is homeland to the great explorer Ibn Battuta, a legend in his own right. And more recently, Tangier has earned a reputation among artists – famous painters, writers, poets and musicians who have found inspiration here.

It’s a city of contrasts with much to offer. From travellers coming for a day or two from Europe, to those visiting as a start or end point of a greater Moroccan road trip.

Along with top things to do, get our tips on where to stay in Tangier, how to get there, which day trips to take and the best beaches to check out. This guide and itinerary can help you if you’re visiting Tangier for 1 day, 2 days, 3 days or more. So read on for the top 13 things to do and see in Tangier, that you absolutely don’t want to miss!

Table of Contents

Where is Tangier

Tangier or Tanger in French, is a busy port town and city, in the north west of Morocco. Incredibly Spain is only 40km north of Tangier, an easy 1 hour and 20 minutes by ferry. And on a clear day, you can even see Tarifa , Spain’s southern most point, across the Strait of Gibraltar.

🗝 To better understand what makes Tangier unique, it helps to know a few of the historical influences. Read on if you’re interested in knowing more. Alternatively, skip ahead to get started with your Tangier itinerary.

* This post may contain affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for your support!

Historical Influences in Tangier

Prior to the 10 th century BCE, Tangier was initially established as a Berber village, before becoming a Phoenician trading post. However, as a result of its prominent location it has had a rather turbulent past.

In a nutshell: This part of Morocco was occupied by the Carthaginians and Romans in its early stages. The Vandals occupied in 429 CE, but were later overthrown during Berber unrest. It was then retaken by the Byzantine Army in 533 CE before the Arab and Muslim invasions of North Africa in the early 8 th century. Then due to it’s ideal location, Tangier was used to further launch an invasion into Spain. However, they too were overthrown as part of the Berber revolt in 740. It was in 790, that Moulay Idris I the founder of the Idris Dynasty, took Tangier as part of the Morocco we know today.

14th to 20th Centuries

Tangier was taken by the Portuguese in the late 14 th century. Who later shared control with Spain. Before it was gifted to England’s King Charles II as part of a dowry when he married Catherine of Braganza in 1661. The British however withdrew from the city in 1684 due to pressure from the then Moroccan ruler Sultan Moulay Ismail. However, in doing so they destroyed large parts of the city and its port.

In the late 19 th and early 20 th century, France had a major influence on Morocco. Which in 1905 triggered a major international crisis, as Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany was pushing for Morocco’s independence. However in doing so he only forced a strengthening of the French British relations. In 1912, Morocco was divided between France and Spain. Spanish Morocco in the far north and south. While French colonies covering the area between. Thus forcing Sultan Moulay Hafid into exile in his Kasbah in Tangier.

In 1923, Tangier became an international zone between Britain, France and Spain. With Portugal, Italy, Belgium and Netherlands later added. It was during this time that the city started to establish itself as the cosmopolitan city it is today. Having a melting pot of ethnicities, a place where all religious and ideological groups could gather and find sanctuary. In 1956, the international zone was abolished, and Tangier returned to the now independent Morocco under the rule of Sultan Mohammed V.

Present Day

Today Tangier has become a major destination for both commerce and tourism. Second only to Casablanca in terms of Morocco’s economic hubs. And growing significantly over the last 15 years, within industrial, commercial and residential development.  

This growth has come about due to the presence of the Tanger Med Port, which is one of the largest cargo ports in Africa. As well as the recently redeveloped terminal of Port de Tangier Ville passenger ferry and the relatively new high speed rail system between Tangier and Casablanca.

Artists Who Found Inspiration in Tangier

Tangier was somewhat of a mecca for many great artists over the 20 th century. From painters and writers to musicians.

Henri Matisse, first came to Tangier in 1912 and returned in 1913, painting various images during his stay. Including ‘ Window at Tangier ‘ of the St Andrew’s church painted from his balcony window.

In the late 40’s to 50’s Tangier become a highly desired destination for many well known writers. Including Author Paul Bowels who later returned with his wife to live in Tangier. As well as poet and Actor Peter Orlovsky with his partner and fellow writer Irwin Allen Ginsberg. And in 1954 William Burroughs spent 4 years in Tangier where he wrote his novel Naked Lunch .

In the 60’s and 70’s Tangier, along with other locations in Morocco became a popular spot for various rock artists. This included The Rolling Stones who first visited in ’67, spending time enjoying what the city had to offer. They then returned in ’89 spending three days recording ‘ Continental Drift .’ Jimi Hendrix stayed on his way down to Essaouira in ’69. Not forgetting the Beatles also enjoyed their time in Tangier over this period. Then in ’75, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant sailed out of Tangier after their massive drive across the country.

Planning Your Tangier Itinerary

So what with, the colourful and transient history, along with the strong international interest Tangier has attracted, it is a very different type of Morocco. In comparison to Marrakech and Fes , Tangier’s Medina has a more Mediterranean feel to it… it’s unique and an experience all of its own.

Below we explain everything you’ll need to know to help you get the very best from your Tangier experience and itinerary. Read on for our travel tips on getting there and getting around, the best places to stay, and of course a full list of the top 13 things to do and places to visit in Tangier.

💥 Tangier Itinerary Inspo! To get your itinerary planning juices flowing – browse some of these popular activities. Read about our cooking class experience in Fes to find out if it’s something you’d like to try in Tangier.

How to Get to Tangier

Tangier has a host of options when it comes to both domestic and international travel.

Internationally, the options include Tangier Ibn Battouta airport (TNG), and passenger and car ferries arriving from Spain, France and Italy at Tanger Med Port and Port de Tangier Ville.

Internally, Tangier has great options for domestic flights, trains both high speed and standard, and bus. And of course you can also self-drive!

International Flights

Currently there are 12 airlines operating out of Tangier Ibn Battouta airport (TNG) with Ryanair, Air Arabia Maroc and Royal Air Maroc being the major. Multiple nonstop flights come from Europe each day.

From the United States there are no direct flights to Tangier, but with Royal Air Maroc you can book direct flights into Casablanca from New York (JFK) Washington (IAD) and Miami (MIA).

International Ferries

As mentioned above, pedestrian and drive-on passenger ferries arrive into both Tangier Med Port and Port de Tangier Ville. FRS are currently the only operator running between Tarifa Spain and Tangier Ville. We took this ferry for our day trip from Tarifa . And given the central location of this port, Tangier Ville is conveniently positioned near the main Medina in Tangier.

In Tangier Med, further from town, there are three ferry operators. These include FRS, Baleària, and Africa Morocco Link (AML) which run multiple trips per day from Algeciras, Spain.

Then from Barcelona you can book with Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) and La Meridionale. Or from Marseille France, or Grenoa Italy, GNV run once a week.

Browse ferry bookings here with Ferry Hopper to grab the best ferry for your Tangier itinerary.

Domestic Transport Options to Tangier

Morocco has a great bus system with various operators running multiple trips per day between all major destinations. CTM and Supra Tours are two that we used throughout our three month Morocco itinerary. They are both equally reliable and comfortable – you can read our post travelling with Supra Tours here.

Book tickets direct through the CTM or Supra Tours website. As a guideline of transport times and costs to Tangier with CTM you can expect the following –

• Tetouan – travel time 1 hour from 25 MAD
• Casablanca – travel time 6 hours from 90 MAD
• Chefchaouen – travel time 2 hours and 30 minutes from 75 MAD
• Fes – travel time 6 hours and 30 minutes from 145 MAD

*Prices vary according to season

ONCF operate Morocco’s railway network. The state owned company operates several lines and trains within the country, with more planned.

Fun Fact: from Tangier to Casablanca you can hitch a ride on Africa’s first high speed train system – Al Boraq! This has significantly reduced travel speed.

ONCF train lines currently get you to Tangier from destinations such as, Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech and even Fes. Note: that if you travel by train you have the option of travelling in first or second class. Prices between the two are not massive, so if you prefer to travel in a little more comfort, with a little more leg space then 1st class may be a better option.

And if you are something of a train enthusiast, then you can take Al Atlas Classic train from Fes to Tangier. One option will get you there direct in just over 4 hours. And the second option will get you there a little quicker in just over 3 hours, with a change in Kenitra from the Al Atlas onto the Al Boraq.

Tickets can be booked direct through the ONCF website. As a guideline of transport times and costs to Tangier with ONCF you can expect the following –

• Casablanca – travel time just over 2 hours, economy from 180 to 260 MAD
• Marrakech – travel time is 5 1/4 hours with a transfer in Casablanca, economy from 300 to 320 MAD
• Fes – travel time 3+ to 4+ hours, economy costs from 110 to 180 MAD

*Prices vary according to season and class of travel

Self-Driving with a Rental Car

Tangier is obviously a great starting point for a Moroccan itinerary or road trip, with various ferries operating out of this busy port. Read above for the ferry options available when arriving into Tangier from Europe.

Alternatively, booking a rental car is another great choice, as Morocco’s highways are reasonably easy to navigate. Many people choose to self-drive as this allows a greater independence and ability to explore off the beaten path.

Goggle Maps tends to always get you to where you need to go. Just note, when venturing further into the main city centres, you’ll need to keep your wits about you. Obviously roads will get rather busy, so we recommend, expect the unexpected and keep your eyes three cars ahead. And if you’re exploring the Medinas, then you’ll need to park up and walk on foot.

We use the Qeeq rental car booking platform to book our rental cars when travelling. They always manage to scope out the cheapest deal, especially if you make the most of their new user coupon.

13 Top Things to Do in Tanger

So now we have covered all the formalities, let’s get to the bits you really want to know about. That’s right my friend, get ready for the top 13 things to see and do in Tangier for an itinerary to remember!

The Medina and Souks

As with most of Morocco’s cities, Tangier old town or Medina was once the central part of the city. Surrounded by old fortified walls, within is a maze of alleyways, accessed only by foot which lead you to various souks, riads, museums, cafés, mosques and hotels.

If you’re only in town for the day and looking for a little culture, food and shopping then this is where you need to be.

Starting at the waterfront by Port de Tanger Ville , the northern wall wraps around the coast overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. From here you can enter the Medina via Bab dar Dbagh .

The main road leading through Bab dar Dbagh divides after 200m. Rue Dar Baroud continues straight ahead in a north direction following the coastal wall. While Rue de la Marine heads west (or left), taking you further into the Medina.

If you follow Rue de la Marine, this will take you through to Petit Socco. A great place to stop and grab a coffee or mint tea at either Café Tinjis or Gran Café Central before heading on.

From Petit Socco you can either head north along Rue Almohades, which we found had some amazing shops. It includes a lot of general souks, with various carpet shops, leather goods, antiques and souvenirs. But also several boutique stores.

Alternatively, you can keep heading west along Rue Siaghine up the hill towards Bab Al Fahs. This will pop you out at the Grand Socco… the next on our top things to do in Tangier list.

Boutique Stores in the Medina

If you like unique clothing with a Moroccan twist, then visit owner and fashion designer Kaoutar Sahel at her store Youmes Creations . She weaves her love for Moroccan culture into a thoughtfully curated collection. Everything in her shop is gorgeous, and if you’re lucky you’ll also meet her mother on the Singer sewing machine. They are a lovely family! We also love Bobois Tanger for handmade wooden homeware. The owner Julien Bouchet, is a super interesting guy to chat to, and his work is fantastic.

Other Things to Check Out Within the Medina

The American Legation Museum – This historic building was the first American public property outside of the US and is also the only US National Historic landmark on foreign soil.

It was built in 1821 and was used by the US as a diplomatic office for the following 140 years.

It now serves as a museum, predominantly used to highlight the long history and relations between Morocco and the US. This started back in 1777 when Morocco became the first country to recognise American independence from Great Britain and which lead to a Moroccan – American Treaty of Friendship in 1786.

The Fresh Food Market – Check out this cool market if you’re in town for a couple of days and looking for fresh produce, meats and some seafood. You’ll find this souk on your left as you leave the Medina heading towards the Grand Socco. It also has entrances from the Grand Socco if you’re coming at it from this direction.

This covered market is mainly used by locals. It’s tight and can get a little busy at times, but this just adds to the authenticity. So shop like a local and grab yourself some fresh fruit for your travels.

Grand Socco

This is the large square at the western side of the Medina, just outside Bab Al Fahs . It’s also a great alternative entrance point to the Medina . From here you can make your way back down the hill towards the port, rather than coming up.

Essentially, it’s a large roundabout with a fountain. But it’s a popular hang out location among locals because of the grassed and paved area. It’s a great social place at the end of the day, where you’ll find the likes of ice cream vendors and sometimes even a little entertainment. Across the road is Cinema Rif, a Tangier icon, which undoubtedly earns a place on our list of top things to do in Tangier.

Cinema Rif is at the Grand Socco, opposite Bab Al Fahs, you can’t really miss it! It’s both a working cinema and café. But it’s special given that it’s an old theatre, the kind you might remember from your childhood. It shows both alternative, classic and mainstream films. If you plan on catching a movie during your stay in Tangier, check to see what languages the movies are displayed in before booking.

If, however you’re just looking for a place to grab a drink and slice of something sweet, then this iconic place is worth it. As you’ll most likely see when you visit, many gather at the Cinema Rif to people watch with a coffee and cake.

Saint Andrew’s Church

Saint Andrew’s church is just three minutes walk south west of the Grand Socco. From Cinema Rif, head towards Sidi Bouabid mosque, down Rue d’Angleterre keeping the mosque on your right. The entrance to the church garden is at the junction of this one way street, on the opposite side of the road.

It’s open from 10am to 1pm, then reopens again from 2.30pm to 5pm, six days a week, but closed on Friday. Entrance into the garden and graveyard is free and the church is by donation.

The garden and graveyard has many well established trees, providing plenty of shade, so is great for a stroll around midday or in the afternoon.

And be sure to ask the groundskeeper and custodian about the St Andrew’s Church in the Henri Matisse painting. It’s pretty cool to think that you are walking within a famous painting!

Don’t miss the beautiful Kasbah like we did on our first visit to Tangier. It was like discovering a whole new Tangier when we discovered the Kasbah on our second visit. It’s a lovely part of the Medina to explore, to brush up on your history, as well as a great place to shop. There are a high concentration of boutique shops as well as a collection of luxury hotels and boutique accommodation.  

The Kasbah is part of the Medina, but an elevated section at the northern end. We recommend that you start your visit from Bab Kasbah and everything else is a walk downhill .

Within the Kasbah you’ll find Espace d’Exposition de la memoire d’Ibn Battouta or the Ibn Batutta Museum. The Kasbah Museum and the Contemporary Art Museum.

To get here, from the Grand Socco, enter the medina via Bab Al Fahs. Then follow Rue d’Italie which becomes Rue de la Kasbah. After the parking lot at the top of the hill, turn right into Place du Tabor and in front of you will be Bab Kasbah.

Ibn Batutta Museum

As you may well have guessed, this museum covers the life of the great explorer Abu Abdullah Muhammad ibn Battutah , or more commonly known as Ibn Batutta. Known as the greatest traveller of his time, Ibn Batutta travelled extensively through Africa, into Europe, the Middle East and Asia. In fact, he far exceeded the travels of Marco Polo exploring most of the eastern hemisphere throughout his journey. He was born in Tangier in 1304 and later returned in 1354 and is believed to be buried within the Medina.

This new museum is a tribute to Ibn Battuta’s life and travels. It’s a modern interactive museum, with translations in both Arabic, French and English. It’s really well displayed and walks you through his astonishing life. If you like history or want to know more about this incredible Moroccan explorer, we thoroughly recommend a visit.

The Tomb of Ibn Batutta – If you are an Ibn Batutta enthusiast, then you may want to prioritise a visit to his tomb. This is the site believed to be Ibn Battuta’s final resting place.

It is small and rather inconspicuous considering his accomplishments, but it does have a placard outside. Unfortunately, is was closed when we visited. You can find the tomb on Rue Ibn Batouta located not far from the Kasbah Rose Hotel.

The Kasbah and Contemporary Art Museums

We have listed these two together as they sit side by side, and can be covered under one entrance fee.

The Kasbah Museum is found within what was formerly the Sultan’s Palace or Dar al-Makhzen. Which was where the last Sultan of independent Morocco was exiled during the French protectorate of Morocco.

The museum focuses mainly on the history of the area, which also includes displays of various antiques, arts, carpets, crafts and firearms.  It houses a central open courtyard and roof top garden.

Two of its main displays are the mosaic of Venus and the giant replica maps. Note that the displays are in French and Arabic only, but a small pamphlet is available at the ticket desk for English speakers.

The Contemporary Art Museum opened on the 24 th December 2021, housed within the old restored Kasbah prison.

The space is a combination of both permanent and temporary exhibits, with a key focus being to display and pay tribute to artists from Morocco’s northern region.  

Stretched over several floors, with elevator and wheel chair access. It’s a beautiful and thought provoking space, that allows its visitors a place to view and interact.

Both the museums are open from 10am – 6pm, 6 days a week, closed on Tuesdays. I loved the fact that there weren’t many tourist here, and so it was one of my favourite top things to do in Tangier.

Bab Al Bahr

This gate is right next to the Kasbah museum and offers an amazing view across the Strait of Gibraltar. Given that it is close to the museums, it’s definitely worthy of a quick visit.

The Phoenician Tombs

The Phoenician Tombs are found north west of the Kasbah and can be visited either on your way to, or back from Café Hafa.

Due to Tangier’s turbulent past these are one of the only few remaining relics connected to its early beginnings. These tombs are a free open air necropolis, carved into the hillside overlooking the Straight of Gibraltar. Providing a great vantage point out over the port and a popular place with Tangier residents in the late afternoon.

We had read a little about the tombs, but seeing them in person kind of took my breath away. Perhaps it was the day we visited, with the beautiful clear skyline but I definitely recommend the walk and the visit. Note: they can be full of litter, fortunately during our visit they were in the process of being cleaned up.

Yes, it’s a café, but could also be described as an experience . If you are in Tangier and do only one thing outside of the Medina, then this has to be at the top of your things to do list!

Cafe Hafa opened in 1921 and so has officially celebrating its 100 th anniversary… crazy right! But this open air café hasn’t changed a great deal during its time. This means Cafe Hafa has achieved somewhat an icon status. In fact, over the 100 years, it has served the likes of Paul Bowles, William S Burroughs, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

Positioned over open tiered terraces from the main entrance drown the steep hill side. The views are incredible and the experience a cultural must. Cafe Hafa is a place to grab a mint tea, sit, relax and enjoy the moment. However, be warned it can get very busy. Especially over summer and on the weekends when the weather outside is at it’s best.

Cape Spartel

Cape Spartel was one of our favourite top things to do in Tangier, as we are nature lovers!. The area of Cape Spartel is a national park on the most north western point of Africa and is at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar.

Here you will find the Cape Spartel lighthouse. Which doubles as a small museum providing the history of the area, not to mention a great view from the top. It also has a café and some grassed areas if you wish to stop for a coffee or picnic.

Cape Spartel is a great day trip destination for a Tangier itinerary, if you also include Hercules Cave and the surrounding beaches. You can expect an easy 3.6 km walk down the coast from the lighthouse to the cave. So pack your swimsuit and a bit of lunch to hit the beaches while you walk along the coastline.

☀️ We wrote a dedicated post on taking a day trip from Tangier to Cape Spartel and the Hercules Caves!

Cape Spartel is around a 25 minute drive from Tangier and the easiest way to get to there is by taxi. You can either take a Grand Taxi by yourself from any pick up point, or a collective if you’re looking for a more economical way.

Collective taxis are our preferred way to travel beyond the cities for day trips in Morocco. They are budget friendly, and you simply turn up and wait till the taxi fills to six passengers. This never takes longer than 15-20 minutes. The collective taxi point we used in Tangier to get to Cape Spartel was at the top of Rue Sidi Bouabid just before the roundabout, and it cost 20 MAD per passenger.

Hercules Cave

The popular Hercules Cave is both man-made and a natural cave formation. The natural cave has one land entrance, but also opens out to the sea. From this angle the cave opening has a striking resemblance to the African continent. The man-made caves were originally made by local Berber tribes who used the caves for carving stone wheels.

Fun Fact: Legend has it that this is where Hercules stayed the night before stealing the golden apples as part of his 12 labours given to him by King Eurystheus.

Word of warning, the cave is a popular tourist destination, so can get exceptionally busy. If you’re in Tangier during the peak season, it would be best to get there early before the buses arrive.

Beaches for a Tangier Itinerary

As you can imagine, one of the top things to do in Tangier is check out the lovely beaches, both in the city, its outer suburbs and others further out of town.  So, if your itinerary in Tangier includes some beach days, then read below.

Note that most beaches don’t have shade or changing rooms. So bring sunblock, some money to rent a beach umbrella and dress wisely. Also these beaches can be a little busy over the hectic summer holidays of July and August, so outside the busy season is the best time to visit.

In the City

If you don’t mind the crowds or can’t be bothered getting a taxi, then Tangier has several spots for you to chose from. Well it’s actually just one long stretch of beach that has been named by sections. And all are accessible straight off the main cornice.

At the port end nearest to the Medina, you have Plage Municipal, which then leads onto Plage de Tanger, with Plage Malabata at the opposite end.

Word of warning: don’t take your eye off your bag while sitting on the beach. Yes we had ours swiped from right under our nose (post coming soon).

Merkala Beach

Just west of the port, less than 10 minutes by Petit Taxi is Merkala beach. Tucked in a little bay, looking out onto the Strait of Gibraltar with a cliff on its western side and a rocky coast on the east.  This little beach is less touristy and a great place for a couple of hours.

Playa Blanca, Plage Sidi Kankouche and Plage Oued Alian

These three beaches lie to the east of Tangier around 10km from the city centre. It takes just 20 – 30 minutes to get there by car or taxi. All have little beach bars for that morning, midday or afternoon snack.

The sand is perfect and the water is clear, so go, enjoy and catch some sun rays on your Tangier itinerary.

The Atlantic Coast: Achakkar Beach

Just south of Cape Spartel lie several great beaches. With most being within walking distance of each other, therefore you can take your pick depending on what you’re looking for.

The first little bay you will find is Plage Sol. Which is about a 20 minute walk down from the Cape’s lighthouse. It’s a lovely bay and a great place to either take a dip or stay for the day. Just a 20 metre walk over the small rocky outcrop at the southern end you will find Achakkar Beach. Which is home to Mikki Beach and Kabana Beach Club, if a party beach is your buzz. But if not there are also many other spots along the beach to enjoy.

At the end of Achakkar beach out on the headland is where you will find Hercules Caves. Further south of the cave is a huge stretch of beach that includes Sidi Kacem beach.

Longer Day Trips for a Tangier Itinerary

If you’re wanting to explore a little further or have a couple of extra days then there are several day trip options. In fact you might decide to switch out one of the top things to do on this list, with a day trip from Tangier. All of which are easily reached by bus or car.

Just 45 minutes south west of Tangier on the Atlantic coast is the adorable coastal village of Asilah. Its 15th Century Medina, is protected by its rampart walls that rise up from the Atlantic Ocean. This giving the town an endless sound of the ocean on its door step.

There are several watchtowers along the walls for you to wander around and enjoy an early morning or afternoon stroll. Inside the Medina you will discover its beautifully preserved whitewashed buildings, connected by its wider alleyways, helping you to slowly stroll and enjoy what this slower passed town has to offer. In recent years Asilah has become a bit of an Art hub, with numerous galleries popping up throughout the town. It also holds an annual art festival at the start of the summer, in which various parts of the Medina are turned into large canvases.

Asilah is on the main train line that runs south of Tangier. But make sure you get on the right train as not all stop on their way through. Alternatively, click to find out more about this guided tour of Asilah.

Tetouan is just over an hour drive, or bus ride east from Tangier. It sits in the Martil valley, with the central part of the city rolling down slopes of the Rif mountains and out to the Mediterranean.

Here you can visit the medina, which has more of a working vibe then a central tourist destination. With a lot of its inhabitants living and working within it. Tetouan also has large Jewish and Spanish quarters as Tetouan was once the capital of the Spanish protectorate of Morocco. Wherein you’ll find Mulay Mehdi square and the Church of Our Lady Victories, to list just a few.

Chefchaouen

Known as Morocco’s blue city, Chefchaouen is a 2 hour and 30 minute drive or bus ride from Tangier.

If you’re visiting for the day then the Medina has plenty to keep you occupied. Spend the day strolling the alleyways, hunting out that perfect photo, add in a little shopping, a stop into the Kasbah museum and if you want to stretch your legs, walk out to the Spanish Mosque.

💥 Below are the best day trip tour options from Tangier to Chefchaouen

Read: our guide to Chefchaouen

Quick 3 Day Itinerary to Tangier

There we go! So far we’ve shared with you the top things to do in Tangier… including some of the best beaches to visit, as well as possible day trips. Next up, I’ll explain how to best organise your 3 day itinerary in Tangier.

👇 And don’t forget to read on below, for our recommended top stays in Tangier!

Day 1 Itinerary in Tangier – Medina and Kasbah

Take your time wandering the streets of the Kasbah to start your day. Beginning at Bab Kasbah you’ll be able to meander along at your own pace, making your way slowly from top to bottom. Check out the Ibn Battuta Museum and tomb, walk the outer wall, darting in and out of smaller alleys. Photographing doorways and bougainvillea along the way, stop for the view at Bab al Bahr. Visit the Kasbah Museum and Museum of Contemporary Arts.

Then in the late afternoon or early evening, begin wandering the streets of the Medina. Once again take small alleyways left and right, admiring carpet shops, craft shops and boutique stores. Chat to locals, drink mint tea at the Petit Socco and enjoy Moroccan shopping.

💥 Get help navigating the city with these walking tour options!

Day 2 Itinerary in Tangier – Day Trip to Cape Spartel

Grab a tour, taxi or collective and head to Cape Spartel for the day. Starting with a visit to the lighthouse and small museum, enjoy the views over the Atlantic Coast.

Then begin your walk down the hill towards the Atlantic Coast beaches. The walk is a pleasant one, easy to navigate and a nice way to see the cape. Fill a couple of hours sunbathing at a beach of your choice (we like Sol beach, but there are more further along).

Then before making the trip back to Tangier don’t miss the opportunity to see the Hercules Cave.

Read: Our guide on how to visit Cape Spartel

Day 3 Itinerary in Tangier – Beaches / Beyond the Medina

If the weather is right then why not check out some more of the local beaches in and around Tangier. Otherwise explore a few of the top things to do in Tangier that sit outside the Medina and Kasbah.

From the top of the Kasbah, heading away from Bab Kasbah, make your way towards the Phoenician Tombs and then on to Cafe Hafa for a mint tea. Find yourself a seat, anywhere you possibly can, and then take your time, admire the view and people watch!

Then either walk or take a taxi back to the Saint Andrew’s Church. Before making your way to the Grand Socco, to see the Cinema Rif. Stop into the fruit and veggie market, and then head back through the Medina for any last minute shopping or museum visits.

Where to Stay in Tangier

Below we recommend the best places to stay for a Tangier itinerary. If you’re backpacking and need budget, something mid-range or high-end and boutique, we’ve picked the best!

First up, we think the Medina is the best location to stay in Tangier. So we have concentrated on finding the best Medina stays for you, as this is where most of our main sights on our Top Things to Do in Tangier list are located. In which case, having accommodation that’s in walking distance is a must.

Also, we have tried to find unique riad or dar stays, which you should really do at least once while you’re in Morocco. Not sure what a riad is? Read this review of our riad stay in Essaouira .

Or read on for our top picks of places to stay for your Tangier itinerary!

Budget Accommodation

Bayt alice hostel.

For those travelling with backpacks, looking for a more communal experience to meet other travellers, then Bayt Alice would be our top choice.

Located in the Medina not far from the Tangier American Legation Museum, it’s the ideal location for those looking to explore.

With various rooms both private and shared dorms available, you have plenty to chose from. All rooms have a private bathroom attached, with access to the communal living room and terrace.

Family & Midrange Accommodation

Kasbah rose.

If you’re travelling with kids then you need to know that finding a hotel with family rooms and high reviews isn’t easy. However, families are welcome at the beautiful Kasbah Rose , when booking two rooms.

Opened in 2015, this light and lovely guest house is situated at the top end of the medina on top of the old Kasbah walls. Providing amazing panoramic views from numerous angles.

It has five rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms and seating areas, with a terrace and balcony available in two of the rooms.

Breakfast can also be included, depending on offers or can be arranged on request.

Family Apartment with Sea View

Alternatively, not far from the Medina is this highly reviewed, cute little apartment that can sleep a family of four.

In this cosy little place, you’ll be close to the main beach in Tangier and the medina. With a fully equipped kitchen you’ll also be able to self cater.

If you are travelling with a rental car, then you’ll be interested to know that there is free parking available. Overall the hosts are extremely helpful, and they have put a great deal of time and love into decorating and creating a pleasant experience for their guests.

Dar Nour – Mid-Range Accommodation

This is our pick for a mid-range but unforgettable couples getaway.

Dar Nour bed and breakfast is located at the top end of the medina, close to the Kasbah, museums and boutique shopping. All rooms are beautifully furnished with traditional Moroccan décor. Each room has an ensuite bathroom, with some of the rooms also including an additional seating area.

Included in your stay is a traditional Moroccan breakfast, featuring local specialties and seasonal favourites. There is a roof top terrace offering amazing views over the Medina, with sea views of the coastline. It also has a small massage room, a rooftop bar available on the terrace and Free WIFI throughout.

Riad Dar Saba – Saba’s House – Luxury Accommodation

This luxury boutique riad would be our premium pick for those looking for that something extra.

Opened in 2019, this art deco styled boutique hotel provides a total of four suites and two double rooms. These rooms have been named and themed after some of Tangiers most famous inhabitants and guests.

The hotel, provides a Mediterranean breakfast with room service also available. In the lounge you’ll find a grand piano and cocktail bar that serves tapas and snacks. And on the roof top terrace is a hammam.

It’s located at the northern end of the Medina, not far from the coastal rampart walls. Therefore, providing spectacular ocean views from its lavish roof top terrace. The perfect place to enjoy the sunrise or sunset with a glass in hand.

Map of the Top Things to Do in Tangier

Is tangier worth a visit.

In short, YES!

This was our second visit to Tangier. Our latest being a week, on the back of a three month trip though Morocco. Admittedly our first Tangier itinerary was only a day trip from Tarifa in Spain . But it was an awesome introduction, and proved that a day trip to Tangier is also a great way to see this North Moroccan Medina.

During our three months we visited all the major destinations, including Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira, Chefchaouen and more. So you can’t help but compare it to the various other cities in Morocco and in all honesty Tangier holds its own.

So whether you only have a day, or a week, or you’re planning a Moroccan road trip, Tangier is definitely worth your time!

If you liked our itinerary and guide of top things to do in Tangier then you might like to read our other dedicated blogs in Morocco –

💙 Chefchaouen – Top Things to Do in the Blue Pearl 🛵 Marrakech – A Three Day Guide to Marrakech 👟 Fes – Two Days in Fes with our Awesome Self Guided Walking Tour 🏄‍♀️ Essaouira – A Complete Travel Guide to Essaouira

Don’t forget to save or pin our 3 day itinerary and guide of t op things to do in Tangier for later

We now travel full-time and have plenty more itineraries and guides to share on all the destinations we visit. Sign up to follow our journey! (And don’t worry we won’t spam you with unnecessary emails.)

You’ll Also Love

March 30, 2023 at 11:02 am

Great 😃 thnaks for this amazing 😍 article so much info and and value I will definitely share it with my friends

April 5, 2023 at 5:04 pm

Glad you like it! 🥳

November 6, 2023 at 4:22 pm

Thank you for the article. Useful and very well explained, I’ll be using it in the following days. Keep travelling and sharing it!

November 20, 2023 at 10:57 pm

Many thanks! I’m glad to hear it is appreciated 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Privacy Policy

Join the List

Enter your email address below to receive updates from us.

• Slow Travel
• Sustainability
• Packing Lists
• Travel Products
• New Zealand
• Yemen, Socotra Island

Copyright © 2024 My Free Range Family · Theme by 17th Avenue

The Best Things to Do in Tangier, Morocco

Sharing is caring!

This post contains affiliate links. We may receive compensation, at no extra cost to you, when you click on or make a purchase using these links.

You know about Morocco, but do you know about Tangier? Rich in history, this important port guards the Strait of Gibraltar and is Europe’s gateway to Africa. For historical reasons, Tangier has a seedy reputation but this is no longer justified. These days, Tangier is a thriving and interesting city, with a multicultural identity and a relaxed lifestyle. I went to Tangier as a child and only have vague memories of it. However, on my recent trip, I had great pleasure in rediscovering this beautiful place and I have a list of the best things to do in Tangier, Morocco.

This itinerary around Tangier takes a couple of days and doesn’t require a vehicle for the most part. So, if you are pressed for time and don’t have your own transport, you can take a local tour, so you can be sure to see the best of Tangier. Check out the additional information and current tour prices .

Table of Contents

The Best Things to do in Tangier

Morocco has been influenced by both French and Spanish occupation. The French established a Protectorate in 1912 and in 1923, Tangier was declared an International Zone. Semi-independent and administered by the Sultan of Morocco, Tangier attracted a wild crowd during those years: socialites, artists, speculators, sexual deviants and various eccentrics. Expats made half of the population and Tangier was also rumoured to be a safe haven for spies…

This earned Tangier a reputation as a cultural hub but a pretty wild place. Morocco became an independent country in 1956 and Tangier’s special status ceased. Years of sanctioned neglect followed, public funding was cut and the cultural scene and its expats moved on. Indeed, it was a long decline for Tangier, tourists turned away and criminals remained.

However, since 1999, Tangier has seen an influx of investments: a new marina, a TGV train line to Casablanca are being built and a major industrial complex called “Tanger-Med” is just 40 km on the Mediterranean coast. I thoroughly recommend spending several days in Tangier in order to soak up the atmosphere, a subtle mix of Mediterranean and North African vibes. It’s also a good place to start experiencing Morocco nightlife.

Is Tangier safe today? I would say so. I never felt in danger, even at night. But as always in Morocco, you have to take the usual precautions.

Read on if you want to know what to do in Tangier…

Where to Stay in Tangier

There are plenty of Tangier hotels and Tangier riads to choose from. You have a choice between staying in the medina or in the Ville Nouvelle (New City) and both are quite good. Accommodation in Tangier is usually quite reasonable.

For a medina experience, Dar Yasmine was recently refurbished and has a rooftop terrace, which is always really nice in the evening. Great location near the Grand Socco.

With only 8 rooms, La Maison de Tanger is a bit pricey but has spacious and very elegant rooms. It’s not quite in the medina but close to the Petit Socco and the Grand Socco, so the location is equally good.

For a mid-range option, Dar Nour has elegant rooms decorated in a mix of modern and traditional Moroccan style. There is a rooftop and the location is excellent.

How to Get to Tangier?

Tangier has its own international airport, Ibn Battuta and railway station. Whilst I recommend spending a couple of days in Tangier, there are full-day tours from Casablanca, which will give you a good overview of the city. Check out additional information and current tour prices .

You can also take a day trip to Morocco from Spain. From Tarifa, the ferry to Tangier only takes an hour do travel from Spain to Morocco is quite easy. Check out additional information and current tour prices .

Explore the Medina

With its protective walls, the medina can feel a little claustrophobic if you’re not used to it but you will soon discover charming little squares enjoying the shelter of a large tree. I found the Tangier medina really pleasant, less cluttered and clean, with freshly painted white and blue walls. Activity doesn’t start until late morning, so if you get there early, you get to enjoy the quiet streets.

A great way to visit the medina is to enter through Bab Kasbah and to walk your way down to the Petit Socco. You’ll probably get a little lost but nothing too serious… There are some quirky shops and galleries on the way. Having said that, the shopping is not as spectacular in Tangier as it is in Marrakech, and you still need to haggle .

On our first night in Tangier, we had a simple dinner at the Salon Bleu, a roof terrace overlooking the medina walls and the harbour. The sea breeze was so enjoyable and I loved being by the seashore again.

People Watch at the Petit Socco

The Petit Socco, or “Souq ad-Dakhil” used to be one of Tangier’s most notorious crossroads, where drug deals and prostitution took place. Now, nightlife in Tangier is a lot tamer and it’s a great place for people watching. During our little Tangier holiday, we enjoyed several meals on the terrace of Le Bistro du Petit Socco.

This charming little square reminds me very much of town squares in Southern France, like Nice for example. It’s also probably the most touristy Tangier gets so there are few scammers about. In my opinion, the Petit Socco is where the pulsating heart of Tangier is. It showcases very well the mix of local and expat life and is a great place to taste the unique atmosphere of the town.

Visit the American Legation

The American Legation is a three-storey building in the medina, now a museum . Interestingly, Morocco was the first country to recognise the barely established United States in 1777. It was also the first piece of American real estate overseas.

Even if all you have is a day trip to Tangier, do visit the American Legation.

Be a Celebrity at the Hotel Nord-Pinus

Located in the street descending from Bab Kasbah to Bab Bhar, the Hotel Nord-Pinus is a hotel and restaurant, in a beautiful Portuguese-style mansion. If you are wanting to retreat from the medina for a few hours, the Nord-Pinus is the ideal place for a rooftop cocktail overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar or a fine meal. The service may be a little slow but the food is really delicious. The Nord-Pinus welcomed the Rolling Stones and the Beatles in their day.

I wonder if this is one of the best hotels in Tangier but I didn’t get to see the rooms.

Have an Espresso at El Morocco Cafe

At Bab Kasbah, El Morocco Cafe is sheltered under a large tree and offers Nespresso coffee. I’m not a coffee person but this is the place to get a proper espresso. Later in the evening, the Morocco Club next door is the place to get your groove on.

As Tangier was my gateway to Morocco on this trip, I noticed they were serving mint tea with sugar on the side. This is a nice new development, as mint tea can be too sweet…

Take the Sun at the Hotel Continental

This beautiful hotel has a prime location overlooking the harbour and is synonymous with Paul Bowles, as some scenes of the Sheltering Sky were filmed.

It’s funny that what to see in Tangier involves hotels but remember that expat life was very important here…

Be Cool at Café Hafa

Established in 1921, Cafe Hafa was a major hangout for painters and beat poets such as Paul Bowles, Tennessee Williams and William S. Burroughs. It is one of the Tangier things to do and a great place to watch the sunset on Spain, sipping a mint tea. Today, Café Hafa welcomes the youth of Tangier, sitting at mosaic tables and chatting away. And of course, the blue is reminiscent of Chefchaouen , which is one of the tours from Tangier.

The distance from Tangier to Chefchaouen is only 2 hours and it’s one of the really great tours in Morocco so I highly recommend it. Check out additional information and current tour prices .

Walk the Grand Socco

The Grand Socco is a large sloping plaza with a central fountain and palm trees, and is one of the places to visit in Tangier. To get there, you need to take a 10 mins walk up the Rue Siaghine from the Petit Socco. The square is also called Place du 9 Avril 1947 and is just outside the medina walls.

The Grand Socco is a large sloping plaza with a central fountain and palm trees. To get there, you need to take a 10 mins walk up the Rue Siaghine from the Petit Socco. The square is also called Place du 9 Avril 1947 and is just outside the medina walls. There is a fresh produce market on the way where you can buy olives to enjoy as a snack. Again, the Grand Socco is a good place for people watching and the Cinema Rif is a lovely art deco building, testimony to Tangier’s thriving cultural scene. In my opinion, the Grand Socco isn’t as interesting as the Petit Socco. Sure, it also makes for good people watching but I find it has a little less character.

There is a fresh produce market on the way where you can buy olives to enjoy as a snack. Again, the Grand Socco is a good place for people watching and the Cinema Rif is a lovely art deco building, testimony to Tangier’s thriving cultural scene. In my opinion, the Grand Socco isn’t as interesting as the Petit Socco.

Have a Cocktail at the Hotel El-Minzah

Why would you want to visit a hotel unless you’re staying in it? If it’s a mythical hotel where everyone that was someone stayed in Tangier’s seedy heyday, then it’s worth it. Here, Hollywood celebrities mixed with Winston Churchill, you can walk in their footsteps and imagine what Tangier nightlife was like back then… Count the celebrity portraits in the Andalucian courtyard or sip a cocktail in the Caid’s Bar. And if you are in need of relaxation, there is also a wellness centre next to the hotel.

When it comes to Tangier accommodation, it doesn’t get more glamorous than that! The El-Minzah Hotel Tangier is in the “Ville Nouvelle” (new city), just outside of the medina, and has a rooftop terrace and an outdoor pool.

Stop by the Terrasse des Paresseux

Literally, this name means “terrace of the lazy”. Located in the modern city, or “ville nouvelle”, this is a great place to admire the view over the harbour and the medina walls.

From there, you can see the ferry departing from Tangier to Spain.

Drive to Cap Spartel

Cap Spartel is one of the day trips from Tangier and is only 14km west of the city. The road meanders along the dramatic coast and past some nice beaches. You can also do a camel ride if that’s your thing. Cap Spartel is sometimes incorrectly referred to as the northernmost post of Africa but it’s still the northwestern extremity of Africa’s Atlantic Coast.

The lighthouse is closed to the public and there is a restaurant, but we didn’t get to try it. We had our own car to drive to Cap Spartel because driving in Morocco is easier than it seems and there are some really beautiful roads . However, I’m sure local taxis can take you there.

Explore the Caves of Hercules

The Caves of Hercules are a grotto quarried for millstones and a highlight of Tangier tourism. There were also known as the Roman God’s sleeping quarters before he embarked on his eleventh labour (getting golden apples from the Hesperides gardens).

It’s quite touristy but the grotto’s much-photographed opening onto the Atlantic ocean is reminiscent of a map of Africa and it’s worth a selfie… And of course, because this is Tangier, the place was used as a brothel in past times…

The Caves of Hercules should be included in Tangier tours and I recommend a leisurely drive back along the dramatic coast, the sun glistening on the ocean…

The Gateway to Africa

Tangier is a great place to start your journey through Morocco. Indeed, I’m really pleased we started our journey there. Most people go through Marrakech first as it is the most obvious tourist destination. However, if you have been travelling through southern Europe, you will appreciate the European connection of Tangier. Entering Morocco through Tangier is a bit like easing yourself into the country… Tangier is also a great starting point to start exploring the North of Morocco. After a few days in this great city, we hired a car and drove to Tetouan and Chefchaouen. Tangier should definitely be a reason to visit Morocco …

I found Tangier travel easy-going and it’s quieter than other places such as Marrakech or Fès. Interestingly, a lot of people speak Spanish rather than French, which was a new challenge for me. Considering Spain still has some enclaves and islands in Morocco, this is not so surprising.

Whether you are doing a day trip to Tangier from Spain and if you are using it as a gateway to Morocco, this is a really interesting part of the country!

Related Posts

First time in marrakech morocco, tetouan morocco, chefchaouen, the blue pearl of morocco.

Is Morocco on your travel bucket list? If so, here are my travel tips for Morocco and my ultimate Morocco packing list .

Have I missed anything in my list of the best things to do in Tangier, Morocco? Please tell me in the comments below!

Save these tips for Tangier on Pinterest!

38 thoughts on “The Best Things to Do in Tangier, Morocco”

Wonderful descriptions and photos. Morocco is one of those places that I dream about visiting. Good to see that investments have improved the city of Tangier for the locals and for the new visitors. Thanks for sharing.

Hi Deborah, thank you for dropping by. Morocco is indeed dreamy and there is plenty to see, I hope you get there someday. Tangier looks really good now, the medina has been cleaned up and painted, and the modern city has this southern European feel. There is still a reasonably strong expat community and I felt quite safe there.

Morocco is high on my list for 2018. I will probably have 3 weeks so I’ll definitely swing by this place – it looks great!

Hi Lisa, three weeks is a good amount of time in Morocco. You will have time to see plenty of things and really experience this great country. Tangier is a great starting point for visiting the north of the country, and the TGV (fast train) is soon to be completed and is only two hours to Casablanca. Enjoy your travels and don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions!

I have been planning a trip to Morocco for a while now and have been wondering wether or not Tangier is worth a visit. After reading this I am convinced it is 🙂 And by the way, your photos are beautiful!

Hi Charlotte, I absolutely recommend Tangier, it was a highlight of my trip. I love its proximity to the Mediterranean and it’s a great starting to explore the north of Morocco. Towns such as Chefchaouen and Tetouan are really interesting and the north coast is stunning. I will be writing more about my travels in that region, so stay tuned!

Hi 😀 Morocco is my country, & the beautiful Tangier is my city♥ welcome all .. we welcome guests!!!!

Hi Marwan, Tangier is a great gateway to Morocco, especially coming from Spain or Portugal. It has a relaxed European vibe and some great historical landmarks. Hopefully I’ll be back there someday!

Very interesting comments and great photos. I am from Mexico and I plan to go to Tangier 3 or 4 days, after being in Lisbon and continuing to Athens. I am very much excited about this trip. I am traveling alone and my sons are a little bit worried but I am happy about the idea of knowing new places. Thank you for your advices and I will tell you how did it go…

Hi Emma, thank you for visiting LesterLost, I am very pleased that you are travelling to Morocco. You will love Tangier, it’s a great entry point into North Africa. If you have time, I highly recommend you also visit Chefchaouen if you have time, an overnight trip is enough. I found Tangier to be quite safe and people were friendly. It’s not as touristy as other places in Morocco so there is less pressure on tourists. All the best for this great trip!

Thanks so much for this Post. My husband and I are waiting in Tangier for 2 months and this was the picture-perfect post to get me going. Thanks again.

Hi Sarah, thank you for your message. I’m very pleased my post is helping with your time in Tangier, you have plenty of time to enjoy it! I hope you get a chance to visit the area around Tangier too!

I watch a reportage on voyage program of tangier ans since I am in love of the town. You come to activate once again. I havz to go and see this place. You document is soo complete. Thank You

Hi David, thank you for your comment. I agree, Tangier is amazing! It has come a long way since its dodgy days and it’s now inviting and active, I hope you get the chance to visit some day!

Great photos. We have not visited Morocco yet and it is high on our travel wish list. This is great information for us to plan our time. Thank you for sharing.

Hi Jane, thank you for your kind comment. I do hope you get a chance to visit Morocco someday, it’s a very interesting country. Do let me know when you need more tips, I’d be happy to help!

What a shady past Tangier has. But, it sounds much more laid back these days. The buildings are so picturesque, I can see how you could while a few days away there just wandering and sampling the food and beverages on offer.

Hi Emma, Tangier has a very dark past and yet to attract many celebrities… I think there was an island of safety and luxury in these swish hotels… I went there in the early eighties and it was still a bit dodgy, but mostly due to neglect from the central government. It’s been cleaned up now and I really enjoyed my time there…

We are planning to book tickets to Morocco in the next week. I am thinking of flying into Marrakesh. Have you been there too? What is your favorite Moroccan city?

Hi Jamie, Marrakech is a really lively and interesting city in Morocco, I would definitely dedicate several days to it. I have a post about it, yo should check it out!

We basically just saw the Medina when we went. We took the bus from Malaga, then took the ferry from Tarifa for a day visit, that’s why. We missed a lot!

Hi Carol, the medina in Tangier is pretty, just a bit quiet for my taste. Tangier is really worth a couple of days, even if you are coming from Spain!

We took the ferry from Spain into Tangier Med recently, but opted to head off immediately to nearby Asilah. We did manage a visit to Hercules Cave (found it to be an overrated tourist trap, though at the right light, I might suffer it again for a photo of a sunset out the cavern opening as that would be spectacular) and drove the road along the coast into Tangier on our way off to other adventures. Next visit, we do plan to spend a night or two in Tangier as we felt as if we missed the medina.

Hi Michael, I did see your adventures in Asilah, it’s a great place. I only spent a few hours there but the ramparts are beautiful. I thought Hercules Caves was OK, probably the most touristy thing in Tangier but it wasn’t too overcrowded. I do hope you get a chance to spend more time in Tangier next time, it’s a lovely place.

We didn’t visit Tangier on our Morocco trip unfortunately. We wanted to but couldn’t figure out a way to do a day trip to Gibraltar. And looks like you still can’t. However, I do wish I had seen the American Legation though. I had no idea Morocco was the first to recognize the US. They certainly are very friendly to Americans. On a different note, the city looks a lot like Asilah to me!

Hi Heather, I wonder if the lack of tours from Morocco to Gibraltar is due to both the Moroccan and British governments wanting to control migration flow… Tangier is bigger than Asilah but has that same kind of relaxed feel. I missed the American Legation too, I hope to see it next time!

I would love to visit Morocco one day and you are right, not much is known about Tangier. I will have to keep this city in mind. I do see and love the Spanish influence in the architecture. Would love to visit the Medina and the caves. Thank you for sharing a new travel option.

Hi Renee, the caves are a bit touristy but it’s interesting nonetheless. I liked the medina because it’s freshly painted white and very quiet in the morning. You will love Tangier!

Tangier looks like it cleans up nicely. I didn’t know Morocco was the first country to recognize the USA. Fascinating fact. I love the Mediterranean climate there.

Tangier is actually nice, the medina is freshly painted and I didn’t get the sense it was a dangerous place as it was in the past. And the sea breeze was really pleasant!

I have to admit that Morocco has not been high on my places to visit but this post about Tangier has made me reconsider! It is such a shame that it fell into disrepair/neglect but what an amazing job the city has done over the last 20 years in getting it back to its former panache. I absolutely love the cafes and people watching, plus a cave! So much more to see than I expected! I love the French-Spanish influences.

The history of Tangier is quite interesting, and its autonomy attracted a bit of a wild crowd. When it became part of the Moroccan kingdom, it was less attractive and the government wasn’t interested in Tangier. In the last 20 years, the government has recommended Tangier’s strategic position and investments started again. It has a nice coastal vibe and I didn’t feel it was too busy, I would definitely visit again!

I haven’t been, but I love how it looks! It’s definitely got some Italian and Greek vibes to it, it must be lovely to discover the place by foot.

Hi Mirela, Tangier isn’t that big and it’s easy to discover mostly on foot. I would love to go back on my next rip to Morocco!

Morocco looks so amazing, especially through your eyes. 😉 My husband bought me a huge trip to Morocco one year for Christmas but after he fought for me to do a camel trek that I objected to (and the 2-3 days it took to do it), I canceled the trip and just forgot all bout it. Anyway, I missed out. We had planned on goign to Cap Spartel for a day trip just as you mentioned, too. The Medina looks so amazing!

Such a shame that you gave up a trip to Morocco over a camel trek! I understand your objection but there are so many more things to do in Morocco… Hopefully you will reconsider Morocco as a destination, there are plenty of things to love!

I was born in Tangier but moved after 27 years to Germany Tangier today is a big and modern city, the Kasbah or old city it’s also beautiful. People are very friendly

I really enjoyed my time in Tangier. I visited as a child and at the time, it was pretty run-down and unsafe. Now, it’s a lot more modern and the medina looks really good. This part of the coast of Morocco is really beautiful. It’s also very interesting to see how Tangier is closely connected to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy policy

New Zealand

Solo travel

Couple travel

Travel resources

LesterLost a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

The Instagram Guide to Tangier, Morocco

Shopping in souks, beautiful caves, and laidback luxury.

Editor's note: As we continue to practice  social distancing  for the foreseeable future, we encourage our readers to consistently check the  Center for Disease Control website  for up-to-date information on when it's safe to travel again. For now, bookmark this Instagram travel guide for inspo—you're going to love it.

The northwestern Moroccan port city of Tangier, just a 20-minute ferry ride away from Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar, is a tantalizing medley of old-world traditions, modern marvels, and international luxury. It'll leave you wanting to explore the rest of North Africa immediately.

Tangier (or "Tanger" to the locals) has long attracted artists and writers who come for inspiration found within the colorful streets and end up staying for years, soaking up the vibrant way of life. Walk through the real-life scenes of Matisse’s paintings and sit at the favorite cafés of writers like Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Tennessee Williams, and William S. Burroughs to understand why they fell in love with the city. Awaken your senses with flavorful Moroccan food, fueled by fresh seafood and spices from the market.

For inspiration to book a flight (or hop on a ferry) to Tangier, here's your very own Instagram guide to the city’s sights and spectacles:

A post shared by Michelle Stansbury (@discoverwithmichelle) A photo posted by on

Inside the medina, the old-walled city of Tangier, wander through souks draped with handmade rugs, embroidered shoes, colorful kaftans, and baskets of spices. Get lost in the labyrinth of small streets, dazzled by the way the light bounces off of the colorful walls. When you shop in the souks, haggle for your wares—a time-honored Moroccan tradition—that will snag you a great deal.

Keep Up in the Kasbah

Walk through the medina and up towards the Kasbah, the walled fortress of the city. Visit the  Dar El Makhzen , the old Sultan's palace that's now a Moroccan art museum. After you're finished exploring, meander uphill until you reach the top of the old city, boasting spectacular views of the ocean and city. (...And plenty of opportunities for the 'gram.)

Get Pampered at a Hammam

If you're comfortable getting naked and having a stranger scrub layers of skin off every inch of your body (not all of us!), visit a hammam. It's a traditional activity in Morocco, similar to the Turkish baths. You'll sit in a steam room where you shed skin and stress through an intense body scrub with a kessa (a.k.a. a loofah). You can go to a public hammam, but for a more relaxing experience, try a private hammam, like the  Hilton's eforea Spa . Expertly-trained therapists perform a series of treatments that cleanse, exfoliate, and pamper your skin, leaving it glowing.

Stay In The Know

Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.

Sip Moroccan Tea

Don’t get so busy visiting Tangier’s sights that you forget to embrace one of the most cherished Moroccan traditions: sitting back and sipping a sweet mint tea at a corner café where locals spend hours watching the world go by. Find a tea terrace, like the top-rated  Café Hafa , with views over the city and enjoy the Mediterranean breeze while you leisurely share a pot with friends or locals. Don't be surprised if the scent of hashish wafts over from a nearby table—Tangier has long been a sanctuary for cannabis.

Visit the Caves of Hercules

In Tangier, a cave that mimics the shape of Africa is tied to an important Greek legend. Hercules was said to have slept in the caverns, known as the  Les Grottes d’Hercule , after separating Europe from Africa in Greek mythology. In addition to exploring the dark, damp cave complex, you can also visit a kitschsy cave with figurines and photo-ops for an additional five dirhams (the official currency of Morocco).

Eat a Tagine

While Tangier has a wide range of global cuisine featuring Spanish and French fare, don’t miss out on the traditional Moroccan tagine. Tangine is named after the earthenware dish it’s cooked in—the conical shape catches the steam and slow cooks the meat and veggies into an aromatic stew. Try the beef tagine with plums—the sweetness of the fruit complements the savory beef that's accented with saffron, cinnamon, and ginger. Scoop it up with some Moroccan bread (similar to pita bread) and get ready for some major drool emojis.

Soak Up the Sun

Get away from the center of town and explore the beautiful sand and water on the beaches of Achakkar. True beach lovers can opt for a hotel with a private beach, like the oasis at the  Hilton Tangier Al Houara , which includes 5 km (three miles) of tranquil coastline within 60 acres of protected forest.

Day Trip to Chefchaouen

If you're looking for a day trip to complement your visit to Tangier, Chefchaouen—a stunning "blue city" nestled in the Rif Mountains—is around 100 km (around 60 miles) away. There's an air-conditioned bus that goes from Tangier to Chefchaouen, but I recommend renting a car or hiring a driver (if you have the means) to give you more flexibility. The small, peaceful town has become Insta-famous due to its stunning blue-on-blue alleys, stairs, and archways. If you're a nature person, hike to a small waterfall and enjoy the dramatic scenery of the mountains.

If you've fallen in love with Tangier, book a trip  here .

For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the  Marie Claire  newsletter.

subscribe here

RELATED STORIES

Mexico’s Best Under-the-Radar Destinations

An Instagram Travel Guide to Basque Country 

Michelle Stansbury  is a San Diego-based freelance writer who writes about travel, food, and relationships. Misuse of the word "literally" drives her figuratively insane. 

Your guide to being more sustainable in 2024.

By Anneliese Henderson Published 23 April 24

"Now we know better."

By Meghan De Maria Published 22 April 24

Netflix's latest miniseries from Richard Gadd is based on the true story of the comedian and his stalker.

By Quinci LeGardye Published 22 April 24

It’s pampering time.

By Michelle Stansbury Published 11 May 23

The most stylish things to see and do in the creative hub of Paris, the 6th arrondissement.

By Sara Holzman Published 2 May 23

Explore one of the happiest cities in the world.

By Emma Childs Published 25 April 23

Where to stay and what to do in the City of Lights.

By Sara Holzman Published 8 December 22

BRB, setting my "out of office" message.

By Emma Childs Published 18 November 22

In case you needed another reason to be pumped about your trip.

By Julia Marzovilla Last updated 25 September 23

Wine, oysters, and more wine please.

By Sara Holzman Last updated 18 August 22

Find love in all the right places.

By Sara Holzman Last updated 13 February 23

• Contact Future's experts
• Advertise Online
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy

Marie Claire is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

• Chefchaouen
• Essaouira - Mogador
• El Jadida - Mazagan
• Ancient Cities of Morocco
• Imperial Cities of Morocco
• Natural Destinations
• Sports Holidays
• FAQ about Morocco
• Where is Morocco?
• Moroccan culture
• Retiring in Morocco
• Cost of Living in Morocco
• Safety and Security
• Get a Passport and a Visa
• Dirham Currency Exchange rate
• Morocco Map
• Weather in Morocco
• Current time in Morocco
• Useful Telephone numbers in Morocco
• Ramadan Dates and public holidays
• Religion in Morocco
• Agadir Restaurant Guide
• Casablanca Restaurant Guide
• Essaouira Restaurant Guide
• Fes Restaurant Guide
• Marrakesh Restaurant Guide
• Meknes Restaurant Guide
• Ouarzazate Restaurant Guide
• Rabat Restaurant Guide
• Tangier Restaurant Guide
• Packing List
• Travel insurance for Morocco
• The Best Travel Guidebooks for Morocco
• Best Time to Visit Morocco
• Henna Tattoos
• Traveling alone as a Woman
• Food Precautions
• Immunizations
• Preventing Heat Stroke
• Moroccan First Names

Tangier Travel Guide

Tangier is located on the North African coast where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. The city is located only 24 kilometers from the Spanish coast.

Getting there

This is probably the best way to get to Tangier with the airport 'Tangier-Ibn Batouta Airport' located 12km from the city. The cost of the journey of the city is 150 Dhs and 100 Dhs for the return journey.

You can travel by ferry from Spain (Algeciras, Barcelona), France (Sète) or Italy (Naples, Genoa, Livourne), the cost depending on the distance and if you are traveling with your car or on foot.

You can get to Tangier by train, it takes 4 hours from Rabat and 5 hours from Casablanca or Fes.

Two bus stations are available in Tangier : C.T.M. - Place d'Espagne Gare routière - Tel. 00212 (0)539 931 172 TRAMESA , 29. Av. Youssef Ben Tacheffine. Tel. 00212 (0)539 943 348

If you arrive by car or motorcycle on the ferry remember that you can enter the country for 6 months in any one year (365 days). You must also have green card insurance and temporary import forms are available on the ferry. From Rabat, Casablanca or Marrakesh : Tangier is accessible via A1 highway. From Fes : Follow A2 to Route de Sidi Allal Bahraoui/R405 in Sidi Allal El Bahraoui. Exit from A2 -> Get on A1 in Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen -> Merge onto A1.

Where to Stay in Tangier

The city of Tangier was founded in the 4th century BC by the Carthaginians who made a commercial town (Tingi). Due to the historical presence of many civilizations Tangier has a rich history.

Antaeus, son of Poseidon, would have chosen to give his wife's name, Tingis (“Tanjah” in Arabic), to a place on the Mediterranean coast. But it was most likely the Berbers who have created Tinga, the lagoon city. The Phoenicians installed a business counter from Lixus , around the 7th or the 6th century BC. After the fall and the destruction of Carthage, Tangier became Roman , and was even declared as the capital of Mauretania, Tingitane. Later, during the 8th century of our era, it served the Arab goals in Europe.

Considered by the latter to be a strategic post, Tangier was stormed by Berber troops, freshly converted to Islam, and became Arab for the first time. The city became Moroccan (through the Idrissides), then Spanish, though the Cordoba Omeyyades, then Moroccan again through the big dynasties. Taking advantage of its exceptional location on the strait, the Tingitane Peninsula observes closely, the big European embarkations on the sea, to trade and discover new horizons. Tangiers benefits from it directly, and the great explorers Ibn Batouta and Leo Africanus describe it as a zone of great riches and peace.

Starting in the 15th century, the great colonizing powers seize the city. It started with the Portuguese in 1471, and the Spanish. Then, the marriage between Catherine of Braganza and Charles II of England made it an English city in 1661. But the Moroccans rebel, and after heavy fighting, Moulay Ismail is the master of the city in 1684. During the period that follows, Tangier remains coveted and develops slowly, even if it becomes the place of residence of international consular representatives in Morocco. Victim of history's trials and tribulations, the city is bombarded in 1844 during the French-Moroccan conflict.

Places to visit

Medina of Tangier

The medina is a bit chaotic and messy but it's worth a visit if you want to experience an authentic lifestyle.

Parc Perdicaris

This park is named after the Greek-American noble who became the unofficial head of Tangier's foreign community. The park is beautiful, clean and very safe during the day.

Hercules Cave

The cave of Hercules, located just 14kms west of Tangiers is a major tourist attraction. It is believed that Hercules slept there before attempting one of his twelve labours.

Cap Spartel

A good spot to take some photos, the view is nice and the place is surrounded by pine forests.

American Legation

In 1821 Sultan Moulay Slimane gave this building as a gift to the U.S. As such, the Legation building became the first piece of property acquired abroad by the U.S. government

Terrasse des Paresseux

From the 'Lazy's Terrace' is a good place for a coffee or a mint tea while appreciating the view of Europe.

Teatro Cervantes

Built in 1913 by the Spanish this theater is accessible via the Avenue Pasteur and Rue du Prince Moulay Abdallah. The theater was once considered one of the most prestigious in North Africa. However, the restoration of the theater has been delayed because of a dispute between Spain and Morocco.

Share your experiences with our community.

Join our Mailing List and receive electronic invitations and news about cultural events in Morocco.

• Tangier weather
• Thursday 12:00
• Scattered clouds

• More details about Tangier Weather

→ All you need to know about Travel insurance for Morocco ←

Advertisement

trending now

Taylor Swift 'worried' Travis Kelce will 'get freaked out' by...

'1000-Lb. Sisters' star Tammy Slaton shows off tremendous weight...

Sonja Morgan says farewell to her beloved NYC townhouse: See...

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift go on private couples’ getaway...

Buckingham Palace promotes their strawberry preserve days after...

Courteney Cox regrets not being a 'firmer parent' to daughter...

Fans think Meghan Markle upgraded her engagement ring: 'Doubled...

Gisele Bündchen cries after getting pulled over by cops in Miami

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to copy URL

Inside Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos’ ‘magical’ Morocco getaway

• View Author Archive
• Follow on Twitter
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos are taking fans inside their luxurious getaway to Tangier, Morocco.

The “Live with Kelly and Mark” stars, both 53, took to social media over the weekend to share pics from their relaxing vacation and luxurious accommodations at the Villa Mabrouka .

“Scenes from a magical weekend,” Ripa wrote via her Instagram Stories, sharing a stunning view of the ocean, flowers and palm trees.

Ripa also included plenty of pics from the luxury hotel they stayed at, which starts at $530 per night . One of the snaps showcased the entryway with its black-and-white checkered floors and a gorgeous stained glass chandelier hanging from the grand white ceiling.

The longtime television personality was even able to sneak in a mirror selfie in the entryway that showed her smiling while wearing in a casual athleisure outfit.

Of course, Ripa’s posts also included plenty of pictures of her and her husband of 28 years enjoying their escape from reality.

When the duo weren’t staying at the hotel, they ventured to the Tangier American Legation –– America’s “oldest diplomatic property” and museum.

Consuelos appeared to also be taking photos while walking around the garden and taking in the stunning views.

After exploring during the day, the couple got all dolled up to attend a party at the hotel’s terrace restaurant, L’Orangerie.

Ripa wore an ivory blazer over a white dress, while Consuelos opted for a long white T-shirt under a tan blazer and tan pants.

For more Page Six you love…

• Listen to our weekly “We Hear” podcast
• Shop our exclusive merch

The long white dining table at the bash seemed to be set for around 50 guests and had small table lamps and vases with white flowers running down the center.

The Villa Mabrouka opened its doors last spring and has just 12 rooms in the entire property, which once belonged to famed fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

The hotel includes views of the Mediterranean Sea, two crystalline swimming pools, three restaurants and access to garden pavilions where you are “transported immediately into the feeling of paradise,” according to their website.

Ripa made it back in time for Monday’s live taping of “Live with Kelly and Mark.” However, Andy Cohen filled in for Consuelos, who hopped on a different flight to visit Italian soccer team Campobasso 1919 in Molise, Italy.

The co-hosts are no strangers to sharing social media posts from their extravagant vacations over the years. In September, the “All My Children” alums took their three children –– Michael, 26, Lola, 22, and Joaquin, 21 –– to a tropical destination to celebrate the end of summer.

Share this article:

Advertisement