Are you planning a trip to Maroc? Tangier, the gateway between Europe and Africa, will seduce you with its thousand-year-old cultural wealth. This cosmopolitan city is home to architectural treasures such as its perched Kasbah, urban beaches and numerous museums. Did you know that the city was originally Phoenician, before passing through eras and civilizations to the present day? We were transported by the atmosphere of this city, a crossroads where Mediterranean and Moroccan influences meet, visible in both its architecture and its pace of life.
Discover our ideas in pictures for what to do in Tangier. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Sunbathing on Tangier’s municipal beach
Why visit?
To soak up the sun, head for Tangier’s municipal beach! This huge stretch of fine golden sand runs alongside Boulevard Mohammed VI. We appreciated its location right in the heart of the city, and its width, which makes it easy to find a place to set up, even during busy periods. The pedestrian promenade and bicycle path that line it create a dynamic atmosphere. From the beach, you can see the Tangier lighthouse and bay, as well as the surrounding hills. As the weather was clear at the time of our visit, we even caught a glimpse of the Spanish coast during our walk! Another advantage is that the gentle slope down into the water makes it easy to swim, although we advise you to remain vigilant in the face of the occasional waves.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: half to full day, depending on your requirements
- Opening hours: free access all year round, prefer daytime visits
- Difficulties and PRM access: sandy ground, easy access via the boardwalk, slope near the stairs to access the boardwalk and the stretch of sand.
- Rates: free access
- Access: along Boulevard Mohammed VI, near Tangier Marina
- Parking: pay underground parking lot nearby (elevator on sidewalk)
- Eating out: numerous establishments on the promenade, we recommend the Restaurant Casa Sevilla (tapas) on the boulevard, a 10-minute walk away, or the Restaurant Alma Kitchen and Coffee (healthy cuisine) a little further up the alleyways, a 20-minute walk away.
- Facilities: public showers and toilets available, supervised beach in season
2. Getting lost in the Kasbah
Why visit?
Perched high above the medina, the Kasbah is the preserved historic heart of Tangier. This citadel, founded by the Merinid dynasty in the 13th century, is the authentic heart of the city. We loved its cobbled streets winding between traditional mansions and its breathtaking panoramas over the sea, Spain and the Strait of Gibraltar. It’s an enchanting place, steeped in history dating back thousands of years. This fortified area, once the seat of power and residence of the governors, immerses you in a more unspoilt, less commercial setting than the rest of the medina. The area is home to charming riads and typical restaurants, as well as several museums concentrated within a compact perimeter.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 2 hours to half a day, depending on your interests
- Opening hours: open all day, night lighting varies according to alleyway
- Difficulties and PRM access: hilly area with steep stairs, slippery cobblestones
- Rates: free access, entrance fee for cabs (10 dhs MAD per car and 5 dhs MAD for luggage carried by a porter).
- Access: on foot only, no cars except residents and cabs
- Parking: not possible in the Kasbah, paid parking Place du Tabor at the Kasbah gate
- Restaurants: many typical restaurants and riads, we recommend the Restaurant El Morocco Club (bistronomic), the Restaurant Kebdani (traditional Moroccan), the Restaurant du Riad Al-Qurtubi or the Restaurant Saveur de Poisson (fish and seafood) in the medina.
- Facilities: in the medina, public toilets for a fee near the Neo Kaba (bring change)
- Want to immerse yourself in the Kasbah and medina of Tangier? Take a half-day tour with a local guide – see options
WHERE TO STAY IN Tangier
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
3. Visit the Ibn Battouta exhibition space
Why visit?
This museum is truly our favorite in Tangier – what a wonderful discovery! Pushing open the doors of the Ibn Battouta exhibition space, which opens in 2021, we embarked on a journey in the footsteps of the famous Moroccan explorer of the same name, born in Tangier in 1304. This rich exhibition retraces Ibn Battouta’s 29-year journey through 38 countries. The first room presents the Merinid dynasty and its influence on Tangier, with a remarkable collection of gold coins minted in Arabic dating from the 8th to 14th centuries. You’ll have access to trilingual explanatory panels (French, English and Arabic), reproductions of arabesque mosaics and maps detailing his travels. The room dedicated to the traveller features a marble bust of him and commemorative stamps issued in his honour. As for the library area, you’ll find that it attempts to faithfully reproduce the atmosphere of the period, with its scrolls and navigational instruments. What a marvel! The 2-storey museum features a number of interactive exhibits to entertain young and old alike. There’s also a children’s play area upstairs.
Finally, please note that photography is not permitted inside the exhibition halls.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h to cover all the rooms
- Opening hours: open every day of the year from October 1 to May 31, 8am to 6pm, June 1 to September 30, 8am to 10pm.
- Difficulties and PRM access: elevator available, some stairs but wide rooms and aisles.
- Rates: non-resident foreign adult 50 dhs (MAD), non-resident foreign child 20 dhs (MAD), Moroccan adult and foreign resident 20 dhs (MAD), Moroccan child and foreign resident 10 dhs (MAD)
- Access: less than a 5-minute walk from the Kasbah entrance on the Place du Tabor side
- Parking: pay parking outside the Kasbah on Place du Tabor
- Catering: Restaurant El Morocco Club (bistronomic) in the immediate vicinity
- Regulations: no photos allowed inside rooms, no pets allowed
A LITTLE MORE PATIENCE
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay at Maroc a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Coming soon!
4. Explore the mysterious Grottes d’Hercule
Why visit?
Another not-to-be-missed site is the Grottes d’Hercule, a 30-minute drive from Tangier. Legend has it that this hero rested in these caves after separating Africa from Europe, one of his 12 labors. These rock-cut caves open spectacularly onto the Atlantic Ocean. We really enjoyed visiting this major Tangier site, at the crossroads of history, geography and geology. This mythical place fascinated us as much by its legends as by the natural formation of its caves. You’ll start your visit with a driveway adorned with mythological frescoes and explanatory panels as you arrive, before discovering the small museum housed in a cave with traditional musicians on your left. You then enter the caves carved out by the force of time and waves. From the outdoor platform, we enjoyed a sublime view of the waters. Restaurants, stores and cultural information panels in Arabic and English, as well as a detailed map with explanations alongside, all contribute to making the site family-friendly and accessible to all.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 30min to 2h depending on your interest in the site
- Opening hours: open all year round, Monday to Friday, 11am to 6:30pm; Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 4pm.
- Difficulties and PRM access: accessible cobbled floor, a few steps to the museum, non-slip soles as the caves are damp, low light levels inside the caves, caution near the opening to the ocean inside the caves, cool temperatures inside the caves, so wear light but covering clothing, wind may be present on the platform facing the ocean.
- Rates: non-resident foreign adult 80 dhs (MAD), non-resident foreign child aged 7 to 13 40 dhs (MAD), Moroccan adult and foreign resident 30 dhs (MAD), Moroccan child and foreign resident aged 7 to 13 10 dhs (MAD)
- Access: 30min drive from Tangier, accessible via the hop-on hop-off Tangier City tour bus – book your ticket now
- Parking: pay parking on site
- Catering: restaurants and tourist stores on the platform
- Facilities: pay toilets (5dhs MAD – bring change)
- For even more peace and quiet, opt for a one-day guided tour from Tangier, including the Grottes d’Hercule!
5. Contemplating the horizon from the Cap Spartel lighthouse
Why visit?
The Cap Spartel lighthouse marks a unique geographical location: where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. In this highly poetic setting, where shades of blue intermingle, we were truly amazed by this promontory at the southern entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. The view of the sea, the rocks, the surrounding forest and, of course, the lighthouse itself make this place a natural curiosity to put on your bucket list. We were really intrigued by the changes in water color, currents and rock types at the crossroads of ocean and sea.
The icing on the cake was our climb to the top of the lighthouse, where we were rewarded with a 360-degree panoramic view (although space is limited for 4-5 people maximum). The touristy but serene atmosphere facing the ocean and the proximity of the Perdicaris forest contribute to the charm of this must-see site. A museum has been set up inside, retracing the history of the lighthouse and its construction, with numerous models of boats and other lighthouses in Maroc. To access the interior and top of the lighthouse, you’ll need to enter the museum.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours, including climb to the lighthouse
- Opening hours: open all year round, daily from 8:30 am to 11:30 pm (see official website for updates ).
- Difficulties and access for wheelchair users: museum accessible for wheelchair users, spiral staircase up to the lighthouse, so comfortable shoes, bring a hat or cap as there are few places to take shelter outside the museum.
- Rates: adult admission to museum, park and climb to top of lighthouse 50 dhs (MAD); adult admission to museum and park 25 dhs (MAD), free for children under 6 (see details here).
- Access: 30min drive from Tangier, level ground from the parking lot, sidewalk along the road, accessible via the hop-on hop-off City tour of Tangier – book your ticket
- Parking: free on-site parking
- Catering: cafés and souvenir stores, café in the museum area
- Facilities: PRM-accessible toilets in the museum
- Discover Cap Spartel at the crossroads of ocean and sea on a guided tour departing from Tangier!
6. Wonder at Perdicaris Forest
Why visit?
Looking for total immersion in Moroccan nature? Stop off at the Forêt de Perdicaris on the mountain overlooking the sea. Just before Cap Spartel on our way from Tangier, we were seduced by this hilly expanse, home to the oldest plantations in Maroc, dating back to 1918. You’ll discover a rich diversity of species, with Zean, cork and kermes oaks complemented by stands of pinion pine and eucalyptus globulus. The long avenues led us to the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Between mountain, sea and forest, the landscapes seem to have been painted with broad brushstrokes, so harmonious are the colors and reliefs, as in a living painting. The serene ambience makes it an ideal spot for family picnics, although you’ll need to keep an eye on your children at all times, given the numerous cliffs.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 30 minutes to a full day, depending on your wishes
- Times: avoid night-time for safety reasons (very poor visibility, no lighting).
- Difficulties and PRM access: slightly sloping gravel ground, very hilly forest, numerous cliffs (high level of caution for children).
- Rates: free access
- Access: On the Cap Spartel road, a 30-minute drive from Tangier, accessible via the hop-on hop-off Tangier City tour bus – book your ticket now!
- Parking: free parking at the entrance
- Catering: no catering facilities, picnic areas with wooden tables and benches.
- Safety: constant surveillance recommended, presence of wild boar and birds of prey
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Maroc
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Adapt your choice of vehicle to your itinerary!
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
7. Stroll around Place du 9 Avril
Why visit?
Do you know Place du 9 Avril 1947, also known as Grand Socco? It’s one of Tangier’s most important squares. We enjoyed this pretty circular square, which symbolizes a moment that left its mark on the city: the arrival of King Mohammed V and his speech in the city, then under international domination, in the middle of the 20th century. This large traffic circle with its palm-fringed central area serves as both an urban and historical crossroads. Here, you’ll find a busy shopping area that separates the medina from the new town. This mythical square, formerly a local market, is a gateway to the medina and is close to the Jardin de la Mendoubia and Saint-Andrews Anglican Church. The hop-on hop-off bus stop also makes it a convenient starting point for your visits.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 30min to 1h to enjoy the atmosphere
- Opening hours: accessible at all times, entertainment mainly during the day
- Difficulties and access for PRM: flat, accessible square
- Rates: free access
- Access: Between the medina and the new town, a 5-minute walk from the Jardin de la Mendoubia, accessible via the hop-on hop-off Tangier City tour bus – book your ticket now!
- Parking: pay underground parking lot with entrance on the square
- Eating & Drinking: numerous shops and cafés in the area, we recommend the Saveur de Poisson restaurant, a 5-minute walk away.
8. Discover the charm of Tangier’s mosques
Why visit?
Tangier’s charm is also revealed when you take the time to look up and make out the details of the old buildings in both the medina and the new town. We also captured the city’s architectural and spiritual richness by observing Tangier’s mosques. Our favorite is the Sidi Bouabid Mosque on the Place du 9 Avril, remarkable for its polychrome earthenware minaret that serves as a landmark. Built in 1917, its stone arches stand out from the surrounding wall under a glazed tile roof. We were also impressed by the Grande Mosquée de Tanger in the medina, built by Sultan Moulay Ismaïl in the 17th century on the site of a former Portuguese church. Its white and green minaret stands out perfectly from the roofs of the riads. More recent but just as majestic, the S.A. la Princesse Lalla Abla Mosque, inaugurated in 2017 near the port, harmoniously completes the city’s religious landscape.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 30min to 1h to admire the exteriors
- Opening hours: permanently visible from outside, inside not accessible to non-Muslims
- Difficulties and PRM access: cobbled streets in the medina
- Admission: Free to admire the facades
- Access: Sidi Bouabid Mosque on Place du 9 Avril, Great Mosque in the medina after Place du Petit Socco
- Parking: underground parking lot Place du 9 avril or pay parking lot Bab Al-Marsa near the port
- Dining: cafés and restaurants nearby, we recommend Restaurant Kebdani (traditional Moroccan), Restaurant Saveur de Poisson or Restaurant Palais Zahia (Moroccan).
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9. Push open the doors of Saint-Andrews Anglican Church
Why visit?
A striking testimony to Tangier’s multicultural history and Moroccan religious tolerance, Saint Andrews Anglican Church is well worth a visit. We were moved by the history of this building, donated 140 years ago by the Sultan of Maroc to the government of Queen Victoria. Built under the supervision of Sir John Drummond Hay, this church elegantly blends Presbyterian austerity with Moorish influence. Its crenellated Anglo-Moorish tower, once topped by the Union Jack, the flag of the United Kingdom, still watches over the city. Inside, you’ll discover a nave lined with marble columns inspired by the Alhambra in Granada. The adjacent cemetery completes the visit: between its aisles lie the graves of key figures in Anglo-Moroccan relations, such as Sir Harry MacLean and Walter Harris, correspondent for the British daily Times, whose tombs alone tell a fascinating story of this shared history.
Practical advice
- Visiting time: 45min to 1h including the cemetery
- Opening hours: open Saturday to Thursday from 10am to 1pm and 3pm to 5pm, closed on Fridays. Contact +212 65 22 08 696 for mass times.
- Difficulties and PRM access: easy access for the main church, appropriate dress required as this is an active place of worship.
- Admission: free, donations accepted
- Access: 5min walk from Place du 9 Avril and Jardin de la Mendoubia
- Parking: pay underground parking lot Place du 9 avril
- Dining: cafés and restaurants nearby, we recommend Restaurant Kebdani (traditional Moroccan), Restaurant Saveur de Poisson or Restaurant Palais Zahia (Moroccan).
10. Time travel at the American Legation Museum
Why visit?
Another Tangier favorite: the American Legation Museum. We plunged into the history of Moroccan-American relations since 1821. On entering this historic building, where American consuls lived and worked until 1961, we felt that every room and every collectible told a story. The lovely entrance patio with its fountain welcomes you into a period atmosphere enhanced by 1920s American music. The furniture from the early 20th century has been perfectly preserved: sideboards, armchairs, carpets and large mirrors adorn the various rooms. Upstairs, the Malcolm Forbes gallery is one of our favorite spaces, with its library of antique books and dioramas depicting battles from Morocco’s history. Finally, the room dedicated to the Second World War, which we found very entertaining, reveals Tangier’s crucial role as an intelligence center, with the famous cupboard used by the OSS to encrypt messages. It was really interesting to (re)discover old objects that belonged to the soldiers, and authentic uniforms from the period.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h to visit the whole complex
- Opening hours: open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed on Moroccan public holidays (see official website for updates ).
- PRM difficulties and access: many stairs, no elevator
- Rates: Moroccan adults and resident foreigners 20 dhs (MAD), non-resident foreigners 50 dhs (MAD)
- Access: in Tangier’s medina, rue d’Amérique
- Parking: not possible in the medina, 10min walk to Place du 9 avril parking lot or Bab Al-Marsa parking lot near the port.
- Catering: we recommend Restaurant Kebdani (traditional Moroccan), Restaurant El Morocco Club (bistronomic), Restaurant Saveur de Poisson or Restaurant Palais Zahia (Moroccan).
- Facilities: toilets on ground and second floor, pretty garden with lemon trees
11. Survey the Phoenician tombs facing the sea
Why visit?
Travel back in time with a visit to the Phoenician Tombs and their 1st-century AD Punic-Roman necropolis in the medina to the northwest of the city. Carved into the cliffside, these tombs bear witness to the importance of Carthaginian civilization in Tangier. From this archaeological site, you have an unobstructed view of the Mediterranean Sea and the Spanish coast. After descending the path lined with ancient Roman columns leading to a small park with greenery, you can sit back and enjoy the panorama. Although poorly maintained and only moderately secure, this historic site impressed us with its mountainside location. The lack of safety barriers near the cliffs means you’ll need to be extra vigilant, especially with children. Note that a trilingual explanatory panel at the entrance introduces you to the history of the site. We recommend taking a guided tour, and complementing it with other archaeological sites to make historical links.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 45min to 1h for the site and views
- Times: free access all year round, recommended to visit before sunset as visibility is poor in the evening.
- Difficulties and PRM access: sloping cobbled ground, a few steps to reach the tombs, constant vigilance and supervision required near the cliffs as there are no barriers.
- Rates: free access
- Access: seaside archaeological site on the heights of Tangier, a 10-minute walk from Marshan Park
- Parking: parking available in the surrounding lanes
- Catering: please allow for snacks, no services on site, we recommend the Riad Al-Qurtubi Restaurant, a 10-minute walk away.
12. Stroll through the Villa Harris Garden and Museum
Why visit?
A green oasis to the northeast of Tangier, we chose to take a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the city on the last day of our Tangier tour. This vast and beautiful park will surprise you with its century-old trees, beautiful palm trees and wide lawns. The park’s family atmosphere is enhanced by numerous benches and a variety of play areas for different age groups. The Villa Harris, rebuilt in 2017, now houses a remarkable museum dedicated to artists who have spent time in Tangier. Here you’ll discover remarkable craftsmanship in Moroccan zelliges on the walls, ceilings carved by local artisans and works by artists such as George Owen Wynne Apperley and Terrick Williams. This former home of British journalist Walter Burton Harris bears witness to Tangier’s cosmopolitan golden age. A must-see for art and nature lovers.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours for the park and museum, depending on your interests.
- Opening hours: park open all day, museum open Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Tuesdays.
- Handicap access: park and museum with handicapped access
- Rates: free park, adult museum rate 20 dhs (MAD), children under 18 10 dhs (MAD), free on Wednesdays for students, free on Fridays for Moroccans and foreign residents.
- Access: northeast of the city, Boulevard Mohammed VI, 20min walk from Malabata Beach
- Parking: parking along the streets bordering the park
- Eating and drinking: street vendors in the park, Restaurant Casa Harris (bistronomic) 15min walk away
- Park activities: playgrounds, swings, slides, inflatable games
Things to do in Tangier: other ideas
Other museums
Tangier is home to several other cultural institutions that we visited:
- The Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures presents the history of exchanges between the shores of the Mediterranean
- The Musée Kasbah’s contemporary art space features temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists.
- The Centre d’interprétation des fortifications de Tanger (Tangier Fortifications Interpretation Centre) will tell you all about the city’s defensive architecture.
- Fondation Lorin Museum traces Tangier’s Jewish history
- Dar Niaba Museum showcases traditional Moroccan craftsmanship
Other places of worship and contemplation
Tangier’s different communities have left their spiritual mark on the city. You can visit:
- Tangier’s Jewish cemetery bears witness to the centuries-old presence of this community.
- Saint-Andrews Churchyard contains the graves of illustrious Anglo-Saxon personalities
- Sidi Amar cemetery welcomes traditional Muslim burials
- The Spanish Catholic Mission recalls the Iberian influence on the city over the centuries
Other beaches
Beyond the municipal beach, Tangier is one of Morocco’s leading seaside resorts. In and around the city:
- The wilder Plage Achakar attracts lovers of tranquillity (one of our favourites).
- The Plage de Tanger towards Malabata offers a more residential setting
- Merkala beach, less crowded, allows you to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline in an intimate setting.
Other parks and gardens
Tangier’s green spaces are a harmonious complement to the city’s discoveries:
- Jardin de la Mendoubia, near the medina and Place du 9 avril
- The Corniche Garden along the seafront
- Donabo Gardens botanical gardens with a varied plant collection
Things to do in Tangier with children
Travelling with the family? Don’t panic, we’ve found plenty of activities in Tangier to do with your children:
- Urban beaches such as Plage Municipale and Plage Malabata offer full days of swimming and sand play.
- Parks like Villa Harris offer playgrounds and areas to run around and have fun.
- The Ibn Battouta exhibition space, a fun and educational museum about the famous Moroccan explorer.
- The Grottes d’Hercule will fascinate young and old alike with its blend of nature and mythology.
Things to do in Tangier when it rains
Rainy days are rare in Tangier. But never fear, they can be put to good use:
- Museums such as Espace Ibn Battouta, the American Legation Museum and Villa Harris
- Saint-Andrews Anglican Church
- The Tangier Fortifications Interpretation Centre
Excursions around Tangier
Assilah
This charming coastal town 40km south of Tangier boasts Portuguese walls and colorful murals. Did you know that every summer,Asilah hosts an international cultural festival that transforms its white walls into an open-air art gallery?
Visit this charming fishing town from Tangier on a guided tour!
Tetouan
Nicknamed the “white dove”, Tétouan seduced us with its UNESCO World Heritage medina, unique in Morocco in its white and green tones. This former capital of the Spanish protectorate has preserved its strong Andalucia architecture and lively craft tradition. Spend a day in Tetouan with a local guide departing from Tangier – see prices, availability and book now!
Chefchaouen
Clinging to the Rif mountains, Chefchaouen is undoubtedly Morocco’s most photogenic town. Its bright-blue alleyways, peaceful atmosphere and local crafts make it a great day trip from Tangier, especially if you’re looking for a moment out of time. The beauty of the drive through the mountains is well worth the detour! Book now
Akchour waterfalls
Just over 2 hours’ drive from Tangier, these waterfalls near Chefchaouen offer a refreshing hike in an unspoilt natural setting. The trail winds through lush vegetation to the crystal-clear waterfalls. A panorama you won’t forget! Please note that the route is mountainous, with many curves and sometimes poor visibility. If you don’t want to drive, opt for a guided tour combined with the village of Chefchaouen.
Rabat
Morocco’s capital and imperial city, Rabat combines modernity and tradition, with historic monuments such as the Hassan Tower, Andalucia gardens and exceptional museums. We were particularly charmed by its gentle way of life. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Rabat is only 1h20min by TGV from Tangier.
Casablanca
The economic hub of the kingdom, Casablanca is undoubtedly impressive for its colossal Hassan II Mosque and lively Atlantic corniche. We loved the mix of Art Deco architecture and contemporary buildings in a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Ceuta
Do you know Ceuta (or Sebta in Arabic)? This Spanish enclave next to Tangier combines imposing fortifications, Mediterranean beaches and Iberian heritage, offering a singular contrast on the African continent. Ready to visit this singular city 1h30min from Tangier? Please note that you’ll need a valid passport (and a visa, depending on your nationality) to gain access.
Useful tips for visiting Tangier
Where is Tangier?
- North of Maroc, at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar
- Tangier to Casablanca: 3h30 drive
- Tangier to Rabat: 3h drive
- Tangier to Chefchaouen: 2h drive
- Tangier to Tetouan: 1h drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get to Tangier
Your options:
- Tangier has an Ibn Battouta international airport with direct flights from Europe and North Africa – see available flights
- Tangier is efficiently linked to the main Moroccan cities by train, with regular services (Al-Boraq TGV and ONCF classic train).
- By road, freeways connect the city to the national network (3 hours to Rabat, 4 hours to Casablanca).
- Ferries operate from Spain, with several companies operating from Algeciras, Tarifa or Gibraltar – see options
Parking in Tangier
Please note that private vehicles are not allowed to park in the medina. Only residents and cabs are allowed in the Kasbah (entrance fee 10 dhs MAD per vehicle for cabs). We recommend using the paid parking lots in the new town (Bab Al-Marsa near the Port, Place du 9 avril 1947) or the beach parking lots such as the Plage municipale.
Getting around Tangier
- The hop-on hop-off CityTour bus is a practical solution for discovering the main tourist attractions, both inside and outside the city. The ticket is valid for 48 hours – book your ticket now!
- Official cabs (sky blue in Tangier) are plentiful, and VTC options are also practical in the city.
- The medina is easy to explore on foot, although the hilly, cobbled streets require good shoes. Don’t forget that the Kasbah is only accessible on foot (but compact, so it’s a pleasant and practical walking tour).
- Finally, city buses serve the city’s various districts
Where to eat in Tangier
Tangier’s gastronomy blends Berber, Arab and Mediterranean influences in a palette of flavors, colors and textures. For us, eating well is an integral part of traveling and discovering the destination. So we took the time to try out some good addresses, and particularly appreciated the fresh fish restaurants and the chic, traditional tables in the medina. Our recommendations:
- Restaurant El Morocco Club: bistronomic cuisine in a 1930s New York jazzbar setting
- Restaurant Kebdani: traditional Moroccan cuisine in a warm setting in the heart of the medina
- Restaurant Saveur de Poisson: short menu, fresh seafood and good atmosphere in the new town
Look out for our article on the best restaurants in Tangier!
Visit Tangier in winter
Winter in Tangier promises a pleasant climate, with mild temperatures of around 17°C (62.6°F), generous sunshine (nearly 6 hours a day) and low humidity. This season has the advantage of avoiding the summer crowds, while still allowing you to take full advantage of cultural sites and seaside walks. We recommend this period to discover the city’s rich heritage in optimal conditions.
Other tips
- Islam is the official state religion, so you’ll hear the 5 daily calls to prayer echoing from the minarets of mosques across Maroc.
- Note a particularity of the weekly rhythm: on Friday, the Muslim prayer day, some shops adapt their opening hours or close. But this is not an official holiday.
- On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), some stores close on Saturday, notably those serving the Jewish community, and others on Sunday.
- Maroc remains a modern Muslim country, economically liberal, open to the world, which cultivates a balance between traditions and international dynamics.
Read all our tips for visiting Maroc in our dedicated article – coming soon.
