A Northern Gateway: Essential Travel Guide to Tangier

Looking for the best things to do in Tangier or highly recommended places to stay? Discover the ideal time to visit, tips for getting around and the best tours in this essential travel guide to Tangier.

Just an hour’s ferry ride from Spain, Tangier has long been a hub where European and African cultures converge. Perched on Morocco’s northernmost edge, this cosmopolitan city has welcomed travellers for centuries, with a storied literary heritage and magnificent Kasbah district.

While some visit Tangier only fleetingly en route to cities further south, I think this fascinating Moroccan city deserves to be explored. With legendary cafes once frequented by Beat poets and some wonderful art museums, there’s something that sets Tangier apart.

During a day or two in Tangier, you can wander the whitewashed streets of the medina, haggle in the souks and watch the sunset over the Strait of Gibraltar. All while soaking up the city’s coastal charm. 

In this Essential Travel Guide to Tangier, discover everything you need to know to experience this port city to the fullest. I’ve included insights on the best things to do in Tangier and incredible stays, as well as my top tour recommendations. 

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!

Best things to do in Tangier

Explore the Kasbah

One of the best things to do in Tangier is spend an afternoon wandering through the city’s ancient citadel, also known as the Kasbah. It is entered through the grand Bab el Assa gate (immortalised in paintings by Matisse) and is home to the beautiful, mosaic-tiled Assa fountain. 

Lose yourself in the whitewashed alleys, dotted with hidden art galleries and street murals. Then browse the ceramics, silks and illuminated manuscripts on display at the Kasbah Museum. Adjacent is the Museum of Contemporary Art, which hosts changing exhibitions by international artists.

From the terrace at Bab Al Bahr, there are sweeping views across the Strait of Gibraltar and the new port, part of an ambitious Tangier development project. 

Opening hours of the Kasbah Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art: 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays)

Entrance fee for the Kasbah Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art: 60 DH (combined ticket)

Admire the Grande Mosque

Originally established in the 5th century as a Roman temple, this storied monument was converted into a mosque in the 8th century. After the Portuguese conquered the area in the late 15th century, it was used as a cathedral before once again being turned back into an Islamic house of worship.

The mosque’s current design dates from the 19th-century Alaouite period. Admiring its elaborate exterior is definitely one of the best things to do in Tangier.

Following Moroccan religious custom, the Grande Mosque is reserved for Muslim worshippers only. But people of all faiths can still appreciate the beauty of its elegant minaret and intricately carved main portal. Keep an eye out for the fountain across the street, which is decorated with tiled mosaics and carved stucco. 

Only have one day to explore Tangier? Check out my recommended itinerary here.

Visit the American Legation Museum

In the south of the medina is this fascinating museum, which details Morocco’s ties to America. It may come as a surprise to know that Morocco was the first country to recognise the newly independent United States in 1777.

Its engaging exhibits provide a window into Moroccan cultural heritage, making this one of the best things to do in Tangier for history buffs. A highlight is the iconic “Zohra” painting by James McBey, which has been dubbed the “Moroccan Mona Lisa.” 

Don’t miss the enlightening showcase on Paul Bowles. The American writer fell in love with Morocco, living in Tangier for more than 50 years. With its 1940s ambiance and treasure trove of artefacts, the American Legation Museum is a “must” for anyone interested in Morocco’s links to the global community. 

Opening hours of the American Legation Museum: 10 am to 5 pm weekdays and 10 am to 3 pm weekends

Entrance fee for the American Legation Museum: 50 DH

For more cultural inspiration, check out this list of the best museums in Tangier.

Watch the world go by in Petit Socco

Once frequented by dubious characters, this lively square is now a family-friendly oasis and the perfect spot to people watch. Settle in at one of the cafes fringing the square and order a mint tea (or few) as you soak up the comings and goings of local life. 

Nearby is Dar Niaba, which dates back to the Portuguese era and is one of the oldest buildings in Tangier. It now houses a museum dedicated to the diplomatic history of the city, as well as detailing the artists and writers who have been inspired by the area (read more about this below!) 

Photograph Cinema Rif in Grand Socco

Grand Socco is a bustling public square where old and new converge. It centres around a bubbling fountain, which is surrounded by benches where locals chat well into the evening. Rising on the square’s western edge is the whitewashed mosque of Sidi Bouabid while to the north is Mendoubia Garden.

Dominating the southern side of Grand Socco is the Art Deco-style Cinema Rif. Here, films in both French and Arabic have been screened since the 1930s. With its diverse programming and storied history, this cinema embodies Tangier’s mixed cultural roots. It really is an iconic place to watch a film.

Explore the Librairie des Colonnes

For over 70 years, the Librairie des Colonnes has been a beloved haunt of Tangier’s literary scene. Since its founding in 1949 by the Gerouf family, this unassuming bookshop has drawn acclaimed authors from around the world to peruse its overflowing shelves. 

In the wake of World War II, American and French authors flocked to Tangier. These included Paul Bowles (who used the bookstore as his mailbox) and William S. Burroughs (who penned “Naked Lunch” in the city).

As you wander through the Librairie des Colonnes’ rooms, you’re following in the footsteps of literary giants such as Truman Capote, Samuel Becket and Tennessee Williams.

Enjoy a sunset stroll

Discover the beauty of Tangier’s coastline with a sunset stroll along the Corniche promenade. The city’s bustling port ensures a steady stream of maritime traffic from Europe, which infuses the shoreline with a lively energy.

Another great spot to watch the sun sink below the horizon is Bab Al Bahr, an elevated spot near the Kasbah Museum. Here, both locals and tourists gather at the cliffside cafes to experience the day coming to an end.

Alternatively, you can make your way to Cap Spartel, a nature reserve where the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea meet beneath the stoic gaze of a lighthouse. This is an incredibly picturesque spot to watch the sunset over the water. And the presence of the Cap Spartel Lighthouse makes it even more photogenic.

Day trip to Asilah

With a history spanning centuries, Asilah is a charming coastal town just 45 minutes’ drive from Tangier. Founded by the Phoenicians in 1500 BC, this vibrant seaside gem still retains remnants of its past. These include the 15th-century Portuguese ramparts that enclose its whitewashed medina.

Wander the narrow cobblestone streets to discover captivating murals that reflect Asilah’s artistic spirit, as well as art galleries and cultural centres housed within historic palaces. From the ramparts, you can enjoy spellbinding sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean before being back in Tangier in time for dinner.

While buses connect Tangier to Asilah, the easiest way to reach this coastal gem is with a rental car or on a guided tour.

To learn more about visiting Asilah, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Asilah.

Top tours in Tangier

Tangier is a city that’s easy to navigate independently, particularly if you’re sightseeing in the medina and Kasbah districts. But if you want to venture further afield to Cap Spartel or the Hercules Caves, you’ll need to rent a car, book a private transfer or join a guided tour.

Tours are also available from Tangier to the artistic city of Asilah and to blue-hued Chefchaouen, saving you the hassle of finding transport yourself. Travelling with a local guide also means you’ll benefit from insider knowledge and cultural tidbits you might not otherwise discover.

Below are some of my top picks for tours in Tangier, from cooking classes and camel rides to day trips to Casablanca. You’ll find more tours in Tangier at Viator and GetYourGuide, complete with honest reviews from previous travellers to help you make an informed decision.

Morocco cooking class in Tangier

Held in a family home, this hands-on cooking classes provides a wonderful introduction to some of Morocco’s most iconic dishes.

Full-day tour of Tangier

This action-packed tour explores all the major sights in the Tangier medina, as well as travelling to Cap Spartel, the Hercules Caves and Achakkar Beach.

Full-day trip to Chefchaouen and the Cascades d’Akchour

Aside from exploring the blue-hued streets of Chefchaouen and enjoying a multi-course lunch, this full-day tour from Tangier includes a visit to a series of natural waterfalls.

Full-day tour of Tangier from Tarifa

Including return ferry tickets, a tour of the medina and a camel ride on the beach, this tour to Tangier from southern Spain offers an introduction to Morocco.

Camel ride near Tangier

This two to three-hour experience includes not only a camel ride on Achakkar Beach but also a visit to Cap Spartel and the Hercules Caves.

3-day tour to Chefchaouen and Fes from Tangier

Taking in the best of Morocco’s north, this three-day private tour from Tangier includes a night in Chefchaouen and another one in Fes.

Day trip from Casablanca to Tangier by high-speed train

After riding the Al Boraq high-speed train from Casablanca to Tangier, this tour includes a guided exploration of the medina and a visit to Cap Spartel.

7-night imperial cities and Sahara tour from Tangier

Over the course of a week, this fully-guided tour includes visits to Fes, Rabat and Casablanca, as well as a night at a desert camp in the Sahara.

How to get to Tangier

Fly to Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport

Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport is around 12 kilometres from the heart of the city and receives daily flights from destinations across Morocco and Europe.

Taxis offer a quick and easy way of getting into the city. Daytime fares are around DH100 and nighttime rides closer to DH150. For budget-minded travellers, you can walk out to the main road and hop on bus 7 or 17 headed to the Grand Socco.

Pre-booked private transfers from Tangier Airport are a hassle-free option, particularly if you’re concerned about language barriers. Alternatively, you can arrange a fixed-price airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.

Train 

Trains connect from cities across Morocco (including Marrakech and Fes) to Tangier Ville Station. It’s located around 10 minutes’ drive from Grand Socco and the medina. If you’re travelling from Casablanca or Rabat, you can ride the high-speed Al Boraq train to Tangier. Tickets can be purchased at the ONCF website or at 12Go.

Petit taxis can be found outside the railway station and will transport you to the medina for around 50 dirhams. Local buses are also available for those travelling on a budget. 

Bus

Travelling to Tangier by bus is a comfortable and affordable option, with regular services available from major cities across Morocco. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus companies or you can compare available options at 12Go.

Keep in mind that CTM buses depart and arrive from their own station. This is NOT the same as the Main Bus Station or Gare Routiere. No matter which bus station you arrive at, there are usually petit taxis waiting to transport you to your final destination.

Ferry

When making the journey from Spain to Morocco, you have two ferry options for crossing the Strait of Gibraltar: sail from Tarifa to Tangier Port (if you want to arrive close to the city) or take the route from Algeciras to Tanger-Med Port (if you don’t mind driving an additional 25 miles). 

While you can bring rental cars into Morocco for up to six months out of the year, be sure to verify the terms with your rental company ahead of time. Also, don’t forget to obtain green card insurance in Morocco before disembarking – it’s available at the port.

Private transfer

The most comfortable and convenient way to reach Tangier is by private transfer, especially if you’re travelling in a group. You’ll get door-to-door service directly to your Tangier hotel or guesthouse, avoiding the hassle of lugging bags to and from a bus station or negotiating fares with taxi drivers.

Tangier to Chefchaouen private transfer (or visa versa)

Tangier to Fes private transfer (or visa versa)

Best places to stay in Tangier

From atmospheric riads and dars to modern apartments, Tangier offers a variety of accommodations to meet every traveller’s needs. Many are located in the medina or Kasbah districts, putting you within walking distance of major sights.

Tangier’s 5-star hotels and villas offer a luxurious escape, although many of these are located outside the historic core. If you’re travelling on a budget, you can easily find more wallet-friendly options that exude plenty of charm. 

For longer stays, consider a self-catering apartment with a kitchen that allows you to prepare some of your own meals.

To help you out, I’ve put together a list of some of my favourite places to stay in Tangier, with something for all budgets. For more accommodation inspiration, check out my article detailing some of the best hotels in Tangier.

Luxury places to stay in Tangier

Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier

Offering incredible views across Tangier, this hillside resort offers 5-star stays, complete with three restaurants and a spa.

Mimi Calpe

Occupying an 1860s villa, this boutique Tangier hotel offers just a handful of suites surrounded by gorgeous gardens at the southern edge of the medina.

St. Regis La Bahia Blanca Resort 

Overlooking Tamuda Bay (around 1.5 hours from Tangier), this luxurious resort offers a Mediterranean escape, complete with extensive wellness facilities.

Mid-range places to stay in Tangier

Dar Tanja Boutique Hotel

With just 10 beautifully decorated rooms, this boutique hotel is located around 10 minutes’ drive from the Tangier medina.

Aux 3 Portes

Located within the Kasbah district, this adults-only hotel features six rooms, plus a cliffside pool offering stunning ocean views.

Dar Mraha

Located in a coastal village to the east of Tangier, this highly-rated apartment hotel comes complete with fully-equipped kitchens and Strait of Gibraltar views.

Affordable places to stay in Tangier

Dar Sandra Moroccan Tiny House

This colourfully decorated apartment offers self-catering stays in the heart of the Kasbah district.

Hotel Ben Batouta

Offering contemporary rooms and suites, plus an onsite restaurant, this affordable hotel offers comfortable stays near Tangier Airport.

Best time to visit Tangier

Spring and autumn offer the best conditions for exploring Tangier’s winding alleys and breezy waterfront. It’s not too hot and not too chilly. March to May and September to November see pleasant weather in the low-to-mid 20s, perfect for strolling the medina and relaxing at the cafes.

The summer months of June through August can be quite hot, with temperatures regularly topping 30°C. There’s an influx of Europeans visitors on their summer holidays, together with travelling Moroccans who like to hit the beaches.

Despite the cooler temps, December is also quite busy as Europeans look to escape the cold back home. Book rooms and activities well in advance if travelling at this time.

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.