Nestled in the Martil Valley of the Rif Mountains, Tetouan is a charming port city along Morocco’s Mediterranean coastline. While not as well-known amongst tourists as nearby Tangier, it's a destination that's well worth exploring, particularly if you're into architecture and cultural heritage like I am!
Tetouan's origins can be traced back to the 3rd century BCE when it was founded as the settlement of Tamouda, an ancient Amazigh town that was razed by Roman legions in 42 CE. It was revived in the 14th century by the Merenid Sultan Abu Thabit and flourished in 1484 with the arrival of Andalusian refugees fleeing the fall of Granada. Their architectural and artistic influences shaped Tetouan into the whitewashed city seen today. In 1913, Tetouan became the capital of the Spanish protectorate in Morocco until independence in 1956.
Now situated at the heart of a fertile agricultural region, modern Tetouan remains deeply connected to its past and is a city that will delight architecture aficionados and culture vultures alike. The medina's Andalusian-style architecture, with its ornate arches, intricate tilework and carved wooden doors, reflects the city's Moorish influences. Beyond the medina's walls, the more modern Ensanche district provides a glimpse into Tetouan's colonial past under the Spanish protectorate.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Tetouan, discover everything you need to know about visiting this atmospheric port, including things to see and do, places to stay and the best time to visit.
Tetouan also makes an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Rif Mountains and the enchanting “Blue City” of Chefchaouen, as well as Talassemtane National Park and Al Hoceima.
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BEST TOURS IN TETOUAN
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Tetouan tour recommendations:
Things to do in Tetouan
Wander through the medina
Tetouan's medina is a remarkably well-preserved gem that transports visitors back in time to Morocco's golden age of Andalusian architecture. When Muslim and Jewish refugees fled the fall of Granada in southern Spain in the 15th century, they settled in Tetouan and built the medina in the ornate style of their former homeland. As a result, Tetouan contains the most extensive and immaculate relic of Hispano-Moorish design in the country, making it a mecca for architecture aficionados.
Meandering through the medina's narrow lanes takes you past lovingly maintained buildings with intricate carvings, colourful tiles and graceful arches. Several historic homes have been restored and converted into small museums and cultural centres, such as Dar El Oddi, a stunning example of a traditional medina mansion. Today, this centuries-old residence houses a photographic collection depicting Tetouan's evolution over the years.
Also not to miss is the Ethnography Museum (housed within Bab el-Okla), which contains insightful exhibits explaining local customs and traditions. In the northeast corner of the medina lies the tannery district, where leather goods are produced and sold, though on a smaller scale than the more famous tanneries in Fes. For the best people-watching in Tetouan, head to Place Feddon.
Want to explore Tetouan with the help of a local? This customised walking tour of Tetouan receives rave reviews for the friendliness of its lead guide, Abir, and his extensive knowledge of the city.
Explore the Ville Nouvelle
Tetouan's Ville Nouvelle centres around Avenue Mohammed V, where locals and visitors alike gather in the alfresco cafes that line its route. At the eastern end lies the historic Place El Mechouar, a grand plaza flanked by the stately Royal Palace and the strikingly beautiful Pasha Mosque.
For sightseeing, head west up the avenue to Place Moulay El Mehdi, home to the yellow-hued Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de las Victorias. With its distinctive Spanish colonial architecture, this cathedral harkens back to Tetouan's past while continuing to serve as an active place of Catholic worship today.
After admiring its striking facade, make your way southeast down Avenue Al Massira El Jadida to visit the Tetouan Center of Modern Art, housed in the city's old train station. Its galleries showcase some of Morocco's finest contemporary artworks - a testament to the country's thriving creative culture.
Go shopping in Tetouan’s souks
Tetouan’s Souk District is a vibrant hub of local commerce and culture, offering visitors an immersive experience of Moroccan daily life. Wandering through the narrow alleys lined with colourful stalls, it’s hard not to be swept up in the energised atmosphere. The sounds of merchants hawking their wares and shoppers haggling for the best deals fill the air.
For those looking to pick up authentic Moroccan goods, the Souk District houses several markets specialising in local wares. Guersa El Kebira is home to rows of textile vendors selling traditional Moroccan fabrics and clothing while El Hot Market is known for its ornate ceramics and gold and silver jewellery. Compared to the more tourist-centric markets of bigger cities like Fes and Marrakech, prices here are generally cheaper.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Tetouan
Visit the Tetouan Archaeological Museum
The Tetouan Archaeological Museum is an unmissable destination for history buffs and houses a treasure trove of artefacts and information about the region's rich and diverse past. The museum's crown jewel is undoubtedly the stunning Roman mosaic known as "The Three Graces," which was unearthed at the archeological site of Lixus near the Atlantic coast. Dating back to the 2nd or 3rd century AD, this mosaic depicts the three goddesses of charm, beauty and creativity in multicoloured tilework that is remarkably well-preserved.
In addition, the museum also displays a wealth of artefacts from excavations across northern Morocco, giving visitors a glimpse into the area's prehistory and antiquity. From prehistoric stone tools and weapons to jewellery, coins and bronzes dating to the Carthaginian and Roman eras, the collections illuminate many facets of life in ancient Morocco.
Relax on the sands of Martil
Located just 10 kilometres northeast of Tetouan’s ancient medina is the seaside town of Martil, the perfect place to escape for a swim on hot, summer days. This relaxed fishing port offers a front-row seat to watch local fishermen haul in the daily catch - with plenty of shoreside restaurants ready to prepare the seafood just the way you like it.
During July and August, Moroccan families flock to Martil's sunny shores for their annual beach holidays, filling the hotels, apartments and restaurants. On weekends throughout the warmer months, the beach buzzes with activity as locals come to relax on the sand, creating a really authentic Moroccan seaside experience. The journey from Tetouan to Martil takes just 15 minutes, with both buses and taxis making the trip.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Tetouan
Embark on a day trip to Chefchaouen
Nestled in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco is the "Blue Pearl”, so named for its medina painted in all shades of blue. While only an hour’s drive from Tetouan, Chefchaouen feels like another world, with the winding cobblestone alleyways of this charming mountain town a photographer’s dream. This is undoubtedly one of the best day trips from Tetouan.
Founded in 1471 as a holy city, Chefchaouen has long been a place of spiritual pilgrimage. A highlight of any visit is meandering through the medina, where every corner reveals a new shade of hypnotic blue. The tradition of painting the buildings in different hues of blue began in the 1930s and has given Chefchaouen its iconic identity.
While exploring Chefchaouen, keep an eye out for the 15th-century kasbah (now home to a small ethnographic museum showcasing traditional artefacts) and climb up to the Spanish Mosque. Perched atop a hill east of town, this disused mosque offers superb views across the blue and white rooftops of Chefchaouen against the rugged backdrop of the Rif Mountains.
Want to visit both Tetouan and Chefchaouen in a single day? This guided tour from Tangier explores both destinations and is ideal for those who are short on time.
For more information about visiting the "Blue Pearl", check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Chefchaouen.
Go trekking in Talassemtane National Park
Sprawling to the east of Chefchaouen is Talassemtane National Park, a hiker’s paradise in the Rif Mountains. This rugged region beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore its pine-clad slopes and winding trails that weave between tiny Amazigh villages seemingly frozen in time.
Talassemtane’s landscape is characterised by wind-hewn rock formations and thick cedar forests perfumed with herbs - sightings of Barbary apes are not uncommon here. The Rif Mountains are a rewarding birding destination, with over 100 species of birds identified so far, including golden eagles.
The most popular destinations within the area are the Cascades d’Akchour and the Bridge of God, both of which can be visited on guided day trips to Talassemtane National Park. Also recommended is this full-day hiking excursion, which takes in the park’s highest peak, Mount Lakraa.
Things to see and do in Tetouan
Discover little-visited Al Hoceima National Park
Tetouan serves as the ideal starting point for explorers eager to dive into the wild and rugged landscapes of Al Hoceima National Park. Though less frequented than Talassemtane National Park, this expansive protected area encompasses a wide swathe of the central Rif Mountains as they sweep dramatically down to meet the coastline.
To enter the national park, most visitors pass through the coastal town of Al Hoceima, located 234 kilometres southeast of Tetouan. Within the park's borders, you’ll find endemic Thuya trees, as well as more common species like carob, wild olive and Aleppo pine. Hidden within the mountains are isolated Amazigh villages connected only by rough dirt tracks, best navigable by 4WD vehicles or mountain bikes.
Along the coastline, Al Hoceima National Park shelters secluded beaches bordered by spectacular limestone cliffs that plunge into the sea. For those seeking to trade crowded resorts for deserted nature, this little-visited part of Morocco offers a landscape ripe for exploration and discovery.
How to get to Tetouan
Tetouan is served by Sania Ramel Airport, which receives regular flights from several major European cities, as well as destinations across Morocco. Air Arabia has flights to Tetouan from Amsterdam, Madrid and Barcelona while Ryanair flies from Malaga, Alicante and Brussels. Taxis are readily available at the airport for getting into central Tetouan.
For a more extensive choice of flights, Tangier-Ibn Battouta International Airport is the main aviation gateway to northern Morocco and located around 70 kilometres (43 miles) from Tetouan. While buses and grand taxis (shared taxis) make the journey, the fastest and most convenient way of getting between the two cities is with a Tangier to Tetouan private transfer.
For more information about visiting Tangier (including things to do and places to stay), check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Tangier.
If you’re self-driving, the roads in northern Morocco are generally in a good state of repair and the most direct journey should take just over an hour. If time allows, I’d recommend taking the scenic coastal route that hugs the Strait of Gibraltar. This magnificent drive winds past pristine beaches, seaside cliffs and rolling green hills dotted with whitewashed villages.
To find the best rental car deals in Morocco, visit Discover Cars, which compares vehicles from more than 500 suppliers. It offers 24/7 support for peace of mind, as well as free cancellation.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Tetouan
Best places to stay in Tetouan
Translating as Riad One Thousand and One Nights, this traditional Moroccan guesthouse is nestled in the bustling heart of Tetouan's ancient medina. The property was meticulously renovated in 2018 with the utmost respect to Moroccan craftsmanship and architectural traditions.
Each of the riad's uniquely decorated suites provides an intimate, romantic atmosphere, straight from the pages of an Arabian Nights fable. From the rooftop terrace, you can enjoy panoramic views of Tetouan's medina while sipping on a mint tea.
"I have visited over 60 countries and, honestly, this hotel is the most unique hotel I have stayed at! The hotel is just an amazing - a beautiful work of art! If you want a sense of what Moroccan culture is like, stay here!” - Gallagher (read more reviews here)
Riad El Manantial is an elegant four-star hotel that provides easy access to Tetouan's top attractions. Guests can stroll just 450 metres to the magnificent Royal Palace, with its ornate Andalusian architecture dating back to the 13th century.
The riad itself is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century palace, allowing visitors to experience a piece of Tetouan's heritage first-hand. Many of the airy rooms overlook the mountains and are furnished with luxurious touches while the bathrooms are modern and clean. Guests rave about the exquisite decorations in this Tetouan riad - the photos just don’t do it justice!
"Incredible. It's a royalty stay! The place is surreal…like you're in a painting.” - Ramy (read more reviews here)
Things to see and do in Tetouan
Dar Fama $
Tucked away in the winding alleys of the medina is Dar Fama, a boutique Tetouan hotel offering guests a taste of traditional Moroccan hospitality. Upon entering through an intricately carved wooden door, you arrive in an open-air courtyard with a cosy fireplace - perfect for gathering on cool winter nights.
The rooms exude a homey yet luxurious ambiance with handcrafted furnishings, beautifully tiled floors and sumptuous textiles. The breakfasts here feature local products while the knowledgeable staff create a warm and familial atmosphere.
"This is the best place to stay in Tetouan! What a work of art the interior design is. The staff were absolutely gorgeous and went above and beyond to help us with anything we needed.” - Kate (read more reviews here)
Boasting a quiet location within the medina, Riad Soul of Tetouan is one of the best-rated hotels in Tetouan. Each of the rooms opens onto a private terrace overlooking the courtyard below, providing a quiet spot to relax with a cup of mint tea brewed to perfection. The rooms themselves blend traditional Moroccan style with modern comforts - zellij tiles adorn the walls and handcrafted wooden furnishings outfit each space.
Previous guests praise the attentive staff, who happily share recommendations on the best local restaurants and shopping spots. All up, Riad Soul of Tetouan is an authentic home away from home in this historic corner of northern Morocco.
"The best place I have stayed at in Morocco! Quiet location inside the medina, beautiful house with a nice rooftop, and the hosts were great too!” - Clothilde (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Tetouan
Housed in a former Spanish consulate, this elegant Tetouan riad showcases the building's original white pillars, graceful arches and central courtyard. The current owners fell in love with the property years ago during an unplanned visit and quickly quit their jobs to renovate the riad into a palatial retreat.
The result is a luxury Tetouan hotel that immerses guests in the city’s cultural heritage while providing an elegant place to stay. Modern Moroccan cuisine is served on the shaded terrace, as are continental breakfasts. At the end of the day, you can admire the medina from the rooftop terrace.
"A beautiful, elegant riad in Tetouan's ancient Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blanco Riad has a beautiful central courtyard, friendly and helpful staff.” - Lori (read more reviews here)
Villa Mati $$
Within walking distance of Sania Ramel Airport, Villa Mati Maison D'hôtes is the perfect place to stay if you have an early morning flight. Surrounded by lush gardens, this budget-friendly Tetouan villa features spacious, air-conditioned rooms with private patios overlooking the greenery.
Each comes with a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and a kettle while some also boast separate lounges with fireplaces. Families will appreciate the two-bedroom suites, ensuring everyone can stay together. Outside, you’ll find a sparkling pool where you can refresh in the summer months.
"Very beautifully styled villa! Rooms and bathrooms are big and equipped with everything you need…The pool is small but very refreshing on a hot day.” - Fatima (read more reviews here)
Best time to visit Tetouan
Spring and autumn offer the best conditions for exploring Tetouan's winding alleys and sightseeing in this historic Andalusian city. March to May and September to November see pleasant weather in the low-to-mid 20s Celsius (high 60s Farenheit), 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 (86°F). There’s an influx of European visitors on their summer holidays, together with travelling Moroccans who like to hit the Mediterranean beaches nearby.
Despite the cooler temps (highs around 16°C/60°F), 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.
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