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 architecture in its ancient Kasbah.
While some visit Tangier only fleetingly en route to cities further south, this fascinating African gateway deserves to be explored. From its famed cafes once frequented by Matisse and Beat poets to the bustling Grand Socco square, there’s something that sets Tangier apart. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys, haggle in the souks and watch the sunset over the Strait of Gibraltar while soaking up its coastal charm.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Tangier, discover everything you need to know to experience this vibrant port city to the fullest, from the best things to do and incredible stays to my top tour recommendations.
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BEST TOURS IN TANGIER
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Tangier tour recommendations:
One day
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Things to do in Tangier
Explore the Kasbah
Spend an afternoon wandering through Tangier'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 Museum of Moroccan Arts and Antiquities. From the rooftops of the Kasbah, you can enjoy views of the bustling new fishing port and marina, part of an ambitious Tangier development project.
Admire the Grande Mosquee
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.
Following Moroccan religious custom, the Grande Mosquee 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 beautifully decorated with tiled mosaics and carved stucco.
Visit the American Legation Museum
In the heart of the medina is this fascinating museum, which details Morocco's intriguing ties with America (Morocco was the first country to recognise the newly independent United States in 1777). Wander between its engaging exhibits that provide a window into Moroccan cultural heritage, with a highlight being 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 who 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.
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 place to watch Moroccan life. 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.
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.
Things to do in Tangier
Visit Cinema Rif in Grand Socco
Grand Socco is a bustling hub where old and new converge. At its centre, a fountain provides respite for locals who gather here, chatting in the balmy evening air while coming and going from the whitewashed mosque that rises to one side. Meander between the market stalls laden with nuts, fruits and flowing kaftans as you soak up the dynamics of Tangier.
On one side of Grand Socco is the Art Deco-style Cinema Rif where films in both French and Arabic have been presented since the 1930s. With its diverse programming and storied history, this cinema embodies Tangier's mixed cultural roots. On the northern side of Grand Socco are the shady lawns of the Mendoubia Garden.
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, including Paul Bowles (who used the bookstore as his mailbox) and William S. Burroughs (who penned “Naked Lunch” in the city).
Though the exterior of the Librairie des Colonnes appears frozen in time, inside you'll discover room after room packed with books old and new. Follow in the footsteps of literary giants such as Truman Capote, Samuel Becket and Tennessee Williams as you discover this storied institution and learn about its role in publishing the work of Moroccan authors.
Enjoy a sunset stroll
Discover the tranquil beauty of Tangier's coastline with a sunset stroll along the Corniche promenade. As the sun sinks toward the horizon, make your way to Cap Spartel, a lush nature reserve where waves from the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea meet beneath the stoic gaze of a lighthouse.
Tangier's bustling port ensures a steady stream of maritime traffic from Europe, infusing the shoreline with lively energy. From braying camels to parading youth, the spirited scenes along the Corniche give the city’s coastline a uniquely Moroccan charm.
Day trip to Asilah
With a fascinating 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, such as 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.
To learn more about visiting Asilah, including things to do and getting there, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Asilah.
Things to do in Tangier
Top tours in Tangier
Tangier travel guide
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, with daytime fares 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.
Train
Trains connect from cities across Morocco (including Marrakech and Fes) to Tangier Ville Station, which lies just a short distance from the heart of the city. For just 40 dirhams, hop in a petite taxi outside the railway station and zip directly to your Tangier hotel. Local buses are also available for those travelling on a budget.
Bus
Travelling to Tangier by bus is a comfortable and affordable option. Eurolines provides regular service from Malaga, Spain, with fares starting from around USD 80 (including the ferry crossing). Upon arrival at Tangier's main bus terminal on Avenue Idriss, smaller taxis stand ready to whisk you to your final destination in the city.
For travellers coming from other Moroccan cities like Chefchaouen and Rabat, buses terminate at the CTM station by the port or the main terminal in Place Jamia Al Arabia.
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. Don't forget to obtain green card insurance in Morocco before disembarking - it's available right 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 travel guide
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. For longer stays, consider a self-catering apartment with a kitchen that allows you to prepare some of your own meals. Tangier’s 5-star hotels and villas offer a luxurious escape, although you can easily find more wallet-friendly options that exude plenty of charm.
Luxury places to stay in Tangier
Mid-range places to stay in Tangier
Affordable places to stay in Tangier
For more accommodation inspiration, check out my article detailing 7 of the Best Hotels in Tangier.
Tangier travel guide
Best time to visit Tangier
Spring and autumn offer the best conditions for exploring Tangier's winding alleys and breezy waterfront. 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.
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About the author
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 majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.