Guide to Tangier Morocco
Guide to Tangier Morocco ,Visiting Tangier is highly recommended for travelers who need to escape to a different and multicultural city. It is also ideal for those who plan to start a longer trip in Morocco and need a starting point.
In this guide “What to see in Tangier” you will find all the information you need to visit Marrakech, including the best places to visit, tips, transportation, accommodation and much more.
Known among locals as the “Bridge of the North”, this port faces the Strait of Gibraltar connecting Morocco with the rest of the world. It is known for having been inhabited since its origin by the Berbers and was later invaded by different civilizations including Phoenicians and Romans, but later it was a Portuguese, British, French and Spanish colony. Today, after regaining control, you can still feel the omnipresent history that has left a deep imprint on the streets of Tangier.
Sometimes it is hard to connect with cities that are not internationally famous, but in Tangier you will not have that problem. First of all, you will discover that it is more popular than you would have imagined; and secondly, you will always have some place or corner like a café overlooking the Mediterranean that will make you glad you made the decision to visit.
Perhaps the city of Tangier is still the kind of city that when you hear it mentioned, you can’t imagine what you can visit there and create low expectations. However, Tangier never ceases to amaze the thousands of visitors who cross borders to better understand this destination. Morocco tours 5 days
If you are thinking of visiting Tangier, you have to take a look at our page with hotels in Tangier so you can easily organize your trip to Morocco. It is always a pleasure to see pictures of Tangier, as the city hides some particularly picturesque places.
Other reasons why you should visit Tangier and spend an enviable vacation:
The history of Tangier: If you want to learn by traveling discovering curious historical facts and get lost among museums, buildings and streets that convey everything that has happened in this city, you must visit Tangier. You will come across many sites with a very interesting historical legacy of different civilizations and ethnic groups. A tour in Tangier will serve as a trip to satisfy your hunger for general cultural knowledge.
Art Galleries: When you are planning your visit to Tangier, don’t forget to include in your itinerary a visit to one of the many art galleries Tangier has to offer. More and more artists are joining this movement that promotes both local and international art.
Excursions from Tangier: If in addition to museums, souks, kasbahs and restaurants you want to know magical places, then Tangier is a city that by its location will facilitate you to explore different places. It can serve as a base to explore capes, beaches, grottoes, ports, parks and other nearby cities just by making short trips from Tangier.
In this travel guide to Tangier we will dedicate a few paragraphs to let you know why it is worth visiting and learn more about Tangier, a place of surprises that will reward you the more you walk through its streets.
Tangier today
Tangier is a developing city where the Western European influence, the influence of the colonial era and the Moroccan culture are currently merging. The most interesting thing is that this Moroccan culture is promoted and prevails in the heart of the different generations that inhabit Tangier.
In this port city you will find souks, kasbah, medina, mosques, Jewish quarter, traditional Moroccan tea, modern cafes, traditional and contemporary food, art galleries, museums, beaches, parks and much more.
Tangier is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Morocco and the interest in art is tangible. There are many art galleries at your disposal or the Cinema Rif, where you will find young people and artists gathered to enjoy the atmosphere of the terrace and to watch classic films of international cinema and of course also films in Moroccan Arabic and French. Another example of the push for culture and art in this city is the Tangier Latin Festival that takes place during the summer.
You will notice the growth of Western European style restaurants and cafes, the increase of chain restaurants, for example, here you will find Pizza Hut or McDonalds and in most Moroccan cities you will not see these franchises.
As tourism in Morocco grows over time, Tangier has benefited quite a bit from this. They have invested in cleaning and restoring Tangier’s beaches so it is now much nicer to walk along the promenade, the city looks cleaner and also the police have increased the security force on the streets. These changes have been very positive for the environment and growth of this city.
Tangier despite being less visited compared to other Moroccan cities, is a city that also offers interesting places to visit. Places to visit in Tangier (inside and outside the city).The main attractions of the city you can explore quickly in 1-2 days, but if you have more time you can make excursions near Tangier to make the most of your trip. Casablanca desert tours
Dar El Makhzen or Kasbah Art Museum
Formerly the Royal Palace, it is located inside the old medina.
It is an essential stop for anyone traveling to Tangier.
It has an impressive archaeological collection of artifacts from the area.
We just recommend you to dedicate enough time when you visit it to calmly observe all the wonderful pieces of art and enjoy the decorations of the old palace.
It is a beautiful place!
The entrance fee is only 20 dirhams and its good location makes it very accessible to everyone.
9 April Square
9 April Square in Tangier Morocco
It is a must to enjoy the local atmosphere and to watch the typical people of Tangier. It is located next to the old medina.
This open square is full of life all day long and is named in honor of Morocco’s Independence Day.
From the center of the square you will notice the Sidi Bou Abib mosque, the Rif cinema and a few meters away you will find an entrance to the old medina and the large souk. In the traditional market you will find all kinds of products: fresh fruits and vegetables, dates, bread, nuts, oil and argan soap, etc..
It is common to see many local families around the square for a stroll, eating something from the street stalls (chickpeas, snails, popcorn, ice cream, etc), others just passing by the mosque or staying near the fountain to watch the people.
From the other side of the square, young locals head to the Cinema Rif as a meeting point, enjoying the popular atmosphere on the terrace, chatting anecdotes of their day, exchanging ideas with local artists or relaxing before going in to watch a movie.
Cinema Rif
Cinema Rif in Tangier Morocco
Located on the 9 April square, the Cinema Rif is very easy to distinguish by a large red sign and its white facade with art deco details. It is by far one of the most interesting places to have a better context of the diversity and cultural activity of Tangier and to better understand a large part of the current youth of the city.
Cinemathéque de Tanger is an independent cinema founded in 2006 by visual artist Yto Barrada with the aim of promoting the heritage of the national and international film industry.
It is an amazing intercultural space that welcomes artists, producers, cinephiles, travelers and anyone in love with art.
In addition to conferences, workshops, film screenings indoors and outdoors. It is an ideal place to have a tea or a drink on the terrace and if not you can also enjoy the beautiful interior of the cinema with its beautiful artistic and vintage touch.
Medina of Tangier
Medina of Tangier in Morocco
The old medina of Tangier is a bustling, chaotic and colorful place. You definitely have to walk through it and explore, it’s an enjoyable experience, even if it’s sometimes easy to get disoriented among the alleys.
Unless you can arrange an invitation to a local’s home, your best bet is to dive into the maze-like medinas and head to the souks to sample different types of local food.
Berbers from villages near Tangier come from their farms to sell their fresh produce, mainly fruits, vegetables and goat cheese wrapped in palm leaves, in the streets of the souks.
You will find a range of delicious choices. How about an artisan bread made from chickpeas? This typical bread in Tangier is called kalinte and is eaten quite a lot by locals in the streets of the medina, it is made from chickpea flour, olive oil, salt, egg and a touch of cumin. Each slice is a delight for visitors to the souk.
You can also get ready-made food sold by weight and prepared in the souk. You can try tajines, spicy sardines, pastilla (pigeon pie), bessara (bean soup), breaded liver and much more. Tours from tangier Morocco
And if you have other cravings or are looking for products to take home, you will find spices, herbs, nuts or natural skin care products of argan, olive and almond oil in the hundreds of stores scattered throughout the Medina.
American Legation in Tangier
American Legation of Tangier
It is located in the medina on Rue d’Amerique. Today this building is a museum and cultural center that represents the strong connection that once united Morocco and the United States of America, and that many people are unaware of.
Morocco was the first country to recognize the U.S. as an independent state, so since that time good diplomatic relations between the two countries led to the establishment of the first American-owned building outside the United States. It was a legation and consulate for 140 years and this beautiful building can be visited to go to exhibitions, visit the bookstore or simply admire its beautiful Moorish style. Rutas Por Marruecos
The Grotto of Hercules and Cape Espartel
The Grotto of Hercules in Tangier Morocco
Perhaps the most popular tourist sites in Tangier, they are only 15 km west of the city. They are really very attractive for travelers because they offer beautiful landscapes of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. We highly recommend the panoramic views from the lighthouse of Cape Espartel.
Regarding the famous grottoes, they got their name from the legend of Greek mythology which apparently indicates that Hercules slept there. Regardless of whether you will believe it, this is a beautiful place and worth a visit to see the rock formations created naturally by the waves and also because there are indications that they were occupied in the Neolithic period.
It is very easy to reach both sites because of their relevance to Tangier tourism. You can arrive by Taxi and the fare should not be between 9-12 euros (100-150 dirhams).
Cape and Malabata beach
Beautiful cape with a picturesque lighthouse.
A medieval style castle of the twentieth century.
It has extraordinary views of the sea ideal for taking pictures.
It is located 6 km east from the old medina.
Cafe Hafa
Cafe Hafa in Tangier Morocco
It is located on a hill below the Kasbah.
You can get there by cab, and the cafe is so popular that if you need directions any local will surely help you.
Enjoy a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea while sipping a delicious mint tea.
This historic café has been open since 1921.
We highly recommend it as a great place to start your day or to relax in the evening.
Grand Cafe de Paris
Grand Cafe de Paris in Tangier
Open since 1927, it is located on Rue de la Liberté in the Place de France.
This historic and wonderful cafe is frequented by locals and has a very special retro vibe.
It has been a source of inspiration for literary geniuses such as Jack Kerouac.
Perdicaris Park
Perdicaris Park Tanger
Take a walk to get some fresh air in the Perdicaris or Rmilat park.
It is located 6 km from the old medina and is not so touristy, so you can enjoy nature, sea views and the silence of the place in just a few minutes from the center of Tangier.
Getting there is very easy, you can take a cab or take the bus line 5 from the Sidi Bouabid stop to Palais Royal 2.
Art Galleries
Art Galleries in Tangier
If you are willing to immerse yourself in the world of art that Tangier has to offer, below you will find a list of the best galleries in the city:
Medina Art Gallery. Location: Rue Antaki
Samet Gallery. Location: 35 Rue des Almohads
Lusko Art Gallery. Location: 4 Rue Téhran.
Mohammed Drissi Gallery. Location: 52, Rue d’ Angleterre.
Artingis Gallery. Location: 11 Rue Khalid Oualid.
Other recommended places to visit in Tangier:
Tangier’s Jewish Quarter and the Lorin Foundation – Museum dedicated to the historical Jewish heritage.
Tomb of Ibn Battuta. – Here lie the remains of the famous Berber traveler who explored the world.
Grand Théâtre Cervantes – Built in 1913, it is located on Rue Anoual.
Mendoubia Gardens – If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and breathe a peaceful atmosphere visit the gardens.
Port of Tangier. – We suggest a stroll along the renovated promenade. It is very nice to see the locals strolling with their families.
Tangier Bullring. – The square was built by Spaniards in 1950, is now abandoned and is located on Route de Tetouan street.
To visit outside the city
Tangier is very well located for day trips to fascinating places. We suggest the following trips near Tangier. Best excursions from Tangier.
Asilah
Asilah Morocco
Distance Tangier-Asilah: 46 km
It is a nice quiet village but surrounded by wild beaches where the waves beat against the walls and give a special charm to the place.
On the other hand, if you are looking for cultural activities during your visit to Morocco, Asilah is an excellent choice. Asilah is an excellent choice. We suggest you check out the page of cultural events in Asilah. You will find information about murals, workshops or events such as the Asilah International Cultural Festival.
Tetouan
Tetouan Morocco
Distance Tangier-Tetouan: 63 km
A short trip from Tangier to Tetouan will be a very good idea to complete your trip and visit Tétouan.
It will allow you to know the extraordinary Medina which was declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Tetouan was the former capital of the Spanish “protectorate” of Morocco.
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen Morocco
Distance Tangier-Chefchaouen: 113 km
One of the advantages of being in Tangier is the possibility to be closer to one of the most beautiful places in Morocco.
This beautiful city is located at the foot of the Rif Mountains and offers privileged views of the mountain valleys and a network of beautiful blue alleys in the old medina.
Despite the considerable increase in the flow of tourists, it is an essential stop that you will not regret. You are just in time to discover the magic of Chefchaouen.
Other recommended sites to visit
Mdiq – Distance 76 km.
Larache – Distance 91 km.
Transports in Tangier
How to get to Tangier?
To travel to Tangier you can do it by plane, ferry, train, bus or with your own car, this makes it one of the most convenient cities to visit. In addition, many tourists find it convenient as a train connection from Tangier to destinations such as Marrakech which are located in the south of Morocco.
How to get to Tangier by plane from Spain?
The most convenient way to get to Tangier is by plane, it has different international connections. Tangier Ibn Battuta International Airport is located 15 kilometers from the 9 de Abril Square and the old medina of Tangier.
Below you will find a list of airlines that fly regularly to Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport:
Iberia
Royal Air Marroc
Vueling
Germania
Iberia
Eurowings
Air TAP Portugal
British Airways
Air Arabia Maroc
Ryanair
TUI Airlines
How to get to Tangier by ferry from Spain?
Arriving by ferry to Tangier is possible and is also one of the favorite ways among tourists and locals.
The most common ports of departure are the following:
Algeciras
Malaga
Motril
Tarifa
Barcelona
Genoa
Sete
Savona
Costs may vary depending on your travel needs.
Check timetables and compare prices on the websites Balearia, Trasmediterranea, Direct Ferries, FRS, AFERRY, LOGITRAVEL
Travel time can range from 30 to 80 minutes and this depends on the route you choose. The fastest trip can be found with the company FRS ferries from the port of Tarifa.
How to get from the airport in Tangier to the city center?
Car: Distance from the airport to the city center 15 km.
Cab: The average price to move from the airport to the center of Tangier is 9.50 -14 euros – 100-150 dirhams.
How to get to Tangier by train?
Traveling by train is the most recommended. It is very comfortable and practical.
Route Casablanca-Marrakech ” 2h 39 m. Cost 9-18 Euros (96 -193 dirhams).
If you have decided to visit Tangier, you will have to check first if the Moroccan train network reaches the city where you are.
Below you will find the most common train routes to Tangier:
Route Casablanca Casa Voyageurs-Tangier Ville ” Distance 338km, Duration 2h 10 m. Cost 18-36 Euros (187 – 384 dirhams)
Fez-Tangier Ville ” Distance 398km, Duration 3h 30m. Cost 10.5 -28 Euros (110 -295 dirhams)
Consult the timetable and prices on the official website of trains in Morocco.
How to get to Tangier by bus?
If you are coming from a city where there is no train network in Morocco, then the bus to Tangier is the means of transport you should consider.
If you arrive at Tangier Airport and need to transfer by bus to another city, consider that the airport is 16km from the CTM bus station.
The main bus company is CTM, but you can also check prices and schedules at Supratours.
How to move within the city of Tangier?
If you do not have a car to move around, do not worry. In Tangier it is very easy to move within the city on foot and by cab, although we warn you that sometimes you will find areas with traffic and you will have to negotiate prices with drivers.
How to get around by cab in Tangier?
Cabs are everywhere and are very convenient. If you want to make the most of your time this will be your best option.
The disadvantages of using this means are:
Prices at night increase considerably.
It is always better to negotiate the price with the driver before getting in.
Some do not use a taximeter.
How to get around Tangier by bus?
You can get around Tangier using the city bus network. The cost is 4 dirhams and you can cover different parts of the city. Check the stops and schedules on the ALSA TANGIER website. The Moroccans will be happy to help you if you do not know the route or stop.
Accommodation in Tangier
Where to stay in Tangier?
In Tangier there is a wide variety of accommodation options as in other popular cities in Morocco. So far, the growth of the hotel industry in Tangier has been more oriented towards opening beach and luxury hotels. However, we did a deep research on the best hotel in Tangier to create a list with different options that we believe can help you have a pleasant trip according to your needs:
What are the best cheap hotels in Tangier?
Tangiers Hostel
Bunk bed in dormitory
21 euros per night for 2 persons. Breakfast included (taxes included)
Tangiers Hostel
Safari Guesthouse
Double room, 18-25 euros per night (taxes included)
Safari Guesthouse
Tanja Lucia Hostel
Bed in mixed dormitory, 20 euros per night for 2 adults (tax included)
Tanja Lucia Hostel
What are the best mid-range hotels in Tangier?
Dar Sami: Riad avec vue
Double room with private bathroom
59 euros per night. Breakfast included (taxes included)
Dar Sami: Riad avec vue
Fredj Hotel Tángier
Superior double room, 2 single beds
68 euros per night (tax included)
Fredj Hotel Tangier
What are the best luxury hotels in Tangier?
Palace Zahia
Deluxe double room, 2 persons
105-116 euros per night, breakfast included (taxes included)
Palace Zahia
Hilton Garden Inn City Center
King room, 2 persons
119-144 euros per night, breakfast included (incl. tax)
Hilton Garden Inn City Center
Before traveling to Tangier
Below you will find a list of the best tips every traveler should consider before visiting Tangier.
What is the best time to travel to Tangier?
Tangier can be visited all year round, but the most pleasant weather is during spring and summer. In summer you can take advantage of the beaches and the sites near the port or the capes with their picturesque lighthouses.
How to get a good price when buying things in Tangier?
In Morocco and in Tangier, it is always good to bargain to get a better price.
What kind of clothes to take to Tangier?
Despite being a more cosmopolitan city, we suggest you not to be conspicuous with your clothes. If you are a woman, you can wear light but modest clothing, i.e., covering the shoulders, skirts below the knee, tunics, etc… In the mosques if you are allowed access, it will not be necessary to cover your head, but avoid wearing tank tops, short skirts or shorts. If you are a man, we also recommend that you avoid wearing clothes that do not cover your shoulders, in hot weather you can wear shorts.
How much to tip in Tangier?
In most cases you will see on the bill itself whether or not a tip is already included. In most hotels and restaurants it is indicated, however, if you wish to tip hotel employees, waiters, waitresses, waiters, etc., it is not a bad idea to leave a tip. It is considered a good tip around 10-15%.
Can I drink alcohol in Tangier?
In Tangier you can find options where alcoholic beverages are allowed. Below is a list of some of the most popular bars and pubs in Tangier: Cinema Riff, London’s Pub, 555 Club. In Tangier there are some liquor stores where you can buy wine or beer, for example Casa Pepe – 39 Rue Ibn Rochd.
Is Tangier a safe city?
To avoid any mishap, always take care of your personal belongings as you would do when visiting any other place. We also recommend you to be more cautious at night and to keep an eye on your surroundings, especially in areas on the edge of the city. Beware of certain fake guides offering you help or a guide service in the streets of the old town. Usually appearing out of nowhere, these people will follow you, start talking to you and insist on offering to be your guide to show you around. Firmly and clearly tell them that you don’t want any guides, please don’t insist and keep walking away from them. They will insist, but they will get tired if you keep this firm attitude and ignore them. They are in the business of scamming tourists and mainly want to “help” by guiding them and then ask for a ridiculous tip for their service.
Conclusion
Tangier will always offer you different options to entertain yourself and enjoy your time in Morocco to the fullest.
If you love art, Tangier is the city to visit. Your artistic mind and heart will explode with excitement when you get to know all the variety of art galleries that might interest you. One of the most famous is the Medina Art Gallery.
You will have the opportunity to visit the wonderful Cinema Rif, go to watch movies or have tea on the terrace where you will enjoy the local energy and life in front of the 9 de abril square. Tour del Marocco
In this port you will find many restaurants with typical or contemporary food.
You can relax in modern cafes or old coffee shops that are jewels of the city, where the locals give all the life to the place.
This city is an excellent base to start your trip and will welcome you to Morocco with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
You will have the opportunity to visit capes, beaches, the harbor and parks to get some fresh air and enjoy the tranquility of nature. viaje a marruecos
In addition to visiting historical sites that reflect Tangier’s past, visits to the souk will be the best way to learn about the multicultural heritage and life full of traditions and customs that the city’s inhabitants show to the rest of the world.
In Tangier’s noisy and bustling souk you will discover some of the best street food in Morocco!
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