Tangier

Introduction

You will find Tangier situated in northwestern Morocco, where it sits at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. As the capital of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region and the Tangier-Assilah Prefecture, this coastal city offers a unique location defined by its proximity to two different seas.

Before you go

Prepare for a coastal atmosphere where the weather is milder than in the south and often cooler than on the Spanish side of the strait. You will find yourself in a city shaped by a rich, international history as a former international zone and a hub for spies, gamblers, and cultural icons. The local culture reflects a blend of North African, Spanish, and French influences. To blend in with the locals and receive better reception from merchants, consider dressing like a local.

When navigating the medina, be mindful of persistent touts and con-men who may approach you to offer hashish or other distractions; simply ignoring them or offering a polite "no thank you" is effective. If you are traveling as part of a tour group, avoid purchasing from souvenir touts who follow you through the streets, as this can mark you as an easy target for others. When arriving by ferry, ignore persistent individuals at the harbor offering to help with paperwork or food recommendations. If you find yourself lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the medina, you can navigate toward the port or upward toward the souks and modern areas to find your way out.

Getting there

You can reach the city by air via flights from major hubs in Western Europe and Morocco. Upon arrival at the airport, you can take a light blue AeroBus shuttle to the train station or opt for a grand taxi to various destinations including the city center, the port of Tangier Med, or nearby towns like Asilah and Tetouan. Alternatively, if traveling from southern cities like Rabat or Casablanca, you can arrive by high-speed rail or intercity bus. For those arriving from Spain, several ferry lines operate across the Strait of Gibraltar. The Tarifa to Tangier Ville route provides access near the medina, while the Algeciras to Tangier Med route serves a port further east.

Local transport options provide various ways to navigate between hubs:

• Trains offer frequent intercity service throughout Morocco, including high-speed connections from Casablanca.
• Two main bus stations serve the city; one is dedicated to CTM buses while the other serves a variety of other companies.
• From the port area, you can choose between blue petit taxis for local travel or grand taxis for longer trips, though it is wise to agree on a total price before departing.
• If arriving from Ceuta, you can take a bus to the border and cross on foot before catching a grand taxi toward the city.

Getting around

You can navigate the compact streets of Tangier primarily on foot, which is often the best way to see the city and remains the only way to traverse the complex alleyways of the Medina. While walking through the old town, be mindful of locals on scooters navigating the narrow paths. If you prefer to drive, be prepared for busy traffic where pedestrians share the lanes with vehicles; a heavy police presence helps direct the flow in areas without traffic lights. Official car guards are also available to assist you with parking and watching over your vehicle.

Alternatively, you can utilize the city's various transportation options:

• Petit taxis are turquoise cars used for local trips; if they lack a meter, ensure you agree on a price before departing.
• Grand taxis are cream-colored mini-vans that function as collective transport; these are required for travel outside of city borders.
• Public green buses serve the city, though some lines run infrequently.

Where to stay

You can find a wide range of accommodations throughout the city, from traditional Moroccan mansions known as riads to modern hotels. Many riads are located within the medina and offer an authentic atmosphere. If you prefer a more contemporary experience, several options provide modern amenities like air conditioning and satellite television.

For those seeking a local experience in the medina or near the port, numerous small hotels and hostels are available. Some of these establishments feature shared facilities, while others offer private rooms with views of the bay or the surrounding landscape. If you prefer to stay near the coast, several beachfront properties provide easy access to the water. For a more secluded retreat, you can find accommodations further out on the Atlantic coast or in the Kasbah area, where elegant riads featuring traditional Moroccan decor and hammams are located.

Food & drink

Savor the local flavors of the Maghreb by sampling various types of tagines, couscous, and mint tea. For a traditional breakfast, visit a local cafe for a cafe au lait accompanied by bread with cheese and honey from a nearby vendor. If you prefer variety throughout the day, explore the vibrant street food scene where you can find fresh orange juice, creative yogurt mixtures featuring avocado and almonds, or savory sandwiches filled with egg, peppers, and sauce. In the evening, wander through the medina to discover numerous Moroccan restaurants, or head to the plaza near the CTM bus station where a variety of cafes and restaurants offer high-quality dishes in a competitive atmosphere.

For seafood lovers, find authentic offerings at the port behind the warehouses, where you can enjoy trays of shrimp, calamari, fish, and salad. If you are looking for international flavors, the city offers options ranging from Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine to Italian and French dishes. You can also find a variety of global fast food brands and local bakeries specializing in cakes. While tap water is available, bottled water is often preferred by visitors. Relax with a drink at various cafes, some of which offer scenic views of the Straits of Gibraltar or specialized treats like wpanache, a blend of fruit juices, milk, apple, and almond.

What to see and do

Experience the entire city as a single destination by strolling along the beach on Avenue Mohamed VI or exploring the port area, where you can watch fishing boats bring in fresh fish and observe fast ferries traveling to Tarifa. For scenic views of the sea and the surrounding coastline, visit the terrace at the northern side of the Kasbah, the Terrasse des Paresseux, or the nearby Café Hafa.

Explore the medina, the city's primary attraction, where you can navigate narrow streets filled with shops selling everything from bracelets to mats. Within this historic area, visit the Grand Mosquee, the Petit souk, and the Kasbah, which houses a museum of artifacts and features a terrace overlooking the port. Other notable sites in the medina include the tomb of Ibn Battouta, the American Legation Museum, and the Fondation Lorin. Outside the medina, you can visit the Grand Socco, a lively park-like square near the Sidi Bou Abib Mosque and the Moorish-style Church of Saint Andrew. Other nearby landmarks include the Mendoubia Gardens, the Palais Marshan, and the Plaza de Toros, the last remaining bullring in Morocco.

• Hercules Caves: A site of natural beauty and archaeological significance located west of the city.
• Cap Malabata: A location to the east where you can watch the sunrise over the North African countryside.
• Museum of Contemporary Art: A space showcasing Moroccan modern art.

When to go

You can experience a mild summer in Tangier, where the city's proximity to the Atlantic keeps the temperatures moderated compared to the southern regions of Morocco. If you prefer a cooler climate, the winter months bring a colder atmosphere and significant rainfall as part of the region's wet climate.

Three days in Tangier

Day one, you can explore the historic atmosphere of the Medina. You will experience the unique character of Tangier as it sits near the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

Day two, your journey continues through the local surroundings. You can travel toward nearby areas such as Tetouan or Al Hoceima to see more of the North African landscape.

Day three, you can take in the sights of Tangier Ville. You might also consider traveling toward the Strait or exploring the coastal charm of Asilah.