Tangier sits at the meeting point of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, on Morocco's northwestern coast. Its long history as a trading port and, in the twentieth century, as an international zone left it with a dense medina, a kasbah above it, and a newer city spreading along the bay. The result is a compact, walkable place where the old town and the modern streets sit side by side.
For a visitor, the practical question is whether to base yourself in the medina, near the port, or out along the beachfront and the bay. The medina and the port are within walking distance of each other and of the new city, while the beachfront stretches away from the centre. This guide covers the areas the sources identify, what kind of traveller each suits, and the general price levels you can expect, so you can choose a base before comparing live prices.
Best areas to stay in Tangier
1. The medina
The medina is the traditional heart of the city, and it is where most of Tangier's riads are found. Many riads, the traditional Moroccan mansions, now function as hotels, with nightly rates generally around 300 to 500 dirham. The medina also holds an enormous number of small hotels and hostels, and it is within easy reach of the port.
This area suits first-time visitors who want to be in the old town and within walking distance of the port and the new city. It also suits budget travellers, since the cheapest small hotels and hostels cluster in or near the medina, though at that level showers and toilets are often communal and hot water costs extra. Expect narrow lanes and a dense, busy setting rather than quiet streets.
2. The port area
Around the port you find a large number of small hotels, and the location is walking distance to both the medina and the new city. To reach the smaller places, you exit the port and, in about 100 metres, turn right up the alleyway beside a white building with blue hand-lettering, winding uphill to find several small hotels off the main drag on the unmarked Avenue Magellan.
This area suits budget travellers and anyone arriving by sea who wants to drop their bags and walk. It is practical rather than polished, and the approach streets are rutted and unmarked, so it rewards those who do not mind a slightly rough arrival. From here the medina is uphill and the new city is close by.
3. The beachfront along Avenue Mohammed VI
The beachfront runs along Avenue Mohammed VI and holds a mix of accommodation, from simple beachfront places to modern hotels, including some that cater mostly to package tourists. It is a more open, modern setting than the medina, with the sea in front of you.
This area suits travellers who want a beach on the doorstep and a more contemporary base, including families and those on a mid-range or higher budget. It is further from the medina and the port than the old town, so you will rely on walking or transport to reach the historic sights.
4. Malabata
Malabata lies along the bay and is home to modern luxury accommodation, including large hotels with adjoining leisure facilities. It is a resort-style area rather than a historic one.
This area suits travellers who prioritise modern comfort and sea views over proximity to the medina. It sits away from the old town, so plan on transport when you want to visit the kasbah, medina or port.
5. The Kasbah
The kasbah is the high ground above the medina, and it is where you find riads, including elegant ones equipped with a hammam. Staying here puts you at the top of the old town, with the medina below you.
This area suits travellers who want the atmosphere of the old city with a quieter, elevated position, and it works well for those on a mid-range to higher budget. Because it sits above the medina, expect to walk uphill to reach your accommodation, and note that the high location is part of the city's character.
6. Cap Spartel and the Old Mountain
Out towards Cap Spartel, on the Atlantic coast, you find secluded accommodation with long stretches of beach, including luxury residences located away from the crowds downtown. The Old Mountain area, on Rue Sidi Mesmoudi, holds a luxury residence with dining, a bar and a swimming pool.
This area suits travellers who want space, quiet and a coastal setting, and who do not mind being a little far from Tangier's centre. It is best for those with their own transport or a willingness to travel in and out of the city. Camping is also possible in this direction, with sites at Cap Spartel near the Hercules Cave and a few kilometres west of downtown.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: small hotels and hostels in or near the medina, and a large cluster of small hotels around the port. Rooms are basic, showers and toilets are often communal, and hot water may cost extra. Camping is an option outside the centre, with sites west of downtown and near Cap Spartel.
- Mid-range: riads in the medina and the kasbah, beachfront hotels along Avenue Mohammed VI, and established hotels in the medina within easy reach of the port. Expect more comfort and private facilities than at the budget level.
- Splurge: modern luxury hotels on the beachfront and in Malabata, and secluded luxury residences out towards Cap Spartel and the Old Mountain, some with dining, bars and pools.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the medina. It puts you in the old town, within walking distance of the port and the new city, and it is where the widest range of accommodation sits, from budget rooms to riads. You can reach the kasbah on foot above you and the beachfront with a short trip, which makes it the simplest base for getting to know the city.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best if I am arriving by sea?
The port area is the most practical, since there are many small hotels within walking distance of both the medina and the new city. From the port exit, the smaller places are found by turning up the alleyway beside the white building with blue hand-lettering and winding uphill to Avenue Magellan.
Where can I find riads to stay in?
Riads are found mostly in the medina, and there are also riads in the kasbah. Many traditional Moroccan mansions now function as hotels, with nightly rates generally around 300 to 500 dirham.
Which areas suit budget travellers?
The medina and the port area have the largest concentration of small hotels and hostels. At this level, expect basic rooms with communal showers and toilets, and hot water that costs extra.
Which areas are best if I want a beach and modern comfort?
The beachfront along Avenue Mohammed VI and Malabata both offer modern hotels by the sea, and Malabata holds large luxury properties. Further out, Cap Spartel and the Old Mountain offer secluded luxury with long beaches, though they sit away from the centre.
Compare live prices for your dates using the booking tools on this page before you decide where to base yourself.