TANGIER: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Located on the northwestern tip of Africa, Tangier is a vibrant city that serves as a cultural bridge between Europe and Africa. With its rich history, stunning coastal views, and bustling medina, Tangier offers an unforgettable experience. To help you plan your trip, we've prepared the ultimate guide to exploring this dynamic city. Let's discover why Tangier is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco!
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HIGHLIGHTS
Before we dive into the details of our suggested itineraries, here's a quick preview and a summary to make planning easier for you:
Day 1: History and Culture
Kasbah Museum, American Legation, Grand Socco, Petit Socco, Hafa Café
Day 2: Coastal and Scenic Exploration
Cape Spartel, Hercules Caves, Phoenician Tombs, Medina, Tangier Beach
Day Trip to Chefchaouen, Day Trip to Asilah
Fes, Chefchaouen, Tetouan
GETTING AROUND TANGIER
Tangier is accessible via several transportation options. You can fly into Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport, take a ferry from Spain, or arrive by train or bus from other Moroccan cities.
Once in Tangier, getting around is easy with taxis, buses, and car rentals available. The medina is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets, while taxis are convenient for longer distances or reaching destinations outside the city center.
If you're flying into Tangier, check out Skyscanner for the best flight deals. Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport (TNG) is the main gateway to the city and offers various transportation options to the city center, including taxis and airport shuttles.
1-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: History and Culture
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Kasbah Museum, housed in the former sultan’s palace. Explore its impressive collection of artifacts and learn about Tangier's rich history. Next, head to the American Legation, a historic building that now serves as a museum showcasing the unique relationship between the United States and Morocco.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at Restaurant Rif Kebdani, located in the heart of the medina. This well-rated restaurant is known for its delicious Moroccan dishes, such as tagine, couscous, and fresh seafood. The warm atmosphere and authentic flavors make it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Afternoon: Wander through the Grand Socco, a lively square that marks the entrance to the medina. Explore the bustling markets and narrow streets of the Petit Socco, where you can shop for local crafts, spices, and textiles.
Evening: Relax at Hafa Café and experience its iconic ambiance. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea. Savor a cup of Moroccan mint tea as you watch the sunset over Tangier.
2-DAY ITINERARY
If you have two days in Tangier, think about expanding your itinerary to include the coastal and scenic attractions:
Day 2: Coastal and Scenic Exploration
Morning: Begin your day with a trip to Cape Spartel, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and visit the nearby Hercules Caves, a natural wonder steeped in legend and history.
Lunch: Head back to Tangier for lunch at Restaurant L'Océan, a highly-rated seaside restaurant known for its delicious seafood and stunning ocean views. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, seafood paella, and Moroccan-style calamari, while overlooking the beautiful beach scenery.
Afternoon: Visit the Phoenician tombs, carved into the cliffside. These ancient tombs offer a glimpse into Tangier’s ancient history and provide a stunning view of the city and the sea. Then, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring more of Tangier's medina. Explore the local souks, discover hidden gems in the alleyways, and perhaps visit a traditional hammam for a relaxing bath and massage.
Evening: End your day with a walk along Tangier Beach. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, watch the locals play soccer, and relax by the sea as the day comes to a close.
WHERE TO STAY
Tangier offers a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to every budget and preference. From luxurious accommodations to mid-range stays, there are many choices in this dynamic city. Here are some recommended options:
Mid-Range:
Rembrandt Hotel: Centrally located, Rembrandt Hotel offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant with views of the Bay of Tangier.
Hotel Ben Batouta: Enjoy a comfortable stay at Hotel Ben Batouta, offering modern amenities, cozy rooms, and a convenient location near key attractions in Tangier.
Diagonal Hotel: Experience contemporary comfort at Diagonal Hotel, featuring stylish accommodations, excellent dining options, and a prime location for exploring the city.
Luxury:
Riad Dar Saba - Saba's House: Experience the enchanting ambiance of Riad Dar Saba. This beautifully restored riad offers an intimate experience with traditional Moroccan decor, personalized service, and exquisite culinary delights in a serene setting.
Royal Tulip City Centre: Discover refined luxury at Royal Tulip City Centre. Relax in elegant rooms, enjoy exquisite dining, and soak in panoramic views.
Hilton Tanger City Centre: Experience luxury at its finest at Hilton Tanger City Centre. Enjoy stunning views, gourmet dining, and world-class amenities for an exceptional stay in the heart of Tangier.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE
If you find yourself with extra time in Tangier, consider adding these activities to your trip:
Day Trip to Chefchaouen: Visit the enchanting blue-washed city of Chefchaouen on a day trip. Walk through its narrow, winding streets, explore vibrant markets, and take in the stunning views of the Rif Mountains. Book here →
Day Trip to Asilah: Visit the nearby coastal town of Asilah, known for its artistic vibe, beautiful murals, and relaxed atmosphere. Explore its medina, enjoy the beach, and savor fresh seafood. Book here →
Alternatively, check below for other curated tour options that offer a memorable journey through the heart and outskirts of this dynamic city.
BEYOND TANGIER
While Tangier has lots to offer, there are also several amazing places nearby worth exploring:
Fes: Discover the cultural heart of Morocco with a visit to Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its ancient medina, marvel at the intricate architecture of the Bou Inania Madrasa, and wander through the bustling streets lined with traditional crafts and goods.
Chefchaouen: Visit the picturesque blue-painted town of Chefchaouen, known for its stunning blue-washed buildings and charming streets. Wander through its medina, hike in the surrounding Rif Mountains, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Stay for a few days to fully absorb the local culture and way of life. Check out our ultimate Chefchaouen itinerary →
Tetouan: Head to Tetouan, a city with a unique blend of Moroccan and Andalusian influences, located close to Tangier. Explore its well-preserved medina, admire the intricate architecture of the Tetouan Grand Mosque, and soak in the city's rich history and culture.