Tangier

About Tangier

For centuries a crossroads of trade and cultures, Tangier had a special international status in the 20th century and attracted writers, artists and musicians. Today a revitalised seafront and marina sit alongside the old medina.

Al Boraq high-speed trains link Tangier to Rabat and Casablanca, making it an efficient start to a Morocco itinerary.

Top things to do

• The Kasbah. The hilltop fortress quarter with the Kasbah Museum and sea views.
• Grand Socco and Petit Socco. Historic squares at the heart of the city’s social life.
• Tangier American Legation. A historic building and museum reflecting long-standing ties with the United States.
• Cap Spartel. The headland where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, with a lighthouse.
• Caves of Hercules. Sea caves near Cap Spartel with an opening shaped like a map of Africa.
• Café Hafa. A cliffside café famed for mint tea and its literary visitors.

Outdoor activities

• Coastal walks around Cap Spartel and the Perdicaris forest
• Birdwatching during spring and autumn migration over the Strait of Gibraltar
• Beaches along the Atlantic coast towards Asilah

Getting there & best time

Getting there

• Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport and ferry ports connect with Europe.
• From Rabat: approx. 3 h by road, or around 1 h 20 by Al Boraq train.
• From Casablanca: around 2 h 10 by Al Boraq train.
• From Chefchaouen: approx. 2–2.5 h by road.
• From Fes: approx. 4–5 h by road or train.

Best time to visit

Spring to autumn. Summer is pleasant on the coast but busy; winter is mild but often windy and wet.