CAPTIVATING TANGIER
Visiting Tangier for the first time can leave a mixed impression, especially if you have cities like Marrakesh or Fez in mind. Yet this port city, just a short distance from Spain, has a unique charm that captures visitors’ hearts and keeps them coming back.
Photo by Linda Gerbec
If you arrive by ferry, your first view of Tangier will be from the sea, where the bustling port, the comings and goings of boats, and the activity of trade immediately signal a lively city. From there, it’s a short walk to the historic quarter, where local life revolves around commerce, crafts, and tourism.
For a short trip of three or four days, careful planning is essential. Spend at least two days exploring Tangier’s highlights: its museums, the medina, the bustling souks, and Café Hafa. If time allows, dedicate another day or two to nearby excursions. Popular day trips include the Hercules Caves and the towns of Asilah and Tetouan. While you can visit independently, guided tours offer deeper insight into the history and significance of these sites.
Tangier is a large city, home to around one million residents, but most of the key attractions are concentrated in a few walkable neighbourhoods. Highlights include the kasbah, the medina, 9 April 1947 Square, the Great Mosque, and the iconic Café Hafa. As in any city, it’s wise to stay cautious when walking at night and avoid empty streets.
Photo by Karim MANJRA
One of the city’s most beautiful areas is the Kasbah, a fortified complex atop a hill overlooking the medina. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with workshops, small squares, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the former Dar el-Makhzen palace, which now houses a museum showcasing Moroccan crafts, Roman archaeological remains from Volubilis, and stunning examples of 17th-century architecture. The kasbah also offers one of the best viewpoints in the city.
The medina is another essential stop. This lively, working-class neighbourhood spreads around 9 April 1947 Square and includes the kasbah. Its winding streets are packed with shops, street vendors, and vibrant marketplaces. Exploring the medina allows visitors to experience daily Moroccan life and capture some of the most photogenic corners of Tangier.
Other must-see landmarks include the Great Mosque of Tangier, notable for its tall minaret and striking colour. Built in 1684 and rebuilt in the 19th century, it has also served as a cathedral during Portuguese rule. The mosque is accessible via the Petit Socco and remains a key site for visitors. A visit to Café Hafa is also a delight. Perched on terraces overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, this century-old café exudes a bohemian charm and has hosted musicians and writers like the Rolling Stones, Juan Goytisolo, and Paul Bowles. Its whitewashed walls with splashes of indigo make it a perfect spot for relaxing and taking photos.
Tangier’s souks offer another layer of the city’s character. The Grand Socco, surrounding 9 April 1947 Square, is filled with stalls selling fresh produce, while the Petit Socco is known for artisan crafts. From slippers and rugs to lamps and silverware, shopping here is as much about the experience as it is about the purchase. Haggle, explore, and take in the vibrant atmosphere, you’re sure to find something memorable.