Tangier, often referred to as the “Gateway to Africa,” provided us with a preview of the unforgettable experiences that awaited us during our 9-day journey through Morocco. We chose Tangier as our starting point due to convenient flight options from Dublin via Spain, as well as its proximity to the famed blue city of Chefchaouen. With no set expectations, we arrived in Tangier early in the afternoon, ready to begin our Moroccan adventure. The relaxed atmosphere of Tangier’s medina made it an ideal starting point, especially since it’s far less hectic than the bustling cities of Fes and Marrakech.
In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing detailed city-by-city itineraries, leading up to a comprehensive guide on building your perfect Moroccan itinerary. Here’s a taste of what to do in Tangier for a day, along with some insider tips to enhance your experience.
What to Do in Tangier
Tangier is the perfect introduction to Morocco or a charming place to wrap up your journey. Wander through the ancient kasbah, explore your first medina, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, just a short distance from Europe.
- Wander the Medina: Prepare to get lost in Tangier’s winding streets, which is all part of the experience. Stroll through shops along Rue Les Almohades, including tourist favorites like Boutique Majid. Discover Petit Socco and Grand Socco, two lively squares where you can soak in the atmosphere. Nearby, you’ll find a local produce market.
- Lunch with a View: Enjoy a meal with rooftop views at Le Salon Bleu, located within the medina, where you can relax and take in the sights.
- Explore the Kasbah: After lunch, take time to visit the historic kasbah. Don’t miss the Kasbah Museum and the Sultan’s Garden (just be sure to check the opening hours as it closes for a long lunch break).
- Café Hafa: Step outside the kasbah and head to the iconic Café Hafa. Savor sweet Moroccan mint tea while overlooking the Mediterranean. This legendary café has been serving locals and tourists since 1921.
- Dinner at Le Saveur du Poisson: End your day with a seafood feast at Le Saveur du Poisson, where the menu consists of a set 4-course meal for 200 dirhams ($20 USD). With no reservations and no menu, the restaurant offers fresh fish dishes and a delectable fruit and nut dessert.
Where to Stay in Tangier
We opted to stay in riads and guesthouses during our time in Morocco, with our first stop at Dar Nour in Tangier. This beautifully decorated guesthouse is located in the old kasbah, offering charming rooms with unique designs. We stayed in the Salam mini-suite, which provided stunning rooftop views of the Mediterranean. Rooms range from 60-140 euros and include a delicious breakfast.
Where to Eat in Tangier
- Le Salon Bleu: Located at the top of the kasbah, this is a great spot for lunch or an afternoon tea break. Try their chicken couscous or order a plate of hummus to share, followed by a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea.
- Le Saveur du Poisson: If you love seafood, this is a must-visit. With no menu, you’ll enjoy a four-course meal that includes fish stew, fish skewers, grilled fish, and a fruit dessert. Be sure to come hungry!
- Le Nebab: Although we couldn’t visit, this restaurant in the medina looked like a great spot for more traditional Moroccan food.
Insider Tips for Visiting Tangier
- Pre-arrange transportation: If you’re staying at a riad or guesthouse, it’s a good idea to pre-book a taxi from the port (50 dirhams) or the airport (150 dirhams) to ensure a smooth arrival.
- Cash is king: Most places in Tangier, including accommodations, only accept cash due to high credit card fees. Make sure to stop at an ATM before arriving.
- Language: While some people in Tangier speak English, you’ll find it easier to communicate if you know some French or Arabic.
- Comfortable shoes: The streets in the medina and kasbah are uneven, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes. Also, pack a scarf or a sweater for the cooler, windy evenings on the rooftop.
- Guides: Young men outside guesthouses may offer to guide you to your destination for a small fee. While most are friendly, they can be persistent. Politely decline by saying “no shukran” (no thank you).
- Safety: While Tangier is generally safe, it’s easy to get lost at night. Stick to well-lit areas and be cautious when exploring after dark.
- Time in Tangier: You don’t need more than a day in Tangier to experience its charm. It’s a great place to start your Moroccan journey, but don’t worry—there’s so much more to discover as you explore the rest of the country.
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