Why Visit Tangier?
Tangier is unlike any other Moroccan city. It blends French, Spanish, and North African influences. It’s the kind of place where you can drink mint tea near ancient forts, shop in winding souks, then walk by the ocean all in one afternoon.
Whether you’re coming for the beaches, the food, or the history, there’s plenty to explore. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Tangier, starting with top attractions.
Top 7 Things to Do in Tangier
1. Explore the Medina
The Medina of Tangier is the heart of the city. These narrow, twisting alleys are full of surprises markets, street food vendors, and small artisan shops. Getting lost here is part of the fun.
Local tip: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and catch shopkeepers setting up for the day. If you’re lucky, one may offer you a sip of sweet Moroccan tea.
2. Visit the Kasbah Museum
Located in a former Sultan’s palace, the Kasbah Museum showcases Tangier’s varied past from Phoenician times to the colonial era. The views from the garden alone are worth the visit.
Want to get the most out of it? Take a guided tour. Locals say it gives much more context than just wandering on your own.
3. Stroll Along the Corniche
This beachside promenade is perfect for an evening walk. Watch the sun dip behind the ocean, or better yet, stop at a seaside café for coffee or mint tea.
It’s also a safe, scenic spot for solo travelers looking to explore on foot.
4. Day Trip to the Hercules Caves
Just a short drive from downtown Tangier are the Hercules Caves. These natural rock formations overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Legend has it Hercules himself slept here between his labors.
Make sure you check out the cave opening shaped like the map of Africa it’s one of the most photographed spots in Morocco.
5. Discover the Grand Socco
The Grand Socco is more than a traffic circle it’s where Tangier’s old world meets the new. Surrounded by shops, cafes, and old colonial buildings, it’s a great place to people-watch.
- Pro tip: Visit at sunset when the call to prayer echoes through the square. It’s a sensory experience you won’t forget.
6. Enjoy Art at the American Legation Museum
Did you know Tangier houses the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located abroad? The American Legation Museum tells the story of American-Moroccan relations and includes a fantastic collection of local art.
The building itself is charming and full of vintage maps, books, and artwork. It’s an underrated stop for history lovers.
7. Relax at Tangier Beach
If you need a break from sightseeing, head to Tangier Beach. It’s not Morocco’s most pristine, but it’s a peaceful spot to unwind. Grab an ice cream, take a camel ride, or just sit and chill by the sea.
Early mornings or late evenings are best for a quiet walk or a cooling breeze.
Where to Eat in Tangier: Local Food Tips
Wondering what to eat in Tangier? You’re in for a treat. Moroccan cuisine is packed with flavor from slow-cooked tagines to freshly grilled seafood. Here are some must-try dishes and spots to grab them.
1. Try a Traditional Tagine
Tagine is a classic Moroccan stew, cooked in a cone-shaped dish. You’ll find versions with chicken, beef, or lamb, often with olives or dried fruits. Try one at Le Saveur du Poisson, a tiny eatery loved by locals.
2. Fresh Seafood Near the Port
Tangier’s coastal location means one thing: fresh seafood is everywhere. Look for grilled sardines served with a squeeze of lemon. You can’t go wrong at Restaurant Ahlen, near the harbor.
3. Sip on Moroccan Mint Tea
Locals call it “Moroccan whiskey” but it’s just green tea with fresh mint and lots of sugar. You’ll find it served everywhere, often as a welcome drink.
- Best spot: Head to Café Hafa, a clifftop café where you can sip tea while taking in sweeping seaside views.
4. Street Food in the Medina
Feeling adventurous? Try local snacks like briouats (stuffed pastries) or Maakouda (fried potato cakes). They’re cheap, tasty, and easy to find in the Medina.
Local Travel Tips
- Currency: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency. Small cash is best for taxis and food stalls.
- Safety: Tangier is generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Language: Arabic and French are widely spoken. A few words in either go a long way.
- Bargaining: Haggling is expected in markets. Start at half the asking price and work your way up.
- Transport: For short trips, taxis are cheap. For nearby towns like Asilah, use the train or bus.
Final Thoughts
Tangier may not have the fame of Marrakech or the intensity of Fes, but that’s part of its charm. It’s more laid-back, yet full of character. Whether you’re soaking in coastal views, exploring the medina, or sharing a quiet plate of couscous with locals, Tangier leaves you with stories worth sharing.
