Published 25th Jun. 2024
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An eclectic mix of Moroccan and Mediterranean, Tangier has long been considered Europe’s gateway to Africa. Whether you're savouring heartily spiced cuisine or immersing yourself in the rich culture and history, the city offers a feast for the soul and the senses. Overwhelmed by the myriad things to do in Tangier? Put your worries aside, as we’ve hand-picked some of the best ways to spend your time in the city. From losing yourself in the medina’s maze to relaxing in a coastal cafe, read on to discover how to make the most of Tangier…
Tangier’s medina is the historic heart of the city. Walled in by a 15th-century Portuguese fortress, the network of narrow streets provides a snapshot of authentic Moroccan life. Think stalls laden with spices, whitewashed houses, well-preserved mosques and equal parts hustle, bustle and beauty. Venture into the medina’s centre to find Petit Socco, a small souq packed with clothes and souvenirs for sale against a backdrop of stunning European and North African architecture. On the edge of the medina, you’ll find Grand Socco, the attractive entrance which was once flaunted by street sellers and snake charmers. Today, it’s the perfect place to settle into a cafe alongside locals and watch the world go by.
While everyday life on Tangier’s streets is compelling enough, step inside the Dar el Makhzen for a slice of hypnotic Moroccan culture. Situated in the Kasbah (a historic fortified area in the northern part of the city), this former sultan’s palace now houses a museum. Prepare to leave slack jawed as you’re greeted by two lavish inner courtyards, marble fountains and intricately carved wooden ceilings. The rooms once occupied by the prince now showcase Moroccan artwork, from mosaics to pottery and ancient Roman artefacts. As the palace sits at the city’s highest point, your visit will be encapsulated by views stretching out to Spain and the Straits of Gibraltar, making this one of the most scenic things to do in Morocco.
Spilling over a cliffside, Cafe Hafa is Tangier’s bustling bohemian hub. The tables dotted along the Mediterranean-facing terraces were once visited by the likes of Paul Bowles and the Rolling Stones, so it’s no shock that visitors flock here for artistic inspiration (as well as having a natter and a fresh mint tea while soaking up the serene sea view). It’s one of the more relaxing things to do in Tangier, so head here to recoup after a day of exploring under the Moroccan sun.
Morocco is begging to be explored, so use Tangier as a launchpad to visit the bewitchingly blue city of Chefchaouen. No one knows exactly why the houses are painted hundreds of hues of blue – some say it represents the sky and heaven, others say it keeps mosquitos away – but the resulting beauty is no mystery. Spend the morning wandering the alleys before hitting a hiking trail through the surrounding Riff Mountains, ogling at the abandoned Spanish Mosque, or shopping in the medina.
Leave the city behind and soak in the salty sea air with a trip to Cape Spartel, the most northwestern point of Morocco. Perched a breezy eight-mile drive from Tangier, the Cape Spartel Nature Reserve overlooks the area in which the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. Along with admiring the 19th-century lighthouse, combine your visit with a stroll to the nearby Caves of Hercules. Legend has it Hercules slept in this cave complex, and while you won’t catch sight of him today, they’re worth visiting nonetheless.
One of the simplest yet most satisfying things to do in Tangier is to follow your nose and indulge in culinary delights. Thanks to its coastal location, the city knows how to perfect dishes like grilled sardines and calamari, as well as traditional dishes such as spiced couscous and tagines. Dine like a local and seek out authentic restaurants tucked away on street corners (our Concierge can recommend the best secret spots to try) or hit more popular eateries that blend traditional flavours with a modern twist.
Written by Evie Buller | Header Image by Birgit Sfat.
As regular visitors to Morocco, we know our riads from our kasbahs and our tagines from our hariras. Whether travelling as a family or a couple, our consultants know the best accommodation options for you and can plan everything from intimate picnics in the Agafay Desert to authentic interactions with Berber families. Forget about the stress of moving from A to B, as we have first-hand experience with Moroccan rail and roads and can tailor your itinerary around their nuances. Our in-country Concierges even have restaurant recommendations galore; their advice is just a WhatsApp away.
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