Tangier

Written by Sandrine Simon, Sebastien Simon
08/08/2025
A breathtaking view of Tangier's vibrant beach and surrounding landscape under a clear blue sky.
Oussama Elatrache, Pexels

Tangier offers a vibrant blend of cultures where African and European influences meet, making it a captivating destination. Travelers can explore ancient medinas, historical sites, and enjoy picturesque beaches.

The Old Medina is a lively area where one can wander through narrow streets and find numerous cafes and traditional shops. Grand Socco and Petit Socco are bustling squares where locals and visitors gather, providing a lively atmosphere. For evening entertainment, Avenue Hassan II and Boulevard Pasteur in the modern city offer various bars, clubs, and restaurants. The Corniche de Tanger, a beachfront promenade, also provides cafes and dining options for socializing.

Top 5 Things to do in Tangier

Activities in Tangier range from exploring historic fortresses and ancient markets to discovering natural wonders along the Atlantic coast.

1. Explore the Old Medina and Kasbah

Wandering through the labyrinthine alleys of the Old Medina offers an immersive cultural experience, where one can find bustling souks filled with local crafts and aromatic spices. The Kasbah, a historic fortified area perched on a hill, provides panoramic views of the city and the Strait of Gibraltar. Within the Kasbah, the former Sultan's Palace, Dar el Makhzen, now houses the Kasbah Museum, displaying a collection of Moroccan artifacts and art. Taking time to get lost in these winding streets reveals hidden squares, traditional architecture, and a glimpse into Tangier's past. Guided tours are available to provide deeper insights into the city's history and culture.

Cost: Exploring the Medina and Kasbah is free. Entrance to the Kasbah Museum is 20 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) for adults and 10 MAD for children. Guided tours vary in cost.

Transport: The Medina and Kasbah are centrally located and best explored on foot. Taxis can drop visitors at nearby gates, such as Bab Kasbah or near Grand Socco, from where one can walk into the old city.

2. Visit Cap Spartel and Hercules Caves

Cap Spartel is a dramatic headland where the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea reputedly meet, offering breathtaking ocean vistas and a historic lighthouse. Just a short distance away are the legendary Caves of Hercules, a natural grotto system known for a unique sea-facing opening shaped like the map of Africa. Visitors can explore the caves and enjoy the coastal scenery. Many tours also offer optional camel rides along the nearby Achakkar Beach, enhancing the coastal experience.

Cost: Entrance to the lighthouse and park area at Cap Spartel is 50 MAD for adults. Entrance to the Caves of Hercules for foreign adults is 80 MAD, and 40 MAD for foreign children (ages 7-13). There is also a 10 MAD fee for car parking. Camel rides typically incur an additional cost, often part of a tour package.

Transport: Cap Spartel and Hercules Caves are approximately 14 kilometers west of Tangier city center. A taxi ride from Tangier to this area can cost around 160 MAD for a round trip. The Tangier Hop-On Hop-Off bus includes a route that covers these attractions, with a 48-hour ticket costing around 130 MAD for both routes. Alternatively, one can take a grand taxi.

3. Relax at Café Hafa

Café Hafa is a historic and iconic café, famed for its tiered terraces overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar and the Spanish coast. It has been a popular meeting spot for artists and writers for decades, offering a tranquil setting to enjoy traditional Moroccan mint tea while taking in the panoramic views. It is an ideal place to unwind and soak in the city's relaxed atmosphere.

Cost: The cost is for drinks and food purchased. Entry to the cafe is free.

Transport: Café Hafa is located in the Marshan district, often within walking distance from parts of the Kasbah or a short taxi ride from the city center.

4. Stroll the Corniche de Tanger and Tangier Beach

The Corniche de Tanger is a lively beachfront promenade offering a pleasant space for walks, especially as the day winds down. Lined with cafes and restaurants, it provides opportunities to dine with ocean views. The adjacent Tangier Beach is a well-maintained sandy stretch where visitors can relax, sunbathe, or enjoy the sea breeze. Camel rides are often available along the shore, providing a unique way to experience the Atlantic coastline.

Cost: Access to the beach and corniche is free. Costs apply for camel rides, dining, or other activities.

Transport: The Corniche and Tangier Beach are easily accessible from most parts of the city center, often within walking distance or a short taxi ride.

5. Discover Perdicaris Park (Rmilat Forest)

Perdicaris Park, also known as Rmilat Forest, is a vast public park spanning 70 hectares with lush vegetation and pine-shaded paths. It provides a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle, offering breathtaking views of the Strait of Gibraltar. The park is home to hundreds of botanical species and serves as a migratory haven for various bird species, making it ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The renovated Villa Perdicaris within the park now functions as a heritage center.

Cost: Access to Parc Perdicaris is free.

Transport: Perdicaris Park is about 4 kilometers from the heart of Tangier. It can be reached by car or taxi via the Cap Spartel road. The Tangier tourist bus also includes a stop at the park, with day tickets costing around €15.

Check out our other pages on Tangier

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Morocco

Atlantic Coast
Central & High Atlas
Northern & Imperial Cities
Southern & Sahara Desert