Things to do in Tangier
The port city of Tangier is currently in full growth. A local told me that there were officially around one million inhabitants, but in fact that number had already risen to three million!
Just outside the city center, Tangier is booming at rapid pace, and therefore hundreds of new neighborhoods shoot from the ground like mushrooms.
I concentrated more on the city center and the old town. Because this still is the best place to be at and where most tourist attractions in Tangier are.
Tangier beach
A lot of Moroccans, but also tourists, visit Tangier to enjoy the beach. The beach of Tangier extends over a few miles and is rather quiet.
With modern landscaping and enjoyable paths along the sand it’s also very nice to walk next to and for doing some people watching.
Hidden on the beach of Tangier you might spot a camel now and then…
Tangier Kasbah
At the highest point of Tangier lies the Kasbah. One of the older parts of Tangier.
It’s a bit of climbing to get there, but from here you get the most beautiful view over the Gibraltar’s street. In addition, you can see the tip of Spain (Malaga) in clear weather!
The whitewashed and yellow-painted houses also reminded me of Mediterranean villages, but with a lot of Arab influences.
Personally, I found this to be one of the nicest city districts to explore. There are also a lot of beautiful parks, where you can rest a bit when you are tired from all that climbing.
The Kasbah of Tangier is very relaxed and quiet in comparison with the rest of the city.
Cafe Hafa
If you’re getting lost in the Kasbah of Tangier, you might come across Café Hafa.
This picturesque cafe is located on top of the Kasbah. From the outside it doesn’t look very big, but the different rows of terraces will make you thing differently once you enter! From here you get a phenomenal view of the azure sea and the many boats sailing from Morocco to Spain.
Tea, coffee and small dishes are served at reasonable prices. Keep an eye on your watch because you can spend several hours here without even knowing it!
The viewpoint from Café Hafa is excellent!
Medina of Tangier
The medina of Tangier begins and ends with a mosque. Car traffic is not allowed -and the narrow streets don’t really make this possible either- and it is therefore a paradise for pedestrians!
In the twisting and turning alleys you can find almost everything. Restaurants, cafes, bakeries, souvenir shops, … But the best thing about it is just the great amounts of people watching you can do here.
The medina of Tangier. Small… But one of the best things to do in Tangier!
Markets and souks
Lying in the medina of Tangier you’ll also find a variety of markets. One of the markets in Tangier you have to see is the Souk. This is a tourist attraction in itself!
A covered space in which everything is sold. Fragrant and colorful herbs, plucked chickens without head, all kinds of rubbish, … If you don’t mind the rancid smells of the many slaughterhouses, be sure to continue walking until the end. There is a second room in which fresh fish is sold.
You don’t need to buy anything, but it’s really worth walking around here.
The Souk of Tangier is rather small but nonetheless a great thing to do in Tangier!
Is Tangier safe?
Yes.
In general, Morocco is very safe, and as Tangier gets a lot of tourists, extra attention is paid to safety.
Of course, like everywhere, you need to be careful and you shouldn’t do stupid things. Try to adapt to the culture and avoid accidents or dangerous neighborhoods.
You will feel very safe in Tangier once you see the many European tourists strolling carefree through the streets.
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Hi, I'm Sam Van den Haute. The last three years I've been traveling the world almost constantly. Heading out for an adventure and visiting the most beautiful places are what I love to do! Let me inspire you with great stories, beautiful pictures and handy tips from my adventures and travels. On my facebook page and instagram account you'll get to see the latest updates and photos to inspire you for your next vacation.
Clea says:
Tangier is really an amazing place! Been a few times and will go back this year.
Fernando Garcia says:
It’s your piece whihc sealed the deal for me. Right now I am lookign at flights to Tangier for pssible late May trip.
I am skipping Fez because I am afraid it’s too hot.
Checkoutsam says:
Great! There’s not so much to do, but still… It’s quite a fun place to see!
Fez might be a little hot that time of the year, but keep in mind that most sights are inside the old city. Because everything is built so closely together, I imagine that the heat doesn’t get too bad there.
Enjoy your trip!
Sam
Daniele Benetton says:
Hello, just a quick question. There is only taxis from airport to city and back. Question: where do I find taxi from the city to airport? do I have to go to train station or…? Do taxis run at 6.30 in the morning? thanks!
Checkoutsam says:
Hi Daniele
There’s plenty of taxi’s on the streets. Just stop one and tell the man where you’re going (but don’t forget to name a price first!). There will certainly wait taxis at the train station, and maybe it’s even a bit easier to stop one over there and get a better price.
I’m sure there are taxis already driving at 6:30 AM, but the owners will probably charge you more. Don’t forget to haggle 😉 !