Quick answer: Spend at least one full day in Tangier: explore the Kasbah and the medina, have mint tea at Café Hafa, then drive to Cap Spartel and the Caves of Hercules. Add Asilah or Chefchaouen (about 2 hours away) on the following days.
For many travellers from Europe, Tangier is the first taste of Morocco – the city is just 14 km across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain. Here are the best things to do in Tangier and how to fit the city into a longer Morocco tour.
1. The Kasbah and the medina
Climb up to the Kasbah for views over the strait and visit the Kasbah Museum in the former sultan’s palace. Below, the medina’s Petit Socco square was once the heart of the international city.
2. Café Hafa
Open since 1921, this terraced café on the cliffs is famous for its mint tea and views of Spain on clear days.
3. Cap Spartel and the Caves of Hercules
Cap Spartel, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, is about 14 km west of the city. Nearby, the Caves of Hercules have a famous sea opening shaped like the map of Africa.
4. The American Legation
The first property owned by the US government abroad, now a museum telling the story of Morocco – US friendship, one of the oldest in American history.
5. Grand Socco and the Mendoubia gardens
The lively square at the entrance of the medina, with markets and the shady Mendoubia gardens.
6. Day trip to Asilah
Asilah, about 45 km south, is a whitewashed fishing town with ramparts and colourful murals, ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
7. Chefchaouen, the blue city
Chefchaouen is about 115 km from Tangier (2 hours). It is the most popular next stop after Tangier – read our Chefchaouen guide.
Getting to Tangier
Ferries link Tarifa and Algeciras in Spain with Tangier – see our ferry guide. Tangier also has an international airport and a high-speed train (Al Boraq) to Rabat and Casablanca.
How long to stay
One or two nights is enough for the city. Most travellers continue to Chefchaouen, Fes and the Sahara – for example on our 8-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech.
Tours related to this guide
- 3-Day Excursion: Tangier, Chefchaouen & Asilah
- 4-Day Tour from Tangier to Fez via Chefchaouen
- 6-Day Route from Tangier to Marrakech via the Sahara
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Frequently asked questions
Is Tangier worth visiting?
Yes. Tangier has a beautiful Kasbah, a fascinating international history and is the perfect entry point for a tour of northern Morocco.
How many days do you need in Tangier?
One full day covers the medina, Kasbah and Cap Spartel. Add a second day for Asilah.
How far is Chefchaouen from Tangier?
About 115 km, roughly 2 hours by road.
Can I visit Tangier on a day trip from Spain?
Yes, ferries from Tarifa take around one hour, but staying at least one night lets you enjoy the city without rushing.