Travel to Tangier! Tangier is a different city, its multiculturalism makes it very attractive and it is also the perfect entrance to Morocco from Spain. Tangier has been the protectorate of many countries, making it a cosmopolitan and international city. You will be surprised how a city that is so close to Spain can create such a great cultural contrast.
Tangier is a busy Moroccan port city located at the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. And, it is true, Tangier is bustling and, precisely, this is one of its charms, unlike many other tourist cities. It is possible that, upon arrival, you may feel overwhelmed by the cultural contrast, but we encourage you to let yourself go and discover everything that Tangier can offer you as a destination for your holidays.
Tangier, the perfect entry to Morocco from Spain
It is true that Tangier does not have such a rich historical heritage as the imperial cities of Morocco: Marrakech, Meknes, Fez and Rabat. Still, the easy access from Spain and its location in the north of the country, make it a perfect destination from which to start a tour of Morocco.
To get to Tangier, you can choose almost any type of transport: plane, boat, car, bus … From the main Spanish cities, you will find cheap and direct flights.
If you prefer to travel to Tangier with your car, you can do it from the ports of Motril, Almería, Algeciras or Tarifa. From these points, you can board the ferries that leave from here and reach the city of Tangier. These boats leave approximately every hour. You can buy your ticket at the same port or in advance through an online agency. To travel with your vehicle, you need:
- Valid driving license.
- International insurance.
Travel to Tangier by boat or ferry
To travel by boat, you do not necessarily have to do it with your car, but you can make this journey by buying a single passenger ticket. You can do the following routes:
- Algeciras – Tangier (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes).
- Tarifa – Tangier (55 minutes).
- Motril – Tangier (approximately 8 hours).
In this sense, the ports of Tangier and Casablanca register the highest number of passengers since there are ferries in other parts of Europe. It is important to know that Tangier has two ports: one located in the same city (Tangier Ville) and another located 40 kilometers away (Tangier Med). Make sure in advance what your destination port will be.
Another important aspect if you travel in Summer is the famous “Operation Marhaba”, at which time many Moroccans return to their country to spend their holidays. It could be that during this period, there are busy routes and long queues.
If you decide to travel to Tangier by bus, you will also go through the Strait and take one of the ferries that leave from Spain. The difference is that your bus ticket already includes the boat trip. All travelers must report to the customs and immigration services before crossing the Strait.
If you want more information about the companies that operate between Spain and Morocco, you can consult this page.
What to see in Tangier. 10 places you can’t miss
Tangier is a very varied destination where the ocean meets the sea, the water coexists with the mountains and the hectic life of the medina is combined with that of the new city. In Tangier you can find beaches in every corner, even under its walls. Many travelers say that you need just one day to get to know Tangier, we recommend at least two nights to soak up its essence.
Here are the visits that you cannot miss on your trip to Tangier:
- Medina of Tangier: when you visit any city in Morocco, you cannot miss a walk in the Medina. Furthermore, it is a pedestrianized area where cars are not allowed. The Medina has a lot of life, it is the ideal place to find all the typical Moroccan products and to get an idea of its people, their lifestyle and their working hours.
- The Grand Mosque of Tangier: This mosque has been a symbol of conquests and cultures that have passed through Tangier. Its history has turned it into a space that brings together the rich and varied history of Morocco, in addition to being a striking architectural point.
- Plaza 9 de abril: also known as the Great Souk. You can have a drink on the terraces, see the Sidi Bouabid Mosque from outside and observe the life of the natives.
- The Mendoubia Gardens: peculiar gardens where silence prevails and where you can enjoy a pleasant walk. Here is the Bab El-Fas gate to enter the medina.
- The Kasbah of Tangier: this beautiful area is one of the oldest in the city. It is the old walled city with labyrinthine streets where it is easy to get lost. Let yourself go, you will be surprised to walk and not know where each street will end, due to its architectural irregularity.
- The Central Market: it is an experience that you have to live on your visit to Tangier. Also, from there you can go to Siaghine Street and discover the Jewish quarter.
- Calle Italia: you will be able to see a little piece of the Spanish Tangier in the form of a movie theater built in 1913 with a capacity of 700 seats where films in Spanish were shown. It is called the Alcázar Cinema.
- Cap Spartel and the Caves of Hercules: if you have the opportunity, don’t miss this place located on the outskirts of Tangier. A relaxed area with views of the strait just 14 kilometers from the city.
- Go to the beach: as we mentioned at the beginning, Tangier has many beaches, both in the Atlantic Ocean and in the Mediterranean Sea. Which one do you prefer to go to?
- Tangier Port: If you like to appreciate the local life, you can take a walk around the port and discover how fishermen work.
Tips for your trip to Tangier
Traveling to Tangier is safe but we do recommend that you take certain precautions. Check for visa and necessary documentation before you travel to Morocco.
If you want to travel to Tangier with a guided tour to get the most out of your trip to Morocco, we recommend this 12-day tour to get to know the country in depth, departing from Tangier.
