Tangier is a beautiful city, Europeans vacation here often for good reason. Writers, artists, and travelers have been drawn here for centuries—lured by its winding medina, sweeping coastal views, and the sense that you’re standing at the edge of two worlds.
It is perched at the northern tip of Morocco, and the start point of the African continent. Tangier is also where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, it has long been a place of mystery, inspiration, and cultural fusion.
On my first visit, I quickly realized that Tangier isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right. Whether you’re here for a day trip or a longer stay, these are the top things to do in Tangier that capture the city’s essence.
- 1. Wander the Tangier Medina
- 2. Explore the Kasbah
- 3. Visit Borj Dar El-Baroud Museum
- 4. Savor Moroccan Cusine
- 5. Discover Cape Spartel
- 6. Make a Stop at Hercules Cave
- 7. Stroll Along Tangier’s Beaches
- 8. Pay Tribute to Ibn Battuta
- 9. Museum: Learn About Tangier's Liberation Movement
- 10. Take a Day Trip to Chefchaouen and explore the blue city
- Practical Tips for Visiting Tangier
1. Wander the Tangier Medina
The Medina of Tangier is a maze of narrow alleys, colorful doors, and bustling souks. Unlike the intensity of Marrakech, or the calmness of Chefchauen, Tangier’s medina feels more relaxed, making it perfect for slow exploration.
- Petit Socco: Once a gathering place for writers and spies, today it’s lined with cafés where you can sip mint tea and watch the world go by.
- Grand Socco: A lively square that connects the old and new city, especially vibrant in the evenings.
2. Explore the Kasbah
At the top of the medina lies the Kasbah, a historic fortress overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. Inside, you’ll find:
- Kasbah Museum (Dar el Makhzen): Showcasing Moroccan art, artifacts, and history.
- Panoramic Views: From the Kasbah walls, you can see Spain across the water on a clear day. Now, don’t expecting to see Madrid or Barcelona from here, but you can see Spain in the horizon.
3. Visit Borj Dar El-Baroud Museum
Borj Dar El-Baroud is a historic military fortification located at the northeastern edge of Tangier’s medina. Built in the 15th century, it once guarded the city against naval threats from the Strait of Gibraltar, reflecting Tangier’s strategic importance as a gateway between continents. On a quick day tour of Tangier, most will show you this place from the outside. I had to experience it for myself, and the entrance fee was worth every penny.
Here you will find stone ramparts and artillery remnants that evoke centuries of military vigilance. You’ll also get panoramic views of the port and medina from the tower’s vantage points. As much as I love traveling the crowed areas can take away from the experience, this museum is one usually skipped by tourists; I had it all to myself!! 🙂
- Architectural models of Tangier’s seven major fortresses
- Historical exhibits on weapons, uniforms, and coastal defense strategies
- Photographs and maps tracing the evolution of Tangier’s fortified landscape
Borj Dar El-Baroud isn’t just a relic—it’s a storyteller. From its cannon-lined walls to its immersive exhibits, this fortress invites travelers to reflect on Tangier’s layered past and its role as a cultural and military crossroads.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer crowds
- Photography Tip: Capture the contrast between ancient walls and modern Tangier skyline
- Nearby Attractions: Kasbah Museum, American Legation, and the Port of Tangier Ville
4. Savor Moroccan Cusine
No trip to Tangier is complete without enjoying mint tea at local Café, and of course savoring the delicious cuisine full of flavor and color to keep you touring.
5. Discover Cape Spartel
Cape Spartel is a dramatic headland located just west of Tangier, Morocco, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Perched atop the cliffs is the iconic Cape Spartel Lighthouse, built in 1864, offering sweeping views of the coastline and sea convergence. Whether you’re drawn by the natural beauty, the symbolic geography, or the peaceful trails, Cape Spartel is a must-visit for travelers seeking both inspiration and adventure.
Cape Spartel’s area is part of a protected nature reserve, making it a serene escape from the bustle of the city. Visitors often pair a trip to Cape Spartel with nearby Hercules Cave, whose sea-facing opening is famously shaped like the map of Africa.
6. Make a Stop at Hercules Cave
Nearby, the Caves of Hercules are steeped in legend—said to be where Hercules rested after parting the continents. The cave’s opening to the sea, shaped like the map of Africa, is must-see. Be warned, this is a popular spot for tourists, and it will be crowded.
7. Stroll Along Tangier’s Beaches
Tangier’s coastline offers both city beaches and quieter escapes:
- Playa Municipal: Right by the city, perfect for a quick stroll.
- Achakkar Beach: A wilder stretch of sand near Cape Spartel.
8. Pay Tribute to Ibn Battuta
Tangier is the birthplace of the legendary traveler Ibn Battuta. His tomb, though modest, is a meaningful stop for those inspired by journeys and exploration.
9. Museum: Learn About Tangier’s Liberation Movement
The Espace de la Mémoire Historique de la Résistance et de la Libération de Tanger is a local history museum dedicated to preserving Morocco’s legacy of resistance and independence. Located in Tangier across from Grand Socco, this cultural space offers a thoughtful look into the city’s role during the national liberation movement.
This museum is a meaningful stop for travelers interested in Morocco’s modern history and Tangier’s role in shaping national identity. At this museum you will find exhibits on Morocco’s resistance fighters and liberation history. Historic photographs, documents, and artifacts, and a quiet escape from the crowds. This is a reflective atmosphere ideal for history lovers.
10. Take a Day Trip to Chefchaouen and explore the blue city
Practical Tips for Visiting Tangier
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for mild weather.
- Getting There: Tangier is well connected by ferry from Spain (Tarifa, Algeciras) and by train from major Moroccan cities.
- Day Trips: From Tangier, you can easily visit Chefchaouen (the Blue Pearl), Asilah, or the Rif Mountains.
Tangier is a city that rewards curiosity. From sipping tea above the sea to wandering centuries-old streets, every corner tells a story. It’s a place where Africa and Europe almost touch, where history and modern life intertwine, and where travelers find both inspiration and adventure.
If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, make sure Tangier isn’t just a stopover—it deserves a chapter of its own.
