Tangier, the gateway to Africa
Discover the city where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic.
Located in northwestern Morocco, Tangier has enormous historic and cultural significance. Travel to this port city that has fascinated artists and writers across the ages with its captivating blend of European and Moroccan influences, a beautiful Medina, colonial buildings and a busy port. Explore its narrow streets and bazaars, and take in the panoramic view of the Strait of Gibraltar.
Tangier is graced with mild Mediterranean weather, making it a great destination all year round. Tangier has fewer tourists and milder weather in spring and autumn, making it the best time to explore the city and its surroundings. Summer is the best time to enjoy the beaches, when the Atlantic and Mediterranean breezes keep the city cool. Winter, despite being the rainy season, is the perfect time to discover the city’s cultural attractions such as its museums and historic cafés.
Flying is the easiest way to get to Tangier, and Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport is served by regular flights from several European and African cities. The city is also well connected by sea, and ferries run between Tangier and several ports in Spain. The modern port of Tanger Med is 40 km away from the city and is one of the biggest in Africa.
Tangier’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan flavours, with dishes that reflect the city´s unique geographic location. Savour the fresh fish and seafood, cooked in a simple, mouthwatering fashion. Try traditional dishes such as harira, tajine and pastilla. Tangier’s cafés are known for their traditional sweets and famous mint tea, best enjoyed while people-watching in the streets of the Medina.
Tangier offers its visitors beautiful beaches on both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. Malabata beach is one of the top choices for chilling out or having a go at water sports. If you´re feeling adventurous, the Hercules Caves are a must-see attraction, an incredibly beautiful spot overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. Discover the green hills and hiking trails overlooking the sea in the areas surrounding Tangier.
Tangier’s fascinating cultural heritage has been shaped by the city’s strategic location and all the different influences to which it has been subjected for hundreds of years. The Tangier Medina is a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings, where you will find traditional bazaars and the legendary Café Hafa, a popular haunt for artists and writers. Visit the Kasbah, a fortress with incredible views of the Strait of Gibraltar, and learn about the city’s history at the Kasbah museum.