North Coast · Strait of Gibraltar
Tangier
Tangier sits at the meeting of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, just 14 km from Spain. Once an International Zone that drew Burroughs, Bowles and the Beats, it's now Morocco's fastest-modernising city — high-speed rail, new port, restored medina.
Things to do in Tangier
The Kasbah & Café Hafa
The walled citadel with sea-view terraces — Café Hafa has served mint tea since 1921 to everyone from the Rolling Stones to Paul Bowles.
Cap Spartel & Caves of Hercules
Where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean — visit the lighthouse and the sea cave shaped like a backwards Africa.
Grand & Petit Socco
The two main medina squares — perfect for people-watching with a coffee at the Gran Café de Paris.
Day trip to Asilah
A 45-minute drive south — whitewashed walls, mural-covered medina, and the best beach on the north coast.
April–June and September–October for mild Mediterranean weather. Summer is busy with Spanish day-trippers; winter is grey but cosy.
Tangier Ibn Battouta airport (TNG) and the high-speed Al-Boraq train from Casablanca (2h10) and Rabat (1h20). Ferries from Tarifa, Spain (1h).
Tangier travel FAQ
Is Tangier worth visiting?
Yes — for the literary history, the unique Mediterranean-Atlantic geography, and as a gateway to the Rif (Chefchaouen is 2h south).
How long in Tangier?
Two nights — one for the medina and Kasbah, one for Cap Spartel, the Caves of Hercules, and a meal in the New City.
Tangier or Casablanca?
Tangier has more soul and history; Casablanca is bigger and more business-focused. Tangier wins for most travellers.