Tourism in Tangier
Tourism in Tangier, Morocco, located in the north of the Kingdom of Morocco on the Mediterranean coast, is the sixth largest city in Morocco and one of the most important cities in it. Tangier receives annually about 47% of the total foreign tourists coming to Morocco due to its prominent tourist attractions.
Tourism in Morocco Tangiers is one of the most important resources of the city. It is rich in tourism and distinctive nature. An example of this is the ancient city that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, which is characterized by its doors and towers, in addition to the Rumailat Forest, the Grotto of Hercules and others.
Tangiers Hotels
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| Affordable, vibrant hotel, suitable for everyone |
Affordable, vibrant hotel, suitable for everyoneThe ibis Tangier City Center is located in its contemporary complex. It features 196 air-conditioned rooms with bathroom, desk area and satellite TV. We provide free and unlimited access to wifi and our organization also has 3 meeting rooms for you to organize your seminars and conferences. The hotel offers wonderful moments of relaxation in the outdoor pool, its bar is open day and night, and its restaurant serves Wok.Just 10 minutes from the bay beaches, the ibis Tangier City Center lets you enjoy the city's trendy bars, clubs and restaurants. The historic center is only 3 km away, so you will only need a 10 minute drive to get to the American Legation, the old town and the Kasbah. A little further and you'll find Cape Spartel Nature Reserve and the Caves of Hercules. Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport is less than 30 minutes away by car
Tangier includes many apartments and hotels in Morocco, which vary according to their luxury, level of service, and even prices. Because the task of choosing the right hotel for the tourist is somewhat difficult, we have collected the best hotels in Tangier, especially near the tourist attractions in Tangier..read more
Tangiers is characterized by being a meeting point between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean on the one hand, and between the European and African continents on the other. Tangier is the capital of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region and is one of the most important cities in Morocco. The city is considered one of the most important centers of commerce and industry in North Africa. It is also an important economic pole due to the large number of institutions and contracting headquarters, and one of the most important political, economic, cultural and educational centers in Morocco. The history of Tangiers is very rich due to it being the meeting point of many Mediterranean civilizations. The city was established to be a Berber metropolis and a Carthaginian port during the fifth century BC. Several successive civilizations have influenced this city, starting with the Greeks and ending with the Islamic civilization.
Tangiers is among the oldest cities of Morocco, founded by the Carthaginians around the tenth century BC and settled by Phoenician merchants in the fifth century BC; It soon assumed a trading center on the shores of the Mediterranean. The Roman Empire annexed it in the first century BC, and in 42 AD it became the capital of the Roman province (Mauritania Tanga). In the year 534, the Byzantines seized the city, which delegated its rule to the Visigothic Kingdom in Spain, in the name of Caesar Constantinople until the Umayyads conquered it in 702.
The most important tourist places in Tangier
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The Cave of Hercules in Tangiers, Morocco, is the most interesting this year |
The Hercules Cave in Tangiers in the Kingdom of Morocco is one of the most wonderful and distinguished tourist places in Tangier, and it is also one of the most famous landmarks in the Kingdom of Morocco.
The Hercules Cave Tangiers is characterized by being one of the largest caves in Africa, as it extends over a distance of 30 square meters in the bottom of the mountain, and overlooks the most beautiful marine and green natural landscapes.
The history of the Hercules Cave in Tangier, according to studies, dates back to the third century BC and was discovered in the late 1906 AD. Many myths and legends have been woven around it and the nature of its formation.
Most notably, the son of the Greek goddess Heraclius was imprisoned in the mountain, and he struck a strong blow that caused a large opening in the mountain, and today it is one of the largest tourist attractions in the country and is visited by millions annually.
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Activities you can do inside the Cave of Hercules Tangiers |
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• Then you can enter the cave and enjoy it from the inside, as the cave overlooks the most beautiful scenic views between the ocean and the sea |
Prices of tickets for the Cave of Hercules Tangiers
The price of one ticket per person when visiting the Cave of Hercules Tangier is 10 Moroccan dirhams, equivalent to 1.11 US dollars.
Times to visit the Cave of Hercules Tangiers
You can visit the Cave of Hercules in Tangiers with your family or friends on a daily basis from 09:00 in the morning until 08:00 in the evening.
Hercules Cave, which is located in the city of Tangiers, Morocco, is considered one of the largest caves in Africa, and there are catacombs extending to a distance of 30 meters in the ground.
The cave attracts many tourists annually, and the cave is characterized by the fact that it overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and the Strait of Gibraltar, and the Cave of Hercules is considered one of the most important tourist places in Morocco.
Where the waters of the Mediterranean embrace the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, which makes the cave one of the most beautiful places of tourism in Tangier.
The best activities you can do in the Cave of Hercules
• You can wander around the cave from the outside and see the ancient drawings carved on the rock and see its external shape, which resembles the map of Africa.
It is the best place to take some souvenir photos.
• After completing your special tour in the Grotto of Hercules, you can sit in one of the nearby cafes and enjoy the scenic views
Plus get some snacks and drinks.
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| old City |
The old city of Tangier is considered one of the most beautiful tourist places in Tangier,
Where the old city consists of alleys, ancient mosques, and many old Moroccan buildings,
One of the most famous places that you can find in the old city is Petit Socco, which is the beating heart of the old city.
Old men sit there for hours drinking tea and playing backgammon, and a walk around this square is a must for visitors to Tangiers.
In the east of the square, you will find many mosques, such as: The Great Mosque, but the most famous of them is the Great Mosque, which is one of the most famous mosques located in the old city and intended for most tourists to enjoy looking at the authentic Moroccan architecture.
Tangier's tourist beach is one of the most popular attractions for locals and tourists around the world.
Tangier Beach is ranked as the fourth best beach in the world, where you can enjoy a special vacation in Tangier Beach in an environment with high quality specifications,
You can do many activities there such as: hiking and playing football along the beach and you will have more fun when riding camels and watching the picturesque sand dunes.
Cap Spartel
One of the most beautiful tourist places in Tangier is the famous Ras Spartel lighthouse in Tangier, which is visited by many tourists to see the picturesque Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse is located on the northwestern edge of Africa.
The best time to go there is at sunset to see the wonderful view of the ocean and to take some pictures
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| the shopping |
In Tangiers, you will also find a variety of different souks, including the Grand Souk, where you will enjoy wandering through a covered area where everything is sold, so do not miss to buy souvenirs among the local antiques and the wonderful handicraft products offered there.
As you can see, Tangier is definitely a must-visit place if you are coming to Morocco, just plan your trip well, and you will be able to see some of the most beautiful places in the world.
Tips before traveling to Tangier, Morocco
Tangiers has always been romanticized by the artists, Bet poets, and writers who come to its crowded shores in search of adventure. Tangiers is a gateway to Africa for many travelers. Cruise ships often dock there on their way from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, and travelers in Europe find it easy to take a quick ferry from Spain to the port of Tangiers. (More on getting to Tangiers below).
While most visitors to Tangier come for a day, there are some lovely boutique hotels you can stay in, and once you know how to avoid some of the crowds, you'll appreciate Tangier much more by spending a few days here.
What do you see in Tangier?
Tangiers doesn't have a totally offbeat glamor in the 1940s and '50s when you could have grabbed the shoulders of the likes of Truman Capote, Paul Bowles and Tennessee Williams, but if you give it some time and ignore the tourists, it will grow on you. Tangiers is an interesting cosmopolitan blend of African and European influences. It's a seaside town and port towns are always around the edges. Tangier is not very nice at night.
As with many cities in Morocco, there is an old town (the Medina) and a new town (Ville Nouvelle).
Medina: Tangiers (the old walled city) is a lively place, its alleys filled with shops, cafés, and brothels (it's a port city after all). Tourist walls are here, if this is your only stop in Morocco, buy it away. But if you plan to continue traveling in Morocco, you will find better deals elsewhere.
American delegate: Morocco was the first country to recognize American independence, and the United States established a diplomatic mission in Tangiers in 1821.
Now a museum, the American delegation is located in the southwest corner of town and is well worth a look. The museum houses some great art including a room dedicated to Paul Bowles and works by Eugene Delacroix, Yves Saint Laurent, and James McBee.
Place de France: the heart of the ville nouvelle and the social focal point of Tangier's middle classes.
A good place to enjoy some tea and enjoy the sea view is the highly recommended Terrasse des Paresseux east of the place.
The Kasbah: The Kasbah is located on a high hill in Tangiers with some good views of the ocean. Located within the walls of the Kasbah, the Sultan's old palace (built in the 17th century) is known as Dar al-Makhzen and is now a museum housing fine examples of Moroccan art.
The Grande Scoo: A large plaza at the main entrance to town is a busy transportation hub and a good place to watch the chaos of traffic, carriages, and people going about their daily routines.
Beaches: The beaches near the city are rather dirty, as is the water. Find the best beaches about 10 km west, outside the city.
To reach Tangier and far
Tangiers is a short ferry ride from Spain and the gateway to the rest of Morocco whether you're traveling by bus or train.
Arrival in Tangiers from Spain (and back)
Morocco is located only 14.4 km from Spain. High speed ferries can only take 30 minutes (intermittent) to cross.
Algeciras (Spain) to Tangiers (Morocco): Algeciras to Tangiers is the most popular route to Morocco. High-speed ferries travel nearly hourly, year-round and take about 30 minutes to cross. There are also slower ferries that are a little cheaper.
A round-trip ticket for a passenger on foot, on a high-speed ferry, costs 37 EUR
Tarifa (Spain) to Tangiers (Morocco): High-speed ferries depart every two hours from the Spanish windsurfing capital, Tarifa, and take 35 minutes to reach Tangier. FRS does good service on this route, and a round-trip adult ticket will set you back approximately €37.
Barcelona (Spain) to Tangiers (Morocco): This is not a popular route, but it is handy if you want to avoid traveling to southern Spain. Grand Navi is the company that operates these ferries. A round-trip ticket for one passenger in one seat (instead of the berth) costs about 180 euros. Ferries take 24 hours to reach Morocco and 27 hours for the return trip. There is usually one ferry scheduled per day.
Ferries from Italy and France to Tangier
You can also take a ferry to Tangiers from Italy (Genoa), Gibraltar and France (City).
Getting to and from Tangiers by train
If you plan to take a train to visit Fez or Marrakech, getting to Tangier is the best option for rail connections to these destinations. Tanger Ville train station is located about 4 kilometers southeast of the ferry port and bus station. Take a small taxi, make sure the meter is working, to get to and from the train station. More about: Train travel in Morocco and the night train from Tangiers to Marrakesh.
Getting to and from Tangier by bus
The main long-distance bus terminal, CTM, is located directly outside the ferry port terminal. You can take buses to all major cities in Morocco. Buses are comfortable and everyone gets a seat.
Where to stay in Tangiers
Tangier has a wide range of accommodation and accommodations varying from cheap and shabby, to excellent riads (boutique hotels in restored palaces). Tangier is not a comfortable place to visit, so finding a good hotel that will give you a little respite from the crowds, will make your visit more enjoyable. Make sure to book your first night early, there are plenty of hustlers in Tangier who will show you the hotel. Here are some recommended hotels in Tangier that reflect my personal taste for mid-range intimate hotels:
La Tangerina: A lovingly restored boutique hotel, with 10 unique rooms. The hotel is located in the Kasbah, one of the most upscale areas of Tangier, and is located on a hill overlooking the rest of the city. Enjoy meals on the rooftop terrace, with traditional Moroccan cuisine available for dinner. Tangerina has the highest ratings on Tripadvisor for all Tangier hotels. Prices start from 45 euros per night.
Dar Jameel: If you want to stay in the heart of the city, Dar Jameel is an excellent choice. This boutique hotel offers 8 unique suites around a central inner courtyard, on 5 levels. Each room is beautifully decorated with traditional Moroccan furniture and crafts. Breakfast is included in the rate. Room rates start from 48 euros per night.
Dar Nour: A small, boutique hotel located in the Kasbah, convenient to all the main sights. The rooftop terrace is gorgeous, overlooking the city and ocean in the distance, and this is where you have your breakfast. There are 7 unique rooms to choose from, elegantly decorated with authentic Moroccan tiles and carpets. and furniture. Prices start at 63 euros per night, including breakfast.
Dar Neelam: An upscale boutique hotel in Tangier that offers personalized service, luxurious decor, and pick up from the ferry (a nice touch). The hotel has 5 unique rooms, a small garden and a swimming pool. Dinner is traditional Moroccan fare, breakfast is included in the room rate. The hotel is located 1 mile from the city center and close to the beach. Prices start from 80 euros per night.
When you go to Tangier
The best time to visit Tangier is from September to November and from March to May. The weather is perfect, not too hot, and the tourist season has not yet reached the swing stage. You also have a better chance of finding a room in a nice riad (see above) for a good price.
Getting around Tangier
The best way to get around Tangier is either on foot or in a small taxi. Ensure that the driver is using the meter correctly. Grand taxis are much more expensive and you have to negotiate the price in advance. Of course, you can always get a personal guide through the hotel (see above), or book a day tour before arriving in Tangier.
Dealing with hustlers - "Touts" in Tangiers
Tangiers is notorious among regular "constant" visitors. A Tout is someone who is trying to sell you something (a good or service) in an imported way. The moment you approach the ferry or train, you will meet the first "trot". Follow the advice below and you will have a much better time in Tangier.
Let's say anything is free
While friendly people thrive in Tangier, be careful when you are in a tourist area and they offer you something "for free". It is rarely free.
Many people will give you advice on where to buy a train ticket or ferry ticket, but beware that these people work on commission. You can easily buy your ticket and fill out your forms. Be firm, say "no thanks" and look confident. If you don't already know where to go, be aware that you will eventually pay a tip for help with directions, no matter how many times the offer is given "for free".
A "free" guided tour around the city will likely lead to an umrah shop or a request for money at the end of the tour. It may also include stores that you don't care to see remotely. A "free" cup of tea might include looking at a lot of carpet.
If you hear the word “free,” the price you pay is often not under your control.
But remember that your guides are simply people trying to make a living to support their families. While robbing gullible tourists may not seem like the most honest way to make money, it is b
Mediation is a survival tactic, and you should not take it personally. Firm "No Thanks" is the best way to handle the situation. A sense of humor goes a long way.
Hotels do not appear suddenly
This tip is especially useful for independent travelers. When you arrive in Tangier, either at the bus station, train station or ferry port, you will be greeted by many people, inquiring loudly, where you want to go. Many of these people will receive a commission for transporting you to a hotel of their choice. This doesn't necessarily mean the hotel is bad, it just means that you may end up in an area you don't want to be in; Your room rate will be higher to cover the commission, or the hotel may be really bad.
Hotel touts a lot of clever techniques to scare gullible tourists into following them to the hotel they get commissions from. They might ask you what hotel you booked, and then definitely tell you that hotel is full, has moved, or is in a bad area. Some hotels will even go so far as to pretend to call the hotel for you and get a friend on the phone to tell you the hotel is full.
Don't believe the hype, book with a hotel before you arrive, especially if you're arriving in the evening. Your guide will have the phone numbers of all the hotels they list, or you can search online before you go. Take a taxi and insist that they take you to the hotel of your choice. If your taxi driver pretends not to know the location of your hotel, take another taxi.
Better to pay a little more for your first night in Tangier than to end up somewhere you don't want to be.
Avoid Tout (Hustlers) completely
If you want to avoid a lot of unwanted attention, the best thing is to take a Tangier tour. You may still end up in shops you don't want to see, and won't go off the beaten path - but if it's your first time in Africa, it might be more fun.
Guided tours from Tangier
Most hotels will arrange a tour for you as well as tours to nearby attractions and cities outside of Tangier. There are plenty of tour agencies near the ferry ports in Spain and Gibraltar that have scheduled day trips. You will be with a group on these tours which have some advantages and disadvantages. Regardless, checking out itineraries will help you know what to see in Tangier.
What to wear in Tangiers
Long pants or long skirts/dresses are recommended. A woman will get a lot of unwanted attention by walking around a tanga in shorts or a miniskirt. Wear a 3/4-sleeved T-shirt.