Tangier

Tangier, a port city in northern Morocco, sits at the intersection of Europe and Africa on the Strait of Gibraltar. Its location has influenced its development as a city with diverse cultural influences. In the medina, you'll find the Grand Socco marketplace and the Kasbah fortress overlooking the sea, both remnants of Tangier's past as an international zone. The city's beaches and recent urban developments showcase its ongoing evolution as a modern Moroccan city.

Exploring the Medina

The core of Tangier is its old medina, a network of narrow alleys and white-painted buildings. Enter through the Bab Fass gate to discover small shops selling carpets, spices, and local crafts. Look for the blue doors that contrast with the white walls. At the medina's peak is the Kasbah, a fortified citadel that was once the sultan's residence. Today, it houses the Dar el Makhzen museum, which displays Moroccan arts and crafts.

Grand Socco and Petit Socco

Two main squares anchor Tangier's old town. The Grand Socco, officially Place du 9 Avril 1947, marks where the new city meets the medina. This active plaza has street performers and vendors, particularly in the evenings. From here, walk into the medina to find the Petit Socco, a smaller square that was central to Tangier's café culture. While quieter now, you can still drink mint tea at Café Central and imagine past literary figures like William Burroughs and Jack Kerouac discussing their work at nearby tables.

Coastal Areas

Tangier's location between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean gives it several beaches. The city beach, a long sandy stretch below the medina walls, is popular with locals and visitors during summer. For a calmer experience, go to Achakkar Beach, about 14 kilometers west of the city center. Nearby, you can explore the Caves of Hercules, a series of caverns with mythical associations. One cave opening resembles the shape of Africa, framing a view of the sea.

Cultural Influences

Tangier's status as an international zone from 1923 to 1956 significantly impacted its culture. This period drew a variety of artists, writers, and expatriates, contributing to the city's creative atmosphere. You can see this legacy at the Tangier American Legation Museum, the only U.S. National Historic Landmark outside the United States. It contains art and artifacts related to Moroccan-American relations.

Culinary Scene

Tangier's food reflects its multicultural background. In the medina, you'll find Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous in small restaurants. For seafood, visit the fish market near the port, where you can choose fresh fish and have it grilled immediately. Try mint tea at Café Hafa, a cliffside establishment with views of the Strait of Gibraltar. This café has been popular with locals and visitors since 1921.

Day Trips from Tangier

Tangier is well-positioned for exploring northern Morocco. A common excursion is to Chefchaouen, about two hours southeast of Tangier. This mountain town is known for its blue-painted buildings and relaxed atmosphere. Closer to Tangier, visit Cape Spartel, where a 19th-century lighthouse marks Africa's northwestern tip. The nearby Rmilat Forest has hiking trails and picnic areas with Atlantic Ocean views.

Getting Around

Tangier connects well to other Moroccan cities and Europe. The new high-speed train line links Tangier to Casablanca in just over two hours. In the city, petit taxis are common and affordable for short trips. To explore the medina, walking is best, allowing you to experience the sights and sounds of this old quarter fully.