Tangier, once one of the most decadent cities on earth, holds many sites and attractions to entice travelers. This Moroccan city is just a ferry ride across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain. The Hispano Moorish architecture and prominent craft industry makes Tangier an amazing place for travelers looking for amazing sites, culture, and history.
Tangier is a melting pot of many different cultures. Before becoming part of the independent nation of Morocco, the city was held by several different countries including the Portuguese, French, and British. Due to its location, this port city serves as both the “Gateway to Africa” for Europeans, and the “Portal to Europe” for much of Africa. There are so many tantalizing sites to see in Tangier! Check out these top 5:
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1. Explore the Medina
You could spend days exploring the ancient, narrow corridors of the Tangier medina (old town). Walking through the medina is like taking a walk through history. Contained within the walls of the 15th century Portuguese fortress, the maze of whitewashed alleyways is filled with both commercial and residential structure. Inching up from the old port, the Tangier medina is compact and easy to navigate.
Just south of the Kasbah you will find the former home of the “poor little rich girl” Barbara Hutton. The Woolworth heiress lived in Tangier from 1947 to 1975. She styled herself as the princess of Tangerine society but was in fact a princess by marriage with three of her four husbands. Only Cary Grant failed to hold a title (or at least off stage). Her parties were legendary, and she even convinced the mayor of Tangier to widen the Kasbah gates to accommodate her Rolls-Royce.
Take time to marvel at the architecture. There are thousands of Insta-worthy Tangier sites awaiting you around every corner. The gorgeous Moorish arches, doors, and ceramic tile-work will overwhelm you.
2. Rock the Kasbah
The Kasbah of Tangier served as the political and military seat of power since the Roman era. Visit the Kasbah Museum in the former royal palace with its hand-crafted plasterwork and painted ceilings. The museum houses mosaics from the Roman city of Volubilis, Moroccan ceramics and other crafts, and a collection of manuscripts.
Adjacent to the palace complex, the Kasbah Mosque dates to the late 17th century, right after Morocco reclaimed the city from the English in 1684. Like other Moroccan mosques, the interior is rather plain, with white walls and several Moorish arches. The entrance; however, features a Moorish arch with tiled geometric motifs. Also, the decorated octagonal shaped minaret is unique among others in Morocco.
You will have a stunning view of the Bay of Tangier and the Straits of Gibraltar just outside the Bab Bhar gate.
3. Visit the Cape and the Home of Hercules
You will find Cape Spartel just outside Tangier. This promontory located at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar is about 1,000 feet above sea level. Below the cape, you will find the Caves of Hercules.
Visit the lighthouse at Cape Spartel for a breathtaking view of the Strait of Gibraltar. The lighthouse was built in the 19th century to prevent shipwrecks against the cliff. Also consider taking a relaxing hike along the coastline, enjoy the exotic plants of Perdicaris Park, or surf at one of the nearby beaches.
Hercules Cave
According to legend, the Greek god Hercules made this cave his home before doing his 11th labor of getting golden apples from the Hesperides Garden. The Roman’s say that instead of climbing over the mountain known as Atlas, he used his super strength to smash it. This action created the Strait of Gibraltar that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. The Greeks tell the story differently but either way you have the Strait running between the two sides of the mountain. The two sides of the split mountain (with one side being Gibraltar) are known as the Pillars of Hercules.
The natural cave was expanded by the Berber people who cut stone wheels (to make millstones) from the walls. There are two openings in the cave. The sea opening is known as “The Map of Africa.” Legend has it that the opening was created by the Phoenicians who also left cave markings in the shape of eyes.
4. Idle Away the Day on the Terrasse des Paresseaux
The Terrasse des Paresseaux (Idler’s Terrace) is a fabulous place to take a break. Of all Tangier sites, this is one of my favorites not only because of the great views, but it is also the perfect place to people watch. The site is aptly named because of the tendency for locals to hang out for hours on end.
Don’t be fooled, it may look like people are just taking a break to be lazy, but the Idler’s Terrace offers sweeping views of the port, the bay, and the Strait of Gibraltar with its varied ship traffic. On a clear day you can see across the sea to Gibraltar and Spain.
The short promenade boasts a set of ancient cannons as a symbolic warning to anyone wishing to take the city! Find. shady spot under the trees to have a rest.
5. Shop the Souks!
Tangier offers several great sites to spend your dirham. But really, souk shopping is so much more than simple retail therapy. This is a true Tangeirien experience! Learn to haggle for the best price on a brightly embroidered Moroccan Puff. Visit the carpet or perfume makers. Take time to enjoy a steaming hot cup of mint tea while you agree on the best price for an authentic Moorish keyhole door. The proprietor will happily ship it to you!
Wander through bazaars teaming with live poultry, cats, and an occasional dog. Check out the fish and meat stalls displaying the various options for your dinner. You will rarely need to question what exactly it is you are buying there.
Buy fresh herbs such as saffron, turmeric, ginger, coriander, and others. Check out the apothecary to get your authentic Moroccan Argon Oil. Your hair and skin will thank you. Also investigate the many herbal remedies to keep you healthy. There is literally a plant to treat anything and everything. And don’t forget to check out the fresh fruits. There is nothing like a tangerine in Tangier!
You will also find amazing textiles, slippers made with soft Moroccan leather, fabulous costume jewelry, amazing tile-worked pieces, and gorgeous pottery. Be sure to haggle for a tanjine so you can cook some of the amazing Moroccan cuisine once you are home.
You can’t miss the lively atmosphere but listen closely for the musicians entertaining you for the few coins you may share. If you pay attention, you might also see snake charmers and storytellers.
Grand Socco and Petit Socco
The Grand Socco (main square) is a great starting point. This café-lined square is buzzing with traffic! Fortify yourself with a cup of mint tea before you start your shopping. Gradually make your way through the old medina to the Petit Socco.
The Petit Socco is just the place to fuel any literary or artistic dreams you may hold. This is the place where the giants such as Tennessee Williams and Henri Matisse came to socialize. The city swarmed with shrewd operators, including WWII spies, who frequented the many bars and cafes of the area. In fact, the movie Casablanca is loosely based on Tangier rather than its namesake to the southeast.
BONUS: Spend Time Up On The Roof!
Start and end your day at a roof-top café. Also, live like a local and take a break there while sipping hot Moroccan mint tea. You get a unique and tranquil look at Tangier from this much-loved vantage point.
If you are fortunate, your accommodation will provide breakfast up on the roof. I recommend the La Maison Blanche. We enjoyed a sumptuous roof-top breakfast while we listened to the call for prayer at this restored 14th century riad.
Affordable Tour Options to See the Sites of Tangier
These are dozens of wonderful tours and experiences you can book for your Tangier vacation. Check out these great tours for your travel inspiration!
What Sites of Tangier Do You Most Want to See?
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