Visiting Tangier
Among the many highlights of Morocco, Tangier is a primary draw. Perched on a hillside at the northern tip of the country, this former Phoenician port has served as a critical link between Europe and the Middle East for centuries, evolving into a major cosmopolitan hub.
Alleys, markets, and palaces
Tangier is defined by its medina, a maze of narrow, shaded alleys where you can wander for hours, led by the scents drifting from local stalls. You will inevitably find yourself at the Grand Socco, one of the main gateways to the medina. This expansive plaza hosts a lively market year-round. It is the perfect spot to pick up fresh fruit and take a break by the palm-shaded fountain.
Next, head toward the Grande Mosquée, a traditional Alaouite structure built on the site of a former Roman temple. The place de la France offers a clear vantage point over the city. Once you have navigated every corner of the medina, explore the Kasbah quarter for its traditional craft shops and bustling cafes. The palace towers over the neighborhood, its 13th-century ramparts visible from a distance. It houses the Kasbah Museum, which provides a detailed look at the country's history and Moroccan arts.
Ocean, caves, and gardens
The city's natural sites are equally impressive. Follow the coastal road toward Talâa Cherif for views of the Atlantic Ocean. The grottes d'Hercule, located 15 kilometers (about 9 miles) from the city center, are famous for their beauty. Legend has it that Hercules rested here, and those looking to follow suit can head to the municipal beach. This stretch of sand is popular with local families swimming and relaxing in the adjacent Corniche gardens.
Do not miss the parc Perdicaris, which spans 67 hectares (about 165 acres). This botanical garden features a wide range of flora, including laurels, acacias, and pines, and serves as a refuge for migratory birds. On the way to the park, you will pass the Cap Spartel lighthouse, an iconic fixture of the Tangier peninsula.
When to go
Tangier is a year-round destination thanks to its mild climate. From March through December, it is sunny with temperatures typically ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). January and February are cooler, around 15 to 16 degrees Celsius (59 to 61 degrees Fahrenheit), but the weather remains dry.
How to get there
A round-trip flight from Paris to Tangier costs about 150 euros (around $165) for a 2-hour and 35-minute non-stop trip. If you are coming from Spain, Tangier is 45 minutes by boat from Ceuta across the Strait of Gibraltar. If you are already traveling within Morocco, you can take an internal flight from Marrakech or rent a car for the 5-hour and 30-minute drive.
When I went there a few years ago, the city was dirty and poorly maintained, with quite a few construction sites that seemed abandoned. It is a shame, because there is potential with the medina, the bay, and the view of Europe to the north.