Nestled between the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the rugged Rif Mountains, Tanger is a city steeped in history, culture, and intrigue. With its strategic location at the entrance of the Strait of Gibraltar, Tanger has been a melting pot of civilizations for centuries, drawing traders, explorers, artists, and writers from around the world. From its bustling medina to its scenic beaches and cosmopolitan cafes, Tanger is a must-see city that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
1. Wander through the Medina and enjoy Moroccan architecture:
Vivid blue accents line the paths through Tanger’s most charming district, the Medina (old town). The Tanger medina is small enough to be explored in just one morning. In this maze of narrow streets and alleyways there is something to see at every corner: artisan workshops, charming cafes, and beautiful traditional Moroccan architecture. Spend some time browsing the stalls in the Grand Socco and the Petit Socco, or take a stroll through the Mendoubia Gardens.
💡Did you know that: Moroccan front doors often contain a second – smaller – door for visitors. Visitors are invited in through this door as a symbol of humility (as a visitor has to bow in order to not bump their head). This is believed to bring good luck to the household.
2. Visit a Berber carpet shop.
To get a real Moroccan haggling experience, take some time to visit a Berber carpet shop. Berber people are indigenous to North Africa, and they have a rich cultural heritage. Their carpets are known for their unique designs, which often incorporate geometric shapes and patterns. We really enjoyed seeing these beautiful handcrafted carpets up close, and learning about how they are made.
When you enter the shop you’ll likely be greeted by multiple vendors who will immediately offer you a cup of mint tea and try to sell you their carpets. This can be overwhelming and a bit intimidating if you are not used to it. Just remember that you should never feel obliged to buy something if you’re not interested or if it’s outside your budget.
You can also go with a group tour as a guide can help manage interactions with vendors, and being in a larger group can help distribute the vendors’ focus, making the situation less overwhelming for you individually.
💡Did you know that: Berber women hide secret signs into the designs of their carpets for the man that they love. These signs, known as “love tokens,” are woven into the carpet and can only be recognized by the person for whom they are intended.
3. Visit Cap Spartel
Cap Spartel is located at the most northwestern point of Africa and can be reached in less than a 30 minute drive from the center of Tanger. There is a small lighthouse at Cap Spartel that you can enter for 50 dirham (€12,50). You can go all the way to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy the stunning views of where the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea converge.
After exploring the lighthouse, you can venture further to stroll along the rocky coastline. The region around Cap Spartel features numerous walking trails with well-maintained paths that offer breathtaking views over the cliffs. If you’re up for a short hike, it’s about an hour’s walk to our next recommended spot: the Hercules Caves.
4. Visit the Caves of Hercules
If you have time, definitely visit the Caves of Hercules in Tanger. The cave itself is relatively small and can be seen in about 15 minutes. However, the view of the Atlantic Ocean through the cave’s rocky entrance is undeniably a beautiful sight, and makes for a pretty picture.
The legend of the cave also makes for an interesting story, as it is said that the cave has been used by the mythical hero Hercules as a resting place after separating the European and African continents.
5. Sample the Cuisine
Tangier offers many dining options due to its rich culinary scene influenced by Moroccan, Spanish, and Mediterranean flavors. Be sure to try traditional Moroccan dishes such as couscous, tagine, and pastilla. Also, don’t miss the local specialty, tangia, a deliciously slow-cooked lamb dish.
💡Tip: Café Hafa is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike as this iconic café has been a favorite spot for famous writers, musicians, and intellectuals, including the Rolling Stones. We recommend visiting Café Hafa for a drink with a spectacular view.
