Things to Do in Tangier

About Tangier

Tangier sits where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, and writers have chased its mixed-up energy for generations. The medina tumbles down white hillsides while the call to prayer competes with French chatter from cafés and Spanish guitar from courtyards. Old Berber ways persist. In the souks, mint tea and fresh bread smell thick in tight lanes, and each turn shows another side of the city's tangled history. At Café Hafa, locals and travelers watch the sun drop into the Strait of Gibraltar—the view hasn't changed in decades. The Grand Socco still draws storytellers at dusk. This is where Africa meets Europe, where the past won't quite let go of the present.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use official petit taxis (blue with yellow stripe) for city travel; always insist the meter runs or agree on fare beforehand. For airport transfers, book CTM bus (35 MAD) or arrange hotel pickup to avoid overcharging by unofficial taxis.

Money: Withdraw dirhams from ATMs rather than exchanging cash for better rates. Carry small denominations (5-20 MAD notes) for tips and small purchases. Most restaurants and hotels accept cards, but souks are cash-only.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, especially in the medina—cover shoulders and knees. During Ramadan (dates vary yearly), eat and drink discretely during daylight hours. Always ask permission before photographing locals, and tip 10-20 MAD for posed photos.

Food Safety: Stick to busy restaurants with high turnover, especially for meat dishes. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in street vendors' drinks. Try pastries from established patisseries and tagines from hotel restaurants for your first few meals.

When to Visit

Tangier enjoys a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasonal characteristics. Spring (March-May) offers ideal weather with temperatures ranging 18-24°C, minimal rainfall (20-40mm monthly), and blooming landscapes. This peak season sees accommodation prices 40-60% higher than off-season rates. Summer (June-August) brings warm, dry weather (22-28°C) perfect for beach activities, though August can feel crowded with European vacationers. The Tanjazz Festival enlivens September with international performances. Autumn (September-November) provides excellent value with comfortable temperatures (20-25°C), decreasing crowds, and 30% lower prices after mid-September. Winter (December-February) sees cooler weather (12-18°C) and higher rainfall (80-100mm monthly), but offers the most authentic local experience and lowest prices (50-60% off peak rates). The Mawazine Music Festival typically occurs in late spring. Budget travelers should target January-February or November-December, while culture ensoiasts will appreciate the authentic atmosphere during Ramadan (dates vary). Families prefer April-May or September-October for comfortable weather and moderate pricing. Beach lovers should visit June-September, though expect premium accommodation rates during July-August.