Three Days Where Continents Meet
Tangier's Medina, Caves, and Coastal Wonders
Trip Overview
This long weekend in Tangier captures the essence of Morocco's gateway city, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean and Europe glimpses Africa. Over three days, you'll wander the labyrinthine medina, explore legendary caves that inspired ancient myths, stand at continental crossroads, and experience the blend of Moroccan, Spanish, and international cultures that defines this unique port city. The itinerary balances cultural immersion with coastal beauty, moving from the historic kasbah to dramatic clifftop viewpoints. You'll taste authentic Moroccan cuisine, navigate bustling souks, and discover why Tangier captivated writers and artists for generations. The pace allows for both structured sightseeing and spontaneous discoveries in this city that has always existed between worlds.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
The Heart of the Medina
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina or Kasbah district (Traditional riad or guesthouse)
Staying within the old town puts you at the heart of the action and allows easy exploration on foot
Legends of the Atlantic Coast
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina or city center (Same accommodation or hotel near the corniche)
Return to your base or choose coastal accommodation for easy beach access and modern amenities
Parks, Panoramas, and Farewell
Where to Stay Tonight
Near airport or port depending on departure (Same accommodation or convenient location for departure)
Choose based on your departure point and timing for easy morning transit
Practical Information
Getting Around
Tangier's medina is best explored on foot. For Cape Spartel and beaches, hire petit taxis (blue) for short trips or grand taxis for longer journeys; always agree on prices before departure. City buses are economical but routes can be confusing for visitors. Many travelers hire a taxi with driver for half-day coastal excursions at negotiated rates of $30-50. The medina to new town is walkable in 20 minutes or a short taxi ride. Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets.
Book Ahead
Museums accept walk-ins; no advance booking needed. Consider booking accommodation ahead, especially during peak seasons. If arriving by ferry from Spain, book tickets in advance during summer.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for medina visits, sunscreen and hat, light jacket for evening breezes, camera for stunning views, small daypack, cash in dirhams for markets and taxis
Total Budget
$195-265 for three days (excluding accommodation and international transport)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in a budget guesthouse or hostel in the medina ($15-25/night), eat primarily at local cafes and street food stalls, walk when possible and use shared grand taxis, skip guided tours in favor of self-exploration, shop at local markets instead of tourist boutiques. Bring picnic lunches to parks and beaches. Total daily budget can drop to $40-55.
Luxury Upgrade
Book a five-star hotel on the bay with spa facilities, hire a private guide and driver for all excursions, dine at Tangier's finest restaurants serving contemporary Moroccan cuisine, arrange a private boat trip on the strait, stay in a restored palace riad with personalized service, include wine tastings and sunset yacht experiences. Daily budget increases to $200-350.
Family-Friendly
Focus on outdoor spaces like Rmilat Park and beaches where children can play freely. The Hercules Caves fascinate kids with mythology stories. Camel rides at Dromedary Spot are memorable for children. Choose family-run riads with courtyard play spaces. Pack snacks as Moroccan meal times run late. Shorten walking tours and add beach time. Many restaurants welcome families and can prepare simpler dishes for picky eaters.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Tangier