What is there to see and do in Tangier?
Are you preparing a visit to Tangier and looking for the must-see places? The city offers a particularly rich mix of medina, heritage, museums, markets, beaches, historic cafés and coastal landscapes.
Here are the main sites to include in your itinerary. For an overview of the destination, also see our complete guide to Tangier.
1. The Kasbah
Start your visit with the Kasbah. Located in the upper part of the medina, it lets you walk the historic lanes and observe traditional architecture. It is also one of the best areas to understand the history of Tangier.
→ Kasbah of Tangier and Kasbah Museum page
2. The Kasbah Museum
Housed in the former sultan's palace, the museum lets you discover various collections related to the history and arts of Morocco. For visitors interested in heritage, this visit is a perfect complement to a walk through the Kasbah.
→ Practical information on the Kasbah Museum
3. The medina
The Tangier medina is a visit in itself. Do not simply look for one specific monument: the interest also lies in walking the lanes, discovering the shops, observing the architecture and taking the time to stop in the small squares.
4. The Grand Socco
The Grand Socco is one of the main crossing points between the modern city and the medina. It is a good starting point for a walk in the historic centre.
5. The Petit Socco
Smaller and more intimate, the Petit Socco recalls the historic importance of Tangier as a commercial and international city. It is easy to include in a walking visit of the medina.
6. The American Legation
The American Legation of Tangier has a special place in the city's international history. It bears witness to the long-standing relations between Morocco and the United States and today houses a museum and a cultural centre.
→ Discover the American Legation
7. The Mendoubia gardens
Close to the Grand Socco, the Mendoubia gardens offer a calmer pause in the middle of the city. They are easy to include in a walk between the Grand Socco and the medina.
8. The Cervantes Theatre
The Cervantes Theatre bears witness to the importance of the Spanish cultural presence in the history of Tangier. Even when it is not possible to visit all its spaces, its architecture deserves a stop during a walk in the modern city.
9. Café Hafa
To enjoy a panorama of the strait, Café Hafa remains an emblematic address. It is especially pleasant to include it in a walk on the heights of Tangier.
10. The corniche and the beach
The corniche shows the more modern face of Tangier. Restaurants, cafés, hotels and the seafront promenade surround the main beach, which is easily accessible from the city: it lets you combine cultural visits and relaxation.
11. Cape Spartel
Cape Spartel is one of the main excursions from Tangier. The lighthouse, the cliffs and the views over the Atlantic contrast with the medina.
12. The Caves of Hercules
The Caves of Hercules are usually combined with Cape Spartel. The natural site lets you leave the city centre and discover the Atlantic coastline.
13. Rmilate forest and Perdicaris
For travellers who want to walk in a more natural setting, the Rmilate forest offers walking opportunities with views over the coast. The site is also mentioned by official tourism sources among the natural areas around Tangier. To learn more, see the page on the Perdicaris Palace and Rmilat park.
14. Cape Malabata
East of the city, Cape Malabata lets you discover the Mediterranean side of the coast. A day or half a day can be devoted to this part of the coastline.
15. The souks and crafts
The medina is also the ideal place to discover crafts. Textiles, leather, decorative objects and traditional products let you bring back a souvenir of northern Morocco.
Which experiences should you book in Tangier?
Beyond the monuments, several experiences can complete a stay:
- guided visit of the medina;
- cultural visit of the Kasbah;
- excursion to Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules;
- food discovery;
- private excursion around Tangier;
- water activities;
- excursions to nearby towns, such as Chefchaouen.
→ Explore Tangier, Cape Spartel and the caves with a camel ride
→ Private day visit of Tangier
Two-day itinerary example
Day 1
Kasbah → Kasbah Museum → medina → Petit Socco → Grand Socco → American Legation → Café Hafa.Day 2
Cape Spartel → Caves of Hercules → Atlantic coast → return along the corniche.
This programme can of course be adapted to your arrival and departure times. To organise your trip, read our guide How to get to Tangier, and for the day 2 excursion: Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules.
