Tangier

The main entry point for ferries arriving from Spain, Tangier is a vibrant city with tremendous history: one of the oldest cities in North Africa, it has seen a number of European powers come and go. Tangier is an interesting city destination thanks to an eclectic mix of historic legacies and major improvements in infrastructure since the turn of the century.

The Grand Socco Tangier

The City

Tangier sits in a remarkable setting spread over seven hills overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar on the extreme north west tip of Morocco, which makes it an important entry point for tourists entering the country from Spain (including train and car travellers from the UK).

The history of Tangier is complex, but suffice to say that it is fascinating and is much associated with the arts. Its most cosmopolitan period; around 1952, when immigrants accounted for almost half the population, attracted famous writers such as Paul Bowles, William Burroughs, and Tennessee Williams to live here. Tangier was also a magnet for talented artists such as Henri Matisse and various celebrities.

Since Mohammed VI's rule began in 1999, the city has seen a massive facelift: the old port now only serves passengers with a marina for yachts and cruise ships, while industrial traffic uses a new commercial port outside the city, Tanger Mediterranée, and renovation of public spaces and building has taken place including a new railway station and a beach promenade. The café life of the city that made it one of the stylish resorts of the Mediterranean in the past is still evident. A guide is recommended.

Things to do or see

In the city

The principal site of interest, Dar El Makhazen, the old sultan's palace, set in lovely gardens, houses the a museum containing a significant collection of Moroccan arts and archaeological remains including some superb calligraphy, Roman mosaics and a fine collection of other craftswork.
The small, delightful medina with rambling streets, where the former home of Woolworths heiress, the legendary Barbara Sutton is located, has shed its sleazy image in recent years.
The American Legation museum, commemorating the relations between Morocco and the USA stemming from the period of the international zone in the first half of the 20^thcentury, is a beautiful building containing some fascinating memorabilia.
From the kasbah some superb views may be enjoyed, including those painted by Matisse, in whose honour a trail has been laid.
The Tanjazz festival takes place annually in June.

Outside the city

Tetouan (Berber for “open your eyes”), a bustling large town over 300,000 inhabitants with a lively souk, is one hour's drive to the south. Enjoying a spectacular position in the Rif mountains, it is best known for its largely undiscovered medina, which is a World Heritage Site. The architecture of its “new” town displays a significant Spanish influence.
Chefchaouen, a very pretty little town of about 50,000 inhabitants in a spectacular setting in the Rif mountains about 2 hours' drive south of Tangier, is a ideal stopping off point en route to Fez or Meknes.
To the west the scenic Atlantic coast offers a range of opportunities including visits to the attractive promontory of Cap Spartel, the photogenic Caves of Hercules with Neolithic remains, camel rides, the ruins of the Roman town of Cotta and a good but dangerous surf spot, all within about 10 miles.
Asilah, a delightful, peaceful coastal town with a good beach and attractive Portuguese fortifications just 50 minutes by train from Tangier.
Lixus, a short drive to the south of Asilah, is an important Roman site with a wonderful hilltop setting overlooking the estuary, saltpans and Larache.

Weather

Tangier has a Mediterranean climate: hot and sunny May to October; warm and sunny with rain at times for rest of the year. Temperatures are moderate all year, although night time temperatures in winter can be low. Midday temperatures in July and August are rather high, but the climate is generally comfortable thanks to sea breezes.