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Tangier : Travel Guide

Gateway to a world of diversity and culture

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General information

Tangier is the third largest city in Morocco, located in the northern region of the country. The Pearl of the North is surrounded by mountains and is renowned for its Mediterranean charm, as well as its rich culture and history.

POPULATION

The city of Tangier has approximately 1.5 million inhabitants, making it the third most populous city in Morocco after Salé and Casablanca.

CLIMATE

Tangier enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers, and mild and humid winters. During the summers, temperatures can reach up to 35 degrees Celsius, while during the winters, temperatures can drop down to 5 degrees Celsius.    

CURRENCY

The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (DH, MAD).

LANGUAGE

The official language is Arabic, but a majority of people also speak French and Spanish, and in tourist areas, English is also spoken.

A bit of history

The history of Tangier dates back to antiquity when the region was inhabited by the Berbers. The city was successively occupied by the Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, and Byzantines. 

In the 8th century, Tangier was conquered by Muslim Arabs and became part of the Umayyad Caliphate. Over the centuries, Tangier witnessed various dynasties that ruled Morocco, including the Almoravids, Almohads, and Marinids.

In the 19th century, Tangier became a point of conflict among European powers seeking to expand their influence in North Africa. In 1923, the city of Tangier became an international zone, administered by an international commission. This period attracted diplomats, spies, writers, and artists from around the world, making Tangier a hub of culture and cosmopolitanism.

In 1956, with Morocco's independence, Tangier regained its Moroccan status and reclaimed its strategic port status. Since then, the city has experienced economic and touristic development. Tangier is now home to a significant commercial port, a thriving industrial center, and has become a popular tourist destination.

In recent decades, Tangier has witnessed significant development, supported by major infrastructure projects and investments in tourism and industry. The city has become a major economic hub, with an expanding commercial port and an industrial zone that attracts both national and international businesses.

What to visit in Tangier

If you're looking for ideas to discover the best places in Tangier, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the main attractions and activities not to be missed during your visit to this gem of North Africa.

The Médina

Castle Mendoub

The Kasbah Museum

The Beach

When to visit Tangier

The best time to visit Tangier is towards the end of spring and summer. This northern city enjoys a Mediterranean climate all year round, with average temperatures reaching around 30 degrees Celsius. There are two distinct seasons:

  • The spring season: from March to May.
  • The summer season: from June to September.

In summary, if you prefer sunny weather and want to enjoy the beach, this period is ideal for you.  

What to do around Tangier

If you're looking for cities to visit around Tangier, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the best destinations near Tangier, whether it's historic cities, spectacular natural sites, or traditional villages. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the wonders of the northern region of Morocco.

Asilah

Hercules Cave

Chefchaouene

Tetouan

Our selection of accommodations in Tangier

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Our selection of restaurants in Tangier

If you're looking for the best restaurants to discover the cuisine of Tangier, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the top establishments where you can indulge in local specialties and explore new flavors from the northern region of Morocco. 

The Fish Flavor

El Morocco Club

The must-see events in Tangier

Discover the most popular events in the city, whether they are festivals, concerts, sports competitions, or other cultural events. Don't miss these opportunities to experience the lively atmosphere of this northern gem and discover its unique traditions and way of life.

Tanjazz Festival

The Tanjazz Festival is a major music event that takes place every year in Tangier, Morocco. The event usually spans several days in September and offers a diverse program of concerts, jam sessions, workshops, and other jazz-related activities. The performances take place in various iconic venues throughout the city, such as the Palais des Institutions Italiennes, Place du Grand Socco, Théâtre Cervantès, and Palais des Mendoubes.

Popular Art Festival

The Festival des Arts Populaires, also known as the Fès Festival of World Sacred Music, is an annual cultural event. The festival typically takes place over a period of around ten days, usually in June, and offers a diverse program featuring local, regional, and international artists. The performances take place in various historical venues.

Transportation options in Tangier

Bus

Buses are also an affordable option for getting around in Tangier. There are urban buses that operate throughout the city, as well as intercity buses that connect Tangier to other cities in the region.

Taxi

Taxis are also available throughout the city, but it's important to make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid scams. Taxis can be hailed on the street or called by phone.

The cost of living in Tangier

0
The average salary in Morocco
The cost of living is very affordable. 30%

The cost of living in Tangier is generally lower compared to major cities in Europe, making it an affordable destination for travelers.

Accommodation

The cost of renting an apartment varies depending on the location and size. Generally, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can range from $20 to $80 per night.

Food

Restaurants and grocery stores in Tangier are relatively affordable. A meal at a cheap restaurant can cost around $5 to $10, while a meal at a higher-end restaurant can range from $15 to $40.

Transportation

The public transportation system in Tangier is affordable, with metro and bus fares ranging from $0.50 to $1.50. Taxis are also relatively affordable, with fares starting from $1.

Activities

Cinemas, museums, and cultural events are generally affordable in Tangier, with entry fees ranging from $2 to $30.

Practical information

It is recommended to research safe areas of the city and consult with local authorities' advice and recommendations before going on excursions or traveling outside the city. Additionally, it is advised to stay informed about the latest updates on the city's security situation by checking local and international media.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR Tangier

Travel insurance is particularly important if you plan to travel to Tangier, Morocco.

Although the city is relatively safe for tourists, it is still possible to encounter unexpected situations such as health issues, lost or stolen luggage, or transportation delays.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

MONEY / BANKS

When traveling to Tangier, it is important to consider several practical aspects to manage your money effectively. Firstly, it is recommended to use ATMs to withdraw cash in Moroccan Dirhams.

However, make sure to withdraw money from safe and well-lit locations such as shopping centers or banks. Avoid exchanging money in the streets or non-official locations as it can be risky and you may be scammed.

It is also important to travel with international credit or debit cards, such as Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank for transaction fees that may apply to using these cards abroad. It is also recommended to notify your bank of your international travel to avoid any blockage of your card due to suspicious activity.

Lastly, it is recommended to use online payment applications such as Revolut to avoid transaction fees and benefit from competitive exchange rates. Make sure to download the application and set it up before your trip to Morocco.

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