48 Hours in Tangier
Tangier’s allure is a balance between its rich history and the feeling of something undiscovered just around the corner.
Background
There is something unmistakable about Tangier, a city found at the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, where Africa gazes across to Europe. Few cities in the world have witnessed such a convergence of cultures, histories, and influences. Tangier has long been a haven for artists, writers, and thinkers who are drawn to its elusive charm, but it’s the people that truly embody the spirit of the city. With a quiet pride in their heritage, the locals exude a unique cosmopolitan openness, shaped by generations of interactions with travelers from all over the world. They shift effortlessly between languages—Arabic, French, Spanish, and English—making them as versatile and multifaceted as Tangier itself, a city whose allure is a balance between its rich history and the ever-present feeling of something undiscovered just around the corner.
Friday
8:00 Have some mint tea by the sea
Begin your day at the iconic Café Hafa, a favourite haunt of everyone from Paul Bowles to The Rolling Stones. Resting on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean, this café has been serving up mint tea and breathtaking views since 1921. The ambiance is laid-back and nostalgic, offering a perfect introduction to the city's Bohemian spirit. Take a moment to breathe in the salty air and imagine the layers of history unfolding around you.
9:00 Dive into the historic Medina
Just a short walk away is the labyrinthine Medina of Tangier, where narrow alleyways are packed with bustling souks, traditional riads, and hidden treasures. Begin your exploration at the Grand Socco, a lively square that serves as a gateway to the old city. From here, lose yourself in the winding streets that lead to the Petit Socco, a smaller square steeped in history. Along the way, you’ll encounter merchants selling everything from handmade leather goods to intricate textiles—perfect for picking up a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
12:00 Savour a Moroccan tagine
Head to Restaurant Al Maimouni in the heart of the Medina for a traditional Moroccan lunch. Their slow-cooked tagines—rich with flavours of saffron, preserved lemon, and olives—are a must-try. You can opt for chicken, lamb, or a vegetarian option. In all cases, this is a perfect place to taste the many spices that tell the story of Moroccan cuisine. Pair your meal with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and prepare to be transported.
14:00 Discover the Kasbah Museum
Resting atop the Medina is the historic Kasbah Museum, housed in the former Sultan’s palace, Dar el Makhzen. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region, with artefacts dating back to Phoenician and Roman times. The intricately tiled courtyards, beautiful architecture, and exhibits of Moroccan art and archaeology provide a quiet and reflective break from the city’s more chaotic areas.
16:00 Walk along the Corniche
Stroll along the Corniche, a promenade stretching along the coastline of Tangier, where the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea meet. This is the perfect time of day to soak in the coastal beauty and watch the changing light cast golden hues over the water. As you walk, you’ll see locals out for their evening stroll, vendors selling roasted nuts, and artists painting the sea.
19:00 Dine with views of the city
For dinner, head to El Morocco Club, located near the Kasbah. This chic restaurant serves a fusion of Moroccan and international cuisine in an elegant setting. Choose a table on the terrace to enjoy panoramic views of the city as you dine on fresh seafood or a Moroccan-inspired dish like lamb mechoui.
22:00 Unwind with live jazz music
End your evening at Tangerinn, a legendary bar once frequented by Beat Generation writers like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. The cosy atmosphere and live jazz make it an ideal spot to wind down after a long day of exploring. Order a drink, settle into the eclectic surroundings, and reflect on the layers of history and culture that make Tangier such a compelling destination.
Saturday
8:00 Breakfast with a view of the Strait
Start your second day at Le Mirage, a clifftop hotel and restaurant with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast of fresh pastries, fruit, and coffee while gazing out at the distant horizon. The ocean here is vast, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar. It’s a quiet, peaceful moment before diving back into the city.
9:00 Visit the Cave of Hercules
Just a short drive from Le Mirage is one of Tangier’s most famous landmarks—the Cave of Hercules. According to legend, the Greek hero Hercules rested here after completing his twelve labours. The cave, with its opening shaped like the map of Africa, provides incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks makes this stop a refreshing and mystical experience.
11:00 Discover the American Legation Museum
Back in the city, pay a visit to the American Legation Museum, the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located outside of the country. The museum is a testament to the long-standing diplomatic ties between Morocco and the U.S., dating back to the 18th century. Wander through rooms filled with art, historical documents, and memorabilia, and take in the museum’s unique blend of Moroccan and American influences.
13:00 Lunch at a rooftop café
For lunch, head to La Terrasse des Epices, located near the Grand Socco. This rooftop café offers stunning views of the Medina below while serving up fresh salads, grilled meats, and Moroccan specialties. The relaxed vibe and panoramic vistas make it a great spot to recharge before continuing your exploration.
15:00 Take a trip to Achakkar Beach
No visit to Tangier is complete without a trip to the beach. A short drive away from the bustling streets of the city, Achakkar Beach is a tranquil escape with its wide expanse of golden sands and the wild waves of the Atlantic Ocean. This spot is where the natural beauty of Morocco truly shines, framed by rocky cliffs and sand dunes that create a sense of seclusion and serenity. Whether you spend the afternoon lounging on the sands or exploring the rugged surroundings, Achakkar Beach provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful pause in your Tangier adventure.
17:00 Explore the Grand Malabata Lighthouse
For a scenic adventure, take a taxi or drive to the Grand Malabata Lighthouse, located on the eastern outskirts of the city. The lighthouse sits atop cliffs overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, with breathtaking views of the meeting point between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This is a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in the vastness of the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the southern coast of Spain.
19:00 Indulge in a Moroccan feast
For dinner, visit Restaurant Hammadi, an atmospheric spot inside a traditional riad in the Medina. The restaurant serves classic Moroccan dishes such as couscous, pastilla (a savoury-sweet pastry), and harira soup. The décor is authentic, with intricate tilework and low, cushioned seating that adds to the immersive dining experience. While you eat, enjoy live Moroccan music performed by local musicians.
22:00 Rooftop nightcap with views of the Medina
End your day at Bar Caid’s rooftop terrace, one of the city’s hidden gems. Overlooking the twinkling lights of Tangier’s Medina, the terrace offers a serene setting for a final drink under the stars. Sip on a cocktail or a glass of Moroccan wine as the cool night breeze sets in, and reflect on the adventures of the day. The views here, especially at night, are truly magical, making it the perfect way to close your time in Tangier.
Verdict
Tangier is where Europe and Africa meet, where the Atlantic rushes into the Mediterranean, and where the past and present intermingle in an endless, hypnotic dance. Two days in this city give you a glimpse into its eclectic soul—a place that has drawn artists, writers, and dreamers for generations, each leaving with a sense of its mystery and promise. There’s a certain quiet in Tangier, an introspection that invites you not to simply observe but to feel the spirit of the city, one that is all at once restless and grounded.
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