Tangier is a cosmopolitan city, the fourth largest in Morocco. And due to its location, it is affectionately known as the Gateway to Morocco.
Learn a little more about this fascinating city:
HISTORY OF TANGIER
According to archaeological and historical records, there are indications of prehistoric occupation in Tangier, but it was truly dominated only in the 1st century BC by the Romans.
During the fourth and fifth centuries, Tangier was part of the Byzantine Empire until the Arabs arrived in the early 700s. The Portuguese, in turn, claimed the area in the late 1400s.
Spain and Portugal governed Tangier together for about 60 years, but it remained under solely Portuguese rule in the mid-1600s. However, when Catherine of Braganza (Portugal) married Charles II of England, Tangier was given to him as part of the princess’s dowry.
The British governed the city until Sultan Moulay Ismail imposed a blockade that forced the British to withdraw. Upon leaving, the British destroyed Tangier and its port.
Due to its geographical location, many European countries disputed its control.
In the 1920s, Tangier became an international zone, maintained by France, Spain, Great Britain, and Italy, until World War II.
Spain held control of Tangier until Morocco gained its independence and the city stayed with the rest of the country.
As you can see, Tangier has a marked past, known as a safe haven for international spies and a meeting point for secret agents. It was also used as a location for many spy novels and films.
Now that you have briefly learned about the history of Tangier, check out what to do when you come to visit:
VISIT THE TANGIER MEDINA
As we can see in many Moroccan cities, walking through the Medina is a requirement for a successful trip.
The Medina area is great to explore and to get up close to Moroccan customs. In the narrow streets, you will find intense flow and lots of commerce. There are shops selling everything and amazing restaurants and cafes.
And of course, you can’t miss savoring one of Morocco’s traditional teas; you will certainly love it.
VISIT THE KASBAH
The Kasbah is one of the most fascinating regions of Tangier and has great reasons for you to include it in your itinerary of things to do in Tangier.
First, because its façade is one of the most beautiful. Right at the entrance, you are faced with a kind of castle or a magnificent monument with breathtaking architecture.
Furthermore, as it is located at the highest point of Tangier, it offers the most fascinating and beautiful views of the city. From there, you can even see the Strait of Gibraltar and Spain.
And, the coolest part is that there is a beautiful palace, called the Dar El-Makhzen Palace, which belonged to the Sultan and is now one of the most incredible museums in the city, the Kasbah Museum.
With Moorish doors, this beautiful building reflects the different Mediterranean cultures through its archaeological and ethnological collections.
STROLL THROUGH THE VILLE MODERNE
Want to see something more modern? Then you have to go to the Ville Moderne.
Walk along the sidewalks and contemplate the buildings and Spanish charm of this area that has attracted many tourists, especially Boulevard Pasteur, which is one of the main streets in this region.
There you will find many incredible attractions to make your tour even more special, such as restaurants, cafes, and shops.
In addition, at the end of the street is Place de Faro, a great place where you will see several cannons and also contemplate a beautiful panoramic view of the port and the bay.
GET TO KNOW CAPE SPARTEL AND CAPE MALABATA
Cape Spartel and Cape Malabata are mandatory stops for all tourists visiting Tangier. After all, both capes are beautiful and attract attention as soon as you enter the city.
This is because these two capes are located right at the entrance of Tangier, Cape Spartel on the Atlantic Ocean side and Cape Malabata on the Mediterranean Sea, next to the Malabata castle.
At Cape Spartel, there is a beautiful lighthouse that is perfect for watching the sunset, while at Cape Malabata, there is one of the most incredible views of the Strait of Gibraltar. In other words, both capes are unmissable and deserve to be on your list of tours in Tangier!
THE CAVES OF HERCULES
According to mythology, this is where Hercules rested before starting the penultimate of his twelve labors.
The Caves of Hercules are located at Cape Spartel. They are natural limestone caves. Plan to descend and enter the various cavities, sometimes at sea level. The highlight is the main cavity with this opening onto the ocean that evokes a different design for everyone.
And, besides being beautiful with their rocks and secret passages, they offer one of the most beautiful landscapes in Tangier.
From there, it is possible to contemplate more than 40 km of beach. Furthermore, outside there are several vendors, musicians, and people dressed in typical costumes.
But, remember, as the place is touristy, prices tend to be higher. And, if you take photographs or request any service, don’t forget the tip.
SHOP AT MARKET DAY
Do you like shopping? Then you will have to go to the Market Day. Find out when the Market Day will take place and prepare your persuasion and bargaining techniques.
This is because on this incredible day, many merchants who travel kilometers and kilometers on their camels bring various products and spices to be sold in the streets of the Medina.
This is certainly a unique and unmissable tour for those traveling to Tangier.
Do you want to get to know Tangier?
Travel safely and privately! Contact us; we will be happy to answer your questions.