With its position on the iconic Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is a city that sits at the crossroads of Africa and Europe. Given this fact, it is no surprise that the region is known for its mix of cultural influences. This can be seen in the city’s various areas when you travel to Tangier. From the historic Medina district to the Ville Nouvelle, it is a vibrant city with no shortage of things to see and do. To enjoy a complete trip to this popular Moroccan destination, it is essential to know the keys to planning and deciding how many days to dedicate to a trip to Tangier.
Though the exact date is not known, historians believe that Tangier was founded as a Phoenician colony sometime between the 10th and 8th centuries BCE. The subsequent millennia would see the city come under the control of the Carthaginians, Mauretanians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Umayyads and the Caliphate of Cordoba. The legacy of these civilizations can be seen in the Tangier of today. It is particularly evident in the old walled city known as the Medina. Notable historic sites in the city include the Tomb of Ibn Battuta, the Gran Mezquita de Tanger and the Cape Spartel Lighthouse.
The cuisine of Tangier is a major factor that draws visitors to the region each year. Its culinary scene is the result of centuries of tradition and a fusion of many influences. Dishes that you must try while on a holiday in the area include couscous, chicken with almonds, tajine (a dish named after the earthenware pot it is cooked in), bissara (made from pureed fava beans with olive oil, garlic and spices), zaalouk (a cooked salad with tomatoes and eggplant), kefta (skewers, patties or meatballs made from ground meat and spices) and hummus. Restaurants like Hammadi, El Tangerino, Le Saveur du Poisson and Jardin L’Ocean are among the most highly-recommended in the city.
Whether you are looking for a shopping centre, a souk or a street market, there are diverse options in Tangier. A look at the map of Tangier reveals two main souks. The Grand Socco separates the old and new parts of town, while the Petit Socco is located in the Medina. These shopping bazaars are lined with unique shops and small cafés. There are also several large shopping centres in the city where you will find top brands along with an array of restaurants and cinemas. Popular options include the Tanger City Mall, the Socco Alto and the Ibn Battuta Mall.
Best time to travel
The good news for travellers wondering when to visit Tangier is the fact that the city’s warm climate makes it an ideal destination any time of year. With that said, it is worth taking a look at what you can expect from each season to give you a better idea of the best month to visit Tangier for your specific liking.
March – June
Spring is one of the most popular seasons to visit Tangier. It is the time of year when tourism starts to pick up, but crowds are still fewer than they are during the peak of summer. Temperatures are also less intense than they are in June, July and August.
Weather
The average temperature in Tangier during the spring can range from 10°C (50°F) to 23°C (73°F), making visits to its different outdoor areas or a nearby excursion enjoyable and comfortable. You can also expect regular rainfall during the season so it is always advisable to be prepared.
Events & Parties
Tangier plays host many festivals, events and parties during the spring. The Mille Maroc Classic Rally is one of the most popular. It is a classic car rally that starts off in Tangier in May and then heads out to the towns of the Moroccan Rif.
Price evolution
Spring is generally one of the most sought-after seasons of the year to visit Morocco and the Tangier region is no exception. As travellers from around the world begin to arrive on holiday, the price of accommodation and other key services increases.
June – September
Summer represents the peak of the tourism season in the Tangier region. Large numbers of tourists arrive to join the locals on the area’s iconic beaches. It is also the time of year when the largest number of festivals and events are on. It’s best to book accommodation in advance during this time.
Weather
The weather in Tangier during the summer is notably hot and dry. The temperature can hit highs of up to 41°C (106°F), but the numerous beaches of endless fine white sand will make you enjoy the temperatures without the usual tourist crowds found in other coastal destinations.
Events & Parties
The Youmein Festival annually brings together artists developing new works around a common motif. This event offers contemporary artists the space to develop and present their art over the course of 48 hours. It is one of the region’s major events and takes place at the end of July.
Price evolution
As the peak season for tourism in the Tangier region, summer is also the most expensive time of year as hospitality providers and other businesses boost prices with the increased demand for their services.
September – December
Autumn is favoured by many who travel to Tangier because the crowds are smaller and the heat is less intense. At the same time, there is still plenty to see and do in the city during the season.
Weather
The weather in Tangier during the autumn is still relatively warm, and temperatures can get as high as 30°C (86°F). It is also the time of year when the amount of precipitation begins to increase in this coastal region of Morocco.
Events & Parties
TanJAZZ is an annual celebration of jazz music that includes street performances and concerts held in various venues around the city. It is usually held in late September.
Price evolution
Autumn is one of the most cost-effective times to travel to Tangier. The smaller crowds of tourists mean lower prices for accommodation and other key amenities.
December – March
Given its off-season status, winter is favoured by travellers to Tangier that prefer fewer crowds and lower temperatures. It is also the most economical time of the year to visit the city.
Weather
Though winter is the coolest time of the year in the Tangier region, temperatures can still get up to 24°C (75°F).
Events & Parties
Though things tend to slow down in Tangier during the winter, there are still some great events to look forward to. New Year’s Eve is the biggest celebration that takes place during the season.
Price evolution
Low prices for accommodation and services make the winter months the perfect time for budget travel to the Tangier region of Morocco.
How to get from the airport
Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport is the region’s major arrival airport. It is located 14 kilometres (9 miles) from the city centre. There are several ways to get to the heart of Tangier after you land. They include car hire, taxi and also a bus service.