Things to do in Tangier for first-time visitors, from coastal views to historic sites—experience the charm of this Moroccan city.
After 10 years, I finally returned home to Morocco — and to one of my favorite cities, Tangier. Growing up, I visited Tangier every summer, and it’s still a city close to my heart. This time was extra special because I got to share it with my non-Moroccan family, including my daughter who is one-quarter Moroccan. Watching her connect with her heritage was truly magical and emotional.
That’s why I’m so excited to share with you some of the best things to do in Tangier, Morocco, especially if it’s your first time visiting! Tangier is a city that’s gradually becoming as popular as Marrakech, but nothing quite beats the charm of a coastal city. Over our 7-night stay, we packed in plenty of sightseeing, including visits to Cape Spartel, the famous Caves of Hercules, and the Kasbah Museum. We also enjoyed exploring the vibrant Medina of Tangier and relaxing on some of the beautiful beaches in Tangier like Plage Achakar and Plage Tanger.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or looking for things to do in Tangier for adults, this city offers something for everyone.
If you’re wondering what to do in Tangier Morocco, here’s your complete guide to experiencing the city’s magic!
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9 Things To Do In Tangier Morocco
1. Grand Socco And Petite Socco
I love exploring souks and markets because they offer a real taste of local culture and everyday life. Moroccan markets are some of the best in the world, and on this trip, I finally got to visit Grand Socco and Petite Socco — both are must-see spots in Tangier.
Though close to each other, Grand Socco and Petite Socco have very different vibes, and you can easily visit both in one day.
Grand Socco is a busy, lively square that connects the new city to the old Medina. It’s more of a local hub, full of cars, shops, cafés, and everyday markets. It’s not overly touristy, so you get a real feel for local life here.
On the other hand, Petite Socco is tucked inside the old Medina and has a smaller, more atmospheric feel. It’s full of cafés (perfect for sipping mint tea and people-watching), small art galleries, and artisan shops. This area is more tourist-friendly, with shops selling souvenirs, spices, leather goods, and handmade items.
Prices in Petite Socco tend to be higher than in Grand Socco, especially for souvenirs and food, so haggling is expected. Don’t be shy — walk around first, compare prices, and then return to the stall that offers you the best deal.
2. Kasbah
The Kasbah is a quiet, old part of Tangier with narrow streets and pretty buildings – very picturesque. It’s at the top of the medina and has great views of the sea.
You can walk around, take photos, and enjoy the calm atmosphere, and you’ll see a few cafes too if you want to grab something. There’s also a small museum inside a beautiful old palace if you want to learn more about Tangier’s history.
3. Bab Al Bahr
Bab Al Bahr is a stone archway in the Kasbah that opens up to stunning views of the sea. It’s a calm, peaceful spot — perfect for taking photos or just relaxing for a moment. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Spain or the Rock of Gibraltar across the water.
A great spot to visit and tick of on your things to do in Tangier whilst you’re exploring Kasbah
4. Cafe Hafa
When you’re in Kasbah, this café is a must-visit. It’s a short walk away, but definitely worth it for everything you get to see along the way. The café serves some of the most delicious Moroccan mint tea, and the view of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea is truly unforgettable. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and soak in the stunning coastal scenery.
5. Cape Spartel
Cape Spartel is a must-see spot just outside Tangier, where the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea meet. There’s a sign showing where the two seas come together, which makes a great photo stop. The views are stunning!
To enter the park, walk around, enjoy the gardens, take in the ocean views, and visit the museum, there’s a small entry fee:
- 25 dirhams if you’re Moroccan (even if you live abroad)
- 50 dirhams if you’re a non-Moroccan
Inside, you’ll find a peaceful park, a museum, and a café with seating that looks out over the sea. There are also souvenir stalls where you can shop for local gifts. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature with a view.
6. Cave Of Hercules
The Cave of Hercules is one of Tangier’s most famous sights, and it’s just a short drive from Cape Spartel, so you can easily see both on the same day. The cave is known for its unique opening that looks like the shape of Africa when viewed from inside.
It’s a cool, shady spot with ocean views, and there are small stalls and cafés nearby if you want a drink or snack.
Entrance fees:
- 30 dirhams for Moroccans (even if you live abroad)
- 80 dirhams for non-Moroccans
It’s a quick but interesting stop and perfect for photos.
7. Beaches In Tangier
Growing up, going to the beach almost every day was like a tradition for me, and I believe being at the beach is a big part of the Moroccan experience. Tangier has several beautiful beaches to explore, including Plage Achakar and Plage Bouhendia, both located near Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules. These beaches are perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening, and you can even enjoy lunch or dinner there.
Another must-visit is Tangier Plage, which is closer to the city center. It’s a popular spot with plenty of nearby restaurants and is right next to many hotels, making it an easy and convenient beach to visit. We spent a full day there — it’s a great place to have fun, create memories, and unwind.
You can also rent umbrellas and chairs at the beaches for around 30–50 dirhams for the whole day.
8. Day Trip To Assilah
A day trip to Assilah is a must when you’re in Tangier. It’s just 40-50 minutes away, making it the perfect chance to explore a different city and grab a fridge magnet — basically visiting two cities in one trip, which is pretty cool! One day is enough to see the highlights of Assilah.
When we visited, we spent the morning and afternoon wandering through the beautiful old Medina. The charming hidden homes, narrow alleyways, and countless souvenir shops made it a lovely place to explore. After that, we headed to the beach, which had great waves — perfect for relaxing and making memories (horse riding is available at the beach!). We stayed there until about 6:30 pm and really enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere.
You can also take a day trip to Chefchaouen, another beautiful city. Although we didn’t visit, it’s definitely worth considering if you have more time.
If you do visit Assilah, explore the old town Medina for souvenir shopping and strolls, then spend the rest of your day at Assilah beach. Just a heads-up — bring your own water and snacks, as there aren’t many shops nearby.
9. Marjane
I know what you’re thinking — a supermarket on a list of things to do in Tangier? But there’s something special about visiting a local supermarket in a different country, and Marjane really surprised us! It’s huge, well-organized, and honestly, way better than many supermarkets back home in the UK.
If you need to shop for essentials, want to pick up some tasty snacks, or grab treats to take home, Marjane is the perfect place. It’s also great if you need to buy food for your flight back.
I’ve attached the exact location of the Marjane we visited below — it’s a handy stop to start or end your trip in Tangier!
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