Tangier - Morocco

Grand taxis: In Tangier you have two different type of taxis. The grand and the petit taxi. The grand taxi you will recognise because they are usually beige Mercedes sedans. These are the taxis that can take you for a tour around the area. Make sure to negotiate before you step in. Petit taxis: The smaller (and cheaper) taxis you will recognise by the blue color like you see on this picture. Keep in mind these taxis are not allowed to leave the city. When you want to take a ride within the city this taxi is perfect, but when you want to take a tour to get to other cities you will need to take a grand taxi.

When you leave the port you can see the Medina right in front of you. If you dock at the normal spot you take a left to find the entrance to the Medina from where you can also take this picture. At the entrance of the Medina you will find information signs like this. Why not spend a moment or 2 looking at it to decipher the Medina. Remember: up is the the Kasbak, down is the the exit.

In Morocco when talking about the Medina you are talking about the old town. In this case the Medina dates back from the 14th century that is still in very good condition. This is without doubt the most fascinating part of the city. It is overflowing with food stalls and vendors. They sell anything from spices, textiles, flowers to souvenirs. The Medina is quite big and it is easy to get lost in for the fact that it is one gigantic maze. Lots of locals are willing to tour you around the Medina. Feel free to say no.

Visit the city gardens Jardins de la Mendoubia north of the Grand Socco Square. Famous for its 800 year dragon tree and large marble fountain.

Petit Socco or “Little square” is in the middle of the Medina. It was one one of the greatest souks in all of Morocco. People would come here from miles around to buy food an clothes. In the 19th century the area grew wealthier and in the beginning of the 20th century many prominent men would come here to catch up on their gossip. Ville Nouveau is the part of town that nowadays own that position, but Petit Socco is still a nice square to hang around for a cup of tea or coffee and to befriend a stranger or two.

Step in to get a feel for the local fish specialties and local business. We can’t guarantee anything about the smell, but it for sure is a local experience.

The heart and soul of the city. It separates the new from the old town. You’ll find that there are a lot of things happening on this square. It is a great square for people watching.

Next to the Kasbah at the highest point of the Medina you will find this beautiful museum. You will find a collection of art form all over Morocco here. It displays carpets, silks from Fez, manuscripts and much more. The former kitchen is occupied by the Museum of Antiquities where you will find a Carthaginian tomb, finding from ancient Roman sites and much more.

The Kasbah is the old fortress and citadel that needed to protect the Medina. It is build on the highest point in Tangier. From here you can excellent views over the coast line. The history behind this building is also fascinating. The road to the Kasbah: When you are exploring the Medina you will come across the most scenic and unusual streets. It is quite hard to find your way up the Kasbah, but when you see this gate you know you are walking in the right direction. Always remember: The Kasbah is up, the port is down. From the Kasbah (the highest point of the Medina) you will also find beautiful panoramic views over the coastline. You can also see your ship in port from here.

The tangier cruise dock is located at the port of Tangier, near the ferry docks. From here it is an easy walk to the city center. Read our full Tangier cruise port guide for all the information about its location and transportation options.