
Tangier City
Why Visit Tangier City?
Tangier City has historically been a meeting point between Africa and Europe. For decades, the city was governed by multiple European powers simultaneously, which created a unique atmosphere of freedom in an Arab setting. This blend attracted artists, musicians, spies, writers, and travelers alike. The city hosted the Rolling Stones, Henri Matisse, and countless creatives who were inspired by its eclectic streets and vibrant cultural life. Today, Tangier maintains a quiet yet intoxicating charm.
Getting to Tangier City
Visa Requirements: Belarusians and Ukrainians require a visa. Belarusians can apply via the Moroccan Embassy in Moscow. Processing takes about a week, with a cost of €30. Agencies in Minsk can assist for a small extra fee.
- By Ferry: Direct ferries operate from Tarifa, Spain. Tickets cost around €40, with the journey taking just over an hour. From the port, the medina is a 10-minute walk.
- By Plane: Ryanair and other European carriers fly to Tangier Airport, 30 minutes from the city center.
- Within Morocco, Trains and buses connect Tangier to all major cities.
Exploring Old Tangier City
The medina of Tangier represents the timeless Moroccan city:
- Narrow alleyways, bustling markets, and kasbahs.
- Street-food vendors, walking mosques, and traditional riads.
Cafes filled with mint tea and local smoke, where conversations flow in Arabic, French, Spanish, and English.
Must-Visit Places in Old Tangier
- Place du 9 Avril 1947 – the perfect starting point for exploring the medina.
- Cinema Rif – a cultural hub combining cinema, coffee, and art exhibitions.
- Kasbah – historic fortresses with walkways that inspired filmmakers.
Cafés and Music Spots – Café Baba, Hafa Café, and the legendary Rolling Stones Music School bring Tangier’s artistic history to life.
New Tangier
The modern city grows seamlessly from the old medina, blending European-style streets with Moroccan flair:
- Boulevard Mohammed V & VI – main avenues with bars, restaurants, and live music.
- Bars and Restaurants – Le Coeur de Tanger, Restaurant Bachir, and La Bodega are popular local spots.
- Cultural Experience – clubs, casinos, and business centers coexist with the historic streets.
Tangier’s Surroundings
- Hercules Caves & Cape Spartel – stunning Atlantic sunsets and dramatic coastal landscapes.
- Northern Gems – Chefchaouen, the “Blue City,” is ideal for wandering through blue-painted streets and mountain scenery.
- Other Cities – Asila, Larache, and Tetouan offer historic streets, beaches, and Andalusian architecture.
Getting Around
- Grand Taxi – shared rides in old Mercedes cars are affordable and authentic.
- Buses and Trains – convenient for longer distances and connecting to northern towns.
Tangier City Travel Tips
- Explore the medina on foot for the best experience.
- Enjoy mint tea in local cafés to feel the city’s rhythm.
- Venture beyond Tangier to experience Morocco’s northern landscapes and mountain villages.
- Weekdays are best for visiting tourist-heavy spots like Chefchaouen.
Tangier is a city that tells stories through its streets, cafes, and historic corners. From the artistic echoes of the medina to the modern avenues of the new city, Tangier offers a rare glimpse into Morocco’s past, present, and vibrant cultural life.
