Tangier, Morocco

The historic heart of the city, the Medina (old town), is a must-see and just a short walk from the port. Lose yourself in its labyrinth of narrow alleyways filled with shops, cafes, and vibrant markets surrounding the central squares of Grand Socco and Petit Socco.

Perched atop the highest point of the Medina is the Kasbah of Tangier, the city's ancient fortress. Explore its courtyards and visit the museum inside to learn about the region's history while enjoying panoramic views of the Strait of Gibraltar.

A short taxi ride (about 30 minutes) from the city will take you to the Atlantic coast to visit the mythical Caves of Hercules. According to legend, this is where the Roman god rested after his labors. The cave's opening to the sea is famously shaped like the continent of Africa.

Nearby the caves is Cape Spartel, the northwesternmost point of mainland Africa. The cape features a picturesque lighthouse and offers stunning views where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea.

The charming seaside town of Asilah is a popular day trip, located about 45 kilometers south of Tangier. It's known for its serene, whitewashed medina filled with murals and art galleries, and the journey takes approximately one hour by car or train.

For a different experience, visit Tétouan, roughly 60 kilometers east of Tangier. Its well-preserved Medina of Tétouan is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing beautiful Andalusian architecture.

Though it requires a longer journey of about 2 to 2.5 hours each way, the famous blue city of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains, is a memorable excursion offered by many cruise lines. Its distinctive blue-painted streets make it one of the most picturesque locations in the region.

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Tangier Ville, which is conveniently located right next to the city's downtown area. The port has been modernized specifically to cater to cruise and ferry traffic.

The entrance to the Medina, Tangier's old walled city and main attraction, is just a 5-10 minute walk from the cruise terminal. Because of this prime location, shuttle buses are generally not necessary to reach the city center.

The port terminal itself has amenities including tourist information, some small shops, and cafes. Cruise ships typically dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not required.

The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). While some shops and taxi drivers in tourist-heavy areas may accept Euros, the exchange rate will likely not be in your favor. US Dollars are not as widely accepted.

It is best to use the local currency for most transactions. ATMs are readily available near the port and throughout the city center, offering the best exchange rates. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and upscale shops, but carrying cash is essential for market shopping and smaller purchases.

Tangier is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's important to exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas like the Medina and markets (souks).

Be wary of overly persistent unofficial guides who may approach you upon leaving the port or in the Medina. A firm but polite 'no thank you' ('la, shukran' in Arabic) is usually effective. It is best to ignore them and continue walking.

Sticking to the main tourist areas during the day is very safe. While independent exploration is common, some first-time visitors may feel more comfortable with a licensed guide or a shore excursion to navigate the winding streets of the old city and avoid potential hassles.

Tangier enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, sunny summers and mild, wet winters. The primary cruise season from spring through autumn offers very pleasant weather for exploring.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal times to visit, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (60°F to 77°F). These seasons offer a comfortable climate for walking and sightseeing.

Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C (86°F). Visitors should pack light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A light jacket is also a good idea for breezy evenings by the coast.

Many of Tangier's main attractions, like the Medina and Kasbah, are within walking distance of the cruise port. For destinations further afield, taxis are the most convenient option for tourists.

You will find two types of taxis: blue 'petit taxis' for trips within the city and larger 'grand taxis' for longer distances, such as to the Caves of Hercules. Always agree on the fare before getting in or ensure the meter is used in a petit taxi.

While local buses exist, they can be difficult for visitors to navigate. For travel to other cities like Asilah or Tetouan, the national railway service is an excellent option, with the main station being Tanger-Ville. Tickets and schedules can be found on the official ONCF website.

The best shopping is found within the winding streets of the Medina, which is essentially a large, bustling market or 'souk'. Here you'll find countless small shops selling a wide variety of traditional Moroccan goods.

Popular souvenirs include leather goods like bags and babouches (slippers), colorful ceramics, metal lanterns, argan oil products, spices, and hand-woven carpets. The area around the Grand Socco and Petit Socco is particularly dense with shops.

Haggling is an expected and integral part of the shopping experience in the souks. Prices are rarely fixed, so you should always negotiate politely. As a starting point, you can offer about half of the initial asking price and work towards a mutually agreeable amount. Modern boutiques outside the Medina will have fixed prices.