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Journal
The Tangier Travel Guide
At the northern tip of Morocco, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, Tangier is a gateway between continents. A city of whitewashed medina streets, faded grandeur and an enduring artistic spirit, it offers a calmer coastal escape than the bustle of Marrakech. Photographer and founder of Pleasure of Leisure, Anna Pihan, shares her guide to the best spots to discover.
How to get there
Tangier is easily reached by air, with direct flights from major European cities. You can also arrive by ferry from Spain, with frequent crossings from Tarifa (35 mins). You can also take the train from Marrakech, crossing wild and arid landscapes if you are up for an adventure (book premium cabins to have a little more privacy). Once there, taxis are the best way to get around—opt for petit taxis within the city and grand taxis for longer distances. The medina is easily walkable.
Where to stay
Villa Mabrouka
Once the home of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, this dreamlike villa is now a boutique hotel infused with Moroccan craftsmanship, lush gardens, and Mediterranean flair of the 1940s. Laze on the bright green sun loungers by the pool and watch the sunset from their cocktail bar. This is the place to stay, book in advance.
LaDi Dar by Gavin Houghton
Located on the doorstep of the Kasbah and walking distance to the Medina, the 3 bedroom house is spread over 2 levels with a sunny rooftop terrace that overlooks the heart of Tangier. It’s in the perfect location that’s close to everything, and has all the charming details for a cosy 3 night minimum stay.
Mimi Calpe
A colonial-era villa nestled between the port and Grand Socco, with lush gardens, a hammam, and a pool. With six rooms and two suites, it's the perfect place for a quiet retreat. Take breakfast outside on the terrace and laze by the pool after shopping in the medina.
La Tangerina
Perched at the highest point of the Kasbah, La Tangerina has panoramic views over the Strait of Gibraltar from its rooftop terrace, where breakfast is also served. This boutique hotel features ten elegantly decorated rooms arranged around a central courtyard, providing a tranquil retreat within the gates of Kasbah.
Where to eat and drink
Le Saveur du Poisson
A local institution known for its no menu, set-course lunch—just whatever’s fresh that day. Expect seafood, olives, and pomegranate juice served in a laid-back space with tiled walls, ceramic pots, and eclectic nautical art.
Las Chicas
Part concept store, part café, Las Chicas serves coffee, breakfast and really good salads in a leafy courtyard setting. Shop local designs afterwards.
El Morocco Club
A classic spot for a leisurely lunch in the Kasbah under the big rubber tree, which is great for people watching. Or come in the evening and sit inside where candlelit tablets and velvet booths await for Moroccan-French cuisine.
Restaurant Hammadi
A classic choice for Moroccan dinners with live traditional music. Just a short walk from the medina, the tagine and couscous is always delicious.
Café Hafa
A local favourite located along the clifftop since 1921 — order a glass of mint tea or the special Tangier brew, and take in the sea views over the Bay of Tangier. It’s very casual, with plastic chairs and a place to mingle with young Moroccans. Simple snacks like nuts or pastries are available too. Paul Bowles, William S. Burroughs, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones – all frequented this cafe.
Villa Mabrouka Terrace Bar
Open daily from 5–9pm, sip cocktails on the rooftop beneath green-and-white striped umbrellas as seagulls soar over the sunset-lit horizon of the Strait of Gibraltar.
What to do
Explore the Medina
Lose yourself in the winding alleyways of the old town. Whitewashed walls, tiled courtyards, artisan shops, and sudden glimpses of the sea.
Kasbah
Explore the myriad of cobble-stone pathways within the Kasbah - the old city, discover little shops, quirky corners and Matisse’s mosque that appeared in many of his paintings.
Las Chicas
A concept store blending fashion, homewares, and artisanal finds. Curated with an eye for design—ceramics, baskets, linen kaftans, and Moroccan-made beauty products.
Medina Antique Shops
Wander the medina and you’ll stumble across antique stores and hidden ateliers filled with vintage Berber rugs, ceramics, hand-forged lanterns, brass trays, and embroidered textiles.
Visit the Kasbah Museum
Housed in a former sultan’s palace, the museum offers insight into Morocco’s history alongside beautiful views and peaceful courtyards.
Day Trip to Asilah
Just under an hour away by train or taxi, this quiet seaside town offers colourful murals, white-and-blue walls, and peaceful charm.
