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Tangier is a vibrant Moroccan port city blending North African, Arab, Spanish and French influences. Expect bustling medinas, coastal promenades, historic kasbah, and a mix of modern and traditional life. Plan for warm days, cool nights, and a welcoming but lively atmosphere.
Visa / entry requirements
- Many nationalities (EU, US, Canada, Australia) can enter Morocco visa-free for stays typically up to 90 days; check your embassy for exact rules before travel.
- Passport should be valid for the length of stay (some airlines or transit countries may require 6 months).
- No routine vaccination certificates required for entry; bring proof for recent COVID/vaccination if needed by carriers.
- Customs: declare large sums of cash; certain foods or plant products may be restricted.
Best time to visit
- Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most pleasant temperatures (18–26°C / 65–80°F) and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June–August) is hot and humid, especially inland; Tangier’s Atlantic breeze helps but expect higher hotel prices.
- Winter is mild but can be rainy and windy; good for lower-season deals and fewer tourists.
Safety tips
- Tangier is generally safe for tourists, but use normal precautions: watch belongings in crowded medina areas, avoid poorly lit streets at night, and beware of pickpockets.
- Taxis: agree on the fare for petit taxis if the meter isn’t used (short city trips); use grands for longer trips.
- Scams: be cautious of overly persistent guides, unsolicited offers for tours, or people insisting on taking your photo for money. Politely refuse and walk away.
- Emergencies: local emergency number is 190 (police) and 150 for ambulance; carry copies of passport and emergency contacts.
Local customs & etiquette
- Dress modestly—smart casual; women can wear Western clothes, but covering shoulders and avoiding very short skirts/shorts in conservative areas is respectful.
- Greetings: a handshake is common for men; wait for a woman to extend her hand first. Polite phrases in French or basic Arabic ("Bonjour," "Salaam") are appreciated.
- Photography: always ask before photographing people, especially women. Respect private property and religious sites’ rules.
- Tipping: customary in restaurants (5–10%), for guides and drivers; small tips for porters and hotel staff are expected.
Currency & money
- Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD). Cash is widely used; cards accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and shops.
- You cannot import/export dirhams; exchange money at banks, official bureaux de change, or withdraw at ATMs.
- Small denominations are handy for taxis, tips, and market purchases. Keep some coins for small transactions.
Transportation
- Getting there: Tangier Ibn Battuta (TNG) airport has flights from Europe; high-speed train (Al Boraq) links Tangier to Casablanca and Rabat (fast, comfortable).
- Local transport: petit taxis (within city) and grands (between cities/longer trips). Agree fares or ensure the meter is used.
- Walking: Medina and Kasbah areas are best explored on foot—expect steep, narrow streets and stairs. Wear comfortable shoes.
- Car hire: possible but driving in medina and finding parking can be challenging; consider hiring a driver for day trips to Chefchaouen or Asilah.
Must-know tips & local insights
- Explore the medina early morning to avoid crowds; visit the Kasbah Museum, American Legation Museum, and the lively Grand Socco.
- Sample local cuisine: seafood by the port, tajine, couscous, mint tea and pastilla. Eat at well-reviewed places if concerned about hygiene.
- Day trips: Assilah (art town), Chefchaouen (blue city), Hercules Caves and Cap Spartel for sunsets where Atlantic meets Mediterranean currents.
- Bargaining: haggling is expected in souks; start lower than the asked price and be friendly.
- Language: Arabic (Darija) and French are widely spoken; basic French or English suffices in tourist areas.
- Connectivity: buy a local SIM (e.g., Maroc Telecom, Orange) for data; free Wi‑Fi is common in hotels and cafés.
Practical checklist
- Carry passport copy, small cash in MAD, power adapter (Type C/E), sunscreen, comfortable shoes, light layers for evenings.
- Download an offline map and have addresses in Arabic for taxi drivers.
- Learn a few phrases: "merci," "salaam," "shukran" (thank you).
Enjoy Tangier’s eclectic mix of cultures, coastal charm, and vibrant markets. With basic precautions and cultural respect, you’ll have a rewarding visit.