In May we took a trip to magical Morocco and the northern city of Tanger was our first stop. We only had one day to spend here which initially I thought wouldn’t be possible but it turned out to be just right.
So I thought why not share how we made the most of just having one day in Tanger.
We stayed at the Hilton which was a good location. This is because we wanted to be near the train station, so we could leave our luggage there after checking out in the morning and collect it later on in the evening before our train.
First question to address; do you need book tours? Get a tour guide? Personally, I don’t book tours with tour companies or guides as I feel you end up restricting yourself. My advice is do your research before going on holiday and do all at your own pace.
For Tanger, you definitely need a taxi as everything is not walking distance. We ended up with a lovely taxi driver who took us everywhere.
Viewpoint
This viewpoint is not be missed on your way to Cap Spartel, spectacular views and so refreshing!
CAP SPARTEL
Sitting 1000 feet above sea level, you will find Cap Spartel, at the border of Africa and Europe, where the atlantic meets the mediterranean. Cap Spartel consists of the popular lighthouse which was built well over a 100 years ago. Now, you’re able to go up it as well as explore the museum downstairs. There are also gardens to explore as well as a cafe too.
Is it worth visiting? Yes! It does happen to be one of main attractions in Tanger and is something not to be missed.
HERCULES CAVES
Just outside of Tangier, right by the coast you’ll find the the Hercules Caves. Myths describe that this is where Hercules use to come and rest. Honestly, whether you believe in these mythologies or not, these caves are stunning and not to be missed.
Especially on a hot day, it’s a perfect place to cool down!
We absolutely loved exploring the caves and surprisingly Miss A too and wasn’t scared of the bats either. There’s a crack in the stones the shape of the African continent from where you can see out to the ocean a an incredible sight!
Just outside the caves is a grotto which includes artefacts and a shop to explore!
PALAIS ZAHIA
Whilst exploring the old town of Tangier in search for something to eat we came across this stunning restaurant. Usually we pre plan where to eat but l’m so glad we hadn’t this day because each corner of this Riad screamed beauty!
Miss A and I tried a Chicken Bastilla for the first time whilst everyone else had a Chicken CousCous dish.
If you visit Tangier definitely check this place out, it’s near the old Grand Mosque.
Even better, you can book rooms to stay here too.
THE KASBAH MUSEUM
Immerse yourself in the Moroccan architecture and go through Tangier’s history through arts and crafts. The museum is in the former Palace and has so much to offer as well as being accessible too. I have to comment on the staff, they were so friendly, not only guiding us but offering to take our pictures and showing us which angles would be great!
The museum itself is located at the highest point of the city. So don’t forget to walk through the Bab Al Bahr gate after your
visit to get the most stunning views of Tangier.
MASJID LALLA ABOSH
Morocco is filled with so many beautiful Mosques as is Tanger and this one does not miss the eye as it’s on the main road near the Port.
The perfect place to get some peace and tranquility after a long day. And the bonus part is that just around the corner, part of the Mosque building, there’s a lovely cafe where you can indulge in food and drink.
We treated Miss A to ice cream and myself to Moroccan tea.
BEACH FRONT
The last thing we did in Tanger before our train to the next stop was spending time at the beach where Miss A spied horses and had a little ride and was braver than her mummy of course.
So that’s a round up of what we got up to. Of course you can go exploring further but we covered pretty much all of the tourist attractions. There’s also the tomb and museum of Ibn Battuta. Our train was at 5pm if it were later on in the evening we could’ve fit in a lot more. I would’ve loved another day so I could find some hidden gems and explore more like a local than a tourist but I guess you always have to leave an excuse to go back!
Have you been to Tanger?
It sounds like you had a wonderful time in Tanger, and you did quite a lot in one day! Also, I love the photos! I haven’t been to Tanger or Morocco for that matter, but I would love to visit one day!
It seems you enjoyed your 1 day tangier itinerary by visiting the most northern part of Africa cap spartel where the Atlantic ocean and Mediterranean meet off .and the legendary Hercules ‘s caves but between the tow stop I add that there is a stop for a camel ride on the beach for whom are interested because is one of the highlight of the panoramic tour .