Tangier, the bride of the north

Tangier has long been romanticized by artists, Beat poets, and writers who have arrived at its busy shores seeking adventure. Tangier is the gateway
to Africa for many travelers. Cruise 
ships often dock there on their way from the Atlantic to Mediterranean, and travelers in Europe find it easy to take a quick ferry from Spain to the port of Tangier. (More about getting to Tangier below). 

Tangier doesn't have quite the offbeat charm it did in the 1940's and 1950's when you could rub shoulders with the likes of Truman Capote, Paul Bowles and Tennessee Williams, but if you give it some time, and ignore the tourist touts, it will grow on you. Tangier is an interesting, cosmopolitan mix of African and European influences. It's a port city and port cities are always rough around the edges. Tangier is not very pleasant at night. 
As with many cities in Morocco, there's an old town (Medina) and a new town (Ville Nouvelle). 

The Medina -- Tangier's Medina (old-walled city) is a lively place, its alleyways are filled with shops, tea-houses, and brothels (it's a port city after all). Tourist trinkets are plentiful here, if this is your only stop in Morocco, buy away. But if you plan to continue traveling in Morocco, you'll find better deals elsewhere. 

The American Legation - Morocco was the first nation to recognize American independence, and the USA established a diplomatic mission in Tangier in 1821. Now a museum, the American Legation is located in the southwest corner of the medina and worth a look. The museum houses some fascinating art including a room dedicated to Paul Bowles, and works by Eugene Delacroix, Yves Saint Laurent and James McBeay.

Place de France - is the heart of ville nouvelle and the social focal point for the middle classes in Tangier. A good place to sip some tea and enjoy the sea view is the highly recommended Terrasse des Paresseux just east of the Place.
The Kasbah - The Kasbah is located high on a hill in Tangier with some good views of the ocean. The old Sultan's palace (built in the 17th Century) lies within the Kasbah's walls, is known as Dar El Makhzen and is now a museum that houses fine examples of Moroccan art. 
Grand Socco A large square at the main entrance of the medina is a busy transport hub and a good place to watch the chaos of traffic, carts and people go about their daily routines.

Beaches - the beaches closest to town are rather dirty, as is the water. Find better beaches about 10km west, out of town.

Getting to Tangier and Away

Tangier is just a short ferry ride from Spain and the gateway to the rest of Morocco whether you travel by bus or train.