The best cities in North Morocco
The best North Morocco cities
We hear it often, those who travel to Morocco absolutely want to dive into the desert and wander the winding streets of Marrakech in search of beautiful palaces and the best souvenirs. And although Southern Morocco is an absolute must on your trip to Morocco, the diverse Northern Morocco is unfairly bypassed by many travelers.
Northern Morocco is home to a wealth of history, culture and natural beauty as well as being home to Mohammed and me. As residents of the beautiful Tangier, also called the doorway to Africa, and avid travelers through northern Morocco, we share with you our favorite cities and best tips.
Tangier
Tangier, our home base in Morocco and also one of the absolute highlights in northern Morocco, is home to a unique blend of cultures and influences from Europe, Africa and the Middle East. At the time of the Phoenicians, Tangier was already an important trading town thanks to its strategic location at the Strait of Gibraltar. The Romans, Arabs and Europeans also quickly recognized the importance of this port city.
During your visit to the city, wandering through Tangier’s old medina is an absolute must. Lively markets, colorful stalls selling spices and textiles, passionate artisans and beautiful architecture fill the streets. The iconic kasbah that towers above the medina is also well worth a visit. In addition to stunning panoramic views of the Strait of Gibraltar, you will find numerous interesting museums, including the Kasbah Museum, near the historic 17th century citadel.
Just outside the city, Cap Spartel offers a wonderful view of the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. You can often find us during the weekend at Perdicaris Park, where it is great hiking with a view of the ocean. Like so many locals, we love to head to the park packed with fresh ingredients and enjoying a BBQ in the company of the many families.
Surrounded by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Tangier is the place to eat mouthwatering seafood. Stop by Saveur de Poisson or Lubina Blanca for the best seafood experience and finish your culinary experience with a large glass of fresh mint tea at the iconic Café Hafa!
Chefchaouen
A two-hour drive from the metropolis of Tangier, you will find Morocco’s “Blue Pearl” in the middle of the enchanting Rif mountains: the blue village of Chefchaouen. The picturesque streets of the medina where the houses were given a quaint blue color look like the setting of a fairy tale. A walk through the old town where you will learn about traditional crafts, including carpet weaving, can be at least called enchanting. Climb the steps of the 18th century kasbah and enjoy the view of the city surrounded by the high peaks of the Rif Mountains.
A visit to Chefchaouen is never boring! For Mohammed and me, Chefchaouen is one of the absolute highlights of northern Morocco. Not only because of the fairy blue color of the houses, but also the endearing hospitality of the Rif people and the natural beauty just outside the city plays an important role. A visit to Chefchaouen is invariably accompanied by an overnight stay in one of the special guesthouses outside the city run by hospitable Berber families from the Rif mountains. A night at home with dear Aïcha and her husband Cherif, who trek into the mountains every morning with a whole herd of goats, is an experience that will be forever etched in your memory.
Reserve at least two nights for your visit to Chefchaouen and the surrounding mountain villages to fully absorb the authenticity of the region. If you have enough time, pay a visit to the Akchour waterfalls, which are a delight in the summer months.
Are you looking for an authentic experience and contact with the friendly Rif people? Send us an email!
Tetouan
During your North of Morocco tour , Tetouan cannot be left out of your itinerary. This city at the foot of the Rif mountains has a rich history and, thanks to the arrival of the Moors, is also home to exceptional architecture. It is no wonder that the city’s old medina is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List thanks to the mix of Islamic and Andalusian elements in the architectural style of the houses. You imagine yourself in a bygone era as you stroll through the maze of picturesque streets and admire the traditional houses.
Visiting Tetouan is a culture shock for many first-time travelers to Morocco, which is why we always recommend hiring a reliable guide for your city tour. In the central square, numerous “guides” are willing to offer their services, but beware: you will almost always encounter fake guides who will set off with you in the medina without a license. To avoid an unpleasant experience, it’s recommended to book your guide in advance!
We love to hang out on the roof terrace of restaurant/cafe El Reducto on warm spring days to enjoy a freshly squeezed fruit juice in the pleasant spring sun!
