As always, when getting ready to depart a location, I like to create one of these posts to pass along ideas to future travellers. This has been a short excursion for me, but having spent only a few days here, I have some ideas for you. Here are 5 free things to do in Tangier Morocco that you may find interesting.
9 April 1947 Square
Besides the most amazing Medina and Kasbah that I have already covered, the 9 April 1947 Square is of significant importance. This is where the current king’s grandfather, declared Moroccan independence and unification on that date.
Today this area has been transformed into a traffic circle with a large marble fountain at the centre. Locals and visitors come to take a seat, people watch, enjoy the buskers and absorb the vibes of the city. Look one way and you are peering into the ancient Medina, look the other and it’s the new city waiting to be discovered.
Municipal Beach
I was very excited to explore the beach here in Tangier. There is a large and sandy Municipal Beach that spans the coastal area in front of the new city. An easy stroll from Old Town, and you will find yourself on a huge expanse of sand.
While the views are beautiful, the beach does have quite a bit of trash. Females should not come down here alone, at any time of day, I’ll explain further in a safety post. However, for couples and families, this can be a peaceful respite from the noises and chaos that is in the city. And the perfect spot to kick around a ball or play frisbee.
Walking the Walls
Another area to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Medina, is to walk outside the ancient walls of the city. Head down towards the port and veer left. Here visitors will find a very pretty trail system that runs along the gentle hillside.
Views of the vast Atlantic Ocean to your right and massive stone walls on your left. You will pass by the castle and further on see the magnificent walls of the ancient Kasbah. This is a beautiful walk, and goes for a long while, a perfect place to come for fresh air, views and quiet respite.
Squares
There are two that I want to point out and they are in similar locations. The first, Place Bab el Marsa, is the very large plaza directly in front of the port. Here find various avenues to take you to other locations or simply walk around and watch the local children playing soccer.
Look up and see the historical Hotel Continental towering above you. Build in 1870, it is one of the oldest hotels in the city and has had the honour of some esteemed guests such as Winston Churchill. In another direction see the stone steps that will carry you up to one of the main entrances into the Medina, the old city of Tangier.
Turn right around and you are looking at the beautiful mosque. With its soaring minaret touching the sky, it makes a pretty picture with the azure waters of the Atlantic as its backdrop.
The second square, Terrasse Borj Al-Hajoui, is just inside the Medina. In fact, from one end, visitors can have a bird’s eye view of the first large plaza. This second one is located in front of the Grand Mosque. It includes a beautiful carved wooden pagoda, and multiple layers full of old cannons and shops to peruse. The views from here are gorgeous and it is always busy with people. See the children with their pet turtles here too, a unique feature in Tangier.
Esplanade & Marina
Escaping the old parts of the city now, visitors can stroll into the new city. Down streets and towards the marina that might just have a huge cruise ship in port. To watch the boats bobbing on the water here is tranquil and picturesque.
Head further along, and you will find your self on a wide and modern esplanade that spans the length of the harbour front. Here walk in peace under the African sun, and marvel at the ocean views before you.
Tangier has so much to offer its visitors. From the historical areas of the Medina and Kasbah to the new city and beyond. Walking everywhere will provide you with a way to see it all. Discover beautiful old churches, the Jewish cemetery and so much more. Tangier holds a wealth of gems just waiting to be explored.
