The best place to begin any visit is the Grand Socco, the large, bustling square that marks the gateway between Tangier's old and new city. From here, the narrow lanes of the medina fan out in every direction past spice stalls, local bakeries, textile shops, and hidden mosques. Unlike the overwhelming medinas of Fes or Marrakech, Tangier's is compact and easy to navigate, a brilliant introduction to Moroccan old-city life for first-time visitors.

Follow the medina uphill to reach the Petit Socco, a small, cinematic square that was once the beating heart of Tangier's International Zone era and still carries a wonderfully mysterious atmosphere.

Travel Tip: Visit in the morning when the market stalls are at their most lively and the light in the alleyways is at its best.

At the highest point of the medina, the Kasbah Museum is housed inside a former sultan's palace with sweeping views over the Strait of Gibraltar. Its collection traces Tangier's history from ancient Phoenician and Roman relics through to medieval Islamic manuscripts and traditional Moroccan crafts. The central courtyard with its carved plasterwork, ornate fountain, and peaceful garden is one of the most beautiful spaces in the city.

This is one of the finest Tangier tourist attractions for history lovers and one of the most rewarding things to see in Tangier.

Entry Fee: Approximately 20 MAD (around £1–£2) | Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

One of the most spectacular things to do in Tangier Morocco is a trip to Cap Spartel, the dramatic headland 14 kilometres west of the city where the Atlantic and Mediterranean visibly merge their colours and textures distinct even to the naked eye. The 1864 lighthouse perched above makes for a wonderful photograph, and the surrounding wooded paths offer a peaceful contrast to the city's energy.

Just minutes away are the ancient Hercules Caves, where the Atlantic crashes through dramatic natural archways worn into the rock. Legend says Hercules rested here before completing his labours.

Tangier's transformed corniche is one of the most enjoyable free things to do in Tangier. A beautifully landscaped promenade runs along the bay, lined with palm trees, open-air cafés, and views across the water to the Spanish coastline. The new port development has brought excellent seafood restaurants to the area, making an evening stroll followed by dinner by the water one of the great pleasures of any Tangier visit. On a clear day, the hills of southern Spain are clearly visible, a reminder of the city's extraordinary position at the crossroads of continents.

One of the most unique Tangier tourist attractions, and one that few visitors know about the American Legation Museum, which sits in the heart of the medina. This building was the first American diplomatic property outside of the United States, gifted by the Sultan of Morocco in 1821, and it remains US government property today. Inside, paintings, maps, letters, and photographs trace Morocco's relationship with America alongside the colourful history of Tangier's International Zone years.

This is one of the most fascinating things to see in Tangier and a slice of history you will not find anywhere else in Morocco.

Entry Fee: Free (donations welcomed) | Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Forbes Museum, housed in the spectacular Palais Mendoub on the edge of the kasbah, is one of Tangier's most entertaining things to do in Tangier, Morocco. American publishing magnate Malcolm Forbes once owned this magnificent palace, and today it displays Moroccan art, antiques, traditional costumes, and most famously over 100,000 miniature tin soldiers recreating historical battles. The beautifully maintained gardens offer lovely views over the medina and sea. Entry is free, and it is a firm family favourite.

Entry Fee: Free | Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Beyond the medina walls, Tangier's Ville Nouvelle is the elegant French-era district built during the International Zone period, lined with Art Deco buildings, wide boulevards, and smart pavement cafés. It has a distinctly European feel not unlike parts of Lisbon and makes for a very pleasant afternoon's exploration. The main artery is Boulevard Pasteur, where the legendary Café de Paris once a haunt of spies, artists, and diplomats, still serves an excellent café au lait today

Tucked just inside the medina, the Church of Saint Andrew is one of the most unusual things to see in Tangier an Anglican church built in 1894 at Queen Victoria's request, featuring a remarkable interior where Gothic architecture meets Moroccan decoration. The chancel arch is inscribed with the Lord's Prayer in Arabic. The peaceful churchyard contains the graves of several notable historical figures linked to Tangier's past. Entry is free and the garden is a wonderfully quiet spot for a rest mid-exploration.

One of the finest day trips from Tangier is to Chefchaouen the legendary Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains around two hours away. Every street and staircase in its ancient medina is painted in varying shades of blue, creating one of the most photogenic places in all of Morocco. Wander the blue-washed lanes, browse locally made woollen blankets and handicrafts, and enjoy a long lunch on a rooftop terrace overlooking the mountain valley.

Crystal Travel Tip: Book a private day trip for the most comfortable experience the drive through the Rif Mountains is itself a highlight.

Tangier's food scene reflects its unique crossroads identity traditional Moroccan cooking blended with Spanish and French influences and exceptional Atlantic seafood. Must-try experiences include

• Fresh grilled fish and seafood — caught from two seas and cooked simply with lemon and olive oil; head to the port area for the best
• Bissara — a thick, warming soup of dried broad beans drizzled with olive oil and dusted with cumin; a classic Tangier street breakfast
• Brochettes — spiced lamb or beef skewers grilled over charcoal and served with flatbread and harissa
• Moroccan mint tea — sweet, fragrant, and poured from a considerable height with great ceremony
• Café culture — Tangier's pavement cafés are among the finest in Morocco; a café au lait and a pastry on Boulevard Pasteur is an experience in itself

For the most authentic meals, seek out the small restaurants and café terraces around the Grand Socco and Petit Socco, busy, affordable, and full of character.