Located on the northernmost tip of Morocco just 20 miles across the Straits of
Gibraltar from
Spain, Tangier is now a thriving tourist and car rental destination, mainly thanks to the low cost airlines who fly direct to the city's airport. The inner city of Tangier, particularly the old walled centre some of the alleyways can only be accessed on foot. However, should you decide to travel further afield, then you may wish to hire a car and explore a little further into the “real Morocco.”
There is so much to do in Tangier, from taking a walk along the beach, seeing the ancient sights to exploring the old walled Medina – this is at its best and busiest during the evening and night-time. If you are into markets and shopping, why not try the Casa Barata or “thieves’ market.” Hop in your hire car and a short ride out of town, you will find a market selling every conceivable item.
Driving in Tangier, like in other parts of Morocco, can be an exciting experience, allowing you to explore the region at your own pace. Here's what you need to know about driving in Tangier:
Driving in Tangier:
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Drive on the Right: Morocco, including Tangier, follows the right-hand driving system.
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Speed Limits: In cities, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h. On secondary roads, it's 90 km/h, and on motorways, it's 120 km/h.
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Traffic and Roads: Tangier is a bustling city, and during peak hours, you can expect some traffic congestion. The roads vary in condition, with most major routes being well-maintained, but smaller streets can be narrow and winding.
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Parking: If you park on the street, there might be a parking attendant or "gardien" who will expect a small fee to watch over your car.
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Navigation: It's beneficial to have a GPS or a navigation app. Google Maps or Maps.me are commonly used.
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Communication: A basic understanding of French can be valuable, as it's widely spoken and understood, especially in contexts like asking for directions or reading road signs.
Best Type of Car to Hire:
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Compact or Sedan: If you're mainly planning to explore the city and its immediate surroundings, a compact car or a standard sedan is ideal. It's easier to maneuver through tight spots and is generally more fuel-efficient.
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SUV: If you're planning to explore the mountainous regions around Tangier or venture off the main roads, an SUV might be a better choice for its ground clearance and sturdiness.
Best Places to Visit by Car:
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Cap Spartel: A beautiful spot where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, with a lighthouse that offers stunning views. It's a short drive from the city center.
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Hercules Caves: Located close to Cap Spartel, these natural caves have archaeological significance and offer a fantastic view of the sea from inside.
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Asilah: A small coastal town located about 40 km south of Tangier. It's known for its well-preserved medina and beautiful murals.
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Chefchaouen: Located around 120 km southeast of Tangier, this "Blue City" is famous for its blue-painted streets and buildings. It's a 2 to 2.5-hour drive, and the journey offers scenic views.
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Tetouan: About 60 km southeast of Tangier, Tetouan has a UNESCO-listed medina and is less touristy compared to other Moroccan cities.
When driving in Tangier and its surroundings, it's essential to remain alert and patient. Moroccan driving styles can be more aggressive compared to what some visitors might be used to. However, with a bit of caution and an understanding of local customs, driving can be a fantastic way to explore the region.