About
Tangier is a major city in northern Morocco. It is the capital of the Tangier-Tétouan-Al Hoceïma region and the administrative centre of the Tangier-Assilah prefecture.
Strategically located at the far northwest of the country, on the edge of the Strait of Gibraltar, it lies just fourteen kilometres from the Spanish coast.
With nearly 950,000 inhabitants recorded in 2014, Tangier is not only a popular tourist destination but also one of Morocco’s most dynamic economic hubs after Casablanca.
Football in Tangier
Football holds an essential place in the life of Tangier’s residents. The city’s flagship club, Ittihad Riadi de Tanger (IRT), competes in Morocco’s top division, the Botola Pro.
Their matches take place at the Grand Stade de Tanger, a modern arena inaugurated in 2011, with a capacity of over 65,000 spectators. This stadium has become one of the main venues for national football, hosting finals, international matches, and Moroccan national team games.
On match days, the passion and powerful chants of the supporters turn the stadium into a true popular celebration. Besides football, the stadium also hosts major sporting and cultural events, strengthening Tangier’s role as a leading sports city.
Getting Around Tangier
Getting around Tangier is relatively easy thanks to a variety of transport options. Small blue taxis crisscross the city, allowing quick travel from one neighbourhood to another, while larger white taxis connect the city with nearby towns and other regional cities.
The urban bus network, modernized in recent years, now covers a wide area including suburban zones. Tangier is also connected to the rest of Morocco by train: Tangier-Ville station is the terminus of the high-speed Al Boraq line, linking the Strait city to Rabat and Casablanca in a short time.
Travelers can also use the Tangier Ville port, which offers regular crossings to Spain, and the Ibn Battouta International Airport, which serves several European and African capitals. For more freedom, car rentals and an expanding network of ride-hailing services offer practical alternatives for exploring the city and its surroundings.
What to Visit in Tangier
Tangier captivates visitors with its rich heritage and diverse landscapes. The medina, with its narrow lively alleys, invites exploration of colourful souks, artisan shops, and traditional cafés. The Kasbah, perched atop the city, overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar and houses a museum that traces Morocco’s history and art.
The Corniche and beaches offer an ideal setting for seaside strolls, between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. A few kilometres from the centre, Cap Spartel and the Hercules Caves blend history, legends, and spectacular views.
Tangier also boasts a vibrant cultural life, represented by its museums and art galleries such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Lorin Gallery, reflecting the local artistic dynamism.
Finally, it is impossible to mention the city without referencing the Grand Socco and Petit Socco, iconic squares where locals and visitors meet in an authentic atmosphere that reflects the cosmopolitan spirit of the city of the strait.
