Café Hafa
A historic cliffside café in Tangier offering stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and traditional Moroccan mint tea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views
Café Hafa
Best Time
Golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cliffside café in Tangier offering stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and traditional Moroccan mint tea.
"Sit in Africa and look across the sea at Europe, all while sipping Moroccan tea."
💰 Cash Only Policy
Remember to bring cash! Café Hafa does not accept cards.
🍵 Mint Tea is a Must
Even if you're not a tea fan, try the mint tea with extra sugar!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mediterranean Views
Terraced seating areas
Sit on tiered terraces overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, with Africa on one side and Europe visible on the other.
Authentic Moroccan Mint Tea
Any seating area
Savor the traditional Moroccan mint tea, a staple offering that's highly recommended by visitors.
Historic Ambiance
Throughout the cafe
Experience the charm of a cafe that has retained its original 1920s decor, a true step back in time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King Here
Embrace the Views, Manage Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Cash Only Policy
Remember to bring cash! Café Hafa does not accept cards.
🍵 Mint Tea is a Must
Even if you're not a tea fan, try the mint tea with extra sugar!
🚶♀️ Explore the Terraces
Wander through the different levels for unique perspectives and photo ops.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is incredible, perfect for photos of the sea and coastline.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Cash Only Policy
Remember to bring cash! Café Hafa does not accept cards.
🍵 Mint Tea is a Must
Even if you're not a tea fan, try the mint tea with extra sugar!
🚶♀️ Explore the Terraces
Wander through the different levels for unique perspectives and photo ops.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is incredible, perfect for photos of the sea and coastline.
🤫 Seek Quiet Moments
Avoid peak times if large tour groups with loudspeakers can disrupt the vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Café Hafa is celebrated for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean and its historic, bohemian ambiance. While the traditional mint tea is a consistent hit, some visitors find the food quality to be average. The cash-only policy and potential for large, disruptive tour groups are noted drawbacks.
"Important point: Only accepts cash, no cards.
Excellent view of the Mediterranean Sea. Lovely outdoor seating areas spread out across different sections. Food is below average but the mint tea is very good. Service is ok and you can see waiters running around up and down the stairs with huge trays of mint tea.
While I was there at 5 pm, a very large group of about 60 Chinese tourists came in. Their guide or group leader kept talking to them in Chinese using a loudspeaker and ruined the entire atmosphere for everyone. They all had audio guides in their ears. So not sure why the cafe allowed such microphones/ loudspeakers."
Anju Patwardhan
"If you’re in Tangier you need to visit this place. I’m not a fan of Minty Tea, but if you do order minty tea try it with extra suger.
Other than that, sit down relax and enjoy the view. Plenty of seating area. There are other area within the Vinicius where you can walk around and get amazing views"
Shohid Ali
"This was the famous hangout spot for the Beatles! Fantastic views! If you could get past the hygienic then you'll enjoy the food there. Their chicken Shawarma was amazing. Their pita bread was insanely good. Flaky and crispy on the outside and buttery delicious on the inside paired perfectly with their special sauce. Fries were bland though. Cheap price too! I ate their twice!"
T P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Café Hafa is located on the cliffs overlooking the sea in Tangier. Many visitors reach it by taking a taxi from the city center or the Kasbah. It's also a pleasant walk from the Medina for those who enjoy exploring on foot.
While there isn't direct public transport to the café's doorstep, local buses can get you close to the general area, from where you can walk or take a short taxi ride. Taxis are a common and convenient option for tourists.
The café is built into the cliffside, so expect some stairs. The journey through the Medina can also offer charming sights before you reach the café itself.
Yes, it's a scenic walk from the Medina. It allows you to experience more of Tangier's streets and local life before reaching the café.
Parking directly at Café Hafa is limited. It's often easier to park in the city center or near the Kasbah and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the café.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Café Hafa. You simply order drinks or food from the menu.
Café Hafa is generally open throughout the day, from morning until late evening. It's advisable to check for any seasonal changes or specific closing times.
There is no strict dress code for Café Hafa. Casual attire is perfectly acceptable, as it's a relaxed spot for enjoying the views and drinks.
Reservations are typically not required or accepted at Café Hafa, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis for its many seating areas.
There is no official minimum spend, but it's customary to order at least a drink, such as the popular mint tea, when occupying a table with such a view.
🎫 ☕ Onsite Experience
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, offers spectacular views as the sun sets. Evenings are also pleasant with cooler temperatures and city lights.
The main specialty is traditional Moroccan mint tea. They also offer some snacks and light meals, though the food quality can be inconsistent according to some reviews.
Yes, on a clear day, you can see across the Strait of Gibraltar to Tarifa, Spain, from Café Hafa. It's a unique experience to be in Africa and see another continent.
While the café has many seating areas, large groups can sometimes impact the atmosphere if they use loud equipment. It's best to be aware of this possibility.
It's known for its relaxed, bohemian vibe, with stunning sea views. However, the atmosphere can be affected by large tour groups.
📸 📸 Photography
Every terrace offers a great vantage point. The higher terraces provide wider panoramic views of the sea and coastline.
Yes, photography is generally welcomed at Café Hafa, especially for capturing the beautiful views and the historic ambiance.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides the most beautiful light for photography. Sunrise can also be stunning if you're an early riser.
The iconic view across the Strait of Gibraltar to Europe is a must-capture shot. The unique tiered seating and the sea breeze also make for great candid shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary, and it's best to check local rules before flying a drone in the area. It's generally not recommended in crowded public spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's worth noting that the café can get crowded, and the steepness of the terraces might be a consideration for families with very young children or strollers. Bringing snacks from elsewhere might be a good idea if your children are picky eaters, as the food quality can be inconsistent.
💰 Budget Travelers
Since it's cash-only, ensure you have enough Moroccan Dirhams. While the food might not be the main attraction, the affordable drinks and the unforgettable scenery make it a worthwhile stop for anyone watching their expenses.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles from the various terraces. The interplay of light and shadow on the water and the coastline offers endless creative possibilities. Don't forget to capture the details of the traditional tea service and the vibrant local life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Century of History and Charm
Over the decades, Café Hafa has been a popular haunt for artists, writers, and travelers, fostering a bohemian and international atmosphere. It's said to have hosted notable figures like The Rolling Stones and writers such as Paul Bowles. This rich history contributes to its enduring appeal as a cultural icon in Tangier.
Today, it continues to be a beloved spot for both locals and tourists seeking a relaxed ambiance, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of authentic Moroccan mint tea. The experience is about soaking in the history, the views, and the slow pace of life.
The Iconic Mint Tea Experience
While the tea is a highlight, the food menu at Café Hafa can be a mixed bag. Some reviews mention that the food is below average, while others have enjoyed specific items like chicken shawarma and pita bread. It's generally advised to come for the views and the tea, and perhaps try a snack if you're feeling peckish, but manage your culinary expectations.
The service involves waiters navigating the steep terraces with large trays of tea, which is an interesting spectacle in itself. The overall experience is about savoring the moment, enjoying the sea breeze, and letting the iconic beverage enhance the panoramic views.
Capturing Tangier's Coastal Beauty
The best time for photography is undoubtedly during the golden hour, typically late afternoon, when the sun casts a warm, magical glow over the landscape. The vibrant blue of the sea, the whitewashed buildings of Tangier, and the distant European coastline create a picturesque scene.
Beyond the grand vistas, the café's historic architecture and the lively atmosphere of people enjoying their tea also provide excellent subjects for candid shots. Remember to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the unforgettable views and the timeless charm of this iconic Tangier spot.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit