Tangier Old Port
Tangier Old Port: A vibrant gateway connecting Morocco to Spain, offering ferry services, scenic views, and a bustling maritime atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoids unnecessary waiting time
Tangier Old Port
Best Time
Avoids unnecessary waiting time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tangier Old Port: A vibrant gateway connecting Morocco to Spain, offering ferry services, scenic views, and a bustling maritime atmosphere.
"Proud to see such high standards at our Tangier City Port! The team’s kindness and professionalism were impressive."
🎯 Ferry Boarding Tips
Arrive 40-60 min before departure. Get paper boarding passes at the AML kiosk. :ticket:
💰 Cash for Cafes
Bring Euros for onboard cafes. Some may not be open early. :euro:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ferry to Spain
Tangier Old Port
Catch a ferry to Tarifa, Spain, experiencing the Strait of Gibraltar crossing. A quick and scenic journey.
Port Views at Sunset
Playa next to the port
Witness stunning pink sunsets over the Medina walls and the Moroccan flag by the port.
Casbah Views
Casbah
Enjoy a great view of the Tangier port from the historic Casbah.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Tangier Old Port
Port Noise & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ferry Boarding Tips
Arrive 40-60 min before departure. Get paper boarding passes at the AML kiosk. :ticket:
💰 Cash for Cafes
Bring Euros for onboard cafes. Some may not be open early. :euro:
🎧 Noise Awareness
The vehicle scanner can be loud. Consider earplugs if sensitive. :speaker:
📸 Sunset Photography
Capture beautiful sunset views over the port and Medina walls. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ferry Boarding Tips
Arrive 40-60 min before departure. Get paper boarding passes at the AML kiosk. :ticket:
💰 Cash for Cafes
Bring Euros for onboard cafes. Some may not be open early. :euro:
🎧 Noise Awareness
The vehicle scanner can be loud. Consider earplugs if sensitive. :speaker:
📸 Sunset Photography
Capture beautiful sunset views over the port and Medina walls. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Tangier Old Port for its organization, helpful staff, and cleanliness, especially regarding ferry operations. The port is seen as a well-run hub with convenient access to restaurants and boat trips. However, some note excessive noise from the vehicle scanner, which can be disruptive.
"Every step, from arrival to boarding, was smooth and seamless. I was genuinely impressed by the team’s kindness and professionalism. Proud to see such high standards at our Tangier City Port! 🇲🇦👏"
Mariam H'midou
"Really nice place. Good organized. Workers are helpful. Clean"
Adam Ginalski
"The vehicle scanner generates excessive noise, exceeding the permitted decibel levels. As a safety officer, I immediately notice when the decibel limit is surpassed. My recommendation is to either relocate the area where people are required to stand or install a noise barrier to reduce the exposure."
Mohammed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tangier Old Port is conveniently located near the ferry terminal. If you're arriving by ferry from Tarifa, you can often walk to the port area, especially if you have luggage. Some travelers have found it feasible to walk from the Tanger Ville ferry station to the train station, suggesting it's a manageable distance with stops for lunch.
Generally, the areas around the Tangier Old Port are considered safe for travelers. However, as with any busy port area, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
From the Tangier Old Port, you can easily catch ferries to Spain. Taxis are also readily available to take you to other parts of the city, including the train station or your accommodation.
Yes, it is generally considered feasible to walk from the ferry station to the train station in Tangier, especially if you plan to stop for lunch along the way. Be prepared for a walk with luggage.
The Tangier Old Port is quite central and is a key part of the city's historical and modern landscape. It's easily accessible from the medina and other central areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's recommended to buy ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season. You can purchase them online and receive a QR code, but you'll still need to exchange this for paper boarding passes at the AML kiosk at the port.
For AML ferries, you don't need to arrive 2 hours in advance as some websites suggest. Arriving 40-60 minutes before departure is usually sufficient, as security and boarding processes can be quick.
The Tangier Old Port itself is a public area and does not typically have an entry fee. However, specific attractions or ferry services operating from the port will have their own ticket prices.
You will need your passport for ferry travel. While you might show your boarding pass at the terminal entrance, your passport is essential for security and border control.
Yes, you can obtain paper boarding passes at the AML kiosk at the port, even if you've booked online. It's advisable to have your booking confirmation or QR code ready.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tangier Old Port offers restaurants, cafes, boat trips, and is a departure point for ferries to Spain. It's also a great spot for enjoying sunset views.
Yes, the Casbah offers a fantastic vantage point overlooking the port, providing panoramic views. The area near the port also offers beautiful sunset vistas.
The vehicle scanner at the port can generate excessive noise, potentially exceeding decibel limits. Visitors sensitive to noise might want to be prepared.
Absolutely! The port offers dynamic scenes with ferries, boats, and the backdrop of the city. Sunsets here are particularly photogenic, with vibrant colors over the Medina walls.
Expect a lively and bustling atmosphere, typical of a busy port. It's a place of transit and activity, with a mix of travelers and locals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Tangier Old Port area has restaurants and cafes available for visitors. However, be aware that some cafes might not be open early in the morning.
It's recommended to bring Euros for onboard cafes at the Tangier Old Port, as they may be more readily accepted or convenient for purchases.
While the immediate port area focuses on transit and ferry services, the nearby Medina and city center offer a wide array of authentic Moroccan cuisine.
There are cafes available, but their opening hours can vary. It's a good idea to check in advance or have a backup plan if you need a quick bite.
For a more extensive culinary experience, venture into the Tangier Medina, where you'll find numerous traditional Moroccan restaurants and street food vendors.
📸 📸 Photography
The port itself offers great shots of ferries and maritime activity. The Casbah provides panoramic views, and the Medina walls at sunset are particularly stunning.
Sunset is highly recommended for its beautiful light, casting a warm glow over the port and Medina walls.
Maritime photography, cityscape shots, and sunset photography are very popular here. Capturing the blend of old and new Tangier is also a common theme.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of individuals and avoid taking photos of security personnel or sensitive areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide port views and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the expansive sea views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the port itself is functional, consider it as a starting point for broader family exploration. The nearby Medina offers more engaging sights and sounds for kids, with its bustling souks and vibrant street life. Be mindful of the noise from the vehicle scanner if you have very young children.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are cafes, bringing your own snacks or having cash (Euros) for purchases is advisable to avoid potential price variations. Exploring the port area itself is free, and the views from the Casbah are a great, no-cost activity.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The real magic happens at sunset. The sky often erupts in vibrant colors, creating dramatic silhouettes of the Medina walls and the Moroccan flag. The Casbah also offers elevated perspectives for capturing the expanse of the port and the sea.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Ferry Travel from Tangier Old Port
It's crucial to note that while some sources suggest arriving two hours before departure, many travelers find that arriving 40-60 minutes prior is sufficient for a smooth boarding process. This allows ample time for security checks and passport control without excessive waiting. Keep Euros handy for any onboard purchases, as not all cafes may accept cards or Moroccan Dirhams.
Key takeaway: Plan your arrival time strategically, be prepared for the ticket exchange process, and have some Euros on hand for convenience. The ferry experience itself offers scenic views of the strait and the coastlines of both continents.
Experiencing the Port's Atmosphere
One notable aspect mentioned by visitors is the potential for significant noise from the vehicle scanner. While this is a functional element of the port, those sensitive to noise might want to be aware. Despite this, the port offers opportunities for beautiful photography, especially during sunset, when the skies over the Medina walls and the Moroccan flag create a picturesque scene.
Beyond the immediate port facilities, the proximity to the Medina means you're never far from exploring the historic heart of Tangier. The Casbah, in particular, provides excellent elevated views of the port, adding another dimension to your visit.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit