The Ultimate Insider’s Guide: 20+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Tetouan, Morocco
Nestled between the rugged Rif Mountains and the shimmering Mediterranean, Tetouan stands as Morocco’s most Andalusian city—a UNESCO World Heritage gem often overshadowed by its more famous cousins, Marrakech and Fes. Known as the “White Dove” for its gleaming lime-washed buildings cascading down the hillside, this artistic haven preserves a unique Spanish-Moroccan character that feels worlds away from Morocco’s tourist trails.
Having spent time exploring Tetouan’s labyrinthine medina and elegant Spanish quarter, I can attest that this city offers something truly special: an authentic glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural tapestry without the overwhelming tourism of other imperial cities. This guide blends iconic landmarks with genuine local experiences, uncovering Tetouan’s best-kept secrets and providing practical tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Quick Navigation: Interactive Map & Essential Tetouan Tips
Essential Quick Tips:
- Getting Around: The Medina is strictly pedestrian—wear comfortable shoes and embrace getting lost! For destinations beyond the old city, petit taxis (blue in Tetouan) are affordable and convenient.
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency. While some larger establishments in the Ensanche accept cards, the Medina operates almost exclusively with cash. ATMs are available around Hassan II Square.
- Language: Arabic is the primary language, but Tetouan’s unique history means Spanish is widely spoken (far more than French). Learning a few basic Arabic greetings goes a long way.
- Safety: Tetouan is generally safe for visitors. In the Medina, stay oriented using landmark gates (Babs) and be politely firm with unofficial guides.
Step into History: Tetouan’s Must-See Landmarks & Cultural Hubs
1. Lose Yourself (Intentionally!) in the UNESCO Medina
Tetouan’s Medina stands apart from others in Morocco with its distinctly Andalusian character—a living testament to the Muslim and Jewish refugees who fled Spain during the Reconquista. Unlike the often overwhelming medinas of Fes or Marrakech, Tetouan’s old city feels more intimate and less commercialized.
The medina is divided into distinct zones that reflect its historical organization. The commercial souks are arranged by craft—leatherwork, textiles, metalwork each have their own dedicated streets. The former Jewish quarter (Mellah) features architecture with distinctive balconies and Spanish tile work. The residential areas reveal glimpses of elaborate doorways and internal courtyards.
Key spots not to miss include:
- Bab Okla – The most impressive historic gate and entrance to the medina
- Bab Sebta – Gateway connecting to the Spanish quarter
- El Hot Market – The lively food market where locals shop
- Guersa El Kebira – The main covered textile marketplace
- Feddan Square – Where the medina meets the new town
Insider Experience Tip: Hire a licensed local guide for at least your first exploration. Not only will they prevent you from getting hopelessly lost, but they’ll also reveal historical details and local stories that bring the medina to life. Morning visits (9-11 AM) offer better photography lighting and fewer crowds, while late afternoon provides a glimpse into local daily life as residents return home.
Practicalities: Allow at least half a day for proper exploration. The medina can be entered through several gates, with Bab Okla and Bab El-Remouz being the most convenient for first-time visitors.
2. Admire the Grandeur of Hassan II Square (Place Feddan) & Royal Palace
Standing at the symbolic heart of Tetouan, Hassan II Square (locally known as Place Feddan) represents the perfect meeting point between old and new Tetouan. This grand plaza sits adjacent to the Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen), whose gleaming white exterior and ornate gates offer a glimpse into royal Moroccan architecture, though the interior remains closed to the public.
The square itself pulses with local life—civil servants hurrying to work, families enjoying evening strolls, and the occasional royal guard ceremony. The surrounding buildings showcase a fascinating blend of Moroccan and Spanish colonial styles.
Photo Tip: Position yourself at the northwestern corner of the square in late afternoon for the best light on the palace gates. The contrast between the white walls and green-tiled roof makes for striking photography.
Practicalities: The square is freely accessible at all times. While photographing the palace exterior is permitted, be respectful of any guards present.
3. Discover Tetouan’s Artistic Legacy: Museums & Galleries
Tetouan Archaeological Museum
Housing one of Morocco’s finest archaeological collections, this museum showcases the region’s rich history from prehistoric times through the Roman and Islamic periods. The highlight is undoubtedly the exquisite Roman mosaics from nearby Lixus, depicting mythological scenes with remarkable preservation.
Practical Information:
- Location: 2 Rue Al Madaris, near Bab El Oqla
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
- Entrance Fee: 10 MAD (approximately $1 USD)
Ethnographic Museum (Bab Okla)
Housed within the impressive Bab Okla gate, this compact museum offers fascinating insights into traditional Tetouani daily life. Displays showcase local crafts, traditional wedding costumes, musical instruments, and domestic items that paint a vivid picture of the region’s cultural heritage.
Practical Information:
- Location: Inside Bab Okla gate
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Entrance Fee: 10 MAD (approximately $1 USD)
Centre d’Art Moderne (Modern Art Museum)
Located in the renovated former train station, this gallery celebrates the renowned “Tetouan School” of art, which has significantly influenced contemporary Moroccan painting. The collection features works from both established masters and promising students from Tetouan’s prestigious art academy.
Practical Information:
- Location: Former train station, Avenue Mohammed V
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Entrance Fee: 20 MAD (approximately $2 USD)
Insider Tip: A combined ticket for all three museums can be purchased for 30 MAD, offering significant savings. The Archaeological Museum is free on the first Friday of each month.
4. Stroll Through the Spanish Ensanche (New Town)
Step from medieval Morocco into a slice of Andalusia as you explore Tetouan’s Spanish Ensanche (new town). Built during the Spanish Protectorate period (1912-1956), this district features wide, tree-lined boulevards and elegant Art Deco and Modernist buildings that would look right at home in Madrid or Barcelona.
Highlights include the striking Cinema Español with its ornate façade, the twin-towered St. Raphaël Catholic Church, and the former Spanish Casino (now a cultural center). The district’s urban planning reflects European ideals of the early 20th century, creating a fascinating architectural contrast with the adjacent medina.
Experience: Embrace the Spanish atmosphere by enjoying pastries and coffee at Café Fuentes on Avenue Mohammed V. Their churros with chocolate make for a delightful mid-morning break in authentically Spanish surroundings.
5. Glimpse History from the Kasbah Walls
Perched atop the hill overlooking both the medina and the newer city, Tetouan’s historic Kasbah represents the oldest part of the city. While much of the interior fortress has been repurposed over centuries, the remaining walls and gates offer spectacular panoramic views.
What to Expect: Follow the ancient defensive walls for sweeping vistas over the medina’s white-washed rooftops, the Spanish town’s orderly grid, and (on clear days) all the way to the Mediterranean Sea and even the Rock of Gibraltar on the horizon.
Insider Tip: The best access point is near Bab El-Mqabar. Visit around sunset for the most magical lighting as the entire white city takes on a golden glow. Check with your accommodation about current accessibility, as hours can vary seasonally.
Immerse Yourself: Authentic Tetouani Experiences
6. Master the Souks: Shopping Like a Local
Tetouan’s souks offer a more relaxed shopping experience than Morocco’s more tourist-oriented cities, with opportunities to observe genuine craftsmanship and find authentic goods.
The city particularly excels in:
- Leather goods: Look for the distinctively patterned goatskin purses and slippers unique to the region
- Textiles: Tetouan’s djellabas (traditional robes) feature unusually fine embroidery influenced by Andalusian designs
- Wood carving: Intricately carved cedar items reflect the region’s rich woodworking tradition
- Ceramics: Green-glazed pottery with geometric patterns showcases the city’s Andalusian heritage
Bargaining Etiquette: Price negotiation is expected but should be conducted respectfully. Begin by establishing rapport with the shopkeeper (accept that mint tea if offered!), ask the price, then offer about 40-50% lower. Meet somewhere in the middle after friendly back-and-forth. Remember that aggressive bargaining over small amounts can feel disrespectful.
Unique Find: Visit the Dar Sanaa artisan cooperative shop near Bab Okla, where students of the traditional crafts school sell high-quality work at fair prices. These pieces come with the satisfaction of directly supporting the preservation of traditional techniques.
7. Taste Tetouan: Culinary Delights & Where to Find Them
Tetouan’s cuisine beautifully reflects its geographic and cultural positioning, blending Mediterranean, Andalusian, and Moroccan influences.
Local Specialties:
- Kalinté – A chickpea flour tart with Spanish roots, found in street-side bakeries
- Tetouan Rfissa – Shredded crepes topped with chicken, lentils, and distinctive local spice blends
- Baissara – A hearty fava bean soup popular for breakfast
- Bocadillos – Spanish-style sandwiches filled with tuna, eggs, or potatoes
- Tetouani Pastries – Especially the horn-shaped kaab el ghazal (“gazelle horns”) filled with almond paste
Where to Eat:
- For authentic local food in humble surroundings, try the small eateries around Plaza Primo (in the medina)
- For a refined dining experience in historic surroundings, book dinner at El Reducto or Riad El Reducto
- For Spanish-influenced cuisine and people-watching, the cafés around Place Moulay El Mehdi offer excellent tapas
Experience: Don’t miss the theatre of Tetouani mint tea service, especially at Café Hassan II near the square of the same name. The dramatic high-pour technique aerates the tea and creates the signature foam.
8. Witness Craftsmanship at Dar Sanaa (School of Arts & Crafts)
Founded in 1919 during the Spanish Protectorate, Dar Sanaa represents Morocco’s oldest arts and crafts school—a living preservation center for traditional techniques that might otherwise be lost to time.
Visitors can observe students learning and practicing centuries-old crafts including zellij (mosaic tilework), wood carving, plaster carving, leather embossing, and textile arts. The building itself, a restored 18th-century mansion, showcases these same techniques in its architecture.
Practicalities: Visits are possible Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. A small donation (20-50 MAD) is appreciated. For the fullest experience, visit during school hours when students are actively working.
9. Unwind with a Traditional Hammam Experience
Few experiences offer deeper cultural immersion than visiting a traditional Moroccan hammam (bathhouse). In Tetouan, these social institutions remain integral to local life.
What to Expect: Traditional neighborhood hammams are gender-segregated with simple facilities—a series of steam rooms of increasing heat, where you’ll progress from warm to hot and back again. You’ll need to bring your own soap, scrubbing mitt (kessa), and towel, or purchase them at nearby shops.
For first-timers, hammams catering to tourists (often connected to upscale riads) offer a more guided experience with private rooms and spa services, though at higher prices.
Recommendation: Ask your riad host or hotel concierge to recommend a reputable local hammam. For women traveling solo, Hammam Blanco in the medina offers a comfortable introduction to the traditional experience, while men might try Hammam Ben Kirane.
10. People-Watch and Soak in the Atmosphere (Place Moulay El Mehdi)
At the heart of the Spanish Ensanche, Place Moulay El Mehdi epitomizes Tetouan’s unique cultural blend. This elegant plaza, surrounded by colonial architecture and outdoor cafés, serves as the social hub of modern Tetouan.
In late afternoon and early evening, locals participate in the Mediterranean tradition of paseo (evening stroll), creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Grab a sidewalk table at Café Madrid, order Moroccan coffee or Spanish horchata, and watch Tetouan life unfold before you.
11. Hidden Gem: Hunt for Tetouani Green Doors
Throughout the medina, keep an eye out for Tetouan’s signature painted doors in varying shades of green—from mint to emerald to olive. This distinctive tradition has Andalusian roots, with the color symbolizing Islam and paradise. Many doors feature intricate carvings, brass details, and unique knockers.
Photo Treasure Hunt: Challenge yourself to photograph at least ten different green doors, paying attention to the varying styles and decorative elements. The most elaborate examples can be found in the central residential area of the medina.
Exploring Further: Easy Day Trips from Tetouan
12. Mediterranean Coast Escape (Martil, M’diq, Cabo Negro)
Just 10km from Tetouan lies the Mediterranean coastline, offering a refreshing contrast to the city’s historic atmosphere.
- Martil: The closest beach town (15-minute drive) with a long sandy beach and promenade lined with cafés and seafood restaurants
- M’diq: A former fishing village (25-minute drive) now known for its upscale marina and exceptional seafood restaurants
- Cabo Negro: A pine-covered peninsula (30-minute drive) with more secluded beaches and resort amenities
How to Get There: Grand taxis to Martil depart regularly from the station near Bab Okla (15 MAD per person). For M’diq and Cabo Negro, negotiating a private grand taxi for the day offers the most flexibility (approximately 300-400 MAD).
Insider Tip: Sahara Discovery, a respected local tour operator, runs convenient half-day coastal tours that combine all three destinations with stops for swimming and lunch at a seaside restaurant. Their knowledgeable guides provide cultural context that independent travelers might miss.
13. The Blue Pearl: Chefchaouen
The famous “blue city” of Chefchaouen lies about 60km south of Tetouan—close enough for a day trip, though worthy of overnight accommodation if time permits. The journey traverses spectacular Rif Mountain scenery before arriving at this photogenic mountain town where buildings are painted in various shades of blue.
How to Get There: CTM buses depart from Tetouan’s bus station multiple times daily (2-hour journey, approximately 35 MAD). Alternatively, grand taxis make the trip in about 1.5 hours (approximately 70 MAD per person).
Tour Option: For a more comprehensive experience, Sahara Discovery offers full-day Chefchaouen tours from Tetouan that include transportation, a guided medina walk, free time for exploration, and stops at scenic viewpoints along the mountain route that public transportation bypasses.
14. Tangier’s Port City Buzz
Once a notorious international zone and literary haven, Tangier has transformed into a polished port city while retaining its cosmopolitan edge. Visit the Kasbah Museum, stroll the Corniche, and explore the historic medina before returning to Tetouan’s more tranquil atmosphere.
How to Get There: CTM and Supratours buses connect the cities frequently (1.5-hour journey, approximately 40 MAD). Grand taxis are faster but slightly more expensive (approximately 60 MAD per person).
15. Desert Dreams: Extended Excursions to Morocco’s Interior
While Tetouan itself sits in Morocco’s green northern region, the city makes an excellent starting point for longer journeys to the country’s diverse landscapes, including the legendary Sahara Desert.
For travelers with flexible itineraries, Sahara Discovery organizes multi-day tours departing from Tetouan that connect to Morocco’s imperial cities, the Middle Atlas mountains, and the golden dunes of Merzouga or Zagora. These carefully curated journeys allow visitors to experience the dramatic transition from Tetouan’s Mediterranean environment to the palm oases and vast sand seas of southern Morocco.
Popular Options:
- 3-Day Desert Express: Fes and Middle Atlas villages with one night in desert camps
- 4-Day Imperial Cities & Desert: Combines Fes, Meknes, and desert experiences
- 7-Day Grand Morocco Circuit: The comprehensive experience including Marrakech, Fes, and multiple desert nights
Practical Note: These extended excursions typically end in Marrakech or Fes rather than returning to Tetouan, making them ideal for travelers planning to explore more of Morocco.
Essential Planner: Your Tetouan Trip Logistics
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer ideal weather conditions with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. Summer brings crowds of Spanish tourists and Moroccan expatriates returning home, while winters can be surprisingly chilly and rainy. If your visit coincides with Ramadan, expect altered business hours and a unique cultural experience.
Getting There
- By Air: Tetouan Airport (SMR) receives limited flights, primarily from Spain. Most international travelers fly into Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG), then continue to Tetouan by bus or taxi (90 minutes).
- By Train: Morocco’s efficient train network connects to Tangier, but not directly to Tetouan. From Tangier’s train station, take a CTM bus or grand taxi.
- By Bus: CTM and Supratours operate comfortable buses to Tetouan from major Moroccan cities. The Tangier-Tetouan route is particularly frequent.
- By Grand Taxi: These shared Mercedes sedans connect all major towns in northern Morocco and offer a faster alternative to buses.
- Organized Transfer: Sahara Discovery offers private airport transfers from both Tetouan and Tangier airports with no waiting times and the option for scenic detours en route.
Where to Stay
- Medina Riads: For authentic atmosphere and historic charm, restored traditional houses like Riad El Reducto, Blanco Riad, or Dar Rehla offer central locations and cultural immersion.
- Ensanche Hotels: For modern conveniences and easier access, Hotel Atenas, Hotel Al Mandari, or Hotel Marina offer good value in the Spanish quarter.
Duration
Ideally, allocate 2-3 full days for Tetouan itself. This allows time to properly explore the medina, visit key museums, experience hammam culture, and still have leisurely moments at cafés. Add extra days if planning day trips to nearby attractions.
Culture & Etiquette
- Dress: While Tetouan is relatively progressive, respectful dress is appreciated. For both individuals, covering shoulders and knees is advisable, especially in the medina.
- Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people. Some craftspeople may request a small tip.
- Greetings: Basic Arabic phrases like “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) and “Shukran” (thank you) are warmly appreciated. Spanish greetings are also widely understood.
Money Matters
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is not available outside Morocco, so exchange upon arrival.
- ATMs: Available around Hassan II Square and in the Ensanche district.
- Cards: Accepted at upscale restaurants and hotels in the Ensanche, but cash is essential for the medina.
- Costs: Tetouan is notably more affordable than Marrakech or Fes. Budget approximately 150-250 MAD for a quality restaurant meal, 10-15 MAD for street food, and 300-1000+ MAD for accommodation depending on standard.
Safety Considerations
Tetouan is generally safe for visitors, with typical precautions advised:
- Use landmarks (gates, mosques, fountains) to navigate the medina
- Download offline maps before exploring
- Politely decline assistance from unofficial guides (legitimate guides carry credentials)
- Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
Sample Tetouan Itineraries (Adaptable)
Tetouan in 1 Day:
- Morning: Guided medina tour (2-3 hours)
- Lunch: Local eatery near Guersa El Kebira
- Afternoon: Archaeological Museum, stroll through Hassan II Square
- Evening: Dinner and people-watching in the Ensanche
Time-Saving Tip: Sahara Discovery’s “Tetouan Highlights” day tour efficiently covers the medina, key museums, and panoramic viewpoints with expert commentary, ideal for visitors with limited time.
Tetouan in 2 Days:
Day 1:
- Morning: Extensive medina exploration with guide
- Lunch: Traditional meal in the medina
- Afternoon: Archaeological Museum and Ethnographic Museum
- Evening: Dinner in a riad
Day 2:
- Morning: Spanish Ensanche walking tour, Modern Art Museum
- Lunch: Spanish-influenced café in Place Moulay El Mehdi
- Afternoon: Dar Sanaa visit, shopping time
- Evening: Hammam experience followed by dinner
Tetouan in 3 Days:
Days 1-2: Follow the two-day itinerary above
Day 3:
- Option A: Day trip to Chefchaouen with Sahara Discovery (includes transportation, guided tour, and free time)
- Option B: Morning at the Kasbah walls, afternoon at Martil beach
- Option C: Deeper medina exploration focusing on specific crafts, cooking class, or more relaxed pace
Multi-Activity Option: Sahara Discovery’s “Tetouan Cultural Immersion” package combines city exploration with a hands-on cooking class and artisan workshop visits for travelers seeking deeper engagement with local traditions.
Tetouan: Where Morocco’s Soul Shines Brightest
Few Moroccan cities preserve their cultural heritage with the authenticity of Tetouan. From the Andalusian-inflected architecture of its UNESCO-protected medina to the artistic traditions still practiced in its workshops, Tetouan offers visitors a more intimate and genuine connection to Moroccan life than its more tourist-oriented counterparts.
Whether you’re losing yourself in the medina’s maze of whitewashed lanes, savoring the unique Spanish-Moroccan fusion cuisine, or watching artisans practice centuries-old crafts, Tetouan rewards travelers seeking cultural depth over Instagram fame.
For those looking to maximize their experience with minimal logistical hassle, Sahara Discovery’s local expertise and range of tour options—from city walks to desert expeditions—provide a balanced blend of convenience and authenticity. Their office near Hassan II Square serves as a helpful resource even for independent travelers seeking advice.
What part of Tetouan are you most excited to explore? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this guide with fellow Morocco enthusiasts!
