A Historic Andalusian Port: The Essential Travel Guide to Tetouan
- Malika
- May 2, 2024
- 14 min read
Updated: Jul 3
Looking for the best things to do in Tetouan or highly recommended places to stay? Discover the ideal time to visit, tips for getting around and the best Tetouan tours in this essential travel guide.
Clustered along the slopes of the Martil Valley, Tetouan is a historically rich city on Morocco’s Mediterranean coastline. While not as well-known amongst tourists as nearby Tangier, it's a destination that's well worth exploring, particularly if you're into architecture and cultural heritage.
Tetouan's origins can be traced back to the 3rd century BCE when it was founded as the settlement of Tamouda, an ancient Amazigh town that was razed by Roman legions in 42 CE. It was revived in the 14th century by the Merenid Sultan Abu Thabit and flourished in 1484 with the arrival of Andalusian refugees fleeing the fall of Granada.
It was the architectural and artistic influences brought from southern Spain that shaped Tetouan into the whitewashed city seen today. In 1913, Tetouan became the capital of the Spanish protectorate in Morocco until independence in 1956.
Now situated at the heart of a fertile agricultural region, modern Tetouan remains deeply connected to its past. The medina's Andalusian-style architecture, with its elegant arches and carved wooden doors, reflects the city's Moorish influences. Beyond the medina's walls, the more modern Ensanche district provides a glimpse into Tetouan's colonial past under the Spanish protectorate.
In this Essential Travel Guide to Tetouan, discover everything you need to know about visiting this atmospheric port, including the best things to do in Tetouan, highly-rated places to stay and the ideal time to visit.
Tetouan also makes a perfect base for exploring the nearby beach resort of Al Hoceima and the surrounding Rif Mountains, including the enchanting “Blue City” of Chefchaouen and Talassemtane National Park.
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BEST TOURS IN TETOUAN
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Tetouan tour recommendations:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best things to do in Tetouan
Wander through the medina
Tetouan's medina is a remarkably well-preserved gem that celebrates Andalusian design. When Muslim and Jewish refugees fled the fall of Granada in southern Spain in the 15th century, they settled in Tetouan and built the medina in the style of their former homeland.
As a result, Tetouan contains the most extensive collection of Hispano-Moorish architecture in the country. Meandering through the medina's narrow lanes is definitely one of the best things to do in Tetouan, taking you past lovingly maintained buildings with colourful tilework and graceful arches.
Several historic homes have been restored and converted into small museums and cultural centres, such as Dar El Oddi, a stunning example of a traditional medina mansion. Today, this centuries-old residence houses a photographic collection depicting Tetouan's evolution over the years, as well as vintage postcards, stamps and maps.
Also not to miss is the Ethnographic Museum (housed within Bab el-Okla), which contains insightful exhibits explaining local customs and traditions.
In the northeast corner of the medina lies the tannery district, where leather goods are produced and sold, though on a smaller scale than the more famous tanneries in Fes. For the best people-watching in Tetouan, head to Place Feddan with its mosaic-decorated benches.
Opening hours of Dar El Oddi: 10 am to 6:30 pm (closed Mondays)
Entrance fee for Dar El Oddi: 25 DH
Opening hours of the Ethnographic Museum: 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee for the Ethnographic Museum: 30 DH
Best things to do in Tetouan
Explore the Ville Nouvelle
Tetouan's Ville Nouvelle centres around Avenue Mohammed V, where locals and visitors alike gather in the alfresco cafes that line its route. People watching here with a Moroccan mint tea is, in my opinion, one of the best things to do in Tetouan. At the eastern end lies the historic Place El Mechouar, a grand plaza flanked by the stately Royal Palace and the strikingly beautiful Pasha Mosque.
For sightseeing, head west up the avenue to Place Moulay El Mehdi, home to the yellow-hued Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de las Victorias. With its distinctive Spanish colonial architecture, this cathedral harkens back to Tetouan's past while continuing to serve as an active place of Catholic worship today.
After admiring its striking facade, make your way southeast down Avenue Al Massira El Jadida to visit the Tetouan Modern Art Center, housed in the city's old train station. Its galleries showcase some of Morocco's finest contemporary artworks - a testament to the country's thriving creative culture.
Opening hours of the Tetouan Modern Art Center: 9:30 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm weekdays and 9:30 am to 2 pm Saturdays (closed Sundays)
Entrance fee for the Tetouan Modern Art Center: Free
Best things to do in Tetouan
Go shopping in Tetouan’s souks
Tetouan’s souks are lively hubs of local commerce, offering an immersive experience of Moroccan daily life. Wandering through the narrow alleys lined with colourful stalls, it’s hard not to be swept up in the energised atmosphere. Plus, the souvenir shopping is excellent!
If you're looking to pick up authentic Moroccan goods, the Souk District houses several markets specialising in local wares. Guersa El Kebira is home to rows of textile vendors selling traditional Moroccan fabrics and clothing while Souk El Hot is known for its ornate ceramics and gold and silver jewellery.
Want to explore Tetouan with the help of a local? This customised walking tour of Tetouan receives rave reviews for the friendliness of its lead guide, Abir, and his extensive knowledge of the city.
Best things to do in Tetouan
Visit the Tetouan Archaeological Museum
The Tetouan Archaeological Museum is an unmissable destination for history buffs and houses a treasure trove of artefacts and information about the region's fascinating past. It's framed by picturesque gardens that are all part of its appeal.
The museum's crown jewel is undoubtedly the Roman mosaic known as "The Three Graces," which was unearthed at the archaeological site of Lixus. Dating back to the 2nd or 3rd century AD, this mosaic depicts the three goddesses of charm, beauty and creativity in multicoloured tilework that is remarkably well-preserved.
In addition, the museum also displays a wealth of artefacts from excavations across northern Morocco, giving visitors a glimpse into the area's prehistory and antiquity. From stone tools and weapons to jewellery, coins and bronzes dating to the Carthaginian and Roman eras, the collections illuminate many facets of life in ancient Morocco.
Opening hours of the Tetouan Archaeological Museum: 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee for the Tetouan Archaeological Museum: 10 DH
For more cultural inspiration, check out this list of the best museums in Tetouan
Best things to do in Tetouan
Relax on the sands of Martil
Located just 10 kilometres northeast of Tetouan’s medina is the seaside town of Martil, the perfect place to escape for a swim on hot, summer days. This relaxed fishing port offers a front-row seat to watch local fishermen haul in the daily catch, with plenty of shoreside restaurants ready to prepare the seafood just the way you like it.
During July and August, Moroccan families flock to Martil's sunny shores for their annual beach holidays, filling the hotels, apartments and restaurants. On weekends throughout the warmer months, the beach buzzes with activity as locals come to relax on the sand, creating a really authentic Moroccan seaside experience.
The journey from Tetouan to Martil takes just 15 minutes, with both buses and taxis making the trip. Alternatively, you can continue further north to M'diq, another popular Mediterranean beachside town.
Travel guide to Tetouan
Embark on a day trip to Chefchaouen
Nestled in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco is the "Blue Pearl”, so named for its medina painted in all shades of blue. While only an hour’s drive from Tetouan, Chefchaouen feels like another world - its winding cobblestone alleyways are a photographer’s dream.
Founded in 1471 as a holy city, Chefchaouen has long been a place of spiritual pilgrimage. A highlight of any visit is meandering through the medina, where every corner reveals a new shade of hypnotic blue. The tradition of painting the buildings in different hues of blue began in the 1930s and has given Chefchaouen its iconic identity.
While exploring Chefchaouen, keep an eye out for the 15th-century kasbah (now home to a small ethnographic museum) and the octagonal minaret of the city's Grand Mosque. Perched atop a hill east of the medina is the Spanish Mosque, which offers superb views across the blue and white rooftops of Chefchaouen.
Want to visit both Tetouan and Chefchaouen in a single day? This guided tour from Tangier explores both destinations and is ideal for those who are short on time.
For more information about visiting the "Blue Pearl", check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Chefchaouen.
Best day trips from Tetouan
Go trekking in Talassemtane National Park
Sprawling to the east of Chefchaouen is Talassemtane National Park, a hiker’s paradise in the Rif Mountains. This rugged region beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore its pine-clad slopes and winding trails that weave between Amazigh villages seemingly frozen in time.
Talassemtane’s landscape is characterised by wind-hewn rock formations and thick cedar forests perfumed with herbs - sightings of Barbary apes are not uncommon here. The Rif Mountains are also a rewarding birding destination, with over 100 species of birds identified so far, including golden eagles.
The most popular destinations within the area are the Cascades d’Akchour and the Bridge of God, both of which can be visited on guided day trips to Talassemtane National Park. Also recommended is this full-day hiking excursion, which takes in the park’s highest peak, Mount Lakraa.
Things to see and do in Tetouan
Discover little-visited Al Hoceima National Park
Tetouan serves as the ideal starting point for explorers eager to dive into the wild and rugged landscapes of Al Hoceima National Park. Though less frequented than Talassemtane National Park, this expansive protected area encompasses a wide swathe of the central Rif Mountains as they sweep dramatically down to meet the coastline.
To enter the national park, most visitors pass through the coastal town of Al Hoceima, located 234 kilometres southeast of Tetouan. Within the park's borders, you’ll find endemic Thuya trees, as well as more common species like carob, wild olive and Aleppo pine.
Hidden within the mountains are isolated Amazigh villages connected only by rough dirt tracks, best navigable by 4WD vehicles or mountain bikes.
Along the coastline, Al Hoceima National Park shelters secluded beaches bordered by spectacular limestone cliffs that plunge into the sea. For those seeking to trade crowded resorts for deserted nature, this little-visited part of Morocco offers a landscape ripe for exploration and discovery.
Top tours in Tetouan
While Tetouan is a compact city and easy to navigate independently, a guided tour can really enhance the experience. With a local at the helm, you'll discover a wealth of cultural and historical insights that you might not stumble across alone.
Tetouan can also be used as a base for visiting Tangier on a guided tour or you can do it in the opposite direction (stay in Tangier and visit Tetouan on a guided tour). Chefchaouen is also within easy reach, with several day trips from Tetouan focused on the "Blue Pearl".
Both Viator and GetYourGuide are good starting points for finding highly-rated Tetouan tours, complete with honest reviews from previous travellers.
Visiting the Spanish district, the Jewish quarter and the 15th-century kasbah, this highly-rated walking tour lasts around three hours hours and includes a drink and snack.
Learn about the history and culture of Tetouan while sampling tasty bakery treats on this three-hour tour of the city.
Beginning with a guided tour to explore all of Tetouan's main sights, this full-day trip continues to Chefchaouen to discover the "Blue Pearl".
Departing Tetouan, this full-day tour includes an exploration of the Tangier medina and kasbah, as well as a stop at Cap Spartel.
How to get to Tetouan
Tetouan is served by Sania Ramel Airport, which receives regular flights from several major European cities, as well as destinations across Morocco. Air Arabia has flights to Tetouan from Amsterdam, Madrid and Barcelona while Ryanair flies from Malaga, Alicante and Brussels.
Taxis are readily available at the airport for getting into central Tetouan.
For a more extensive choice of flights, Tangier-Ibn Battouta International Airport is the main aviation gateway to northern Morocco and located around 70 kilometres (43 miles) from Tetouan.
While buses and grand taxis (share taxis) make the journey, the fastest and most convenient way of getting between the two cities is with a Tangier to Tetouan private transfer.
For more information about visiting Tangier (including things to do and places to stay), check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Tangier.
If you’re self-driving, the roads in northern Morocco are generally in a good state of repair and the most direct journey should take just over an hour. If time allows, I’d recommend taking the scenic coastal route that hugs the Strait of Gibraltar. This magnificent drive winds past sun-drenched beaches, seaside cliffs and rolling green hills dotted with whitewashed villages.
To find the best rental car deals in Morocco, visit Discover Cars, which compares vehicles from more than 500 suppliers. It offers 24/7 support for peace of mind, as well as free cancellation.
Travel guide to Tetouan
Best places to stay in Tetouan
Whether you're after a traditional riad, a budget airport hotel or a luxury villa, Tetouan offers some incredible places to stay. Many of its beautifully restored heritage stays exemplify Andalusian design - it's like staying in a living museum.
Not only that but Tetouan lies just 30 minutes' drive from one of the newest properties in the prestigious Royal Mansour collection at Tamuda Bay. If you're after a luxury beachside vacation in Morocco, this is the place to stay!
For more accommodation inspiration, check out my list featuring the best hotels in Tetouan.
Best places to stay in Tetouan
Translating as Riad One Thousand and One Nights, this traditional Moroccan guesthouse is located in the heart of Tetouan's ancient medina. The property was lovingly renovated in 2018 with the utmost respect to Moroccan craftsmanship and architectural traditions.
Each of the riad's uniquely decorated suites provides an intimate, romantic atmosphere, straight from the pages of an Arabian Nights fable. From the rooftop terrace, you can enjoy panoramic views of Tetouan's medina while sipping on a mint tea.
"I have visited over 60 countries and, honestly, this hotel is the most unique hotel I have stayed at! The hotel is just an amazing - a beautiful work of art! If you want a sense of what Moroccan culture is like, stay here!” - Gallagher (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Tetouan
The stunning interior of Riad El Manantial - one of the best hotels in Tetouan (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Riad El Manantial is an elegant four-star hotel that provides easy access to Tetouan's top attractions. It's located just a stone's throw from the Grand Mosque and the Royal Palace, with its ornate Andalusian architecture dating back to the 13th century.
The riad itself is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century palace, allowing you to experience a piece of Tetouan's heritage first-hand. Many of the airy rooms overlook the mountains and are furnished with luxurious touches while the bathrooms are modern and clean.
Guests rave about the exquisite decorations in this Tetouan riad - the photos just don’t do it justice!
"Incredible. It's a royalty stay! The place is surreal…like you're in a painting.” - Ramy (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Tetouan
The recently inaugurated Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay represents the pinnacle of beachside luxury - it truly doesn’t get any better than this on the Moroccan Riviera! It's located just 30 minutes' drive north of Tetouan near the beach town of M'diq.
This is the third establishment in the esteemed Royal Mansour Collection (following the Royal Mansour Marrakech and the Royal Mansour Casablanca), all of which exemplify the highest standards in hospitality and fine dining.
Fifty-five stunning accommodations are distributed across the property, showcasing stylish décor inspired by the natural beauty of the coastline. The resort boasts impressive amenities, including sparkling pools, an opulent spa and several restaurants led by renowned chefs. For ocean enthusiasts, there are numerous water sports to enjoy, such as standup paddle-boarding, banana boating and luxury yachting.
“Everything was perfect.” - Badi (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Tetouan
Dar Fama $
Tucked away in the winding alleys of the medina is Dar Fama, a boutique Tetouan hotel offering guests a taste of traditional Moroccan hospitality. Upon entering through an intricately carved wooden door, you arrive in an open-air courtyard with a cosy fireplace - perfect for gathering on cool winter nights.
The rooms exude a homey ambiance with handcrafted furnishings, beautifully tiled floors and gorgeous textiles. The breakfasts here feature local products while the knowledgeable staff create a warm and familial atmosphere.
"This is the best place to stay in Tetouan! What a work of art the interior design is. The staff were absolutely gorgeous and went above and beyond to help us with anything we needed.” - Kate (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Tetouan
The entrance to Riad Dar Fama - one of the best hotels in Tetouan (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Boasting a quiet location within the medina, Riad Soul of Tetouan is one of the best-rated hotels in Tetouan. Each of the rooms opens onto a private terrace overlooking the courtyard below, providing a quiet spot to relax with a cup of mint tea brewed to perfection.
The rooms themselves blend traditional Moroccan style with modern comforts - zellije tiles adorn the walls and handcrafted wooden furnishings outfit each space.
Previous guests praise the attentive staff, who happily share recommendations on the best local restaurants and shopping spots. All up, Riad Soul of Tetouan is an authentic home away from home in this historic corner of northern Morocco.
"The best place I have stayed at in Morocco! Quiet location inside the medina, beautiful house with a nice rooftop, and the hosts were great too!” - Clothilde (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Tetouan
A beautifully decorated suite at Hotel Blanco Riad - one of the best places to stay in Tetouan (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Housed in a former Spanish consulate, this elegant Tetouan riad showcases the building's original white pillars, graceful arches and central courtyard. The current owners fell in love with the property years ago during an unplanned visit and quickly quit their jobs to renovate the riad into a palatial retreat.
The result is a luxury Tetouan hotel that immerses guests in the city’s cultural heritage while providing an elegant place to stay. Modern Moroccan cuisine is served on the shaded terrace, as are continental breakfasts. At the end of the day, you can admire the medina from the rooftop terrace.
"A beautiful, elegant riad in Tetouan's ancient Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blanco Riad has a beautiful central courtyard, friendly and helpful staff.” - Lori (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Tetouan
The whitewashed interior patio of Hotel Blanco Riad, one of the best places to stay in Tetouan (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Villa Mati $$
Within walking distance of Sania Ramel Airport, Villa Mati Maison D'hôtes is the perfect place to stay if you have an early morning flight. Surrounded by manicured gardens, this budget-friendly Tetouan villa features air-conditioned rooms with private patios overlooking the greenery.
Each comes with a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and a kettle while some also boast separate lounges with fireplaces. Families will appreciate the two-bedroom suites, ensuring everyone can stay together. Outside, you’ll find a sparkling pool where you can splash around in the summer months.
"Very beautifully styled villa! Rooms and bathrooms are big and equipped with everything you need…The pool is small but very refreshing on a hot day.” - Fatima (read more reviews here)
Best time to visit Tetouan
Best time to visit Tetouan
Spring and autumn offer the best conditions for exploring Tetouan's winding alleys and sightseeing in this historic Andalusian city. March to May and September to November see pleasant weather in the low-to-mid 20s Celsius (high 60s Farenheit), perfect for strolling the medina and relaxing at the cafes.
The summer months of June through August can be quite hot, with temperatures regularly topping 30°C (86°F). There’s an influx of European visitors on their summer holidays, together with travelling Moroccans who like to hit the Mediterranean beaches nearby.
Despite the cooler temps (highs around 16°C/60°F), December is also quite busy as Europeans look to escape the cold back home. Book rooms and activities well in advance if you're travelling at this time.
