Tetouan, known as the “White Dove”, is a beautiful city in northern Morocco, sitting on the slopes of the Rif Mountains. Its charm comes from the narrow, winding streets, lined with whitewashed houses, colorful markets, and craft stalls everywhere. The vibrant doorways and intricate tile work give the city a unique, magical feel. While it may not have as many tourist spots as Marrakech or Casablanca, Tetouan has its special appeal, made even better by the genuine warmth of its people.
One day is all you need to explore Tetouan and see its top attractions like Ensanche, Hassan II Square, and Mulay Mehdi Square.
Whether you’re soaking in the local vibes or trying out the tasty food, Tetouan is a city that will surprise and captivate you. It’s time to uncover the best things to do in Tetouan!
Table of Contents
What are the best things to do in Tetouan?
1. Visit The Medina, the essential district of Tetouan
The Medina of Tetouan is a fortified district known for its labyrinthine white-washed streets that twist and turn, revealing discoveries at every corner. As you wander through, you’ll encounter vibrant souks filled with a lot of stalls. These markets offer everything from tantalizing street food and fresh poultry to fishmongers, and quaint shops selling decorative items and leather goods.
Undoubtedly, the Medina is the ideal spot to hunt for the perfect Moroccan souvenirs. It’s not just a shopping destination but also a delightful place for a stroll, especially since it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
2. Explore the Spanish district of Tetouan
El Ensanche, the Spanish district of Tetouan, contrasts sharply with the rest of the city. Constructed in 1912, it features a modern layout quite distinct from the ancient Medina.
After exploring the winding alleys of the Medina, entering Ensanche is like stepping into another world. The streets here are organized in a neat checkerboard pattern. Mohamed V Avenue, the district’s main thoroughfare, links key attractions like the Spanish and Israeli casinos and Hassan II Plaza.
In Ensanche, don’t miss visiting Place Mulay Mehdi, the Museum of Contemporary Art—housed in what used to be a train station—and the Archaeological Museum, renowned for its stunning Andalusian courtyard. These sites provide a deeper insight into both the historical and cultural fabric of Tetouan.
3. Visit Place Hassan II
Positioned between the Ensanche district and the Medina, Place Hassan II is Tetouan’s main square. It’s home to the Royal Palace, built in 1980, which brings a notable military presence to the area. The square is also distinguished by its unique Art Nouveau-style lighthouses in green and white, mirroring Tetouan’s common color palette. Close by, El Yalae Square offers additional charm and is worth exploring.
4. Visit Mulay El Mehdi yard
While wandering through Ensanche, don’t overlook Mulay El Mehdi yard. This lively circular square features vibrant bars and a central roundabout filled with palm trees. One of its most eye-catching features is the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de las Victorias Church, a bright yellow building that, although closed, stands out dramatically against the other white buildings in the square with its intense color.
5. Visit Cascade Garden
Near Moulay El Mehdi Square, the Cascade Garden acts as a quiet refuge in the bustling city. Visit Cascade Garden for a moment of relaxation. This beautiful place offers a wonderful view of Mount Garghiz and Bouanane, opposite the city of Tetouan.
6. Archaeological Museum of Tetouan
The Tetouan Archaeological Museum, located in Tetouan, Morocco, is a key cultural and historical institution with a history dating back over a century. Established in 1939, the museum is dedicated to preserving regional heritage and houses a rich collection of artifacts from various time periods. Notable items include ancient pottery, jewelry, stone engravings, and coins, primarily sourced from the Roman city of Lixus and the Punic-Mauri site of Tamuda. In 2019, five items from the museum were designated as Moroccan national heritage, and in 2022, it participated in an international exhibition by loaning artifacts to the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid.
7. Discover the Museum of Modern Art
Tetouan showcases not only traditional arts but also contemporary ones, housing one of only two modern art museums in Morocco—the other being in Rabat. The Museum of Modern Art in Tetouan is uniquely located in a former railway station that is linked to Ceuta, adding an architectural interest. Inside, you will find five exhibition rooms filled with Morocco’s finest contemporary art and sculptures. The museum also frequently hosts special exhibitions.
9. Visit the Ethnographic Museum
The Ethnographic Museum in Tetouan, close to Dar Sanaa, occupies a 19th-century fortress built for Sultan Moulay Abderrahman. This museum dives into Tetouan’s rich cultural and historical heritage, showcasing a diverse collection that includes traditional costumes, jewelry, embroidery, musical instruments, weapons, and furniture, all set up in rooms that mimic traditional Tetouani homes. Additionally, visitors can try authentic local dishes in the museum’s kitchen. One of the museum’s highlights is the Trousseau Room, which displays a variety of items related to Tetouani wedding traditions, such as marriage chests, bridal linens, and ceremonial outfits.
10. Attend Tetouan Meditarrean Film Festival
The Tetouan Mediterranean Film Festival is the city’s most prominent event, entering its 29th year in 2024. The festival showcases a wide range of feature films, short films, and documentaries from various Mediterranean and European countries, celebrating the diverse cinematic talents of the region.
What to do around Tetouan?
A Visit to Tangier
Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, across the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is a vibrant city renowned for its historic Kasbah—an old town filled with narrow lanes, painted in hues of blue and white. Within these walls lies the Kasbah Museum, set in the old governor’s palace, offering insights into Tangier’s rich history.
Tangier is also celebrated for its stunning beaches such as the Markala beaches, which are perfect for diving and snorkeling, offering a chance to explore the vibrant marine life in beautiful natural settings.
For more on what to do in Tangier read this post: 12 Best Things To Do In Tangier and 2 Days In Tangier: Perfect Itinerary.
Chefchaouen, the Blue Village
Known as the “blue pearl” of Morocco, Chefchaouen is famous for its all-blue streets, a mesmerizing sight located just 65km from Tetouan. Open to all visitors today, the town was once accessible only to Muslims until the 1920s.
Strolling through Chefchaouen’s medina, you’ll find charming shops offering colorful handicrafts. The central Outa El Hammam square, dominated by the well-preserved Kasbah, is a highlight. The entrance to the Kasbah costs €1.
Getting to Chefchaouen from Tetouan takes about 1.5 hours by car, and though you can also travel by bus or taxi, these options might take longer.
Ceuta
Just 40 kilometers from Tetouan, the Spanish autonomous city of Ceuta offers a unique Mediterranean experience. Despite its compact size, Ceuta is packed with fascinating sites like the Plaza de Armas of the Royal Walls and Monte Hacho, which offers panoramic views of the city. Not to be missed are the Casa de los Dragones and the vibrant Plaza de África.
What to do in Tetouan in 1 day?
Tetouan can be visited in a single day, during which you will have plenty of time to discover its districts, the medina, the kasbah and the Ensanche. During your visit, don’t miss the following points of interest:
- Walk in the Medina
- Walk to the Mosque
- Visit the Tannery
- Walk in Ensanche
- Visit the Square of Hassam II and Moulay Mehdi
If you decide to extend your trip, you can visit other cities in the surrounding area such as Ceuta, Tangier or Chefchaouen .
Traveling to Tetouan: Available Options
By Plane:
Saniat R’mel Airport, located just about 3 kilometers from Tetouan’s city center, is conveniently served by airlines such as Royal Air Maroc and Ryanair. This airport provides connections to other major cities within Morocco, as well as international flights to cities like Madrid, Seville, Malaga, Marseille, and Brussels, making it accessible from various parts of Europe.
By Ferry:
Traveling by ferry is a popular method for reaching Tetouan, especially from Spain. You can catch a ferry from Tarifa to Tangier, or from Algeciras to Ceuta. Both routes are efficient ways to travel if you’re coming by car or plan to visit nearby cities like Tangier. Ferries run every two hours from both cities, with round-trip fares approximately €35 for adults, €20 for children aged 3-12 years, and €85 for cars up to 6 meters.
Taxi to Tangier: Once you disembark in Tangier, Tetouan is about 63 kilometers away, approximately an hour and twenty minutes by car. For those not driving, you can take a bus for around €1.50 or a taxi, which is cost-effective, especially for groups. A seat in a shared taxi typically costs about 30 dirhams (around €3).
Algeciras to Ceuta: From Algeciras, you’ll arrive at the port of Ceuta, about 40 kilometers from Tetouan. Shared taxis are available at the port, costing about 17 dirhams (€1.7) for a ride to the city.
Where to eat in Tetouan?
In Morocco, it often happens that riads are not only the best places to stay, but also the best restaurants. We offer you three that you should not miss during your trip to Tetouan:
Riad El Reducto: This venue isn’t just about accommodation; its restaurant, Riad Blanc, serves up modern Moroccan dishes that highlight the best local ingredients. The menu features creative options like eggplant cannelloni filled with seafood on a bed of olive and honey paste and a goat cheese tagine with caramelized figs and potatoes. For a taste of the sea, try their fish and seafood pastella. Price range: €4-€12.
Blanco Riad Restaurant: A cozy spot located in the heart of Tetouan, Blanco Riad offers a menu packed with traditional Moroccan dishes. The ambiance is as inviting as the food, making it a perfect choice for a relaxing meal right in the city center. Price range: €10-€20.
La Esquina del Pescado: As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in fresh fish and seafood, though it also serves a variety of meat dishes like chicken, lamb, and beef. With options ranging from hearty entrees to light salads and soups, it’s a great spot for any meal. Price range: €5-€15.
Where to stay in Tetouan?
In Tetouan, you’ll find a diverse selection of accommodations in the Medina and Ensanche neighborhoods. Both are conveniently located near each other, making everything within walking distance. To get the most authentic experience, staying in a riad—a traditional Moroccan guesthouse—is highly recommended. Here’s a list of some of the best places to stay in the city:
Riad Darna: Located in the heart of Tetouan, Riad Darna offers a perfect mix of comfort, location, and traditional charm. The rooms are cozy and clean, adorned with beautiful Moroccan decor, and the views from the terrace are breathtaking. Each morning, guests enjoy a superb continental breakfast, included in the price. It’s a top choice for those seeking excellent value for money.
Average price: €45 per night.
Prestige Hotel & Spa: This 3-star hotel is close to the city center. It offers free parking, includes breakfast, and offers exceptional service with stunning views. The prices fluctuate depending on the season, making it a great option for various budgets.
Average price: €47-77 per night, depending on the season.
Riad Khmisa: Set in the Paloma Blanca area of the medina, Riad Khmisa is a family-run gem with a fantastic location. It offers affordable meals, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere. The riad also features a charming terrace and includes breakfast, making it an ideal stay for budget travelers.
Average price: €30 per night.
Tips for your trip to Tetouan
- Currency: The local currency is the Moroccan dirham (1 MAD = 0.096€). It’s advisable to bring cash because many stores do not accept credit cards. Avoid exchanging money at airports due to high fees. Since the dirham is a restricted currency, make sure to exchange any leftover money before you leave the country.
- Climate and Clothing: If you’re visiting during the summer, prepare for the heat by bringing water, a hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Try to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. Dress in light, modest loose-fitting clothing, and carry something warm for cooler evenings.
- Drinking Water: Always opt for bottled water and avoid using ice cubes in your drinks, as they may not be made with purified water.
- Bargaining: Negotiating prices is a common practice in Tetouan and across Morocco. Don’t hesitate to haggle to secure the best deals.
- Health and Safety: Always travel with insurance to cover any medical emergencies. This is crucial for ensuring you can access healthcare without facing high expenses.
Frequently asked questions about traveling to Tetouan
Is it dangerous to travel to Tetouan?
Tetouan is generally safe for travelers, but as with any tourist destination, it’s important to stay vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings, use common sense, and be cautious of scams. Be wary of unsolicited offers for guided tours on the streets, as these can sometimes be scams.
How to get to Tetouan?
The most straightforward way to reach Tetouan is by flying into Saniat R’mel Airport, which is serviced by flights from Spain. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or arranged transfer to the city center. Additionally, Tetouan is accessible by train, bus, or plane from other Moroccan cities, and by ferry from Spain.
Is the tap water in Tetouan drinkable?
While the tap water in Tetouan is technically safe to drink, it might not agree with everyone’s digestive system, especially if you’re not used to it. To avoid any potential discomfort, it’s advisable to stick to bottled water and avoid using ice made from tap water.
Where to stay in Tetouan?
For an authentic local experience, consider staying in a riad, which is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. Riads in Tetouan offer a range of options, from luxurious to more modest accommodations, all close to major tourist attractions.
What language is spoken in Tetouan?
Arabic is the official language in Tetouan. However, Spanish and French are also widely spoken, sometimes English, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, making communication relatively easy for travelers.
