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Mediterranean Coast & the Rif Mountains

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Date farmer with cart full of dates in village of Tazaka.

Simon Urwin

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Overview

Caught between the crashing waves of the Mediterranean and the rough crags of the Rif Mountains, northern Morocco is one of the most charming parts of the country. Tangier, the faded libertine of a port that links Africa and Europe, has shed its shady past to enjoy a rebirth as fashionable Moroccan riviera. To the east, the coast is dotted with high cliffs and sandy coves; the area booms as a Moroccan holiday destination.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures

    Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures

    Tangier

    This recently refurbished museum is housed in the former sultan's palace of Dar El Makhzen. The focus is on the history of the area from prehistoric times…

  • Tangier American Legation Museum

    Tangier American Legation Museum

    Tangier

    This museum, in an elegant five-storey mansion, is a must-see: Morocco was the first country to recognise the United States by opening its ports to the…

  • Grand Socco (April 9 1947 Square), New City, Tangier, Morocco, North Africa, Africa

    Grand Socco

    Tangier

    The Grand Socco is the romantic entrance to the medina, a large, sloping, palm-ringed plaza with a central fountain that stands before the keyhole gate,…

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    Medina

    Chefchaouen

    Winding alleyways, cute doorways and charming plazas all in many shades of blue – this is what has attracted millions to this tiny village in the Rif…

  • The Medina (Old City), Tangier, Morocco, North Africa, Africa

    Medina

    Tangier

    The medina, the top attraction of Tangier, is a labyrinth of alleyways both commercial and residential. It's contained by the walls of a 15th-century…

  • Petit Socco

    Petit Socco

    Tangier

    This was once the most notorious crossroads of Tangier, the site of drug deals and all forms of prostitution. Today the facades are freshly painted,…

  • Plaza de África

    Plaza de África

    Ceuta

    This is the charming heart of Ceuta, with manicured tropical plantings, a square of freshly renovated cobblestone pathways and some of the city’s finest…

  • Royal Artisan School

    Royal Artisan School

    Tetouan

    Just outside Bab El Okla is the best artisan centre in northern Morocco. This is a fascinating opportunity to see masters teaching apprentices traditional…

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