Grottes d’Hercule

Mediterranean Coast & the Rif Mountains


Legend has it that Hercules used his brute strength to rip Europe from Africa, and afterward he rested here. Grottes d'Hercule is comprised of two caves; one has waterfalls and painfully kitschy decor, the other is empty, and you can view the sea through a hole that looks like the map of Africa. The experience is touristy, yet somehow worth it, especially if accompanied with a walk along the beach to the south.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Mediterranean Coast & the Rif Mountains attractions

2. St Andrew’s Church

7.15 MILES

St Andrew's Church is one of the more charming oddities of Tangier. Completed in 1894 on land granted by Sultan Hassan, the interior of this Anglican…

3. Sidi Bou Abib Mosque

7.2 MILES

Built in 1917, this Mauresque-style mosque and its colourful rose, green, blue and white minaret is an attractive sight towering above Grand Socco. Only…

4. Galerie Delacroix

7.22 MILES

The exhibition hall from the Institut Français hosts temporary exhibitions. It's easy to locate on Rue de la Liberté and free, so it's worth a stop if you…

5. Grand Socco

7.24 MILES

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,…

6. Mendoubia Gardens

7.25 MILES

This large park is full of strolling couples and children playing football. The Mendoubia Gardens are flanked by an elegant line of colonial buildings,…

7. Terrasse des Paresseux

7.27 MILES

The aptly named 'Idlers’ Terrace' provides sweeping views of the port, Spain and, on a really clear day, Gibraltar. A set of ancient cannons faces the bay…

8. Tomb of Ibn Battuta

7.28 MILES

This modest tomb is purported to be the last resting place of Ibn Battuta, who was born in Tangier in 1304 and became the greatest traveller of the period…