11 Unique Things to do in Tangier

Tangier is one of those cities that always keeps me coming back for more since there are so many unusual things to do in Tangier.

Living in Morocco has given me the chance to visit many times, and with each trip, I uncover something new and unexpected.

While most travelers stick with the usual highlights—like the Kasbah and the cafés that once hosted famous writers—there’s so much more to this vibrant city.

From hidden artistic enclaves to off-the-beaten-path experiences, I’ve discovered some of the coolest, most unique things to do in Tangier.

Now I want to share my top picks with you so that you can get off the beaten path and experience all of the magic that Tangier has to offer.

So, if you’re looking to go beyond the typical tourist spots, here are some must-visit attractions in Tangier that will make your visit unforgettable.

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1. Omeza Cafe

I love love love this Tangier cafe more than words can say. Not only is the coffee divine (especially since they give you a bottle of water on the side), but the decor is epic.

Yeah, I’ve been here several times and love that this large cafe is filled with old coffee sacks, tables made out of old wooden crates, bags of coffee, vintage pianos, Tiffany lamps, and more.

Personally, I come here to sip on a caffe latte and enjoy the stunning ambiance of this magical place. I also find the staff to be very helpful and love that they have non-dairy milk available too.

So, stop by and check out one of the best hidden gems in Tangier. Oh, and if you’re feeling a little hungry you can grab a chimney cake or a cinnamon roll too.After all, this is one of the many reasons why Tangier is worth visiting.

2. Librarie de Colonnes

Founded in 1949, Librairie des Colonnes is an integral part of the city’s literary and cultural history.

As a vibrant hub for intellectuals, writers, and artists, this iconic bookstore has welcomed renowned writers and thinkers like Paul Bowles, Samuel Beckett, and William Burroughs.

Today, this iconic spot is home to a diverse collection of books, including works published in French, English, Arabic, and Spanish.

From timeless classics to contemporary fiction, poetry to philosophy, the shelves here are lined with literary treasures catering to a wide array of tastes.

Beyond the actual book collection, the bookstore’s architecture adds to its undeniable charm. In fact, I love coming here and hanging out in the shop’s cozy reading corners.

It’s easily one of the most unusual things to do in Tangier for anyone who loves reading or who wants to get a better understanding of the city’s unique history.

It’s not a big place though. So, I wouldn’t expect to spend a ton of time here unless you really like books.

3. Dar Niaba Museum

Easily one of the most unique things to do in Tangier, the Dar Niaba Museum is nestled in Tangier’s medina and is a testament to the city’s rich diplomatic history.

Housed in one of Tangier’s oldest buildings, the museum’s monumental stone entrance hides a beautiful inner courtyard filled with exquisite trees and an enchanting fountain. It basically looks like one of the most beautiful riads in Tangier.

Originally serving as the residence of the city Naib (the Sultan’s representative to foreign communities), Dar Niaba played a pivotal role in Moroccan diplomacy during the 19th century.

The building also served as the French Consulate General from 1816 to 1849.

Today, it has been transformed into an incredible museum where you can see amazing paintings, beautiful tilework, and learn about the history of this unique structure.

Overall, I enjoyed the exhibits here since they are spread out across two floors and feature lots of amazing paintings. I also love the architecture of this building and think it’s a great place to go to see an authentic Moroccan-style building.

Just remember that this place isn’t huge and will probably take you around 30 minutes to explore. Tickets are also reasonably priced at 20 Dirhams each.

4. The Donkey Museum

If you’re not sure what to do in Tangier then try visiting the Donkey Museum. If I’m being honest, this place isn’t huge and it really isn’t a museum in the traditional sense of the word.

It’s basically just a small gallery where you can see a wide array of donkey paintings and images. To visit, just climb several sets of stairs to the top floor and you’ll see a small gallery with small cool donkey-inspired souvenirs for sale.

Have a look at the various pictures and paintings that pay homage to this hard-working creature.

My fave part though was the gorgeous outdoor patio. You can grab a coffee from a nearby cafe and enjoy it here. I also love the beautiful mural adorning this outdoor space and the charming views of the beach from the top.

It’s not huge and won’t take you a ton of time to visit. However, it is a nice side trip if you’re on your way to the Kasbah.

5. Lorin Foundation Museum

Tucked away along a quiet road in the Medina is the Lorin Foundation. It used to be a synagogue but has now been converted into a two-story museum with a theater.

When I stopped by the museum operated on donations only. So, I gave them a few Dirhams and was able to explore the various historical posters and photos on display.

I liked the exhibits, even though there was no signage in English because the photos invite you to see and feel what Tangier was like many many years ago.

Is this my fave museum in Tangier? No. It’s really small and will probably only take you around half an hour to explore. But, the curator is super nice and is happy to explain the photos and the history of the building.

So, feel free to stop by if you have some extra time and are looking for non-touristy things to do in Tangier as part of your Tangier itinerary.

6. Beit Yehouda Synagogue Assayag

I have been to a lot of synagogues in my day and this is one of the best. First of all, it’s one of the best free things to do in Tangier. Sure, you can make a small donation if you enjoyed your visit. But there is no pressure to leave any money.

Once inside, we got to explore a two-story synagogue and museum in Tangier with tons of Jewish-inspired artifacts. I loved walking through the building and admiring the unique architecture.

I also enjoyed the hanging lanterns and seeing all of the old photos that lined the walls. I was also impressed by their decent collection of Torahs, ancient clothing, menorahs, and more.

Overall, I really loved this museum and was a bit surprised that they had so much on display. Although to be honest, I didn’t expect much and that may be why I was pleasantly surprised.

So, definitely add this place to your Tangier bucket list and enjoy a cool hidden gem that a lot of people seem to miss. Yeah, no one was here when we visited and I like it that way.

7. Galerie Conil

This funk and funky art gallery is a cool place to go if you’re in the Kasbah and want to see some unique modern art from both French and Moroccan artists.

The last time I was here everything was for sale and the women who worked here was SUPER nice. She explained all of the art and how some of it was based on popular Belgian and French cartoons, like Tin Tin.

I liked that there were two floors to the gallery and that you were allowed to freely walk around without feeling pressured to buy anything.

There was also no issue with taking pictures and I just really enjoyed the whole experience. The art was also pretty innovative and drew me in since I hadn’t seen anything like it before.

Just temper your expectations since this place isn’t huge. But, it’s definitely a fun place to visit if you’re looking for something else to do on a rainy day in Tangier.

8. Interzone

Want to do some shopping in Tangier but not sure where to go? If so then visit Interzone. Well located in the Kasbah, this quirky AF store is filled with tons of cool souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else.

So, have a look at unique Interzone t-shirts, coffee mugs inspired by films shot in Tangier, vintage movie posters, antique books, and more.

While I didn’t buy anything here, I loved that the staff were super nice and explained all about the collection.

They also mentioned that there were some vintage postcards and photos on display that were not for sale. So, this place is part museum and part gift shop.

There is also a super cute street right around the corner that you will definitely want to take photos of. So, a fun little place to visit if you want to shop or are running out of things to do.

9. Theatre Riad Sultan

I am more than a little obsessed with this local theatre inside of the Kasbah. First of all, this small arts center features unique concerts from fun artists like Rachid Toumi.

I actually saw him in concert and it was great. The show was about 75 minutes long and tickets were 150 Dirhams each. It was a really nice night out and a fun way to experience Andalusian music.

The staff were also super helpful and let me listen to his music – to make sure I liked it – before I purchased tickets.

However, if you are feeling a bit tired and just want to chill with a latte (they are only 25 Dirhams), then visit their amazing cafe during the day.

It overlooks this beautiful – but sadly private – garden and is a great place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. I really enjoyed the coffee and the ambiance here and will definitely be back.

It’s also an epic spot where you don’t have to worry about safety in Tangier and you can stop by after visiting some of the best restaurants in Tangier.

10. Buena Vista

This spot was recommended to me by someone working at my hostel and I think it’s a great place to go if you’re looking for something fun to do at night in Tangier.

The last time we went we climbed to the second floor, ordered some Manzanilla tea, and climbed up another flight of stairs to the main music room.

Once here, people were chilling on pew-like benches and listening to some karaoke. TBH, I kind of wish a band was playing. However, it is definitely a great place to go if you are looking for a chill night out.

And if you’re not into singing, there are several rooms where you can chat with others and play the guitar.

Oh, and no alcoholic beverages were available the last time I was here. It was really just tea, soda, and coffee. But, it’s popular among locals and is a good spot to meet people since everyone is friendly.

It’s also a fun option if the weather is crappy because you didn’t know about the best time to visit Tangier.

11. Casabarata

This giant indoor/outdoor market is the place to go if you want to shop like a local in Tangier. Not only is this place huge, but you definitely won’t find any tourists here.

Just be aware that this spot is a bit far from the Medina. So, you’ll probably have to take a taxi here. FWIW, a taxi here should cost you no more than 30 Dirhams max.

But, if you do decide to visit this epic hidden gem in Tangier, you’ll get a taste of what REAL, authentic local markets are like.

The last time we were here we just walked around and saw everything from mattresses to shoes to kids’ clothes and more. Personally, I didn’t want to buy anything but some stalls were cool and had a flea market feel.

Just be sure to time your visit right since this spot is only open on Thursdays and Sundays starting at 12:00 pm.

Personally, though, I’d try to arrive closer to 1:00 pm since this is when the market starts to come alive. It’s also a great option if you don’t have time for a day trip from Tangier since it is a bit outside the city center.

Map of the Most Unique Things to do in Tangier

Conclusion

In a city as rich and diverse as Tangier, venturing beyond the usual tourist spots opens up a world of unexpected possibilities.

From exploring hidden museums and secret cafés to immersing yourself in the city’s artistic underground and historic hot spots, Tangier offers an adventure like no other.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced Tangier veteran, embracing the unusual side of this vibrant city will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for its unique charm.

So step off the beaten path and let this guide to Tangier surprise you. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to join our email list and Facebook group for even more awesome Morocco travel tips that you can use after taking the ferry from Spain to Tangier.

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