Long overlooked by mainstream tourism, Tangier remains one of Morocco’s most fascinating escapes – a city that has always drawn artists, writers and free spirits seeking inspiration and calm. As Princess Ira von Fürstenberg once said, “I love Tangier because it mixes the up-here with the down-there, and nothing in between.”
Perched where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, Tangier’s whitewashed walls and faded glamour evoke a world apart – stylish yet sleepy, cultured yet unpretentious. While Marrakech hums with energy, Tangier still feels blissfully under the radar; its rhythm is slower, its charm quieter.
A City of Stories
Tangier’s past reads like a novel. Gifted to England in 1661 as part of Queen Catherine of Braganza’s dowry, it swiftly gained a reputation for intrigue and excess. Samuel Pepys complained of “nothing but vice” during his visit, but by the late 19th century the British journalist Sir Walter Harris was rekindling its allure, describing sultans, spies and storytellers with relish.
By the mid-20th century Tangier was at its decadent height. Heiress Barbara Hutton, Paul Getty and fashion muse Loulou de la Falaise mingled with artists and bohemians. William S. Burroughs wrote Naked Lunch here, and the Hotel Tangerinn became a symbol of the Beat generation. Today, Tangier is once again the haunt of those in the know – elegant travellers, writers and designers drawn by its gentle winter sun, oysters on the beach and the light over the Strait of Gibraltar.
Getting There in Style
Thanks to Morocco’s high-speed Al Boraq train, Tangier is effortlessly connected to Casablanca in just two hours and to Marrakech in under five. For those travelling with Fleewinter, it’s an ideal inclusion in our Northern Morocco Highlights or Imperial Cities by Train itineraries – journeys that combine comfort, culture and the romance of rail.
Our Northern Morocco Highlights trip links Tangier with Asilah, Chefchaouen and Fes, while the Imperial Cities by Train route explores Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Fes and Meknes. For a slower pace, our Luxury & Relaxation Escape pairs Marrakech’s vibrant souks with the sea air of Essaouira – perfect for unwinding after your time in Tangier.
The Luxury of Quiet
Belgian designer Philip Vergeylen, a long-time Tangier resident, sums it up best: “The greatest luxury is the ability to get away from too many people and too much noise.” In Tangier, that luxury still exists. Wander the medina’s narrow lanes, linger over mint tea on a terrace, or simply watch the ferries slip across to Spain – life moves to a softer rhythm here.
Plan Your Moroccan Journey with Fleewinter
Whether you’re chasing culture, sunshine or a touch of old-world glamour, Fleewinter will craft a journey that fits your pace. From Tangier’s artistic heritage to the souks of Marrakech and the beaches of Essaouira, our tailor-made itineraries combine authentic experiences with hand-picked comfort.
Ready to uncover Morocco’s quiet magic?
Contact Fleewinter to begin your bespoke Tangier adventure.
At Fleewinter, we specialise in crafting tailor-made Morocco holidays that showcase the country’s diversity — from Tangier’s artistic coastline to the imperial cities of Marrakech, Fes and Rabat, and the serene beaches of Essaouira. Our Morocco experts create journeys built around your interests, combining authentic riads, first-class train travel and private guided experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the Northern Morocco Highlights, journeying through the Imperial Cities by Train, or simply relaxing on a Luxury & Relaxation Escape, we’ll make sure your Moroccan adventure is seamless, inspiring and entirely your own.
