Northern Morocco: the Underrated North
Green mountains, a blue city, a cosmopolitan port and quiet Mediterranean coves - northern Morocco is a different world from the imperial south, and still off many itineraries. Here's what to see.
The Highlights
| Place | Why go |
|---|---|
| Tangier | Cosmopolitan port, Kasbah, cafe culture, one hour from Spain |
| Chefchaouen | The famous blue city in the Rif Mountains |
| Tetouan | A UNESCO Andalusian medina, whitewashed and authentic |
| Al Hoceima | Turquoise Mediterranean coves and a national park |
| Lixus & Asilah | Roman ruins and a pretty whitewashed arts town on the Atlantic |
A Suggested Route
Fly into Tangier - explore the Kasbah and cafes - bus to Chefchaouen (2 h) for the blue lanes - loop via Tetouan or continue to Fes (4 h from Chefchaouen). It slots neatly onto the end of our 2-week itinerary.
When to Go
Spring and autumn are greenest and mildest; summer is warm and lively (Mediterranean beach season); winter is cooler and wetter than the south. See the best time to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is northern Morocco worth visiting?
Yes - Tangier, the blue city of Chefchaouen, Andalusian Tetouan and the Mediterranean coast offer a greener, calmer side of Morocco that many itineraries miss.
How do you travel around northern Morocco?
Tangier has an airport and fast train links; from there, CTM buses and grand taxis connect Chefchaouen, Tetouan and the coast. Chefchaouen itself has no train.
How many days for northern Morocco?
Three to four days covers Tangier, Chefchaouen and Tetouan comfortably - more if you add the Mediterranean beaches around Al Hoceima.
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