Looking for a change of scenery? The famous city at the gateway to Morocco awaits you with this selection of the five best riads in Tangier.
Welcome to Tangier, the mythical white city with its port overlooking both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Its hilltop medina and winding streets have fascinated generations of artists. The European influence is palpable. Its kasbah attracts photographers, while the medina, surprisingly, remains untouched by crowds of tourists. Too bad for those who miss out on Tangier. And for good reason: they won’t be surprised by its Italian quarter, located behind the Grand Socco. They won’t rest from the hustle and bustle of the city, facing the sea, among the pines of Parc Perdicaris. Nor will they stroll through the Andalusian gardens of the Dar el-makhzen royal palace. As for those who decide to push open the city’s doors, they can enjoy its multicultural life, chat with locals over a mint tea, get lost in the colorful streets of the medina…. But above all, make your home in one of Tangier’s riads.
Yes, what better way to recharge your batteries after a day of exploring than in a real riad? Here’s our selection of the 5 best riads to stay in Tangier.
1. Dar Saba
Photo credit: Booking
Assets: Its location in the heart of the old medina, its view of the city and its decoration.
Price: €€€
Service: ★★★★★
The hotel is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful riads in Tangier. Located in the heights of the old medina, it’s a stone’s throw from the kasbah and the famous balcony overlooking the Mediterranean. Inside, the riad features four suites and two rooms named after famous personalities. The décor mixes Moroccan influences with art deco and a touch of design, resulting in a very elegant and luxurious ambience. The terrace offers an exceptional view of Tangier and the sea.
The restaurant, whose menu changes daily, focuses on Mediterranean cuisine and local products, while offering the possibility of enjoying international dishes. Finally, to complete the exceptional services, the riad has its own hammam with traditional treatment rituals.
2. Dar Sultan
Photo credit: Booking
Assets: Its location in the Kasbah, the history of the house, the charm of the decoration.
Price: €
Service: ★★★★
This 300-year-old house is one of the oldest riads in Tangier. For the record, this was the city’s first guest house, and its location couldn’t be more enchanting, as the riad is situated right in the heart of the Kasbah. A total of 7 rooms, including an apartment, welcome visitors and are decorated with handcrafted furniture from all over the oriental world. In the communal areas, a number of objects evoke great voyages and bear witness to the owner’s former profession as a naval officer.
The rooftop terrace offers a beautiful panoramic view of the old town, and you can watch the sun go down, intoxicated by the scent of orange trees. Likewise, on the patio with its small fountain, you may feel like lounging on the sofas like a cat.
3. Tingis
Photo credit: Booking
Assets: Traditional architecture and decoration, location
Price: € € € € € € € € € € € €
Service: ★★★
Riad Tingis is located in the old medina, just a few hundred meters from the Dar el-Makhzen palace and the main activities of the historic center. The discreet entrance hides superb traditional architecture, with white arches highlighting the colorful elements. The same applies to the patio, with its tiled floor and ornate central fountain.
The riad has eight rooms with simple yet comfortable furnishings, typical of Moroccan interiors, and a spacious terrace with a breathtaking view over the city’s rooftops and the Mediterranean Sea in the background.
As a bonus, the riad offers its guests a free shuttle service from the airport.
4. Dar Chams Tanja
Photo credit: Booking
Assets: Its luxury amenities, its terrace, its central location in the old town
Price: €€
Features: ★★★★★
Among the riads in Tangier, this one has preserved its beautiful Arabo-Andalusian architecture with characteristic white walls right in the medina. Here, the exterior is a pleasant surprise, with a corner wooden bow window and moucharabieh windows. In fact, if you want to enjoy the famous bow window, you’ll have to ask for the Soussia suite. The bright patio, with its carved wooden panels and typical arches, sets the tone.
Seven spacious rooms are available for guests, furnished in Moroccan style with handcrafted elements reminiscent of the different regions of the country.The rooftop terrace has a lovely view for a delicious breakfast and a solarium area.
Finally, to relax after long walks, head for the wellness area with its hammam and traditional treatments.
5. Dar Sami
Photo credit: Booking
Assets: The view from the terrace, the warm welcome and advice on sightseeing.
Price: € per person
Service: ★★
Located high up in the medina, you don’t have to be afraid to climb to get to the Dar Sami riad, but you won’t regret it. If there’s one expression to describe this riad, it’s « just like home »! Indeed, the establishment has five rooms, two of which have a private terrace or balcony. The layout is simple, and the bathrooms are decorated with oriental tiles, but the emphasis is on comfort.
The riad’s highlight is its superb terrace which, like the others, has a beautiful view. What’s more, it overlooks the ramparts of the Kasbah. It’s a real feast for the eyes to contemplate them under the sun’s rays before visiting one of the many nearby monuments.
Now you know the best riads in Tangier. So, which one will you choose?