Exploring the Best Traditional Cafes in Tangier: A Guide to Morocco’s Cultural Hotspots
Tangier, a bustling city at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, is known for its vibrant culture, stunning coastline, and rich history. One of the best ways to experience the spirit of this unique Moroccan city is by spending time in its traditional cafes. Here, locals and travelers alike gather to sip Moroccan mint tea, enjoy strong coffee, and watch the world go by. From the lively atmosphere of the medina to the scenic seaside, Tangier’s traditional cafes offer a window into Moroccan life.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best traditional cafes in Tangier, highlighting must-visit spots where you can soak up the city’s charm, history, and hospitality.
Café Hafa: A Seaside Legend
No list of Tangier cafes is complete without mentioning Café Hafa. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Café Hafa has been a favorite spot for locals, artists, and visitors since it opened in 1921.
This historic café offers an unbeatable view of the Strait of Gibraltar, making it a prime location for relaxation and people-watching.
What to Expect: With its iconic blue and white terraces, simple decor, and welcoming atmosphere, Café Hafa captures the essence of Tangier. Try a pot of traditional Moroccan mint tea, served in small glass cups, as you take in the breathtaking view. The vibe here is casual and timeless, making it a perfect stop to unwind and take in Tangier’s coastal beauty.
Why It’s Special: Café Hafa has a rich history of attracting writers, musicians, and artists, including the likes of Paul Bowles and the Rolling Stones. It’s a place with an unmistakable ambiance that keeps people coming back for its charm, views, and connection to Tangier’s creative past.
See reviews of Café Hafa on TripAdvisor
Café Baba: An Icon of the Kasbah
Nestled in the heart of the Kasbah, Café Baba is a hidden gem with an intriguing history. Known for its intimate vibe and walls lined with photos of famous visitors, Café Baba has become a must-visit for travelers who want to step into Tangier’s Bohemian past.
What to Expect: The café is modest and unpretentious, with vintage décor that transports you to a different era. It’s a small space with low tables and stools, which gives it a cozy and authentic feel. Order a traditional Moroccan coffee or mint tea, sit back, and enjoy the ambiance that so many famous visitors have loved.
Why It’s Special: Café Baba is famously associated with rock legends like Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, as well as other celebrities who frequented it in the 1960s and ’70s. The café’s charm lies in its simplicity and strong connection to Tangier’s rich cultural history, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s artistic legacy.
See reviews of Café Baba on TripAdvisor
Gran Café de Paris: A Hub for Writers and Thinkers
Another iconic spot in Tangier’s café scene is Gran Café de Paris. Located in the center of Tangier, this café has been an intellectual meeting place for decades, attracting writers, journalists, and travelers from around the world. Its spacious, old-world interior and elegant European-inspired decor make it stand out as one of the city’s most famous cafes.
What to Expect: Gran Café de Paris offers a more refined atmosphere with large windows overlooking the bustling streets of Tangier. It’s a perfect place for people-watching while enjoying a rich Moroccan coffee or a fresh pastry. The café also offers free Wi-Fi, which makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors who want to linger over their drinks and work or chat.
Why It’s Special: Gran Café de Paris has hosted several prominent literary figures, including Paul Bowles and Tennessee Williams. It’s a place with a historical aura that invites you to sit back, sip your coffee, and imagine the stories that unfolded here over the years.
See reviews of Gran Café de Paris on TripAdvisor
Café Central: Where Modern Meets Traditional
Located in the heart of the Petit Socco, Café Central combines traditional Moroccan café culture with a touch of modern energy. This café is popular among locals and tourists alike, thanks to its lively ambiance and prime location in Tangier’s medina. It’s the perfect spot to experience Tangier’s street life, with tables lining the busy square.
What to Expect: Café Central is an ideal place to enjoy a Moroccan breakfast or light snack, including mint tea, pastries, and freshly squeezed orange juice. The café’s outdoor seating allows you to feel the buzz of the medina as you relax and watch the colorful street life unfold.
Why It’s Special: Café Central’s location in the Petit Socco square means it’s surrounded by history and culture. The square itself is a hub of activity, and the café’s open-air seating gives you a front-row seat to the sights and sounds of Tangier’s vibrant medina.
See reviews of Café Central on TripAdvisor
Café Tangerinn: A Bohemian Favorite
If you’re looking for a spot that blends Tangier’s artistic roots with a cozy, relaxed vibe, Café Tangerinn is the place to go. Located near the American Legation Museum, Café Tangerinn offers a more intimate setting where you can enjoy a range of drinks, from mint tea to European-style coffee.
What to Expect: This café’s warm interior, filled with artwork and vintage furniture, makes it a comfortable place to spend an afternoon. Café Tangerinn’s unique decor reflects Tangier’s bohemian spirit, and it often draws a mix of locals and travelers who enjoy its artsy, laid-back vibe.
Why It’s Special: Café Tangerinn is popular among writers, artists, and creative souls who are drawn to its quiet charm. It’s a place where you can sip your tea or coffee, read a book, or meet fellow travelers interested in Tangier’s rich cultural scene.
See reviews of Café Tangerinn on TripAdvisor
Café el Kasbah: A Hidden Gem with a View
For a taste of traditional Moroccan hospitality with an incredible view, Café el Kasbah is a fantastic choice. Located in the Kasbah, this café offers a panoramic view of the medina and the coastline, making it a hidden gem for those who know where to find it.
What to Expect: The café is cozy and features traditional Moroccan decor, including intricate tile work and cushioned seating. You can enjoy a pot of mint tea while admiring the view or relax with a Moroccan pastry as you take in the scenery. Café el Kasbah is an excellent place to unwind and escape the busier areas of the city.
Why It’s Special: Café el Kasbah’s secluded location and scenic view make it a special find for those who want a peaceful break. Its unique perspective on Tangier’s old city and coastline provides a beautiful backdrop for relaxation and reflection.
Café Roxy: A Taste of Local Life
For an authentic Tangier café experience, Café Roxy offers a true slice of local life. Located near the medina, this café is known for its unpretentious charm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals, which makes it an ideal spot for visitors who want to experience Tangier as the locals do.
What to Expect: Café Roxy serves strong coffee, refreshing mint tea, and simple snacks. It’s a great place to sit and observe the everyday routines of Tangier residents. The café’s straightforward decor and friendly service add to its appeal as an authentic Moroccan hangout.
Why It’s Special: Café Roxy’s charm lies in its simplicity and local feel. For visitors who want to step away from the tourist trail and experience Tangier’s daily life, this café provides a genuine experience that’s as much about the people as it is about the tea and coffee.
Enjoying Tangier’s Café Culture
Tangier’s traditional cafes are more than just places to get a drink—they’re windows into the city’s soul. Each café offers a different perspective on Tangier’s unique blend of Moroccan, European, and Bohemian influences. From the scenic views at Café Hafa to the lively vibe of Café Central and the creative spirit of Café Tangerinn, Tangier’s cafes allow you to experience the city at a slower, more relaxed pace.
Whether you’re drawn to Tangier’s historic charm or its modern-day vibrancy, the city’s cafes invite you to connect with its culture, history, and people. So, as you explore Tangier, make sure to take a break, order a mint tea or a coffee, and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of this extraordinary city.
