Morocco · City Guide

Tetouan

The White Dove

A historic northern city known for its beautiful medina, Andalusian heritage and nearby Mediterranean beaches.

MoroccoUpdated Aug 14, 2026

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City guide

Getting to know Tetouan

Tetouan is a historic northern Moroccan city with a distinctive Andalusian influence. Its UNESCO-listed medina, traditional architecture and proximity to Mediterranean beaches make it an interesting base for exploring the region.

Set in northern Morocco between the Rif Mountains and the Mediterranean coast, Tetouan is known for its well-preserved medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by centuries of Andalusian influence following the arrival of Muslim and Jewish refugees from Spain. The old town's whitewashed houses, intricate ironwork and tiled courtyards reflect this blended Spanish-Moroccan heritage, distinguishing it from medinas further south. The city also served as the capital of the Spanish protectorate in the 20th century, leaving behind a distinct colonial-era new town alongside the historic core. Nearby beaches along the Mediterranean coast and the mountainous Rif countryside add to the area's appeal for day trips.

Plan your visit

What to know before visiting

A few practical details to help you decide when to visit, where to stay and how to make the most of your time.

When to visit

Choose the right season

Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring the medina and surrounding area, with mild temperatures and less rainfall than winter. Summer is warm and generally dry, making it a popular time to combine the city with nearby Mediterranean beaches, though it can get busy with domestic tourism. Winter brings cooler temperatures and more rain, with the nearby Rif Mountains sometimes seeing snow, though the city itself rarely does.

Travel calendarTypical conditions

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Recommended

Other months

Recommended

April, May, June, September, October

Recommended months based on typical travel conditions and experiences.

Getting around

The medina is best explored on foot, as its narrow streets are not accessible by car. Petit taxis are widely available and inexpensive for getting around the newer parts of the city or reaching the medina's edges. For day trips to nearby beaches, the Rif Mountains or towns like Chefchaouen, a rental car, grand taxi or organized tour is generally more practical.

Where to stay

Staying near or within the medina puts travelers close to the main historic sights, markets and traditional riads, offering a more immersive experience. The newer town, built during the Spanish protectorate era, offers more modern hotels and easier access by car, and can be a practical choice for travelers prioritizing comfort or planning day trips outside the city. The best option depends on whether the focus is on the historic center or convenience for wider exploration.

How long to stay

A single day is generally enough to see the medina's main sights and get a feel for the city, making it a reasonable stop on a longer northern Morocco itinerary. Staying an extra day allows time for a more relaxed pace through the medina, a visit to nearby beaches, or a day trip into the Rif Mountains or to Chefchaouen. Tetouan works well as a stop between Tangier, Chefchaouen and the northern Mediterranean coast.

What affects prices

Why costs can change here

Prices usually vary with season, neighborhood and the type of service you choose.
Tourist-heavy areas often cost more than calmer local spots.
Comparing a few options before booking helps you avoid paying too much.

Arrival help

Helpful first-day tips for Tetouan

Have a little cash ready for transport, food and smaller purchases.
Confirm transport costs before leaving the airport or starting a ride.
A local SIM or eSIM makes your first day smoother.

Explore

Things to see in Tetouan

A few places and experiences worth knowing about.

Tetouan Medina

A UNESCO-listed historic medina with whitewashed buildings.

Royal Palace Square

A central square at the entrance to the historic medina.

Martil Beach

A nearby Mediterranean beach popular during the warmer months.

Useful tips

Before spending in Tetouan

• Tetouan can be combined easily with Chefchaouen and northern coastal destinations.

• Summer accommodation near the coast can become considerably more expensive.

• The medina is best explored on foot.

• Compare prices before purchasing handmade products.

Keep exploring

Other Moroccan cities

View all

Chefchaouen

The Blue City

Tangier

Where Two Seas Meet

Al Hoceima

Mediterranean Escape

Prices are typical estimates and may vary depending on season, quality, provider and other circumstances. Use them as a general reference rather than a guaranteed price.