Have you ever stood at a crossroads in your travels? That moment when one journey ends and another begins? The stretch of Moroccan coast between Asilah and Tangier is exactly that—a beautiful bridge between two incredible worlds.
I remember my first trip along this coast. The Atlantic breeze whipped through my hair as we left the sleepy artistry of Asilah behind. Ahead lay Tangier—a city of legends, spies, and stories. That short drive? It became one of my favorite memories of Morocco.
Let me tell you everything about making that journey yourself. From the charming blue-and-white streets of Asilah to the bustling energy of Tangier’s Ibn Battouta Airport. We’ll cover the best routes, hidden gems, and insider tips that’ll make your trip unforgettable .
Why Travel from Asilah to Tangier?
This isn’t just a transfer. It’s a transition.
You’re moving from Morocco’s artistic soul to its international gateway. Asilah whispers with creativity—its white walls adorned with fresh murals each year. Tangier hums with energy—a city that’s inspired writers, musicians, and artists for decades .
The journey itself takes less than an hour. But what an hour! The road hugs the coast. one side, rolling Moroccan hills. On the other, the sparkling Atlantic. clear days, you might even spot Spain in the distance .
Here’s why this route matters:
Convenience is king. Ibn Battouta Airport connects Tangier to Europe and beyond. Flying out? This transfer gets you there stress-free. Just arrived? Asilah is the perfect first stop to decompress before diving into Morocco .
Scenic beauty comes standard. Unlike boring highway drives elsewhere, this route offers genuine photo opportunities. Cap Spartel, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, sits just a short detour away .
Cultural significance runs deep. You’re traveling through a region shaped by Phoenicians, Romans, Portuguese, and Berbers. Every kilometer tells a story .
Travel Options & Pricing for Your Asilah to Tangier Journey
Let’s talk logistics. How exactly do you get from Asilah to Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport?
Private Transfer Services
This is my top recommendation. Why? Door-to-door service, air conditioning, and zero stress about luggage. Professional drivers know the roads, speak multiple languages, and often share fascinating local stories.
Based on current options from trusted operators like Morocco Spartel Tours, here’s what you can expect :
| Vehicle Type | Passengers | Travel Time | Price Range (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy Sedan | 1-3 | 37-45 min | $58-$70 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Business Luxury | 1-3 | 37 min | $58-$82 | Executive travelers |
| Premium Executive | 1-3 | 37 min | $117 | Special occasions |
| Minivan | 4-6 | 37-39 min | $70-$77 | Small families |
| Premium Minivan | 4-5 | 37-39 min | $76-$100 | Extra comfort |
| Minicoach | Up to 17 | 37-39 min | $105-$108 | Large groups |
The distance is approximately 38-49 kilometers depending on your exact starting point in Asilah and route taken .
Local Taxi Option
Grand taxis (the larger Mercedes sedans) operate between cities. They’re cheaper but less predictable .
Estimated local fare: Around 347 Moroccan Dirham (approximately $35 USD)
Travel time: 45 minutes in light traffic
The catch? You’ll need to negotiate. Drivers may wait until the car fills with other passengers. For airport transfers where timing matters, pre-booked private transfers give you peace of mind .
Train Plus Taxi Combo
Want a budget-friendly adventure? Take the train from Asilah to Tangier Ville station, then grab a taxi to the airport .
Train time: Approximately 32 minutes
Train cost: $14-$30 depending on class
Taxi from station to airport: Additional $80-$250 (varies wildly, negotiate firmly!)
Total journey: About 66 minutes
This works best if you’re not in a hurry and enjoy train travel. But with luggage and a flight to catch? I’d stick with the direct transfer.
Driving Yourself
Renting a car gives you freedom. The drive is straightforward—about 31 minutes for 35.5 kilometers . Gas costs around $44-$63 .
Consider this: Moroccan driving styles differ from Western norms. City traffic can be chaotic. Parking at the airport adds expense. Unless you’re planning extended road trips afterward, hiring a driver makes more sense .
Best Attractions in Asilah
Asilah captured my heart instantly. It’s smaller than Chefchaouen, less touristy than Marrakech, and absolutely enchanting. Here’s what you absolutely cannot miss :
The Medina Murals
Every August, the Asilah Arts Festival transforms this town. Artists from around the world descend upon Asilah. They paint over old murals with fresh creations .
The result? An open-air gallery that changes yearly. Wander the narrow streets. Turn corners to discover abstract paintings, realistic portraits, and whimsical designs. It’s like walking through a living, breathing art exhibition .
Ramparts and Atlantic Views
The Portuguese built these fortress walls in the 15th century . Today, you can walk along them. Watch the Atlantic waves crash below. Time it for sunset, and you’ll understand why poets romanticize this coast.
Blue and White Architecture
People call Asilah “Little Greece” . The comparison fits. Buildings glow white, trimmed in sky blue and soft yellow. It’s impossibly photogenic. Every alley begs to be photographed .
The Beaches
Asilah sits on the Atlantic. Its beaches stretch for miles. Paradise Beach, just south of town, offers calm waters. Perfect for swimming when the weather warms up .
Shopping Without the Hustle
Here’s what makes Asilah special: vendors won’t harass you. Unlike Marrakech’s souks, you can browse peacefully. Browse ceramics, textiles, and paintings by local artists. The Thursday market brings farmers and artisans together for authentic local shopping .
Best Restaurants in Asilah
Hungry? Asilah serves up delicious Moroccan coastal cuisine. Let me guide you to the best tables :
Restaurant Oceano Casa Pepe
Fresh seafood steals the show here. Their seafood tagine? Unforgettable. Locals pack this place, which tells you everything. Sit outside when weather permits.
Restaurant Port XIV
Lamb couscous done right. Rich, tender, and fragrant with spices. The terrace overlooks the water. Dinner here feels special without breaking the bank.
Casa Garcia
Spanish influences meet Moroccan ingredients. Try the grilled fish platters. Simple preparation lets quality ingredients shine.
Local Bakeries
Don’t skip the pastries. Moroccan sweets combine honey, almonds, and flaky pastry. Grab some for a picnic on the ramparts.
Best Hotels in Asilah
Where should you rest your head in Asilah? Here are my top picks :
Dar Manara
This riad sits right on the water. Waking up to Atlantic waves? Pure magic. The rooms blend traditional decor with modern comfort. Their terrace is perfect for evening mint tea.
Hotel Al Alba
Modern, clean, and central. Great value for money. The staff goes above normal helpful. Located an easy walk from everything.
Maison de Vacances Berbère
For something different, try this Berber-inspired guesthouse. Warm hospitality defines the experience. Home-cooked dinners available if you ask.
Budget Options
Several small guesthouses offer beds from around $30 nightly . They’re basic but clean. Perfect for travelers watching their wallet.
Best Attractions in Tangier
Now let’s talk Tangier. This city deserves days of exploration. Even with limited time, hit these highlights :
The Kasbah and Medina
Start at the top—the Kasbah fortress. Wander down through winding alleyways. The Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures houses stunning Roman mosaics. Don’t miss the Venus mosaic from Volubilis .
Wind your way to Petit Socco. This small square pulses with medina life. Historic cafes line the edges. Grab mint tea and watch Tangier flow past .
American Legation Museum
Here’s something unique: the only US National Historic Landmark outside American soil. This building tells fascinating stories of early US-Morocco relations. Look for “Zohra”—James McBey’s portrait nicknamed the Moroccan Mona Lisa .
Cafe Hafa
Opened in 1921, this cafe clings to cliffs overlooking the sea. The Rolling Stones hung out here. Beat poets found inspiration in these views. Grab a seat on the terraces. Order mint tea. Stay for sunset. Trust me on this .
Cap Spartel
The northwestern tip of Africa. Stand here and watch the Atlantic meet the Mediterranean. The lighthouse dates back to 1864. On clear days, Spain appears across the strait .
Hercules Caves
Legend says Hercules rested here after separating Europe from Africa. One cave opening resembles Africa reversed. Tourist? A bit. Worth seeing? Absolutely .
The Corniche
Tangier modernized its waterfront beautifully. Walk the 5-kilometer promenade. Watch ferries come and go. The new Marina Bay offers trendy restaurants and lounges .
Contemporary Art Scene
Tangier’s creative energy continues today. Gallery Conil showcases new Moroccan artists. Foundation Pour la Photographie hosts excellent exhibitions in a gorgeous villa .
Best Restaurants in Tangier
Tangier’s food scene excites me. Traditional Moroccan meets international influences. Here’s where to eat :
Saveur de Poisson
Chef’s secret? No menu. Just fish—prepared perfectly. Start with spicy harissa and squid tagine. Follow with grilled catch of the day. Cash only. Worth every dirham .
Villa Mabrouka’s L’Orangerie
Yves Saint Laurent’s former home now houses this stunning restaurant. Reserve ahead. Dress nicely. The Morocco-meets-Mediterranean cuisine matches the gorgeous setting .
Gran Cafe de Paris
Bourne Ultimatum fans recognize this spot. It’s pure Tangier history. Great for breakfast or people-watching over coffee .
Restaurant Al Maimouni
Rooftop dining with medina views. Traditional Moroccan food done exceptionally well. The pastilla here is fantastic.
Chiringuito
On the marina. Trendy, lively, and fun. Perfect for cocktails and lighter fare. Great spot to watch sunset over the water .
Best Hotels in Tangier
Where to stay in Tangier? Options range from historic to ultra-modern :
Villa Mabrouka
Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé’s former home. Now a stunning hotel. If you can splurge, do it here. The gardens alone are worth it .
El Minzah Hotel
Classic Tangier luxury. The pool area feels like an oasis. Central location near the medina. Old Hollywood glamour lives here.
Nord Pinus Tangier
Rooftop bar overlooking the ocean. Chic design. Perfect for sundowners before dinner. Their location puts you in the heart of things .
La Tangerina
Small boutique hotel in the Kasbah. Each room unique. Personal service. The terrace views will steal your heart.
Budget Options
Several hostels and guesthouses cater to budget travelers. Check areas near Place de France for convenience and value.
Pro Travel Tips for Your Asilah to Tangier Journey
Let me share hard-won wisdom. These tips will smooth your travels :
Best Time to Book
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer perfect weather. Mild temperatures, blue skies, fewer crowds. Summer brings heat and more tourists. Winter can be rainy but also peaceful .
Book your airport transfer at least 24 hours ahead. During festivals (August in Asilah, September jazz in Tangier), book even earlier .
Local Customs Matter
Morocco is Muslim. Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered in public. Remove shoes entering homes or mosques. Use your right hand for eating and greeting .
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight. It shows respect for those fasting .
Language Tips
Arabic and Berber are official languages. French is widely spoken. In tourist areas, English works. Learn basic phrases: “Salam Alaikum” (hello), “Shukraan” (thank you), “Bikam?” (how much?). Locals appreciate the effort .
Money Matters
Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the currency. It’s closed—can’t exchange outside Morocco. Change money at official banks or exchange offices. Hotels offer worse rates .
Credit cards work in hotels and nicer restaurants. Souks and small shops want cash. ATMs exist but carry backup cash .
Bargain in markets but respectfully. Start at half the asking price. Meet somewhere in the middle. Walk away if it doesn’t feel right .
Packing Essentials
Layers are your friend. Mornings and evenings cool down even in summer. Sunscreen and sunglasses essential. Comfortable walking shoes non-negotiable. Scarf handy for mosque visits .
Airport Information
Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG) is modern and manageable. Small but adequate. Cafes, shops, and currency exchange available. Allow 2 hours for international flights.
Special Offers
Some transfer services offer discounts for round trips or extended waits. If you’re continuing to other Moroccan cities after Tangier, ask about packages. Sometimes booking a driver for multiple days saves money over individual trips .
Book Your Ride Today!
Ready for your Moroccan adventure? The journey from Asilah to Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport deserves comfort and reliability. Don’t leave your transfer to chance.
Book your private transfer now. Lock in your price. Guarantee your ride. Arrive relaxed, refreshed, and ready for your flight .
Book your Asilah to Tangier Airport transfer here
Your Moroccan journey awaits. From the artistic streets of Asilah to the legendary energy of Tangier, every moment counts. Make the time between them just as memorable.
Safe travels, friend. The road between these two magical places? It’s waiting for you.
Have questions about your Asilah to Tangier transfer? Drop them in the comments below. I’ve made this drive dozens of times and love helping fellow travelers navigate Morocco’s beautiful coastline.
