Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima
Tetouan
Andalusian white city beneath the Rif.
Tetouan at a glance
- Region
- Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima
- Province or prefecture
- Tetouan (province)
- Status
- Province capital
- Population
- 380,787 (2014 census)
- Area
- Not available
- Elevation
- 50 m
- Coordinates
- 35.578, -5.368
- Postal code
- 93000
- Phone area code
- +212 539
- Time zone
- Africa/Casablanca (see note on Ramadan)
- Local names
- Tétouan (French) · تطوان (Arabic)
- Best time to visit
- April to June and September to October
Population is from the 2014 census (HCP) and is being updated. Climate figures are indicative regional profiles. Confirm details with official sources before relying on them.
About Tetouan
Tetouan's whitewashed medina, with strong Andalusian influence, sits below Jbel Dersa. The Mediterranean beaches of Martil and Cabo Negro are a short drive away.
History
Refugees from Andalusia rebuilt Tetouan in the late 15th century. It was the capital of the Spanish protectorate in northern Morocco from 1913 to 1956.
Things to see in Tetouan
- Medina of Tetouan
- Place Hassan II and the Royal Palace
- Archaeological Museum
- Martil and Cabo Negro beaches
UNESCO World Heritage: Medina of Tetouan (formerly known as Titawin) (1997).
Climate and best time to visit
Mediterranean. Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The north is the rainiest part of Morocco.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to October. Indicative regional profile.
Getting to Tetouan
- By air
- Tetouan Sania Ramel Airport (TTU), about 5 km away.
- By train
- There is no ONCF station; buses and grand taxis link to Tangier, Chefchaouen and Martil.
- By bus
- CTM, Supratours and regional bus companies serve most routes; grand taxis cover shorter hops. Check current schedules.
- By road
- Reached by national roads and, on many routes, the motorway network. Check road conditions in winter, especially in mountain areas.
Economy
Crafts, fishing, trade, tourism and nearby industrial zones.
Food and drink
Andalusian-influenced pastries and tagines.
Festivals and events
Tetouan hosts a Mediterranean cinema festival; check current dates.
Where to stay
Options are mostly mid-range hotels and family-run guesthouses. In peak season and holidays it is wise to reserve in advance.