Key Takeaways:
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Tétouan offers a vibrant mix of Andalusian, Arab, and Berber cultures set against the Rif Mountains.
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Its historic medina, whitewashed walls, and artisan heritage make it a timeless destination to explore all year long.
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Whether you’re hiking, tasting street food, or exploring museums, Tétouan invites discovery in every season.
Tétouan is a hidden gem of northern Morocco, nestled between the Mediterranean coast and the foothills of the Rif Mountains. Known as the “White Dove” for its gleaming white medina, the city has long been a cultural bridge between Morocco and Andalusia. Once a refuge for Spanish Muslims and Jews during the Reconquista, Tétouan developed a unique fusion of Moroccan and Spanish styles still felt today in its art, food, and architecture.
Visitors love Tétouan for its peaceful rhythm, rich history, and lack of tourist crowds. Its medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to traditional leatherworkers, mosaic makers, and spice merchants. Add in natural landscapes, vibrant festivals, and a proud local culture, and you’ve got a destination that reveals something special in every season. Here are 10 amazing things to do in Tétouan year-round.
Table of Contents
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Get Lost in the Tétouan Medina
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Visit the Ethnographic Museum at the Royal Palace
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Hike the Trails of the Rif Mountains
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Explore the Artisanal School of Tétouan
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Relax at Martil Beach Just Minutes Away
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Discover the Modernist Architecture Downtown
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Attend the Tétouan International Mediterranean Film Festival
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Visit the Archaeological Museum of Tétouan
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Enjoy Traditional Street Food at Souk El Hout
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Take a Day Trip to Chefchaouen, the Blue City
1. Get Lost in the Tétouan Medina
The Tétouan Medina is one of the most authentic and untouched in all of Morocco. Recognized by UNESCO, its narrow alleys and whitewashed walls are filled with shops selling textiles, spices, jewelry, and leather goods. You’ll hear the echo of artisans hammering metal, smell mint tea steeping nearby, and pass donkeys carrying goods through streets too tight for cars. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s a living museum of culture and tradition.
The medina is open all year, and the experience changes with the light, seasons, and energy of the people. Early mornings are peaceful and great for photography, while afternoons bring more activity and buzz. You can hire a local guide for deeper insight or just let your curiosity lead the way. No matter how many times you enter, you’ll always find something new.
2. Visit the Ethnographic Museum at the Royal Palace
Housed inside a former guard tower of the Royal Palace, the Ethnographic Museum (Musée Archéologique et Ethnographique) provides a rare glimpse into the life and customs of northern Morocco. Exhibits include traditional clothing, tools, household items, musical instruments, and wedding attire from the surrounding Rif region. The building itself is just as fascinating, with Moorish arches and tiled courtyards.
Open year-round, the museum offers an intimate and educational break from the bustle of the medina. While photography isn’t always allowed, the artifacts speak for themselves. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the culture and craft that defines Tétouan. It’s a small but enriching stop that helps connect the past to what you see on the streets today.
3. Hike the Trails of the Rif Mountains
Just beyond the city limits lie the stunning trails of the Rif Mountains, perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking fresh air and panoramic views. Whether you choose a guided trek or venture out solo, you’ll find routes leading through olive groves, pine forests, and Berber villages. The scenery changes with the seasons, from spring wildflowers to golden autumn slopes.
Hiking here is possible year-round thanks to the region’s mild Mediterranean climate. Some trails are gentle and family-friendly, while others offer more challenging climbs and breathtaking overlooks. Pack water, sturdy shoes, and your sense of adventure. Even a short walk in the hills around Tétouan will show you another side of Morocco—quiet, earthy, and full of life.
4. Explore the Artisanal School of Tétouan
Tétouan is famous for its dedication to preserving Moroccan craftsmanship, and nowhere is that more evident than at the École des Arts et Métiers Traditionnels. This artisan school trains students in tilework, woodcarving, embroidery, and leathercraft, all rooted in centuries-old techniques. Visitors are welcome to tour the school and witness these ancient skills being passed on to a new generation.
The school is open to visitors on select days, and guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the work and history. Watching young artists at work in such a culturally important setting is inspiring and gives you insight into the future of Moroccan design. If you’re lucky, you might be able to purchase handmade pieces directly from the source. It’s one of the most enriching and visually satisfying experiences in the city.
5. Relax at Martil Beach Just Minutes Away
A short 15-minute drive from Tétouan brings you to Martil Beach, a popular coastal escape for locals and visitors alike. With its wide, sandy shore, gentle waves, and palm-lined promenade, Martil is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or just taking in the Mediterranean breeze. In summer, it buzzes with activity, while in the off-season, it’s calm and perfect for peaceful walks.
Restaurants and cafés along the water serve up fresh seafood and mint tea, with beautiful views of the sea and nearby hills. Beachgoers can rent umbrellas and chairs or simply lay out on the sand. Whether you want a day of relaxation or a cool place to dip your toes, Martil Beach adds a coastal contrast to Tétouan’s historic charm. And with year-round sunshine, it’s never a bad time to go.
6. Discover the Modernist Architecture Downtown
While Tétouan is known for its historic medina, its downtown area offers a surprising array of Spanish-influenced modernist and Art Deco architecture. These buildings date back to the early 20th century, during the Spanish protectorate period, and include grand arcades, tiled facades, and wide boulevards. One of the most iconic structures is the Teatro Español, which still hosts performances and cultural events.
You can take a self-guided walking tour or simply stroll down Avenue Mohamed V to admire the blend of modern and Mediterranean styles. Many of these buildings house government offices, cafés, and shops, making it easy to stop and linger. The contrast between old and new adds depth to the city’s character. It’s a reminder that Tétouan’s story includes both tradition and evolution.
7. Attend the Tétouan International Mediterranean Film Festival
Each year, Tétouan hosts the International Mediterranean Film Festival, which draws filmmakers, actors, and cinema lovers from across the Mediterranean region. The festival features screenings of indie and feature films, panel discussions, and red-carpet events in venues like the Spanish Theater. It’s a rare opportunity to engage with global cinema in an intimate, culturally rich setting.
Held in March, the festival has become one of Morocco’s most respected arts events. Even if you’re not a film buff, the buzz around town during festival week is contagious, with art shows, pop-up markets, and live music often adding to the celebration. It’s a great time to visit if you want to see Tétouan alive with creativity and international flair.
8. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Tétouan
Located near the Royal Palace, the Archaeological Museum of Tétouan showcases artifacts from the Roman, Punic, and Islamic periods uncovered in northern Morocco. Highlights include mosaic floors from the ancient city of Lixus, Berber tools, coins, pottery, and religious relics. The museum’s architecture itself feels like stepping back in time, with arched doorways and serene inner courtyards.
Open year-round, the museum provides important context for Morocco’s layered history—especially for visitors traveling further toward Tangier or Chefchaouen. It’s a quiet, informative space ideal for anyone interested in archaeology or anthropology. With exhibits in both Arabic and French, it’s accessible and educational. Plus, it’s usually uncrowded, allowing for a more thoughtful experience.
9. Enjoy Traditional Street Food at Souk El Hout
Souk El Hout, or the fish market, is one of the liveliest corners of Tétouan, offering more than just seafood. You’ll find vendors selling fresh bread, fried sardines, grilled meats, spicy lentils, and Moroccan pastries. Locals gather here throughout the day, and it’s one of the best places to sample authentic, affordable street food.
Whether you grab a quick bite to go or pull up a stool next to the vendor, the flavors are bold, comforting, and true to the region. The market is busiest in the mornings and evenings, and many stalls operate daily. Be ready for sensory overload—in the best way. For foodies and curious eaters, it’s a highlight of Tétouan’s everyday culture.
10. Take a Day Trip to Chefchaouen, the Blue City
Just under two hours from Tétouan lies the dreamy town of Chefchaouen, famous for its blue-washed alleyways and mountain views. The journey itself is scenic, winding through the Rif Mountains. Once in town, you can explore handicraft shops, hike up to the Spanish Mosque for views, or relax in the main square with a mint tea.
While Chefchaouen is growing in popularity, visiting from Tétouan gives you a more relaxed, local launch point than from larger cities. Many hotels and agencies offer organized tours, or you can go by shared taxi or bus. It’s a stunning day trip that complements Tétouan perfectly—pairing coastal culture with mountain mystique.
What to do if you have kids?
Tétouan is very child-friendly, with plenty of open plazas, beaches, and gentle mountain paths for families to enjoy. Kids love exploring the medina’s winding alleys and spotting animals like donkeys and cats along the way. A visit to Martil Beach or a hike in the Rif Mountains offers fresh air and room to roam. Museums like the Ethnographic or Archaeological Museum provide compact, manageable learning moments. For downtime, many cafés offer shaded outdoor seating where families can relax and enjoy fresh juices or sweets.
Where can I find free events in Tetouan Morocco taking place this weekend?
To find free cultural events, concerts, outdoor markets, or local festivals happening in Tétouan this weekend, head to PlanMyWeekend.ai. The platform curates alcohol-free, family-friendly, and budget-conscious happenings in your area. Whether it’s a rooftop concert, public art exhibition, or open-air storytelling session in the medina, PlanMyWeekend.ai helps you uncover the best of what’s going on. Stay updated, explore more, and make the most of your time in Tétouan—without spending a dirham.
Final Thoughts
Tétouan is a city that captures the essence of Morocco—quietly, authentically, and beautifully. With its blend of Andalusian elegance, Berber resilience, and Mediterranean charm, it’s a place for deep cultural connection and relaxed discovery. From ancient medinas and artisan schools to sunny beaches and forested trails, it delivers a full and enriching travel experience all year long. Whether you’re a slow traveler, a curious explorer, or a first-time visitor to Morocco, Tétouan invites you to linger, learn, and fall in love with its many layers.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
