Tetouan | A Romantic White Haven with Spanish Flair

Tetouan is not a typical tourist city, which makes it a vibrant yet unpretentious place. Nestled quietly by the Mediterranean, it feels like a forgotten gem, overshadowed by the nearby "Chefchaouen" to the north and "Tangier" to the south. Tetouan is steeped in the love and conflict of the Moors. Its narrow streets, white European-style houses, wooden shutters, wrought-iron French balconies, and towering beige Catholic churches make it hard to believe this is Africa. Even the outdoor cafes resemble those in Spanish and Portuguese towns, except for one notable difference—most of the patrons are men, with few women seen except for tourists. When the Moors were expelled from Granada by the Spanish, Tetouan became their refuge. Over the centuries, the love-hate relationship between Spain and the Moors played out here, making Tetouan a melting pot of Moorish and Spanish cultures. 👣 Recommended City Walk Route: 📍 First Stop: Feddan Park From here, you can capture stunning views of the white Medina without even entering it. The white city walls, interspersed with green vegetation, create a picturesque scene. The central building in the park is also a great spot for photos—climb up and snap away! 📍 Second Stop: Moulay El Mehdi Square This roundabout is striking, especially with the vibrant yellow buildings nearby! Don’t forget to admire the scenic streets and the breathtaking mountain views in the background 🌄. Nearby, there’s an adorable house featured in the last photo of this guide—definitely worth stopping to appreciate its charm. 📍 Third Stop: Royal Palace Although you can only admire it from afar 👀, the surrounding cafes are worth a visit! Grab a seat by the square, relax, and enjoy a leisurely moment ☕. 📍 Fourth Stop: Dar El Oddi Museum This is a small but exquisite museum 🎨, perfect for history enthusiasts to explore. If museums aren’t your thing, it’s still worth passing by, as it’s located along a must-see route. 📍 Fifth Stop: Bab Al Okla This is the entrance to the Medina 🏰! Snap some photos at the gate or venture inside to explore the charming alleys and unique shops—it’s definitely worth a visit. 📍 Sixth Stop: Royal Palace Square The Royal Palace Square has witnessed the city’s historical changes and has become a cultural symbol of Tetouan. The flocks of pigeons here symbolize peace and harmony, adding to the city’s charm. Tall palm trees sway gently in the breeze, and the vintage street lamps exude an old-world charm. One side features ancient city walls, bearing the weight of history. The other side showcases white buildings, exuding a rich exotic vibe. Locals stroll leisurely, either walking or cycling, painting a serene picture of life. ⏰ Best Travel Times ✔ March–June & September–November: The most comfortable weather. ✔ July–August: Though hot, it’s peak beach season, and the coastline is lively 🌞. 💡 Travel Tips ✔ Tetouan’s old town is relatively off the beaten path, with fewer tourists—ideal for slow travelers! ✔ The city is heavily influenced by Spanish culture, and many locals speak Spanish. Knowing Spanish can be very helpful! 🇪🇸 ✔ Best paired with trips to Tangier and Chefchaouen—plan for 2–3 days to explore!