Tangier in December: the Gateway to Africa in Winter
One hour by ferry from Spain, Tangier is the easiest Moroccan destination for a short year-end break. December is mild but changeable there: here is how to make the most of it.
Tangier in December means around 17 °C by day and 10 °C at night, with mild but rainy weather: pack a waterproof and alternate medina days with indoor visits. The easterly wind (levante) can occasionally disrupt ferries across the Strait, so check your crossing the day before. Tangier is the ideal base for Chefchaouen, 2-2.5 hours by road (guided day trip from €37-43), and for Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules (from €28). The Tarifa-Tanger Ville ferry takes about 1 hour and arrives in the city centre. Christmas and New Year draw many Spanish and European travellers: riads with Strait views fill up early for the holidays.
Plan your stay
The guides and experiences our readers book most for this destination.
Things to Do in Tangier in December
The most-booked trips from Tangier:
| Experience | Rating | Reviews | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tangier: Chefchaouen day trip with a local guide | 4.8 | 3,717 | €43 |
| Tangier: Cape Spartel, Caves of Hercules and camel ride | 4.6 | 1,468 | €28 |
| Tangier: sunset, tea, camel ride and Caves of Hercules | 4.9 | 813 | €30 |
| Tangier: Chefchaouen and the Akchour waterfalls | 4.7 | 505 | €67 |
Ratings, reviews and prices taken from GetYourGuide; they may change.
See things to do in Tangier in December· GetYourGuideFree cancellation up to 24h before on most activities · the best time slots sell out first in high seasonReserve now, pay later on many activities
Compare activities on ViatorYou will be redirected to our partner Viator.- Medina and kasbah: the Kasbah Museum, the Petit Socco and the historic cafés. See things to do in Tangier and Tangier in 2 days.
- Cape Spartel: where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. See Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules.
- Blue city: see Chefchaouen from Tangier and Chefchaouen in December.
- Arriving by sea: see the Spain-Morocco ferry.
Where to Stay in Tangier in December
The kasbah for riads with terraces over the Strait (check the heating), or the city centre and corniche for modern hotels, more practical on rainy days. See where to stay in Tangier and the best hotels in Tangier.
See riads and hotels in Tangier· Booking.comFree cancellation on many properties · the best-rated places fill up firstNo prepayment needed on many offers: lock in your room now
Compare Tangier hotels on Expedia· ExpediaFree cancellation on many properties · the best-rated places fill up firstNo prepayment needed on many offers: lock in your room now
Compare flights and hotels on Trip.com· Trip.com
Book your arrival transferYou will be redirected to our partner GetTransfer.See also when to visit Tangier, arriving at Tangier airport and day trips from Tangier.
FAQ — Tangier in December
What is the weather like in Tangier in December?
Do ferries to Tangier run in winter?
How long is the Tarifa-Tangier ferry?
Can you visit Chefchaouen from Tangier in December?
Is Tangier lively for New Year?
In Short
- 17 °C by day, mild but rainy.
- Chefchaouen and Cape Spartel as day trips.
- Check the ferry when the levante blows.
