The Petit Socco, officially the Place Souk Dakhli, is the small square at the heart of the Tangier medina that once served as the gathering place of the International Zone's bohemian and diplomatic crowd. Writers including Paul Bowles, William S. Burroughs and Tennessee Williams knew its cafes, and Cafe Central on the square still has a terrace where mint tea costs a few dirhams. The surrounding streets contain small hotels, money changers, bakeries and the Rue es Siaghin, which climbs to the Kasbah. The square is small and busy, with a lively atmosphere through the evening, and its cafes are mostly visited by men, though visitors of all kinds are served. Travellers use it as a hub for the medina, with the Great Mosque, the American Legation and the Kasbah each within a short walk.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open at all times; cafes about 7am-midnight |
| Typical visit | 30-45 minutes |
| Best time | Late afternoon |
| Getting there | Walk down the Rue es Siaghin from the Grand Socco in 10 minutes |
| Address | Place Souk Dakhli (Petit Socco), Medina, Tangier 90000 |
Location
Place Souk Dakhli (Petit Socco), Medina, Tangier 90000
35.7873, -5.8118 View on map
Highlights
- Cafe Central terrace for mint tea
- Literary history of the International Zone
- Hub of the Rue es Siaghin
- Short walk to the Great Mosque and Legation
Tips for visiting
- Order mint tea at the terrace; prices are around MAD 10-15 (~$1.08-1.61).
- Mid-afternoon is quieter than the evening rush.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash in the surrounding alleys.
- Decline unsolicited offers of hashish or guiding.
- Combine with the American Legation, a five-minute walk.
When to visit
Late afternoon for tea and people-watching.
Accessibility
The square is small and cobbled, with uneven surfaces and steps at some cafes.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Petit Socco famous?
Mid-20th-century writers and artists of the International Zone met in its cafes, and it remains the old medina centre.
Is it open to visitors in the evening?
Yes; the square is busy until late, but the surrounding side lanes are quiet and poorly lit.