The Kasbah occupies the highest point of the medina, around the Dar el Makhzen palace (now a museum) and the Place du Mechouar. Its quiet lanes hold art galleries, design boutiques, antique shops and a small number of expatriate-run shops, giving the quarter a more curated feel than the lower medina souks. Typical stock includes Moroccan ceramics, kaftans and textiles, framed vintage photographs of Tangier, antique brass and furniture, and contemporary design. Prices are generally higher than in the souks but items are of consistent quality, and several shops state fixed prices. Bargaining is gentle where prices are not marked. Cards are more widely accepted here than in the lower medina. The quarter is also valuable for its terrace views over the Strait of Gibraltar and for the Kasbah Museum, so shopping can be combined with sightseeing in one morning.
| Hours | Daily about 10am-7pm; some galleries closed Monday |
|---|---|
| Price | MAD 50-5,000 (~$5.33-533) |
| Address | Place du Mechouar and Rue Ben Abbou area, Kasbah, Tangier 90000 |
Location
Place du Mechouar and Rue Ben Abbou area, Kasbah, Tangier 90000
35.7885, -5.8124 View on map
Highlights
- Galleries and design boutiques near Place du Mechouar
- Antiques and vintage Tangier photographs
- Kasbah Museum in the Dar el Makhzen palace
- Terrace views over the Strait of Gibraltar
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the morning, when galleries are open and the terrace light is clear.
- Ask for a written receipt for antiques and framed artwork.
- Compare prices with the lower medina before buying ceramics.
- Some boutiques close on Mondays or midday; confirm before a special trip.
- Combine shopping with the Kasbah Museum visit.
When to visit
Morning or late afternoon; spring and autumn.
Accessibility
Lanes are paved but sloping and uneven, with steps; the Place du Mechouar is the most level area.
Frequently asked questions
What is sold in the Kasbah of Tangier?
Antiques, galleries, design boutiques, vintage photographs, ceramics and textiles.
Are Kasbah prices higher than the souks?
Generally yes, but quality is more consistent and some shops use fixed prices.
Can visitors pay by card?
Many boutiques and galleries accept cards, although small shops prefer cash.