7 Best Hotels in Tangier and the Mediterranean, Morocco

The inner courtyard of this beautifully designed, Spanish-run riad in the medina dates back to the 17th century, and during the Spanish protectorate, the palace housed the pasha (governor). More recent renovations include smooth tadelakt walls and a freshening up of the original carved cedar doors and colorful tiles. It's home to a light-filled reading area, an authentic hammam, and a restaurant serving modern Spanish-Moroccan fusion cuisine.

With bright, traditional-style rooms, this hotel reflects the medina and sky with its fresh blue-and-white color scheme, stained-glass skylights, and plant-filled patios. The breakfast is more generous than most, and the daily changing three-course Moroccan set menu at the hotel's restaurant is highly recommended; there's a hammam, too.

This Spanish-owned medina riad has been nicely restored and converted into an intimate B&B with small but attractive rooms and plenty of laid-back lounging spaces. These include an elegant ground-floor salon with an open fireplace, where breakfast is served around a communal table, and a rooftop terrace complete with a haima, a Moroccan-style tent. 

This traditional 19th-century riad has five spacious rooms above the courtyard restaurant and five in the quieter neighboring building, all individually decorated with Andalusian tiles and Moroccan details. The hosts show their attention to detail in everything from the all-natural bath lotions and soaps to their eagerness to promote Tetouan. 

This traditionally decorated B&B was designed by local painter Karim Al-Haoulani, whose paintings also decorate the walls. The retreat has a comfortable lounge area for relaxing and reviving, individually decorated rooms, a large terrace, and a basement restaurant serving up classic dishes.

Set in a striking Hispano-Moorish building, this 1920s grande dame has retained a certain period charm despite somewhat dated decor. Guest rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable, with double-glazed windows and air-conditioning; ask for one at the front, with balconies overlooking the bustling square.

Located in the Kasbah, and offering great rooftop views of the city and ocean, this little gem of a hotel is hidden behind an unassuming exterior. The traditional Hispano-Moroccan-style house is organized around a central living room, and each floor offers a new view of the city. The knowledgeable staff makes you feel like one of the family. The rooms are palatial and visually exciting, with deep colors and rich patterns. Dinner can be arranged with advance notice.