Road Trip: Marbella → Tarifa → Tangier (Morocco)
Want to go from Spain to Africa in a single day? It's easy. Drive from Marbella to Tarifa, park by the port, and take the fast ferry to Tangier, Morocco. Explore the Old Town (Medina), enjoy mint tea, and stay overnight before heading back the next day.
We don't rent cars — we help you find the best one.
Trip Overview
- ✅Drive from Marbella → Tarifa (A-7 → N-340)
- ✅Park near Tarifa Port
- ✅Take the fast ferry to Tangier Ville
- ✅Stay one night in the Medina
Need to Know
- ✅Bring your passport (Morocco = outside EU)
- ✅Buy ferry tickets online or at the port
- ✅No need to take your rental car — parking is easy in Tarifa
- ✅Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
- 💡Calculate fuel cost for Marbella → Tarifa
Step 1 — Drive to Tarifa
From Marbella, take the A-7 west past Estepona and Algeciras, then continue on N-340 to Tarifa. It's a relaxed coastal drive with ocean views almost all the way.
Full driving details and parking info are in our Tarifa guide.
Step 2 — Park Near Tarifa Port
There's a secure car park right by the ferry terminal and several others nearby the old town. It's easy to leave your car there while you're in Morocco.
Typical price: €1–2/hour or around €10–12 per day. Most accept cards or cash.
Step 3 — Take the Ferry to Tangier
- ✅Ferries run roughly every 1–2 hours during the day.
- ✅Crossing time: about 1 hour to Tangier Ville port.
- ✅Bring your passport and arrive at least 45 minutes before departure.
- ✅You can buy tickets online (FRS or Intershipping) or directly at the port.
Immigration for Morocco is done onboard during the crossing — keep your passport handy.
Step 4 — Explore & Stay Overnight in Tangier
Once you arrive at Tangier Ville Port, it's a short walk or taxi ride into the Medina (Old Town). This is where you'll find cafés, souks, and riad-style hotels with terraces overlooking the sea.
- ✅Stay in or near the Kasbah or Petit Socco for easy exploring.
- ✅Book a riad or small boutique hotel for a local experience.
- ✅Don't miss the Kasbah Museum, Café Hafa, and a sunset walk along the Corniche.
If you're short on time, same-day round trips are possible — but staying one night lets you enjoy the evening markets and calmer streets.
Suggested Itinerary (1 Night)
- ✅Day 1 morning: Drive Marbella → Tarifa
- ✅Day 1 midday: Park and take the ferry
- ✅Day 1 afternoon: Explore Medina, markets & café terraces
- ✅Overnight: Stay in a riad in the Old Town
- ✅Day 2 morning: Breakfast, Kasbah Museum, or Corniche walk
- ✅Day 2 midday: Ferry back to Tarifa, drive to Marbella
Practical Tips
- ✅Keep valuables safe and use hotel safes for passports.
- ✅Wear comfortable shoes — streets in the Medina are uneven.
- ✅Have some cash (Dirhams) for small purchases and taxis.
- ✅Try local dishes like tagine, couscous, and mint tea.
FAQ
Do I need my passport?
Yes — Morocco is outside the EU. You'll go through border control both ways.
Can I take my rental car on the ferry?
It's not recommended unless your contract allows it and insurance covers Morocco. Most visitors park in Tarifa and walk onboard.
Is it safe to walk in Tangier?
Yes, the Medina and main areas are busy and friendly. Use common sense, especially at night.
Is one day enough?
Technically yes, but staying one night lets you enjoy Tangier's evening life and breakfast with sea views.
More Day Trips by Car
Instant confirmation • Free cancellation • No hidden fees