For many, Tangier brings up images of a picturesque city full of artists and writers living an exotic lifestyle. While it isn’t the 1950s anymore, Tangier still offers beautiful scenery, pristine beaches, and some of the most luxurious places to stay in North Africa. Here are our picks for the best luxury hotels in Tangier, Morocco.

Hotel Nord-Pinus Tanger

This fancy riad is located at the highest point in the Kasbah, offering some of the best views in the city. It’s set on an antique Portuguese foundation built over the ancient Roman town of Tingis. Guests will have incredible views throughout the hotel of Tarifa, the Spanish coast, the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean. There are four excellent suites, one double room, and a Kasbah house on the property, each with unique charms like antique fabrics, bronze bed frames, and handmade tiles to help set the mood. The fabulous rooftop terraces are possibly the best part of the Hotel Nord-Pinus and are perfect for relaxing by the sea with a cocktail in hand.

Villa Josephine

This hotel is one of the most spectacular properties in the Vieille Montagne area of the city. The style and decor of the hotel features the flavor of the French Riviera with a distinctly African twist. It’s also famous for once being owned by the Duke of Torvar and the Pasha of Marrakech. The 10 rooms offer a view of the sea or the forest, and are exquisitely decorated with Parisian style drapes, lamps and wallpaper. Guests will enjoy hanging out at the stylish library and bar that will whisk them to a time period that has long since passed. The onsite restaurant is also one of the best in the city and a great way to enjoy fine candlelight dining.

Le Mirage

Perched on a cliffside near Les Grottes d’Hercule, this is one of the most swankiest hotels in Tangier. Views from the hotel grounds are simply breathtaking and guests will feel like they are living like royalty. The hotel offers 45 deluxe bungalow suites along with wide windows that open up to spectacular views of the ocean. Like the rooms, the restaurant also has a grand view of the ocean and some of the best seafood in the city. The luxurious piano bar and room has cozy red upholstery, an elegant warm fire place, and makes a great place to wind down in the evenings. The hotel is also great for golfers and is just 8 km from the 18-hole Royal Golf Club.

Hotel Movenpick and Casino

Travelers wanting an all inclusive experience with dining, drinking and gambling will enjoy the Hotel Movenpick and Casino. This hotel is another fantastic modern establishment, complete with a large swimming pool and all the amenities you’d expect of a hotel this size. There is a wide selection of rooms at this establishment, including deluxe, standard and superior, all with private balconies and Asian inspired decor. In contrast to the rooms, the restaurants offer Swiss dining along with international options. Of course, the casino is also great, as is the romantic piano bar — both giving guests great entertainment without leaving the premises.

La Tangerina

This hotel is another great pick for luxury travelers that want to stay in the heart of the Kasbah. It’s been restored to its original grand beauty and harkens back to the style of the European colonial period in the city. The hotel’s 10 rooms are designed around a lovely central courtyard, while a roof terrace offers views of the Straits of Gibraltar and surrounding Medina. One of the best onsite amenities is the traditional Moroccan hammam and spa, offering both a sensory and relaxing experience without leaving the hotel. For dinner, La Tangerina offers a cozy atmosphere and serves up a delicious spread of Moroccan cuisine.

Riad La Maison Blanche

Last but certainly not least, this upmarket riad has been restored to its 14th century opulence and is found tucked away on one of the many winding roads of the Kasbah. The exquisite decoration of the hotel was designed by renowned French interior designer Regis Milcent, and now features incredibly comfy rooms with striking color and traditional Moroccan themes. The nine tastefully designed rooms are all themed and named after famous people who spent time in Tangier, such as Henri Matisse and Paul Bowles. When evenings get cool, guests can hang out by an open fire on the patio while enjoying the view of the surrounding architecture. While there isn’t an onsite restaurant, the riad offers pastries, tea and other Moroccan delicacies throughout the day.

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