Day trip from Gibraltar to Morocco

Gibraltar, a British overseas territory located on the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is only 7.7 nautical miles from Morocco, a dream destination for many travelers in North Africa. With such proximity, many also wonder if a day trip from Gibraltar to Morocco is feasible. 

The “bad” news is that, currently, ferries from Gibraltar to Morocco, specifically the port of Tanger Med, operate only during November and December, with 1 weekly crossing that lasts around 1.5 hours. The same applies to ferries traveling from Morocco to Gibraltar, which means that if you choose to travel directly between the two, you will have to stay longer than a day in Morocco (which is not such a bad idea, if you want to take in more sights).

Tip: ferry schedules are always subject to change, so make sure to follow the latest updates for the Gibraltar - Tangier (Morocco) ferry crossing on Ferryhopper.

View of the Rock of Gibraltar rising above the Spanish coastline

But, not all hope is lost! At Ferryhopper, we love finding solutions to your travel-related challenges, and it is time for the good news: if you want to make your Morocco day trip dream come true, you can catch a ferry from the port of Algeciras in Andalusia, which is only 22km west of Gibraltar. 

So, keep on reading to find all about the ferry connections from Algeciras to Tanger Med and back, along with our proposed itinerary for a memorable day trip to Morocco.

Where is Morocco and how do I get there from Algeciras?

Morocco is located in North Africa, right across the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Its northern coast lies just a few kilometers from southern Spain, making it one of the easiest African destinations to reach by ferries from Spain.

Traveling from Algeciras, located near Gibraltar in southern Andalusia, to Morocco is possible year-round with around 40 daily crossings. There are available departures that start from early morning until late evening, making it easy to plan a one-day trip. The Moroccan port connected to Algeciras is Tanger Med, located about 50 km east of the city of Tangier. 

The Algeciras - Tanger Med route is served by multiple ferry companies, including Balearia, Naviera Armas, FRS Iberia, and AML (Africa Morocco Link). The crossing takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the vessel and weather conditions.

Why should I visit Morocco?

Morocco is a destination where cultures, colors, and landscapes blend harmoniously, offering a unique travel experience just a short ferry ride away from Spain. From historic cities to peaceful coastal towns, a new surprise is always in store.

In northern Morocco, the city of Tangier stands out for its fascinating mix of African, Arab, and European influences. It is home to the famous Medina (the old walled quarter), bustling local markets filled with spices and crafts, and offers impressive views of the meeting point between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The nearby Rif Mountains and beaches of Asilah make for perfect excursions if you’re looking to combine culture and nature. Further along the coast, there are other popular ferry destinations such as Nador and Al Hoceima, known for their relaxed seaside atmosphere and scenic surroundings.

Morocco’s warm hospitality, rich cuisine, and year-round mild climate make it a destination worth visiting again and again. Whether you’re drawn to its history, architecture, or the charm of its landscapes, you’ll find countless reasons to fall in love with Morocco. And a day trip is the perfect starting point for this love affair!

A bustling street in Tangier’s historic Medina, Morocco, full of color and local charm

Your one-day itinerary from Gibraltar to Morocco

Tangier is one of Morocco’s most fascinating coastal cities, a multicultural gateway between Europe and Africa that brims with rich history, the clash of cultures, and an unmistakable seaside charm. From its bustling Medina to the scenic beach promenade, Tangier is perfect for a day trip full of discoveries. So, are you ready for your one-day itinerary from Gibraltar to Tangier?

Start your adventure early in the morning by driving from Gibraltar to the nearby port of Algeciras, just 30 minutes away. Keep in mind that you cannot take a rental car from Gibraltar across the border, so you’ll need to either drive a private vehicle or pick a rental on the Spanish side. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or bus from Gibraltar to Algeciras. In any case, please note that you’ll need to go through passport control at the Gibraltar-Spain border. 

Once you arrive at the port of Algeciras, locate and board your ferry to Tanger Med, the main international port serving Tangier. The trip takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the operator and vessel, so we recommend booking one of the earliest departures to make the most of your day trip to Morocco.

As you approach Tanger Med, take a minute to admire the port facilities surrounded by the blue waters of the Mediterranean. After disembarking, you’ll find several transfer options to Tangier city center, located about 45 minutes away. You can take a taxi or a shuttle bus, both of which offer comfortable rides through scenic coastal routes.

Once in Tangier, begin your exploration in Medina, the city's beating heart. Wander through its narrow alleys, filled with colorful shops, traditional crafts, and the scent of Moroccan spices. Don’t miss the Grand Socco, the lively square connecting the old and new city, and the Kasbah, perched on a hill with panoramic views over the Strait of Gibraltar.

Continue to the Kasbah Museum, located in the former Sultan’s Palace, to learn about Tangier’s fascinating history. Then, stroll down to the Petit Socco, a charming café-filled square where artists, writers, and travelers have gathered for decades. Treat yourself to a mint tea, Morocco’s symbol of hospitality, and traditional pastries at the storied Café Central or Café Baba, a favorite of icons like The Rolling Stones.

For a relaxing afternoon, head towards the Corniche for a walk along the coast or visit the Caves of Hercules, just a short drive from the city. This natural wonder, linked to ancient myths, offers spectacular sea views and photo opportunities.

As the day winds down, return to Tanger Med in time for your evening ferry to Algeciras. You’ll reach Spain in about 1.5-2 hours, with your luggage full of Moroccan souvenirs and your heart carrying some pretty unforgettable memories from a spectacular cross-continent ferry trip.

Art Nouveau architecture in Tangier’s vibrant neighborhood near the Grand Socco square

Useful tips for your day trip to Morocco

Here are some useful tips to help you plan a seamless day trip to Morocco:

• The country’s official currency is the Moroccan dirham. Euros, U.S. dollars, and British pounds are the most easily exchanged currencies in the country. While euros are accepted as payment in some places, you will probably get a bad exchange rate.
• Credit cards can be used in big shops, hotels, or restaurants, especially in tourist areas. However, make sure to carry some cash for smaller transactions.
• Haggling is part of Moroccan culture. Sellers typically begin with an unreasonably high price. When you make a counteroffer, start very low and work up from there, so that you can eventually meet somewhere close to the middle mark.
• Keep in mind that Morocco is in a different time zone (GMT+1) than mainland Spain.
• You must carry a valid passport, as the Algeciras - Tanger Med route is an international crossing. Visa requirements may apply depending on your nationality.

Ready for a cross-continent day trip from Gibraltar to Morocco? Then compare schedules on our Map of ferries and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper with no hidden fees!