El Minzah is the grand old hotel of central Tangier, an address with a long history among diplomats, writers and visitors who wanted comfort close to the old town. It stands at 85 Rue de la Liberté in the city centre, two minutes on foot from Place de France and about three from the Grand Socco, which makes it the easiest of the big hotels for walking to the medina. Behind its Moorish-style frontage are 130 rooms, a garden and terrace, indoor and outdoor pools, a full-service spa, a gym, a sauna and a steam room, plus three restaurants, three coffee shops and a poolside bar. It is rated as a five-star property, though one guest felt it was closer to three, so treat it as a characterful traditional hotel rather than a modern luxury block.
Location and getting around
The position is the main advantage. The Grand Socco, the entrance to the medina and the Kasbah route are all within an easy walk, and the beach and the entertainment district are close. The port is about 15 minutes away and Tangier Ville station about 12 minutes by car, with the airport roughly 27 minutes by car. Petit taxis are plentiful on the street outside, which makes it simple to reach Cap Spartel and Cafe Hafa.
Rooms and atmosphere
The hotel has six room types, including a Deluxe Double with a terrace, Superior and Luxury Singles, a Premium Suite and a Senior Suite. Expect traditional decor, comfortable beds and a calm garden at the centre of the property. Older buildings vary, so ask for a quiet room away from the street if you are a light sleeper, and check recent reviews for the state of your room category. The pools are open during the day, and the outdoor pool closes for a short period each spring.
Who it suits and good to know: it is a good fit for first-time visitors who want to walk to the sights, for couples, and for families who value a pool and a garden. Breakfast is a free buffet served in the morning, and parking is free on site, both of which add value.
Rates sit in the upper-mid range for Tangier. Because the hotel is historic, expect character over polish, and do not expect the newest fittings. If you want a modern chain feel, the Hilton is the alternative; if you want a quiet palace escape, choose the Fairmont.
Why stay here
- ✓Garden and terrace
- ✓Indoor and outdoor pools
- ✓Spa, sauna and steam room
- ✓Gym
- ✓Three restaurants
- ✓Poolside bar
- ✓Free buffet breakfast
- ✓Free parking on site
Good questions
How far is El Minzah from the medina?+
It is about a three-minute walk to the Grand Socco, where the medina begins. Place de France is two minutes away.
Is breakfast and parking included?+
The property page shows a free buffet breakfast and free parking on site. Confirm with your rate before you book.
Does it have a pool?+
Yes, there are indoor and outdoor pools and a children's pool, open during the day. The pool closes for a short period each spring.
