MOROCCO - 2 night stay in Tangier??

Rick has long touted Tangier, because it’s always been an easy hop while visiting southern Spain, particularly doing a quickie daytrip from Gibraltar, by ferry. My understanding was that 20 years ago, even Rick Steves acknowledged that Tangier was kind-of sketchy. I think he called it the “Tijuana” of Morocco, comparing popping down from Spain/Gibraltar to going from San Diego to Tijuana. He said it wasn’t the best part of Morocco, but was more interesting than just another day in Spain. It sounds like it’s probably improved over the past two decades (and so has Tijuana?).

Our Morocco trip was in January 2019. It wasn’t excruciatingly hot in January, nor super crowded, and I imagine February would be similar. We flew in to Marrakech from London, and didn’t make it to Tangier (nor Casablanca for that matter). Not having been to Tangier, I can’t offer a personal comparison, but I will say that two days in either Marrakech or Fes would give you a real Moroccan immersion. In each city, we stayed in the medina (old town), in a Riad. These riads all arranged tours by qualified, trustworthy guides, who made it confidently not overwhelming, and very rich experiences. They also served breakfast, and at the Dar Kawa riad in Marrakech, that’s also where we had dinner each night. I’d have to look up the name of our Fes riad.

I agree with Cyn - Marrakesh or Fes are far more interesting than Tangier which, althoug h much improved, is still a bit rackety.

And I agree with Lin C. Tangier is not the most interesting place to visit, but there are things to do and see.
If you head towards the old city and market, you should enjoy it. Tour guides pop up literally out of the woodwork.

Cash used to be a problem. I don't know if it is anymore. I've been stuck with Moroccan money for quite a number of years. Make sure you spend all you have while you are there.
My habit has always been to use my remaining cash for my hotel.

Marrakech is not as overwhelming as one might think. If you can get a direct flight there, that's where I would spend 2 nights. You can stay in themedina but somewhere close to where a taxi can drop you off (since no cars allowed inside). You can easily walk inside the medina and visit interesting sights.

I went alone to Marrakech last October (woman in late 40s) and had no issues, but also knew what to expect and went prepared to ignore hasslers in the souks. I think Marrakech will give you a real taste of Morocco.

I later joined a small group for a loop around the country. I didn't visit Tangier so can't speak about it, but I stopped in Casablanca only to visit the mosque so not sure what else is out there to see. Fes is also really interesting but much larger and complex medina, so I wouldn't feel comfortable there without a guide.

We spent a month in Morocco last year and have been to the places you mentioned. Skip Casablanca as other than the famous mosque it is just a jumping off point to other places in Morocco. I had been given an unfavorable view of Tangier before we visited but it is actually quite nice. We had a guided tour of that city which we enjoyed. Marrakech has a lot of points of interest as does Fes. Another city is Rabat which we enjoyed. With only two nights (one day) you will not be able to see or do that much. Definitely stay in a riad for a more authentic experience.