I took this route on my 10-day journey, starting in Tangier and making stops in Meknes, Fes, Rabat, and Marrakech. And there's simply no better way to travel to northern Morocco.

Tangier Morocco is a vibrant gateway to cultural discovery and coastal relaxation. Explore the fascinating Medina, admire historic landmarks, and soak in breathtaking seaside views.

I arrived in Tangier after a quick ferry ride from Tarifa, on the southern coast of Spain. Though it’s just a 35-minute boat ride away, Tangier feels a world apart from Europe.

Tangier’s many facets have long inspired writers. Here, the Moroccan-born novelist Laila Lalami introduces readers to the books and writers that, to her, best capture the city.

In Tangier, Morocco — right across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain — the roosters, even more than the minaret’s call to prayer, make sure the city wakes up early.