Larache Travel Guide: Spanish Squares, Port & Lixus Ruins
Larache is an easygoing port town on Morocco's northern Atlantic coast, at the mouth of the Loukkos river. Long under Spanish influence, it has a graceful plaza, a fortified old town and the nearby Roman ruins of Lixus. It sees few tourists, which is part of its charm.
At a glance
- Setting
- Atlantic coast, mouth of the Loukkos river
- Highlights
- Plaza de Espana, medina, Lixus ruins
- Allow
- Half a day to 1 day
- From Tangier
- About 1.5 hours
- Best time
- April to October
In this guide
The old town and plaza
The main square, Place de la Libération (formerly Plaza de España), is lined with arcades and cafes in Spanish colonial style. The medina behind it has narrow lanes, a covered market and ramparts overlooking the sea.
The fishing port and fortresses
The Kebibat Fortress and the old Portuguese-Spanish sea fort stand over the harbour, where colourful boats unload. A walk along the ramparts at sunset is one of the highlights.
Lixus
About 4 km north, Lixus is one of the oldest Phoenician and Roman settlements in Morocco, with salt-fish factories, mosaics and an amphitheatre on a hilltop above the river. It has fewer visitors than Volubilis and is a pleasant visit for history lovers. See our history of Morocco.
Beaches
Larache's Atlantic beaches are long and open, and Rmilat Beach is a popular choice. The sea is cool and currents can be strong, so swim only where lifeguards are present.
Getting there
Trains and buses connect Larache with Tangier, Asilah and Rabat. It makes an easy stop on a north-coast route between Tangier and Rabat. See getting around Morocco.
What to do in half a day
Begin in Place de la Libération with a coffee under the arcades. Wander through the medina to the market, climb the ramparts for views over the river mouth and port, and walk down to the harbour to see the fish auction and fishermen mending nets. If you have a car or taxi, finish at Lixus for sunset over the river.
Literary connection
Larache is associated with the French writer Jean Genet, who is buried in the town's old Spanish cemetery, and with Spanish colonial history, when the city was part of the protectorate in the north. The cemetery and the old Spanish cathedral are easy additions to a walking tour.
When to visit
Spring and early autumn are the best seasons. Summer is lively with domestic tourists at the beaches, while winter is quiet and can be wet. See when to visit Morocco for the wider picture.
Combining the north coast
Larache works well in a route with Asilah and Tangier, or as a stop on the way south to Rabat. Trains and buses make it simple to go independently.
Frequently asked questions
What is Larache known for?
It is known for its Spanish-style plaza, its fishing port and the nearby Roman ruins of Lixus.
Is Larache worth visiting?
Yes, if you enjoy quiet towns and history. It is less polished than Asilah but more authentic and uncrowded.
How far is Larache from Tangier?
About 85 km, roughly 1.5 hours by road or train.