Exploring the Distance Between Morocco and Spain: A Comprehensive Guide

Nov 06, 2025 0

When you look at the map, Morocco and Spain appear to be very close to each other. This proximity has intrigued many travelers, including myself when I was living in Spain. Exploring the southern coast of Spain, specifically in Tarifa, I could clearly see Morocco. This sparked my curiosity, leading me to investigate the various ways to travel between these two fascinating countries.

Morocco is located in northern Africa and borders Algiers and Western Sahara. Spain, on the other hand, is located in southern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, sharing it with Portugal.

So, just how far apart are they? Morocco is only 8.8 miles away from Spain, which translates to 14.3 kilometers or 7.6 nautical miles. This close distance makes it relatively easy to travel between the two countries.

The Strait of Gibraltar separates Morocco and Spain.

Traveling from Spain to Morocco: Your Options

You can travel to Morocco from Spain by plane, ferry, or car. There is no tunnel connecting the two countries, as you need to cross the Strait of Gibraltar. However, there are ongoing discussions about building a bridge between Morocco and Spain in the future.

By Plane

Flying is the easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to get to Morocco from Spain. Several flights are available between major cities, often at comparable prices.

By Ferry

You can get to Morocco from two main Spanish cities: Tarifa and Algeciras. Note that you’ll see the city called Ceuta, close to Morocco. The city is an autonomous Spanish region and belongs to Spain, not Morocco.

The ferries from Tarifa to Tangier Ville in Morocco are the fastest, taking only about 1 hour. Alternatively, ferries from Algeciras to Tanger Med take between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes. I recommend taking the ferry from Tarifa to Tangier Ville. This way, you’ll get to the center of Tangier and explore it as a walk-in passenger. It’s also easier to continue exploring Morocco from Tangier Ville.

Ferries are a popular way to travel between Spain and Morocco.

The distance between Morocco and Spain by car via ferry is 17 nautical miles, the same as the direct ferry distance.

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PRO TIP: When booking a ferry online, you’ll still have to check in at the port before taking a ferry and getting actual tickets. So print your booking confirmation or save it on your phone and go to the ferry port (e.g., in Tarifa) to check in and get actual ferry tickets. Online ferry tickets are cheaper than buying your ticket on the spot.

Important Note: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months to avoid being denied boarding.

Can you take a car or pet on the ferry? Yes, you can take a car on the ferry from Spain to Morocco. You can also take a pet on the ferry. Note that a few ferries don’t accept pets. But the majority does.

Other Options

There are no trains or buses that run directly between Morocco and Spain due to the absence of a connecting bridge or tunnel.

A Day Trip from Spain to Morocco: An Itinerary

Tangier, Morocco- Day trip from Spain

Here’s an exciting 1-day itinerary to experience Morocco from Spain:

Rent a car in Tarifa, Spain.
Take the first ferry from Tarifa to Tangier Ville in the morning.
Drive from Tangier to Chefchaouen in Morocco (approximately 2 hours 15 minutes).
Explore Chefchaouen, known for its stunning blue streets, and enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch.
In the afternoon, drive back to Tangier.
If time permits, explore Tangier.

Chefchaouen is famous for its blue-washed buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest distance between Morocco and Spain? Morocco is 14.3 km (8.8 miles) away from Spain at the closest point: Tarifa in Spain and Eddalya in Morocco.
Can you do a day trip to Morocco from Spain? Yes, the easiest way is to take a ferry from Tarifa (Spain) to Tangier Ville (Morocco) early in the morning.
Can you see Morocco from Spain? Yes, it’s possible from Tarifa or Gibraltar on a clear and sunny day.
Can you see Africa from Spain? Yes, it’s best visible from Tarifa (Andalusia) and Gibraltar on a sunny, clear day.
Which European country is closest to Morocco? Spain is the closest European country to Morocco, only 14.3 km or 8.8 miles away.

Distances to Other Locations

For those interested in distances to other locations, here's some information:

Morocco to New York City, USA: The distance can be calculated using online tools that use the great circle distance formula, providing both the straight-line flight distance and potential road trip directions.

These countries, despite being divided by the ocean and the Strait of Gibraltar, are super close, and it’s easy to get from one country to another.

If you’re visiting Spain and want to get a sneak into Morocco, follow my 1-day itinerary from Tarifa and enjoy one of the most beautiful places in Morocco.