The ‘white dove of the Mediterranean’ with 20°C April weather gets first ever direct UK flights

A beautiful but little-known north African city is welcoming its first direct flights from the UK.

From today, March 29, travellers will be able to fly directly to Tétouan, northern Morocco.

The new route, operated by Royal Air Maroc from London Gatwick on Thursdays and Sundays, opens up a culturally rich yet largely unknown destination, which has until now only been reachable with a connection via Casablanca or other major hubs.

The launch reflects not only the airline’s broader expansion — tied to the opening of a new air base at Tétouan–Sania R’mel Airport — but also a growing appetite for off-the-beaten-track north African travel.

Morocco has seen a surge in UK visitors in recent years.

British arrivals reached one million in 2025, driven by increased flight capacity and rising anti-tourist sentiment in hotspots such as Spain and Greece.

But while most head to Marrakesh or beach destinations like Agadir, Tétouan is a great alternative for those looking to explore the country’s northern charms.

With Hispano-Moorish architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage medina, a sweeping coastline and the majestic Rif Mountains on its doorstep, the city known as the ‘white dove of the Mediterranean sea’ has a lot to offer.

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Lonely Planet describes Tétouan — which sits around 37 miles from Tangier, just south of the Strait of Gibraltar — as ‘a jewel of a town’, while travel blogger Stephanie Granados of WanderlustBeautyDreams calls it ‘Morocco’s hidden gem’.

‘I truly don’t understand why it is bypassed by the majority of tourists,’ adds blogger Els, who runs My Feet Are Meant to Roam.

‘There are plenty of things to do in Tétouan and I found it to be one of the most pure and interesting places I visited in northern Morocco.’
Thinking of seeing it for yourself?

Here’s everything you need to know.

Things to do in Tétouan

At the heart of Tétouan is a historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its whitewashed lanes, tiled courtyards and Andalusian influence.

Rebuilt by refugees from southern Spain in the late 15th century, it feels more authentic than the souks of Marrakesh or Fez, with artisan workshops producing traditional embroidery, leather goods and zellij tiles.

Beyond the city walls, nature takes centre stage.

The rugged peaks of the Rif Mountains rise dramatically behind Tétouan, offering hiking trails and panoramic views, while the Mediterranean beaches of Martil are just a short drive away, popular for swimming and seafood lunches.

The food is a highlight.

Tétouan’s cuisine blends Moroccan and Andalusian traditions, with dishes such as seafood pastilla and slow-cooked tagines reflecting its coastal setting.

Meanwhile, evening strolls through Place Moulay El Mehdi, with its Spanish-era arcades and cafés, provide a relaxed way to soak up the city’s unique cross-cultural atmosphere.

Best time to visit Tétouan

While it depends what you’re looking for, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for visiting Tétouan, as temperatures are warm but comfortable and the surrounding landscapes are at their most appealing.

Thanks to its position between the Mediterranean and the foothills of the Rif Mountains, the city enjoys a milder climate than many inland Moroccan destinations, with daytime highs in spring in the low-to-mid 20°C — ideal for exploring the medina’s narrow lanes, visiting museums and taking day trips without the intense heat that can build in summer.

July and August bring the warmest conditions, often climbing above 30°C, but this is also when nearby beach resorts such as Martil are at their liveliest, drawing domestic and international holidaymakers.

Meanwhile, winter (December to February) is quieter and cooler at between 13°C and 18°C, with occasional rainfall — yet this is still far milder than the UK, and an off-season escape means fewer crowds and better accommodation rates.

Flight prices and journey time

According to Skyscanner, flights on the new route from Gatwick start from £86 return in April, based on departing London on a Saturday and returning on a Thursday.

In terms of journey time, it takes around three hours to get from London to Tétouan S.

Ramel Airport.

Then you’re looking at 10 to 15 minutes in a taxi to reach the city centre.

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.