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The port of Algeciras is a modern port, and for many reasons leading in Europe, offering a direct connection between Europe and North Africa. Over 3,5 Million passengers and more than 600.000 vehicles use the port's installations per year, and with the new maritime station, with an area of over 19.000 m2, offering different types of services, such as restaurants, travel agencies, shops, sanitary service, bus station, taxi station, car rent etc you should be able to find what you need. However, if unable to find what you are looking for at the maritime station then the people of Algeciras will warmly welcome any visitors.
Algeciras is an industrial city that supports the large deep water container port and nearby oil refinery. In the port area there are many Moroccans in transit, particularly during July and August when migrant workers return home for their holidays from their work in France, Holland and Belgium. As a consequence, there is a strong Arab influence here with many of the signs in Arabic as well as Spanish while, in the backstreets, you can find several traditional tea shops which specialise in the traditional Moroccan mint tea. Algeciras may not be a beautiful city but it does have a gritty individuality about it and, unlike some of the Costa resorts, is a very genuine place with a real port atmosphere. There are lots of reasonably priced restaurants to try - several with terrific views of the nearby Rock of Gibraltar. Those that find the time to wander will find quiet parks and tree lined plazas almost hidden away from the rushing travellers.
For most people, however, Algeciras is just a stopping off place, en route to Tangier and Morocco. There are about eight crossings a day (2 hrs 30 mns or 70 minutes with a fast ferry).
Getting to Algeciras Port by Car
When approaching Algeciras you will be passing over a river and there will be signs showing towards the port. Keep to the left and go through the tunnel. Countinue to keep left and you will get to the Port entrance.
Once past the guard at the entrance to the port, continue over the bridge and on your left you will now see the Terminal. Continue to the round-about, and take it 360 degrees around and drive back towards the Terminal.
Along the fence on your right you will find parking places.
Getting to Algeciras Port by Bus
The company "Transportes Comes" has several departures a day. The duration is approximately 20 min.
You can find out more at the "Estación de Autobuses Algeciras".
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