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15 Best Cities to Visit in Morocco

From the glistening waters of the Mediterranean to the sandy plains of the Sahara, Morocco has fascinated and enticed travelers for thousands of years.

Morocco’s strength lies in its integral position for trade with the rest of Africa; as such, the country has seen many influences infused with its own Berber traditions. From French to Spanish and others in between, each of Morocco’s cities – whether they be cosmopolitan metropolises or traditional medieval towns – are ready for you to discover. Here is our pick of the best cities in Morocco to help you to plan your next trip.

Asilah is an arty little city where brightly colored murals adorn the walls. The old fortified coastal city is a vibrant and fun place where the cultures of both Spain and Morocco fuse.

Walk around the old city and discover the creativity and tradition oozing from every street. The seaside promenade provides the perfect place for a slow pedal past the pretty cafes and views of the ocean.

14. Larache

This chilled-out, summer city is an easy going place that is thronged with domestic tourists during the summer months. Larache’s River Loukas runs slowly through the city and the incredible ruins of Lixus sit nearby, where the legendary Gardens of the Hesperides are said to have been located.

The Spanish part of this city is still very much alive – don’t be surprised to stumble across tapas bars and Spanish churches.

13. Tinghir

Hugged between the High Atlas Mountains and the beautiful sands of the Sahara, the tantalizing city of Tinghir sits in the middle of the Todra Valley. Tinghir is an old Amazigh town that has grown to become a city overflowing with blooming flower gardens, magnificent Kasbahs and charming narrow streets.

Overlooked by the remains of the 18th Century Glaoui Palace, hike up to the top for amazing views of the surrounding areas.

12. El Jadida


The punchy port city of El Jadida is a popular holiday resort for Moroccan residents. The length of sandy beach here gets busy in the summer months, with families enjoying time off together.

The city itself doesn’t have a wealth of character, and can be explored on an easy day trip from Casablanca. Walk around the 16th Century Portuguese Cistern and take in the sites from high up on its ramparts.

11. Chefchaouen

Charming Chefchaouen, with its pops of famous blue-washed buildings and red-tiled roofs, is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains, the city’s narrow labyrinth of lanes hide plazas and ancient kasbahs, (meaning ‘citadels’) with plenty of photo opportunities around every corner.

With a mix of both Moroccan and Andalusian influences, this town is a hotbed of creativity and development. It’s also the perfect place to spend a few days enjoying delicious food, chatting with locals, and adventuring in the surrounding hills.

10. Tetouan

In the north of the country, the little city of Tetouan – which translates as ‘the water springs’ – sits strikingly at the foot of the Rif Mountains. The city is an important port on the Mediterranean sea and was once the capital of Spanish Morocco.

Its streets are filled with square, white-washed, Spanish-style buildings and wide boulevards – make sure to visit the city’s wonderful medina and feel like you have stepped back in time.

9. Casablanca

Everyone knows the city of Casablanca as the colonial setting of the 1942 romantic film, but the city of today doesn’t quite reflect that dreamy, enchanting feeling. Instead, modern-day Casablanca is a trading powerhouse – the importance of the port city means it is Morocco’s economic hub.

You can still take a walk around Casablanca’s curious old downtown to discover its past. Ornate Moorish architecture is infused with European shapes and styles. If you really want to hark back to black-and-white films, have drinks at Rick’s Cafe – the famous bar from the film (it’s a reconstruction, but we can all pretend right?).

The gateway to Africa – for Europeans, at least – has a strange and checkered past. The city’s famous International Zone was a magnet for all sorts of bizarre and curious characters, attracting many writers and artists during the 1950’s and 60’s – inspiring numerous novels and songs since.

The Tangiers of today still holds on to its fanciful past, and outside influences have affected Tangiers’ aesthetic. But with new business booming and money flowing in, the city has seen much development and is now a fine display of Morocco’s future.

Busy and bustling, the port city of Agadir is a holiday destination in its own right. After much of Agadir was destroyed following a devastating earthquake in 1960 – especially its most historical parts – the city was rebuilt, and is much less beautiful that Morocco’s many intricate old towns.

But Agadir rose from the ashes and became a thriving seaside resort with a chilled out atmosphere to match. The city’s laid-back beachfront promenade is perfect for days spent strolling and enjoying life like the locals. Make sure to stop at one of the food stalls for a snack and chat with some of the city’s friendly inhabitants.

6. Essaouira

Essaouira is a serene coastal city with a distinctly European vibe. Once under French protectorate, which led to a fusion of cultures and architectural styles, it saw hippies, musicians, and travelers of the 1960’s moving into the city. As a result, it became accustomed to foreigners, and is now a destination city for travelers wanting to spend some time wandering around the beautiful medina.

Essaouira boasts pretty, sandy beaches, but the strong winds make sunbathing out of the question. Water-sports fans know the benefit of the wind, however, and meet up on Essaouira’s beaches in the summer months to practice their windsurfing skills.

The harbor and old city walls add a depth to the city’s history and, with its small lanes and ancient streets, make for the perfect place to get lost and discover new and interesting secrets hidden among the walls.


The Moroccan capital of Rabat sits on the banks of the Bouregreg River. It is famous for its incredible Islamic architecture. The city also has strong ties to its French past and – as it lies on the Atlantic coast – has a distinctly European coastal town atmosphere. Rabat’s kasbah is ensconced in the fortified center of the town.

It is a fantastic spot to sit and soak up the atmosphere. Take a stroll to St. Peter’s Cathedral and soak in its strange and surreal art-deco style – then enjoy a nice cup of refreshing mint tea at one of the numerous cafes.

Dating back to the 11th Century, the old city of Meknes was once the capital of imperial Morocco. The Sultan at the time developed the city, building high walls and huge doors to protect it, and creating elaborate and ornate Moorish-Spanish-style buildings.

The city’s historic blend of European and Islamic design can be seen in its many monuments. The mosaic tiled Bab Mansour Leleuj, as well as the Bab Mansour Leleuj, are stunningly beautiful. The mausoleum to Sultan Moulay Ismaïl – who made Meknes his capital – is a regal display of power, with fountains and decorative gardens.

3. Ouarzazate

The gateway to the Sahara Desert, Ouarzazate sits to the south of the High Atlas Mountains. This small and dusty desert city is dominated by the colossal Taourirt Kasbah, a 19th Century fortified palace. The palace boasts amazing views across the mountainous, red landscape. In fact, it is so distinct that has been used in many movies.

The city itself has many options for hotels and small, reasonably priced local restaurants to enjoy. The position of the city also means that it’s easy to take day trips to nearby sights such as the Ait Benhaddou – an excellently preserved kasbah.

Once the capital of the Kingdom of Morocco, Fez exudes culture and history. Well-known for its famous small, red hats, the city also has many compelling sites to take in. Fez’s emblematic medina is a huge pedestrianized sprawl that oozes ambience and history. It can seem completely overwhelming to many visitors, whilst others fall in love with the ebullient atmosphere.

Those who are brave enough to wander down the narrow alleys can discover the city’s two Islamic schools or madrasa. Dating back to the 14 Century, Bou Inania and Al Attarine have intricate faces carved from cedar as well as elaborate tiles.

The 11th Century Chouara Tannery is one of the oldest in the world and has been making leathers for traders for many generations – make sure to look out for it in the bustling marketplace.

1. Marrakech

One of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities, Marrakech has been a key trading hub for many years. The city’s position is integral to the trade of goods into the country, and its focus on trading has shaped the city. Take a look at the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, which dates back to the 12th Century and is an iconic symbol of the old town – the exquisite 19th Century Bahia Palace also stands out for its lavish design.

Marrakech is a busy and hectic city. The main market place, Jemaa el-Fnaa in the city’s medina, is a hot and cramped experience for most people. Everything and anything is on sale, from monkeys to musical instruments.

See also: Where to Stay in Marrakech

Traders call out to customers to heckle and entice – bartering for goods is the norm . As night falls, the main square changes and gives way to steaming food stalls. Though it doesn’t seem possible, the city becomes even more of an animated, dynamic and exuberant travel experience.

Map of cities in Morocco

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15 of the Best Cities to Visit in Morocco for an Unforgettable Trip

Last Updated: January 5, 2024 //  by  Ashley Smith Leave a Comment

Before I finally visited, I had no idea which were the best cities to visit in Morocco / which ones deserved my time. I decided I’d simply check out as many as I could so I could make a more informed decision for my future visits. (And there will definitely be future visits!)

I spent a couple of awe-inspiring weeks in Morocco in 2023 and it quickly became one of my favorite countries ever. (And thankfully too because I had only the highest of expectations for my long-awaited trip to Agrabah.) On this list of the best cities to visit in Morocco are many that will hold space in my heart for a long time. So, let me tell you what makes them so great.

Table of Contents

Map of the best cities to visit in Morocco

Here are all the best cities to visit in Morocco together on one handy map to help you plan your trip. To save this map : Click on the star ⭑ next to the map’s title to save in your Google Maps.  To use this map:  Open Google Maps on your phone, click “Saved” at the bottom, then click “Maps.”

Now, here are what I believe to be the best cities to visit in Morocco, in no particular order (because choosing favorites here simply can’t be done).

To get the details on all the awesome things I did in Morocco, check out my full 2-week Morocco itinerary here! (It’s really so magical.)

Morocco Packing List 2024

1. Casablanca

Casablanca isn’t always on the top of visitors’ must-see lists when they come to Morocco, but I certainly believe it’s worth a visit. It’s mostly an industrial/port city on Morocco’s northern coast, so it often gets looked over for more well-known and tourist-centered cities.

Why visit Casablanca?

Casablanca is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco if only for its mosque. It’s here that you’ll find the stunning and shockingly large Hassan II Mosque. Not only is this one of the largest mosques in the world, but it’s also the only one in Morocco that non-Muslims can visit.

What to see and do in Casablanca

The Hassan II Mosque –I recommend spending a good chunk of time just walking around the exterior of this place; every inch of it is stunning. Its location (sitting out halfway over the ocean) is truly unique as far as mosques in Morocco go. Then, you must take a tour of the inside —it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!

Rick’s Café – While you’re in Casablanca you should also stop by Rick’s Café for dinner and drinks. Though the movie Casablanca is entirely fictional (as was the bar where it took place), this place has been transformed to resemble the one from the film. If you’re a fan of the movie (like I am!), you’d definitely enjoy a stop here.

Great Casablanca tours

• Skip-the-line guided Hassan II Mosque tour  w/ hotel pickup
• Casablanca half-day city tour including Hassan II Mosque
• Casablanca Old Medina walking tour  (finishes at Hassan II Mosque)

Where to stay in Casablanca

In Casablanca I stayed at the Gray Boutique Hotel and it was fabulous. My room (suite actually) was enormous and had a wraparound balcony. The breakfast is great and the staff is super nice. And cats just come and go here as they please. It’s fantastic.

For more great places to stay in Morocco, check out my post on all the hotels, riads, kasbahs, and camps I stayed at this year!

2. Marrakech

Marrakech is arguably the most well-known and popular one on the list of best cities to visit in Morocco. If you go to Morocco for any amount of time, chances are you’ll visit the bustling, loud, and potentially overwhelming city of Marrakech.

Marrakech is a shock to the senses if you’ve been traveling around the rest of Morocco before you make it here. While the rest of the country is mostly chill, Marrakech is LOUD and pretty in-your-face. Some love it (like me) and others can’t get out of here fast enough. But , you won’t really know which way you’ll fall until you visit.

Why visit Marrakech?

Though it can be overwhelming at times, Marrakech is also one of the most beautiful and fun cities I’ve visited in Morocco. It’s endlessly colorful; the shopping here is superior; and there’s just an excitement about it that engulfs you immediately.

Marrakech is definitely one of the best cities to visit in Morocco for its energy, its abundant sightseeing potential, and its food. (Make sure you eat some tanjia while you’re here!)

What to see and do in Marrakech

Some of the best things to see and do in Marrakech are:

• Explore the bustling medina and haggle for so many souvenirs that you’ll have to also haggle for an extra suitcase to bring them home in. (True story.)
• Visit the Bahia Palace , the Majorelle Gardens , and the Saadian Tombs
• Check out the Koutoubia Mosque (from the outside only, but it’s still iconic)
• Have dinner on a rooftop overlooking Djemma el Fna at night
• Hit up all the fresh juice stands you can find

Great Marrakech tours

• Private half-day sightseeing tour of Marrakech  – Includes the medina, Bahia Palace, Majorelle Gardens, Koutoubia mosque, and more. Excellent reviews!
• Marrakech Nighttime Street Food Tour  – There’s a tanjia in the photo, so that’s promising!
• Actually, there are too many good options. Check out all the best  Marrakech guided day tours  here.

Where to stay in Marrakech

In Marrakech I stayed at the Bab Hotel and it was perfectly fine. (With the exception of the incident that landed this stay on my list of worst travel moments of 2023 , eek!)

There are tons of gorgeous hotels and riads in Marrakech and on my next visit I’ll stay somewhere more along the lines of Riad Kheirredine or Riad Idra . These are much more centrally located and just generally prettier and more the vibe I’m looking for.

Also check out: What to Pack for Morocco : What to Wear in Morocco as a Woman + Complete Morocco Packing List

Rabat is the country’s current capital and another on the list of the best cities to visit in Morocco that most people skip right past. It may not have as much to offer in terms of sightseeing or “things to do,” but it’s definitely a unique spot worth checking out.

What to see and do in Rabat

While in Rabat, be sure to:

• Walk the all-white streets of the medina – Do some souvenir shopping, take lots of photos of cats, the usual
• Hang out at the Oudaya Kasbah and watch the massive ocean waves
• Chill out with some mint tea and pastries at Café des Oudayas . Wait, “chill out?” What I meant to say was get absolutely smashed on your entire month’s allotment of sugar . You’ll see.
• Pay a visit to the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Hassan Tower

Great Rabat tours

• Rabat medina half-day walking tour  – Includes all the spots mentioned in this post!
• Private guided city walking tour of Rabat  – Also includes all the spots but it’s just your group this time.
• Rabat food tour in the old town  – Taste your way around Morocco’s capital.

Where to stay in Rabat

I didn’t stay the night in Rabat when I visited, but here are a few popular Rabat hotel options for you:

• Hotel Le Musée
• Sofitel Rabat Jardin Des Roses

Fun fact: The taxis are a different color in each Moroccan city. In Casablanca they’re red; in Marrakech they’re orange-ish; in Ifrane they’re green; in Chefchaouen they’re blue (obviously!), and so on.

4. Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is known as Morocco’s blue city and you’ve certainly seen a few [gazillion] photos of it, I’m sure. While this isn’t the easiest place to get to, I do think it’s one of the best cities to visit in Morocco for a couple reasons.

Why visit Chefchaouen?

First and foremost, you should visit Chefchaouen simply just to see it. The entire city really is blue. Not just one street for tourism purposes… but the whole town. It’s bizarre, but you’ve gotta see it. There isn’t a whole lot to do in Chefchaouen, but getting lost here is a truly worthwhile experience.  

What to see and do in Chefchouen

The main thing to do in Chefchouen is really just to walk and explore. The entire place is a large blue maze, but not so large that you risk never coming out. (Like Fez, yikes!) Really, just take the day and wander all the streets. There’s a lot of (blue) things to see and tons of cats to photograph. (You can tell where my priorities lie.)

Additionally, you can also:

• Hike up to the Spanish Mosque at sunset
• Visit the historic Kasbah Fortress in the town center
• Buy yourself a djellaba out of the back of some guy’s van on the side of the road

Great Chefchaouen tours

• Private walking tour of Chefchaouen with a local guide – I think the name says it all.
• Here’s a  Chefchaouen guided food tour  for something a little different

Where to stay in Chefchouen

In Chefchaouen I stayed at the Riad Hicham and I loved it! The entire property is so beautiful and unique and the staff is incredibly courteous. (Watch my reel here of what it was like just walking to my room!) The hotel restaurant is so good I ate here every night I spent in Chefchaouen. Highly recommend!

Meknes is another city you probably haven’t heard of, but still one of the best cities to visit in Morocco. It’s conveniently located between Casablanca and Rabat and actually used to be the capital of Morocco. Today, it’s one of the four imperial cities of Morocco along with Rabat, Marrakech, and Fez.

Why visit Meknes?

While this isn’t the most happenin’ city in Morocco, there are still some incredibly cool things to see here. Plus, since it’s not nearly as popular as cities like Marrakech and Fez, you’ll enjoy the freedom of a crowd-free visit.

What to see and do in Meknes

My favorite things to see and do in Meknes are:

• Check out the awesome gates at the Meknes Royal Palace , but be wary of taking photos here unless you have express permission from the guards outside. (Which I did, hence these photos.)
• Visit the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail – Even non-Muslims can visit this place and it’s one of the most beautiful spots I visited in all of Morocco.
• Check out the storks. Meknes was the first place (of what would become many) where I noticed the giant storks building their nests. You’ll see storks all over Morocco actually, but it’s cool to see them living it up on top of the palace walls.

Great Meknes tours

• Imperial city of Meknes half-day walking tour  – See the city’s biggest sights with a local guide.
• Meknes Gastronomy Tour in the heart of the medina – This looks simply amazing.
• Or see  Meknes on a day trip from Fez  (along with Volubilis).

Where to stay in Meknes

In Meknes I stayed at the Riad Ritaj and it felt like a totally hidden retreat within the city. The property is quintessentially Moroccan, the rooms are huge, and the staff is super nice.

6. Volubilis

On the list of best cities to visit in Morocco, Volubilis will certainly stand out from all the others. In fact, you’ll feel like you aren’t even in Morocco at all. That’s because Volubilis is actually a city made up of ancient Roman ruins.

Why visit Volubilis?

Whether or not you’ve visited your fair share of Roman ruins before, these are pretty unique since you’re in Africa , remember? And if you’ve never visit an ancient Roman city before, then you’ll love it for just what it is.

What to see and do in Volubilis

There are numerous spots to check out here, like the triumphal arch, the mosaic tiled floors, and the aqueduct. There are bath houses and temples and ancient olive oil presses too. All the land around this area is beautiful and it’ll be a nice change to spend a day out in the countryside.

Great Volubilis tours

If you’d like to take a guided tour of Volubilis, know that most of them leave from Fes and include a tour of Meknes as well. In case you’re interested, here are some popular day trips:

• Full-day guided day trip to Volubilis and Meknes
• Meknes & Volubilis day trip from Fes

Where to stay near Volubilis

Volubilis is kind of “in the middle of nowhere,” and the vast majority of people visit Volubilis from either Fez or Meknes. So, that’s definitely where you want to stay if you plan to visit Volubilis. For where to stay in those two cities, check out #5 and #7 in this post.

Of all the cities I’m declaring the best to visit in Morocco, Fez is definitely one of my favorites. Top Two, for sure. This is another that can quickly overwhelm people, so I definitely wouldn’t visit here without a guide who’s willing to quite literally hold your hand, as mine so graciously was.  

Why visit Fez?

Fez is the second largest (behind Casablanca) and one of the most ancient cities in Morocco and just all-around awesome. The Fez medina is one of the largest pedestrian-only zones in the world and is said to be made up of 10,000 streets… without any sort of organization at all. It’s just a mess. A loud, disorienting mess. And I adore it.

Fez is also home to the 1200-year-old Chouara Tannery you may have seen pictures of before, and the University of al-Qarawiyyin, the world’s oldest university. You can also see how that iconic Fez pottery is made, take a tour of some different markets, and even get a custom leather jacket made and delivered to your hotel in just two hours.

What to see and do in Fez

While in Fez, be sure to :

• Take a tour of the medina
• Visit the tannery to see how leather products have been here for centuries
• Stop by the Fes Mosaic and Pottery studios  to see how mosaics and pottery are made close-up
• Visit the University of al-Qarawiyyin and the Funduq al-Najjarin Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
• Eat a pastilla —Moroccan dish of chicken, onions, and almonds in a cinnamon-sugar covered flaky crust you can find in these parts. This is my absolute favorite Moroccan food.

Great Fez tours

• Full-day private tour of Fez with a local guide
• Guided walking tour of the Fez medina

Where to stay in Fez

In Fez I stayed at the Riad Palais Houyam and I absolutely loved it. It has a fantastic rooftop patio and delicious restaurant. The staff went out of their way for me and I was even able to get my laundry done here. The property is gorgeous and the location (just outside the medina) is perfect.

When you enter the city of Ifrane in the Middle Atlas Mountains, no part of you will be convinced you’re still in Morocco. Ifrane is known for its skiing and lodges, its forests and waterfalls, and its alpine-style architecture. All this gives it the popular nickname “The Switzerland of Morocco.”

Why visit Ifrane?

Ifrane is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco because it’s just so different. (And perhaps because I’m already obsessed with the Alps as it is.) It’s so unlike the rest of the country. It was even dubbed the “second cleanest city in the world,” just behind Calgary, Canada. Come here and breathe some fresh air!

What to see and do in Ifrane

When in Ifrane, you must:

• Go skiing , if that’s what you’re into
• Go for a hike through Ifrane National Park to see the monkeys ! (Barbary macaques, specifically.)
• Check out the Swiss-like architecture
• See the lion sculpture which dates back to the 1930s and is believed to honor the fact that there actually used to be lions in these parts

Great Ifrane tours

If you’d like to pop into Ifrane to see what it’s all about, check out this Middle Atlas Mountains and Cedar Forest Day Trip from Fez .

Where to stay in Ifrane

If you’d like to stay overnight in Ifrane, here are some great hotel options:

• Michlifen Resort & Golf – Fabulous reviews!
• L’empreinte D’ifrane – I would NEVER guess this wasn’t the Swiss Alps.

9. Khamlia Village

The village of Khamlia sits on the very edge of the Sahara Desert and is home to the Gnaoua—the direct descendants of slaves brought to Morocco centuries ago from Sudan.

Today, the Gnaoua welcome visitors into their village at Khamlia to experience their food, music, and culture. My day with the Gnaoua is one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life and Khamlia village is without a doubt one of the best cities to visit in Morocco.

What to see and do at Khamlia

My day in Khamlia went a little like this:

• Welcome tea (because of course!)
• Time in the kitchen to learn about Medfouna (Berber pizza) and see how the women make it
• Desert picnic of Medfouna (super delicious BTW) and other foods while being serenaded by the nicest villagers on the planet
• Watch, listen, and even participate in beautiful musical, singing, and dancing performances by a group known as Pigeons du Sable Group Zaid (the Sand Pigeons).

How to visit Khamlia

This incredible experience was included as part of my 2-week Morocco tour with Intrepid . You can drive here yourself though and have the same experiences; I saw a few people arriving as we were leaving.

If you’re not that adventurous though, there are a couple of tours that include a visit with the Gnawa of Khamlia. Check out these options:

• Merzouga Desert, Visit Nomads, Gnawa Music
• Visit the Nomads, Gnawa Music, Berber Pizza

10. Merzouga

Next on the list of the best cities to visit in Morocco is Merzouga, location of the Sahara Desert’s famous Erg Chebbi sand dunes. (And definitely my favorite day I spent in Morocco!) No trip to Morocco would be complete without a trip into the Sahara. (And via camel if at all possible.)

What to see and do in Merzouga

No matter how you spend your time in Merzouga, this is such an awesome and unforgettable experience. Here are a few ways I spent my night in the desert:

• Camel trekking over the sand dunes
• Camping out in the desert
• Watching the scarab beetles make teeny tiny footprints in the sand
• Relaxing with friends while the sun sets over the dunes
• Listen to local musicians around the campfire
• You can also book activities like sand boarding and ATV trips over the dunes if that’s your thing

How to visit Merzouga and the Sahara

Again, this experience was part of my 2-week Morocco trip, but since this is such a popular activity, there are tons of options for tours that will take you here. Check out:

• 2 Nights in Luxury Camp & Camel Trekking in Merzouga Desert
• Camel Ride and Overnight in Sahara Desert Camp
• There are so many. Check out all the Merzouga Sahara tours here .

Where to stay in Merzouga / Sahara

While visiting the area I stayed at the Golden Camp Sahara . This is a “luxury” Sahara camp and, though I have nothing else to compare it too, I would certainly agree. The staff was super accommodating and the property is gorgeous but the rooms were the best part.

Even though these are technically “tents,” they still have showers with hot water, a sink, an actual flushing toilet, lighting, heating, comfy beds, and tons of space to chill out in. I would definitely recommend the Golden Camp Sahara to anyone.

11. Aït Benhaddou

The Ksar of Aït Benhaddou is a centuries-old fortified village and UNESCO World Heritage Site .  Tons of movies and TV shows have been filmed here like The Mummy , Gladiator , and Game of Thrones . (They were even filming Gladiator 2 when I was there!)

Why visit Aït Benhaddou?

First of all, if you’re a fan of any of these shows/films, you’ll definitely want to see this place in person. Beyond that, it’s a fascinating little village to explore. It really does feel like you’re in some ancient fantasy world.

What to see and do in Aït Benhaddou

When in Aït Benhaddou you should definitely:

• Explore the town , just wandering through the streets
• Climb up to the top for awesome views of the entire village and the mountains beyond
• Have lunch at the Tawesna Tea House —an organization that provides opportunities for local women to earn an income (and the most amazing food and hospitality!)
• Watch the artist paint Moroccan desert scenes with tea, sugar, and flames
• Visit the carpet cooperative across the river to learn about (and watch) how traditional Berber rugs are made
• Pretend you’re Khaleesi

Great Aït Benhaddou tours

Visiting Aït Benhaddou is best on a tour so you can learn all the neat info and history about it, so check out these options:

• Day tour from Marrakech: Atlas Mountains and Ancient Aït Ben haddou (5-stars here!)
• Private Full-Day Excursion to Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate for just your group (This is definitely the way to go.)
• From Marrakech: Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou Day Tour
• Guided tour of Aït Benhaddou  – Just a simple guided tour of Aït Benhaddou if you’re already able to get here yourself.
• Really, there are so many options that are all similar. Check out all the Aït Benhaddou tours available here on Viator and here on Get Your Guide .

Where to stay in Aït Benhaddou

After my visit in Aït Benhaddou I stayed at the Kasbah Cigogne which was totally unique. Besides being greeted with a truly unforgettable sunset (followed by a sky filled with stars), the staff here is so, so nice. My room was pretty simple but I don’t require much so it was fine. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again.

Zaida is going to be one of the most remote, random, and real of the best cities to visit in Morocco, thanks to our local guide Mohamed who loved showing us his country’s most hidden gems.

Why visit Zaida?

Well, the reason you’re going to want to visit Zaida is for lunch . Specifically, what they call “barbecue.” Mohamed told us that’s what Zaida is known for, and he’s not wrong. Pulling into Zaida you’ll notice the whole town is shrouded in a delicious-smelling cloud of smoke.

Once your eyes adjust, you’ll then notice all the… umm… animal corpses hanging from the storefronts. Obviously, a visit to Zaida may be hard for some to stomach, but it’s also an unfiltered look into how the people live and make a living here.

What to see and do in Zaida

Grab a seat at one of the eateries and go nuts. (I ate at a place I believe is called Xaluca.) Ask your server for what he recommends or do like we did and just order a little bit of everything. Beef, goat, lamb, tagine (of course), and, my personal favorite, kefta.

Also, Zaida is located in the Midelt region, aka the apple capital of Morocco. There will be produce stands all around you so pick up some apples while you’re here!

Zaida tours?

This place is so off-the-radar that I can’t find a single tour that’ll get you here. If you’re checking out all the best cities to visit in Morocco in your own (rented) vehicle, that’s probably the only way you’ll be able to visit Zaida. But if you can, it’s worth this interesting look into rural Moroccan life. (It’s on the way to Merzouga and the Sahara from Fez, if you’re heading that way.)

13. Dades Valley

My time in the Dades Valley was such a treat, and because I’m going to recommend you visit a bunch of different places around here, I’m listing the “Dades Valley” as one of the best cities to visit in Morocco instead of picking just one.

Why visit the Dades Valley?

The Dades Valley is a great place to slow your Morocco trip down a bit . There aren’t any must-see sites or must-do adventures; it’s just chill. The people here are some of the nicest and most welcoming I met in all of Morocco (a country filled with nice and welcoming people). The scenery is beautiful and the whole area’s mantra is one of happiness and smiles. It’s such an uplifting place to visit.

What to see and do in the Dades Valley

While here, you can:

• Relax at your riad’s rooftop pool in the sun
• Walk through the impressive Dades Gorge
• Check out the view of the switchbacks from the panoramic viewpoint at Hotel Timzzillite (This famous road was most recently featured in Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation .)
• Visit the Todra Gorge and the lovely city of Tinghir
• Take a leisurely walk through Boulmane Dades and check out the amazing views of the valley from there
• Check out the “monkey fingers” mountains

Great Dades Valley tours

If you want to visit the Dades Valley, you’ll most likely need to take one of Morocco’s awesome multi-day tours that include a visit here. Here are some good ones:

• 3 Days High Atlas Mountains and Sahara Adventure – Day 2 is all about the Dades Valley.
• 3 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga Luxury Camp – This Day 2 is also all Dades Valley.

Where to stay in the Dades Valley

While visiting the Dades Valley I stayed at the Hotel Riad Bahammou and it was one of my favorite Morocco hotels, largely because the staff here is the best I’ve encountered anywhere! The property is huge and super interesting. (Watch my reel of it here !) Plus, the meals here are different from everything else you’ll eat in Morocco. Definitely try this one out for yourself!

Best cities to visit in Morocco: honorable mentions

Depending on how you travel throughout Morocco, you may have the chance to visit some other off-the-beaten-path areas. If you have your own rental car , for instance, think about passing through these cool areas:

I’m recommending a visit to Erfoud specifically for the date market. Best (and most ridiculously affordable) mouthwatering Medjool dates I’ve ever had in my life. I still dream about these dates. I bought a kilo for the equivalent of about $10. Erfoud is on the way to Merzouga / the Sahara from both Fez and Marrakech.

15. Ouirgane

Ouirgane is just a little bit outside Marrakech (less than an hour and a half) and would make a great day trip from Marrakech. You can do a little bit of easy hiking and check out the Ouirgane Dam , one of Morocco’s largest. This day tour from Marrakech covers this cool day trip and includes a traditional lunch.

More info for your Morocco trip

• Hotels : Find great places to stay in Morocco here on Booking.com . (But Expedia and Hotels.com are worth checking out too.)
• Rental car : Check out the best rental car deals in Morocco here.
• Sightseeing : Pick up a Morocco guidebook for all your sightseeing needs.
• Culture : And this Morocco Customs and Culture guide for all the other necessary info.

I hope I’ve been able to help you find some of the best cities to visit in Morocco and sort out your itinerary. Like this post? Have questions about traveling around Morocco? Ask away in the comments below. Have fun in Morocco!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 32 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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The 15 BEST Places to Visit in Morocco (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Planning a trip to North Africa? Don’t miss our complete list of the best places to visit in Morocco!

Some of the best Morocco destinations are already world-famous, though you may not realise.

Morocco is full of rich history, intense culture, breathtaking natural beauty and endless opportunities for travellers to excite the senses. 

Walking through any Moroccan destination, you can smell fresh mint leaves, incense, perfume, leather and smoky coals sizzling underneath a roasting tagine.

You can hear locals speaking Arabic and French, sometimes Spanish in the north. Sultry Arabic music floats from shops and the daily “Call to Prayer” bellows from Mosque speakers five times a day. 

You can feel the heat of northern Africa warming your skin while your feet trod along stone alleyways, or along sandy coastlines.

Your line of vision is full of colourful traditional clothing, patterned pottery and ceramics, towering piles of spices, bustling fruit markets and streets congested with cars, motorbikes and donkeys. 

Travelling through the country you’ll stumble across gorgeous beaches, rugged mountain ranges, golden desert sands, winding roads, farming villages, waterfalls, forests, Mosques, museums, ancient Roman ruins, tanneries, Medinas and so much more. 

With such diversity, it can be overwhelming trying to plan a trip to visit Morocco.

The country is full of famous tourist attractions and hidden gems, but luckily there is something for everyone.

Table of Contents

1) Marrakech

5) casablanca, 7) chefchaouen, 8) al hoceima, 11) essaouira, 12) the atlas mountains, 13. ouarzazate, 14) sahara desert, 15) ouzoud waterfalls, the best places to visit in morocco.

This article lists some of the most iconic and must-see places to see in Morocco.

The destinations are organised into three categories: cities, beach towns, and places of natural beauty.

Hopefully, this list will help you pick the best places to visit in Morocco that suit your travel style, and will persuade you to book a trip to visit Morocco.

The most visited city in Morocco, Marrakech is a bustling hub of travellers and locals alike.

It showcases traditional Moroccan culture in an accessible way for tourists, with a sprawling Medina selling handicrafts and souvenirs and the Instagram-famous Jardin Majorelle boasting gorgeous architecture and landscaping. 

Jema El Fnaa is the main square of Marrakech, though I believe the true charm of the city lies outside this area.

Jema El Fnaa is insanely touristy and locals here exploit animals for tourist photos.

Try to avoid this mess and venture to other areas of Marrakech for a better experience. 

Visit Saadien’s Tombs for 70 Dirhams and marvel at the intricate artwork and design that adorns the tombs of the Moroccan Saadien Dynasty from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Afterward, stroll through the local street market on Derb Demnat Street and indulge in fresh dates, cactus fruits and juicy peaches.

Sip mint tea in a cafe, browse through unique natural remedies in a herbal medicine shop, and enjoy the artwork in the Museum of Photography . 

Marrakech is the perfect gateway into Moroccan culture so it’s a great first stop for travellers. 

Morocco’s capital city is packed with attractions and historical monuments making it one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Visit the Modern Art Museum and National Archaeological Museum for an enlightening insight into Moroccan culture and art.

Or tour the Royal Palace and see where Moroccan royalty lives. 

Other impressive architectural structures include the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and its neighbour, the Hassan Tower , which was meant to be the largest minaret in the world but to this day remain unfinished.

All three of these are located along the Bou Regreg River that snakes through the city. 

After immersing yourself in the history of Rabat, head just south of the city to lounge on Temara Beach or Skirat Beach .

Temara is closer to the city and a bit more accessible.

But Skirat is known as being one of Morocco’s most beautiful and well-maintained beaches.

Known as the cultural capital of Morocco, Fez is famous for its historical significance and its well-preserved traditional culture.

Tourism is on the rise as Fez becomes more well-known.

There are plenty of backpacker hostels, nice hotels, and fancy Riads to suit every traveller.

However, Fez still feels very authentic and travellers may experience a bit of culture shock here. 

Fez’s Medina is the oldest in the world and is said to have over 9,000 streets.

Prepare to get lost in the Medina because it is inevitable. But the sensory overload and cultural insight you’ll find in this maze of streets are well worth the chaos.

Having an offline navigation app like Maps.Me can very extremely helpful to help you find your way out of the Medina.

While gallivanting through the Medina, stop at the Chouara Tannery , the largest tannery in the world.

Here you can watch locals make leather using traditional methods.

Someone will usually hand you a mint sprig as you walk in so you can hold it under your nose and block out some of the strong, pungent aromas of the tannery. 

Venture outside the Medina to see the more modern size of Fez.

Bab Bou Jeloud , or the “Blue Gate,” and the Royal Palace are two very beautiful and well-maintained sights to see in Fez.

Just have an open mind when travelling through Fez and appreciate the authenticity of the city. 

Take a guided tour of the Fez Medina by booking this tour on Get Your Guide !

For anyone travelling to Morocco from southern Spain, this is the first Moroccan city you will experience.

Located on the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is a good transition city between Europe and Africa.

It is a port city on the water, but the beaches aren’t as nice as others in Morocco.

So travellers to Tangier should focus more on the historical and cultural aspects of the city. 

A cultural crossroad, here you can find traditional north African influences in the Old Town and Medina, where the buildings are painted a classy white.

Visit Cafe Hafa , a famous seaside cafe that serves traditional drinks and snacks and offers a lovely view of the ocean.

In the Medina you can also find the Phoenician Tombs, the Old Kasbah, a Kasbah Museum and Dar el Makhzen , a historical masterpiece that used to be a sultans palace but its now a museum of artifacts.

For a local food experience, visit the Berber Farmer’s Market on Thursdays and Sundays for fresh produce.

Or venture to the massive Grand Socco Market , open every day.

There is also a New Town known as Ville Nouvelle , which exudes a classy French atmosphere with its intricate architecture and spacious boulevards full of shops.

Place De France is the beating heart of the Ville Nouvelle, and this is one of the best places to visit in Morocco for finding trendy cafes and restaurants. 

READ MORE: Plan your trip to experience Porto, Portugal

Though Rabat is the country’s capital city, Casablanca is the biggest city with a population of about 3.4 million.

This busy coastal city is one of the more developed places in Morocco, with a thriving entertainment scene and growing business sector. 

As Casablanca is one of the more modern cities in Morocco, here you can find international cuisine, casinos, nightclubs, high-end shopping and one of the world’s largest shopping centres, the Morocco Mall . 

In contrast to the Old Medina, the city also has a New Medina built in the 1930s, called the Quartier Habous .

This New Medina is much cleaner and more refined than the Old Medina, though it showcases modern European influence rather than authenticity. 

Casablanca’s ocean isn’t the nicest for swimming.

But a nice walk or jog along the Corniche , or oceanfront boulevard is a great way to enjoy the ocean breeze.

On this seaside sidewalk you can find the Hassan II Mosque , arguably the best attraction in Casablanca.

As one of the largest mosques in the world, the impeccable design and sheer size of this religious landmark is a feast for the eyes. 

Because of the classic film of the same name, Casablanca is also perhaps the most well known and best places to visit in Morocco.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Meknes is the perfect destination for history lovers and those with a cultural curiosity.

This is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco and was a Moroccan capital city in the 17th Century.

Because Meknes is less popular than nearby Fez, travellers can revel in the town’s historical significance without all the crowds of the bigger cities. 

The Medina of Meknes dates back to the 9th Century and is guarded by the gorgeously tiled Bar Mansour Gate .

Wander through here for a look into Morocco’s past and indulge in a few local handicrafts.

Stop by the Meknes Museum to explore colourful Moroccan art including rugs and textiles, pottery and ceramics, and clothing and jewellery. 

Other highlights of Meknes include the Museum of Moroccan Art , also known as Dar Jamai , the Borj Belkari Museum of Pottery, The Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail and the Royal Stables Ruins .

One of Morocco’s most famous and well-preserved ruins, Volubilis , lies just north of Meknes and makes an awesome day trip from the city.

Nestled against the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen may be the most picturesque place in Morocco.

Travellers flock here from all over the world to photograph the “Blue Pearl of Morocco,” as this small city is often called because of its blue-painted dwellings. 

Strolling through Chefchaouen feels like a dream because of all the blue paint.

Whether it be pale pastel blue or deep royal blue, the hue mixes with the graceful architecture to make every single street look like something from a postcard. 

You will understand why it is one of the best places to visit in Morocco once you spend a few hours wandering through the city.

The most scenic place in the city is the Old Town, and the most photographed spots here are “ Blue Street, ” Place El Haouta and El Asri Street .

All of these reveal some gorgeous displays of blue paint and incredible design.

So it’s definitely worth waiting amongst the crowds to see these sights.

If you explore early in the morning, you’ll beat most of the crowds. 

To see the more local side of Chefchaouen, venture anywhere outside the crowded Old Town and you’ll find super cheap cafes and local markets.

These will be better for your wallet than eating in one of the many tourist restaurants. 

Check out this post for more great things to do in Chefchaouen !

Located on the Mediterranean Sea, Al Hoceima is the perfect beach getaway for those travelling through the north of Morocco.

The Spanish helped to develop the city in the early 1900s, and nowadays Al Hoceima serves as an important port town and has a thriving fishing industry. 

The beaches here are some of the nicest and cleanest in the country.

Quemado Beach is just a short walk from the city centre. Calabonita Beach is known for its crystal clear, turquoise water.

Other lovely beaches in the area include Thara Youssef, Sfiha, Matadero, and Souani. 

Al Hoceima is also situated on the northern edge of the Rif Mountains, so there are lots of rugged cliffs to enhance the scenery.

Al Hoceima National Park has lots of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and admiring the dramatic, seemingly untouched natural beauty. 

This lesser-known Moroccan coastal city is ideal for surfers and beach bums.

Safi isn’t very touristy, which is great for experiencing the local culture.

The Medina is full of shops selling gorgeous ceramics and traditional cafes selling fresh sardines, sugary mint teas and hearty tagines. 

The Main Beach consists of a massive stretch of golden sand framed by a long sidewalk and hipster cafes.

During winter, the waves attract surfers from all over the globe, and all year round the water is cold and refreshing.

Drive about 15 minutes north of Safi Main Beach to Lalla Fatna Beach for a more secluded sunbathing spot.

You will notice at the beaches that most local women dress conservatively.

If you are a woman, there are no concrete rules as to what you can and can’t wear at the beach.

But you may choose to cover up as much as possible to blend in with the locals and show respect for their culture.

READ MORE: 25 things to know to help you plan your trip to Iran

Asilah is a cultural melting pot residing on the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Here you can find fortifications built by the Portuguese, an Old Town with Spanish influence, and whitewashed buildings that resemble those of Greece. 

Through all this multiculturalism, the Moroccan charm still shines through with the traditional markets of the city.

Thursday, in particular, is the busiest market day, where local artists showcase their work and travellers can shop for traditional goods and souvenirs.

Art lovers can also visit the famous art gallery known as Aplanos , or attend the Annual Arts Festival in August. 

To enjoy the ocean, the two closest beaches to the city centre are Asilah Beach , about 4km north of the city center, and Paradise Beach , about 7km south of the city center.

The extra distance to Paradise Beach may be worth it, as this beach is bigger and less crowded than Asilah beach. 

This charming coastal town is a popular day trip from Marrakech, though some travellers prefer to stay there a few days.

Previously known as Mogador, this port town has a rich history in the Caravan Trade Route.

Locals from the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains used to travel to Essaouira to export their goods to the world.

Although nowadays the city has become more of a relaxed tourist destination and one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

The city is framed by fortifications that King Mohammed III of the 18th Century built to protect the important trade center.

Climb up these walls to feel the fierce Atlantic wind on your skin and look out over the ocean and the nearby beach.

Make sure to explore the colourful and charismatic Medina, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

And check out the local fish market if you can stand the pungent seafood smell. 

Whether you are driving to Essaouira or taking a day trip from Marrakech, you will most likely pass goats in trees on the outskirts of the city.

This area of Morocco is sprawling with Argan trees, and goats literally climb into the trees to eat the nuts, seeds and fruits.

You may need to tip the local farmer who owns the goats if you want to take photos. But it’s worth it to capture this outrageous sight. 

Book your trip to Essaouira today on Get Your Guide !

A trip to Morocco would be incomplete without exploring the breathtaking Atlas Mountain Range.

Many people view Morocco as hot and arid. But at the high altitudes of the Atlas you can find cooler temperatures and sometimes even snow. 

The Atlas Mountains are full of little Berber villages and towns, but Imlil makes a great starting point for adventures into the area.

Imlil is easily accessible from Marrakech by a shared taxi. And you will find that there are a few cheap hostels and lots of nice guesthouses for travelers. 

From Imlil you can begin the multi-day trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal , the highest mountain in northern Africa.

There are also many day hikes in Toubkal National Park available from Imlil, including a circuit around the hills of the village and a full day hike to a waterfall.

Whether you choose a few shorter hikes or one long trek, you are guaranteed to find majestic mountain peaks, tiny remote villages with friendly locals, and lots of wildlife including sheep, donkeys and goats. 

Asni is another nearby village to Imlil, which is a bit smaller and less touristy.

You can also use this town as a base for hiking Toubkal National Park.

Oukaimeden is another popular destination in the Atlas Mountains, as it is one of the few skiing destinations in Morocco. 

On the drive into the mountains from Marrakech, you will most likely travel along the Tizi n’ Tichka Pass , which is a heart-stopping, winding road slicing straight through the cliffs.

The drive is not for the fainthearted, but the views and stunning and you can always trust your local Moroccan drivers.

Visit the Atlas Mountain Range with a camel ride, only found on Get Your Guide

Located in between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, many desert tours pass through here on the way to the Sahara.

If you aren’t doing an organized tour, try and venture out here to the “Hollywood of Morocco.”

The area’s rugged, dusty desert-like landscape filled with kasbahs, palaces and rustic dwellings attracts filmmakers from all over the world. 

Movies and shows filmed in Ouarzazate include Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Ben Hur, Mummy, The Hills Have Eyes and Kingdom of Heaven.

You can take a guided tour of Atlas Film Studios to learn about the film making process. Plus there is also a Cinema Museum that showcases artwork used in films. 

About 30km northwest of Ouarzazate lies another traditional Moroccan hilltop town also used for filming movies.

Aït Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and few local families still live in the tiny village, selling their traditional souvenirs to tourists.

About 130km northeast from Ouarzazate is the scenic Dades Valley .

Though it’s a bit far from Ouarzazate, it is on the route to the Sahara. So if you are driving past it anyways you should definitely stop here.

The Dades River has carved winding curves and valleys into the arid cliffside, and Todra Gorge , in particular, is a popular photo opportunity here. 

Some people visit Morocco solely to see the Sahara Desert .

As the largest hot desert on the planet, the Sahara is truly a natural phenomenon.

Morocco is perhaps the most convenient gateway into this sea of sand. 

The easiest way to visit the desert is to book a tour from Marrakech.

Although it is possible to do on your own through public transport and finding accommodation in one of the nearby towns. 

Most tours include round trip transport from Marrakech, which takes about 10 hours so be prepared for a long day of travel.

But upon reaching the desert, you can enjoy camel treks, free time to explore the dunes, traditional meals, stargazing, and wonderful hospitality. 

Merzouga is one of the most popular desert towns as it’s located right next to the massive Erg Chebbi Dunes .

Though this spot is very close to the Algerian Border, country lines don’t seem to matter at all as you gaze across seemingly endless ripples of soft golden sand. 

Another location for seeing the Sahara is the desert town of Mhamid , which leads to the Erg Chingaga Dunes.

Both dunes are beautiful, though the latter is a bit less touristy. No doubt the Sahara Desert is one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Book a 3-day Safari Desert today !

While staying in Marrakech, escape the city and venture to Ouzoud Waterfalls.

This area is very remote and there is no direct public transport from Marrakech, so the easiest option is to book a day tour.

For about 200-250 Dirhams, you can book a day trip with any of the countless tour agencies in Marrakech, and you’ll get round-trip transportation in a comfy minivan. 

This is a full-day adventure, as the drive takes about 3 hours each way and you’ll have a few hours to relax at the falls.

Once you step off the bus, a local will try to convince you to pay for a guided tour.

This isn’t necessary as it’s very easy to explore the falls yourself. 

The waterfalls are simply stunning, with multiple huge cascades thundering town towards the El-Abid River Gorge.

Stairs lead up and down the canyon of the falls so you can walk to the bottom and swim in the little pools at the base of the falls.

The same stairs lead up to a lookout point, where you can take in the view of the whole waterfall and watch the adorable Barbary Monkeys swing in the trees. 

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance before your trip to Morocco!

We recommend World Nomads. Use this form to get your free quote today.

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The ultimate guide to new zealand’s south island in winter, 5 best adventure activities in taranaki, new zealand, related posts, 17 awesome things to do in wanaka (epic 2024 guide), 4 thoughts on “the 15 best places to visit in morocco (2024 edition)”.

Such great info, so helpful. We are a 70 year old active couple, is it safe for us to travel alone, as we do in Europe, or should we do a small tour around Morocco. We do usually do tours, except when we toured India, but that again was only the two of us with a driver

Cheers Jill

Nice post! Really enjoyed reading… Thanks for sharing with us!

Amazing blog, rich with innumerable info for any newcomers, thank you for sharing with us.

It seems hard to limit the best places to visit in Morocco because there are so many beautiful places and different cultures to discover.

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Guide to Moroccan Riads

Things to Do in Morocco

Things to Do in Marrakesh

Guide to the Marrakesh Medina

Best Beaches

Annual Events

Things to Do in Fez

Things to Do in Meknes

Visiting Chefchaouen

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting Around Morocco

Places to Visit

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Morocco

Although narrowing Morocco 's plethora of incredible destinations down to a top 10 list is difficult, no trip to the North African nation would be complete without a visit to at least one of its four imperial cities. In particular, Marrakesh, Fez, and Meknes are packed full of colorful bazaars, breathtaking palaces, and bustling town squares.

Morocco is also famous for its natural beauty, from the golden beaches of seaside towns like Essaouira and Asilah to the magnificent arid landscapes of the Sahara Desert. Here, the possibilities for adventure are endless. Sign up for a camel-back trek  through the Sahara, climb North Africa 's highest peak or head to Dades Valley for a few nights in a traditional ​ kasbah . 

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Situated at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, the imperial city of Marrakesh is noisy, atmospheric and full of history. There's a lot to see and do, from sampling traditional Moroccan street food at the nightly market in Djemma el Fna ; to shopping for spices and artisan jewelry in the bustling souks of the medina. Attractions like the Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace give an insight into the city's rich history. For the most authentic Marrakesh experience, consider staying in a traditional riad within the medina walls.​

Medieval Fez served as Morocco's capital for more than 400 years and is still an important religious and cultural center. The old walled part of the city, known as Fes el-Bali, was founded in the 9th century and is recognized by UNESCO for the historical importance of its Idrisid dynasty architecture. It is best explored on foot and includes the Al Quaraouiyine mosque and its associated university, which is the oldest in the world (dating back to 859 AD). Other highlights include the Chaouwara Tanneries, the Merenid Tombs and the Mellah or Jewish Quarter. 

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Situated on Morocco's Atlantic coast, Essaouira is a great place to get away from the heat and bustle of the bigger cities. In the 1960s, the seaside town was a popular hangout for icons like Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley. The beach is well-known for kitesurfing, while the town charms with narrow streets, red-and-blue-painted houses and ramparts that overlook the busy harbor. Essaouira is known for its quality seafood restaurants and hosts the three-day Gnaoua World Music Festival in June.

Chefchaouen

Nestled amidst the scenic peaks of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a small town in a big landscape. It is a center for creativity, attracting painters and photographers with its clear light, serene blue-painted houses (and its reputation as the cannabis capital of Morocco). Browse local arts and crafts in the quaint shops of the medina, enjoy a drink amidst the architecture of Uta el-Hammam square or sample fine Moroccan cuisine at a riad restaurant. The surrounding countryside is full of beautiful hiking trails.

Located on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dune sea, the small town of Merzouga acts as a gateway to the dramatic wilderness of the Sahara Desert. Many operators offer camel safaris, which last anywhere from a few hours to several days. This is the most authentic way to explore the Saharan landscape of knife-edged dunes, blazing blue skies and rare desert wildlife. Most include a visit to a traditional Bedouin camp. Adrenaline junkies can also sign up for quad bike tours, sand-boarding and sand-skiing.

Jebel Toubkal

Jebel Toubkal, situated in the High Atlas Mountains, is the highest peak in North Africa. At 13,671 feet/4,167 meters, the trek to the snow-dusted summit is no easy feat but the breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile. While you can make it to the summit and back to the town of Imlil in a day, it's a good idea to allow at least three days. This way, you have enough time to acclimatize to the effects of the high altitude. ​The mountain is also just 81 kilometers from Ouikaimeden , one of the only ski resorts in Africa.

Meknes is smaller and more laid-back than Marrakesh and Fez yet it has all the charms you'd expect of an imperial city including a well-preserved medina filled with easily navigable souks. Meknes was the capital during the rule of 17th-century Sultan Moulay Ismail and is a showcase of Moroccan architecture complete with huge gates and impressive carvings. History buffs will love top attractions like the Royal Stables and the Museum of Moroccan Art (Dar Jamai), while the Roman ruins at nearby Volubilis are well worth a visit.

Dades Valley

The Dades Valley runs between the Jebel Sarhro and High Atlas mountain ranges and offers some of Morocco's most spectacular scenery. Its cliffs transition from ocher to rose to deep red with the changing light and in some places tower more than 1500 feet above the verdant oases of the valley floor. The best way to appreciate the valley and its Berber villages is on foot, especially when you reach the magnificent Todra Gorge . Traditional forts, or kasbahs, can be found at regular intervals and many now double as luxury hotels.

Tangier is the gateway to Africa for those traveling by sea from southern Europe. While the city doesn't have quite the charm it did in the 1940s and 1950s when you could rub shoulders with the likes of Truman Capote and Tennessee Williams, there's still a lot to see. Highlights include the medina, the Kasbah Museum and the French-inspired Ville Nouvelle. The harbor also offers interesting views of the Strait of Gibraltar and distant Spain, while a short drive away from the city center reveals some pretty beaches.

Situated on Morocco's North Atlantic coast, seaside  Asilah is very popular with Moroccan vacationers who flock to its sandy beaches during the hot summer months. The city walls are covered in colorful murals and the houses are painted white, evoking the white-washed towns of the  Greek Islands . Every summer (usually July), artists, musicians and street performers converge in Asilah for the town's vibrant annual Arts Festival. The city's impressive ramparts are a relic of Portuguese colonial rule dating back to the 15th century.

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• Attractions
• From Casablanca
• From Marrakech
• From Tangier
• Sightseeing

Morocco is a huge country, extending over 2,000km (some 1,250 miles) from Tangier to the southern border with Mauritania. But fortunately for the visitor, the famous best cities to visit in Morocco are concentrated in the northern third, between Tangier and Agadir. It would be impossible to see all that Morocco has to offer on a single trip, so it pays to be selective our list of this article should help.

The top major cities in Morocco for most first time visitors must be Morocco’s four magnificent Imperial Cities Fez, Meknès, Rabat, and Marrakech. It’s here that the splendor and magnificence of past Moroccan empires are concentrated. The independent traveler can easily reach them all by train or bus.

Tangier Morocco is the point of arrival for the majority of package tourists, and who take the ferry from Spain or Gibraltar. This is s where we start our tour of Morocco, too.

Map of the best cities to visit in Morocco

Tangiers (tanger).

At the northern tip of Morocco and at the meeting point of Africa and Europe. Today is the best city to visit in Morocco, it still keeps an international flavor because of the heavy tourist traffic which crosses the straits and lands here.

At the center of the modern city is Place de France and Boulevard Pasteur, Cafés and restaurants, bookstores and travel agencies are all within a few blocks of the square. Sour AL Meêgazine just out of Place de France has a fine view of the harbor and the Spanish mainland.

The médina, covering a hillside, is a maze of narrow streets, passages, and blind alleys. As it is not all that large, perhaps the best way to explore it is simply to lose yourself.

The kasbah of Tangiers seems impregnable from land or sea. No visit to Tangier is completed without a visit the Caves of Hercules and Cap Spartel.

Chefchaouen blue city of Morocco

This blue city of Morocco comes as a surprise. From its dramatic location with rocky mountain peaks, this little blue town surveys the hills around and the valleys below and bleu houses surround the town itself. A quick look at Chefchaouen reveals its potential as the best cities to visit in Morocco! For here a typical Moroccan médina co-exists with a classic Spanish town plaza complete with topiary arches, grape arbors, and tiled benches around a central fountain. The town hall and church are also here on the Plaza Mohammed V.

Up from Plaza el Makhzen, with its painted arcades and small shops, is a centuries-old kasbah, recently restored are a haven of tranquillity. The main place is Place Outa el-Hammam, where they are the stunning Riad Restaurant and cafés.

Souks and bazaars abound in the médina, offering the products of local carpet factories, and also polished stones gathered from the surrounding hills.

Must Read: The Blue City Of Morocco “Chefchaouen” | Top Guide 

Along the road to Rabat, 45km (28 miles) south of Tangier, lies the charming town of Asilah. Just off the main road and right on the beach, Asilah is one of the famous best cities to visit in Morocco to relax and unwind. Is a picture-postcard Atlantic fishing port, complete with an impressive kasbah. Each July the town hosts an international festival, one of the highlights of the cultural year.

The main palace built in the 20 th century within the Kasbah walls is open during the festival. But remains closed to visitors the rest of the year, The Medina is worth exploring at any time, as colorful painted murals adorn the walls of the houses.

Just outside the town walls, down by the sea, are several small seafood restaurants, with tables on the street and in a garden. The daily catch, fresh from the boats in the nearby harbor. North of the harbor of Asilah, there are the best beaches in Morocco stretche almost halfway to Tangier.

Must Read:   Best things to do in Asilah Morocco In 2021 |  Ultimate travel guide

Agadir one of the Best city to visit in south-west Morocco

  Agadir is Morocco’s outstanding tourist center. But bigger developments are planned to provide 50,000 beds in 5 sites! On the huge bay between Cap Chir in the north and Oued Massa in the south to receive more than 1 million tourists. Due attention is to be given to the preservation of the coast, at least in the plans.

Once you have finished basking in the sun and swimming in the beautiful bay, you can visit what was once the kasbah or the Founti quarter.

The road following the Oued Sous to Taroudant lies through the villages of Inezgane and Oulad Teima; deliciously perfumed in spring from the orange groves which line its path.

Must Read: 11 Best Things to do in Agadir Morocco | Ultimate Full Guide

Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

The town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun occupies two conical hills on the western flank of Jebel Zerhoun and takes its name from the father of Fez’s founder, Moulay Idriss I. who established Morocco’s first dynasty. He lies buried in the mausoleum, whose green-tiled roof you can see on the saddle between the two hills. Every year, usually in September, a pilgrimage is held in his honor in the dusty open space just mentioned. Because the town is still held sacred, modernization has made relatively very few inroads.

Fez the most beautiful cities in morocco

Fez is one of the best imperial cities to visit in Morocco occupies a position of outstanding beauty, surrounded on every side by hills. The oldest part of the medina, Fès el Bali (Old Fez) On the far bank, Fès Jedid (New Fez) was new in 1276, and the third part of Fes is Ville nouvelle (modern city). Fez medina proclaimed a World Heritage Site “UNESCO” in 1980.

Fez is known by the first university in the world al Quaraouiyine “al-Karaouine”; Apart from religious studies, which have always been of primary importance! The courses offered included mathematics, astronomy, law, philosophy, music, and medicine.

The town, perhaps inevitably, became the focal point for the fine craftsmanship of every sort! In pottery, metalwork, jewelry, leatherwork, and textiles. Its products are equal or superior to any in Morocco.

Must Read: Best 15 Things to do in Fez (Fes) Morocco for 2021| Full Guide

The contrast between Fez and Meknès is striking. Though set in rich farmlands, the latter has not really developed or prospered greatly since independence-its new town was one of the chief centers of French colonization. Seen from a distance, the medina, separated from the modern suburbs by the deep gorge of the Oued Boufekrane; seems pleasant enough with its many minarets and tiled roofs, but without much real identity. Within the old town, there is a rather tumbledown and dingy atmosphere. But what one notices above all are the walls, enormous and decayed, stretching for more than 15 miles and dwarfing the adjacent medina. It is within these walls that the uniqueness of Meknès lies the Dar al Kabir, the great imperial “city-within-a-city” of Moulay Ismail.

Must Read: Best Things to See and Do In Meknes, Morocco

Rabat the capital city of Morocco

Rabat is the last best Imperial city to visit in Morocco and is the first modern city.

Rabat was an important town under the Almohads, who called it Ribat el Fath (Ribat of Victory). Walls were raised, the Oudaïa kasbah provided for defense, and the Hassan tower was the beginning of a grand mosque.

As the capital city of modern Morocco, Rabat has many attractive public buildings and is characterized by an easy-going, pleasant atmosphere “Avenue Mohammed V”. No visit to the Moroccan capital is completed without a visit to the mausoleum of Mohammed V. This tomb was next to the ruins of the Hassan mosque, the minaret called the Hassan Tower.

The old town of Rabat “the Médina” is one of the more sedate ones, less exotic than the medina of other cities.

Must Read:   Best Amazing Things To Do & See in Rabat Morocco In 2021

Casablanca economic capital of Morocco

Morocco’s biggest city enfolds the small seaside Medina, close to the port, as much a historical relic as a living part of the town. It appears as Anfa for the first time in the 12th century, but this name now applies to the elegant western suburb on a hill overlooking the sea. Casablanca is one of the best major cities to visit in morocco is known by The Hassan II Mosque the largest one in Africa.

The city centers on the huge Place des Nations Unies, whose lovely garden sets off a fountain throwing multi-colored jets high in the air. Around are a number of fine buildings in pleasing neo-Moroccan style: the head-office of the Banque du Maroc, the Town Hall, whose 50-meter (165-foot) high tower affords a fine view over the whole vast agglomeration the Law Courts and Central Post Office. The Law Courts are particularly interesting for their elaborate and colorful traditional-style decorations.

Ifran and Azrou Into the Middle Atlas 

In the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas are several towns worthy of exploration. Azrou 67 kilometres from Meknès, is the perfect place to get away from city throngs. Built on a hillside in the forest, it is famous city in Morocco not only for its peace and quiet, but also for its carpet weaving cooperative. The Berber people called Beni M’Guild set up their looms in a central handicrafts market, and you can watch berber Moroccan rugs being made as you shop for the finished product.

Ifrane, is the most beautiful city in morocco, called  “ Switzerland of   Morocco ” 71 kilometres from Meknès and 11 from Azrou. Is a more active place than Azrou because of its winter-sports facilities, but you needn’t visit it only in winter. The many good hotels do a booming business on summer weekends as well (best to reserve in advance) as city folk escape to the cool. fragrant breezes in the mountains.

Must Read:   10 Best Places To Visit in Morocco in 2021

Marrakesh (Marrakech) the most beautiful cities to visit in Morocco

In Marrakesh the snow capped peaks of the High Atlas float above a band of cloud. is the south’s commercial centre, a modern city with wide, straight boulevards carrying an easy flow of traffic. Cars, buses, motorbikes and fiacres “carriage” all move together along Avenue Mohammed V. Café-sitters along the avenue regard tourists with mild curiosity.

Near the eastern end of Avenue Mohammed V stands Marrakesh’s famed symbol, the Koutoubia minaret. It is the finest of the 12th-century Almohad minarets.

Marrakech Is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco, is known by Jemaa el Fna is the heart of traditional Marrakesh and is now merely a tourist domain. There are lots of tourists both Moroccan and foreign, In the course of a single afternoon and evening, you can buy a dress, have a meal, listen to the preacher, watch snake charmer…

In the legendary Palmeraie or in the medina there are the best luxury hotels in Marrakech Morocco.

No visit to the Red city is completed without visit Menara garden, Jardin Majorelle, Bahia palace, Saadian tombs …

Must Read: Marrakech, Morocco | Important Things To Know Before You Go

Essaouira “Mogadore”

Essaouira (175 km. from Marrakesh) is a living memory of pirate days when Spain, Portugal and England vied with Moroccan swashbucklers for control of the coasts. An attractive beach on the south side is served by several good hotels and restaurants. At the west town end of the beach is the fishing harbour and the skala (battery) left from pirate times. A main street runs straight through town from the customs house near the fishing harbour to the Bâb Doukkala. Once you’ve walked past all the shops, through the gates and under the arches along the thoroughfare, you’ve experienced a good deal of Essaouira’s daily life.

The best time to visit Morocco and Essaouira is in June when the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Morocco be there, and receive more than 500,000 visitors.

In Essaouira there are several stunning windy beaches, which make it the number 1 surfers destination.

Must Read:   Things to do in Essaouira, Morocco.

Ouarzazate, Hollywood  of Africa.

As you descend on the far side of the pass you feel the hot breath of the desert. Down in the valley the first ksour appear, fortified villages with pink mud walls, now crumbling in picturesque ruin. Finally, 204km (128 miles) out of Marrakech, you reach Ouarzazate one of the best desert cities to visit in Morocco. A new city, Ouarzazate, Morocco was built in 1928 as a garrison post on the threshold of the Sahara. Today it is best known as a desert resort and movie location; the films Lawrence of Arabia and The Sheltering Sky were shot nearby at Aït Benhaddou . The way east leads along the Dadès Valley to the spectacular Dadès and Todra gorges, while to the south lies the beautiful Drâa Valley, Zagora and, ultimately, the sands of the Sahara Desert.

Must Read:   Berbers of Morocco | Origin, history, culture, lifestyle..

Dakhla one of the best cities to visit in south of Morocco

Dakhla is a stunning town in the Atlantic Coast south of Morocco, located 532 km south of Laâyoune. It is a place where its beautiful beaches and sand dunes form a magnificent picture. Dakhla like Essaouira is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco to relax and practice water sports, for Professional and amateur kite surfers windsurfers and surfers. this pearl of Sahara is ranked world’s top place for wave and wind sports, the principal spots are La Sarga, Point d’Or, Arish and Foumbouir.

In Dakhla there are authentic bungalows and traditional comp tent next to the famous lagoon; And you can experience Moroccan Hammams , Spa, and massage by organic products (soap, Argan oil).

Tetouan the white dove of Morocco

Tetouan is Located in the north of Morocco, and situated 64 Km (40 miles) South of Tangier.

The main attraction for tourist s is the charming Medina, with crowded souks and tiny, vine trellised squares in stark contrast to the Spanish new town, built on a formal grid of streets. The Medina also harbors an arts museum and an archaeological museum.

Must Read:   Things to know about Morocco country

FAQ for Top Cities to Visit in Morocco

The top cities to visit in Morocco offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Explore the vibrant streets of Marrakech, wander through the historic medina of Fes, discover the coastal charm of Essaouira, immerse yourself in the blue-hued beauty of Chefchaouen, and marvel at the ancient architecture in Casablanca.

Marrakech is a must-visit city in Morocco due to its enchanting blend of tradition and modernity. Dive into the bustling souks of the Medina, visit the iconic Jardin Majorelle, experience the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and indulge in the city’s diverse culinary scene. The vibrant colors, historical sites, and warm hospitality make Marrakech an unforgettable destination.

To explore the historic medina in Fes, consider hiring a local guide. The labyrinthine streets can be overwhelming, but a knowledgeable guide will lead you through the hidden gems, including the renowned tanneries, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, and the exquisite Bou Inania Madrasa. Wear comfortable shoes, embrace the sensory experience, and get lost in the medieval charm of Fes.

Essaouira, with its coastal allure, offers unique experiences for visitors seeking a different side of Morocco. Enjoy windsurfing or kite surfing on the Atlantic waves, explore the well-preserved medina and its Portuguese fortifications, and savor freshly caught seafood at the bustling fish market. The laid-back atmosphere and artistic vibe make Essaouira a haven for those looking to unwind by the sea.

While exploring Chefchaouen in a day is possible, it’s recommended to spend more time to fully appreciate its beauty. If you have only a day, prioritize wandering through the iconic blue-washed streets, visiting the historic Kasbah, and hiking to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views. Don’t forget to shop for unique handicrafts and local specialties in the charming medina.

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16 Best Places to Visit in Morocco: Cities, National Parks, & More!

Julia November 10, 2023 Morocco Leave a Comment

Find the most popular places to visit in Morocco, from amazing cities to stunning natural beauty. They’ll help you plan a Moroccan itinerary that hits all the highlights.

Morocco is a country of stark contrasts. You’ll find ancient traditions and modern life exist side-by-side. Whether you’re wandering through the souks of Marrakech, getting lost in the maze-like medina of Fes, or relaxing on the beaches of Essaouira, Morocco has something for everyone.

What makes Morocco truly special is its rich history, with centuries-old kasbahs and a unique blend of cultures. And let’s not forget the mouthwatering Moroccan cuisine.

Join us as we introduce you to the best places to visit in Morocco, including cities, national parks, and other amazing places. Each place offers its own distinct charm and experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your trip to Morocco.

Disclosure:  Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

Best Cities in Morocco

From the lively streets of Marrakech to the historic charm of Fes, these amazing Moroccan cities are where you’ll uncover the heart and soul of the country. Let’s dive into each city to uncover its unique character and the adventures it has to offer.

The Red City of Morocco

Marrakech, sometimes spelled Marrakesh, is one of the most famous and best cities in Morocco. It’s offers a perfect combination of history and culture. Starting in the historic medina of Marrakech, you can wander through a maze of narrow streets, shop for traditional crafts in the souks, and admire architectural wonders, like the Bahia Palace.

Don’t miss the bustling Djemaa el-Fna square – particularly at sunset. Here you’ll find street performers, food stalls, and henna artists hard at work creating an atmosphere that hits all of your senses. Make sure to visit the Majorelle Garden for an escape from the sensory overload that Marrakech can bring.

For a uniquely Moroccan experience, I highly recommend staying in a traditional riad in the medina. It will keep you central while giving you a peaceful place to rest from the city life outside the riad.

Check out: 5 Top Things to Do in Marrakech for a Memorable Trip

The Cultural Heart of Morocco

Fes, also spelled Fez, is a city steeped in history and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s well-preserved medieval medina is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and amazing architecture. You may want to take a tour of the medina to help you navigate to the best sights as you’re sure to get lost on your own!

Make sure to explore the Bou Inania Madrasa, the tanneries, and the souks. You may also want tovisit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in the 9th century, to learn about its history. To complete the Fez experience, taste the local cuisine, especially the famous Fes tajine.

Due to its maze-like medina, the best way to visit Fes is with a guided tour – trust me. It’s really the only way to fully appreciate the historical significance of the city. If that’s not for you, don’t worry. There’s also something fun about meandering through alley after alley discovering hidden gems on your own!

Morocco’s Modern Metropolis

Casablanca is Morocco’s most modern city. It’s known for the impressive Hassan II Mosque, perched above the Atlantic Ocean. Take a guided tour of the mosque and its stunning interior. Stroll along the Corniche, a seaside promenade, and enjoy the beach. Visit the Royal Palace and explore the trendy neighborhoods with their modern architecture and lively nightlife.

Chefchaouen

The Blue Pearl of Morocco

Chefchaouen is a picturesque mountain town famous for its blue-painted buildings. (It’s one of my personal favorites!) Enjoy leisurely walks through the medina. Hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views. Explore the local artisan shops. And definitely take your camera with you!

Chefcaouen is also a fantastic place for hiking. There are nearby trails that offer beautiful views of the Rif Mountains. You’ll also want to try the regional cuisine, like goat cheese and olives. Admittedly, I never realized olives could be so delicious when they are fresh!

You can also visit Chefchaouen as a day trip from Fes if you don’t want to spend hours trying to arrange your own transportation. Check out this Chefchaouen day tour.

Plan your trip with: The Ultimate Travel Guide for Chefchaouen: The Famous Blue City in Morocco

Morocco’s Windy Coastal Gem

Another one of the top cities in Morocco is Essaouira. It’s a coastal city with a medina, but it is best known for its beautiful beaches and more laid back atmosphere. While you’re there, stroll through the medina’s narrow streets. They’re lined with art galleries, boutiques, and seafood restaurants.

Visit the Skala de la Ville for ocean views and explore the historic fortifications. If you like water sports, try your hand at windsurfing and kiteboarding. You can also enjoy camel rides on the beach and relaxing by the sea.

Make visiting Essaouira simple with a guided day trip from Marrakech . Best of all, transportation and logistics are taken area of for you!

The Capital of Morocco

In Rabat, Morocco’s capital, you can explore the Royal Palace, the ancient Kasbah of the Udayas, and the Hassan Tower. The Tower is a symbol of an unfinished mosque dating back to the 12th century.

You’ll also want to take a walk along the Bou Regreg River and enjoy the Andalusian Gardens. Make sure to sample traditional Moroccan dishes at the city’s many restaurants, and consider visiting the nearby archaeological site of Chellah.

Best Natural Wonders and National Parks in Morocco

To continue exploring the amazing places in Morocco, let’s take a look at Morocco’s natural wonders. They show just how amazing nature can be. From the golden sands of the Sahara Desert to the dramatic gorges of Todra and the valleys of the Atlas Mountains, these landscapes are meant to be explored.

The Atlas Mountains

Morocco’s Majestic Mountain Range

The Atlas Mountains offer a breathtaking natural landscape and tons of outdoor activities. One of the most popular activities in Morocco’s High Atlas and Ourika Valley is hiking as you’ll be able to see more views than those sticking to the roads and cities.

In the winter, destinations like Imlil and Oukaimeden provide opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. While you’re in the Atlas Mountains, make sure to experience Berber culture by staying in a traditional mountain village, enjoying local cuisine, and participating in cultural activities, like rug weaving.

You can easily visit the Atlas Mountains with a full day hiking tour from Marrakech or on a more laid back day trip from Marrakech – no hiking necessary!

The Sahara Desert

The Golden Dunes of Morocco

The Sahara Desert is one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders and was a must visit for me. I highly recommend taking a camel trek or 4×4 tour into the dunes of Merzouga or Erg Chebbi. Both of these location offer the opportunity to watch the sunrise or sunset over the vast sand dunes.

Ultimately, I suggest doing a multiple day trip to the Sahara Desert. This allows you to spend the night in a desert camp, enjoying traditional music and stargazing. You haven’t seen the stars if you haven’t seen them from a desert!

Check out this amazing 3-Day Desert Safari from Marrakech which will take you into the heart of the Merzouga dunes.

Read more: How to Get from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert

The Dades Valley

The Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs

The Dades Valley, also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” is a spectacular region of Morocco characterized by deep gorges and oases. Here you can drive along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” and visit the Todra Gorge for stunning rock formations.

By exploring the Dades and Todra Valleys on foot, you can really appreciate the unique landscapes and local culture.

Todra Gorge

The Grand Canyon of Morocco

As mentioned above, Todra Gorge is a remarkable natural wonder in the High Atlas Mountains near the town of Tinerhir (Tinghir). This narrow canyon is surrounded by towering cliffs making it a prime location for rock climbers and hikers.

Enjoy a challenging hike through the gorge or opt for a more leisurely walk along the riverbed, surrounded by towering walls of rock. The breathtaking scenery makes it a must-visit destination in Morocco for nature enthusiasts.

Ouzoud Waterfalls

Morocco’s Cascading Natural Beauty

Ouzoud Waterfalls, located near the village of Ouzoud, are the most famous waterfalls in Morocco. Here you can take a scenic hike down to the base of the falls and board a boat ride for a close-up view. You can also spot Barbary macaques in the area.

Want to visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls? This amazing tour to the Ouzoud Waterfalls includes a guided hike and boat trip from Marrakech.

Need a Guidebook for Morocco?

Other Must-Visit Places in Morocco

Beyond the cities and breathtaking nature, Morocco’s hidden gems and lesser-known treasures deserve a spot on your Moroccan itinerary too. These off the beaten path Moroccan destinations provide a deeper understanding of the country’s diversity and are far less visited than the popular cities of Morocco.

Ait Benhaddou

The Iconic Mud-Brick Kasbah

Ait Benhaddou is a mud-brick kasbah that has been featured in numerous films and TV series. We’re talking popular movies like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and The Mummy.

Here you can step right into the “Hollywood set”, Ait Benhaddou. It’s a real city where you can explore the winding streets and learn about its history. Consider taking a guided tour to gain insights into the kasbah’s significance in Moroccan culture and cinema.

Check out this affordable day trip from Marrakech to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou .

Morocco’s Ancient Roman Ruins

Volubilis is a UNESCO-listed site and showcases well-preserved Roman ruins. A stop in Volubilis allows you to stroll amongst the ancient columns, mosaics, and structures, and imagine life in a Roman provincial town.

A guided tour can provide historical context and bring the site to life. One of the most popular options to visit Volubilis is taking a day trip from Fes to Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes .

Morocco’s Sunny Coastal Retreat

In Agadir, you can relax on beautiful beaches, soak up the sun, and enjoy water sports like surfing. This coastal city’s modern vibe offers a pleasant contrast to Morocco’s historic cities. Take a break from the beach to visit the hilltop Kasbah for panoramic views and explore the bustling souks.

The Little Marrakech of Morocco

Taroudant is often referred to as “Little Marrakech” due to its similar architecture and the many souks in the city. However, you’ll find it has a far more relaxed atmosphere. Wander through the historic medina. Visit the Souk Al Haddad for handicrafts. Explore the city’s walls and gardens.

Andalusian Elegance in Morocco

Tétouan is known for its Andalusian-influenced architecture and culture. Explore its medina’s narrow streets and admire the white-washed buildings decorated with colorful tiles. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about the region’s history. Try the local cuisine in the city’s restaurants.

Explore More of Morocco

The best places in Morocco offer endless adventures with every turn bringing something new and exciting. From cities to natural wonders, it’s a country that will wow you and make you want to come back again and again.

Whether you’re navigating the maze of medinas, conquering the Atlas Mountains, or stepping back in time with its historical treasures, Morocco’s blend of tradition and modernity will create lasting memories. Continue planning your trip to Morocco with these helpful resources.

• 16 Things to Know Before Visiting Morocco
• The Best Time to Visit Morocco: A Season by Season Breakdown
• Need to Know Safety Tips for Solo Female Travel in Morocco
• What to Wear in Morocco as a Female Traveler

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10 Best Cities to Visit in Morocco

Table of Content

Step into the mesmerizing realm of Morocco, a land where ancient traditions meet the modern world, and where cities hold the secrets of centuries past.

As you embark on your Moroccan adventure, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and hospitality that defines this North African jewel.

Each city described in this article offers a unique slice of Moroccan life. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the coastal charm of Essaouira, these cities are the threads that weave together the rich fabric of Morocco’s identity.

But I am not just here to provide you with a list of places to see. Instead, picture yourself wandering through the labyrinthine medinas, where the air is perfumed with the scent of exotic spices and the call to prayer resonates from ancient minarets.

The Moroccan spirit of “ahlan wa sahlan” awaits – a warm embrace that welcomes you to a world of wonders.

Best Cities to Visit in Morocco

Marrakech, often dubbed the “Red City” due to its terracotta-colored buildings, is a bustling metropolis that effortlessly blends history and modernity. At the heart of Marrakech lies its historic Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This vibrant labyrinth of narrow alleys, known as “souks,” is a treasure trove of Moroccan culture.

Here, you’ll encounter a whirlwind of sights and sounds, from snake charmers and street performers in the Djemaa el-Fna square to the intricate architecture of the Bahia Palace.

For a taste of tranquility amid the city’s hustle and bustle, the Majorelle Garden provides respite with its cobalt-blue structures and exotic plants.

Don’t forget to indulge in Moroccan cuisine at a local eatery, savoring dishes like lamb tagine and couscous.

And, of course, no visit is complete without a visit to a traditional hammam to experience the art of relaxation Moroccan style.

Fes, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart, is a living testament to the country’s historical grandeur. Stepping into the ancient Medina of Fes is like stepping back in time. Its labyrinthine streets are home to the world’s oldest university, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD.

Wander through the Medina’s narrow alleyways, marvel at the intricate tilework, and explore the bustling tanneries where leather goods are still crafted using age-old methods.

The iconic Blue Gate (Bab Bou Jeloud) serves as a stunning entry point to this enchanting city. Don’t miss a visit to the Bou Inania Madrasa, a beautifully adorned theological college, or the Dar Batha Museum to admire traditional Moroccan artistry.

And, of course, savor the flavors of Fes by trying local specialties like pastilla (a savory pastry) and B’stilla (a sweet and savory pie).

Casablanca, Morocco’s modern face, is a vibrant coastal city where tradition meets contemporary living. While it may lack the historic charm of some other Moroccan cities, it compensates with a dynamic atmosphere and an array of cultural attractions.

The iconic Hassan II Mosque is a must-visit; it’s one of the largest mosques in the world, with stunning architectural details and a seaside location.

Stroll along the Corniche, a picturesque waterfront promenade, and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants. For a glimpse of local life, explore the bustling markets like the Central Market (Marché Central) or visit the Royal Palace of Casablanca.

As the sun sets, the city’s nightlife comes alive with trendy bars and clubs, making Casablanca a great place to experience Moroccan urban culture.

Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen, also known as the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco, is a city unlike any other. Tucked away in the Rif Mountains, this small town is famous for its stunning blue-painted buildings that give it an ethereal and serene atmosphere.

Chefchaouen’s laid-back ambiance and striking scenery make it a dream destination for photographers and those seeking tranquility.

Wander through the winding, cobblestone streets, where every corner unveils a new shade of blue. The Kasbah Museum offers a deeper insight into the town’s history and culture.

For hikers, the surrounding mountains offer scenic trails and opportunities for exploration. And when it’s time to dine, don’t miss out on savoring Moroccan cuisine in the charming cafes and restaurants.

Essaouira, situated along Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is a coastal gem known for its bohemian vibe, historic medina, and coastal beauty. The medina’s white-washed buildings contrast beautifully with the blue of the sea, creating a captivating backdrop for your visit.

A stroll along the Skala de la Ville offers picturesque ocean views and a glimpse into Essaouira’s maritime history. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with bustling souks, artisans crafting intricate woodwork, and fresh seafood grilling by the harbor.

Wind enthusiasts will find Essaouira’s consistent coastal breezes perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It’s a city that effortlessly combines relaxation and exploration.

Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital, offers a unique blend of modernity and historical treasures. The city’s coastal location on the Atlantic Ocean provides a refreshing breeze and stunning sea views. Start your exploration at the historic Kasbah of the Udayas, a well-preserved fortress with picturesque blue and white streets.

Rabat is home to numerous museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Royal Palace, which showcases Moroccan architecture and design. Stroll along the tree-lined avenues of the French-built Ville Nouvelle, where you’ll find upscale cafes and boutiques.

And for those interested in Moroccan politics and culture, a visit to the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V provides insights into the country’s history.

Agadir, nestled along Morocco’s southern Atlantic coastline, beckons travelers with its year-round sunshine and golden beaches. It’s a modern and resort-oriented city known for its relaxed ambiance and seaside activities.

The beachfront promenade is perfect for leisurely walks, and the sandy shores are ideal for sunbathing and water sports.

While in Agadir, explore the city’s vibrant markets, where you can find local handicrafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.

Don’t forget to visit the Kasbah, which offers panoramic views of the city and coastline. Agadir also boasts a thriving culinary scene, with fresh seafood and Moroccan specialties served at its many restaurants.

Meknes, often referred to as the “Versailles of Morocco,” is a city that exudes grandeur and history. Located in the heart of the country, it’s one of Morocco’s four imperial cities and offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its counterparts.

The vast Royal Palace, with its impressive gates and stables, is a testament to the city’s royal heritage. Explore the bustling medina, where you can find traditional souks and artisans at work.

For history buffs, the granaries of Heri es-Souani and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis are a short drive away, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s diverse heritage.

Tangier, perched at the northern tip of Morocco overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, has long been a crossroads of cultures and a city of intrigue. It’s a city where Europe and Africa seem to meet, and this unique blend of influences is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and atmosphere.

Take a leisurely walk along the historic medina’s narrow streets and savor the aroma of Moroccan spices and mint tea wafting from local cafes. Visit the American Legation Museum, a symbol of Tangier’s diplomatic history.

Don’t miss the stunning Caves of Hercules and the panoramic views from Cap Spartel, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.

Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” is a desert city located in south-central Morocco. This unique city is famous for its dramatic landscapes, including the stunning Atlas Film Studios, where many Hollywood blockbusters were filmed.

While in Ouarzazate, explore the historic Taourirt Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Moroccan architecture.

Venture into the surrounding desert for an authentic Sahara experience, where you can ride camels, camp under the stars, and visit ancient ksar (fortified villages).

Ouarzazate is a place where the Sahara’s vastness and Morocco’s cultural heritage come together in an unforgettable fusion.

Each of these cities in Morocco offers its own distinct character and allure, making Morocco a country that invites exploration and discovery at every turn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best cities in morocco to visit.

The best cities in Morocco to visit include Marrakech, Fes, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, and Essaouira.

Where is the most beautiful city in Morocco?

Beauty is subjective, but many travelers find Chefchaouen, with its stunning blue-painted streets and mountainous backdrop, to be one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco.

What is the most tourist friendly city in Morocco?

Marrakech is often considered the most tourist-friendly city in Morocco due to its well-developed tourism infrastructure, diverse attractions, and vibrant atmosphere.

What is the best part of Morocco to go to?

The best part of Morocco to go to depends on your interests. If you’re into history and culture, Fes and Marrakech are excellent choices. For beach lovers, the coastal cities like Essaouira and Agadir are great. And if you prefer desert landscapes, consider visiting the Sahara region.

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Have You Been To The 12 Best Cities In Morocco?

Explore the magical cities of Morocco.

The name Morocco conjures up exotic images of a far-away land with bustling bazaars, stunning Islamic architecture, and shifting sand dunes. This mystical African country is home to a vibrant, colourful culture that attracts travellers from across the world. The cities in Morocco perfectly blend the styles of Europe and the Sub-Sahara in the energy they exude.

There’s so much you can see and experience in Morocco, including the delicious food that is famous the world over. To truly absorb the essence of Morocco and its enchanting atmosphere, here is a list of all the places you must visit in the country.

Gorgeous Cities In Morocco You Must Visit

1. rabat: morocco’s political and administrative capital .

Morocco’s capital is situated on the coast and has some of the most tranquil beaches. An extra perk is that the city has great weather all year round, making it a favourite among tourists. It is divided into two parts; the Old Town and the New Town. The New Town embodies modernity and is packed with wide boulevards and outdoor cafes while the Old Town or Medina has a wistful charm to it with its traditional souks (bazaars) and an overall historical vibe.

Rabat has some of the best art galleries and museums in the country like the National Archaeological Museum and the Modern Art Museum. Winding alleyways with tiny blue and white homes and sparkling beaches with soothing waters are awaiting you in this city.

How to reach: Rabat is well served by train and you can get frequent connections to most places. There are two stations in Gare Rabat Ville-Medina/Downtown and Agdal. The Rabat International Airport is in the nearby town of Salé. The airport is served by a dedicated Stareo Bus that offers a direct connection to the city centre, just outside of Rabat Ville Train Station / Mohammed V Tramway Station.

Most Popular Attraction: Kasbah of the Udayas.

2. Marrakech: Chief City Of Central Morocco

The beloved Old Town of Morocco, Marrakech is loud and colourful in every possible way. As you make your way through its streets, the smell of spices and food will fill your senses. The bazaars in Marrakech are endless; you can shop till you drop. Situated right below the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech beckons you to embrace its chaos.

At the heart of the city is the busiest square in Africa- Jemaa el-Fnaa, which is filled with both locals and tourists. Magicians, storytellers, and hawkers crowd the streets vying for your attention!

How to reach: All the major cities like Casablanca, Tangier, and Nador are very well connected to Marrakech through railways. Marrakech-Menara Airport, Marrakech’s international airport has direct scheduled flights from London, Dublin, Oslo, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Paris, Madrid, and many charter flights arriving from all over Europe. If you are flying from the US, Canada, Asia, or elsewhere, you’ll have to change planes in Casablanca.

Most Popular Attraction: Koutoubia Mosque

Also Read:  Here Are The Top 11 Things To Do In Marrakesh

3. Fes: Home To The Oldest And Largest Medina In North Africa

This 1,200-year-old Maghreb city is a historic relic you have to visit. The city used to once be the capital of Morocco and continues to remain a cultural hub. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 and the medina section of the city is completely car-free, imagine that!

The historic heart of the city, Fès el-Bali is a labyrinth you would love to get lost in. Lanes, staircases, and squares all merge into each other amidst cottages and multi-coloured tanneries. The elegant boulevards of Ville Nouvelle are reminiscent of the French rule in the country. The streets are distinctly Parisian with pretty fountains and grand hotels. This medieval city blends modern and traditional exquisitely and is a treat to explore on foot.

How to reach: The train station Fès-Ville is found at the northern end if the Ville-Nouvelle. There is regular train service along the Marrakech to Oujda and Tangier to Oujda train lines. There is also Fes Sais International Airport which is located about 15 km from the city. If you choose to take a car, Fez is about 3 hour’s drive by car from Casablanca. 

Most Popular Attraction: Fes el Jedid

Also Read:  6 Things You Cannot Miss When You Visit Fez

4. Casablanca: Largest City In Morocco

The port city of Casablanca is one of the more modern cities in Morocco. There are cool nightclubs you could visit and go shopping at the endless Morocco Mall which is the second-biggest shopping centre on the continent!

The Mauresque architecture which is a gorgeous fusion of the arabesque and the Parisian is all around you. Most buildings and squares are designed in this style. Also, Casa Tramway is a fun way to get around the city.

How to reach: One of the easiest ways to get to Casablanca is by train. All the major cities like Marrakech, Tangier, and Nador are very well connected to Casablanca through railways. Casablanca is also home to Morocco’s busiest international airport, Mohammed V International Airport (CMN).

Most Popular Attraction: Hassan II Mosque

Also Read:  The Top 11 Things To Do In Casablanca

5. Meknes: One Of The Four Imperial Cities Of Morocco

The Historic City of Meknes is far more laid back than the likes of Rabat and Marrakech. If you’re looking for a place to unwind, Meknes is it! Meknes is a walled city and has some breathtaking ruins including the ruins of Volubilis and the capital of Ancient Mauretania.

Meknes has a lot of old architecture and its medina dates back to the 9th century. The pilgrim town of Moulay Idriss is a popular tourist attraction, there’s also a small traditional souk here much like the other bigger cities. You can head to the Dar Jamai Museum to learn about Morocco’s rich architecture. This small city is a world in itself and is extremely interesting to explore.

How to reach: Meknes is connected by train to most major cities like Marrakech, Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, Fes, or Oujda. There are also buses available to the main bus station (Gare Routière) of Meknes.

Most Popular Attraction: Roman ruins of Volubilis

6. Chefchaouen: Blue Pearl Of Morocco

Also called the blue city owing to many of its houses, streets, and alleyways being bathed in the colour, Chefchaouen is a small town amidst the Rif Mountains. It’s a great place for solo travellers to explore; the people are extremely friendly and hospitable. Some of the best Moroccan handicrafts and souvenirs are in the city.

Tourist attractions include Ras El Maa, a beautiful waterfall, and the Outa el Hammam square which has exquisite architecture. You can leisurely take a hike or go swimming in the countryside if you’re looking for something to do.

How to reach: You’ll then need to get a bus to Chefchaouen, as there is no airport or train access to this town. Buses generally arrive in Chefchaouen’s New Town. Another option is, of course, a private taxi but they might be very expensive.

Most Popular Attraction: Kasbah

Also Read:  7 Things To Do In Chefchaouen, The Blue City of Morocco

7. Ouarzazate: Door Of The Desert

So many Hollywood films have used the stunning deserts of Ouarzazate as their filming locations. Directors have been flocking to this city since the ‘60s and if you’re looking to find places where your favourite films have been shot, stop by Ouarzazate! Its authentic Arabian beauty draws travellers to it.

You can take a tour of the Atlas Film Studios where movies like Cleopatra and Kingdom of Heaven were shot, you can also visit the settlement of Ait Ben Haddou, which was the backdrop for movies like  Lawrence of Arabia , and  The Living Daylights , as well as  Game of Thrones . The main square has great restaurants and places to shop if you’re looking to relax for a while.

How to reach: There are often two flights a day during the week from  Casablanca , occasional flights to Agadir and other cities. You can also take the buses from Inezgane and Marrakech.

Most Popular Attraction: Cinema Museum

8. Asilah: For Well-preserved 15th-century Ramparts

Situated on the North Atlantic coast, Asilah is a great spot to visit during summer. The city has some great beaches and the walls within are adorned with lovely murals. The buildings around are mostly painted white and the locals take great care of the city. Every August, Asilah hosts an Arts Festival which is a fun event, especially for youngsters.

How to reach: You can take the train as Asilah lies on the rail line linking Tangier to Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Meknes, and Fes. There are buses also available from Tangier, Meknes, and Marrakech. You can also reach Asilah directly from Tanger Airport.

Most Popular Attraction: Paradise Beach

9. Agadir: Miami Of Morocco

Agadir has managed to establish itself as one of the foremost places to visit in Morocco despite being destroyed in 1960 by an earthquake. In the years that followed, this port city successfully rebuilt itself and is now famous for its beach-front boulevards and tourist attractions like the Agadir Museum. If you’re up for a hike, you can visit the Souss-Massa National Park or simply stroll along Agadir Beach.

How to reach: You can take a flight to Agadir-Al Massira Airport which is 20 km southeast of the city and has direct flights coming from major cities in Europe as well as many charter flights arriving from all over Europe.

 Most Popular Attraction: Agadir Birds Valley

10. Tinghir: The Most Beautiful Oases In Southern Morocco

This Moroccan city is tucked between the High Atlas Mountains and the gorgeous Sahara Desert and is at the centre of the Todra Valley. Tinghir used to once be an old French town but has now transformed into a huge city with gorgeous flower gardens, rustic streets, and kasbahs.

It’s a great place to hike because of its exotic views. You can hike up to the 18th Century Glaoui Palace and take in the stunning landscape all around you. Other fun things to do in the city include taking a camel ride and going souvenir shopping at the crafts market.

How to reach: You can either take the bus from Marrakesh to Kalaat M’Gouna or you can take a taxi from Kalaat M’Gouna to Tinghir.

Most Popular Attraction: Todgha Gorge

11. Essaouira: Wind City Of Africa

Lying on the crossroads between two tribes: the Arab Chiadma to the north and the Haha Berbers in the south, Essaouira is a serene coastal city with a distinctly European vibe. The city was once under a French protectorate, which led to a fusion of cultures and architectural styles: it saw hippies, musicians, and travellers of the 1960s moving into the city. Essaouira is known for its pretty, sandy beaches, but the strong winds make sunbathing out of the question. Water sports fans can take advantage of these strong winds and can pick Essaouira’s beaches during the summer months to practice their windsurfing skills. The city boasts spice-scented lanes and palm-lined avenues of the fortified medina, that make for the perfect place to get lost.

How to reach: Most travellers take the bus to reach Essaouira since there is no train station. There is a direct daily bus travelling from Casablanca to Essaouira which takes about 6 hours. Buses from Marrakech take around 2.5 hours and several companies travel this route.

Most Popular Attraction: Traditional souk

12. Tetouan: The White Dove

Located in northern Morocco, the little city of Tetouan is an important port on the Mediterranean Sea and was once the capital of Spanish Morocco. The town sits strikingly at the foot of the Rif Mountains and has a Hispano-Moorish character due to its history. The streets are filled with square, white-washed, Spanish-style buildings and wide boulevards, while the ancient Medina looks like it has not changed in several centuries.

How to reach: Tétouan is very easy to reach by bus or grand taxi. Travellers can see the bus station en route from Ceuta or Tangier to Chefchaouen as well.

Most Popular Attraction: Medina- A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Also Read:  Essential Morocco Travel Tips To Know Before You Go

Which Of These Moroccan Cities Will Make It To Your Travel List?

Of course, there are lots of other cities and towns in Morocco you can visit like Kenitra, Settat, Beni Mellal, Taroudant, Ifrane, Larache, and more. Towns like Ifrane and Larache are not on tourist radars but make for offbeat destinations. From the Atlas Mountains to the desert, these places in Morocco have a range of sights to offer, as well as history. If we’ve missed any, be sure to share them in the comments below.

FAQs About Morocco’s Cities

Marrakech is considered the most beautiful city in Morocco.

Three major cities in Morocco are Rabat, Marrakech, and Fez. The largest cities in Morocco are Casablanca, Fez, Tangier, and Marrakech.

The best cities to visit in Morocco are Rabat, Meknes, Ouarzazate, Fez, and Marrakech.

There are 67 cities in Morocco.

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Discover Morocco's Best Cities

Immerse yourself in the allure of Morocco's cities. From the historic medinas to the modern vibes, each city tells a unique tale.

13 Of The Best Cities To Discover In Morocco

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Explore Morocco’s Best Cities

Dreaming of visiting Morocco? Prepare yourself for a blend of old-world charm and modern allure. In this mystical land where the Sahara meets the sea, it’s not just about the deserts and beaches. It’s also about incredible cities overflowing with history, culture, and spirit. 

The major cities in Morocco each have their own special flavor, but they all share one thing in common. A sense of the exotic, something magical that will make your vacation unforgettable. 

Join us as we delve into the mesmerizing labyrinthine streets, the ornate architecture, and the warm hospitality that defines the best cities in Morocco, and prepare to be swept away!

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Whether you’re an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a dedicated foodie, Morocco has a city tailored just for you.

See if you can find yours:

1. Marrakech

One of Morocco’s four imperial cities (the others being Fes, Meknes and Rabat) Marrakech is full of life, with busy markets called souks, fragrant gardens, and colorful palaces. Be sure to indulge in some street food after dusk at Jemaa El-Fnaa Square – a marketplace that is quintessentially Moroccan.

Marrakech is also home to the stunning Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. It’s covered with intricate mosaics, beautiful gardens, and detailed woodwork. 

If you’re looking for a little nature in the hustle and bustle visit Le Jardin Secret in the Medina which is a faithful recreation of a symmetrical Islamic garden, or head slightly out of town to Le Jardin Majorelle, the passion project of Yves St Laurent, who restored the garden in the 1980s.

And while in Marrakech, you should definitely experience a traditional Moroccan hammam. Also known as a Turkish bath, a hammam is a completely unique spa experience. You’ll be steamed, scrubbed, and massaged until you’re utterly relaxed. 

It’s a wonderful way to unwind after a day of exploring the souks and streets of one of the best cities to visit in Morocco. We highly recommend Les Bains de Marrakech, a luxurious hammam that offers an authentic Moroccan spa experience.

There are also a few festivals that are worthwhile additions to your trip. A favorite is the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival, held each summer. It draws artists, musicians, and performers from across Morocco and the world. It’s a fantastic chance to experience traditional Berber music, folk dances, and even horse-riding displays.

RELATED POST: What Do I Need to Know Before Going to Morocco?

Is this your first time visiting Morocco? Get all the information you need in our Morocco Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Walking through Fez is like stepping back in time. The intricate maze of streets in the medina, or old town, the smell of leather from the tanneries, and the ancient University of Al Quaraouiyine combine to make this city a living museum. 

The Medina of Fez is one of the world’s largest walled cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can lose yourself in its winding alleyways, and discover hidden gems like the Nejjarine Fountain. Carved from intricate mosaic tiles and ornate wooden screens, locals still come to draw water at this masterpiece of Moroccan carpentry. 

When in Fez, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Chouara Tannery, the largest and oldest leather tannery in the city. It’s a fascinating spectacle of workers standing in honeycomb-shaped stone vessels filled with different colors. They use methods passed down through centuries to turn rawhide into soft, colorful leather. 

It’s an exclusive process that involves natural materials like pigeon poop and poppy flowers for the tanning and dyeing processes. The smell is a little pungent – we were given mint to put under our noses. But it’s definitely worth it to witness this traditional craft in action. 

And if you decide to buy some Moroccan leather goods to take home, remember to haggle. It’s a part of the fun! As a good rule of thumb, offer a third and then meet somewhere in the middle!

Fez is also home to some spectacular festivals. The 10 day Festival of World Sacred Music is an annual event. Each June, spiritual music from around the globe is showcased, from Sufi Muslim chants to soul-stirring Christian gospel. It’ll feel like you’ve found the heart of Morocco.

RELATED POST: Atlantic to Sahara – A Morocco Road Trip

3. Casablanca

It’s not all Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Casablanca is modern Morocco, with its sprawling boulevards and the grand Hassan II Mosque. This mosque is a star attraction in Casa, built on reclaimed land in 1993.

It’s the largest mosque in Morocco, with the world’s tallest minaret at 210 meters (690 feet) tall. It’s home to a stunning prayer hall and is surrounded by a lush, tranquil garden.

You won’t feel like you’ve been to Casablanca, though, unless you take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche and admire the waves crashing against the rocks. And don’t forget to indulge in some fresh seafood from one of the many restaurants while you’re there.

Casablanca has also become a hot spot for street artists, with colorful murals popping up in the city’s most unexpected corners. Explore a few back streets of Casablanca to find what’s hiding in them. From towering graffiti walls and intricate stenciled art to hypnotic abstract paintings, you’ll find that the city is filled with art.

Quartier Habous, aka the New Medina, is another special part of Casablanca. This pretty neighborhood blends traditional Moroccan and French architecture. You can browse boutiques selling local handicrafts, textiles, and Moroccan sweets. And be sure to stop by Patisserie Bennis Habous for their decadent Gazelles’ Horns pastries – trust me. 

If you’re lucky enough to be in town toward the end of June, you’ll be able to catch Casablanca’s crown jewel festival: ‘Jazzablanca’. Artists from around the world come to dazzle audiences with their musical prowess and genre-blending performances. 

Jazzablanca celebrates all forms of music, from soul and funk to rock and electro. With open-air concerts, club gigs, and a ‘Jazz for Kids’ program, there’s something for everyone.

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4. Chefchaouen

Also known as the ‘Blue Pearl of Morocco’, Chefchaouen (pronounced ‘shef-SHAU-wun’) is an irresistible mountain town washed in all shades of blue. Founded in 1471 as a fortress to fight off Portuguese invasions, the city’s name translates to ‘look at the horns’. This references the two mountains it sits between. 

The city’s cobblestone streets pass doors, stairways, alleyways, and archways in every shade of blue. This tradition of painting everything in blues dates back to the 15th century when Jewish refugees settled here. They brought with them their blue paint tradition to mirror the sky and remind them of God. 

The blue city has a distinctive charm and relaxed atmosphere and a blend of Moroccan and Andalusian cultures that you won’t find anywhere else. Indulge in the local cuisine, especially goat’s cheese, which is considered a regional specialty. The honey from the surrounding mountains is also a must-try.

A top attraction here is the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its winding streets are lined with shops filled with local handicrafts, wool garments, and woven blankets. The Kasbah Museum in the heart of the medina lets you learn a bit about the city’s rich history.

If you’d like to spend some time outdoors around Chefchaouen, a day trip to the Akchour Waterfalls and God’s Bridge is perfect. Take a scenic hike through the green valley, and relish the sight of cascading waterfalls and the beauty of God’s Bridge, a remarkable rock formation resembling a bridge, before settling down for a picnic amidst the serene ambiance.

And of course, if you’re a festival lover, you’re in luck. Chefchaouen is home to the Alegrìa Festival, a music fest featuring regional music mixed with Latin American and Spanish music. These mix to create an unbelievable sound you’ll be glad you were there for. Dates are variable, though, so you’ll have to do some Googling. 

5. Essaouira

You’ll remember Essaouira (pronounced es-WE-rah) for the Atlantic coast sea breeze and its bone-deep peaceful feel. Walk through the Portuguese-built ramparts, as medina walls are called, and explore the medina itself, filled with craft workspaces and art galleries. 

Then escape to Essaouira’s many beautiful beaches and take in endless views of the Atlantic. Known for its beautiful beaches and strong winds, this is the perfect stop for surfers .

Essaouira is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. Along with surfing, the consistent winds and manageable waves result in fantastic windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Kayaking is another great way to explore the coastline at your own pace and get to know the natural side of Essaouira.

And if you’re feeling more adventurous, it’s the spot for a quad biking tour. The journey will take you through landscapes like secluded beaches, Berber villages, and the Argan forests – all particular to Morocco. This is an exhilarating way to appreciate another side of Essaouira while adding a bit of adrenaline to your Moroccan holiday.

For an unrivaled cultural experience, Essaouira features the Gnaoua World Music Festival. This annual event takes place every June and celebrates the traditional music and culture of Morocco’s ancient African tribe – the Gnawas. 

The three-day celebration features a mix of local and international artists. Performances are held in the Essaouira’s Jewish Quarter, where you can expect high-energy drumming, powerful vocal performances, and hypnotic traditional dances. You’ll hear pop, jazz, and rock, as well as international contemporary music.

Side Note : The TV show Game of Thrones features Essaouira as the city of Astapor.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Morocco for your trip? Check out our guide to the best SIM cards in Morocco and get the best deal for your trip.

On the northern cusp of the mighty Atlas Mountains, Meknes is a city that exudes old-world charm. It’s a lesser-known Moroccan city, but entirely worth visiting. It’s one of the best cities in Morocco, in part for just that reason.

Another of the Imperial Morocco cities, Meknes is known for its historic sites, like the Bab Al Mansour, one of the most beautiful ancient gates in Morocco. The 16 meter (52.5 foot) tall mosaic gate is a UNESCO Heritage Site and was originally the main ceremonial entrance to the royal citadel of Sultan Moulay Isma’il, built in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.

The Dar Jamai Museum holds a collection of Moroccan art and cultural artifacts in an incredible 19th century palace, and shouldn’t be missed. And the Bou Inania Madrasa, a school and a mosque, is a prime example of Moroccan architecture. It’s full of tilework and wood carvings that reflect the noble aesthetic of Islamic art and culture.

One of the best archaeological sites around Meknes is the ruins of Volubilis. Another UNESCO site, Volubilis is rich with remnants of Roman civilization. This is an archaeological gem and offers an intriguing glimpse into Meknes’ history. 

As well, there’s no shortage of nightlife entertainment, with bars and clubs plentiful in Meknes. Whether you’re looking for traditional Moroccan music or contemporary dance tunes, you’re sure to find something to entertain you. 

One activity you should definitely squeeze in is a calèche – a traditional horse and carriage ride. It’s a novel and easy-paced way to explore the city, and not one that’s available all over Morocco. Take advantage of your opportunity in Meknes. 

Meknes is also known for its festivals – from the Islamic New Year celebrated in March, to the huge Moulay Idriss Festival nearby in August. Meknes will draw you back for these festivals alone.

In Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, you’ll find a perfect blend of the traditional and the modern. The Mausoleum of Mohammed V is a marvel of modern Moroccan architecture, and the nearby Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret, is historical Morocco at its finest.

Rabat is also the ideal city to explore the many souks, or markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts and delicious street food.

For culture enthusiasts, there is plenty to see in Rabat. The National Museum of Archaeology offers a look into Morocco’s exceptional history. The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, on the other hand, showcases a wide range of art from well-known local and international artists. 

If you’ll be spending Christmas in Morocco , you might be hoping to find a little holiday cheer. In this primarily Muslim country, Rabat is your best chance of finding it. With its large international community, you’re sure to find pockets of merriment during the Christmas season.

An experience unique to Rabat is a stroll on the Kasbah of the Udayas. A kasbah is a fortress, and the views from this 12th century fortress are stunning. You’ll find great photo ops of the Bouregreg River and the Atlantic Ocean. 

You can wander through the maze of alleyways, visit the Andalusian Gardens, and discover the history at the Kasbah Museum. History, culture, and breathtaking vistas in one walk.

The capital has some festivals worth attending, too. The Mawazine Festival in Rabat is the largest international music festival in the world and exhibits a wide range of genres. 

Usually held annually in May, it sometimes happens in June, or even February. The week-long extravaganza celebrates cultural diversity and international harmony, creating a rhythmic tide of global unity. 

8. Merzouga

On the edge of the Sahara Desert, Merzouga is your dream desert destination. The town provides a rare cultural experience, with opportunities to mingle with the local Berber and Nomadic tribes. You’ll get a real sense of their hospitable spirit and learn about their fascinating customs and traditions.

A terrific way to get a look inside the culture of Merzouga is to take a traditional Berber cooking class. Locals welcome you into their homes and guide you in preparing classic Moroccan dishes using traditional techniques and local ingredients. Where better for a cultural experience than in the kitchen?

This immersive culinary adventure not only offers a taste of Morocco’s rich kitchen heritage but it’s also a glimpse into Berber culture and everyday life.

The Erg Chebbi dunes will give you a one-of-a-kind desert experience from the back of a camel. You can spend a night under the stars in a desert camp and bask in the sunrise over the Sahara.  It makes for an experience you’ll absolutely never forget. 

And every year Merzouga hosts the insane Transahara Festival, a 5 day psytrance cultural spectacle that celebrates the nomadic heritage of the region. Coinciding with the spring equinox, this festival has Berber, Saharawi, and Tuareg tribes coming together for musical performances like you’ve never experienced.

RELATED POST: Morocco Sahara Desert: Map, Tips & Ideas for Your Visit

Agadir is a city known for its clean beaches and modern infrastructure. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the seafront promenade, explore the classic souks, or visit the ruins of the old Kasbah for a panoramic view of the city and its bay. 

Agadir is also an excellent place in Morocco for water sports enthusiasts. Try your hand at surfing, sailing, or kitesurfing and feel the energy of the sea splashing around you. Or if you’re looking to relax, enjoy a stroll along the beach and take in Agadir’s exquisite coastline views.

Agadir’s nightlife offers something for everyone, too. From traditional music in the souks to nightclubs and bars at night, there’s plenty of festivity around. And don’t forget about Agadir’s many restaurants, serving dishes from seafood specialties to international cuisine. 

As well, this city is a dream for nature lovers. The nearby Souss-Massa National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. It’s home to a stunning variety of bird species, including the rare Northern Bald Ibis. 

Migrating tortoises can often be spotted here, too. Its landscapes range from sand dunes and wetlands to coastal cliffs and Argan forests. This is a favorite spot for many travelers, and for good reason. 

In Agadir, the annual Timitar Festival is a highlight that music and culture fans shouldn’t miss. This festival, usually held in the summer, brings together international artists and local Berber musicians, focusing on Amazigh culture along with world music. 

Once a year you can experience the Timitar Festival, an extraordinary celebration of our differences and our similarities. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, offering a second-to-none opportunity to be immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco.

10. Ouarzazate

On the edge of the Anti Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate (pronounced WAS-a-zart) is a quiet city, and home to many ancient fortresses. These are great places to take in some stunning views of the city and surrounding desert landscapes. 

For example, Kasbah Taourirt , once the seat of the powerful Glaoui tribe, is a beautifully preserved fortress. This architectural wonder is full of intricate Berber designs, with a complex labyrinth of rooms, ornate reception halls, and traditional stables. Partially in ruins but partially restored, a visit to this Kasbah is a look into ancient Ouarzazate.

Another is Ait Ben Haddou , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the most famous Kasbah in Morocco. It showcases the architecture particular to southern Morocco. 

With its sand-colored walls and incredible desert backdrop, this fortified village features six Kasbahs and nearly fifty palaces. A climb to the top reveals a mesmerizing view, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the Kasbah glows in the warm light.

But many come to Ouarzazate because it is known as the ‘Hollywood of Africa’. For film buffs, this makes Ouarzazate one of the best cities in Morocco, as they can explore the Atlas Film Studios where movies like Gladiator and The Mummy were shot. 

If you’re not a movie buff, the nearby Valley of Roses might interest you. The pink-hued banks along the Assif M’goun River are special to the area, with their fields of fragrant Damask roses. 

The roses provide a livelihood for the Ouarzazate community. If you can be there in April or May, you’ll get to experience the heady fragrance and stunning sight of these blossoms for yourself.

Of course, a place like the Valley of Roses must have its own festival. The annual Rose Festival is a celebration of the blooming of roses in the famous valley that transforms the landscape into a sea of pink. 

The event is typically held in May and features a parade, music performances, and locals selling rose-infused products. You’ll never smell a rose again without thinking of Ouarzazate.

12. Tétouan

Tétouan’s Andalusian influence and Spanish colonial architecture set it apart from other Moroccan cities. It’s also where you’ll find the Tetouan Museum of Modern Art, which showcases Morocco’s contemporary art scene and international artists. 

Tétouan’s medina, known for its white and blue houses, is a stand-out feature as well. And if you’re looking for traditional handicrafts, the souks here are a great place to find Moroccan souvenirs.

What Tétouan has in common with many of Morocco’s other phenomenal cities is its ancient medinas. Tétouan’s is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its network of winding alleyways, souks, and Andalusian architecture. 

And of course, a Tétouan bonus is the nearby Tinmel Mosque, which dates back to the 8th century and is a rare piece of North African architecture. 

A great way to experience the area around Tétouan is by hiking in the nearby Rif Mountains. The trails here offer panoramic views, and hidden spots for you to discover, and they cater to all experience levels. We’d recommend hiring a local guide to get the most out of the adventure. It will not disappoint.

Plus, if you’re in the neighborhood in the springtime, the Tétouan Mediterranean Film Festival is a phenomenal experience. It’s celebrated every March and attracts movie lovers from around across the planet. 

It showcases a wide range of films from the Mediterranean region and honors the area’s rich cinematic history. It even offers viewers the opportunity to engage in discussions with filmmakers and actors.

13. Tangier

The gritty port city of Tangier may be close to Europe, but with its strong Moroccan spirit, it’s a world away from the European continent and may well provide a culture shock if it’s your first experience of Morocco!

The Grand Socco, with its markets and street musicians, is a feast for the senses and the Kasbah Museum is a treasure trove of Moroccan artifacts and history. As well, Tangier’s beaches and the nearby Caves of Hercules, are great stops when exploring the city.

There are many choices when it comes time to eat. For those with an adventurous palette, a visit to the Saveur de Poisson is essential. This famous eatery is an experience all its own. You can indulge in a set menu of local seafood delicacies, accompanied by traditional Moroccan music. Or follow Anthony Bourdain’s example and try the shark kebabs.

Tangier even has iconic cafes, such as Café Hafa and Café de Paris. These are great places to have a mint tea or just relax and people watch while enjoying spectacular views of the city.

And of course, in true Moroccan style, Tangier plays host to the annual Tanjazz Festival. Held in the heart of the city, the Tanjazz Festival will thrill any music lover. 

This jazz extravaganza, usually held in September, is an eclectic mix of local and international jazz artists. You’re guaranteed an immersive experience with this blend of music, culture, and ambiance. Pack your dancing shoes and prepare to be swept off your feet!

RELATED POST: Tarifa to Tangier: Tips & Tricks for a Day Trip to Morocco

Wrapping It Up: Best Moroccan Cities

No matter which destination you choose to visit, Morocco will be a memorable experience. Morocco is a treasure trove of fascinating cities, each with its own distinctive culture, history, and charm. 

From the energy of Agadir, the allure of Ouarzazate, the cultural richness of Tétouan, to the tranquility of Asilah, there really is a Moroccan city for every kind of traveler. 

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or a road tripper , Morocco has a city that will cater to your interests, guaranteeing an unforgettable holiday. 

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10 of the Best Cities to Visit in Morocco

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Originating from Portugal, Alberto Ferreiro is an avid globetrotter, fueled…

Morocco, a land of diverse landscapes and rich culture, beckons travelers with its enchanting cities. From the vibrant souks of Marrakech to the serene blue streets of Chefchaouen, each city in this North African gem offers a unique and captivating experience. This comprehensive travel guide takes you through the 10 best cities to visit in Morocco, providing a more detailed glimpse into the highlights and must-do activities in each destination.

In This Travel Guide

1. marrakech – the red city, 2. fes – the imperial city, 3. casablanca – the modern metropolis, 4. chefchaouen – the blue city, 5. essaouira – the coastal gem of morocco, 6. rabat – the capital of morocco, 7. tangier – the gateway to morocco, 8. agadir – the beach destination, 9. ouarzazate – the hollywood of the sahara, 10. meknes – the hidden gem of morocco, best cities to visit in morocco.

Highlights: Marrakech , the “Red City,” immediately captivates with its distinctive red walls, a symbol of its history. The city’s heart is its historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site , which is a maze of narrow streets, palaces, and gardens. The city is also known for Jemaa el-Fnaa square , an ever-bustling hub of Moroccan street life, and the stunning Bahia Palace , an exquisite example of Islamic and Moroccan architecture. The Majorelle Garden , with its cobalt blue buildings and exotic plants, offers a tranquil escape.

Must-Do: When in Marrakech, lose yourself in the labyrinthine souks, where you can shop for everything from spices to leather goods. Savor the flavors of Morocco at the food stalls in Jemaa el-Fnaa, where you can taste tagines, couscous, and traditional sweets. For a more serene experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city, which allows you to appreciate the city’s architectural beauty.

Highlights: Fes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities , is renowned for having one of the world’s best-preserved medieval medinas. This historic medina, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living testament to Moroccan history and culture. Key attractions include the Bou Inania Madrasa , a theological college, and the Al-Attarine Madrasa , known for its intricate tilework and architecture.

Must-Do: To fully appreciate the historical significance of Fes, consider taking a guided tour of the medina. It provides insight into the city’s vibrant history, craftsmanship, and architectural gems. Don’t forget to explore the lively souks and admire the intricate craftsmanship of traditional Moroccan ceramics, textiles, and leather goods.

Highlights: Casablanca is a contrast of modernity and tradition. The Hassan II Mosque , one of the largest mosques in the world, is a marvel of contemporary Moroccan architecture and a must-visit. The Corniche beach, lined with restaurants and cafes, offers a scenic escape, and the Royal Palace provides a glimpse of Morocco’s royal heritage.

Must-Do: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Casablanca, with its abundance of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Dive into the bustling Medina of Casablanca, where you can find a wide variety of goods. The Royal Palace’s impressive gates make for a great photo opportunity.

Highlights: Nestled in the Rif Mountains , Chefchaouen is often referred to as the “Blue City” due to its enchanting blue-painted buildings. This tranquil city provides a relaxing escape from the bustle of Morocco’s larger cities.

Must-Do: Stroll through the serene streets, painted in various shades of blue, and discover hidden gems around every corner. The surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities, and the historic kasbah and Andalusian Gardens provide cultural insights and stunning views.

Highlights: Essaouira, a coastal gem on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is characterized by its well-preserved medina, historic fortifications, and beautiful beaches. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a favorite among visitors for its authenticity and charm.

Must-Do: Explore the medina’s narrow streets, where you’ll find artisan workshops, art galleries, and boutique shops. Watch the sunset from the Skala de la Ville, a historic seafront fortress, and savor fresh seafood at the port area’s lively fish market and restaurants.

Highlights: Rabat , Morocco’s capital, is a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. The Kasbah of the Udayas , a historic fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and the iconic Hassan Tower are among the city’s key attractions. The Royal Palace and Chellah ruins offer additional historical and cultural experiences.

Must-Do: Pay your respects at the Royal Mausoleum of Mohammed V , a magnificent example of Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship. The well-preserved Chellah ruins, with their storks and beautiful gardens, are a serene and historical escape from the city’s bustling streets.

Highlights: Tangier, situated at the northern tip of Morocco, serves as the gateway to the country. The city’s unique blend of Moroccan and European influences is a reflection of its historical role as an international city. Tangier offers beautiful beaches and a burgeoning artistic scene.

Must-Do: Dive into the city’s rich history and art scene by visiting the Kasbah Museum and experiencing the lively Grand Socco square. Don’t miss the stunning views from the Cape Spartel lighthouse , where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea.

Highlights: Agadir , located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches, modern resorts, and a pleasant climate. It’s a popular destination for travelers seeking a beach escape and leisure.

Must-Do: Spend your days lounging on the beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. The Souk El Had market offers an authentic Moroccan shopping experience, and a visit to the Valley of the Birds provides a family-friendly adventure with a wide variety of exotic birds.

Highlights: Ouarzazate is known as the “ Hollywood of the Sahara ” due to its role as a backdrop for numerous films. The city offers unique attractions, including the Aït Benhaddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site , and the Atlas Studios , where many famous movies and TV series have been filmed.

Must-Do: Take a guided tour of the Aït Benhaddou kasbah, a historic and picturesque desert fortress. Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley and visit nearby Atlas Mountains villages to experience the local Berber culture and hospitality.

Highlights: Meknes, often overshadowed by its imperial city counterparts, is a less-visited city with a rich history. The Royal Stables, which once housed thousands of horses, and the well-preserved medina with its grand architecture are key attractions.

Must-Do: Discover the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail , a testament to the city’s grandeur during his reign. Explore the stunning gates of Bab Mansour, one of the most impressive monumental gates in Morocco. For history buffs and those seeking a quieter atmosphere, Meknes is a hidden gem.

Morocco’s cities offer a wealth of experiences, from the bustling markets and historical medinas of Marrakech and Fes to the tranquil blue streets of Chefchaouen and the beachfront relaxation in Agadir. In Casablanca, you can explore modernity and tradition, while Essaouira’s coastal charm and Rabat’s rich history make for captivating stops.

Tangier offers a unique blend of Moroccan and European influences, while Ouarzazate provides a gateway to the Sahara and a taste of the cinematic world. Meknes, often overlooked, is a hidden gem for those seeking history and grand architecture. Enjoy your journey through the magical cities of Morocco, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes await at every turn.

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Originating from Portugal, Alberto Ferreiro is an avid globetrotter, fueled by an insatiable curiosity to explore the world's diverse landscapes. With a particular affinity for islands, Alberto finds solace in the allure of secluded paradises. His travel narratives paint vivid pictures of faraway lands, kindling a sense of wanderlust in readers and inspiring them to embark on their own island-bound adventures

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Top 8 Cities to Visit in Morocco When Vacationing for 7–14 Days

What are the top 8 cities to visit in Morocco when vacationing for 7–14 days? Below are some helpful suggestions for trip planning.

When planning a vacation for 7–14 days, the magical multicultural Morocco should definitely rank top of your list. Culturally, Morocco is a mixture of Arabic, African, and European elements along with the indigenous Berbers. Geographically, it's surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and Western Sahara, and is also home to the roof of North Africa — Toubkal. This makes it possible to include some leisurely beach time, hike along mountain trails, and explore the immense sand kingdom during the same trip.

Below are the top 8 cities to visit in Morocco and 14 days is normally adequate to reach all of them. Yet in one week, you can still find out why Morocco deserves the name of the "Garden of North Africa" by selecting three or four of them, with choices that include Casablanca, Fez, Marrakesh, Chefchaouen, Agadir, Ouarzazate, Merzouga, and Meknes.

Casablanca — the White City

Casablanca, also called the "bride of the Atlantic", is widely liked for its rows of white houses that date back to the 18th century. It always reminds people of the romantic movie that starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart, yet its true identity is the busiest port city and biggest economic center of Morocco as well as a laboratory for modernized art that's full of cosmopolitan arts venues, restaurants, and nightclubs.

The modernized architectural structures there have attracted lots of European architects since the 20th century. The most typical and famous one is the Hassan II Mosque, which is the third biggest mosque in the world. One-third of it is built on the sea to commemorate where the Arabs' ancestors came from. It's also the landmark of the city.

Most people choose Casablanca as the first stop of their trip as it can be easily reached by flight and it's conveniently connected to other key cities, such as Fez, Marrakesh, Rabat, Meknes, and Tangier.

Fez — the Oldest Imperial City

Fez is the most famous ancient imperial city (the other three are Rabat, Marrakesh, and Meknes) in Morocco and is still the religious and cultural center, where the oldest existing university in the world is located. During the golden era, it was attractive to scholars, philosophers, mathematicians, lawyers, astronomers, and theologians, and its influence spread across all Arabic regions.

The medina and the imperial city are UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites but, interestingly, it is Chouara Tannery that has become an "Internet celebrity" nowadays because of its remarkably medieval style. When standing on one of the surrounding balconies for a bird's-eye view, you can see how laborers stir the dye in the vats with their lower bodies — you can even smell the history there.

Marrakesh — the Red City

Besides the ember city walls and red houses from the Middle Ages that make it special and impressive, Marrakech is also a beautiful city with two faces — the historical relics and ancient customs that have lasted for hundreds of years in the medina are in sharp contrast to the modern districts, such as Guéliz and Hivernage.

Imagine walking around the old Arabic neighborhood and tasting the local food at Jemaa el-Fna Square (which is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Site) while watching the performance of a snake charmer, monkey trainer, or jongleur, and trying not to get lost in the souks (markets) where rugs, leather goods, silverware, and crockery of all shapes and sizes dazzle your eyes.

To mountain hikers, a 1-day excursion for Setti Fatma or 2-day excursion for Toubkal from Marrakech cannot be missed.   

Chefchaouen — the Blue City

The most popular theory about the blue houses in Chefchaouen is that the Jews who escaped from Hitler around 1930 introduced the blue color to keep the heat at bay. Another theory is that the blue coloring keeps mosquitoes away.

No matter what, the blue coloring is the biggest charm to tourists and it makes the medina appear to be a fairy-tale town where you can capture artistic scenes with your camera.

Agadir — All about the Beaches

Top up your tan, go yachting, or try surfing — there are many options to help you enjoy your stay in Agadir. The fine sand along the shoreline makes it the most popular resort in Morocco.

If you don't mind spending more days there, excursions to the lovely seaside town Essaouira (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and especially Legzira Beach (one of 20 stunning cliffside beaches recognized by CNN) are highly recommended. One of the two arches at Legzira Beach collapsed in late 2016 and the other one is also at risk of collapsing so try to witness this wonder before it's too late.

Ouarzazate — Travel into the Game of Thrones

Do you still remember the scene when the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen, frees the slaves in Yunkai? Ait Ben Haddou (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in Ouarzazate is where this scene took place. The sunrise and sunset at Ait Ben Haddou are spectacular.

Ouarzazate's scenery can also be found in movies like Lawrence of Arabia (1962) and The Mummy (1999). Atlas Film Studios in Morocco is like a small version of Hollywood.

Merzouga — the Gate of Sahara

About 3 kilometers' drive from Merzouga to the edge of the desert, a camel ride awaits you, taking between 45 minutes and an hour before you reach the desert camp. The sunlight plays with the shadows and red sand in the boundless Sahara, and this can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for people of all ages. A car ride is optional for seniors and children.

Meknes — La Ville Aux Cent Minarets

La ville aux cent minarets, which also means "the city of a hundred minarets", reflects its glorious moments from 1672 to 1727. Numerous palaces, gardens, city gates, and mosques were built during that time. The architectural style is compatible with both the delicate and luxurious Islamic style and the ornate and imperial European style.

It's one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco, named the "Versailles of Morocco" by the French, and one of Morocco's ancient imperial cities, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The 5 Best Cities to Visit in Morocco (Ranked)

Morocco is one of the world’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, with visitors flocking here from all over the world. Morocco is filled with beautiful places that deserve a visit, but it is often impossible to visit them all on one trip to Morocco.

This post is going to outline what I think are the 5 best cities to visit in Morocco, hopefully helping you to decide where to visit. While everyone’s preferences are different, I think this post should be pretty helpful in narrowing down your destinations!

Honorable Mention: Casablanca

Casablanca is a really great city to visit, but many people simply pass right by it en route to other cities in Morocco. I don’t think that this is fair at all. It is the biggest city in Morocco by far, and has a lot of really great things to offer tourists.

With great museums, an iconic bar, and the second-biggest mosque in Africa, Casablanca is no city to overlook. It is certainly more than just a concrete jungle.

What really puts Casablanca on this list, though, is how easy it is to visit. Casablanca has the biggest and busiest airport in Morocco, and is often the best place to fly into.

There are several direct flight routes from the United States to Casablanca. This is another thing that most other Moroccan cities cannot offer. Casablanca makes for a great entryway into Morocco, and is a great place to spend your first two or last two days.

For more information on visiting Casablanca, be sure to check out my Casablanca travel guide.

5. Essaouira

Essaouira is the second-smallest city on this list with a meager population of just around 80,000 people. Regardless, it is one of the most interesting places that you can visit in Morocco.

It is famous for its previous history as Morocco’s largest port city, and more popularly a frequent hangout of pirates. This small city no longer has Morocco’s largest port and no longer has pirates, but still has many of the remnants of its glory days.

Essaouira is a great beach escape.

It’s the closest beach to Marrakech, and this is why it was selected in the first place to have such an important port. Nowadays, it makes for a great beach escape, and you can stay near the port to be woken up by the sound of the waves. It is not one of Morocco’s iconic cities, but it is one that makes for a great complement to any trip that includes a stop in Marrakech.

4. Chefchaouen

Essaouira is small, but Chefchaouen is even smaller. This city of less than 50,000 people is just over half the size of Essaouira, but has arguably twice the charm.

Chefchaouen is popularly known for its blue buildings inside the walls of the city. This alone makes it one of the most Instagrammable cities in Morocco. It is located deep in the mountains in northern Morocco, and is most easily visited via Tangier or Fes.

Chefchaouen is easily the most instagrammable city in Morocco.

While Chefchaouen is beautiful, it is very small. For this reason, you only need a couple of days here on your trip to Morocco. While you could get away with visiting Chefchaouen for just one day, it is pretty remote, and staying for a second day makes the trip a little more worth your while.

Rabat is the capital city of Morocco, and it is one of the coolest places that you can visit. It is a striking blend of old and new, from a very traditional Medina to glimmering, new surroundings.

As the capital of Morocco, this is also where you can find the main Royal Palace, which is truly a beautiful sight. Many people skip over it when visiting Morocco, but I think that this is a mistake.

If you want a true, authentic Moroccan Medina, Rabat is the place to go.

Rabat is located just a short ride north of Casablanca, which makes it extremely accessible. It’s also located on the beach, which is something that other popular cities like Fes, Meknes, and Marrakech can’t offer.

Between its cultural significance as the capital and its tourist attractions, I think it belongs on any Moroccan itinerary. If you want a true, authentic Moroccan Medina, this is the place to go. Check out my Rabat Travel Guide for more information before you visit.

Morocco is very famous for its imperial cities, including the large city of Fes. Fes is the second-largest city in Morocco, and it offers just about everything that a visitor to Morocco could want.

From a gorgeous Medina to authentic markets and restaurants, Fes is widely considered to be one of the two best cities to visit in Morocco. Fes is located in the northern-central part of Morocco, somewhat near Rabat, Tangier, and Casablanca.

Many people say that Fes is the most authentic Morocco experience.

Of all of the major cities in Morocco, many people say that Fes offers tourist the most authentic experience. Fes sees significantly fewer tourists than the number one city on this list, arguably leaving visitors with a purer view of true Moroccan life and culture.

Don’t get me wrong: Fes is perfectly modern and ready to accommodate tourists. It just doesn’t gear itself explicitly to tourism, providing visitors with a less glamorous, but more authentic, experience than its other major imperial counterpart. This leads us to…

1. Marrakech

The other cities on this list are all fantastic places to visit. They all deserve consideration when you are planning where to go in Morocco. However, to me, the best city to visit in Morocco is very clear: Marrakech.

Marrakech is very similar in its nature to Fes, except that it has flung its doors wide-open to tourism. While some will say that this provides a more watered-down experience, I think that it offers exactly what most tourists are looking for.

I went into much more detail in my Marrakech travel guide . But basically, Marrakech is the city where all of your Moroccan fantasies come to life.

Day trips into the desert? Check.

Camel rides? Check.

Wandering through packed markets? Check.

Luxury hotels and palaces? Check.

Deluxe gardens, a massive square with snake charmers and dancing monkeys, and gorgeous mosques? Check, check, and check.

I think that Marrakech is without a doubt the best city to visit on your first trip to Morocco, because it not only has all of these things, but it makes them very accessible.

Every major city in Morocco has markets, mosques , pretty squares, and camels. But not every city makes them as accessible and comfortable as Marrakech does.

If you are looking for one city that can offer you the full Moroccan experience, I think that city is Marrakech. You could spend an entire week here and have more to see and do.

– R E A D –

Thanks for reading my post on the top 5 best cities to visit in Morocco. Hopefully, this list helps you plan out where to go on your next trip to this northwestern African nation. If you have any questions about visiting Morocco at all, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’ve got you covered.

Also, be sure to check out our other Morocco blog posts before you travel!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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12 of the best things to do in Morocco

Mar 29, 2024 • 9 min read

From exploring the Red City of Marrakesh to surfing on the Atlantic Coast, here are Morocco's top experiences © Tim E White / Getty Images

Morocco is a country of dazzling diversity, from its ancient cities and craggy mountain ranges to rolling deserts and deserted beaches . 

One day you could be scaling Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak; the next, you could be meeting designers in Marrakesh, riding the Atlantic rollers in Essaouira, strolling through the twisting blue alleyways of Chefchaouen or savoring street food in the medieval medina of Fez.

There’s certainly no shortage of things to do, but here are some of the best.

1. Lose yourself in the medinas of Marrakesh, Fez and Chefchaouen

The fabled Red City of  Marrakesh is a sensory overload of sights, sounds and smells. Its ancient medina is a maze of narrow streets with the  Djemaa El Fna – arguably Africa’s most famous square – at its heart, and its nightly circus of storytellers, snake charmers and musicians.

In  Fez , Morocco’s oldest imperial city, time appears to have stopped. Dating back to the 8th century, Fez El Bali – the world’s largest living medieval medina – is a jumble of souqs, workshops and mosques, with a tangle of more than 9000 narrow alleyways to explore.

Tucked into the green folds of the Rif Mountains, charming  Chefchaouen is famed for its blue-hued medina. Soak up its relaxed pace of life by wandering its cobbled streets and sipping a mint tea in an open square, then hike the trails of  Talassemtane National Park with its luminous waterfalls and forests of fir trees.

Planning tip : The best time for exploring Morocco ’s medinas is spring and autumn. Summers get very hot – temperatures can reach over 40°C (104°F) in July and August – and winters can be cold.

Explore Marrakesh effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

2. Check out Casablanca’s show-stopping architecture

Casablanca ’s most iconic landmark is the Hassan II Mosque , one of the world’s largest mosques, open to non-Muslims on guided tours. The monumental prayer hall can hold 25,000 worshippers – another 80,000 can fit in the courtyards outside – and it showcases the finest Moroccan crafts, with hand-carved stucco, painted wood and stunning zellige (mosaic tilework).

Downtown Casa is an al fresco museum of architecture, from the neo-Moorish tiled façade of La Grande Poste to art deco apartment blocks, and Place Mohammed V’s uber-modern Grand Théâtre de Casablanca designed by French "starchitect" Christian de Portzamparc.

3. Hike the Atlas Mountains 

The  High Atlas is a hiker’s paradise , running diagonally across the country for around 1000km (620 miles), from the Atlantic coast to northern Algeria. Imlil , located in the foothills of the High Atlas 90 minutes from Marrakesh, is the jumping-off point for scaling Toubkal , North Africa’s highest peak at 4167m (13670ft), a two-day ascent.

If you have more time, the week-long Toubkal circuit follows centuries-old trails between remote Amazigh villages, crossing fertile valleys, rugged massifs and panoramic passes.

For even less-trodden trails, the region around  Tafraoute is Morocco’s Amazigh heartland, where tribes and traditions hold firm. Surrounded by lush palm groves and hilltop kasbahs, the Anti Atlas makes the perfect base for hikers – at 2359m (7740ft), Jebel El Kest is the region’s highest peak, but there are more gentle hiking and cycling routes passed the picturesque villages of the Ameln Valley.

4. Catch the wind and waves on Morocco’s Atlantic coast

Dubbed the “Wind City of Africa” for its coastal breezes, Essaouira is the perfect spot to take to the water, whatever your ability. Sleepy Sidi Kaouki, 30 minutes' drive south, is another option, with consistent waves, wild beaches and wallet-friendly accommodation.

Further down the coast, quiet Mirleft , 130km (80 miles) south of Agadir , is home to some of Morocco’s best surfing spots. Here Spot-M takes out experienced and novice surfers for group and individual lessons, and it runs week-long surf camps with yoga thrown in.

Detour : Far-flung  Dakhla is as south as it gets, but with reliable year-round wind conditions and calm lagoon waters, it’s being hailed as Morocco’s kitesurfing capital.

Transform your visit to Morocco’s Atlantic coast by  booking with GetYourGuide.

5. Get steamed and scrubbed at a hammam

After a long day of sightseeing, head to a hammam to be steamed, soaped, scrubbed and massaged into a state of total relaxation. Every neighborhood has one, and they come in all shapes, sizes and levels of luxury, from a simple steam and scrub at a no-frills public bathhouse to a higher-price private hammam at a swanky hotel with more elaborate wraps and massages on offer. Wherever you go, you’ll emerge squeaky clean with baby-soft skin.

Planning tip : Pick up traditional hammam gear at the souq, including savon beldi (black soap), a kessa (course scrubbing mitt) and ghassoul (cleansing clay).

Transform your visit to a Hammam by booking with  GetYourGuide .

6. Take a foodie tour of Fez medina

Moroccan cuisine is a genuine melting pot – alongside Amazigh (Berber) influences, Arabs, Moors, Ottoman Turks and French all left their culinary mark. One of the best ways to discover it is on a street-food tour. Fearless foodies sample everything from snail soup to boiled sheep’s head, plus tempting sweet treats such as chebakia (deep-fried dough coated in sesame seeds) and wild honey.

Head to the legendary Café Clock to learn how to create three traditional dishes after souq shopping for super-fresh ingredients, or dive into the dough at  The Ruined Garden , where you’ll bake five kinds of typical bread, including baghrir or “thousand-holes” pancake.

Detour : In the Middle Atlas, you can also visit a boutique fromagerie , discover the age-old process of hand-rolling couscous and taste new Moroccan wine from a French enologist. Check out luxury tour outfit Plan-it Morocco for more.

Explore the Fez Medina effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

7. Shop-til-you-drop in Marrakesh

Marrakesh will satisfy the most insatiable shopaholic. The labyrinthine passageways of the souq are devoted to everything from aromatic spices to leather babouches (slippers) and shaggy wool rugs, with artisans weaving, hammering and carving out their wares as they’ve done for centuries. And now homegrown and international designers are working alongside them, giving age-old crafts a contemporary twist.

The fixed-price boutiques of Gueliz (the French-built Ville Nouvelle) take away the hassle of haggling . Along the rue de la Liberté, Atika sells top-quality leather shoes for a fraction of the price of designer brands. And opposite the must-see  Jardin Majorelle (the former home of Yves Saint Laurent), concept store 33 rue Majorelle stocks clothes, accessories and jewelry from top Moroccan designers, including fair trade cooperatives.

Local tip : Don't begin negotiating on a price unless you genuinely want to buy something. Remain calm and courteous. If you feel under intense pressure to make a purchase, you can always walk away, but remember: for shopkeepers, this is their livelihood. 

8. Stargaze from a shape-shifting Saharan dune 

Scramble to the summit of a sky-high dune at sunset and savor the silence and the stellar views as you watch the desert turn gold, pink and purple. Camp overnight Bedouin style and sleep under a blanket of stars. You might spot the arc of the Milky Way. At Erg Chigaga , you’re not only off the grid but also several hours' camel trek from the nearest street lights.

Planning tips:  Travel in the Sahara is best between October and early May. In the depths of the Saharan winter (especially December and January), overnight temperatures can fall below freezing. Almost unbearable heat blankets the Sahara from June to early September. Camel excursions head out from M’Hamid into the Erg Chigaga. From Merzouga, you can also take a 4WD trip out into Erg Chebbi. Both Merzouga and M’Hamid are a one-day bus ride from Marrakesh.

9. Move to the rhythms at one of Morocco’s many music festivals 

Morocco’s rich musical culture boasts influences from Amazigh to Andalusian, Arabian to sub-Saharan, and it’s fast becoming a top spot for music festivals showcasing eclectic rhythms.

One of the most popular is the Gnaoua World Music Festival , which draws festival-goers to the laid-back coastal city of Essaouira for four days of open-air concerts featuring the hypnotic rhythms of gnaoua , a musical and spiritual tradition brought north by sub-Saharan enslaved people in the 16th century. Casablanca plays host to Jazzablanca , which showcases well-known and up-and-coming artists from Morocco and around the globe. 

Sufi chanters, African-American jazz saxophonists, Colombian harpists and international headliners like Björk flock to Fez for its annual Festival of World Sacred Music. Mawazine is said to be the world’s largest music festival, attracting a staggering 2.75 million people and turning Rabat into a gigantic open-air stage.

Planning tip : If you’re heading to a festival, book your accommodation as far in advance as possible and be prepared for higher prices.

10. Step back in time in Skoura’s palm oases

Like a green carpet spread on top of the red-tinged rocky landscape, Skoura’s idyllic palmeraie rustles with dates palms. With stylish guesthouses and farm-to-fork restaurants, it makes the perfect place to linger and enjoy the slower pace of oasis life.

The region is dotted with labyrinthine ksar (fortified villages), including Ait Ben Haddou – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and star of many a film, including Gladiator (2000) – and imposing mud-brick kasbahs , such as the magical ruins of  Kasbah Amridil . Rural souqs showcase the oases’ bountiful produce, including pomegranates, apricots, figs and almonds, and it makes a great base to explore the scenic  Dadès Gorge and  Todra Gorge to the northeast, and the  Draa Valley to the southeast.

11. Follow in the footsteps of literary giants in Tangier 

For the first half of the 20th century, Tangier was one of the Mediterranean’s most cosmopolitan resorts, an International Zone with a bohemian vibe beloved by the Beat Generation in the 1950s.

A host of literary figures have taken their inspiration from this legendary port city over the years. William S. Burroughs penned Naked Lunch at the Hotel El-Muniria, where you can still take a mint tea on the terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. And Paul Bowles made Tangier his home for more than 50 years, using it as both subject and setting for The Sheltering Sky . Visit his exhibition at the  Tangier American Legation Museum , then follow in his footsteps to Café Hafa overlooking the Straits of Gibraltar.

You can find these authors and more in the historic bookstore Librarie des Colonnes , which opened its doors in 1949 and was frequented by the likes of Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote.

Explore Tangier effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

12. Ride the rails on Africa’s first high-speed train 

The launch of Al Boraq – Africa’s first high-speed rail link named after a mythical winged steed – means you can visit Tangier on a day trip from Casablanca or combine the two very different coastal cities on a mini-break. The slick silver train will whizz you to your destination in just over two hours, hitting speeds of up to 320kmh (200mph), with stops in Rabat and Kenitra. And it’s eco-friendly, getting 25% of its power from renewable energy, with plans to extend this to 50% by the end of 2023.

Planning tip : If the ONCF website still only takes Moroccan credit cards, you'll need to buy tickets at the station. Alternatively, you can go through an online retailer like  Marrakech Tickets , who will add a small commission fee to the total.

This article was first published October 2022 and updated March 2024

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7 Cities to Visit in Morocco on Your First Visit (And Where to Stay!)

If you’re starting to plan your trip, here are 7 solid cities to visit in Morocco that’ll give you a good introduction to the country!

Over the 3 weeks Autumn and I spent in Morocco , we wound up going through 7 cities in basically one perfect loop from Tangier to Essaouira (and Casablanca, but I only flew out of there). It sounds like a lot, but I think the key to enjoying Morocco, especially on your first visit, is to keep moving. We did everything from shop in the medinas to ride camels in the desert and more. I like to think we had a great introduction while also seeing enough that if we never get the change to return, we won’t have any regrets.

With that said, here are the cities I think are worth visiting!

7 Cities to Visit in Morocco

Tangier’s biggest claim to fame (at least in my head) is that it’s incredibly close to Spain and the northern Moroccan border. Specifically, it sits as the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. Because of its location, Tangier has been known for its mix of cultures and as a major port city.

We flew here solely because it was the closest city to Chefchaoeun (only 2-3 hours), so we had about one full day to walk around. We didn’t do much persay, but we just wandered around the medina, along the coast, and ate at some nearby places. If I replanned this trip, I’d give us an extra day so we could go out to the Cave of Hercules and Cape Spartel.

Here are some tour options for Tangier:

• 6-Hour Private Highlights Tour
• Tangier and Asilah Full Day Tour
• Tetouan Half-Day City Tour

Where to Stay in Tangier

We stayed at the Tanja Lucia Hostel ($) in a 4-female dorm room. Overall, we had a really pleasant experience, and the one host was particularly friendly and helpful. It’s right in the medina, so it’s a bit tricky to find at first. I enjoyed the sitting areas the most and, of course, the views from the balcony.

However, I do have to say they were some odd moments to be aware of, especially if you’re a woman traveling solo. There was an older man who seemed to staying there long term that made us a touch uncomfortable, and one of the girls we became friendly with told us later in Chefchaoeun that one of the hosts got her number and texted her inappropriately after we’d all left. I mean,  check here ,  for more reviews and see for yourself.

I’ll leave it up to your judgement, but here are some other options as we noted as well:

• Hotel Maram
• Airbnb Room in Tangier
• Dar Essaki 1886
• Tangier Chez Habitant

2. Chefchaouen

The famous blue city of Chefchaouen ! This was obviously on my list as it’s a photographer’s dream. I also read the town is much more relaxed compared to the rest of Morocco, so I thought it’d be a nice way to get more acclimated to the culture. 

I will say, I feel like because the area is so calm and blue, it kind of emphasizes it when the men get a little too aggressive. It stood out more to me here than in Fes, but it might have just been me still getting used to Morocco. Remember to just ignore them and keep walking. 

If I went again, I’d give us an extra day to go hiking because there are really nice waterfalls nearby. Otherwise, you’re kind of walking around the town eating and taking photos the whole time since, besides the Kasbah, there’s not much to do . 

Here are some tour options for Chefchaoeun:

I do think, if you’re only visiting for photos, a day is probably enough, so here are some tours from nearby cities:

• Fes (4 hours+)
• Tangier (2 hours+)
• Rabat (4 hours+)

If you’re staying in town and still want a guided tour, try this private one.

Where to Stay in Chefchaoeun

We stayed at  Dar Antonio ($)   in a private two bed room but with a shared bathroom. It was a really nice place right in the medina and near a main square. The only issue I really have is how hard it is to find! It literally is like a little blue cave, and most people we asked didn’t know where it was. It doesn’t show up where it’s supposed to be on Maps.Me either! The hosts were really lovely, and the guesthouse was really well designed.  Check here for prices + availability

If Dar Antonio is booked, we also looked at these places:

• Casa a Chauen Guest House
• Casa Karam with Terrace
• Casa La Hiba
• Usha Guest House
• Dar Lalla Chafia
• La Maisonette
• Casa Meryem

Fes is one of the oldest cities in Morocco and the second largest after Casablanca. It dates all the way back to the 700 and 800s, and from what I read, its medina, Fes el Bali, which was also built around the same time, is the best preserved. I’d say Fes’s most notable feature is the Chouara Tannery, which you can see from different rooftops and balconies. 

We basically had two days to walk around, and in addition to the tannery and staying in the medina, we walked out towards the old Jewish Quarter and the royal palace! Check my post for a more detailed guide on what to do in Fes.

Here are some tour options for Fes:

• Fes Medina Guided Tour
• Private Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
• Handicrafts and Shopping Tour
• Full-Day Fes Cooking Class Experience

Where to Stay in Fes

We stayed at the  Riad Dar Lmallouki , which I found on Airbnb. I’m going to be honest the actual accommodation isn’t going to be the fanciest or even the most private place. All the rooms surround a kind of courtyard below, and you’ll want to keep the windows open for airflow.

However, the rooms are clean, the bathroom nice, and, most importantly, the hosts were AMAZING. Hasan was so lovely, and he was always eager to help us with anything. Autumn and I both left wanting to marry Abradhim, who was in charge of breakfast and even did our laundry!

Anyway I’d stay here again because the hosts were so freaking lovely, and it’s right in the medina near the Blue Gate, so it’s super central to everything.  Check here for prices + availability

If Riad Dar Lmallouki is booked, here are some other places we had bookmarked:

• Fés Touria Palace
• Dar Lemrabet
• Dar Bouanania
• Airbnb in Medina

4. Merzouga

If you’re hoping to visit the desert while in Morocco and  not do a multi-day Marrakech excursion, then Merzouga is one of the places you want to stay. It’s right by the Cherg Ebbi sand dunes and is otherwise a pretty sleepy town. I personally didn’t love the town itself, so I wouldn’t hangout here for an extended time. I did however enjoy how close it was to the sand dunes, and if you go at a cooler time, you could actually walk out to them right from town. 

Here are some tour options for Merzouga:

• Overnight Camel Trek
• Full-Day 4×4 Dunes Tour

Where to Stay in Merzouga

We stayed at  Family Moroccan House or  Dar Gambra.  I’m going to be honest, we didn’t love our stay. It’s weird because they did do a lot of nice things in helping us, but I also feel like they did twice as much in trying to upsell or slightly manipulate us. I started writing everything down, and it just got exhausting and too long, so if you ever meet me and want to know all the details, just ask haha. 

I will give them that the luxury desert tour & camel riding they set up for us was really nice, and we loved our guide, Hasan, who was cracking jokes the whole time he was leading us through the Sahara. Anyway,  check here to see everything for yourself if you do want to book. 

Here are other places I’d rather have stayed:

• Riad Ali   (this is where we went for the pool both days and it looked so nice)
• Auberge Le Petit Prince  
• Riad Dar Hassan
• Kasbah Mohayut

5. Ouarzazate 

Sitting south of the High Atlas mountains, Ouarzazate is most known as Morocco’s little Hollywood since its film sets have seen the likes of everyone from Doris Day to Emilia Clarke! The biggest site — Ait Ben Haddou — is actually about 30 minutes away. You might just recognize it as Yunkai from “Game of Thrones.” There is also the Cinema Museum and the Atlas Studios area where there’s a lot of filming done.

Autumn and I really liked Ouarzazate, and it’s one of the places I’d probably return to if I were to come back to Morocco! I picked it randomly on the map when I was looking for places to stop between Merzouga and Marrakech to break up what would be a 12 hour bus ride. I didn’t know it had so much movie history and incredible views!

I strongly recommend renting a car and driving out to the Telouet Kasbah even if it’s a 90+minute, very mountainous drive. The views are insane, and we were in awe the whole time. Don’t go to the bigger brand names car rentals because they’re over 3x the price! We rented from one of the smaller shops downtown and got our car for 520 MAD for 24 hours vs. the 1600 MAD Europcar quoted us!

Here are some tour options for Ouarzazate:

• Private City Tour Ouarzazate
• Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate
• Ait Ben Haddou & Telouet Day Trip

Where to Stay in Ouarzazate

We stayed at  Dar Rita ,  and I wanted to kiss the ground after our first night! Compared to our miserable night’s sleep in Merzouga, we slept like absolute babies! There’s a perfectly functioning A/C unit right above the double bed, which basically put it in the front of my favorites right away. 

On top of that, our hosts were the loveliest! They were so friendly and welcoming, and, hey, they put the prices for extra things on the back of the doors like you ought to. Location-wise it’s not the most central, but we walked quite  bit our first night and were fine. Check here for prices &  availability

If Dar Rita is booked, you can also try:

• Le Temple Des Arts

6. Marrakech

Ahhh Marrakech — the number one the top cities to visit in Morocco! Some people who visit the country,  only visit this bustling place. It’s a huge hub for travelers, and a lot of the places we visited for multiple days can technically be done as a day trip or 2-3 day Marrakech excursion.  

We didn’t spend a  ton of time in Marrakech, so we missed some of the bigger highlights. I spent one of our two full days there on a day trip to the Ouzoud Waterfalls while Autumn finished a big grad school project. The next day we hit Jardin Marjorelle, had lunch at the loveliest place called the Amal Centre , and then did a really fun evening food tour with Marrakech Food Tours.  

Here are some tour options for Marrakech:

• Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip  (I booked this one!)
• Half-Day Desert Quad & Dromedary Tour
• Private Tour with a Local Guide
• Marrakech Cooking Class

Where to Stay in Marrakesh

We stayed at  Riad the Ocher City . It’s owned by Jessica, this lovely French woman and her sister. The riad is nicely located and it’s beautiful on the inside! It’s just so airy and spacious looking, and our room is at least tied with Dar Rita for being the most luxurious feeling place we stayed. Breakfast is extra, but it’s only like 50 MAD. Of course, my favorite part of the whole place is their cheeky cat, Simba!  Check here for rates & availability

If it’s booked, we also looked at these:

• Private Room in Medina
• Dar D’Art
• Khadija Riad with Pool
• Riad Marrakech Shambala

7. Essaouira

Ahhh Essaouira, or as GoT fans might call it, Astapor, home to the Unsullied! I’m so happy my last major place was Essaouira because it’s such a different vibe than everywhere else, and it’s tied with Ouarzazate as one of my favorite cities to visit in Morocco, and I’d say of all seven on this list, it also felt like the safest.

It’s just airier and more relaxed. The medina doesn’t feel like a claustrophobic mess, and the sea breeze is the loveliest of all. It was also the coolest place we stayed — we actually got a few goosebumps at night!

We kind of just enjoyed the atmosphere and our last few days in Morocco! Some of the best things to do in Essaouira are roaming around the port and indulging in the freshest of seafood. I also did a bit of shopping towards the end for a little straw bag and some souvenirs for friends.

Here are some tour options for Essaouira:

• Surf Lessons in Essaouira
• Half-Day Quad Bike Tour of Sand Dunes
• 2 Hour Camel Ride
• Half-Day Old Town Guided Tour

Where to Stay in Essaouira

We stayed  Dar Moonlight Riad through Airbnb, and it was the perfect little place! Saïd came and fetched us at the Supratours bus station and helped us walk into the medina to find where our apartment would be. The terrace is really lovely, and that’s where the WiFi is. I honestly slept up on the couch there because the night air was so cool and lovely.  Check here for rates & availability

If Dar Moonlight is booked, try these:

• Private Room in a Riad
• Riad Salmiya
• Riad Dar Awil
• Riad Essalam

Bonus: Some More Cities to Add if You Have Longer

• Agadir –  Further south than Essaouira; apparently if you rent a car and drive in between the cities, you  might just see the famous goats on trees!
• Casablanca – I guess I technically  was in Casablanca for a day, but I was tired, and we weren’t staying near any of the big sights. Autumn spent more time there after I left, so maybe I can get her to write a mini-guide for us! There’s not a  ton for travelers here because it’s not so much a tourist city like Fez or Marrakech. The one big thing I had wanted to see was the mosque by the sea.
• Rabat –  The capital city of Morocco. I don’t know too much about it beyond that — this is where Meghan Markle and Prince Harry visited though! 
• Meknes –  With Rabat, Marrakech, and Fez, Meknes is last of the imperial cities in Morocco on this list! It dates all the way back to the 1000s  There are a lot of cool, historical sites around hte area, like Volubilis, Roman ruins, and the really gorgeous Bab Mansour Gate from the 1700s.

Tips for Visiting Morocco

As for more travel tips, here’s how to get around Morocco since we did quite the combination in our time there! If you want some culinary inspiration, then check out my guide on what to eat in Morocco as well. Also don’t miss my tips on what to wear !

And there you have it! Seven cities to visit in Morocco to help you start planning your trip. Let me know if I’ve missed any!

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• Jan 31, 2023

Morocco: The Ultimate Travel Guide (Best Places To Visit + Itineraries)

Morocco is located in the northwest corner of Africa. Thanks to its stunning landscapes, colorful cities, year-round pleasant weather, and unique cuisine, Morocco is a popular travel destination. And although the country is rapidly modernizing, it still retains much of its ancient architecture and even more of its traditional customs. In this article, we’ll highlight the most important things to know before going, the 10 best places to visit in Morocco, and some itineraries we recommend.

Check out our video on Morocco to see the best places to visit through our camera!

Table Of Contents

Important things to know.

Best Places To Visit In Morocco + map

Proposed Morocco Itineraries

Tips to save money and other resources

Best time to travel to Morocco

The best time to visit Morocco is from April until June and from September until November . In these months, you will have good weather and not too many tourists. Keep in mind that at the beginning of spring and at the end of autumn, rain is not unusual.

Cost and currency

Overall, Morocco is very affordable . Accommodation, food, and tourist attractions are often way cheaper than other popular travel destinations. In Morocco, they use the Moroccan Dirham , so if you plan on going, keep an eye on the exchange rates to save more money.

Safety in Morocco

Morocco is a safe country to travel to as long as you understand its laws and cultural customs , and adhere to the status quo. Its crime rates are relatively low but be aware of scam artists and pickpockets which are common in Morocco, especially in the cities! Also watch out for people trying to sell you drugs, which is more common in northern Morocco.

Morocco Travel Tips

1. First, we only recommend driving a rental car if you’re comfortable with long distances . There are also a large number of police checkpoints and we got multiple fines during our road trip.

2. Second, we recommend spending more time in nature rather than in the chaotic cities , like Marrakech or Fez. Cities have a reputation for people who offer a service you haven’t requested which can be exhausting at times.

3. Finally, the WiFi connection was poor when we were there. So it’s best to get a SIM card upon arrival , which is fairly cheap (around 200 dirham - to be paid in cash - for 20GB). Maroc Telecom or INWI sim cards are the preferred ones with best coverage.

Best Places To Visit In Morocco

We'll now highlight 10 of the best places to visit in Morocco.

If you're traveling to Morocco and want to save time searching for directions to all of the places we mention in this article, then look no further than our custom map. Simply click on a point in the map below to get directions there for yourself!

Located in northern Morocco, Fez is one of the most ancient cities in Morocco . Rich in culture, traditions, and history, Fez is often referred to as the country’s cultural capital. Spend a day or two exploring the chaotic medina that is filled with madrasas, palaces, residences, mosques, and other structures that date back to as early as the 9th century. A good way to do this is by taking a guided tour of the medina . But also make sure to venture outside the old town to see what Fez has developed into today. If you're interested in visiting Fez, make sure to check out our blog with everything you need to know about Fez .

9. Essaouira & the Atlantic Coast

At number 9 we have Essaouira , a bohemian city situated along the Atlantic Coast. Known as the windy city of North Africa, lots of surfers, kitesurfers, and windsurfers find their way here. But visitors also enjoy strolling through the fortified medina , walking along the beach boulevard , or simply relaxing at the hotel. But if you’re looking for sunbathing and swimming, you might want to look at other beach destinations along the Atlantic Coast, such as Agadir , Oualidia , Asilah, Taghazout .

8. Dades Valley

Another beautiful place to visit in Morocco is Dades Valley . Located in the south, it’s often nicknamed the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” because this valley is dotted with palm trees and mudbrick palaces . But what makes the landscape really unique is its red rock formations and the serpentine road at the end of the gorge. It’s best to take in this incredible scenery by driving through the valley and making a few photo stops. If you have more time, we recommend hiking to the “monkey fingers” trail .

7. Chefchaouen

At number 7 we have the small town of Chefchaouen, set amidst the Rif Mountains in the northwest of Morocco. It’s also nicknamed the “Blue City” because of picturesque streets filled with houses painted in different shades of blue. And while it’s still a mystery as to why all the houses are painted blue, it’s a fun experience to simply walk around and get lost in the alleyways. Apart from that, there are also some other interesting places worth a visit, including the Spanish Mosque for sunset , the washing stations of Ras el Ma , and the Kasbah Museum . Learn more about this intriguing city in our other blog about the best things to do in Chefchaouen .

6. Marrakech

The most popular place to visit in Morocco is undoubtedly the bustling city of Marrakech , located in the center of the country. There’s something for everyone here: whether you like to enjoy the diverse food scene , explore the historic palaces and sights, or stroll around the peaceful gardens . Start your journey at the Jemaa el-Fna square in the heart of the city. Most tourist attractions are within walking distance from here. But if you want to learn more about the local life and city history, we highly recommend going on a guided walking tour of the medina . For more information check out our blog about the best things to do in Marrakech .

5. Ouzoud Waterfalls

Located 160 kilometers or 100 miles to the east of Marrakech, the Ouzoud Waterfalls are a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With a height of 110 meters or 360 feet, these are the tallest and most spectacular waterfalls in Morocco. We visited this beautiful place as a day trip from Marrakech, which allowed us to spend about 4 hours at the falls. This tour included a guided walk down to the base of the falls with plenty of time to take in the beauty. We also encountered some monkeys along the way who inhabit this area! Overall, we really enjoyed this day tour and would definitely recommend it when you're in Marrakech. However, be aware that this place can get very busy during the high season.

4. Todra Gorge

Running parallel to Dades valley, Todra Gorge is another beautiful natural sight to see in Morocco. Here, a river carved its way through the orange limestone for centuries. As a result, canyon walls reach over 400 meters or 1300 feet high in some places. There are many ways to enjoy the gorge, whether you are an avid hiker, rock climber, mountain biker , or you prefer to simply e njoy the scenery and soak up the culture . We did a half day hike into the canyon and over its rocky walls, which we really enjoyed. We even spotted some nomadic camps along the trail.

3. Aït Ben Haddou

At number 3, we have the picturesque village of Aït Ben Haddou , located along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. It’s known for its historic clay buildings , which is a great example of Moroccan earthen architecture. And while most of the village has been abandoned in recent years, there is still a lot left for travelers to explore. Some of the main highlights include watching the sunrise and sunset from one of the many viewpoints , walking up to the ancient grain store on top of the village, and visiting one of the “kasbah’s” . If you don't have a lot of time, we recommend doing this as a day trip from Marrakech .

If you have more time in the area, we also recommend exploring nearby Ouarzazate . This city has been welcoming Hollywood directors since the ‘60s and is the movie capital. We did a guided tour of the Atlas Studios , where films like Cleopatra, The Mummy, and Gladiator were shot.

2. High Atlas Region

As North Africa’s highest mountain range, the High Atlas is a paradise for trekkers and skiers . Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Moroccan-Algerian border in the east, this region covers approximately 740 km or 460 miles. The most impressive part is undoubtedly Toubkal National Park , which is easily accessible from Marrakech by car or bus. And the beautiful village of Imlil is the starting and ending point of most hiking circuits in the park. We joined a three-day trek across three valleys and traditional berber villages. But it’s also possible to go on a day or 2-day hike here from Marrakech. We recommend the 2-day hike if you're in decent shape. The 3-day hike follows the same route and was too slow for us (the hiking time was only 4-5 hours per day for the 3-day trek).

1. Sahara Desert

The most beautiful place to visit in Morocco in our opinion is the Sahara Desert, which spans the south of the country mainly along the border with Algeria. Here, you can enjoy orange dunes, blue skies, camel trekking, camping under the stars , and much more. And while there are various desert options in Morocco, we explored the popular Erg Chebbi dunes at the edge of the town of Merzouga . Get a taste of what the nomadic life in the desert is truly like by spending at least 2 to 3 days here. Learn all about our 3-day safari experience in our Merzouga blog .

Morocco Itineraries

Here are some rough itineraries we propose:

7 days in Morocco

Marrakech (2 days)

Aït Ben Haddou + Ouarzazate (1 day)

Dades + Todra Gorge (1 day)

Merzouga desert (3 days)

10 days in Morocco

Ouzoud waterfalls (1 day trip from Marrakech)

Atlas Mountains (2 days)

14 days in Morocco:

Drive to Fez (2 days - stops in Azrou, the Ziz Gorge, or Ifrane)

Fez (1 day)

Chefchaouen (1 day trip from Fez)

OR spend the last 4 days at one of the beaches along the Atlantic Ocean (instead of Fez & Chefchaouen)

Are you traveling to Morocco but don't have time to plan all aspects of your trip? We created a detailed 10-day itinerary that has all the information and links you need, e.g. accommodations, places to eat and drink, distances, activities, etc . Everything is also pinned on a map so you can easily navigate your way around when you're there. We created this itinerary after traveling around Morocco for 4 weeks. We handpicked the most beautiful places we visited and fun activities we did. This itinerary is for the active traveler who likes hiking and nature, but also learning about the local culture and history. This itinerary saves you 40+ hours of researching and planning.

If you have more time in Morocco or you would like to explore more cities and beaches, it’s worth checking out other beautiful destinations that we didn't mention in our top 10:

Moulay Idriss

Erg Chigaga desert (M’hamid)

Use These Websites To Save Money On Your Trip To Morocco

Booking.com for places to stay

Skyscanner for cheap flights

GetYourGuide for local tours

Rentalcars.com for affordable car rentals

Free Giveaway

Did you enjoy our article on the best places to visit in Morocco? Download our free giveaway and spark your wanderlust with our top 100 travel destinations around the world!

Other Top Morocco resources:

If you're looking for some other suggestions and tips on Morocco, here are some great articles that will help you:

The 12 best things to do in Morocco by The Lonely Planet

12 Best Things To Do In Morocco by Hand Luggage Only

14 Top-Rated Things to Do in Morocco by Planetware

Need more travel inspiration? Check out our other destinations or other articles about Morocco:

Marrakesh, Morocco: A Travel Guide To The Bustling City Of Marrakesh

Chefchaouen in Morocco: A Guide To The Blue City

Fez, Morocco: A Guide To Morocco's Cultural Capital

Merzouga, Morocco: Our Merzouga Desert Trip And Honest Review

Related Posts

Hi! We are Ine & Zac. An international travel couple from Belgium and the US. We created World Wild Hearts to inspire life-changing travel experiences like we've had. Use these tips, stories, and guides to inspire your next adventure of a lifetime!

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COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL PLANNER

EXPLORING THE MAGIC : 14 TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN MOROCCO

Hey fellow Travelers, Morocco, a country in African Continent is a treasure mine of varied landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is a beautiful place where the past and present can coexist harmoniously. Morocco has something special to offer everyone, whether you are a couple looking for romance, a family looking for adventure, or a solitary traveler looking for uncommon encounters. Let’s explore these best places to visit in Morocco selected for couples, families, and lone travelers in mind.

Table of Contents

Exploring Top Places To Visit In Morocco

Majestic marrakech: unveiling the pink city.

10 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MAURITIUS: 5 THINGS TO DO FOR UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES

DISCOVER THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN EGYPT WITH FAMILY IN 2023 !!!

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SOUTH AFRICA: 10 EXQUISITE DESTINATIONS

PLACES TO VISIT IN KENYA: A JOURNEY THROUGH THESE 13 NATURAL WONDERS AND CULTURAL TREASURES

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THE JOURNAL

Travel Inspiration

Morocco’s Best Places to Visit: 6 Captivating Destinations

The Modern Travel Agency

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/morocco-best-places-to-visit

What are Morocco’s best places to visit? From Marrakech to the Sahara & Fes to Essaouira, we’re breaking down six of our favorites, with hotel recs and other tips.

Prefer a tailored experience, instead? Connect with a Fora Advisor and they’ll supply you with destination recommendations that fit your travel style, plus book your stay at the greatest hotels in Morocco at no extra cost. 

The 6 best places to visit in Morocco, from Marrakech to Essaouira

From bustling ancient cities to natural wonders, Morocco’s best places to visit are a compelling mix of culture, beauty and adventure (along with plenty of relaxation, too). Read on for six of our favorites.

1–2. Marrakech & the Atlas Mountains: culture meets natural wonder

It’s hard to think of a place that better captures so many elements of Morocco's spirit than Marrakech. This ancient city blends historical significance with contemporary Moroccan culture. 

Additionally, some of the country’s most stunning natural destinations are within day-trip distance. That includes the world-famous Sahara Desert and the lesser known but equally beautiful Atlas Mountains (we’ll come back to both). There’s also the nearby Ouzoud Falls, the largest series of waterfalls in North Africa. 

A Morocco itinerary featuring Marrakech will likely touch at least one of these destinations. But the Atlas Mountains tend to be a common choice per our Fora Advisors. For one, the change in scenery provides a majestic contrast to Marakkech’s bustling vibe. 

The Medina of Marrakech, a lively hub of culture

Marrakech’s main draw is its old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an incredible experience. This walled inner city was built nearly a millennium ago and has regularly served as the seat of power in what’s now modern-day Morocco. Captivating landmarks, dizzying souks and more make the medina a fascinating place to check out.

Unsurprisingly, the medina is a big reason Marrakech is one of Morocco’s best places to visit, and it offers a few things that are a little different from the Medina of Fes further down (we’ll touch on this again, too). Most of the best things to visit in Marrakech are within the inner city, but check out our advisor’s guide to Marrakech if you’re curious about what's beyond the medina.

(P.S. Is Morocco safe to visit after the 2023 earthquake? No question. But our guide has details.)

Where to stay in Marrakech: Royal Mansour, Four Seasons, La Mamounia…

Image courtesy of La Mamounia

The best hotels in Marrakech include a ton of our favorite hotels in Morocco . Royal Mansour Marrakech was commissioned by King Mohammed VI to serve as a riad-style hotel for elite travelers. Four Seasons Resort Marrakech is perfect for families. Then La Mamounia was our most booked hotel in Morocco last year, which says a lot.

There are so many incredible choices in Marrakech that it’s overwhelming. But if you connect with a Fora Advisor , they can help you sort through all the choices that resonate with your travel style while securing VIP hotel perks at no additional cost. 

Fora Perks at Royal Mansour Marrakech:

$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Fora Perks at Four Seasons Resort Marrakech:

When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.

Fora Perks at La Mamounia:

$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

3. Fes: one of Morocco’s best places to visit for authentic culture

As far as big cities go, Fes may be the best place to visit in Morocco for travelers who want to experience local culture at its most authentic. 

Fes is less cosmopolitan than Marrakech and much more in tune with its Islamic roots. The city is a haven for crafting, and its leather tanneries are legendary.

The Medina of Fes is pretty similar to Marrakech’s medina. There are bustling souks and impressive exhibits of ancient Moroccan architecture, plus maze-like streets primed for exploring. 

Where to stay in Fes: Riad Fes & Hotel Sahrai

Riad Fes was one of our Fora Advisors’ absolute favorite places to visit in Morocco. The overall vibe is charming, but with an overlay of luxury. Traditional Moroccan design elements are front and center here, but there are also notable Andalusian elements. 

If you prefer something more contemporary, Hotel Sahrai — Riad Fes’ sister property — is a solid choice, especially if you want to stay somewhere that will feel familiar when you’re done exploring the otherworldliness of the city at large.

Not sure which type of property better suits you? A Fora Advisor will be happy to break down all the differences.

Fora Perks at Riad Fes:

VIP welcome, breakfast daily.

Fora Perks at Hotel Sahrai:

$50 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

4. Sahara Desert: a renowned landscape that’s anything but empty

If you’ve never been to a desert, the Sahara is definitely a great first impression. First — yes —  the Sahara is exceedingly hot during the day and surprisingly frigid at night through most of the year. But if you check out our Morocco travel guide, you’ll see that the Sahara enjoys much milder temperatures and less dramatic swings in spring and fall (i.e., the best time to visit Morocco for desert adventuring).

So what makes the Sahara one of Morocco’s best places to travel to? Aside from sandboarding over dunes, off-roading through rugged valleys or camelback riding (one of our favorite things to do in Morocco), the Sahara is a beautiful place to simply take in the scenery. The horizon either seems to stretch forever or is almost jarringly interrupted by majestic mountain ranges.If you’re looking for a unique escape from urban living, consider the Sahara a contender.

If you plan your trip with a Fora Advisor , they can connect you with trusted tour guides so you get the best experience possible.

Where to stay in the Sahara Desert: Caravan by Habitas Dakhla & Agafay

Technically speaking, Caravan by Habitas Dakhla is in the Western Sahara region of Morocco — and   sits on the country’s Atlantic coast. But if your goal is to connect with nature and escape the confines of urbanity, you can’t go wrong here. 

The resort is beautiful, authentic and, perhaps most of all, fun. Here you can kitesurf in the Dakhla lagoon, dine on a rare fusion of Moroccan and Mexican cuisine and enjoy the lavish amenities of their riad-style units. 

On the other hand, Caravan by Habitas Agafay offers a true desert experience. This location is composed of elegant yet rustic tents (and lodges). But trust us when we say it’s more glamorous than it sounds — there’s a simple authenticity here that makes staying at this location a worthwhile experience. Above all, though, culture is at the heart of Caravan by Habitas Agafay, with curated activities and performances that celebrate local Moroccan traditions amid the dunes and rocky formations.

Fora Perks at Caravan by Habitas Dakla:

Complimentary Air & Concierge Services.

Fora Perks at Caravan by Habitas Agafay:

5. Chefchaouen: the Blue Pearl of Morocco

Centuries ago, the homes, buildings and walls of the town of Chefchaouen were painted a striking blue for reasons that have seemingly been lost to history. Some theories suggest the blue paint simply reflects sunlight better, serving as a clever way of keeping temperatures down, while others point to a more spiritual purpose. Either way, Chefchaouen is a spectacle to walk through. 

The blue-washed buildings create a dazzling contrast with the surrounding mountainscapes — the town is located in the Rif Mountains — while the small-town atmosphere offers a window into the everyday lives of local Moroccans, earning its place among Morocco’s best places to visit.

Where to stay near Chefchaouen: Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay

There aren’t many options for staying in Chefchaouen, but if you don’t mind a few hours in the car, the Mediterranean coastal resort of Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay is a gorgeous choice. 

This ritzy property sits on a turquoise-blue canal leading out to the bay. While the ride to Chefchaouen is pretty long, the promise of plush comforts, a sublime spa experience and picturesque views of the sea upon arrival doesn’t hurt — not to mention a wealth of watersports.

Fora Perks at Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay:

Hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

6. Essaouira: a lax beach town with a unique medina experience

With scenic beaches, fresh seafood and a surprisingly relaxed medina experience, Essaouira is a coastal gem among Moroccan cities and towns. 

Whereas most medinas in Morocco are loud, electric and eclectic, the Essaouira Medina is more laid-back. Strolling through the medina’s labyrinthian alleyways and streets, you’ll still encounter traders and artisans selling Moroccan goods and street food, but it’s not quite the overwhelming experience you would expect in Marrakech or Fes. 

If you walk along the medina’s seawall, marked by ramparts and old canons dating back to when the city was under European control, you can take in stunning views of the shoreline.

Speaking of the shoreline, Essaouira is also an excellent surfing destination for beginners, particularly during warmer months when the Atlantic trade winds reach their peak. If you happen to visit in spring or fall, though, the beaches can be a great place to enjoy a peaceful day on the sand as the crowds tend to disappear with the mild weather.

Fun fact: Marrakech’s Amanjena resort ships fresh seafood daily from Essaouira.

Where to stay in Essaouira: L'Heure Bleue

Most of the city’s hotels either border the medina or sit along the shoreline, but in either case, the city is small enough that staying near one doesn’t preclude you from the other. On that note, L'Heure Bleue is one of our favorite properties. It’s located in the heart of the city, where it used to be a luxury residence before it was converted into a boutique hotel. 

It’s also known as Heure Bleue Palais, and there are only about 30 rooms here, so there’s a bit of an exclusive vibe. Our advisors stayed here during their recent FAM trip and they especially loved the hotel’s chic rooftop pool and bar area. 

Curious about more of Morocco’s best places to visit? Ask Fora

Can’t wait to check out Morocco’s best places to visit? Have another destination in mind like the cosmopolitan city of Casablanca or the capital, Rabat?

Why not trust a travel expert to supply you with insider intel? When you plan and book your trip with a Fora Advisor , you can count on VIP perks and extras at the coolest hotels across Morocco. And these perks are completely complimentary. 

Not sure that Morocco fits your dream vacation vibe? Check out our guides to these great destinations, too:

The 18 Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica for First-Timers  

6 of the Best Places to Visit in Europe, From Lisbon to Paris  

The 5 Most Unique Places to Visit in Greece  

The Best Places to Visit in Italy: 5 Exciting Destinations  

The 12 Best Places to Visit in Spain for First-Timers

What's the Best Place to Visit in Portugal? 8 Amazing Options  

8 Wonderful, Unique Places to Visit in Japan

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Where to go on holiday in Morocco, from Marrakech to Fes

Bustling cities, surf-battered coastlines and a riot of colourful medinas await, article bookmarked.

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With the  Atlas mountains  and sections of the sprawling  Sahara desert , natural beauty dominates  Morocco ’s map. Yet it’s also the atmospheric alleys, snake-charmer squares and tiled riad s of this  north African country’s ports and towns that beg to be explored.

Infused with a blend of tradition and art, cities in this land of coastlines, festivals – religious and musical – and full-flavoured cuisine are both diverse and enchanting. And it’s not just the charms of up-and-coming capital Rabat or the palm and parasol-fringed beaches of Agadir that deserve to draw in tourists.

From the lively  Marrakech  medina to the medieval mosques of Fes and the Atlantic breeze-swept coastlines of Essaouira and Taghazout, there’s shopping, surfing and ancient crafts to be discovered.

As the country enters another sizzling spring, here are six of the best holiday hotspots and where to stay – all less than a four-hour flight from the  UK .

Read more on Morocco travel :

• The best things to do on a Morocco getaway
• The best all-inclusive Morocco holidays
• This Moroccan mountain town should be your next short break

Marrakech is a vision of dusky terracotta buildings in the shadow of the towering Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas mountains . A web of alleys, riad s and spice-scented souks lie inside the medina walls, and the vibrant atmosphere, which buzzes from dawn to dusk, doesn’t dull until you reach the palm grove oasis and luxury holiday resorts of Palmeraie to the north of the city. Enjoy a charcoal-cooked merguez sausage in the central square Jemaa el Fna, wander around the Bahia Palace, or immerse yourself in Moroccan history at the Maison de la Photographie, before relaxing with a sweet mint tea at one of the rooftop cafes or hidden gardens.

Where to stay

There’s a cool minimalism to Riad UP’s six relaxing rooms amid the medina’s splashes of colour. Complete with a patio, plunge pool and roof terrace studded with sun loungers, it’s an ideal spot to wrap up in a Berber blanket for nights spent overlooking the city.

Rooms available from {{#price}} {{price}} per night {{/price}} {{^price}} Check availability for dates and prices {{/price}}

Rates provided by Booking.com

Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing.

Morocco’s second city is a blend of influences including Arabic, Moorish, Ottoman Turkish and French. From the Mediterranean flair of Fassi cuisine to steamy private hammam s and craft workshops, including bookbinding and leather embossing, Fes fascinates with its modern edge to ancient ways of life. The city is home to the world’s largest medieval medina district – with 9,000 alleyways to meander, you’re bound to find a shop or souk to while away the hours.

Hillside on the edge of Ville Nouvelle, the contemporary Hotel Sahrai oozes luxury. Stays in neutral suites accented with stone and wood have access to an infinity pool overlooking the medina, a zen spa, and a French brasserie for seriously suave steak frites.

Surf-seekers are in for a treat if they follow the tide to Taghazout on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, just 20 minutes from the fly-and-flop resort city of Agadir. The fishing village in the foothills of the Atlas mountains is blessed with powerful point breaks, staggering swells and barrel waves off a beachfront scattered with blue wooden fishing boats. Think surf-centric hostels within the tangle of pastel houses, Brit-run camps for lessons on the board, and communal meals with your wave comrades complete with authentic plates of tagine and paprika fish.

Dar Surf  hostel hugs the swell-battered coastline of Taghazout Beach with a shared kitchen for refuelling after surf sessions and free wifi to document days on the waves. The surf camp offers rooftop yoga, home-cooked Moroccan meals, and beach bonfires for guests.

Bohemian Tangier is much more than the gateway from Europe to Africa . Though times have changed since Tangier’s louche past lit up writers, hippies and musicians, the cafe culture and people-watching posts remain. With one of the most diverse populations in Morocco, the commercial port attracts domestic weekenders to the city’s fortified kasbah walls, Roman ruins and Sixties-style boutiques. Take your spot at a storied coffeehouse or the legendary Cafe Baba to see Tangier as the Beat writers, Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger did.

For authentic, spacious rooms, a sublime rooftop terrace and delectable breakfasts punctuated with mint tea, visit  Riad Al-Qurtubi . Sat less than 2km from Tangier Beach, it is ideally situated for exploring the sands, museums and medinas of northwestern Morocco.

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city, with a Hollywood heritage, beginner-friendly waves, and bars built for nursing a cocktail. On its coast, Africa’s second-largest mosque, Hassan II Mosque, dominates the waterfront, and inland, the souks of Quartier Habous, stalls of the old medina and central market are mazes of international sweet treats, lamps, ceramics and spices. Keen to experience Casablanca as seen on screen? Head to Rick’s Cafe, inspired by the movie, for a jazzy gin cocktail at the roulette table.

Each of the 25 vibrant suites at Art Palace Suites & Spa is inspired by a celebrity or international icon, including Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin and Cleopatra. The hotel in Gauthier also has a spa pool in the basement and a tiled Moroccan hammam for a scrub-down.

On Morocco’s Atlantic coast, the windswept port city of Essaouira is a hotspot for kitesurfing, French fusion feasts, and walking the walls of the pocket-size medina. Look out for 18th-century ramparts and  thuya  wood carvings as you weave through the fragrant Unesco-listed grid of boutiques selling argan oil, carpets and leather. Stretch out on the sands of Essaouira Beach with a cup of  à la menthe –  a sugary mint cocktail – when taking a break from surfing the famed winds known in Berber as  taros .

Blanketed in technicolour Moroccan zellige tiles, Salut Maroc is in the heart of the medina, with eccentric bedrooms, freestanding copper tubs and enviable views out to the ocean from the rooftop terrace.

Want to holiday like Mick Jagger? The hedonistic, boho-luxe of 1970s Marrakech is back

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The 10 Most Exciting Cities to Visit in Morocco in 2023

Home » The 10 Most Exciting Cities to Visit in Morocco in 2023

Morocco is an exciting and vibrant country, full of culture and history. The cities of Morocco offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a place to explore the ancient sites, enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city, or relax in the sun. With 2023 on the horizon, now is the perfect time to start planning your trip to Morocco. 

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the 10 best cities to visit in Morocco in 2023.

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Table of Contents

1)  Fez, the cultural capital of Morocco – Cities to Visit in Morocco

Fez, Morocco’s oldest imperial city, is an enchanting destination where ancient traditions and culture still thrive. Located in the north of the country, Fez has been an important center of Islamic learning since the 9th century and is the most populous city in the nation.

The Medina of Fez is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was founded in the 8th century and is home to over 9,000 historic monuments, as well as mosques, madrasas, mausoleums, and more. The architecture of the city is stunning, with intricately tiled walls and wooden doors that are adorned with detailed carvings. The souks (markets) in the medina offer visitors a unique shopping experience, where they can purchase handmade crafts, spices, leather goods, and more.

Fez also has some of the best gastronomy in the country and is known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. Here you can sample local delicacies such as pastilla (savory pie) or harira (thick lentil soup). Visitors should also make sure to visit the Nejjarine Fountain to admire its beautiful Andalusian tiles, or take a walking tour of the old tanneries and watch the artisans dye leather using natural ingredients.

Fez offers visitors the chance to explore a city full of history and culture. With its impressive mosques and medinas, vibrant souks, and delicious cuisine, this destination is truly a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Morocco’s fascinating culture.

2) Ouarzazate, a getaway to the Sahara desert

When people think of Morocco, images of rolling dunes and camels often come to mind. A visit to Ouarzazate, the “gateway to the Sahara desert”, will take you one step closer to this unique experience. The city is renowned for its many kasbahs (traditional fortresses) and beautiful architecture, and its surrounding landscape provides a perfect contrast of mountains and desert. 

Take a day trip out to the stunning dunes of the Erg Chebbi, or explore the nearby Taourirt Kasbah with its winding streets and towering fortified walls. The Todgha Gorge is another breathtaking attraction in the area, featuring dramatic limestone cliffs with lush palm groves at the base. With Ouarzazate being relatively small, you can easily get around by foot or bike and explore the various attractions at your own pace. 

If you’re looking for a bit of respite after all your adventures, look no further than the local hammams (traditional steam baths). Alternatively, sample the tasty Moroccan cuisine that’s served in the cafés and restaurants all over town. While you’re in Ouarzazate, don’t forget to check out some of its renowned film studios, which have been used as locations for many international movies. 

A visit to Ouarzazate is an absolute must for anyone looking to get a taste of the Sahara desert. Its unique combination of scenery, culture, and activities makes it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.

3) The iconic Marrakech – Cities to Visit in Morocco

Marrakech is one of the most famous and visited cities in Morocco, and for good reason. It is full of colorful souks, winding alleyways, and historical monuments, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a unique cultural experience. The city is known for its vibrant energy and exciting atmosphere, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy like golfing, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning. 

When visiting Marrakech, you can’t miss the incredible Jemaa el-Fnaa square. This large public space has been around since the 11th century and is now home to musicians, dancers, and other street performers. The iconic Koutoubia Mosque and the Bahia Palace are both must-see attractions in the city. In the Medina (old city), you can explore the bustling markets and shops that offer everything from spices to carpets to handicrafts.

The nearby Ourika Valley offers breathtaking scenery as well as lots of opportunities for adventure. Here you can try out camel riding, quad biking, or even hot air ballooning over the Saharan dunes. Other nearby attractions include the Palmeraie (palm grove) which is home to thousands of palm trees and the charming Majorelle Garden where you can marvel at the exotic plants and vivid blue buildings. 

Marrakech is an incredible city that should be on every traveler’s list of destinations to visit. Whether you want to explore the history and culture of Morocco, indulge in the local cuisine, or just relax in the sun, this city has something to offer everyone.

4) Casablanca: Largest City In Morocco

Located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco. It is a vibrant city that mixes modernity with traditional culture and offers something for everyone. 

Casablanca has one of the most interesting old cities in Morocco, with buildings dating back to the colonial era, such as the iconic Hassan II Mosque, built in 1993 and considered one of the largest mosques in the world. The New Medina district is also a great place to explore, with its narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss out on a visit to Ain Diab Beach, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic.

When it comes to shopping, Casablanca’s souks are the best in Morocco. The main souks are located in the old Medina area and you’ll find everything from spices and traditional clothing to crafts and jewelry. You can also visit the modern shopping malls in the city center, where you’ll find a variety of international brands.

At night, Casablanca offers plenty of entertainment, including bars, clubs, and cinemas. You can also enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the city.

Whether you’re looking for a modern city experience or an authentic Moroccan experience, Casablanca has something for everyone. From its fascinating history to its vibrant nightlife, Casablanca is an exciting destination for any traveler.

5) Meknes, a beautiful historic city – Cities to Visit in Morocco

Meknes, located in northern Morocco, is a beautiful city steeped in history. Known as the “Imperial City”, it was once home to the Alaouite dynasty and was even the Moroccan capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. With its grand city walls and gates, as well as ancient ruins and monuments, Meknes is a fascinating place to visit.

The most famous site in Meknes is the impressive Bab Mansour gate, which was built in 1732. This magnificent gate is adorned with intricate designs and is an architectural wonder. You can also explore the historic sites of Moulay Ismail’s palace, such as the el-Hedim square, which was once used for royal ceremonies. Nearby you can visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and admire the gorgeous tiled interior and majestic gardens.

In addition to its beautiful architecture, Meknes offers many opportunities to experience traditional Moroccan culture. In the old city, you can explore the souks (markets), sample delicious street food, enjoy a cup of mint tea at a local cafe, or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes. 

More about Meknes

For an amazing view of the city, climb up to the hilltop Merenid Tombs, which dates back to the 14th century. From here you can enjoy stunning views of Meknes and its surrounding countryside. 

For those who want to experience Meknes’ cultural heritage, don’t miss out on visiting the medina. This ancient walled city is full of narrow alleyways filled with shops and cafes, making it a great place to wander around and discover hidden gems. 

No visit to Meknes would be complete without tasting the delicious local cuisine. Whether you want to try a savory tagine dish or enjoy some sweet pastries, you’ll be sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds. 

Meknes is an incredible destination that combines ancient history and vibrant culture, making it one of the best cities to visit in Morocco. So if you’re planning a trip to Morocco in 2023, don’t miss out on experiencing this amazing city!

6) Water sports in Dakhla

Water sports in Dakhla

Dakhla, situated in the southwestern corner of Morocco, is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique adventure. It’s a small oasis city in the desert, with some of the most stunning beaches in the region. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves, dive beneath the surface, or paddle across the lagoon, Dakhla has it all.

Surfing and Kitesurfing:

Dakhla is one of Morocco’s premier surfing and kitesurfing destinations. With its consistent winds and waves, it’s no wonder why many consider Dakhla a surfer’s paradise. Not only does it offer great waves and strong wind, but also breathtaking views of the desert and the Atlantic Ocean. The lagoon is perfect for beginner surfers and kitesurfers as well as more experienced riders who want to test their skills on big waves.

In addition to surfing and kitesurfing, Dakhla is also a great place for windsurfing. Its mild winds, long beaches, and warm water make it an ideal spot for beginners and experts alike. For those who want to take their windsurfing to the next level, there are plenty of spots where you can practice your maneuvers and tricks. 

Kayaking and Paddleboarding: 

If you prefer a more laidback water sport, kayaking and paddleboarding are great options. You can explore the tranquil waters of the lagoon, discovering hidden beaches and exotic wildlife. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or just looking for an easy way to relax, you’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy. 

With so much to do, Dakhla is an excellent destination for all types of water sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re into surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, or just looking for a leisurely paddle, there’s something for everyone in Dakhla. So come and explore this Moroccan gem for yourself!

7) Essaouira, a gem of the Atlantic – Cities to Visit in Morocco

Essaouira is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco and a must-see destination for any traveler. Situated on the Atlantic coast, this port city is surrounded by sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of stunning views. Its medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its distinctive white-and-blue buildings, winding alleys, and traditional atmosphere. Here, visitors can explore art galleries and craft shops, enjoy a relaxing stroll around the beach or visit one of the many cafes, bars, and restaurants.

The nearby bay offers some of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in the country, making Essaouira a paradise for those looking for some exciting water sports. Visitors can also take boat trips to discover the surrounding islands and enjoy sunbathing on their pristine beaches. As well as all these activities, Essaouira is home to many cultural attractions and monuments, from the 16th-century Portuguese fort to the old walled medina with its distinctive gates.

With its unique atmosphere, picturesque beaches, and fascinating history, Essaouira is an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Morocco. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, there’s something here to suit every traveler.

8) Chefchaouen, the blue city – Cities to Visit in Morocco

Chefchaouen

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a stunning city to explore. It is famously known as the Blue City of Morocco, due to its breathtaking blue-washed buildings and walls. The city was originally founded in the 15th century as a fortress by Spanish-Moroccan Sultan Moulay Ali Ben Moussa Ben Rached El Alami. 

The city is home to several cultural attractions, including the Kasbah Museum which houses artifacts and traditional garments from local craftsmen and women. The historic medina (old city) in Chefchaouen is full of winding streets and photogenic buildings. Stroll through the lanes and you’ll find a colorful array of shops selling everything from carpets and souvenirs to traditional cuisine and more. 

No visit to Chefchaouen would be complete without exploring one of its many outdoor activities. Hike through the nearby Rif Mountains and enjoy the beautiful scenery, or take a dip in the cascading waterfalls. You can also visit the wildlife park, which is home to an array of animals including wolves, wild boar, and ibex. 

Chefchaouen is an idyllic destination for a relaxing getaway. With its mesmerizing blue walls, bustling medina, and charming atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Chefchaouen is one of the most popular destinations in Morocco.

9) Tangier, at the crossroads of Europe and Africa – Cities to Visit in Morocco

As one of Morocco’s oldest cities, Tangier has long been a vibrant center of culture and commerce. Founded by the Phoenicians in the 5th century BC, it has played a significant role in the history of the region, and its strategic position at the intersection of Europe and Africa has made it an important port for centuries.

Today, this ancient city is just as bustling and beautiful as ever. From the grand boulevards of the medina to the stunning views from its hillside fortifications, Tangier provides a unique combination of cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring its rich history, indulging in its delicious cuisine, or enjoying its vibrant nightlife, Tangier offers something for everyone.

A visit to Tangier would be incomplete without exploring the old town. Here you can wander through the winding streets of the medina and soak up the atmosphere of one of the oldest parts of the city. From the Grand Socco to Place de France, there are plenty of interesting sights to explore, with many traditional stores selling everything from spices to ceramics.

More about Tangier

Tangier also boasts some incredible architecture, including several ancient mosques. The 17th-century Great Mosque is particularly impressive, while visitors can also explore the Kasbah Museum – one of the oldest fortresses in North Africa. Finally, make sure you take in some of the spectacular views from the hillside fortifications that were once used to defend against foreign invasions.

For those who like to explore the outdoors, Tangier has plenty to offer. Just outside the city lies Cape Malabata – a stunning stretch of coastline with spectacular views out to sea. Alternatively, nearby forests and mountains provide plenty of opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.

Overall, Tangier is a fantastic destination for both cultural exploration and outdoor activities. As one of the oldest cities in Morocco, it is steeped in history and culture, but it also offers modern amenities and plenty of fun things to do. Whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city.

10) Beach and relaxation in Agadir

The coastal city of Agadir is a great spot to relax and unwind after exploring other parts of Morocco. Agadir is home to the country’s longest beach and its many resorts, making it the perfect place for an idyllic beach getaway.

Start your days with a stroll along the wide sandy beaches, taking in the incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. Agadir also offers plenty of water sports, from surfing and sailing to kayaking and paddleboarding. In the evening, you can enjoy some delicious seafood in the numerous restaurants along the boardwalk.

No visit to Agadir is complete without visiting the Kasbah, a fort situated atop a hill overlooking the city. Here you can admire beautiful views of the sea and city below, and explore this ancient fortress. There are also many other attractions nearby such as the Royal Palace and Marche Central markets.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Agadir has something for everyone. From its stunning beaches to its many historical attractions, Agadir is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco in 2023.

Morocco is an amazing destination, with plenty of cities to explore and activities to experience. From the blue city of Chefchaouen to the vast desert in Ouarzazate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this North African country. 

No matter where you go, you’ll find wonderful experiences and stories to share with friends and family. 

Check out Framey!

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, make sure to check out Framey App for inspiration and to get the inside scoop on what each city has to offer. Framey is a great way to get inspiration from friends who have already visited and to find the best places to go. 

With the app, you can also see your friends’ holiday photos from Morocco, so you can get a taste of what’s to come. 

Don’t forget to take lots of pictures for yourself as well!

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Eclipse of the century: why to plan ahead for 2027’s total solar eclipse

• When is the next eclipse? It’s in 856 days
• Totality will go by so fast today. Here’s a checklist of what to look at
• How to check the weather for the eclipse – and make a Plan B
• How to take a photo of the eclipse with a smartphone

Your ultimate guide to the total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027

Mark your diaries. Book a hotel a couple of years in advance. Do whatever you need to … this is the big one. If you were born with itchy feet and a desire to see the best our planet has to offer, clear your travel planner for August 2, 2027.

Once word gets out about this unique event, many thousands will try to get to the Valley of the Kings near Luxor, Eqypt, to stare skyward at 12:02 p.m. local time.

At that precise moment, an astonishing 6 minutes and 20 seconds of precious  totality will begin—the moment the Moon blocks out the Sun and throws a moonshadow over the Earth.

When Is The Next Eclipse?

A travelers’s guide to total solar eclipses 2024-2034, why is it the eclipse of the century.

This one’s been on bucket lists for centuries. If you’re tempted to ask an eclipse-chaser about which is the “best” eclipse to go to, don’t bother. Just bone up on  Saros 136 , a pattern of super-long duration total solar eclipses that repeat every 18 years, 11 days. 

Saros 136 is epic in our lifetimes; the next one is on August 2, 2027. Its path of totality rips across Spain, North Africa and the Horn of Africa, but its ‘greatest point of duration’ just so happens to be a few miles from Luxor in Egypt. 

What’s more, the spectacle will happen almost directly overhead. Located beneath the cliffs on the west bank of the Nile near the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple is sure to be the epicenter of the world for a few minutes. Although the inhabitants of Mecca might have something to say about their own 5 minutes-plus of totality …  here’s a map .

Those in the “path of totality” on August 2, 2027, will experience this century’s longest remaining total solar eclipse. Although there was a longer eclipse in 2009, that was over the ocean and mostly blocked by clouds, 2027’s total solar eclipse will be the longest totality on land since 1991 and until 2114.

Where is the 2027 total solar eclipse?

On August 2, 2027, the path of totality will stretch from the Atlantic through Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Somalia.  Here’s a map .

So you do have some travel options, though there are three reasons to head to Luxor, Egypt:

• Clear skies are almost certain in North Africa (as are midday temperatures of 41°C/106°F).
• Maximum duration is 6 minutes 23 seconds just southeast of Luxor, Egypt—but only four seconds shorter in the Valley of the Kings.
• The area is a tourist hotspot (in normal times) so it has lots of hotels—if you book early.

Best viewing sites for the 2027 total solar eclipse in Egypt

Luxor, the site of ancient Thebes, is sure to reign supreme as Eclipse HQ on August 2, 2027.

The best, though busiest, place to be will almost certainly be the Valley of the Kings—an area of rock-cut tombs excavated for the pharaohs between the 16th and 11th century BC—over the Nile from Luxor.

Its symmetric architecture and beautiful location against a cliff face will likely make the  Temple of Hatshepsut  the epicenter for eclipse observing (unless the area is closed). Still, there are plenty of other places to watch from elsewhere in the valley.

There’s a walk called “Deir el Bahri” that takes you across the mountain pass between the temple and the Valley of the Kings, while the Colossi of Memnon—situated in the Theban Necropolis—are also sure to be a favorite for eclipse photographers.

Other popular locations will include the Valley of the Queens, the solar-aligned Karnak complex of temple ruins, and Luxor Temple.

However, to avoid the crowds in Luxor, it might be wise to consider Sohag, a satellite town about a four-hour drive north of Luxor, on the west bank of the Nile. It enjoys identical totality time to Luxor—6 minutes 20 seconds—and it’s close to the intriguing  Red Monastery  and  White

Best viewing sites for 2027 total solar eclipse away from Egypt

The area around Luxor is going to be mega-busy, and many will be prepared to sacrifice a slice of totality time to witness the eclipse alone. Hire a driver and you can get into the desert very easily from … anywhere in North Africa. Here are a few other places to consider:

• A sunrise totality from a cruise ship in the Atlantic.
• Cadiz, Spain: 2 minutes 51 seconds.
• Baelo Claudia , an ancient Roman town, Bolonia, Spain: 4 minutes 30 seconds.
• Tangiers, Morocco: 4 minutes 50 seconds.
• Sidi Bouhl, near Tozeur, Tunisia (featured in the original  Star Wars ): 3 minutes 8 seconds.
• Kerkennah Islands, Tunisia: 5 minutes 40 seconds.
• Mecca, Suadi Arabia: 5 minutes 8 seconds.
• A sunrise totality from a cruise ship in the Indian Ocean.

Image credit: Jarek  from  Pixabay

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The Best Places to Visit in Africa in 2024

A frica offers an incredible blend of ancient and modern, wild and urban, places to visit with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures. From the soaring sand dunes of the Namib Desert to the lush rainforests of the Congo Basin, the vast and varied continent offers a world of travel opportunities in 2024.

For adventurers seeking breathtaking natural scenery, few destinations can match the epic spectacle of the annual wildebeest migration across the Serengeti plains. City lovers will revel in the frenetic souks of Marrakesh, the thriving arts scene of Accra , and the vibrant renaissance underway in Kigali.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Africa in 2024:

South Africa

South Africa is an amazing place to visit. You can climb Table Mountain, see wild animals in Kruger National Park, or learn about the history of Robben Island. Enjoy the stunning views at Blyde River Canyon, drive along the Garden Route, or see the Drakensberg Mountains. Try going on a safari, tasting wine in Stellenbosch, or diving with sharks. Don’t forget to eat local foods like braai, bobotie, and bunny chow. 

Kenya is famous for its beautiful wildlife and natural scenery. Visit places like the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, and Lamu Island. See the Great Rift Valley, climb Mount Kenya, or relax on Diani Beach. Discover Kenya’s history along the Swahili coast and visit old sites like Fort Jesus. There are lots of exciting activities like flying in a hot air balloon, snorkeling in Watamu, or learning about Maasai culture. Try delicious Kenyan dishes like nyama choma, ugali, and samosas. There are also less-known areas to explore like the Lewa Conservancy, home to rare animals like black rhinos and Grevy’s zebras, offering a unique and cozy stay at Lewa Wilderness.

Tanzania is a top destination for anyone wanting to experience Africa’s wild beauty. You can go on safari in the Serengeti National Park,  a UNESCO World Heritage Site , which is famous for its huge annual wildlife migration. You can also see the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, or climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Don’t miss the beautiful Zanzibar Island, the vast Selous Game Reserve, or the lovely Lake Manyara. Tanzania is rich in history too, with ancient Swahili city-states and Arab influences in Zanzibar. For fun go on spice tours in Zanzibar, or enjoy scuba diving. When it comes to food, taste the local ugali, nyama choma, and pilau. 

Ghana offers a mix of historical sites, lively culture, and beautiful beaches. Visit the Osu Castle, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, and Labadi Beach. Explore the historic Cape Coast, the natural beauty of Kakum National Park, and learn about Ghana’s history, including the transatlantic slave trade. Enjoy the Afrobeat music scene, try street food tours, and browse local markets. Foods to try include jollof rice, banku and tilapia, and kelewele. Don’t miss the Independence Arch, Jamestown Lighthouse, and the National Museum of Ghana for a deep dive into Ghanaian culture and history.

Rwanda is known for its stunning natural parks and wildlife. Visit Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, and relax by Lake Kivu which offers scenic boat trips and outdoor activities. Activities include gorilla trekking, canopy walks, and cultural village visits. Explore the lush Nyungwe Forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and Akagera National Park. Try Rwandan dishes like ugali, isombe, and brochettes. Visit Nyanza to see the Royal Palace and learn local myths at Ndaba Rock. For relaxation, check out the healing natural hot springs at Amashyuza.

Morocco has some of the most beautiful gardens, historic mosques, and colorful towns in the world. Must-visit spots include Jardin Majorelle, Hassan II Mosque, and the blue city of Chefchaouen. Adventure awaits in the Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains, and the coastal town of Essaouira. Morocco’s history is rich with Arab, Berber, and European influences, evident in its ancient cities. Fun activities include camel trekking, exploring local markets (souks), and taking hot air balloon rides. Be sure to try Moroccan dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla. Morocco is not just famous for its culture; it’s also a great place for sports and crafts. You can make pottery in Marrakesh, taste wine in Meknes, or learn about Sufism.

Egypt is known for its ancient wonders. The Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the Valley of the Kings are just a few places where you can step back in time. Enjoy the beauty of the Nile River, the Red Sea, and the Siwa Oasis. Egypt’s history is fascinating, with stories of ancient civilizations, pharaohs, and hieroglyphs. Egyptian foods like koshary, molokhia, and falafel are delicious. Besides the well-known pyramids and Sphinx of Giza, explore other historical sites like the Saqqara necropolis, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. Egypt’s Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Mount Sinai are also worth a visit.

Zambia’s Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls, and the wildlife-rich Luangwa Valley, offer unforgettable natural experiences. Zambia is renowned for its walking safaris, particularly in the Luangwa Valley, where visitors can experience the wilderness up close. Adventurous travelers can go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River or explore the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for a glimpse of the mighty Victoria Falls. Zambia’s natural beauty and commitment to wildlife conservation make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.

In Zambia, the culinary journey complements the outdoor adventures. Visitors can try local dishes like nshima, a staple food made from ground maize, often served with meat or vegetable stews. Sampling local Zambian cuisine provides an authentic taste of the country’s culinary traditions.

Namibia is full of amazing natural attractions. In Etosha National Park, you can see lots of wildlife around a huge salt pan perfect for self-drive safaris, especially during the dry season from May to October, when wildlife viewing is at its best. The Skeleton Coast and Fish River Canyon are also breathtaking places to visit. Don’t miss the beautiful dunes at Sossusvlei, the charming town of Swakopmund, or the striking Spitzkoppe rocks. Namibia has a mix of German colonial history and San Bushmen culture. For fun, try sandboarding in Swakopmund, hot air ballooning over Sossusvlei, or spotting wildlife in the wild. When it comes to food, taste some local braai, biltong, and potjiekos. 

The post The Best Places to Visit in Africa in 2024 appeared first on TANTV .

What time is the 2024 total solar eclipse on April 8 in Indiana? Search your ZIP code

Today is the day for the 2024 solar eclipse .

Several cities in Indiana will see a total solar eclipse .

Here's what you need to know about which cities, partial eclipse start times, total solar eclipse times and the duration of the total eclipse:

2024 solar eclipse live blog: The total solar eclipse is happening today. What to know about weather, traffic and more

When is 2024 solar eclipse 2024 near me today

What time will the solar eclipse be visible in indiana.

Click on your location in the map to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location
• What the maximum coverage will be
• What time maximum coverage will occur
• When the eclipse ends at your location
• Chances for clear skies based on historical averages for April 8

Roughly speaking, the peak of the eclipse will happen about 1:55 p.m. CDT in Pensacola and 3:02 p.m. EDT on Miami Beach.

2024 total solar eclipse: Eclipse time is here! When is today's 2024 total solar eclipse? What's the path of totality?

Interactive map: Enter your ZIP code to see when the total solar eclipse starts, peak coverage, when it ends April 8

Can't see our graphics? Click here to reload the page.

Enter your ZIP code to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location.
• When the peak coverage will be.
• What the peak coverage will be.
• When the eclipse ends.
• How long the partial eclipse will last.
• How are you are from the path of totality.

The time-lapse graphic shows what the eclipse will look like from Indianapolis.

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Bloomington, Indiana, best viewing location Indiana

All times are local ET.

• Start: 1:49 p.m. ET
• Peak: 3:04 p.m.
• End: 3:08 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 100%
• Total solar eclipse time: 4 minutes, 2.5 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Indianapolis

• Start: 1:50 p.m. ET
• Peak: 3:06 p.m.
• End: 3:10 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 49.4 seconds

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in Carmel, Indiana

• Start: 1:50 p.m.
• End: 3:09 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 28.9 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Evansville, Indiana

All times are local CT.

• Start: 12:45 p.m.
• Peak: 2:02 p.m.
• End: 2:05 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 1.1 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Fishers, Indiana

• Start: 1:51 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 38.5 seconds

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in Terre Haute, Indiana

• Start: 1:48 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 55.7 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Muncie, Indiana

• Start: 1:52 p.m.
• Peak: 3:07 p.m.
• End: 3:13 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 46.3 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Richmond, Indiana

• End: 3:11 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 76.6%
• Total time: 3 minutes, 48.7 minutes

Indiana solar eclipse 2024 traffic: Check out Indiana traffic conditions the day of the total solar eclipse

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Noblesville, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 27.4 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Fortville, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 48.8 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Anderson, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 41.9 seconds

2024 solar eclipse weather forecast: Clouds have been spotted moving toward Indy before the eclipse. Will they block the view?

View of 2024 solar eclipse in French Lick, Indiana

• End: 3:07 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 7.1 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Greenwood, Indiana

• Peak: 3:05 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 59.5 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Columbus, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 44 seconds

Chris Sims is a digital content producer for Midwest Connect Gannett. Follow him on Twitter:  @ChrisFSims .