Morocco, a country of breathtaking contrasts, offers an unforgettable travel experience. From the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert to the untouched coastline, Morocco’s natural beauty is as diverse as it is awe-inspiring. As we explored the Best Places to Visit in Morocco, we discovered that each destination felt like entering a new realm. The blue-hued houses of Chefchaouen, the labyrinthine medina of Fes, and the majestic mountains all contributed to an unforgettable journey. We’ve curated a comprehensive guide to help you navigate Morocco’s cities and hidden gems, ensuring that your trip is nothing short of extraordinary.
Discovering Morocco’s Diverse Landscapes and Rich Culture
From the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the sun-kissed Sahara Desert, Morocco’s diverse landscapes are as breathtaking as they are varied. Our six-week journey through this incredible country was one of our favorite backpacking experiences, and yet, every day we spent in Morocco only made us feel like we’d seen less and less of the country.
We arrived in Chefchaouen expecting it to be one of our final stops before taking the ferry from Tangier to Spain, but we ended up backtracking and visiting half a dozen more places before finally arriving in Tangier. This experience taught us that Morocco presents an incredible diversity of landscapes within a relatively compact country, where you can journey from sun-drenched beaches to golden sand dunes in a single day.
The cultural tapestry of Morocco weaves together Berber, Arab, and French influences, creating a unique way of life that’s evident in everything from the architecture to the cuisine. We’ve found that Morocco’s cities each have their own distinct character—Marrakech pulses with energy, Chefchaouen soothes with its blue-washed streets, and Fes preserves medieval traditions in its ancient medina.
Beyond the urban centers, Morocco’s countryside reveals a slower pace of life, where traditional farming methods and nomadic lifestyles continue much as they have for centuries. One Morocco experience that consistently amazes visitors is the warm hospitality of locals, who often invite travelers to share mint tea and conversation, offering genuine insights into Moroccan culture.
As we reflect on our time in Morocco, it’s clear that the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Marrakech or relaxing on the beaches of Essaouira, visit Morocco is an experience that will leave you with lifelong memories of this incredible country and its people.
Marrakech: The Vibrant Red City
Stepping into Marrakech is like entering a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and aromas that define the heart of Morocco’s vibrant cultural landscape. This captivating city is a must-visit destination when you visit Morocco, offering an unforgettable experience that blends traditional and modern charm.
Must-See Attractions in Marrakech
Marrakech is home to numerous iconic places that showcase its rich history and culture. At the heart of the city is Djemaa el-Fna square, a UNESCO World Heritage site that transforms from a tranquil morning meeting place to a bustling night market filled with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine medina, discovering hidden riads, artisan workshops, and the sensory overload of spice markets that have operated for centuries.
For a peaceful retreat from the medina’s energy, visit the stunning Jardin Majorelle, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, or the opulent Bahia Palace with its intricate tilework and tranquil courtyards.
Where to Stay and Eat in Marrakech
Marrakech offers a range of enchanting accommodations, from luxurious riads like Dar Attajmil to boutique hotels that blend traditional charm with modern amenities. When it comes to dining, the city is a gastronomic paradise, with international chefs from around the world offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. Enjoy cozy candlelit dinners at one of the many top-rated restaurants, or savor local flavors at traditional eateries.
Best Time to Visit Marrakech
The best time to visit Marrakech is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant for exploring the city on foot without the intense summer heat. These periods offer ideal conditions for experiencing the city’s vibrant culture and one best attractions.
Marrakech, often called the Red City for its rose-hued buildings, is one best city in Morocco, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary life, making it an unforgettable destination.
Chefchaouen: Morocco’s Enchanting Blue Pearl
Tucked away in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a treasure trove of blue hues and breathtaking landscapes. This enchanting town has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique Moroccan experience. We find that Chefchaouen’s relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Exploring the Blue Medina
As you wander through the narrow streets of Chefchaouen’s medina, you’ll be struck by the distinctive blue-washed buildings that give the town its nickname. The blue medina is a photographer’s dream, with its charming plazas, azure walls, and doorways that seem to transport you to another world. We recommend taking your time to explore the medina, getting lost in its winding streets, and discovering the local artisans and cafes.
Hiking Opportunities Around Chefchaouen
For the more adventurous, the surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities, with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints and the Spanish Mosque. The views from these vantage points are simply breathtaking, especially during sunset when the sky is painted with hues of orange and pink. We find that hiking in Chefchaouen is a great way to experience the town’s natural beauty and relax in a serene environment.
Where to Stay in Chefchaouen
When it comes to accommodations, we recommend staying in a traditional riad within the medina, such as Riad Hicham. These charming houses offer authentic Moroccan hospitality and are often just steps away from the main plaza. You’ll feel like you’re experiencing the real Chefchaouen, with its unique blend of traditional and relaxed vibes.
Fes: Step Back in Time in the Medieval Medina
Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city, is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and cultural experiences waiting to be explored. As we wander through the world’s largest car-free urban area, we’re transported back in time with its 9,000+ alleys and historic monuments.
Navigating the Ancient Medina of Fes
Navigating the ancient medina of Fes is both challenging and rewarding. We recommend hiring a local guide for your first day to help orient yourself before venturing out independently to discover hidden corners.
As we explore the medina, we’re surrounded by vibrant carpets and handicrafts that contrast with the peeling pastels of its old buildings. The sensory experience is overwhelming, yet exhilarating.
Cultural Experiences in Fes
The city is renowned for its cultural significance as a center of craftsmanship, where we can witness artisans practicing centuries-old techniques in pottery, leatherwork, and metalsmithing.
One of the most fascinating cultural experiences in Fes is visiting the tanneries, where leather has been dyed using natural pigments and traditional methods since medieval times. This unique experience offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Day Trips from Fes
From Fes, we can take excellent day trips to nearby historical sites like the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes, both offering insights into different periods of Morocco’s rich history.
These day trips provide a broader understanding of Morocco’s diverse cultural heritage and historical landmarks, making Fes an ideal base for exploration.
Essaouira: The Charming Coastal Getaway
With its picturesque medina, beautiful beach, and consistent trade winds, Essaouira is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Morocco. This relaxed city has an oceanfront location with a sandy beach, watersport centers, a working fishing port, and a noisy fish market for fresh-off-the-boat seafood.
Beach Activities and Water Sports
The city’s windswept beaches are a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with consistent trade winds creating ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing throughout most of the year.
Exploring the Historic Medina
At its historic heart is a pedestrianized medina, with vendors selling ceramics and traditional riads to sleep in. Exploring the historic medina, protected by 18th-century seafront ramparts, reveals a more laid-back shopping experience than in other cities in Morocco.
Food and Nightlife in Essaouira
Essaouira’s vibrant food scene is centered around the bustling port where you can select fresh-caught seafood and have it grilled to perfection at nearby food stalls. As night falls, the city transforms with a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, offering everything from traditional music performances to contemporary bars where you can enjoy a sunset drink overlooking the Atlantic.
Essaouira offers the perfect balance of beach relaxation and cultural exploration, making it one best places to visit in Morocco. We find that the combination of its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene makes Essaouira a truly unforgettable destination.
The Sahara Desert: Unforgettable Desert Experiences
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the Sahara Desert, where majestic sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. In the eastern part of Morocco, you’ll find Merzouga and Erg Chebbi, home to some of the largest sand dunes in the country. The drive to the Sahara is long, but when you arrive on the edge of the world’s largest hot desert, the pavement stops and the sand begins – an endless ocean of dunes ahead.
Whether you continue by 4WD or camel deeper into the desert, the emptiness of the Sahara is a supremely rare experience. Visiting the Moroccan Sahara is a choice to disconnect and simply enjoy being in the middle of nowhere. This stark and barren environment comes to life with a good guide, especially at night when the sky, free of light pollution, fills with stars.
Camel Trekking and Desert Camps
The Sahara Desert experience is often described by our travelers as the most magical part of their Morocco journey, where the vast golden dunes create landscapes that feel otherworldly. Camel trekking across the rippling sand dunes of Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga offers a traditional way to experience the desert, culminating in an overnight stay at a Berber camp beneath the stars.
Best Time to Visit the Sahara
We’ve found that the best time to visit the Sahara Desert is during spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when daytime temperatures are pleasant and nights are cool but not freezing. This makes for an ideal desert adventure, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of the desert without the harsh conditions of the peak summer months.
What to Pack for a Desert Adventure
For your desert adventure, we recommend packing layers (desert temperatures fluctuate dramatically), a headscarf for protection from sand, closed shoes, sunscreen, and a camera with extra batteries to capture the stunning dunes at sunset. Being prepared will ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the Sahara.
As night falls, the desert comes alive – the temperature drops, and the sky reveals a spectacular canopy of stars, an astronomical display you’ve likely never experienced before. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with lifelong memories of the Sahara Desert.
Casablanca: Morocco’s Modern Metropolis
Casablanca, with its rich history and modern architecture, offers a different side of Morocco that many travelers miss. As Morocco’s largest city, it’s a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary elements.
The Magnificent Hassan II Mosque
The crown jewel of Casablanca is undoubtedly the Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece that stands majestically over the Atlantic Ocean. It’s one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors, making it a must-visit attraction. The mosque is not only one of the largest in the world but also a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and engineering.
Urban Experiences in Casablanca
Beyond the mosque, Casablanca offers a variety of things to see and do. We recommend exploring the city’s Art Deco architecture in the city center, browsing the upscale boutiques of the Maarif district, and experiencing the local food scene at the Central Market. For those interested in Moroccan art and culture, the Villa des Arts and the Museum of Moroccan Judaism offer fascinating insights into the country’s diverse heritage.
Day Trips from Casablanca
Casablanca serves as an excellent base for day trips to nearby attractions. Consider visiting the capital city of Rabat, with its rich history and cultural landmarks, or the Portuguese-influenced coastal town of El Jadida, featuring a UNESCO-listed cistern. These trips offer a glimpse into Morocco’s diverse cultural and historical tapestry, making Casablanca one of the one best bases for exploring the region.
In conclusion, Casablanca is a city that represents a modern, cosmopolitan side of Morocco, contrasting with the traditional elements found elsewhere in the country. It’s among the top cities to visit for those looking to experience the full spectrum of Moroccan culture and urban life.
Tangier: Gateway Between Continents
With its unique geographical location at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, Tangier offers travelers a rich cultural experience, blending African and European influences. This fascinating blend is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and the languages spoken on its streets.
Historical Sites and Cultural Attractions
Tangier is home to numerous historical sites, including the Kasbah Museum, housed in the former Sultan’s palace, and the American Legation, the first American public property outside the United States. These sites reflect the city’s rich history and cultural significance.
The Vibrant Medina and Cafés
We recommend exploring Tangier’s compact medina, where whitewashed buildings house traditional craft shops. Afterwards, relax at the legendary Café Hafa, perched on cliffs overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Day Trips from Tangier
From Tangier, you can take rewarding day trips to the pristine beaches of Cap Spartel, the mythical Caves of Hercules, or the picturesque blue and white town of Asilah, just 45 minutes down the coast. These excursions offer a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
In conclusion, Tangier is a captivating city in city Morocco that offers a unique blend of cultures, history, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Morocco.
Rabat: The Underrated Capital City
Our journey to Rabat revealed a city that seamlessly balances history and contemporary life. As Morocco’s capital, Rabat offers a more relaxed way to experience urban life, with wide palm-lined boulevards, clean beaches, and a manageable medina that’s perfect for unhurried exploration.
Historical Sites
The city’s most impressive historical site is the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V complex, where an unfinished 12th-century minaret stands alongside the ornate tomb of the country’s beloved king. This site is a must-visit when in Rabat, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Gardens and Beaches
Rabat is also home to picturesque spots like the Oudaya Kasbah, a blue and white neighborhood perched above the Atlantic. Here, you can wander quiet lanes and enjoy traditional mint tea and pastries at Café Maure.
Cultural Experiences
A day trip from Rabat should include a visit to the ancient Roman ruins of Chellah, where Roman and Islamic civilizations overlap. This site is now inhabited by storks nesting atop ancient columns, creating a unique cultural experience.
Rabat balances its historical treasures with modern amenities, making it one of the most livable places in Morocco. It’s an excellent destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences without overwhelming crowds, making it a great addition to any Morocco itinerary.
Aït Benhaddou: Morocco’s Famous Fortified Village
The ancient village of Aït Benhaddou rises dramatically from the desert landscape, a true marvel of Morocco. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its perfectly preserved fortified village, or ksar, which has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Exploring the Ancient Ksar
Aït Benhaddou stands as one of Morocco’s most spectacular sights—a perfectly preserved fortified village that rises dramatically from the desert landscape like a mirage from another time. Visitors can explore the narrow alleys and admire the traditional pre-Saharan habitat.
Movie History and Cultural Significance
This historic site has been the backdrop for numerous films and TV shows, including “Gladiator,” “Lawrence of Arabia,” and “Game of Thrones.” Film enthusiasts will recognize Aït Benhaddou as one of the world’s most cinematic real-life places.
Tips for Visiting Aït Benhaddou
We recommend visiting early in the morning or late afternoon when the changing light bathes the ancient mud-brick structures in a golden glow, creating perfect conditions for photography. While many travelers visit Aït Benhaddou as a day trip from Marrakech or Ouarzazate, spending a night in one of the small guesthouses allows you to experience the village after the tour groups leave.
Best Places to Visit in Morocco: Planning Your Perfect Itinerary
From the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, Morocco’s varied landscapes and cultural heritage create a traveler’s paradise. With so many incredible destinations, planning your trip can be a challenge.
We recommend allowing at least 10-14 days to experience Morocco’s highlights, including the imperial cities, Atlas Mountains, and a taste of Sahara Desert life. For first-time visitors, a classic itinerary might include Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, a desert excursion to the Sahara, and Marrakech, with day trips to places like the Roman ruins of Volubilis or the village of Aït Benhaddou.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, dedicating time to hiking in the Atlas Mountains is a must, where traditional Berber villages offer spectacular views. Beach lovers can design a coastal itinerary along the Atlantic, starting in Tangier and making their way south through Asilah, Rabat, and Essaouira. Consider the time of year when planning your visit—spring brings wildflowers to the Atlas Mountains, while fall offers perfect temperatures for desert exploration.
To make the most of your trip, balance iconic sights with authentic cultural experiences, such as sharing tea with local people or spending a night in a family home in a remote village. With careful planning, your Moroccan journey will be an unforgettable experience.
