This past November I just had my 5th visit to Morocco and it’s as magical as ever. This time I had the opportunity to bring a group of 13 women to a country I’ve come to love. Before this I visited as a tourist and as a grad student on an assignment. Each time I explored more and more the best places to visit in Morocco.
I have now been in Morocco for over 40 days over my five visits (Dec 2013, April 2019, July 2021, October 2021, and November 2024). That’s why I’m excited to share this list with you so you can have an amazing time!
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Morocco Cities to Visit
Marrakech
Marrakech is by far the most touristy city in Morocco but with good reason! This city is warm year round and the people who live here are friendly and progressive. There’s so much to do in the Medina, the new part of the city, and the outskirts.
This is a historical city where Judaism and Islam meet and co-exist, lots of beautiful palaces, souks to do all your shopping, and food to eat your heart out. You’ll want to spend at least 3 days exploring this city.
Things to buy in Marrakech include: cosmetics like oils, soaps, natural medicine with plants, spices for food, and gold.
If you’re visiting Europe, particularly Spain, France, and the UK, there are lots of flights into Marrakech making it an easy add-on to your Euro trip. Here you’ll find some Marrakech highlights and day trips. Head here for additional tips especially if this is your first visit to Marrakech.
Marrakech highlights:
- Majorelle Garden, Berber Museum and YSL Museum
- Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and Medina Tour
- Hidden Medina Tour with local guide
- 6 hour Historical and Cultural tour
- Cooking class with local welcoming family
Marrakech day trips:
- Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight
- Desert sunset, camel ride, and dinner show
- Ouzoud waterfalls and boat trip
- Atlas mountains waterfall tour with quad biking and lunch
- Camel and quad bike ride during sunset with dinner and a show
Fes
Fes is known as the scientific and spiritual capital of Morocco by Moroccans. Scientific because it’s home to the largest and oldest university of the country. Spiritual because of the large presence of mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums that revolve around the Islamic religion.
Things to buy in Fes include: leather, copper, and clothing. Always negotiate the prices as they do tend to inflate them!
Fes is the perfect addition to any trip to Morocco. I’d recommend spending at least two days here unless you’re adding a day trip or two.
Fes highlights:
- Guided walking tour of the Medina
- Souk tour and traditional home cooking
- Cultural highlights guided tour
- Madrasa Bouanania, Tannery and University tour
- Market visit and a hands on cooking class
- Half day sightseeing tour
Fes day trips:
- Volubilis roman ruins, Mouly Idris, and Meknes
- Middle Atlas and Monkey Forest
- Blue City Magic of Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen
What can I say about Chefchaouen? It’s absolutely beautiful and although it’s a bit of a drive from wherever you decide to visit, it’s 100% worth it. The blues of the city will captivate you and give you a sense of calm and relaxation which is exactly what this color does.
The locals call it Chaouen so act like you are too by dropping the Chef. It’s pronounced “chow-en”.
I would recommend at least one night in Chaouen or up to two so you can walk at your leisure and really get to savor the slow pace of this city. It’s very safe as it’s small and tourism is the biggest industry here. Chefchaouen is really one of the best places to visit in Morocco.
In terms of shopping I’d suggest buying from the locals anything related to Chefchaouen as other cities won’t have it.
Chefchaouen highlights:
- Walking experience to Kasbah, Medina streets, and a waterfall
- Explore Chefchaouen like a local
- Hidden gems of the blue city
Chefchaouen day trips:
Essaouira
Essaouira is the coastal town that is popular amongst surfers and those looking for a hippie, bohemian sort of lifestyle. Alcohol isn’t easily found throughout the country, but it is here! Be prepared for lots of wind here.
Game of Thrones fans will recognize a few different sites around the city! Relive your favorite scenes as you walk around.
Essaouira highlights:
- Half day guided walking tour
- Surf lesson
- Half day sand dunes quad bike tour
- Historical and cultural sightseeing tour
- Cooking class
Rabat
Rabat is the capital of Morocco and located right on the water. Many people think a day or two is enough in this city but having spent over a week here, I know that the charm lies within wandering its streets, Medina, and markets.
Some of my favorite spots are the Kasbah des Oudayas, Chellah, Royal Palace, and Medina. Here are my top things to do in Rabat.
Rabat highlights:
- Guided city walking tour
- Cooking class in a family home
- Exclusive luxe private boat guided tour
- Walking food tour
- River sunset boat ride and Moroccan ride
Rabat day trips:
Casablanca
Casablanca is the economical capital of Morocco and sometimes mistaken as the actual capital. I’ll be honest in saying there isn’t too much to see. I’ve never spent more than two days here and even then filling the time can be harder than expected.
The main attraction is the Hassan II Mosque. It’s unique because it’s right on the coast next to the Atlantic Ocean. While you’re there, check out the Medina and Rick’s Cafe which was created after the movie Casablanca became so popular.
Casablanca highlights:
- Hassan II Mosque
- City tour with Hassan II Mosque entry ticket
- Spa and private Hammam package
- Full day city exploration with hotel pickup
- Private guided tour with lunch
- Traditional souks private shopping tour
- Night tour with street food tasting
Casablanca day trips:
Related Posts
- What to Eat in Morocco
- Things to do in Rabat
- Visiting Marrakech for the First Time
- Marrakech Airport to City Center
Don’t forget to bookmark this page to visit some of the best places to visit in Morocco. I hope it helps you plan an amazing trip! Let me know if you end up visiting any of these cities in the comments.
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