Outlining the spectacular Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Morocco is a beautiful North African country that is distinguished by its European, Berber, and Arabian cultural influences. Snow-topped mighty massifs of the Rif and the Atlas spike from its backcountry. You simply cannot miss exploring exquisite riads (traditional Moroccan homes) and historic kasbahs. The 12th-century royal fort Kasbah of Udayas in the capital city Rabat overlooks the stunning water. Marrakesh, a famous Moroccan city, is home to gardens, palaces, and mosques. Amazing spice bazaars present in Fez to numerous fascinating souks of Marrakesh encourage tourists to have a wonderful shopping experience. Foodies can’t resist sampling spicy foods packed with dried fruits and cinnamon and having mint teas. Adventure enthusiasts love snow-skiing in the enchanting High Atlas and kitesurfing on the Atlantic shore. As for the stay, you can book your stay in one of the famous luxury hotels. After learning how incredible Morocco is, you may long to explore this enchanting country, won’t you? Keep reading to learn about some of the best places to visit in Morocco to enrich your travel experience.
Event to look out for
- Music lovers should not miss the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music held annually in May or June to get a chance to listen to artists from around the world.
Travel advisory
- Trains, coach tours, and rental cars are the popular modes of transport to travel within the country.
1. Chefchaouen
Adorned by blue-washed buildings, Chefchaouen is a mesmerizing city in the breathtaking Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco. Weaving and leather workshops outline its cobbled steep lanes. You can find the red-walled, 15th-century Kasbah in Place Outa el Hammam’s main square. If you like to learn more about the history of the place you’re exploring, do not miss visiting Chefchouen Ethnographic Museum when exploring this marvelous city. In the vicinity, you will find the towering octagonal minaret of the Great Mosque. Plan an excursion to the spectacular mountains of the Rif or on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. Sample scrumptious Moroccan cuisines and shop beautiful souvenirs.
Good to know:
- Located at the tip of Chefchaouen medina, Ras El Maa is renowned for its natural spring and offers a peaceful break from the chaos of the main city. This place is frequented by locals who wash their clothes in the cool water. It's also a haven for nature lovers who can embark on various trails to the surrounding mountains.
Stay here:
Budget: Hotel Alkhalifa
2. Ouarzazate (from USD 55.49)
Gateway to the magnificent Sahara Desert, Ouarzazate is a Moroccan city located in the south of the High Atlas Mountains. It is home to Taourirt Kasbah, which houses a 19th-century palace, and offers you spectacular views of the rugged local landscape. Heading to the northwest of this city, you will find Aït Ben Haddou, a fortified red-earth city that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you visit rocky Todra Gorge in the northeast.
Good to know:
- Ouarzazate has been featured in several movies, including the action-packed The Mummy and Gladiator, which has earned it the moniker, "Hollywood of Morocco."
Stay here:
From Marrakesh: Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou Day Tour
Duration: 1.0 day
3. Essaouira (from USD 20.0)
Spend a pleasant day in the port city of Essaouira during your excursion in Morocco. You will find this seaside community and resort on the Atlantic shore of the country. The 18th-century waterfront ramparts, known as the Skala de la Kasbah, safeguard its medina (old town). Tour through the colorful bazaars and a center which features seafood restaurants and open-air cafes. If you are fond of thrilling water activities, do not miss enjoying the fun of surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing at the crescent beach. As an explorer, I am always thrilled to try new activities and would love to try these water sports when I visit here.
Good to know:
Built in the 18th century, The Medina of Essaouira is a remarkable example of a fusion of European and African architecture, a French-style fortress, and European street planning. Previously known as Mogador, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For more information, check out the city page.
Stay here:
Budget: Dar El Paco
Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech
Duration: 10 hours
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4. Meknes (from USD 30.0)
Famous for its imperial past and home to remnants such as Bab Mansour, Meknes is an amazing city situated in northern Morocco. Bab Mansour is a large gate, adorned with mosaic tiling and arches, and it leads to the former imperial city. You will find spectacular courtyards and fountains in the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Explore the charming Medina of Meknes. In the vicinity of this city, you will find Volubilis, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known for its ancient Roman-Berber ruins. I feel this attraction is a must-visit for history buffs.
Good to know:
Ville Nouvelle (New Town) is the modern part of Meknes characterized by wide boulevards and European-style architecture. Built during the French colonial period, it features parklands, residences, and hotels.
Visit the city page to get more details on this place.
Stay here:
Budget: Riad Yamcha
Small-Group Full-Day Meknes and Volubilis Tour from Fez
Duration: 8 hours
5. Rabat (from USD 85.62)
Resting on the shores of the pleasant Bouregreg River and the spectacular Atlantic Ocean, Rabat is well-known as the capital of Morocco. It is popular for having landmarks that signify its Islamic & French-colonial heritage. Make sure you visit the Kasbah of the Udayas. Adorned by the formal French-designed beautiful gardens, this Berber-era grand fort overlooks the ocean. Do not miss visiting Rabat’s iconic Hassan Tower, which is a 12th-century minaret towering above a mosque’s ruins.
Good to know:
Founded in 2014, the Mohamed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is the first national museum in the country showcasing modern and contemporary art. The permanent displays feature a wide collection of artists from the 1950s.
Check out the city page for more details on this place.
Stay here:
Luxury: The View Rabat
Budget: Riad Meftaha
Rabat: Full-Day Trip from Casablanca
Duration: 6.0 hour
6. Tinghir
Tinghir is a charming Moroccan town which is famous for its magnificent palm-groove and marvelous Todra Gorge. As you explore this town, visit various souks (markets), several old Kasbahs (fortresses), and old Ksar (castles). Make sure you do not miss visiting the mosque Ikelane and green orchards. As you tour through Tinghir, you will come across the extensive palm grove and the pottery of El Hart n’Iaamine. I love exploring new things and would love to visit this place and learn about the art of pottery. The Oasis Museum here is worth visiting and it enables you to understand the traditions of this region. Complete your excursion by exploring the popular Todra Gorge.
Good to know:
- Be sure to explore the beautiful Todra Gorge where you'll be enchanted with its picturesque canyons and scenery. You can rent a cab from Tinghir to visit the gorge, but be sure to inform them about the hotel you're staying at as the drop point to avoid being overcharged.
Stay here:
7. Asilah (from USD 81.0)
Plan to visit Asilah, a lovely coastal city on the Atlantic shore, during your sabbatical in Morocco. Well-maintained 15th-century ramparts and gates enclose its medina and old town. The medina of Asilah is famous as an art hub, and you can find several eye-catching murals here. The medina is also known for The Cultural Moussem of Asilah, a well-known annual festival. I feel this is an unmissable event for art enthusiasts where you can admire the whitewashed walls of the medina transformed into an open-air gallery. Do not miss buying beautiful souvenirs from here. Explore the pristine beaches which adorn this Moroccon city. Learn about the historic architecture and local culture of the city as you tour through it.
Good to know:
- One of the popular places to visit in the medina is the Raisuli Palace, also known as El Kamra Tower. Built in 1909 by the pirate Moulay Ahmed al-Raisuli, this building showcases the splendor of his life during his power.
Stay here:
Asilah Guided Day Tour from Tangier
Duration: 6 hours
8. Agadir (from USD 15.45)
In the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, Agadir is one of the most spectacular cities in Morocco which you should certainly explore. This resort destination is widely popular for its wide beautiful crescent beach, coastal promenade dotted with restaurants and cafes, and golf courses. Gaze at breathtaking scenic views of the marina from the Kasbah. If you are a history buff, learn about the ancient history of this region. Enjoy a wonderful shopping experience at a local souk.
Good to know:
- Amazigh Heritage Museum is one of the popular cultural attractions in Agadir to explore the art and culture of the Berber people. Here, you can view over 200 handcrafted pieces, traditional silver jewelry from the Souss Massa region, and wooden doors.
Stay here:
Luxury: Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay Resort
Budget: HOTEL KAMAL CITY CENTER
From Agadir or Port : City Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 3.5 hour
9. Casablanca (from USD 91.93)
Casablanca is a prominent coastal city and a busy commercial hub, found in western Morocco, that greets numerous tourists and professionals every year. You can observe Casablanca’s French colonial legacy in its impressive downtown Mauresque architecture, which is an artistic blend of European art deco and Moorish style. The magnificent Hassan II Mosque, which stands partly above the water, is a prominent landmark in the city. Its 210-meter (688.97-foot) minaret is topped with lasers pointing at Mecca. With so many beautiful attractions, I feel Casablanca is an ideal destination for art and architecture lovers.
Good to know:
- Trams, buses, and taxis are the popular modes of transportation to explore the attractions in Casablanca. You will need to buy a prepaid card for trams, and buses cost 5 MAD irrespective of the stops. There are two taxi types: white Grand taxis follow fixed routes and prices, while red petite taxis can be shared by up to four passengers.
Stay here:
Private Half-Day Guided Tour of Casablanca
Duration: 4.0 hour
10. Marrakech (from USD 20.0)
Your trip to Morocco won’t be complete without visiting Marrakech, a beautiful city and a major economic center. Marrakech is home to beautiful gardens where avid travelers like me can unwind peacefully and document their travel experiences. Here, you’ll also find majestic palaces and mosques. Make sure you visit the medina and shop for traditional textiles, jewelry, and pottery. The 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque’s Moorish minaret is known as the symbol of this city, and you can view it even when you are miles away. Have a great time exploring this amazing Moroccan city.
Good to know:
- Gueliz (Ville Nouvelle) is the modern neighborhood of Marrakech characterized by wide boulevards, contemporary vibes, and high-end amenities. Popular attractions you can visit here are the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, Carré Eden shopping center, Jardin Majorelle, and more.
Stay here:
Luxury: Tigmiza Boutique Hotel & Spa
Budget: Riad Hôtel Belleville Marrakech
Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech
Duration: 10 hours
11. Sidi Ifni
Located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean in southwest Morocco, Sidi Ifni is a wonderful Moroccan city that you should not miss exploring when here. The locals of this city have painted it blue and white, and you can see the peculiar color blend in their robes and turbans. Fishing is known to be the economic base of this beautiful city. In my opinion, this city is ideal for water enthusiasts. The shores outlining the city are ideal for surfing, so you enjoy surfing on the swells of the Atlantic waves. Do not miss clicking your photos with the eye-catching backdrop at the Legzira beach.
Good to know:
- Sidi Ifni is known for its unique Art Deco architecture, distinguishing it from other Moroccan cities. Here, you'll find colorful buildings adorned with geometric patterns and designs, reminding you of its Spanish colonial heritage.
Stay here:
12. Merzouga
Plan an excursion to Merzouga, a small town in the Sahara Desert, when vacationing in Morocco. It is famous for being a gateway to a vast expanse of mounds of sand called Erg Chebbi. Gaze at the incredible dunes of sand. Heading to the west of this fascinating town, you will find Dayet Srji, a popular salt-lake that turns dry in the summer. When this lake is full of water, it receives a variety of desert and migratory birds, including Egyptian nightjars, desert warblers, and, at times, flamingos.
Good to know:
Merzouga is home to several desert animals such as fennec fox, desert hedgehog, jerboa, and several species of birds. Travelers can get a glimpse of these creatures during one of their desert excursions.
You can check out Merzouga Desert if you want to indulge in some fun activities.
Stay here:
13. El Jadida
A charming port city adorning the Atlantic shore of Morocco, El Jadida is a great place to explore and learn about its history. It’s situated 100 kilometers (62.13 miles) in the south of Casablanca. Watch the great bulwarks which jut up from the ocean. Learn about the unique history of this colony of Portuguese. Have a refreshing mint tea at the seaside promenade and feel the breeze. Your trip to El Jadida won’t be complete without visiting beaches, as they are the prime reason for greeting tourists during the weekends in the summer.
Good to know:
- The historic center of El Jadida, which includes the Portuguese-built fortifications, the cistern, and the Church of the Assumption, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 16th-century cistern, also known as "La Citerne Portugaise" is a popular tourist attraction here.
Stay here:
Luxury: Riad Dar El Malaika
14. Tangier (from USD 175.0)
An enchanting Moroccan port sitting on the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is famous for being a strategic gateway between two continents, namely Europe and Africa. Tour through its splendid white-washed, hillside medina, where you can find Dar el Makhzen, an outstanding palace of sultan which is now a worth-seeing museum of Moroccan artifacts. Also, visit the American Legation Museum, which is known to document early diplomatic relations between Morocco and the USA. Have a wonderful time cruising over the Strait of Gibraltar and watching sweeping views of the ocean. In my opinion, this city is ideal for photographers where you can capture the city in action!
Good to know:
- The Kasbah of Tangier, one of the oldest districts in the city, is renowned for its narrow alleys, traditional Moroccan architecture, and popular landmarks, offering a glimpse into its rich history. Rue d’Italie and Rue de la Kasbah will help you uncover the secrets of this place through its craft workshops and restaurants.
Stay here:
Tangier, Morocco Day Trip from Costa del Sol
Duration: 15 hours
15. Fez (from USD 14.14)
Popular as the cultural capital of Morocco, Fez is a vibrant city that every traveler to Morocco should visit. It is primarily famous for its Fes El Bali walled medina graced by exquisite Marinid architecture, bustling souks, and old-world atmosphere. Explore medina’s intricate maze of streets. If you are fond of wooden art, make sure you visit the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts in Morocco. Besides these, Fez is home to religious schools, which include 14th-century Bou Inania and Al Attarine.
Good to know:
- The medina of Fes el-Bali, reminiscent of the 1930s due to the absence of cars, is the world's largest car-free urban area by population. Its narrow, labyrinthine streets make driving impossible. Hiring a local guide on your first day is recommended to navigate the streets and see the prominent sights.
Stay here:
Luxury: Le Grand Alcazar - Riad
Budget: Dar Amir Fez
Fez Medina Guided Tour
Duration: 4.0 to 6.0 hour
16. Al Hoceima
Sitting on the Mediterranean coast and the northern edge of the breathtaking Rif Mountains, Al Hoceima is a worth-visiting city in Morocco. This Riffian city is a charming place that is graced by shimmering beaches and golden sandy shore. Soak up in the sun above the shore and bask in its glory. Gaze at the spectacular grassy cliffs, carved gorges, marvelous seaside mountains, and other scenic natural attractions in the Moroccan paradise. Spend a relaxing time having a cup of tea at tea houses.
Good to know:
- Two of the spectacular beaches in Al Hoceima spectacular beaches are Playa Quemado and Tala Youssef Beach, visited by locals and tourists who're looking for relaxation and engaging in fun water activities.
Stay here:
17. Taroudant
Visit Taroudant, an incredible red-walled city that’s located in the Sous Valley. This enchanting city is also famous as ‘Grandmother of Marrakesh’, as it appears similar to a smaller Marrakesh along with its outlining ramparts. It is well-preserved within its spectacular ochre ramparts. Stroll on the medina’s labyrinthine alleyways. Do not miss visiting the souks to shop for pottery, terracotta, rugs and carpets, jewelry, wrought iron, and many other items. As an explorer, I am always curious to lean about the area’s specialty and would love to explore the markets here to check out these products. Also, get some souvenirs for your loved ones back home.
Good to know:
- The region around Taroudant is known for its Argan oil production and visitors can tour the local cooperatives and learn about the traditional methods to extract it.
Stay here:
Budget: Dar Les Dattiers
18. Ifrane (from USD 136.0)
Do not miss visiting Ifrane when touring Morocco. This mesmerizing town in the Middle Atlas Mountains is famous for the ski slopes and forests that are in the vicinity. So, if you are longing to ski, Ifrane is the best tourist hotspot in Morocco to explore. You are sure to admire the alpine-style architecture of this town. Another well-known landmark of Ifrane is a lion’s stone statue near Parc la Prairie. To the west of this amazing town, you will find Ifrane National Park which is home to the rare Barbary macaques and is blessed by Atlas cedar forests.
Good to know:
- Ifrane houses the Al Akhawayn University, a famous English-language university founded in 1995, attracting students from all over the world who are interested in the American liberal arts education model.
Stay here:
Luxury: Michlifen Resort & Golf
Budget: Motel Ain Mersa
Fes to Ifrane Private Day Tour
Duration: 10 to 12 hours
19. High Atlas (from USD 802.0)
High Atlas, also famous as the Grand Atlas, is an incredible mountain range adorning central Morocco. It is the highest mountain range in North Africa and includes Jbel Toubkal. High Atlas is popular as a trekker’s paradise right from spring through to pleasant autumn. So, if you love trekking, do not miss exploring this jaw-dropping mountain range by going on a trekking excursion here. Enjoy hiking from Imlil Valley and have a savory lunch in Armed Village.
Good to know:
- Located in the High Atlas, the Toubkal National Park was built in 1942 to preserve the flora and fauna of this region. Inside the park, you'll find an alpine lake, leopards, macaques, and other animals.
Stay here:
High Atlas Mountain Private Guided Day Tour from Marrakech
Duration: 9 hours
Must-visit attractions in Morocco
20. Oukaimeden (18 USD for skiing equipment per day & 11 USD for life pass)
Are you fond of skiing? If yes, make sure you visit Oukaimeden, a ski resort located in the Atlas Mountains close to Jebel Toubkal. Experience the fun of skiing about 2,600 meters (8530.18 feet) above the dusty landscape of the Sahara Desert, at Oukaimeden. It’s famous as the highest ski resort in entire Africa. As you tour through this region, you will find a series of drag lifts, five individual runs, rental facilities, and a ski school. Put on your ski equipment and glide on the snowy landscape as you view breathtaking vistas.
Good to know:
- You cannot miss the open-air petroglyph site at the entrance of Oukaimeden. It features carved illustrations of pastoral life and beautiful geometric patterns, first discovered by researchers in 1949. You can ask the locals or tour guides for small metal stakes indicating the most important carvings.
Stay here:
Oukaimeden
Website: Oukaimeden
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 18 USD for skiing equipment per day & 11 USD for life pass
21. Jebel Toubkal (192 USD per person for two days)
If you are a trekker or mountain climber, you should not miss visiting Jebel Toubkal when holidaying in Morocco. Mount Toubkal is a 4167-meter (13671.26-foot) towering mountain peak situated in the Toubkal National Park in southwestern Morocco. It is famous as the highest peak in North Africa, the Atlas Mountains, and the Arab World. Take time out of your hectic travel schedule and enjoy trekking to the soaring peak of this breathtaking mountain. Capture jaw-dropping views from the summit, using your camera.
As an explorer, I am always excited to try new adventures and if you’re like me, you can plan to hike and reach the zenith of Jebel Toubkal.
Good to know:
- It takes only two days to ascend Mount Toubkal, and if you're planning to hike it, be sure to layer yourself with moisture-absorbing clothing that you can easily add or remove.
Stay here:
Jebel Toubkal
Address: Jebel Toubkal, Morocco (see map)
Website: Jebel Toubkal
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 192 USD per person for two days
Have a memorable travel experience in North Africa
Morocco is a mesmerizing country that’s full of beautiful attractions, impressive architecture, pleasant nature, and outstanding heritage and culture. Touring through this country is sure to enhance your travel experience. Apart from the attractions, it also features cozy vacation rentals and beach resorts. So, think no further, head out to this North African paradise in the coming holidays, and explore all these places to visit in Morocco.
Taghazout
Contributed by Content Creator, Bree Sand
Source: Bree Sand
As much as I love the hustle and bustle of a lively city, I’ve definitely come to appreciate the laid-back atmosphere of smaller villages. Instead of staying in Agadir, we stayed about 30 minutes north in a village called Taghazout. And it was absolutely worth it! Life was so easygoing as we could get everywhere on foot and didn’t have to worry about crowds of people.
History
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