Morocco is a country of sensations. Colour and aromas pervade the labyrinthine streets of its Medinas and souks, and the architecture of its mosques will leave you speechless. The country is a perfect destination both for a weekend getaway and for a long trip, as there are many cities of great historical and cultural interest to see in Morocco.
In this post we talk about the cities to include in your travel itinerary and many other natural destinations of tourist interest such as the beaches or the desert, among others. We also tell you the best way to get around the country and give you other travel tips that will help you during your stay. Read on to find out what things to do on a trip to Morocco.
What cities to see when you travel to Morocco?
1. Marrakech, one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Morocco
At the foot of the Atlas Mountains, we find one of the most special and important cities in Morocco: Marrakech, a unique and vibrant city with much to see and do.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Jemaa el-Fna Square is the first stop in Marrakesh. This square is the nerve centre of the city: everything revolves around it. Here you will find a wide variety of stalls selling local products, where you can buy the best souvenirs of Marrakech. And in case you didn’t, don’t worry, this beautiful city is full of souks or marketplaces, which flood the streets with colourful carpets, lamps and ceramic plates. The most important souk is called Laksour and is located in the Medina. You can also see the main mosque, the Koutoubia, from the Jemaa el-Fna Square. Although it is forbidden for non-Muslims to enter, we recommend that you go there and walk along its palm-lined promenade, even if you don’t practise this religion.
If you want to learn more about beautiful Marrakech, read on in Things to do and see in Marrakech Morocco
2. Visit Casablanca when you travel to Morocco
Casablanca is not just a film city. With almost 5 million inhabitants, Casablanca is the economic capital of Morocco and one of the most modern cities in Africa. But don’t be fooled, the city still retains its charm and a style all of its own, combining Arab heritage with colonial influence, as it was a former French protectorate.
The Clock Tower, designed by the French captain Dessigny in 1911 and rebuilt in 1993, is probably the most characteristic place in the city and the must-see photo for tourists. It is located at the entrance to the Medina, in United Nations Square
Another place you should not miss when you travel to Morocco is the Hassan II Mosque, as it is a unique experience, literally. This mosque, along with the Timnel Mosque, is the only one open to non-followers, so if you travel to Casablanca, you can’t miss the opportunity to see a Muslim temple from the inside.
The Corniche Boulevard is Casablanca’s seafront promenade and a must-visit area if you’re going to the city. It’s the street where you’ll find the most exclusive hotels and shops. At the end of the promenade is the Morocco Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Africa.
Casablanca is a city full of interesting places. See them all in Things to do in Casablanca Morocco
3. Fez
Fez is one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, as well as being the third largest and one of the most visited. This wonderful North African city, considered by Moroccans to be the cultural and religious centre of the country, is one of the most beautiful you will see in Morocco.
The Medina of Fez, like all other Moroccan cities, is a place as beautiful as it is chaotic, worth wandering through its narrow streets and exploring the true essence of Morocco and its day-to-day life. It is home to the Al-Karaouine Mosque, built in 859, which is also the oldest university in the world. There you can also cross the impressive tiled Bab Bou Jeloud gate.
The Medina is also home to one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods you will see in Fez and in all of Morocco, the Mellah, the Jewish quarter, as well as the beautiful madrasas of Al Attarine and Bou Inania.
Discover beautiful Fez in detail in Fez travel: Things to do and see
4. Visit Volubilis during your holidays in Morocco
The ancient Roman city of Volubilis is an hour’s drive from Fez. Volubilis is home to an archaeological site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. In this Roman city you can see the remains of a triumphal arch, a 2nd-century basilica and a temple to Jupiter Capitolinus, among other ruins, which has not been fully excavated.
5. Visit Rabat, the Capital of Morocco
At the shore of the Atlantic Sea and at the mouth of the Bu Regreg river, we find the majestic capital of Morocco: Rabat.
You can experience the essence of the capital and its people in the Medina. It’s a must-visit spot and where the life of the city takes place. Unlike other cities in the country, it doesn’t have such a touristy atmosphere, so getting lost in its streets and being enchanted by the contrast of colours and aromas is a real delight. The Avenue Mohammed V is the main street of the Medina, one of the busiest in the capital and a great place to enjoy its leisure activities.
One of the areas that contrasts with the more traditional parts of Rabat is La Ville Nouvelle, built by the French during the time of the protectorate in the early 20th century. The Ville Nouvelle is home to some of the capital’s most important buildings, such as the seat of Parliament and the Bank of Morocco.
But these are just some of the many sights to see in Morocco’s capital, including the imposing Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Gold Souk, among others.
Learn about these places in depth at Things to do in Rabat Morocco
6. Essaouira
Essaouira, formerly Mogador, is a city in western Morocco, 190 kilometres from Marrakech. This beautiful port city, unlike hectic Casablanca and Marrakech, is a respite for the tourist already accustomed to the hustle and bustle of these two huge cities.
The Medina of Essaouira is a real delight. Its conglomerate streets, pure Moroccan essence, range from the white of the buildings and the blue of the sea, to a whole range of intense colours of its souks, full of handicrafts such as carpets and ceramics.
Here we find the Port Skala, Essaouira’s largest and most visited monument. It is a bastion built around 1500 that served to protect the city from pirates and enemies. The Skala today offers one of the best views of the city, the city walls and the island of Mogador.
And, of course, in a port city, a visit to the Port and Fish Market is a must. Its port is one of the most lively places in Essaouira, where you can get to know the purest essence of the city. The main activity of the port is fishing. Which is why next to it is the Fish Market, one of the best places to eat in Essaouira. Here, they not only sell but also cook freshly caught fish. Go to one of the market’s many crowded stalls and choose the fish you want to eat yourself. It’s a delicious experience.
Further discover Essaouira, its streets and its beaches in Things to do and see in Essaouira Morocco
7. Chefchaouen, an essential place to see when you travel to Morocco
Many people know Chefchaouen as the “blue pearl of Morocco” and its completely blue streets have become famous all over the world. This picturesque place in the Rif Mountains, forbidden to non-Muslims until the 1920s, is one of the most beautiful and curious villages you’ll see around Tetouan.
Lose yourself in the blue streets of its Medina and discover its pretty little shops full of colourful decorative items, the best possible souvenirs from Morocco, which stand out against the sky-blue background. Another must-see in Chefchaouen is the square of Outa El Hamman, where the Kasbah is located.
8. Tangier
In North Africa, located in the Strait of Gibraltar, we can enjoy the city of Tangier. If there is something peculiar about Tangier, it is its old town, Kasbah. Its network of narrow streets with those characteristic blue and white colours make it a magical place. Here, moreover, within a walled enclosure, is the Museum of the Kasbah, located in the former Governor’s Palace.
In addition to its historic centre, monuments and souks, Tangier is famous for its beautiful beaches. An example of this are the beaches of Markala and the Strait. They are small beaches ideal for diving and snorkelling in a spectacular natural environment.
To continue discovering this wonderful city, we recommend you to visit Things to do in Tangier Morocco
9. Don’t forget about Tetouan in your trip to Morocco
Tetouan, also known as “the White Dove”, is a beautiful city in northern Morocco, located on the slopes of the Rif. White houses, narrow streets lined with markets and craft stalls, colourful arched doorways and geometrically patterned tiles are just some things you’ll see and enjoy in this wonderful Moroccan city.
Its Medina is a white labyrinth that you’ll enjoy wandering through. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, it’s a real beauty. Here you can visit the souks where you can find everything from street food stalls, poultry shops, fishmongers, to small decoration and leather goods shops.
Another must-see neighbourhood in Tetouan is El Ensanche, built during the Spanish Protectorate in Morocco. The main street of El Ensanche is Mohamed V. It runs through important sights such as the Hassan II Square. Other places worth seeing in Tetouan’s Ensanche are the Mulay Mehdi Square, the Museum of Contemporary Art, housed in a former train station, and the Archaeological Museum, which consists of a beautiful Andalusian courtyard.
Learn more about Tetouan in Things to do in Tetouan Morocco
10. Discover Agadir when you travel to Morocco
In the south from Rabat, we find ourselves in Agadir, the capital of the Sus-Masa region. It’s an obligatory stop on our journey along the Moroccan coast. On the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, this fishing town hides more than just a tourist destination. It’s worth visiting because of its beautiful beaches and comforting sunshine.
As it could not be otherwise, since it is its main attraction, Agadir has a splendid beach where the weather is unbeatable practically all year round. We recommend that, as well as bathing in its waters and relaxing in the sun, you should take a stroll along its promenade, Corniche La Cote.
Another point of interest in such a lively city as Agadir is the El Had souk. This huge, bustling market is one of the biggest you’ll see in Morocco and the perfect place to find all kinds of souvenirs.
Find out more about Agadir in Things to do in Agadir Morocco
11. Asilah, a town in the north of Morocco
Asilah is a very small and picturesque town in northern Morocco with some Portuguese and Spanish influence. Its beauty lies in its whitewashed houses and irregular grid of streets on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.
It is a very small town that can easily be visited in a morning. Although, many holidaymakers decide to stay a few days longer to enjoy the beach and the beauty of its whitewashed streets decorated with colourful murals.
Learn more about Asilah in Things to do in Asilah Morocco
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What are the best excursions and natural sites to do in Morocco?
1. Excursion to the Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert is one of the country’s biggest attractions and one of the first images that comes to mind when the word “Morocco” is mentioned. For this reason, many travellers choose to make excursions to the desert from Marrakech.
The experience is unparalleled: touring the Atlas Mountains, running through immense sand dunes, getting to know a culture very different from that of the big cities, contemplating the starry sky, listening to the silence… Once there you can also ride camels, quad bikes and jeeps.
There are many companies that offer the service of taking you to the desert and guiding you through it, showing you all its charms. As we said, most excursions start from Marrakech and usually last 3 days. But there are also longer and more comprehensive tours. The price of the most complete 5-day excursions is around €300 per person, including transfers to and from Marrakech, and nights in a hotel or in a tent in the desert. The 3-day tour costs €150.
2. Ouzoud Waterfalls, a natural spectacle to see in Morocco
150 km from Marrakech is one of the most impressive places you will see in Morocco and in the world. We are talking about the Ouzoud Waterfalls, the highest in the country with a height of 110 metres. Visiting them is one of the best experiences you’ll have on your trip to Morocco. Especially in summer, when bathing is allowed. After a few days of sweltering heat in Marrakech or in the desert, the waterfalls seem like a real oasis.
As with the desert, most excursions depart from Marrakech. They usually take about 10 hours in total and cost around €30 per person.
How to get around Morocco?
For travelling from one city to another in Morocco, public transport works very well. There are good train connections between cities, as well as buses, all at an affordable price.
It is worth mentioning an inconvenience in the buses. In some cities they do not leave at the scheduled time, or that they do not even have fixed schedules. They wait until the bus is full to start, something that can sometimes delay your plans. Be patient.
Another common way to travel around Morocco, even for long intercity journeys, is by chauffeur-driven car. It’s a private taxi where you agree the price with the driver before the journey or even hire it for days at a time. This is especially convenient for trips of several people to share the costs. The price can be the same or almost the same as the train or bus, with greater convenience.
If you decide to travel on your own or in a rental car, you’ll need a GPS, as it’s easy to get lost on Moroccan roads if you don’t speak Arabic. Road signs are in Arabic and you’ll need constant guidance. If you’re travelling in your own car, remember to contact your insurance company to extend your insurance to Morocco and get the necessary accreditation.
Is it dangerous to travel to Morocco?
It is not dangerous to travel to Morocco. It is a safe country for tourism, where, as long as you use common sense (as in any destination), there is no reason to think that anything bad can happen. Both public transport and taxis are reliable and safe to use.
Scams are common in cities. It’s not uncommon to be approached by fake guides offering you a tour of the city or trying to show you a handicraft workshop. Just avoid them.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also lists some risk areas to avoid: military zones (which are forbidden to photograph), unmarked desert areas, the Algerian border. Apart from these and other medium-risk areas, the main concern when travelling in Morocco is pickpocketing in the busiest areas, as in any other tourist destination. For more information, we recommend you visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Tips for your trip to Morocco
- The currency in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (1 MAD = 0.096€)
- Carry cash, not all shops have credit card facilities.
- Bring your money in advance, currency exchanges at airports are very expensive.
- The dirham is a restricted currency, so you should exchange it before leaving the country.
- If you decide to see Morocco in summer, always carry water, a hat or cap, sunglasses and sunscreen. Avoid going out during the hottest hours.
- Always drink bottled water and don’t put ice cubes in your drink.
- Bargaining is almost institutional in Morocco, so don’t be afraid to always negotiate for the best price.
- A large part of the population speaks French in Morocco.
- Be prepared for medical emergencies: travel with insurance.
- Wear light, but discreet clothing, preferably long and loose-fitting, and warm clothes for the evening.
How to organise your trip to Morocco?
Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.
- Get inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
- Create your own itinerary and add the app’s suggestions to it.
- Add the stops that interest you most, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat. You can use the points of interest listed in this post as a reference.
- Organise your itinerary by places according to their location on the map. You can take inspiration from the routes we present in the post.
- Check the travel budget that the app calculates according to your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
- Make the modifications you need, and you’ll be all set for your trip.
- Share your experience. Upload photos of the places you’ve visited on your trip to the app. Recommend other travellers what to see in Morocco.
If you have any doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.
Frequently asked questions about Morocco
This is perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions, but also one of the most difficult to answer. It all depends on your tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer the coast or the desert, a more touristy big city or a smaller town? That said, if we had to choose just one, we don’t think we would be wrong in saying Marrakech. It is probably the most representative city and, without a doubt, the one that receives the most visitors, as well as being one of the largest cities in Morocco and with the most places to see. Therefore, if you want to visit Morocco, you can’t go wrong travelling to Marrakech, although all the cities we talk about in this post are worth a visit.
We recommend avoiding summer because of the high temperatures, but the rest of the year is perfect as the temperature is mild and there is not much rainfall.
Although Moroccan food is tasty and rich in spices, the truth is that it is not very varied, and you will eat practically the same dishes wherever you go. We’re talking couscous, tajine, pastella, grilled fish and mint tea.
The country’s main cities are well-connected by plane, train and bus, and organised excursions are constantly departing from them to help you get to points of interest in the surrounding area.
Expect overland travel to be very cheap, but also very slow and take longer than expected.
Although tap water is safe to drink in most cities, it’s best to drink bottled water to avoid getting sick, which is not uncommon if you’re not used to it.
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