Morocco is an incredible country, rich in diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and ancient history. From bustling imperial cities to serene desert dunes and stunning coastlines, it offers a truly unique travel experience. This essential travel guide will take you through 10 of the best places to visit in Morocco, helping you plan an amazing trip filled with unforgettable moments.
1. Marrakesh: The Red City of Romance and Souqs
Marrakesh, often called the “Red City,” is a vibrant and enchanting destination that captures the heart of Morocco. It’s best known for its bustling medina, intricate souqs (markets), and a magical atmosphere that blends ancient traditions with a lively modern pulse. From the moment you step into its labyrinthine alleys, you’ll be immersed in a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and aromas. Marrakesh is also a gastronomic city, offering everything from street food delights in Djemaa el-Fna to luxury dining in exquisite riads.
Best Places:
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: The vibrant heart of Marrakesh, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site. It transforms from a relatively calm space by day into a bustling open-air theatre by night with storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and food stalls.
Marrakesh Medina: The historic old city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a maze of narrow streets filled with diverse souqs (like Souk Semmarine, Souk Cherratine, Souk Teinturiers) offering everything from leather goods and textiles to spices and pottery.
Bahia Palace: An exquisite 19th-century palace considered a masterpiece of Moroccan and Islamic architecture, known for its intricate designs, beautiful courtyards, and lush gardens.
Jardin Majorelle (Majorelle Garden): A serene botanical garden with vibrant blue buildings, exotic plants, and tranquil water features. It was famously owned and restored by Yves Saint Laurent and houses a museum dedicated to Berber artistry.
Koutoubia Mosque: Marrakesh’s most iconic landmark with its 77-meter-tall minaret, visible from miles around. While non-Muslims cannot enter, its exterior and surrounding gardens are beautiful.
Ben Youssef Madrasa: A stunning 14th-century Islamic school, showcasing exquisite Moroccan-Andalusian architecture, intricate mosaics, and carved cedar wood.
El Badi Palace: The sprawling ruins of a 16th-century palace, once a symbol of immense wealth and power, now offers an atmospheric glimpse into Marrakesh’s past.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May): Considered the best time with comfortable temperatures (20°C to 30°C), low rainfall, and blooming gardens. Ideal for outdoor exploration.
Autumn (September-November): Also excellent, with pleasant temperatures (18°C to 28°C), clear skies, and fewer crowds after the summer heat. October is particularly recommended.
Winter (December-February): Mild days (around 18°C) but cooler nights, with a higher chance of rain. Good for exploring cities without extreme heat.
Summer (June-August): Very hot (can exceed 35°C), but early mornings and late afternoons are still options. Coastal areas are cooler.
Things to Do:
Immerse yourself in the sensory overload of Jemaa el-Fnaa, especially at sunset and evening.
Get lost (and found!) in the Marrakesh Medina, haggling for souvenirs in its vibrant souqs.
Admire the stunning architecture and gardens of Bahia Palace and Jardin Majorelle.
Visit the historic Ben Youssef Madrasa.
Experience a traditional Moroccan hammam for relaxation.
Enjoy panoramic views and mint tea from a rooftop café overlooking the city.
Take a horse and carriage ride (calèche) around the city.
Explore the history at Saadian Tombs or the Marrakesh Museum.
Consider day trips to the Agafay Desert for a camel ride or glamping, or to the Ourika Valley and Ouzoud Waterfalls.
Learn Moroccan cuisine with a cooking class.
2. Aït Ben Haddou: A Hollywood-Famous Fortified Village
Aït Ben Haddou is an extraordinary 11th-century fortified village (ksar) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located majestically on a hillside near Ouarzazate. This impressive mud-brick architecture has captivated filmmakers for decades, earning it the nickname “Ouallywood” due to its appearances in blockbuster movies like “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” Exploring its ancient alleys and kasbahs feels like stepping back in time, offering a profound glimpse into traditional Moroccan life and stunning desert vistas.
Best Places:
The Ksar (Fortified Village): Wander through the winding, narrow paths, explore the mud-brick houses, and climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding palm groves and desert.
The Granary at the Summit: The highest point of the ksar, offering the best vantage point for photography.
Ouarzazate (nearby): Often combined with Aït Ben Haddou, this city is home to the Atlas Film Studios, where many famous movies were filmed, and the Taourirt Kasbah.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): Ideal times to visit with pleasant temperatures, making it comfortable to explore the ksar and surrounding areas.
Winter (December-February): Mild days, but can be chilly at night. Fewer crowds.
Summer (June-August): Can be extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended if traveling during this period.
Things to Do:
Explore the intricate architecture of the ksar and imagine its ancient life.
Climb to the summit of the ksar for breathtaking panoramic views.
Visit the Atlas Film Studios in nearby Ouarzazate.
Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the village.
Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal at a local restaurant overlooking the ksar.
Experience a desert tour or camel ride in the surrounding areas.
3. Taghazout Bay: Morocco’s Chill Surfing Paradise
Taghazout Bay, located along Morocco’s Atlantic coast just north of Agadir, is a laid-back fishing village that has blossomed into a renowned surfing hub and a tranquil wellness destination. It’s the perfect escape for those seeking chill beach vibes, consistent waves, and a relaxed atmosphere. Beyond surfing, Taghazout offers beautiful sandy beaches, yoga retreats, and a growing number of boutique hotels and luxury resorts.
Best Places:
Taghazout Beach: A long stretch of golden sand, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and watching the surf.
Anchor Point, Killer Point, Hash Point, Panoramas: Famous surf breaks that attract surfers of all levels from around the world.
Paradise Valley: A scenic oasis in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, known for its natural pools, waterfalls (seasonal), and palm groves, perfect for a day trip.
Taghazout Skatepark: A popular spot for local and visiting skateboarders, contributing to the village’s youthful and energetic vibe.
North Laine & Village Center: Explore the village’s rustic streets, surf shops, yoga studios, and diverse eateries.
Best Time to Visit:
Surf Season (September-April): Best for experienced surfers due to consistent swells. November and December are particularly popular for waves.
Year-Round Mild Climate: Taghazout enjoys warm temperatures (averaging 26°C) and little rain, making it a great destination for winter sun seekers (December-February often sees 20°C+ days).
Beach & Relaxation (May-August): Good for sunbathing and enjoying the laid-back vibe, though waves might be smaller for experienced surfers.
Things to Do:
Go surfing or take a surf lesson at one of the many surf schools.
Practice yoga on the beach or at a dedicated studio.
Take a day trip to Paradise Valley for swimming in natural pools and hiking.
Enjoy a relaxing camel or horse ride along the beach, especially at sunset.
Explore the vibrant street art and murals around the village.
Indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants or enjoy international cuisine.
Try sandboarding on nearby dunes.
Visit a traditional hammam for a rejuvenating experience.
Take a quad bike adventure through the surrounding pre-Saharan landscapes.
4. Anti-Atlas Mountains: Rugged Beauty and Berber Culture
The Anti-Atlas Mountains offer a hidden gem for adventurers and nature lovers, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean towards the edge of the Sahara Desert. This less-traveled mountain range is characterized by dramatic pink granite rock formations, deep gorges, and lush oases, dotted with ancient Berber villages where age-old traditions still thrive. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures, tranquility, and an authentic connection with the Imazighen (Berber) people.
Best Places:
Tafraoute: A picturesque village retreat nestled amidst dramatic rock formations, famous for its unique pink granite boulders and surrounding almond trees.
Ameln Valley: A beautiful valley at the foot of Jebel Lkest, featuring a collection of traditional Berber villages and scenic landscapes.
Jebel Sirwa and Jebel Lkest: Prominent peaks popular for trekking, offering challenging climbs and rewarding vistas.
Painted Rocks (Aoumerkt Rocks): A unique outdoor art installation near Tafraoute where Belgian artist Jean Verame painted boulders in vibrant colors.
Tata: An outpost town on the far side of the Anti-Atlas, offering a sense of being truly “away from it all” and a useful base for deeper exploration.
Oasis de Tiout: A beautiful palm oasis offering a serene escape and a glimpse into rural life, often accessible for day trips.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring.
Winter (December-February): Ideal for exploring the Anti-Atlas as it generally avoids heavy snow, providing sunny days and cold nights, a good escape from colder European winters.
Summer (June-August): Can be hot, but typically more comfortable than the lowlands.
Things to Do:
Go hiking or trekking through the rugged landscapes and traditional villages.
Explore the unique rock formations around Tafraoute, including the Painted Rocks and “Napoleon’s Hat.”
Experience local life by visiting a traditional Berber home or a weekly souk (market).
Enjoy mountain biking on winding trails through valleys and rock formations.
Take a 4×4 excursion to explore remote areas and hidden oases.
Discover ancient rock engravings in areas like Tazekka.
Consider a mule ride for a gentle way to explore the mountain paths.
Visit local argan oil cooperatives to learn about traditional production.
5. Sahara Desert: The Ultimate Escape and Stargazing Haven
The Sahara Desert in Morocco offers an awe-inspiring experience of vast, undulating sand dunes, stark beauty, and incredible solitude. It’s the ultimate destination for getting away from it all, disconnecting from crowds, and immersing yourself in a landscape that feels infinite. The Moroccan Sahara is primarily accessed through the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga, or the wilder Erg Chigaga dunes near M’hamid. A night under the clear, unpolluted desert sky, witnessing countless stars, is a truly magical experience.
Best Places:
Erg Chebbi Dunes (Merzouga): The most accessible and popular sand dunes, known for their towering height (up to 150m) and reddish hues, offering a classic desert experience with various luxury camps.
Erg Chigaga Dunes (M’hamid): A more remote and wilder desert experience, requiring 4×4 access, offering a deeper sense of solitude and vastness.
Merzouga & M’hamid: Gateway towns to the respective dune areas, offering accommodation and tour starting points.
Ouarzazate: Often called the “Door of the Desert,” a city on the route to the Sahara, known for kasbahs and film studios.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): These are generally the best times, offering pleasant daytime temperatures (20°C-30°C in spring, 25°C-30°C in autumn) and cooler, comfortable nights for camping and activities.
Winter (December-February): Mild days (18°C-24°C) but nights can be very cold (dropping to 5°C or even freezing). Good for cultural tours and fewer crowds.
Summer (June-August): Extremely hot (can exceed 45°C), making daytime activities challenging. It’s generally advised to avoid this period.
Things to Do:
Embark on a traditional camel trek across the dunes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Spend a night (or more) in a desert camp (from traditional to luxury glamping) under the stars.
Go sandboarding down the majestic dunes.
Experience thrilling 4×4 (dune bashing) tours across the desert landscape.
Enjoy unparalleled stargazing in the clear, light-pollution-free night sky.
Learn about Berber nomadic life and culture from local guides.
Taste traditional Moroccan meals prepared at your desert camp.
Capture stunning photographs of the ever-changing dunes and magical light.
6. Essaouira: The Breezy Coastal Retreat
Essaouira is a relaxed and picturesque coastal city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, distinct from the bustling imperial cities. Its charming, whitewashed medina (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is fortified by impressive ramparts and bastions, offering stunning views of the ocean. Known for its strong winds, Essaouira is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing. It also boasts a vibrant arts scene, a bustling fishing port with iconic blue boats, and a laid-back bohemian vibe.
Best Places:
Essaouira Medina: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with distinctive blue and white buildings, narrow streets, and unique shops, easy to navigate.
Skala de la Ville & Skala du Port: Impressive 18th-century ramparts and bastions offering panoramic views of the Atlantic, cannons, and the fishing port. Famous as a “Game of Thrones” filming location.
Essaouira Fishing Port: A lively and atmospheric working port filled with traditional blue fishing boats, where you can watch the daily catch arrive and even buy fresh seafood.
Moulay Hassan Square: The main square, a lively hub with cafes, street performers, and often local musicians.
Essaouira Beach: A long, sandy beach popular for walks, horse/camel rides, and watersports.
Mellah (Old Jewish Quarter): A quieter, historic part of the medina with narrow alleys and old synagogues, reflecting the city’s multicultural past.
Best Time to Visit:
Summer (June-August): Popular and busiest, with warm temperatures and long days, ideal for beach activities and watersports. The Gnaoua World Music Festival typically takes place in June.
Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-October): Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and still great for coastal activities.
Winter (November-March): Mild but windy, good for keen windsurfers and kitesurfers. Quieter for exploring the medina.
Things to Do:
Walk the historic city ramparts (Skala de la Ville) and enjoy the ocean views.
Explore the maze-like medina, browse artisan shops, and discover hidden courtyards.
Visit the bustling fishing port and watch the fishermen at work.
Try kitesurfing or windsurfing (lessons available).
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch right at the port.
Take a cooking class to learn Moroccan cuisine.
Experience a traditional hammam.
Go horse riding or camel trekking along Essaouira Beach.
Catch a magnificent sunset from the ramparts or a rooftop bar.
7. Fez: Morocco’s Ancient Imperial and Spiritual Heart
Fez (Fes), the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities, is often considered the country’s cultural and spiritual capital. Its UNESCO-listed medina, Fes el-Bali, is one of the world’s largest and most intricate walled cities, a living labyrinth of narrow alleys, vibrant souqs, and historic madrasas. Stepping into Fez feels like traveling back in time, where traditional craftsmanship thrives and ancient traditions continue to shape daily life.
Best Places:
Fes el-Bali (Fez Medina): The ancient walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 9,000 narrow alleys, teeming with shops, mosques, and historic buildings.
Chouara Tannery: The largest and oldest tannery in Fez, operating since the 11th century, famous for its vibrant dyeing pits and traditional leather processing (view from surrounding leather shops with mint to offset the smell).
Al-Attarine Madrasa: A stunning 14th-century Islamic college, known for its exquisite Marinid architecture, intricate mosaic tiles, and carved cedar wood.
Bou Inania Madrasa: A grand 14th-century religious school and mosque, one of the few religious sites in Fez accessible to non-Muslims, showcasing magnificent craftsmanship.
Kairaouine Mosque and University: Founded in 859 AD, recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. While non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, its exterior and library are architecturally significant.
Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate): The ornate main western entrance to the Fez Medina, famous for its blue tiles on the outside and green on the inside.
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts: Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century fondouk (caravanserai), showcasing traditional Moroccan woodworking.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October): These shoulder seasons offer the most pleasant temperatures and clear skies, ideal for exploring the medina without the extreme heat or cold.
Winter (December-February): Cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and better deals on accommodation.
Summer (June-August): Can be very hot, making daytime exploration less comfortable.
Things to Do:
Get lost in the maze of Fes el-Bali and discover its hidden gems.
Visit the Chouara Tannery to observe the traditional leather dyeing process (prepare for the smell!).
Explore the intricate architecture of the Bou Inania Madrasa and Al-Attarine Madrasa.
Experience a traditional Moroccan cooking class, starting with a visit to a local souk.
Take a street food tour to sample local Fassi delicacies like msemen, harsha, and various soups.
Walk around the exterior of the Kairaouine Mosque and University.
Admire the Royal Palace gates from the outside.
Visit the Marinid Tombs for panoramic views of the city at sunset.
Explore the artisan quarters and watch craftsmen at work (pottery, ceramics, coppersmiths).
8. Tangier: The White City Where Continents Meet
Tangier, often called the “White City,” holds a unique strategic position at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. This bustling port city has a long history as an international hub, attracting artists, writers, and diplomats, giving it a cosmopolitan and intriguing character. From its historic Kasbah and vibrant medina to its scenic viewpoints and lively cafe culture, Tangier offers a blend of Moroccan charm and European influence.
Best Places:
Tangier Medina: A labyrinth of whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and small souqs, offering a more relaxed experience than Marrakesh or Fez.
Kasbah (fortified citadel): The oldest and highest part of the city, home to the former Sultan’s Palace (now the Museum of Mediterranean Cultures) and offering sweeping views of the city and Strait of Gibraltar.
Café Hafa: A legendary cliffside café dating back to 1921, famous for its tiered terraces, mint tea, and stunning views over the Mediterranean, frequented by artists and writers.
Grand Socco (Place du Grand 9 Avril 1947): The city’s main square and a vibrant hub connecting the old medina with the new city, with cafes, markets, and the Cinema Rif.
Petit Socco: A smaller, more intimate square in the heart of the medina, lined with atmospheric cafes.
American Legation Museum: The first American public property outside the United States, gifted by Morocco, now a museum and cultural center showcasing US-Moroccan diplomatic history.
Cap Spartel: The dramatic headland where the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea officially meet, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Caves of Hercules (Grotte d’Hercule): Famous natural sea caves near Cap Spartel, with an entrance shaped like the map of Africa and mythological connections.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November): Offer mild temperatures and generally fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the city.
Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny, good for beach activities, but the city can be busy.
Winter (December-February): Mild, but can be rainy.
Things to Do:
Explore the historic Kasbah and visit the Museum of Mediterranean Cultures.
Sip mint tea at the iconic Café Hafa while enjoying panoramic sea views.
Wander through the lively markets and squares of the Grand Socco and Petit Socco.
Get lost in the charming, whitewashed alleys of the Tangier Medina.
Visit the American Legation Museum to delve into diplomatic history.
Take a day trip to Cap Spartel and the mysterious Caves of Hercules.
Stroll along the Tangier Beach promenade or go camel riding on the beach.
Discover art at the Museum of Contemporary Art or Villa Harris.
Enjoy the city’s cafe culture at historic spots like Gran Café de Paris.
9. Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl of the Rif Mountains
Chefchaouen, often called the “Blue Pearl,” is a stunning mountain town nestled in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco. Its most distinctive feature is its striking blue-washed buildings, creating a surreal and incredibly photogenic labyrinth of winding alleys, staircases, and hidden squares. This peaceful and artistic town offers a more relaxed pace than the imperial cities, attracting visitors with its unique charm, fresh mountain air, and opportunities for outdoor adventure in the surrounding natural landscapes.
Best Places:
Chefchaouen Medina: The main attraction, a vibrant maze of blue-painted streets, shops, and houses, perfect for wandering and photography.
Place Outa el Hammam: The bustling main square in the medina, home to cafes, restaurants, the Kasbah, and the Grand Mosque.
Kasbah Museum: A restored 15th-century fortress in the main square, housing an ethnographic museum, a lovely garden, and a tower with panoramic views of the blue city.
Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen: Located in Place Outa el Hammam, notable for its unique octagonal minaret (exterior viewing only).
Spanish Mosque (Bouzaafar): A mosque on a hillside overlooking the city, a popular spot for an easy hike, especially at sunset, offering breathtaking views of Chefchaouen below.
Ras el-Maa Waterfall: A natural spring just beyond the medina’s northeastern gate, where locals traditionally wash clothes and visitors can relax by the flowing water.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November): These shoulder seasons offer the most pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and lower humidity, ideal for exploring the city and hiking.
Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny, but can be crowded. Good for swimming in Akchour’s pools.
Winter (December-February): Can be cold and sometimes wet, but the blue city retains its charm and is quieter.
Things to Do:
Get lost (and take countless photos) in the iconic blue streets of the medina.
Hike up to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic sunset views over Chefchaouen.
Relax and people-watch at a cafe in Place Outa el Hammam.
Explore the Kasbah Museum and its gardens.
Go shopping for unique local handicrafts, including wool products and traditional clothing.
Take a day trip to Akchour Waterfalls and God’s Bridge in the Rif Mountains for hiking and swimming in natural pools.
Enjoy authentic Moroccan mountain cuisine in local restaurants.
10. Meknes & Volubilis: Imperial Grandeur and Roman History
Meknes, another of Morocco’s imperial cities, offers a more laid-back and authentic experience compared to its bustling counterparts like Marrakesh and Fez. Once the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, it boasts monumental gates, vast granaries, and impressive architecture that speak of its former grandeur. Just a short drive away lies Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the remarkably preserved ruins of an ancient Roman city, offering a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s diverse historical layers.
Best Places:
Bab Mansour El Aleuj: Considered one of Morocco’s most magnificent gates, this monumental 18th-century archway is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, marking the entrance to the Imperial City.
Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: The ornate and historically significant tomb of Sultan Moulay Ismail, featuring beautiful tilework and courtyards (access to the tomb chamber is usually for Muslims only, but other areas are open to visitors).
Heri es-Souani (Royal Granaries and Stables): A vast complex of impressive vaulted structures that once stored grain and housed 12,000 royal horses, showcasing remarkable engineering.
Place el-Hedim: The main square of Meknes, located opposite Bab Mansour, a lively hub similar to Marrakesh’s Djemaa el-Fna but on a smaller scale, with street performers and cafes.
Medina of Meknes: A UNESCO World Heritage site, smaller and less overwhelming than Fez’s, but still a vibrant maze of souks selling traditional crafts.
Volubilis (Roman Ruins): A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring extensive and well-preserved Roman mosaics, triumphal arches, basilicas, and the remnants of a once-thriving Roman city.
Moulay Idriss Zerhoun: A holy town built into the hillside near Volubilis, the burial place of Moulay Idriss I (the founder of Morocco’s first Arab dynasty), offering a serene atmosphere and scenic views.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): Offer pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring both the city of Meknes and the outdoor ruins of Volubilis.
Summer (June-August): Can be very hot, especially at Volubilis, so plan early morning or late afternoon visits.
Winter (December-February): Mild days, but can be chilly. Good for historical exploration without large crowds.
Things to Do:
Marvel at the grandeur of Bab Mansour El Aleuj.
Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail (respecting access restrictions).
Explore the vast Royal Granaries of Heri es-Souani.
Wander through the lively Place el-Hedim and Meknes Medina, Browse its souks.
Take a step back in time by exploring the impressive Roman ruins of Volubilis, especially its mosaics.
Visit the sacred town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.
Take a horse-drawn carriage tour around Meknes.
Discover the Bou Inania Madrasa in Meknes (different from the one in Fez, also impressive).
Morocco is a country of vibrant contrasts, offering a rich tapestry of experiences from its ancient imperial cities and bustling souqs to the vast, serene Sahara Desert and the tranquil coastal towns. Each destination tells a unique story, blending history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you seek thrilling adventures, deep cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing escape, these 10 places represent the very best of what Morocco has to offer.
Ready to explore these incredible destinations and craft your perfect Moroccan adventure? Hourglass Expeditions specializes in curating personalized journeys that bring your travel dreams to life. Visit our website or contact us today to begin planning your unforgettable expedition to Morocco!
