Morocco dazzles travelers with its kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds – from bustling medinas to vast desert landscapes. Having explored this North African gem extensively, I’ve curated the ultimate guide to the best places to visit in Morocco that balance cultural authenticity with breathtaking beauty.
10 Best Cities in Morocco to Visit
- Marrakech – The Red City
Why visit: Lose yourself in the maze-like Medina, witness snake charmers at Djemaa el-Fna square, and rejuvenate in historic hammams. Don’t miss the Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden.
Best for: First-time visitors, culture enthusiasts.
- Fes – Medieval Marvel
Why visit: Home to the world’s oldest university (Al Quaraouiyine) and the iconic Chouara Tannery. The Fes el-Bali medina is a UNESCO-listed time capsule.
Best for: History buffs, authentic experiences.
- Chefchaouen – Blue Paradise
Why visit: Wander through streets washed in dreamy cobalt blue hues, shop for handmade wool crafts, and hike the Rif Mountains.
Best for: Photography, relaxation - Essaouira – Coastal Charm
Why visit: Historic Portuguese ramparts, fresh seafood grills, and Atlantic Ocean breezes make this “Wind City of Africa” perfect for surfing and GOT filming locations.
Best for: Beach lovers, water sports - Merzouga – Gateway to Sahara
Why visit: Ride camels into Erg Chebbi’s golden dunes, sleep under stars in Berber camps, and witness sunrise over 150m-high sand mountains.
Best for: Adventure seekers, unique landscapes
5 Hidden Gems: Best Places to Go in Morocco
- Atlas Mountains (Imlil Valley)
Trek to Berber villages, summit Mount Toubkal (North Africa’s highest peak), and enjoy mint tea with local families. - Ait Benhaddou
This UNESCO World Heritage Site’s ancient ksar (fortified village) starred in Gladiator and Game of Thrones. - Volubilis
Explore remarkably preserved Roman mosaics and arches near Meknes – Morocco’s best archaeological site. - Todra Gorge
Scale 300m-high limestone canyon walls or hike through palm oases in this rock-climbing mecca. - Legzira Beach
Witness the iconic natural red-rock arches (one collapsed in 2016 – the other remains) near Sidi Ifni.
Morocco Trip Planning Essentials
| Destination | Best Time to Visit | Unique Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Marrakech | Mar-May, Sep-Nov | Night market food tours |
| Sahara Desert | Oct-Apr | Overnight luxury desert camps |
| Chefchaouen | Apr-Jun | Traditional indigo dye workshops |
| Essaouira | Jun-Sep | Kitesurfing lessons |
| Fes | Sep-Nov | Artisan pottery classes |
Cultural Do’s and Don’ts
- Do: Bargain politely in souks (start at 40% of asking price)
- Don’t: Photograph locals without permission
- Do: Dress modestly outside tourist areas
- Don’t: Eat with left hand (considered unclean)
- Do: Learn basic Arabic phrases (Shukran=Thank you)
Budget Breakdown (Per Day)
- Budget: $30-50 (hostels, street food, buses)
- Mid-range: $80-120 (riads, restaurant meals, guided tours)
- Luxury: $250+ (5-star hotels, private drivers, fine dining)
Getting Around Morocco
- Trains: Connect major cities in Morocco like Casablanca-Rabat-Fes
- Grand Taxis: Shared rides between cities
- CTM Buses: Most comfortable long-distance option
- Car Hire: Recommended for desert routes (automatic cars cost $40/day)
FAQ: Morocco Travel Essentials
Q: What are the safest cities in Morocco?
A: Marrakech, Essaouira, and Rabat are safest. Avoid isolated areas near Algeria border.
Q: How many days do I need for Morocco?
A: 10-14 days allows you to visit 4-5 best destinations in Morocco comfortably.
Q: Is Morocco expensive?
A: It’s affordable! Street meals cost $2-5; mid-range hotels $30-60/night.
Q: Can I drink tap water?
A: Not recommended. Buy bottled water (5-7 MAD/$0.50-0.70 per 1.5L).
Q: What vaccinations do I need?
A: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines. Malaria pills only for Sahara rural areas.
Q: Where should I go for authentic Moroccan cuisine?
A: Fes for best street food, Marrakech for upscale dining, Chefchaouen for farm-to-table.
Q: Are credit cards accepted?
A: In cities yes, but carry cash (Moroccan dirhams) for medinas and rural areas.
Insider Tip:
Book desert tours after arriving in Marrakech – local agencies offer better rates than online (3-day Sahara trips from $100 vs $250+ online).
Why Morocco Captivates Travelers
From the scent of saffron in Fes’ tanneries to sunset camel rides in Merzouga, Morocco engages all senses. As travel writer Tahir Shah observed: “In Morocco, the extraordinary is ordinary.” Whether you explore imperial cities, surf Atlantic coasts, or sip tea with nomads, this land promises life-changing adventures.
Have questions about specific places to visit in Morocco? Share your travel plans in the comments for personalized advice!