The jewel in the crown of North Africa, Morocco is just a hop, skip and a jump across the Mediterranean. From some Spanish ports, ships only take an hour to reach Tangier and you can pick up a short flight from anywhere in Europe.
Despite the 2023 earthquake, Morocco has firmly staked out a great reputation for international tourism in recent years, and it’s a destination well worth adding to your European trip in spring or autumn. Our Morocco travel guide gives you the lowdown on what to see, what to do, and what to expect in this wonderful country.
Why go to Morocco?
Morocco is full of charm and promise, mysterious enough to enchant even the most seasoned traveller. Intriguing ancient imperial cities, vibrant and lively souks, peaceful courtyards redolent with fragrance and tiled with colourful mosaics, the backdrop of the Atlas mountain range and the neverending dunes of the Sahara to the south make for a diverse and wonderful destination.
The imperial cities
Four of Morocco’s most important heritage sites are those of the imperial cities, rich with historic dynasties and culture. The Red City of Marrakesh is home to architectural treasures, including the Saadian Tomb and the Koutoubia Mosque. The ancient walled Medina of Fez is honoured as a Unesco World Heritage Site; enter through the ornamental gates and wander along lanes and streets to the 9th-century university, resplendent with coloured ceramics, the imposing R’cif Mosque, and the lively market square. Rabat, on the Atlantic coast, shows you the 1,000-year-old sites of Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V. Finally, the Bab-El-Mansour Gate in Meknes is the gateway to the city of 100 minarets, founded in the 11th Century and brought to imperial splendour 500 years later by Sultan Moulay Ismail.
When to visit
For most regions, the best time to go to Morocco is during spring and autumn, when the temperatures are warm, yet comfortable, and the evenings are balmy. Mid-March through May, plus September and October are the optimum times.
Winter days are still usually pleasantly warm, but the evenings and nights can be very cold, and up in the mountains there will sometimes even be snow. The scorching heat of the summer months is best avoided unless you love hot temperatures; however, the coastal regions tend to stay comfortable all year round, with temperatures hovering around 25°C (77°F).
Fun fact: Although Morocco is officially a dry country, drinking alcohol is permitted on licensed premises. Many rooftop and hotel restaurants serve alcohol and you will even see local Moroccan wines for sale. Prices for alcoholic beverages can be quite steep, but the quality is generally excellent.
How to travel around
Starting in central Marrakesh, take the picturesque and comfortable train northeast to Fez. The seven-hour route is scenic, giving you the chance to view the diverse landscape, from arid deserts to lush farmland and green valleys. Fez to Meknes by train is less than an hour, giving you ample time to explore both cities without losing a day to travel. From Meknes, take the train west onto Rabat with its coastal palm trees. The final leg of the journey takes just a little over two hours.
What to see and do in Marrakech
The Red City is named after the distinctive red clay that was used to construct the rosy-hued ramparts and buildings of Marrakech. Points of interest in the 12th-century city include its ancient history and culture, which has morphed seamlessly into a vibrant modern atmosphere, renowned as the creative capital of Morocco.
The main square in the old town is home to many good places to eat in Marrakech. It’s a lively place, buzzing with activity day and night. Grab a freshly pressed juice in the morning, or pick up a local street food delicacy from one of the stalls in the evening.
Central Palaces
The Jewish quarter is home to two of the top things to see in Marrakech: one of the most opulent palaces in the country, Palais Bahia, with mosaics and gilded ceilings. The 16th-century El Badi Palace is another, with gold and marble interiors and storks nesting on the rooftop.
Tahanaout Mountain Villages
Pass through lemon groves and Berber villages to the arty town of Tahanaout in the Atlas mountains, just outside the city. Home to many contemporary Moroccan artists, the spectacular site is one of the must-see places to visit in Marrakech; a muse for many.
Saadian Tombs
Near the Kasbah mosque, the royal necropolis of the Saadian Tombs is the resting place of the Saadian dynasty, with more than 200 crypts featuring pillars, columns and archways in gold, zellige tiles, and exquisite, hand-carved woodwork.
Jardín Majorelle
The stunning Jardín Majorelle is Yves Saint Laurent’s former studio and you can understand from where he got his inspiration. Walk between walls of towering bamboo between blue and yellow ceramic walls enclosing hidden pools.
Where to stay in Marrakech
In Marrakesh, there’s an array of centrally located, charming hotels to suit every budget.
El Fenn houses a labyrinth of luxury rooms in interconnected riads, joined together by sun-dappled courtyards with zellige tiles, three pools, ornate carved wooden doors. Utterly unique and full of hidden corners.
A beautiful riad in the heart of the medina, Dar Darma is a peaceful haven with a shaded rooftop garden, pool and solarium. Sumptuously designed suites are full of bold colours and local crafts.
A small and charming riad in the Kasbah, Riad Almisk offers homely and comfortable rooms in traditional Moroccan design, each with its own individual flair. Breakfast on the rooftop terrace or take a dip in the pool.
Where to eat and drink in Marrakech
Moroccan cuisine is generally excellent, often with stunning views of mosques, minarets, and the Atlas Mountains peeping over the skyline. Experience cultural and culinary magic, in some of the best restaurants in Marrakech.
A stylish rooftop restaurant in the heart of the Medina with a lovely modern twist on Moroccan classics.
A chic and trendy spot with Art Nouveau glamour, open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea.
Luxury Moroccan cuisine with a beautiful rooftop and cosy interior with a log fire for the winter months.
A stunning rooftop bar and restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and seasonal Moroccan food.
What to see and do in Fez
In Fez, Morocco, attractions abound. It’s the most complete medieval city in the Arab world, with one million inhabitants still living in the vibrant Medina, one of the most spectacular things to see in Fez.
Fez Medina
Get lost in the wandering alleyways of the largest car-free urban area in the world. Whitewashed buildings set with carved wooden doors line the narrow streets, leading to souks and tiled squares.
Jnan Sbil Gardens
Peaceful walkways lined with palm trees, fountains and water features, the public gardens are a tranquil bit of paradise in the bustle of the medina; a haven for birds and people alike.
Bou Inania Madrasa
A stunning and iconic religious building with an adjoining mosque in the heart of the medina. A visit here is one of the most extraordinary things to do in Fez; you’ll marvel at the intricate wooden carvings and a towering green minaret.
Kairaouine
The world’s oldest university and mosque, dating from the 9th Century, with marble courtyards, fountains, archways and wooden carvings. You can spot the mosque’s minaret from nearby rooftops.
Rooftop Sunsets
Many of the best restaurants in Fez have rooftop terraces from which you can watch the sun setting behind the spectacular city landscape while enjoying dinner.
What to know about the Medina
The Fez Medina is a large place, full of labyrinthian twists and turns that even confound Google Maps. You will get lost, but don’t panic – that’s all part of the experience and the charm.
Teenagers and young men are always on the lookout for confused tourists and will offer to lead you out in return for a hefty tip. If you really are stuck and in a hurry to get somewhere, take one of them up on the offer. But be aware that 20 dirhams is a respectable amount to pay for the service, rather than the 100 dirhams that many will insist is the going rate. Some will tell you that the usual lanes are closed and you won’t get out without their help – but don’t fall for it, you’ll find your own way eventually!
Try these rooftop restaurants in Fez
A Relais & Chateaux property with an absolutely gorgeous rooftop. You’ll have to pay 200 dirhams to enter but it’s a cost that goes towards your food and drinks bills.
A new opening that has been embraced enthusiastically by stylish locals, with a beautiful rooftop terrace.
Where to stay in Fez
From the luxury to the affordable, hotels in Fez don’t disappoint with traditional hospitality on any budget.
A beautifully restored riad combining architectural splendour and modern luxury. The traditional style of the city meets the peaceful sound of trickling water in the sumptuous courtyards and luxury rooms.
White columns and intricate archways edge the courtyards of La Maison Bleue, paved with colourful mosaics and planted with oranges. The plush rooms have unique charm and colourful textiles.
A traditional riad in the heart of the city, Dar Bensouda features tranquil courtyards with beautiful tiles, comfortable rooms with Moroccan handcrafts, and a courtyard swimming pool lined with palms.
What to see in Meknes
The smallest imperial city, Meknes is still one of the best places to visit in Morocco for history buffs. The whole city is a UNESCO world heritage site, including mausoleums, Roman ruins, an ancient Islamic learning centre, and some of the best food in Morocco. The medina is small, charming, and intimate, a world away from the hustle and bustle of the big city souks.
Completed in 1732, this elaborate gate was built as a tribute to Sultan Moulay Ismail, completed after his death by his son. Carved and tiled in green and white, the incredibly detailed patterns are truly impressive.
Some of the largest Roman ruins in Africa, dating to the 3rd Century BCE. Beautifully preserved mosaics and the stunning Decumanus Maximus, the east-west street crossing the settlement.
Housed in a simple and charming garden, the museum’s building is impressive in itself, but also home to displays of jewellery, cooking utensils, old books and other arts and crafts from the time of Sultan Moulay Ismail.
Where to stay in Meknes
Meknes is small, but there is plenty of beautiful accommodation, ranging from a vineyard chateau to a typical riad.
Rooms and suites are gorgeously designed, with patterned textiles and views of the vineyards and Middle Atlas. The Spanish-Moorish architecture of the boutique Chateau Roslane lies in luxuriant green gardens.
A typical Moroccan home in a traditional and beautifully restored riad in the medina, with a view of the Bab-El-Mansour Gate from the terrace. Rooms are simple, comfortable and elegant.
What to see in Rabat
A vibrant modern culture combines with a rich and deep history for an exotic and adventurous city. Rabat’s site on the Atlantic Ocean means there are plenty of stunning beaches, but the historical buildings take pride of place. Street food in Morocco is best enjoyed here in the old town of Rabat, and the lively souk offers all the beautiful wares and haggling opportunities you could ever want.
The medina combines traditional whitewashed architecture with religious heritage. Take a trip back in time, as you pass through the historic gates to the ancient traditions within.
Commissioned in the 12th Century, the monumental Hassan Tower is a masterpiece of Almohad architecture. White pillars line the approach to the tower, with its intricate and geometric design.
Kasbah
The Kasbah Rabat is free to enter and one of the most affordable things to do in Morocco. This 12th -century fortress, perched atop the hill and overlooking the ocean, offers stunning views, ornate gates and lush gardens.
Members of the Marinid dynasty were laid to rest within these fortified walls. Intricate mosques and stunning mausolea are set in lush green gardens in this emblematic site.
Where to eat in Rabat
Behind a secret door in the Medina, Dar Zaki serves Moroccan food, simply presented but with complex traditional flavours.
Authentic Moroccan cuisine, cooked over charcoal embers and served by waiters in traditional dress.
The international restaurant spills out onto an exquisite terrace in the lush gardens, surrounded by colourful blooms.
Where to stay Rabat
In the heart of the capital city, Rabat has a range of affordable and luxury hotels, making it one of the best cities to visit in Morocco.
Built as a tribute to Moorish architecture, the Tour Hassan Palace features elegant, comfortable rooms, blue-tiled courtyards with fountains and greenery and a traditional spa and pool in stunning settings.
The former residence of a pasha, Euphoriad has been redesigned to epitomise modern comfort in historic surroundings. Elegant Moroccan art, a fragrant rooftop pool and gardens, tilework and mosaics await you.
A charming white-walled building, centrally located with a rooftop terrace and pool, each of Dar Shâan’s rooms has its own patio and delightful traditional design with archways and fretwork.
Pack that suitcase
With such a variety of diverse and unusual attractions, Morocco is a country that offers an unforgettable travel experience. The Imperial Cities are some of the best places to go in Morocco, with endless opportunities to view landscapes, monuments and sample the culture and food in this uniquely magical country.
Safety, cultural sensitivities, and what it’s like travelling in Morocco
Morocco has low crime rates and is generally considered a safe country. The vast majority of people you meet will be friendly and helpful.
As in any country, tourist hotspots are known for pickpockets and scams, so keep your personal belongings secure and your wits about you.
Morocco is considered a liberal Muslim country, but you should be aware of cultural sensitivities. Women should be conscious of dressing modestly, with clothes that cover most of their bodies, ideally down to your elbows and ankles and covering your hair with a scarf. This is especially true when in or nearby mosques and religious sites.
Solo female travellers should still feel confident, but be aware that you may face some extra challenges, like low-level street harassment. Morocco is not a safe place to visit for LGBTQ+ travellers who wish to openly express their sexual or gender identity and public displays of affection, particularly between same-sex partners, is strongly advised against.