Morocco Travelers Recommend

The Sahara Desert looms large in the imagination of the traveler in Morocco. And anyone who's been to see this natural wonder will tell you that it's an absolute must for any visitor to Marrakech. Here are some option for what to do and how to visit.

Camel Rides

One of the best (and most traditional) ways to experience the Moroccan desert is by camel. A camel ride through the palm groves of Marrakech and into the desert can take as little as a few hours, and often includes a stop at a local Berber home for mint tea and a snack.

Hot-Air Balloon Rides

Gazing down at the desert and foothills of the Atlas Mountains from a hot air balloon gives you an idea of the size and scope of the vast Sahara Desert. This bucket list–worthy experience is a great way to kick off a day in Marrakech or further exploration of the desert.

Buggy and Quad Bike Tours

For a desert-style adrenaline rush, opt for a tour of the desert and palm groves by buggy or desert quad bike. These small-group tours by all-terrain vehicle allow you to safely take in the stark landscapes of Morocco in as little as half a day.

Desert Camping

Experiencing the Moroccan desert beneath the stars is a completely different experience than by day. Those who have a night to spare will be rewarded with a camping trip into the desert, which often includes a camel trek from M’hamid into the Merzouga dunes of the Zagora Desert to a Bedouin desert camp, a sunset over the dunes, and a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars to the tune of local folk music.

Multi-Day Tours

The beauty and diversity of the Moroccan desert warrants more than just one day of exploration. On a multi-day trip, you might explore the UNESCO-listed kasbah of Ait Benhaddou or the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, stop at Atlas Studios (one of the largest movie studios in Africa), camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes, or take in the scenic beauty of the Dades and Todra gorges.

While the sights, sounds, and history of Marrakech are intoxicating, the wide open skies, graceful palm groves, and authentic Berber villages of the countryside make for a welcome escape best experienced the traditional way: by camel! Here’s what you need to know.

Highlights

• Trade the chaos of the medina for a relaxed exploration of the rural Moroccan countryside.

• Learn how to mount and ride a camel, while wearing the traditional protective scarf of Morocco’s desert dwellers.

• Enjoy a sunset ride through a scenic palm grove.

• Sip a warm glass of mint tea at the home of a local Berber family.

Combo Tours

A quintessential Marrakech experience, a sunset camel ride can be combined with other activities to make the most of your time in Morocco. Afterward, take an adrenaline-fueled quad bike tour of the deserts outside the city, or begin your day with a stroll through the serene Majorelle Garden before heading to the Palmeraie for your camel ride. 

Three days in Marrakech gives you time to explore the history, culture, and culinary landscape of the medina, take in the desert scenery on the outskirts of town, and head further afield to the Atlas Mountains or the Moroccan coast. Here’s what you need to know to plan your ultimate 36 hours in Marrakech.

Day 1: Essential Marrakech

The sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of Marrakech’s maze-like medina are intoxicating, and you can easily spend a full day exploring the heart of the city. It’s easy to get lost, so consider starting with a half- or full-day tour to get your bearings. Do some shopping for spices and handcrafted artisan items in the colorful souqs, take in the intricate tile work and carvings of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, walk the grounds of Bahia Palace, and spend time soaking up the circus-like atmosphere of always busy Djemaa el Fna square. If your feet get tired, climb aboard a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus for self-paced tour around town. In the evening, book a table at a Marrakech dinner show to learn more about the folkloric traditions of Morocco while feasting on local specialties.

Day 2: Food, Shopping, Adventure

Now that you have a feel for the city, spend today diving deeper into its facets that interest you. Shop for local ingredients in a hands-on cooking class in the medina, learn the art of throwing pottery or leather working from a local artisan, go on a shopping spree with your own private guide in the labyrinthine souqs, or enjoy outdoor adventure with a quad biking tour or camel ride through the desert palm groves just outside the city. Once the sun goes down, head into the medina for a street food tour led by a local foodie. Sample some of the city’s best bites from hard-to-find spots. Try dishes such as tagine and couscous, or take your tastebuds on a culinary adventure with unfamiliar meats and other delicacies.

Day 3: Day Trips

Today is your chance to get out and explore Morocco. Many visitors choose a day trip into the Atlas mountains for a chance to see the region’s Berber villages, waterfalls, and valleys. Alternately, head through the mountains and into the desert to visit the town of Ouarzazate, the kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the dunes of the Sahara Desert. Another day trip option takes travelers to the seaside community of Essaouira, known for its fortified medina, scenic port, and favorable windsurfing conditions. Most day trips won’t get you back to Marrakech until fairly late, so plan to end your trip with a relaxing dinner at your hotel or riad (traditional Moroccan home).

With 48 hours to spend in Marrakech, you have time to wander the old medina, see the city’s star attractions, and get out into the desert for a taste of adventure without straying too far from the city. See below for tips on how to make the most of your two days in Marrakech.

Day 1: City and Souks

Morning: Get your bearings in the maze-like streets of Marrakech on a guided tour. Whether on foot or from an air-conditioned vehicle, see city highlights, including the Bahia Palace, Jardin Majorelle, Saadian Tombs, city wall, Koutoubia Mosque, and circus-like Djemaa el Fna square. If you prefer a self-guided tour, take a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.

Afternoon: After lunch, head to the medina to shop the city’s colorful souks. The tightly packed maze includes vendors selling leatherwork, ceramics, jewelry, woven rugs, spices, and lamps. Get lost on your own, or take a private shopping tour with a guide to glean tips on how to haggle.

Night: Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Morocco on a street food tour. Eat where locals eat at hard-to-find stalls deep within the medina. Learn about traditional dishes and how they’re prepared while sampling tagine, unfamiliar meats, Moroccan breads, couscous, and sfenj, a traditional donut.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure

Morning: Regroup with a day of fresh air. Wake before the sun for an early morning hot air balloon flight above the Moroccan desert. Gaze down on the city and foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Most balloon rides include a traditional Berber breakfast of corn bread, olives, fresh fruit, and mint tea.

Afternoon: Soak up the Moroccan countryside on a guided quad bike excursion through the deserts just outside the city. Ride past Berber villages and through palm groves on an all-terrain vehicle, and stop at a Berber home for mint tea and a snack.

Night: End your day of outdoor adventure with a sunset camel ride through a palm grove. Hear stories illustrating the important relationship between camels and the Moroccan people as you learn to ride a camel while donning a scarf worn by Morocco’s desert dwellers.

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city but with three days, there’s time to cover the highlights and explore further afield. To maximize time, opt for tours that combine multiple sights or day trips that visit two cities in one day. Here’s how to spend three days in Casablanca.

Day 1: Sightseeing in the City

Start the day with a walking tour of Casablanca’s main food market, the Marché Central, for an introduction to local life in Morocco. Food lovers can combine a market tour with a seafood lunch or sign up for a cooking class that reveals the secrets of traditional Moroccan cuisine.

A half-day sightseeing tour offers a stress-free way to explore dispersed central neighborhoods such as the Habous quarter, with its Royal Palace and French colonial architecture, and the Old Medina. Keep your camera handy as you wander United Nations Place and Mohammed V Square before taking a peek inside the Sacre Coeur Cathedral.

In the evening, a visit to Rick’s Café—a replica of the café in the Casablanca movie—is a must but for the best views, indulge in a cocktail at Sky 28, the city’s highest bar.

Day 2: See More of Morocco

Three of Morocco’s imperial cities—Fez, Marrakech and Rabat—are reachable on a day trip from Casablanca and options for visiting are plentiful.

You can head to nearby Rabat and spend the day exploring the Moroccan capital, where attractions include the Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum. Or, a little further afield, Fez is famous for its UNESCO-listed medina, and a walking tour of its colorful souks—in particular the much-photographed tanneries—is a must for day-trippers. Alternatively, a visit to Marrakech offers the chance to shop in Morocco’s most renowned souks, sample Moroccan cuisine at Jemaa el-Fna square, and take a camel ride in the desert.

For the best value, look for a tour that includes hotel pickup and lunch, or choose a private tour to enjoy the flexibility of a personalized itinerary.

Day 3: Explore the Corniche

The Ain Diab Corniche road runs parallel to the Atlantic coast and boasts numerous lookout points. Full-day tours allow you to soak up the scenery without having to worry about navigating and keeping your eyes on the road. A staple sight on these tours is the Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca’s most photographed landmark and one of the largest mosques in the world. The view from the outside is stunning but to visit the interiors, a tour guide is essential.

Continue along the Corniche to the sandy beaches of Lalla Meryem and Ain Diab. Right next door is the gigantic Morocco Mall (Africa’s largest mall) which has a huge selection of shops, restaurants, and cafés, as well as a cinema, ice rink, and aquarium.

You can’t visit Morocco without paying a visit to the cultural capital of Marrakech, a city of contrasts that is as bewildering as it is enchanting. Here’s what you need to know about visiting the city from Casablanca, located less than 2.5 hours by road to the north.

Day Trips

With only a day to spend in the city, start off with a visit to the UNESCO-listed medina. It’s the heart of historic Marrakech and is centered on the bustling Djeena El Fna square. This is the central hub of the city, where you can lose yourself in the labyrinth-like souks, tuck into steaming tagine at a rooftop restaurant, and be entertained by a constant stream of snake charmers, fortune tellers, and street musicians. Spend the afternoon checking off the sights with a tour of the opulent Bahia Palace, a visit to the 16th-century Ben Youssef Medersa, and a stroll around the colorful Jardin Majorelle (Majorelle Garden), owned by designer Yves Saint Laurent.

Multi-Day Tours

There’s a lot to see in Marrakech and its surroundings, and those who can spare the time will be rewarded with a deeper, more leisurely exploration of the city. Multiday tours, lasting up to 15 days, often take travelers further afield to other notable destinations like Rabat, Tangier, Fez, Chefchaouen, the Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara desert where you can sleep overnight in a Bedouin camp.

Things to Know

• Choose between the value of a small-group tour and the flexibility of a private tour.

• A Marrakech day tour from Casablanca can last upward of nine hours, while multi-day Morocco tours last anywhere from eight to 15 days.

• Most day trips include hotel pickup and drop-off in Casablanca, as well as entrance fees to attractions on the itinerary.

• Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and some small bills for bargaining in the souks of the medina. 

Agadir is ideally situated for exploring Southern Morocco, and three days leaves enough time to see the city sights, enjoy the beaches, and venture farther afield. Here’s how to spend three days in Agadir. 

Day 1: City Sights to Sunset Rides

A city tour is the ideal way to find your bearings and get to know Agadir, whether you join a group tour or explore with a private guide. Start by admiring the views from the hilltop kasbah, a 16th-century fortress just northwest of the city. Then explore the old medina and stroll the atmospheric Talbourjt quarter, stop at landmarks including the Royal Palace and the Mohammed V Mosque, or learn about Berber culture at the Museum of Amazigh Culture. In the afternoon, tuck into Moroccan street food and shop for handicrafts at the Souk El Had d’Agadir, or perhaps visit a local argan-oil factory to learn about the oil Morocco is famous for. End the day with a camel ride through the dunes and watch the sunset along the banks of the Souss River, before enjoying a delicious barbecue dinner in the countryside. 

Day 2: Moroccan Culture and Beachside Fun

Learn more about Morocco’s culinary traditions this morning with a cooking class. Visit the local market to shop for ingredients, prepare typical dishes such as tagine with a local chef, then sit down to enjoy a home-cooked lunch. Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing at Agadir’s beaches—the southern resort is sunny all year round. Adventurous travelers can book a fun activity such as Jet Skiing, ATV riding, or sandboarding, or set sail on a boat cruise and stop to swim or fish along the way. In the evening, attend a performance showcasing Berber cultural traditions, with live music, belly dancers, snake charmers, and fire-eaters; dinner is included.  

Day 3: Take a Day Trip

Agadir is a good jumping-off point for Southern Morocco, so devote your third day to a day trip. Nature lovers can choose between Paradise Valley to the north—a stunning valley where you can walk amid wildflowers, visit artisan farms, and swim in natural pools—and Souss Massa National Park to the south, where you can spot wildlife on the steppe or explore the beaches and dunes in a 4WD. For beach lovers, the coastal resort of Essaouira and the surf hot spot of Taghazout are both within day-trip distance. You could even head to Marrakech and spend a day discovering the royal palaces and historic souks.

Even though its Morocco’s largest city, one day in Casablanca is still enough time to tick off the highlights. To maximize your time, choose a tour that takes you to several historic neighborhoods or opt for a private tour to devise your own itinerary. Here’s how to spend one day in Casablanca. 

Morning: Markets and Monuments

Casablanca’s central landmarks are dazzling yet dispersed; a tour lets you cover more ground without navigating public transport. Tours typically cover French colonial architecture in the Habous quarter, the Royal Palace of Casablanca, Mohammed V Mosque, and the walled Old Medina. 

Pass by United Nations Place and Mohammed V Square and make a photo stop at the grand Sacre Coeur Cathedral. Time your arrival at Marché Central—Casablanca’s main food market—for lunch. For greater insight into Moroccan cuisine, food lovers can book a guided market and tasting tour, combined with either a seafood lunch or cooking class.

Afternoon: Explore the Corniche

Casablanca’s star attraction is undoubtedly the Hassan II Mosque, located on a cliff that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Tours of the interior must be booked in advance, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment—many Casablanca sightseeing tours include a tour of the mosque, which saves the hassle of booking independently.

Afterwards, tours tend to continue along the Ain Diab Corniche, the scenic boulevard that runs along the seafront, and stop to visit the shrine of Sidi Abderrahman. Further south, the Lalla Meryem and Ain Diab beaches offer sandy shores, where you can relax, sunbathe, and cool off with a swim. Opt for private tour if you want to explore further or enjoy extra time at the beaches. 

Night: Beachside bars

Stick around to watch sunset from the coast, then head to one of the many beachside bars or restaurants for dinner or drinks. Travelers looking to party can find some of Casablanca’s biggest nightclubs along the waterfront, where you can drink and dance into the early hours.

Alternatively, head back to the city for a cocktail at the elegant Sky 28 bar. Located on the top floor of the Twin Centre tower, it affords panoramic views of the illuminated city.

The bustling souks (marketplaces), serene riads (traditional houses), and intricate architecture make Marrakech a favorite destination in Morocco. While you could easily spend days wandering the labyrinthine medina, it’s possible to experience Marrakech in a single day. Here’s how to make the most of your limited time.

Morning: Marrakech City Highlights

Navigating the busy streets and back alleys of Marrakech can be a daunting task, especially for first-time visitors. Get your bearings by joining a morning walking tour. With the help of a local guide, see key landmarks such as Djemaa El Fna, Koutoubia Mosque, Ben Youssef Madrasa, Saadian Tombs, and the opulent Bahia Palace without getting lost. To explore on your own, take a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus, with two routes through the city to help you see the sights at your own pace.

Afternoon: Medina Shopping

You don’t have to be a shopaholic to feel the urge for retail therapy in Marrakech. The souks or bazaars of the old medina teem with shops selling handcrafted items—everything from leather goods and handmade jewelry to ceramics and glass lanterns. Learn how to navigate the maze of shops while getting the best deals on a shopping tour with your own private guide. You’ll walk away with tips on how to haggle and what to look for when shopping for carpets, spices, and crafts.

Night: Sunset Camel Ride

Wrap up your day in Marrakech with a quintessential Moroccan experience, a camel ride through a palm grove just outside the city. These experiences typically include a visit with a local Berber family (often over a cup of Moroccan mint tea), followed by a gentle ride through the Palmeraie as you learn the importance of camels to the Moroccan people. Choose an option with round-trip transportation for hassle-free drop-off at your hotel.

Two days in Casablanca gives you plenty of time to explore Morocco’s largest city. To make the most your time, choose tours that visit multiple sights in one day and offer an insight into Moroccan culture and cuisine. See below for some ideas.

Day 1: Markets and Monuments

Morning: A walking tour of the Marché Central—Casablanca’s lively food market—is a great way to experience local life; visiting with a guide means you learn more about regional ingredients. For the full experience, combine your tour with a seafood lunch at a market restaurant, or join a cooking class to create your own dishes under the guidance of a chef.

Afternoon: Explore Casablanca’s central neighborhoods on a half-day sightseeing tour. See the Royal Palace of Casablanca and admire the French colonial architecture of the Habous quarter. Tours tend also to tick off the walled Old Medina, the Sacre Coeur Cathedral and the main plazas of United Nations Place and Mohammed V Square.

Night: Casablanca is at its most atmospheric after sunset; the best city views are from the Sky 28 bar in the Twin Center tower. After a cocktail, head to Rick’s Café for dinner. A replica of the café in cult movie Casablanca, it’s an Instagram favorite, and offs tasty tagines and live entertainment that includes belly dancing.

Day 2: Sun, sand and shopping

Morning: The seafront Hassan II Mosque is among the largest in the world and is a magnificent example of Islamic architecture. Exploring the interiors is only possible with a guide, so it’s best to visit as part of a tour. Due to its icon status, the mosque is a staple of almost all Casablanca sightseeing tours.

Afternoon: Soak up the scenery along the Ain Diab Corniche, a coastal road that runs south from the mosque along Casablanca’s beaches. Jump out to visit the seafront shrine of Sidi Abderrahman and then stroll along the sandy Ain Diab beach and cool off with a swim in the Atlantic.

Night: Spend the evening at the Morocco Mall, the largest of its kind in Africa, is located right next to the beach. Open until late, it has dozens of shops, restaurants, and cafés, as well as a multiplex cinema, a luxury souk, a musical fountain, an aquarium, and even an ice rink.

From snake charmers and henna-painted fortune tellers in Djemaa El Fna, to traditions of Atlas mountains’ Berber villages, Moroccan culture is vibrant and captivating. Wander through the medina of Marrakech to unveil a cultural melting pot, with souks selling handicrafts and more. Here’s how to experience culture in Marrakech.

• Enjoy a traditional Moroccan mint tea at a rooftop cafe overlooking Djemaa El Fna.

• Take a guided tour of the souks and watch craftsmen weaving carpets, dying cow hides, and making traditional Moroccan handicrafts.

• Enjoy Fantasia, a dazzling spectacle of belly dancing, galloping horse parades, traditional music, and dancing, at a Marrakech restaurant.

• Take a cooking class and learn the secrets of Marrakech’s popular dishes, Moroccan tagine and couscous.

• Admire the views while on a horse-drawn carriage ride through Marrakech.

• Learn about Berber culture with a day trip into the High Atlas Mountains, a visit to a traditional Bedouin camp, or a camel trek through the Sahara desert.

• Treat your senses to a tasting tour of Marrakech’s spice markets and street food stalls, and sample an array of Moroccan foods.

• Relax and unwind with a spa experience at a traditional Moroccan hammam.

No trip to Morocco is complete without experiencing the rituals of the hammam, or Turkish-style steam bath. From a traditional scrubdown to a luxury spa treatment in a five-star resort, here are some options for a relaxing hammam in Marrakech.

What is a Hammam?

At its most basic, a hammam is the Moroccan version of a public bathhouse, where men and women come to socialize and cleanse. The experience varies from place to place, but it generally begins with a sit in a hot steam room to open up the pores, followed by a scrub with a special black soap and an exfoliating glove to remove dead skin, and it finishes with immersion in a cold water bath. Local hammams often have large group steam rooms and pools (with separate facilities for men and women), while luxury spas offer a more intimate experience with a larger range of treatments, including a couples hammam.

Highlights

• Unwind during a traditional Moroccan hammam ritual.

• Choose between an authentic local bathhouse or a luxury spa experience.

• Combine your hammam treatment with a private Moroccan cooking class.

• Book a multi-day well-being retreat that includes a private hammam and guided city tour.

• A typical hammam ritual takes about 30 minutes and is sometimes followed by a massage or additional spa treatment.

With rambling medieval alleyways, the ambient scent of spice and leather, and the constant din of vendors and donkey hooves hitting the cobbles, Fez is a multisensory place to visit. For travelers searching for a fix of atmospheric, old-world Morocco, here’s what you need to know about Fez tours from Casablanca.

Highlights

• Browse the Fez Medina (Fez el-Bali) and shop in souks where artisans from carpenters to coppersmiths create traditional handcrafted goods.

• Tour the New Town (Fez el-Jdid) and the Fez Mellah (Jewish Quarter), a walled quarter where Fez’s Jewish community once lived. 

• Visit top landmarks and attractions including the Royal Palace of Fez (Dar el Makhzen), Bou Jeloud Gardens (Jardin Jnan Sbil), and more.

• Inhale the pungent smells of animal skin and dye, and observe leather-workers at the Chouara tannery.

• Admire exquisite Islamic architecture at the Al-Attarine Madrasa and Kairaouine Mosque.

• Opt for a multi-day excursion from Casablanca and visit both Fez and Chefchaouen, a mountain town known for its photogenic blue buildings. 

Things to Know

• Fez is about 183 miles (295 kilometers) from Casablanca. Driving from Casablanca takes about 3 hours 20 minutes. 

• Day tours from Fez to Casablanca typically last between 11 and 14 hours.

• Wear comfortable, cushioned shoes—you’ll spend a lot of time exploring the cobbled and car-free Fez-el-Bali on foot.

• Most tours feature free time for lunch or an optional upgrade of lunch at a local restaurant. 

Three days in Fez allow you to experience the city’s ancient walled medina, delicious food, and vibrant markets, and enjoy a hammam steam bath. But you can also travel far beyond the city, venturing into the Rif or Middle Atlas mountains, to ancient Volubilis, or as far as the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here’s how to get the most out of three days in Fez.

Day 1: Fez Fantastic

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fez’s medina dates back over 1,100 years. Start the day with a walking tour through its dynamic warren of streets. Discover historic madrassas (Islamic schools) and Kairaouine Mosque, which includes one of the world’s oldest universities, then immerse yourself in art at the Dar Batha Museum, once a royal palace. See traditional crafts at the Chouara Tannery; browse carpets and perfumes; and watch fountains dance against colorful tiles. Treat yourself to a cooking class for lunch, shopping in the souk and preparing Moroccan signature dishes such as tagine, couscous, or Fez’s favorite pastilla (sweet meat pie). Travel out to Art Naji, where some of the city’s finest potters labor, then start the evening by luxuriating in a hammam steam bath. Finish with a sophisticated dinner at one of the city’s palace restaurants.

Day 2: Mountain Magic

It’s a long way to go if you only have three days in Fez, but if a desert trip is on your Morocco bucket list, head south for an overnight adventure among the Saharan dune sea called Erg Chebbi. Typical tours include a sunset camel ride through the dunes, an overnight stay in a Berber camp with barbecue and stargazing, and stops in the Middle Atlas and an oasis along the way. Alternatively, stay closer to Fez with a trip to your choice of Moroccan mountains. Travel north to the Rif and the “blue city” of Chefchaouen, where cobbled lanes run down the hillside in shades of vivid blue and white and the medina is a shopper’s dream. Or head south to the Middle Atlas, with mountain lakes, cedar forests, Barbary macaques, and cool cities. Back in Fez, wrap up your day with a street-food safari.

Day 3: Royal Route

Spend your final day in the area exploring one or more of three heritage sites: Meknes, Moulay Idriss, and Volubilis. Founded in the 11th century and, like Fez, once a capital of Morocco, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meknes offers opulent imperial gates, a grand city square, and a wealth of palaces. A pilgrimage site for Muslims, Moulay Idriss is a charming hilltop town, although the mausoleum that makes it sacred is off-limits to non-Muslims. The UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Volubilis, nearby, are Morocco’s best-preserved, known for their elaborate mosaics and the storks that nest atop the columns in season. Back in Fez, make time for dinner in a restaurant in a traditional riad (courtyard home), then say farewell with mint tea or Moroccan cocktails on the roof.

A heady mix of North African and European influences, the port of Tangier is one of Morocco’s liveliest and most charismatic cities. From its hilltop casbah and warren-like medina to its European-built whitewashed Ville Nouvelle quarter, beaches, and out-of-town sights, here are our ideas for seeing as much as possible in a day.

Morning: View the Highlights

Finding your way around Tangier can be confusing, so save time with a hop-on hop-off tour. Ride the city loop around the Ville Nouvelle and medina districts, passing mosques, monuments, and open plazas en route. Learn about the landmarks via the audio commentary, and alight at stops that interest you such as Moulay Hafid Palace, the marina, and Grand Socco square, home to a medina gateway. 

Alternatively, join a private or group tour by foot or minivan to explore with a guide. These typically include forays into the medina and its Kasbah Museum, along with stops to view the Grand Mosque and mysterious seafront Phoenician tombs.

Afternoon: Coastal and Culinary Exploration

Some of Tangier’s must-sees lie outside the city along Morocco’s picturesque Atlantic–Mediterranean coast, so switch to the hop-on hop-off coastal route this afternoon. Gaze at the spot where the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean merge from the lighthouse at Cape Spartel, and explore the Caves of Hercules—wind-sculpted grottoes where the sea crashes through an Africa-shaped aperture.

If Tangier’s culinary scene tempts you, book a food walking tour. Dip into the medina’s cafés to sample specialities beloved by locals—tasting sweet pastries, cheeses, mint tea, and more. Alternatively, join a cooking class to prep dishes such as tagines and fresh bread before savoring them in true Moroccan style.

Evening: Indulge in a Shopping Spree

Tangier’s medina is a shopper’s paradise, so end your day with a private tour of its tightly packed lanes. Choose a late-afternoon start—the medina springs back to life come twilight—and scout the alleyways and markets with the help of your guide. Shop for everything from leatherware to tea glasses, and pick up on your guide’s bartering know-how to leave with bags of bargains. Or, take a camel ride along Tangier’s beaches as the sun sets over the sands and city’s palm-lined promenades.

Whether you’re there on a day trip from Marrakech or enjoying a stopover along Morocco’s south coast, one day in Essaouira is just enough time to take in the highlights. Explore the UNESCO-listed medina, browse the souks, and take a camel ride along the beach. Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in this port city.

Morning: The medina

A walking tour is the ideal way to discover Essaouira’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the historic city. Start with a visit to the old citadel, the Scala du Port—climb up to the ramparts for sweeping views of the coast. Continue into the medina, where the mazelike streets, palm-shaded plazas, and blue and white painted buildings make for impressive photos. Then, stop by the lively Moulay el Hassan square to enjoy a glass of Moroccan mint tea or a seafood lunch.

Afternoon: From the souks to the port

Essaouira’s souks stretch from the center of the medina all the way up to the northern gate of Bab Doukkala. Part of the charm is getting lost in the labyrinthine lanes, so give yourself plenty of time to wander around the tiny shops, markets, and workshops. This is the place to pick up traditional souvenirs, such as colorful handicrafts, exotic spices, and Moroccan argan oil. For a more personalized experience, shop with a private guide who can help you haggle for the best prices. 

In the late afternoon, head over to the port to watch as the fishing boats return to shore with the day’s haul—it’s a memorable sight, so don’t forget your camera. 

Night: Sunset sightseeing

A camel ride is a quintessential experience for visitors to Morocco. Set out on a scenic sunset ride along beaches, forest trails, and dunes, savoring the views along the coast. 

Afterward, return to Essaouira Beach for a drink at one of the beachfront bars. Or, attend a performance of traditional Gnaoua music and dance. Essaouira is an important center of the art form, and hosts the annual Gnaoua World Music Festival.

From the frozen wilderness of Iceland to the sun-soaked coast of Croatia, Game of Thrones has picked backdrops around the globe worthy of the Seven Kingdoms, and Morocco’s real-life wonders have made their mark on the show. Here are the GoT filming locations that fans should add to their itinerary.

Ait Benhaddou as Yunkai

A UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the heart of the desert, the ancient fortified city of Ait Benhaddou has had its fair share of big screen appearances, having been used as a filming site for Gladiator, The Mummy, and Kingdom of Heaven. Most recently, it was transformed into the Yellow City of Yunkai for HBO’s Game of Thrones, one of the slave-trading cities liberated by Daenerys Targaryen in season three. Ait Benhaddou can be visited on a day trip from nearby Ouarzazate or Marrakech, and visitors can explore the crumbling ruins on a walking tour.

Ouarzazate as Pentos

A short distance from Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate doubled up as Pentos, one of the free cities and where Daenerys and Viserys first met Khal Drogo and the Dothrakis in the show’s pilot episode. Film fans can also take a tour of the legendary Atlas Film Studio, the “Hollywood of Morocco,” where films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Star Wars were shot.

Essaouira as Astapor

Journey from the desert to the coast, where the historic port town of Essaouira is not only known for its beautiful beach and lively souks, but also for being another important Game of Thrones filming site from season three. Take a guided tour of the scala (the ancient Portuguese fortifications) and follow in the footsteps of Daenerys in Astapor, the home of the Unsullied.

Two days in Agadir gives you time to take in the sights, relax at the beach, and sample local culture and cuisine. Book tours in advance to save time, fill your trip with fun activities, and splash out on one or two unforgettable experiences. Here are some ideas for how to spend two days in Agadir.

Day 1: Sights, Souks, and Sunsets

**Morning:**A city tour takes the hassle out of navigating and means you can fit all of Agadir’s sights into a morning. Visit the hilltop kasbah for an impressive view along the Atlantic coast, stop to see landmarks such as the Royal Palace and the Mohammed V Mosque, and stroll the atmospheric Talbourjt quarter with its historic buildings and traditional cafés. 

**Afternoon:**The lively marketplace of Souk El Had d’Agadir is the place to purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs, as well as sample some of Morocco’s delicious street food. Shoppers can also combine a market tour with a visit to an argan-oil factory, to learn how Morocco’s famous argan oil is produced.

**Night:**A sunset camel ride is the perfect way to end the day. Mount up for a scenic trek along the banks of the Souss River, watch the sunset as you climb through the sand dunes, and look out for flamingos along the riverbank. For the full experience, combine your camel ride with a delicious barbecue dinner at a country ranch.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

**Morning:**Start the day with a romantic hot-air-balloon ride along the coast, watch the sunrise over the Atlas Mountains and Atlantic Ocean, then touch down to enjoy breakfast in a traditional Berber tent. Alternatively, set sail on a morning boat cruise and tuck into breakfast onboard as you glide along the beachfront. 

**Afternoon:**Most travelers come to Agadir for the beaches, so plan to spend the rest of the day soaking up the sun and swimming in the warm Atlantic waters. Adventurous travelers can enjoy a host of fun activities, from Jet Skiing excursions to quad-bike tours (book in advance to avoid disappointment), but if you prefer to relax and unwind, combine a beach break with a visit to a traditional Moroccan hammam. 

**Night:**Celebrate your final evening in Agadir by attending an evening show spotlighting traditional Berber culture. Feast on Moroccan tagine and sip mint tea as you enjoy live music, dancing, and performances by fire-eaters, belly dancers, and snake charmers.

Two days in Tangier gives you time to see the sights, roam the walled medina, and cast your exploring net wider to Morocco’s Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts and mountains. See our tips on how to get the max from 48 hours in this atmospheric port city. 

Day 1: City Sights and Cuisine

**Morning:**Explore Tangier on a guided group walk or private tour including transport, covering highlights such as the medina, casbah, Grand Mosque, and Phoenician tombs—the latter hollowed from a seafront rock. Alternatively, see more in less time on a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour, perhaps disembarking at a medina entrance, the marina, and the Ville Nouvelle to discover its colonial-era boulevards and museums.

**Afternoon:**Indulge your foodie instincts by digging into Tangier’s cuisine. Book a cooking lesson to make staples such as couscous and tagines or bake bread in a traditional communal oven. Or, enjoy a food tour of the medina’s eateries, running goodies such as sweet pastries and mint tea past your palate.

**Evening:**Tangier is extra beautiful come sunset, with its silhouetted palms and glinting white buildings. Ride a camel along the sun-washed sands, or, if you’ve chosen a food tour, time it for late afternoon to end with dinner at a seafront restaurant—the perfect finale to your day.

Day 2: Expand Your Horizons

**Morning:**Set out on a day trip today to see more of Morocco. Venture inland to the blue-painted town of Chefchaouen to experience its cobbled lanes and arty shops. Explore seaside Asilah, whose Portuguese ramparts enclose a blue-and-white medina, or mountainside Tetouan, with its UNESCO World Heritage Site medina.

**Afternoon:**If you didn’t take a day trip earlier, use the time left on your 48-hour hop-on hop-off ticket to explore the scenery near Tangier. Take the coastal route and hop out at the Caves of Hercules sea grottoes and the windswept headland of Cape Spartel, where a lighthouse overlooks the place where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet.

**Evening:**Lock on to Tangier’s brilliant shopping opportunities this evening on a privately guided tour of the shop-filled medina. Aim for a later start and browse for last-minute souvenirs such as lanterns and pottery—just remember to haggle!

Rabat’s small size makes it easy to explore in a day, whether you visit on a day trip from Casablanca or Fez or while passing through as part of a tour of Morocco’s imperial cities. One day is just enough time to explore the old medina, visit the Hassan Tower, and browse the souks. Here’s how. 

Morning: Monuments and Museums

Rabat’s most memorable landmarks can be covered on a half-day city tour, and visiting with a guide means you can learn more about the Moroccan capital. Start by taking in the views from the cliff-top Kasbah of the Udayas, home to the Museum of Oudayas and the French-style Andalusian Gardens. Continue to Hassan Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn how the lone standing minaret was built as part of Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour’s never-finished mosque. Other attractions worth visiting: the royal Mausoleum of Mohammed V; opulent Royal Palace of Rabat; and Chellah, home to ancient Roman ruins and a medieval citadel.

Afternoon: Explore the Medina

The old Medina is Rabat’s most atmospheric district, and it’s best explored on a walking tour. Enter through the grand Bab El Had gate, stop to admire the Grand Mosque and Moulay Slimane Mosque, and spend some time in the souks. Quieter and less touristy than the famous souks of Marrakech or Fez, Rabat’s souks still offer options, with dozens of stalls selling carpets, leather goods, spices, and handicrafts—put your haggling skills to the test to secure a bargain. In late afternoon, take a stroll along the seafront promenade. It’s a picturesque spot to watch the sunset, with views over Rabat Lighthouse.

Night: Discover Moroccan Cuisine

You can’t visit Rabat without sampling some traditional Moroccan cuisine, and the rooftop restaurant of Dar Naji is one of the most renowned spots in the city—book a table in advance. A fun alternative is to take part in a Moroccan cooking class and learn to make typical dishes such as tagine and couscous, before tucking into a homemade dinner. For those who want to party, Rabat has a number of nightclubs, most located in Ville Nouvelle. Be aware though, that many places in Rabat do not serve alcohol—hotel bars are the best place for a drink.

With 300 sunny days a year and a lively beachfront promenade, Agadir is Morocco's top destination for sea and sand. Time-pressed travelers to Marrakech can get a taste for this seaside resort on a day trip. Here's what you need to know before you go.

Group Tours

Those with limited time who are traveling on a budget can catch Agadir's highlights on a group tour to the modern seaside city from Marrakech. Group numbers are limited for a more personal, intimate experience, with plenty of time allotted to see both the Atlantic Coast and the old town of the "Miami of Morocco."

Private Tours

Opting for private day trips to Agadir allows for a more flexible itinerary to explore the sites most important to you, such as the port of Agadir, the local fish market, the medina, Agadir Beach, the 16th-century Kasbah Agadir Oufella, or the Mohamed V Mosque. Those who'd prefer to spend some extra time in the city on their own Agadir excursion can go for a private transfer from Marrakech instead.

Things to Know

• Agadir is located 110 miles (177 kilometers) southeast of Marrakech, a journey of about three hours by road.

• Day trips can last upwards of 10 hours due to the driving distances involved.

• Don't forget to bring swimming gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for Agadir's famous warm weather.

• For those based in Agadir, day tours are available to Marrakech, Taroudant, and the Tiout Oasis.

• Most trips include hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as English-speaking guides.

With just one day in Southern Morocco’s flagship beach resort, you’ll have time to enjoy the beach, but if you plan your itinerary wisely you can also visit a hilltop kasbah, go souvenir shopping in the souk, witness the production of Morocco’s famous argan oil, and take a sunset camel ride in the dunes. Here’s how.

Morning: Explore the City Sights

Many of Agadir’s central sights can be reached on foot, but visiting with a guide offers insight into Morocco’s fascinating history and cultural heritage, and private transport will ensure you don’t waste time in transit. Start with a visit to the 16th-century kasbah, perched on a hilltop just outside of town, for an impressive view along the Atlantic coast. Back in the city, stroll the historic medina and the atmospheric Talbourjt quarter, admire landmarks including the Royal Palace and the Mohammed V Mosque, or perhaps visit one of Agadir’s argan-oil factories—like many Moroccan towns, Agadir is renowned for its production of the oil. 

Afternoon: Sun, Sea, and Souks

A visit to the Souk El Had d’Agadir market is a must for first-time visitors, and exploring with a local guide will help you navigate the language barrier and haggle for the best prices. Arrive in time for lunch and tuck into some traditional Moroccan street food, then browse the stalls for unique souvenirs and handicrafts. Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying Agadir’s sandy beaches, where you can cool off with a swim or take a stroll along the scenic seafront promenade. Adventurous types can take part in a myriad of fun activities such as Jet Skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, or off-road buggy excursions. Be sure to book ahead, especially in the summer months, to avoid disappointment. 

Night: Arabian Nights

Enjoy a Moroccan desert adventure without having to journey all the way to the Sahara desert with an evening camel ride in Agadir. The sand dunes and eucalyptus forests along the banks of the Souss River provide a magnificent backdrop, and you can watch the sunset as you ride a camel through the Agadir Hinterlands. For the full experience, book a tour that includes a barbecue dinner and sample tasty local cuisine as well as traditional Moroccan mint tea.  

 With three days in Tangier, you’ll have the scope to fully explore this buzzing port city—from its palm-flanked boulevards and mazelike medina to its whitewashed Ville Nouvelle district and the parks, coastal viewpoints, and mountain and seaside towns that await nearby. Here are your options for spending three days in Tangier. 

Day 1: Get to Know the City

Spend today familiarizing yourself with Tangier’s sights. Take a walking tour around the spider’s-web-like medina and its casbah, where the former Sultan’s Palace has a museum charting the city’s history. Or take things easier with a private tour that transports you to landmarks such as the Great Mosque, Mendoubia Gardens, and Phoenician tombs—graves dug into a sea-facing rock plateau. Alternatively, take a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour to attractions such as Grand Socco square and the Place des Nations, from which you can take in the Ville Nouvelle’s art nouveau townhouses. Later, slow the pace with a camel ride along the beach or a private medina shopping tour with a guide to help you haggle for souvenirs. Finish with a drink at the legendary Café Hafa—a century-old meeting place perched on balconies overlooking the Mediterranean.

Day 2: Caves, Capes, and Cuisine

Today, use leftover time from your hop-on hop-off ticket—it’s valid for 48 hours—to ride the bus loop around the scenic region on the edge of Tangier. Alight at the oceanside Caves of Hercules, known for an Africa-shaped rock window; visit Cape Spartel to admire the Atlantic-and-Mediterranean panoramas from its French-built lighthouse; and hop off at woodland Perdicaris Park to ride camels. Back at base, switch your attention to Tangier’s gastronomy. Take a cooking lesson to learn how to create Moroccan tagines or couscous, or enjoy a guided food tour, pausing to sample local pastries and mint tea before dinner at a seafront restaurant.

Day 3: Exploring Beyond Tangier

On your last day, discover the blue-washed medina and 15th-century casbah of Chefchaouen, deep in the Rif Mountains; the UNESCO-protected medina of whitewashed Tetouan; or seaside Asilah, with an arty blue-and-white medina. Farther south along the Atlantic coast is Rabat, Morocco’s capital, sometimes overlooked by tourists but full of charm and historical sights. Take a full-day tour—many visit Asilah along the way—to see its pretty medina, whitewashed Kasbah Oudaya, and landmarks such as the 12th-century Hassan Tower.

With a history dating back more than 1,100 years, Fez is Morocco in a nutshell, from its warrenlike medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the mounds of colorful spices in its souks. One day in Fez yields a good overview as you stroll the medina, learn Moroccan cooking, and enjoy a hammam steam bath. Here’s how.

Morning: Medina Magic

Ancient Fez has been the capital of Morocco many a time, and a walking tour of its medina is a journey into a world where ancient crafts and knowledge merge with the hubbub of a modern, developing city. See the 9th-century Kairaouine Mosque, one of the world’s oldest universities, the Andalusian Mosque, and the historic madrassas (Koranic schools) that made Fez a capital of learning. Inhale the stench of tanning leather at the Chouara Tannery and the scent of perfumes in the souks, and discover traditional arts and crafts at the Dar Batha Museum, once a royal palace.

Afternoon: Culinary Culture

For lunch, learn to cook Moroccan food. Start by bargaining for fresh produce and spices at a souk, then watch a demo or get hands-on as you prepare an authentic Moroccan menu. Master the art of couscous, tagines, the sweet and savory pie known as pastilla, or traditional soups, grills, salads, and breads, and wash it all down with lashings of mint tea. If time permits, head out to Art Naji to see some of the city’s finest potters and mosaic makers in action and perhaps pick up a ceramic or two.

Night: Bathing Beauty

With a lineage dating back to Roman times, the classic hammam steam bath is an essential Moroccan ritual. Start your evening off with sheer indulgence as you progress from a hot steam room to a warm bathing room and a cool room for resting, with scrubs, body polishes, and massages along the way. Refreshed and renewed, soak up the sights and scents of the city at night, then feast on Moroccan cuisine at a restaurant in a traditional riad, or courtyard home. Wrap up the night with mint tea and perhaps even a hookah pipe on the rooftop.