The Best Places to Include in Your Morocco Itinerary
Introduction
Morocco is a country of extraordinary contrasts. In a single trip, you can wander through centuries-old medinas, hike among mountain villages, relax on Atlantic beaches, and spend the night beneath the stars of the Sahara Desert.
With so many incredible destinations to choose from, planning a Morocco itinerary can feel overwhelming. Whether you are visiting for a week or several weeks, focusing on a selection of key regions will allow you to experience the country's diversity without rushing.
Here are the most important highlights of Morocco and why each deserves a place on your travel itinerary.
Marrakech: The Heartbeat of Morocco
No visit to Morocco is complete without experiencing Marrakech.
Known as the Red City, Marrakech combines history, culture, and energy like nowhere else in the country. The famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square comes alive every evening with storytellers, musicians, food stalls, and performers.
Top Attractions
- Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
- Koutoubia Mosque
- Bahia Palace
- Majorelle Garden
- Secret Garden
- Traditional hammams
Local Expert Tip
Stay inside a traditional riad in the medina for the most authentic experience.
Chefchaouen: Morocco's Blue Pearl
Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is one of Morocco's most photogenic destinations.
Its blue-painted streets, peaceful atmosphere, and mountain backdrop attract photographers, hikers, and travelers seeking a slower pace.
Best Experiences
- Explore the blue medina
- Visit the Spanish Mosque viewpoint
- Hike in the Rif Mountains
- Shop for local handicrafts
Fes and Meknes: Morocco's Imperial Heritage
Fes and Meknes offer a journey into Morocco's rich history.
Why Visit Fes?
Fes is home to one of the world's largest car-free urban areas and one of the oldest universities on Earth.
Highlights include:
- Al Quaraouiyine University
- Chouara Tanneries
- Historic medina
- Traditional artisan workshops
Why Visit Meknes?
Often overlooked, Meknes offers magnificent gates, royal architecture, and fewer crowds than other imperial cities.
Must-see attractions:
- Bab Mansour
- Royal Granaries
- Moulay Ismail Mausoleum
Casablanca: Morocco's Modern Metropolis
While often used as an arrival point, Casablanca is worth exploring.
Main Attraction
The spectacular Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and sits dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean.
Best For
- Architecture
- Modern Morocco
- Coastal views
- Short city breaks
Essaouira and the Atlantic Coast
Essaouira offers a refreshing contrast to Morocco's inland cities.
The ocean breeze, historic walls, and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the country's most enjoyable coastal destinations.
Highlights
- Skala ramparts
- Fishing harbor
- Long sandy beach
- Seafood restaurants
- Kitesurfing and windsurfing
Local Expert Tip
Essaouira is an excellent addition after Marrakech, offering relaxation before or after a desert adventure.
The High Atlas Mountains
The High Atlas Mountains reveal a completely different side of Morocco.
Traditional Amazigh (Berber) villages cling to steep mountainsides, while trails lead through valleys, terraces, and dramatic peaks.
Best Experiences
- Trekking from Imlil
- Visiting mountain villages
- Exploring Toubkal National Park
- Meeting local families
- Enjoying traditional mint tea
Ideal For
- Nature lovers
- Hikers
- Photographers
- Cultural travelers
The Sahara Desert: Morocco's Ultimate Adventure
For many travelers, the Sahara Desert becomes the highlight of their Morocco journey.
Towering sand dunes, endless horizons, and unforgettable sunsets create one of North Africa's most iconic landscapes.
Best Desert Experiences
- Camel trekking
- Luxury desert camps
- Stargazing
- Sandboarding
- 4x4 desert excursions
- Nomadic cultural encounters
Erg Chebbi vs Erg Chigaga
Erg Chebbi
- Easier access
- Higher tourist infrastructure
- Suitable for shorter trips
Erg Chigaga
- More remote
- Less crowded
- Ideal for adventurous travelers
- Accessible via M'Hamid and off-road tracks
Local Expert Tip
For a truly authentic Sahara experience, spend at least two nights in the desert rather than a quick overnight excursion.
How Many Days Do You Need in Morocco?
7 Days
- Marrakech
- Atlas Mountains
- Sahara Desert
10 Days
- Marrakech
- Atlas Mountains
- Sahara
- Fes
14 Days
- Casablanca
- Chefchaouen
- Fes
- Sahara
- Atlas Mountains
- Marrakech
- Essaouira