updated on Aug 16, 2024.
If you are a first-timer to Morocco, then be sure to welcome yourself to a land of exotic beauty. The list of Best places to visit in Morocco seems to get longer and longer the more you stay there. It typically takes ten days to explore the country but if you lack time, you might want to get going as soon as you land. There are so many places to go in Morocco and so many things to do in Morocco that you'll literally wonder how time flew.
When should you visit Morocco?
I would suggest that the best time is between September to late October or Spring (April to May). However, you might also want to skip the harsh cold during the Christmas months and head to this dreamland where there is a brilliant fusion of traditions and modern culture.
But wait! Why Should you visit Morocco?
The typical Marinid Architecture will steal your heart at first glance. Those intricate designs and those breathtaking Madrassas will make you want to capture every single detail. However, the shopper within you will be begging you to go to the aromatic spice markets or souks. As you enter the medinas of Morocco, the colorfully chaotic ambiance will make you feel like you have landed in a different world altogether. Though the thrill-seeking adventurer within you will be forcing you to make an exit and go straight to the Saharas for a blissful Camel-ride. While the foodie within you will be excited to smell the rich aroma of tagine and spices. Traveling Morocco feels like walking through those imageries of Persian sceneries and magical genies that we all read in the Arabian nights. Was that enough? If not, then read on because there is so much more!
Some Travel Tips for First-Timers in Morocco:
- About Shopping: Get ready to haggle while you shop as the prices are really high and it would be quite insane to pay what they ask.
- About Safety and Clothing for Women: No matter what people say, Morocco IS SAFE for women. All you have to do is keep yourself covered as much as possible or else you might invite unnecessary attention and stick out like a sore thumb. A basic rule of thumb is to keep your legs and shoulder covered.
- About Cash: Keep your cash ready or else you might have to spend an unnecessary amount of time finding the ATMs and some shopkeepers might not accept credit cards.
- About Fridays: Friday is a holy day for Muslims. So, the major touristy spots are going to be open but shops would be closed. The Souqks would be quieter. So plan accordingly.
- About Currency: Dirham or DH would be available for exchange at the airport or else you can visit banks in major cities to get your currency converted. ($1 = 3.67 DH)
- About Food: Food in Morocco is excellent. You will LOVE the Tagine, the couscous, the mint tea, and the fresh fruits. There is a LOT to eat. So get ready to carry your stretchy pants.
- About Mosques: Besides few mosques (mentioned below), there are mosques that don't allow non-muslims and I really don't think you would want to travel all the way to just see the mosque from a distance.
- About Over-Friendly People and Scams: There might be people smiling at you or offering you to apply henna on your hand (some might even grab your hand and start applying henna). They are gonna charge a LOT from you later. So beware of that.
Here are the Best Places to Visit in Morocco
#1. Marrakesh or Marrakech
This former Imperial City in Western Morocco is what travelers have in there mind while they are visiting Morocco for the first time.
Stay in a Traditional Riad
Riad? It's a traditional house built around a courtyard and feels like a boutique hotel. When you stay in a riad it will be easy for you to access the best things and places to visit in Marrakesh. Moreover, you will not have to go for taxis, as you can just step outside and explore.
Lose yourself in the cobblestones alleys of the Jema el-Fna square
It is a true delight to walk along those cobblestone alleys and literally forget about time. Shop for shimmering Jewelleries, traditional textiles, flawless pottery. Witness the lively chaos and soak in the exuberant energy of the place.
Soak in the Traditional Architecture at Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is a really beautiful place. The architecture, the ornate and stunning ceiling paintings, the incredible pearly white marbled Courtyard with vivid details will make you thank yourself for taking this incredible trip to Morocco.
Explore Tranquility at Jardin Majorelle
A Peaceful and Colorful garden that will offer you a pleasant experience. Go there and fall in love with the natural colors, the beautiful Cacti, the Berber Museum, take stunning Instagrammable Pictures, sit under the bamboo tree and listen to the birds and let the luxurious nature comfort you.
Treat yourself to a Hearty Tagine Cooked Meal
With the meat and Vegan Option, tagine is served in a cone-shaped earthen dish which is used to cook it over charcoal.
#2. Casablanca
After Marrakesh, it's time to go to the commercial hub of west Morocco - Casablanca. The exotic blend of Moorish architecture and European art deco is spell-binding.
Marvel the Engineering & Artistry at the Hassan II Mosque
Feel the refreshing sea breeze and explore this extravagant and peaceful Mosque. Take an English tour guide who will help you know the history and background of the mosque. It is the largest mosque in Africa and the Third largest mosque in the world. Also, it is the only Mosque that permits entry to Non-Muslims. The immense doors will make you feel like a tiny ant.
Watch the Fountain show at Square of Mohammed V
At the heart of Casablanca, this large square with fountains and pigeons will give your children a chance to play around. You might even skip this place if you are in a rush and would want to visit more beautiful Morroco tourist places.
#3. Fes
Having been the Capital of Morocco for over 400 years, this place has that typical old and traditional vibe which you wouldn't want to miss on your trip to Morocco.
Taste the Beautiful Slice of Moroccan history at Mederssa El Bouanania
Go for a tour guide and explore the magical Moroccan history. The peaceful Mederssa with gorgeous designs and patterns will surely woo you.
Capture the Rooftop view From Al Attarine Madrasa
Walking down the medina of Fes, you would want to visit this beautiful place with fascinating architecture.
Travel Back in Time as you Enter through the Bab Bou Jeloud or Blue Gate
The Blue Gate takes you to the Old Medina in Fes and you will literally marvel at the fusion of modernity and medieval times.
#4. Tangier
The beautiful Moroccan port city of Tangier on Strait of Gibraltar between Mediterranean and Atlantic sea is a sort of melting point for the Orient and the Occident.
Expose yourself to the riot of colors and smells as you stroll down Marché Central
You will find traders selling fruits, spices, meats and all kinds of goods. Watch how the busy life unfolds amidst trading and haggling in this bustling market.
Learn some history between America and Morocco at the Tangier American Legation Museum
This beautiful museum will surely be one of the prettiest places to visit in Morocco.
Capture Stunning views from Cape Spartel
Have a Picnic or just take some stunning photographs at a place where the Mediterranean sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet.
Escape the Heat and Have Fun at Hercules Caves
The beautiful sea-side opening mimics the Map of Africa and it is a really cool place to hang out with your family.
#5. Rabat
The Captial city of Rabat will attract you for its beaches and museums. It is one of the most popular Morroco tourist destination and something that you just can't miss.
Impress your Senses at the breath-taking Hassan Tower
Bustling with tourists at all points of time, Hasan Tower is surely the best place to visit in Rabat.
Walk down the narrow alleys in Kasbah of the Udayas
The vibrant blue and white-washed building will impress your imagination and the optical illusions of the Kasbah corner will thrill you. It's like a pretty little town on its own. Beautifully preserved this old fort is where you get to meet the local families and interact with them.
Escape the Touristy crowd and Noise of the city at Chellah or Shalla
Quite far from the city center, this place will give you a feel of a medieval Roman city. Climb the ruins, know the history and skip the city crowd here.
#6. Meknes
Another Port city dotted with Madrasas, Museums and age-old architecture just had to be on my list of best places to visit in Morocco.
Marvel the Brilliant Almohad Architecture at Bab Mansour Laleuj
This historical place and this grand impressive gate open into the imperial city of Meknes.
Expect the unexpected at Lahdim Square
Lively place filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Shop for souvenirs, learn the Meknès city history and take a try at the local cuisine.
Take a Long walk at Royal Stables
There was a time when this place used to have 12000 horses with a separate groom, slave and cubby for each of them. The nice scenic ambiance will take you to a whole new level when you go on a guided tour.
#7. Asilah
From walled covered in art murals to sandy beaches, Asilah is a popular tourist destination in Morocco. Attend the popular art festival - only if you visit in August.
Watch the gorgeous Sunset over Krikia
A historical landmark in Morocco that offers a splendid view of the Sunset.
Go Surfing on the Clean Waters of Paradise Beach
The clean beach and the tall waves will make you want to go surfing. Enjoy the charming Sun and take a respite from busy city life.
#8. Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is all you will hear from the time you land in Morocco. Also called the 'Blue City', it is something that Instagrammers can't get enough off. Bustling with disarrayed markets and home to homeless cats best mint teas in Morocco, here is all that you should do in Chefchaouen.
Look for Instagram worthy photos as you walk down the narrow Medinas
The azure blue walls will give you a bouquet of opportunities to shoot some of the most beautiful selfies and photos for your Instagram. Go to the Plaza Outa El Hammam and beat the crowd.
Watch the flaming Sunset over the Blue City at the Mosque Bouzafar
A bit of a hike from the East gate of Medina welcomes you to Mosque Bouzafar that offers extraordinary aerial views of the blue city. Wait for the Sunset and capture gorgeous views of the vivid sun setting over this brilliant blue city.
#9. Sahara Desert
Probably the first place to visit in Morocco if you are a thrill-seeker like me, Sahara Dessert is something that will stay with you even when you are back in your country.
Try the Camel Safari
If you have read about exploring the Sahara Desert, you have definitely read about camel Safari. Traveling on this slow creature is thrilling and exciting but make sure there is enough padding on the camels back or else it might get really uncomfortable on the way.
Take a Sunbath at Merzouga
As the Sun goes up the Berber men make holes in the sand dunes and offer the visitors to take sunbath for quite some time.
Go for Sand Skiing
Grab your Sandboard and go sand skiing on the vast stretches of this glistening golden desert.
Take a While to Gaze at the Stars
If you can go for stargazing, it's great, but if you can't then just step out of your hotel room or camp and catch a view of the gorgeous starry night. The sea of stars in the backdrop of deafening silence will make a place in your heart.
#10. High Atlas
"Idraren Draren" or Mountains of Mountains as the Berbers say, High Atlas is the true gem of Morocco tourist attractions. Best visited during the warmer months, this place is what hikers dream about. Running across 1000m, High Atlas is surely one of the best places to visit in Morocco.
Grab your hiking boots and go hiking in the Toubkal National Park
The crisp air will give you a respite from the heat. Hike to the highest mountain in North Africa - the poignant snow-capped Jebel Toubkal at the heart of the national park.
So, these were the list of Best places to visit in Morocco and the Best things to do in Morocco according to me. Hopefully, you liked this.
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