Top 10 Places to Visit in Morocco: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Morocco is a country where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. From the labyrinthine medinas of imperial cities to the endless golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, the best places to visit in Morocco offer experiences you won't find anywhere else on Earth. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, history, or simply stunning scenery, this North African kingdom delivers on every front.
This comprehensive guide covers the top 10 places to visit in Morocco, helping you plan an unforgettable journey through one of the world's most captivating destinations.
1. Marrakech – The Red City
No list of places to visit in Morocco is complete without Marrakech. Known as the Red City for its distinctive terracotta buildings, Marrakech is Morocco's most famous destination and the gateway to countless adventures.
What Makes Marrakech Unmissable
- Jemaa el-Fnaa Square – The heart of Marrakech transforms from a daytime market into a nightly carnival of food stalls, musicians, and storytellers
- Bahia Palace – A stunning 19th-century palace showcasing the finest of Moroccan craftsmanship
- Majorelle Garden – The iconic blue garden once owned by Yves Saint Laurent
- The Medina – A UNESCO World Heritage site with endless souks selling everything from spices to handcrafted leather goods
Note: Visit the souks early morning for a less crowded experience and better bargaining opportunities.
Best Time to Visit | Temperature | Crowds
March-May | 20-28°C | Moderate
September-November | 22-30°C | Moderate
June-August | 35-45°C | Lower
2. Fes – The Cultural Capital
Fes is Morocco's spiritual and intellectual heart. Home to the world's oldest university (University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD), Fes offers an authentic glimpse into medieval Morocco that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Fes Highlights
- Fes el-Bali – The largest car-free urban zone in the world with over 9,000 winding alleys
- Chouara Tannery – Watch leather being dyed using traditional methods dating back to the 11th century
- Bou Inania Madrasa – A masterpiece of Marinid architecture
- Mellah – The historic Jewish quarter with its distinctive balconied houses
Fes is less touristy than Marrakech, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more authentic Moroccan experience.
3. Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl
Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is one of the most photogenic places to visit in Morocco. Every building, alley, and staircase is painted in mesmerizing shades of blue, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
Why Chefchaouen is Special
- Photography Paradise – Every corner offers an Instagram-worthy shot
- Relaxed Atmosphere – Slower pace than Morocco's larger cities
- Mountain Setting – Excellent hiking opportunities in the surrounding Rif Mountains
- Local Crafts – Known for woven blankets and goat cheese
The blue color has various origin stories—some say it was introduced by Jewish refugees in the 1930s to symbolize the sky and heaven, while others claim it keeps mosquitoes away.
4. Merzouga & the Sahara Desert
A trip to Morocco isn't complete without experiencing the Sahara Desert. Merzouga, located at the edge of Erg Chebbi, offers access to some of Morocco's most spectacular sand dunes, reaching heights of up to 150 meters.
Desert Experiences
- Camel Trekking – The classic way to reach desert camps at sunset
- Overnight Camp – Sleep under millions of stars in a traditional Berber camp
- Sunrise Over the Dunes – A life-changing moment as golden light transforms the landscape
- Sandboarding – For adventure seekers looking for thrills
Note: Desert temperatures vary dramatically—scorching hot during summer days and surprisingly cold at night. Pack layers.
5. Essaouira – The Coastal Escape
After the intensity of Morocco's inland cities, Essaouira offers a refreshing coastal retreat. This windy Atlantic port city has a laid-back vibe, fresh seafood, and a fascinating history as a former Portuguese stronghold.
Essaouira Attractions
- Ramparts & Medina – UNESCO-listed fortifications with ocean views
- Fishing Port – Watch the daily catch come in and eat at harborside grills
- Beaches – Popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing
- Art Galleries – A thriving arts scene with numerous galleries and workshops
Essaouira is just 2.5 hours from Marrakech, making it an easy day trip or overnight excursion.
6. Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou
Known as the "Gateway to the Sahara," Ouarzazate sits at the crossroads of the Atlas Mountains and the desert. Nearby Ait Ben Haddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco's most iconic landmarks.
Why Visit This Region
- Ait Ben Haddou – An ancient fortified village (ksar) that has appeared in Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and Lawrence of Arabia
- Atlas Film Studios – One of the world's largest film studios where countless Hollywood productions have been filmed
- Kasbah Taourirt – A stunning example of traditional Moroccan mud-brick architecture
- Rose Valley – Visit in spring to see the valley blanketed in pink roses
Famous Films Shot Here
Game of Thrones
Gladiator
Lawrence of Arabia
The Mummy
Kingdom of Heaven
7. The Atlas Mountains
The Atlas Mountains stretch across Morocco, offering dramatic scenery and adventure opportunities year-round. From the High Atlas near Marrakech to the Anti-Atlas in the south, these mountains are home to Berber villages, stunning valleys, and North Africa's highest peak.
Atlas Mountain Experiences
- Toubkal National Park – Trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal (4,167m), North Africa's highest mountain
- Imlil Valley – A charming Berber village serving as the gateway to Toubkal
- Ourika Valley – An easy day trip from Marrakech with waterfalls and traditional villages
- Ouzoud Falls – Morocco's most spectacular waterfalls at 110 meters high
The mountains offer a cool escape from summer heat and skiing opportunities in winter.
8. Casablanca – The Modern Metropolis
Morocco's largest city and economic hub, Casablanca, is often overlooked by tourists but deserves attention for its unique blend of art deco architecture and modern Moroccan life.
Casablanca Must-Sees
- Hassan II Mosque – The third-largest mosque in the world with a stunning oceanfront location (one of few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims)
- Corniche – The beachfront promenade lined with restaurants and cafés
- Art Deco District – Beautiful early 20th-century architecture in the downtown area
- Morocco Mall – One of Africa's largest shopping centers
Note: Casablanca is Morocco's main international airport hub, making it an ideal first or last stop.
9. Tangier – Where Africa Meets Europe
Sitting at the northern tip of Morocco where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, Tangier has a storied history as an international zone that attracted writers, artists, and spies. Today, it's experiencing a renaissance.
Tangier Highlights
- Kasbah Museum – Housed in a former sultan's palace with panoramic views
- Petit Socco – The atmospheric old town square
- Cape Spartel – Where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet
- Hercules Cave – A sea cave with an opening shaped like Africa
- Day Trips to Spain – Ferries to Tarifa take just 35 minutes
Tangier is the gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Spain.
10. Agadir & the Southern Coast
For travelers seeking sun, sand, and relaxation, Agadir offers Morocco's most developed beach resort experience. The modern city was rebuilt after a devastating 1960 earthquake and now features a long sandy beach and year-round sunshine.
Southern Morocco Attractions
- Agadir Beach – A 10km stretch of golden sand with calm waters
- Souss-Massa National Park – Home to endangered bald ibis and other wildlife
- Paradise Valley – A hidden oasis in the Atlas foothills
- Taghazout – A laid-back surf village just north of Agadir
Planning Your Morocco Itinerary
With so many incredible places to visit in Morocco, planning your route is essential. Here are suggested itineraries:
7-Day Highlights
- Days 1-2: Marrakech
- Day 3: Atlas Mountains or Essaouira day trip
- Days 4-5: Desert tour via Ouarzazate to Merzouga
- Days 6-7: Return via Ait Ben Haddou, end in Marrakech
10-14 Day Grand Tour
- Days 1-3: Marrakech
- Days 4-5: Desert tour to Merzouga
- Day 6: Travel to Fes
- Days 7-8: Fes
- Day 9: Chefchaouen
- Day 10: Tangier or return south
Best Time to Visit Morocco
Season | Weather | Best For
Spring (Mar-May) | Mild, occasional rain | Hiking, sightseeing
Summer (Jun-Aug) | Hot inland, pleasant coast | Beach destinations
Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Warm, dry | Desert trips, general travel
Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cool, rain possible | Skiing, lower prices
Final Thoughts
Morocco offers an extraordinary diversity of experiences within a relatively compact country. From the medieval maze of Fes to the infinite sands of the Sahara, from the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the crashing waves of Essaouira, the places to visit in Morocco will leave lasting memories.
The key to a successful Morocco trip is balancing famous highlights with time to get lost in medinas, share mint tea with locals, and let the country's magic unfold naturally. Whether you have one week or one month, Morocco rewards curious travelers with experiences that simply cannot be found elsewhere.
Start planning your Moroccan adventure today—this ancient kingdom is waiting to be discovered.
