Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Morocco
Sidi Ifni’s famous beach pounded by waves and rocky coastal cliffs is the main draw. Visiting the nearby Legzira Arch is also super cool, especially as it’s rarely busy.
Ouarzazate is Morocco’s little Hollywood, a filming hub that’s welcomed everyone from Doris Day to Emilia Clarke. A short drive away is Ait Ben Haddou, an 11th century Kasbah where you might recognize Yunkai from Game of Thrones.
1. Casablanca
Casablanca is often overlooked in favor of Morocco’s desert and kasbah cities but the town has plenty to offer. Its old medina may not have the centuries-old history of Marrakech and Fes but it’s still worth a wander. The most important attraction is the grand Hassan II Mosque which attracts visitors from all over the world.
A stroll to the aristocratic Ain Diab neighbourhood is also recommended as the locals love the area’s parks and swimming pools. The king’s palace is nearby but going inside is forbidden. However, the exterior is a fine example of Mauresque architecture which blends curving Art Deco and Moroccan features like zellige and courtyards.
Shopping is hugely popular in the city and the mammoth Morocco Mall has all manner of luxury goods, food courts, ice-skating and exclusive brands. A walk around the central Quartier Habous district is great for window-shopping as vendors are less pushy.
2. Essaouira
Whether you visit the port city for just a short break or as part of a longer Morocco tour, Essaouira is a relaxing escape. Wander its spice-scented streets and palm-lined avenues, browse its art galleries and relax in some of the country’s best hotels.
One of the most iconic sights in the city is its seafront ramparts. These imposing 18th-century walls were built to protect the old medina from raiders and are dotted with old brass cannons, as well as offering sublime ocean views.
Watch fishermen auction their catch at the port’s wharf, savor seafood grilled on makeshift harborside stalls and stroll along the picturesque Portuguese ramparts, known as Skala du Port. Those with a passion for art will love visiting the Galerie La Kasbah, which showcases outstanding creativity. Its prestigious shows have garnered international attention.
3. Sidi Ifni
For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Sidi Ifni is a hidden gem. Its captivating culture, scenic natural beauty, and historical landmarks will captivate you and take your breath away.
The best things to do in Sidi Ifni include visiting the Legzira Beach, which is famous for its stunning natural sandstone arches carved by the ocean. Another top attraction is the Sidi Ifni Lighthouse, which offers a breathtaking view and fascinating history.
This unique enclave was only returned to Morocco in 1969 and still retains its atmospheric Iberian feel and faded art-deco buildings. Sidi Ifni is a great place to visit any time of the year, but the summer months offer warm, sunny weather perfect for relaxing on the beaches or exploring the city. You can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling.
4. Meknes
Meknes is less renowned than Morocco’s other Imperial Cities – Fez, Rabat and Marrakesh – but it is an architectural wonder in its own right. This one-time sultanate capital features impressive gates, walls and palaces built under 17th-century sultan Moulay Ismail.
The centerpiece of Meknes is Bab el Khemis, a huge gate into the medina district, where you can admire intricate zellige (patterned tile) work and decorative stucco. From here, you can also visit the mausoleum of Ismail – a fearless leader who gave Meknes its imperial status.
The nearby Heri es-Souani buildings once served as the Imperial City’s storage granaries and stables for up to 12,000 horses. The corn chambers, which have high arches, are a remarkable sight. And the Agdal Basin is a huge water basin that’s also worth a look. Combined, these sites make for a full day of sightseeing.
5. Chefchaouen
For a break from the frenetic spirit of Morocco's big cities, Chefchaouen is where to go. Its old medina has a quaint charm, allowing you to get lost among enchanting squares, doors and dead-end alleys.
Indulge in a traditional riad stay in Chefchaouen for an authentic experience, staying inside the medina and relishing Moroccan delicacies from morning to night. Or try out a hammam for a relaxing spa-like experience of cleansing, exfoliation and rejuvenation.
During your visit, head to Place Outa el Hammam to explore the 15th century Kasbah fortress, as well as its ethnographic museum. Alternatively, hike out of the city to the nearby town of Akchour to admire the Cascades d'Akchour waterfall and a natural stone bridge called God's Bridge. A guided day trip to Volubilis is also a popular choice. This ancient Roman town is a feast for the eyes with its dramatic mosaics and robust farming community.
6. Ouarzazate
One of the best things to do in Ouarzazate is visiting Kasbah Tourirt – a stunning ksar that offers great trekking and mountain climbing opportunities. It’s also a popular place for filmmakers because several movies and TV series have been shot here including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Nearby Ait Benhaddou is another must-visit kasbah that’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The impressive earthen clay architecture of this ksar is a marvel to behold and you can walk through the tiny rooms that house local families who are happy to show you around for a small fee.
The Atlas Film Studios outside Ouarzazate is said to be the largest movie studio in the world where you can see the massive sets and props used for films like Lawrence of Arabia, Babel and a lot more. The nearby Fint Oasis is a beautiful oasis with palm groves and a river landscape that provides a lovely contrast to the surrounding desert vistas.
7. Volubilis
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins of Volubilis are one of Morocco’s most impressive archaeological sites. A walk through the Roman town reveals marble columns and beautiful mosaics that have been remarkably well-preserved over the centuries.
Located in the northern foothills of the Zerhoun mountain range, this mighty city was once an important regional capital. Visitors today can explore the impressive remains and admire the best-preserved mosaics in Morocco.
This awe-inspiring archeological site is the perfect stop on longer drives between Casablanca and Fes, or between Chefchaouen and Meknes. It’s also easy to combine with the neighbouring village of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun and visit on a day trip from Meknes or Fez. Alternatively, join a tour with a guide and skip the hassle of organising transport to Volubilis. This group tour from Fez or this private tour from Meknes both include a visit to Volubilis.
8. Ait Benhaddou
Ait Ben Haddou is a Unesco World Heritage Site that has been captured in film in countless movies, from Lawrence of Arabia to Gladiator. The red mudbrick ksar (fortified vilage) is a jaw-dropping sight, and many visitors come here to snap photos of the towers and clay walls.
The village is inhabited by families who make their living selling souvenirs and music for tourists. It’s a quiet and pleasant place to explore, especially in spring or fall when the weather isn’t too hot.
Further up the road is Tamdaght, another crumbling Glaoui fortification. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this village is surrounded by storks' nests. The nearby Mausoleum of Mohammed V is considered a premium example of Moroccan traditional design. Non-Muslims are allowed to view the tomb chamber, provided they cover their heads and shoulders.
9. Rabat
Morocco’s political capital may be short on top-drawer attractions, but its evocative kasbah, a sprawling walled medina and a sleek new district make Rabat a satisfying sojourn. Stroll the Ville Nouvelle’s broad boulevards or hop on a tram to explore its modern art gallery, Musee Mohammed VI. It showcases Moroccan works from the early 20th century onward, including street-style portraitist Hassan Hajjaj and late Fez-born abstract artist Ahmed Yacoubi.
In the rambling old medina, tour a maze of winding alleys and stalls selling everything from hand-woven carpets to herbal remedies. Admire the grand Hassan Tower, a chunky red sandstone minaret from a 12th-century mosque that was meant to be the biggest in the world. Or, pay your respects to Morocco’s last sultan at the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. His ornate marble shrine is guarded by fez-topped royal guards.
10. Marrakesh
Marrakech’s central square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, is a hive of activity. Listen to snake charmers play their flutes and smell the spices of street food. It’s a feast for the senses – especially when it’s lit up at night.
Morocco’s cuisine is a fusion of Arabic, Berber, Moorish, European and Mediterranean African cultures. Eat like a local and enjoy a mint tea at one of the city’s cute cafes.
Riads are Moroccan palaces with inner courtyards, and you can find some of the best in Marrakech. You’ll also find the grand ruins of Al-Mansour’s former palace. It’s an architectural marvel even in its ruined state. The mighty Koutoubia Mosque is another landmark, towering over the southwest part of the Medina.
