The Best Places to Visit in Morocco
The Best Places to Visit in Morocco are more than just destinations—they are gateways to history, culture, and adventure. From the lively souks of Marrakech and the spiritual heart of Fes to the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen, each city tells its own story. Travelers seeking natural wonders can journey across the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert or trek the majestic Atlas Mountains. Coastal gems like Essaouira and cosmopolitan Casablanca add a modern contrast, while Merzouga offers an authentic desert escape. The historic cities of Morocco are so well preserved that visiting them can feel like stepping back in time. Beyond their rich cultural heritage, Morocco also offers modern cities, year-round sunshine, and stunning Atlantic beaches or hidden Mediterranean coves. For those willing to venture further, the country’s wilderness reveals remarkable contrasts—from vast arid deserts to snow-capped peaks.
The historic cities of Morocco are so well preserved that visiting them can feel like stepping back in time. Travelers come not only for the country’s rich cultural heritage but also for its modern cities, year-round sunshine, and stunning Atlantic beaches or hidden Mediterranean coves. For those willing to venture further, Morocco’s wilderness offers remarkable contrasts—from vast arid deserts to snow-capped mountain peaks.
Located just a short distance from Europe, Morocco has heavily invested in modern transportation. Domestic flights, high-speed rail, upgraded roads, and luxury coaches make traveling across the country easier and more comfortable than ever.
These top destinations in Morocco showcase a dazzling variety of experiences, allowing you to handpick attractions and activities to create a personalized itinerary that perfectly matches your interests.
1. Marrakesh
Best for romance
Marrakesh is one of Morocco’s must-visit cities, where all your senses come alive. Experience the city’s charm in the rosy hues of the medina or the fragrant scent of citrus trees in season. Wander past horse-drawn carriages into Djemaa el-Fna, alive with performers and street food vendors. Discover the lantern-lit alleys of the souqs, the walled serenity of Jardin Majorelle, flamboyant historic palaces, and the vibrant art scene in the Ville Nouvelle.
Indulge in a stay at one of the Red City’s enchanting riads where every detail is thoughtfully curated and warm hospitality awaits. Marrakesh also boasts some of Morocco’s finest spas and hammams. Watch the sunset over the Atlas Mountains from the rooftop terrace at El Fenn, and enjoy cozy candlelit dinners in this gastronomic city, where international chefs bring flavors from Australia to Japan.
Planning tip: For a touch of desert romance, the Agafay Desert and its luxury glamping options are just a short drive from Marrakesh—perfect for a magical night under the stars.
2. Aït Ben Haddou
Best for blockbuster movie scenes
Travel along the historic trading route from Marrakesh to the Sahara, and you’ll arrive in sun-baked Ouarzazate. The region is home to the majestic Aït Ben Haddou, an 11th-century mud-brick ksar (fortified village) and one of Morocco’s most iconic and well-preserved ancient sites. Still inhabited today and protected by UNESCO, it gained worldwide fame as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones.
Known as “Ouallywood,” Ouarzazate is Morocco’s version of Hollywood, with Atlas Film Corporation Studios serving as the backdrop for major films and shows such as Gladiator, Prison Break, and Kingdom of Heaven.
Planning tip: Experience Aït Ben Haddou at sunrise or sunset for the most magical light. Wander through the village to fully appreciate the impressive scale and history of this remarkable site.
3. Taghazout Bay
Best for chill beach vibes
The Atlantic coast from Essaouira to Sidi Ifni boasts the highest concentration of Morocco’s surfing beaches. At its center lies the charming village of Taghazout, a fishing community with painted steps, colorful houses, and a lively mix of cafes, grills, and surf shops. Alongside surfing, yoga has become a big draw, with sunrise and sunset rooftop classes setting the pace of the day.
Even if surfing isn’t your thing, Taghazout Bay—with its 5km (3 miles) of sandy shoreline—radiates year-round summer vibes. Its diverse accommodations, from luxury resorts to bohemian homestays, make it one of Morocco’s top destinations for a beach holiday.
Planning tip: Visit in January or February to watch world-class surfers tackle Taghazout’s famous wave, Anchor Point. For quieter, warmer conditions, September is ideal for mellow waves and a more relaxed atmosphere.
4. Anti-Atlas Mountains
Best for hiking and outdoor adventures
The Anti-Atlas are Morocco’s lesser-explored mountains, offering sweeping plateaus, hidden valleys, and soaring peaks. Adventurous travelers can hike scenic trails, explore deserted archaeological sites, and engage with the Amazigh people, who welcome visitors with warmth and generosity.
The Ameln Valley features a range of short hikes and climbing routes, including the 2,359m (7,740ft) Jebel Lkest—jebel meaning “mountain”—and Tafraoute’s striking granite landscapes, home to landmarks like Le Châpeau de Napoléon (Napoleon’s Hat) and the Pierres Bleues (Painted Rocks). Winding mountain roads and passes lead to the date-palm-filled Aït Mansour Gorges, perfect for driving or cycling adventures.
For more experienced hikers, the 3,305m (10,843ft) Jebel Siroua offers longer treks, including an active volcano, ideal for multi-day wild camping and immersive mountain exploration.
5. Sahara Desert
Best for getting away from it all
The drive to the Sahara may be long, but once you reach the edge of the world’s largest hot desert, the paved roads end and sand stretches endlessly ahead. Whether you venture further by 4WD or ride a camel into the dunes, the vast emptiness of the Moroccan Sahara offers an unforgettable experience. Visiting this iconic desert is a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the serenity of nowhere. With a knowledgeable guide, the desert comes alive, especially at night when the star-filled sky shines brilliantly, free from light pollution.
Planning tip: Choose a camp away from the crowds. Erg Chigaga boasts some of Morocco’s tallest sand dunes and the most secluded desert accommodations.
6. Essaouira
Best for a one-stop city and beach vacation
If you could visit only one destination in Morocco, Essaouira is a top choice. This laid-back city sits on the Atlantic coast and features a sandy beach, watersport centers, a working fishing port, and a bustling fish market offering fresh seafood straight off the boat.
At its historic center, the pedestrianized medina is filled with vendors selling ceramics and traditional riads for overnight stays. Many riads have been modernized to appeal to the artsy crowd drawn to the annual Gnaoua and World Music Festival. Art galleries and historic ramparts sit alongside contemporary restaurants, cocktail bars, and boutique shops.
Planning tip: Essaouira is famous for its wind, making it one of Morocco’s best spots for kitesurfing. If the wind is too strong for the beach, nearby countryside retreats often offer pool day passes to non-guests.
7. Fez
Best for history buffs
Fez, Morocco’s oldest city, proudly preserves its historical roots. Its sprawling medieval medina is a labyrinth of workshops, apothecaries, and bustling stalls, making it almost certain that visitors will get delightfully lost. The Kairaouine Mosque and University, home to the world’s oldest library, remains a revered center for spiritual and academic study.
Planning tip: While exploring Fez, consider a side trip to the imperial city of Meknes and the remarkably preserved Roman ruins at Volubilis for a deeper dive into Morocco’s rich history.
8. Tangier
Best for a sense of location
The ferry from Spain to Tangier takes just one hour, highlighting Morocco’s close proximity to Europe. Known as the White City for its iconic whitewashed buildings, Tangier buzzes with an art scene, tapas restaurants, and vibrant café culture—Café Hafa offers some of the best ocean views. Spanish remains widely spoken, enhancing the city’s unique Euro-Afro vibe. Open plazas like Grand Socco and beautiful Mediterranean beaches make Tangier an ideal first stop for travelers exploring Morocco.
Planning tip: Pair your city visit with excursions to the Grottes d’Hercule and Cape Spartel’s lighthouse and rugged coastline. Tangier is also a convenient base for visiting the famously blue city of Chefchaouen and the Spanish-influenced coastal town of Asilah. Hop on Al Boraq, Morocco’s high-speed train, and reach the capital city of Rabat in just an hour and a half.
