5 Must-See Cities to Visit in Morocco
A land of contrasts, Morocco offers both the most stunning desert landscapes and vast stretches of white sandy beaches.
A land of contrasts, Morocco offers both the most stunning desert landscapes and vast stretches of white sandy beaches. Whether riding a camel or catching waves on a surfboard, you can spend unforgettable vacations blending adventure and culture. Here's our selection of the most beautiful cities to visit during a stay in Morocco.
Marrakech
Even if you don't love big cities, you absolutely must visit Marrakech on a trip to Morocco! This red fortified city concentrates the best of Morocco: stunning architecture, living traditions, vibrant culture, and a festive atmosphere. Marrakech is brimming with magnificent historical buildings as well as modern gardens, such as the Palmerie or the Majorelle Garden. Above all, don't miss the opportunity to spend an evening at Jemaa el Fna square: though touristy, it's the best place in Morocco to discover local culture through the souks, dance performances, storytellers, and snake charmers...
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is undoubtedly one of Morocco's most beautiful cities and one of our personal favorites. It's nicknamed the blue city and you'll quickly understand why: in stark contrast to Marrakech, this charming small town displays shades of blue and white that perfectly reflect the colors of the sky and neighboring sea. Small in size, Chefchaouen has preserved, despite its tourist appeal, all of its authenticity: in the streets, women wash clothes by hand, artisans weave carpets... It's an ideal spot to pick up some souvenirs and immerse yourself in a world of blue, which is also incredibly photogenic.
Fès
A city of artisans, Fès is a must-visit destination in Morocco. It's one of the country's most beautiful imperial cities and is moreover listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its old town, dating back to the 8th century, houses what is arguably Morocco's most stunning medina, with fortified dwellings, souks, mosques, and medersas. Fès is especially renowned for its hammams, artisan workshops, communal ovens, and open-air tanneries. It's a true spectacle of colors and craftsmanship unfolding in the heart of an authentic and charming city.
Aït Ben Haddou
History enthusiasts absolutely must visit the fortified city of Aït Ben Haddou, near Ouarzazate. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this immense Moroccan kasbah in red and ochre tones offers settings worthy of fairy tales. In fact, Aït Ben Haddou has served as a filming location for major films, including Gladiator and even the famous series Game of Thrones ! Step back in time and imagine yourself alongside your favorite characters during this unique visit!
Essaouira
By the sea, there's nothing quite like the city of Essaouira for relaxation, water sports, and enjoying a charming and unique atmosphere. Essaouira is a favorite retreat for Moroccans, but the city is far more than a renowned beach resort. Its fortified port, where hundreds of fishing boats await departure, is moreover listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Essaouira's medina is known for its dazzling white, reminiscent of sea spray. In fact, Essaouira is renowned for its exceptional sunshine rate, as well as its strong coastal winds that make it a prime destination for surfing and kitesurfing. Stroll along its fine sandy beach in the evening to admire one of the most beautiful sunsets of your life!
Frequently asked questions
The 5 must-see cities in Morocco are: Marrakech for its architecture and Jemaa el Fna square, Chefchaouen the blue city, Fès for its medinas and tanneries, Aït Ben Haddou for its UNESCO-listed kasbah, and Essaouira for its beaches and seaside atmosphere.
The best time to visit Morocco is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when temperatures are mild. Summer can be very hot, especially in inland cities like Marrakech and Fès.
Chefchaouen is nicknamed the blue city because of its streets and facades painted in various shades of blue and white. This color tradition dates back several centuries and creates a unique, highly photogenic setting.
Yes! The kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has served as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood productions, including the film Gladiator and the famous series Game of Thrones, thanks to its stunning red and ochre earthen architecture.
Absolutely! Essaouira is renowned for its strong coastal winds and exceptional sunshine, making it a prime spot for surfing and kitesurfing. Schools and equipment rental shops are available on-site for all skill levels.
Yes, it's entirely possible to combine these 5 cities during one trip to Morocco. A circuit of approximately 10 to 14 days allows you to comfortably visit Marrakech, Essaouira, Aït Ben Haddou, Fès, and Chefchaouen using bus, train, or car rental connections.
