Travel Morocco: 7 Towns That Should Make Your Itinerary
Morocco is having a moment in the travel spotlight, but the ever-iconic city of Casablanca is far from the only destination that should make your trip itinerary. This North African gem is a masterclass in contrasts: both ancient and modern, desert and coastal, calm and chaotic. If you’re only seeing one facet of this incredible country, you are doing the culture and yourself a disservice.
Considering a Moroccan adventure? Be sure to include at least a few of these top towns and cities I personally recommend to my clients looking for an unforgettable journey.
Looking for a Lux Moroccan Escape
1. Marrakech
The Inland Wonder That Will Steal Your Heart
Marrakech is a sensory delight, a true kaleidoscope of color, sound, and scent. Greeted by the the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square pulses with energy day and night—snake charmers, storytellers, sizzling food stalls. Wander through the medina and lose yourself in its maze-like souks, where handcrafted leather, lanterns, and spices spill from every corner.
For luxury travelers, the city delivers in spades. Think: opulent riads, rooftop cocktails with Atlas Mountain views, and hammams that redefine relaxation. My clients rave about private dining experiences in restored palaces or garden courtyards—experiences you simply can’t replicate elsewhere.
Things to See/Do:
- Wander through the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, alive with snake charmers, street food, and performers.
- Visit the stunning Majorelle Garden and the adjacent Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
- Explore the historic Bahia Palace with its intricate tile work and tranquil courtyards.
Where to Stay:
Royal Mansour Marrakech – Commissioned by the King of Morocco, this ultra-luxury riad-style hotel offers unmatched privacy, service, and Moroccan craftsmanship
2. Chefchaouen
The Blue Pearl of the Rif Mountains
Tucked away in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen feels like stepping into a dream. The entire town is washed in vibrant shades of blue, giving it an otherworldly charm. It’s slower-paced than Marrakech or Fez, which makes it a perfect respite between busier cities.
For travelers who crave photography, peace, or romance, Chefchaouen is a must. A guided walking tour through the medina, paired with a visit to a traditional weaving cooperative or a scenic mountain hike, rounds out the experience beautifully.
Things to See/Do:
- Stroll through the blue-painted medina and photograph its magical, winding alleys.
- Hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views of the town at sunset.
- Shop for handmade textiles and local crafts in peaceful souks.
Where to Stay:
Lina Ryad & Spa – A refined boutique riad with a heated indoor pool and full-service spa, offering beautiful views of the Rif Mountains.
3. Fes
Morocco’s Cultural and Spiritual Heart
Fes is where Morocco’s soul lives. Home to the world’s oldest university (University of Al Quaraouiyine), Fes is a deep dive into history and tradition. The Fes el-Bali medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—largely car-free and packed with architectural marvels.
This is a city I often suggest to travelers with a passion for heritage and craftsmanship. Guided tours here are essential, as the medina can feel labyrinthine, but the reward is discovering hidden tanneries, artisan quarters, and ancient religious schools.
Things to See/Do:
- Get lost in the UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali medina, one of the world’s oldest and largest.
- Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, considered the oldest university in the world.
- Tour the Chouara Tannery, watching traditional leather dyeing from above.
Where to Stay:
Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux – A regal riad offering a blend of Andalusian and Moroccan design, complete with fine dining and a luxurious spa.
4. Essaouira
The Windy City with Boho Charm
Essaouira is a coastal haven perfect for travelers looking to unwind. The sea breeze is constant, making it popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers, but you don’t need to be sporty to fall in love with its whitewashed walls, bright blue shutters, and relaxed pace.
The medina is compact and less hectic than its inland counterparts, and the seafood is out of this world. I often recommend Essaouira as part of a coastal escape or a prelude to a desert trek. Bonus: it’s an artist’s town, so expect plenty of galleries, music, and creativity.
Things to See/Do:
- Stroll along the historic medina and ramparts, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
- Visit the Skala de la Ville, the old sea bastion with rows of cannons and sea views.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at a local harbor-side grill or upscale restaurant.
Where to Stay:
Heure Bleue Palais – Relais & Châteaux – A former palace turned elegant hotel with colonial charm, a rooftop pool, and refined dining.
5. Merzouga
Gateway to the Sahara
This tiny village might not have the fame of the big cities, but it delivers one of Morocco’s most magical experiences: access to the Sahara Desert. From Merzouga, you can take a camel trek or 4×4 journey into the dunes of Erg Chebbi—and spend the night under a blanket of stars in a luxury desert camp.
For many travelers, this often becomes the highlight of their trip. I work with trusted partners to arrange boutique tents, gourmet meals in the dunes, and private guides who can explain the traditions of the Berber nomads.
Things to See/Do:
- Ride a camel into the dunes of Erg Chebbi at sunrise or sunset.
- Experience a luxury desert camp under the stars with Berber music and cuisine.
- Try sandboarding or take a 4×4 tour through the golden dunes.
Where to Stay:
Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp – Private tents with ensuite bathrooms and authentic desert hospitality, blending comfort with stargazing and serenity.
6. Casablanca
The Coastal Cosmopolitan Twist
While Casablanca doesn’t have the medieval mystique of Fes or Marrakech, it’s Morocco’s modern heart—vibrant, bustling, and full of surprises. The Hassan II Mosque, perched dramatically over the Atlantic, is an architectural feat and one of the few mosques open to non-Muslim visitors.
Even though it is in the middle of the list, I suggest Casablanca as either a starting or ending point—it’s home to Morocco’s largest airport and makes for a great introduction to the country’s evolving culture, luxury hotels, and fine dining scene.
Things to See/Do:
- Marvel at the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most ornate in the world.
- Explore the Corniche waterfront for dining and sunset views.
- Visit the Royal Palace of Casablanca and nearby traditional souks.
Where to Stay:
Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca – A beachfront oasis with ocean views, spa services, and modern Moroccan elegance.
7. Aït Benhaddou
Morocco’s Cinematic Time Capsule
Nestled between the High Atlas Mountains and the Sahara, Aït Benhaddou is a striking ksar (fortified village) made entirely of earthen clay. It feels frozen in time, and that’s why it has served as the backdrop for countless films and TV shows—Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and Lawrence of Arabia, to name a few.
The architecture is jaw-dropping, with honey-colored towers that blend into the surrounding desert, crumbling passageways, and breathtaking views from the top. I often recommend this stop for travelers enroute from Marrakech to the desert. With the right timing, we can even arrange a private sunset dinner overlooking the valley—an unforgettable experience.
Things to See/Do:
- Explore the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a mudbrick village featured in many films.
- Hike to the granary at the top of the village for incredible panoramic views.
- Take a guided tour of film locations from Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Where to Stay:
Kasbah Tamadot – While not directly in Aït Benhaddou, this nearby luxury retreat owned by Virgin’s Sir Richard Branson offers upscale Berber-style rooms with mountain views and impeccable service.
Final Thoughts from Your Travel Consultant
Ancient and modern, mystical and grounded, wild and refined, Morocco is a place full of dualities. Whether you’re drawn to the markets of Marrakech, the silent dunes of Merzouga, or the charm and cinematic excitement of Aït Benhaddou, this country speaks to every kind of traveler.
✨Exceptional travel begins with thoughtful planning. Whether you crave cultural immersion, luxury experiences, or off-the-beaten-path discoveries, I’ll curate an itinerary tailored just for you. Explore my Services Page and let’s design your next extraordinary escape.
