Best Cities to Visit in Morocco: Top Destinations to Explore in 2025

Best Cities to Visit in Morocco: A Complete Travel Guide by Travel Via Morocco

If you’re longing for a trip that combines ancient medinas, teeming souks, vast deserts, and paradise-like coastlines, you’ll want to put Morocco at the top of your list.

Now, this North African jewel offers visitors a rich tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and histories. In this post, our professional team at Travel Via Morocco reveals the best cities to visit in Morocco to ensure you discover the soul of this magical place.

Whether you are after a cultural visit, a desert experience, or a beach break, Morocco has a destination that will appeal to you and your travel needs.

Why Visit Morocco?

Morocco is a country of contradictions. From the windswept dunes of the Sahara to the snowcapped peaks of the Atlas Mountains, from ancient imperial cities to colorful fishing ports, there’s a tale to tell here wherever you go.

Its distinctive mix of Arab, Berber, and European cultural influences can be seen in its architecture, cuisine, music, and customs.

There are plenty of tourist attractions in all the places listed and they each have something unique to offer you, whether you’re looking for architectural wonders, desert adventures or a possible beach getaway.

10 best Places to Visit in Morocco

Now, let’s take a look at some of the best cities to visit in Morocco and what makes each one a unique place to visit.

Marrakech, also known as the Red City, is one of the most unique places to visit in Morocco.

No roundup of the best cities to visit in Morocco would be complete without Marrakech

The fabled Red City. Renowned for its bustling medinas, colorful souks, and ancient palaces, Marrakech has something to enchant every traveller.

It’s one of Morocco’s most iconic places to explore for good reason: With its heady mix of tradition, artistry, and modern luxury.

 

Why Visit Marrakech:

It’s Morocco’s cultural capital, known for its UNESCO-listed medina, jam-packed souks, grand palaces, and vibrant public squares.

Top Attractions in Marrakech:

Jemaa el-Fnaa: The vibrant heart of Marrakech, this famous square comes alive with street performers, snake charmers, storytellers, and food stalls, especially at sunset.

Koutoubia Mosque: The largest mosque in the city, distinguished by its 77-meter-tall minaret, which is a prominent feature of Marrakech’s skyline.

Bahia Palace: A stunning 19th-century palace known for its ornate courtyards, intricate zellige tilework, and lush gardens.

Saadian Tombs: Hidden for centuries, these 16th-century tombs are celebrated for their delicate carvings and beautiful mosaic work.

Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum: A tranquil botanical garden originally designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle, later owned by fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent. The adjacent museum honors the designer’s legacy.

El Badi Palace: Although now in ruins, this former palace offers atmospheric courtyards and stunning views of the city from its ancient ramparts.

Things to Do in Marrakech:

  1. Wander the Medina’s Souks: Get lost in the ancient city’s winding streets, browsing for spices, rugs, leatherwear, and authentic Moroccan souvenirs.

  2. Get a Classic Hammam: Indulge in a Moroccan steam bath and scrub at a neighborhood hammam or one of Marrakech’s upscale baths.

  3. Laze out at Majorelle Garden: Get off the medina streets and wander the lush, exotically planted gardens filled with cobalt-blue buildings and peaceful fountains.

  4. Join a Cooking Class: Get a hands-on lesson in making traditional Moroccan cuisine, such as tagine and couscous, with local chefs.

  5. Head for a Rooftop Café: Enjoy mint tea while overlooking the medina and Atlas Mountains from a stylish, elevated spot in the city.

  6. Explore Marrakech’s Museums: Visit cultural jewels such as the Dar Si Said Museum, the Marrakech Museum, and the House of Photography.

  7. Take a Desert Excursion: Marrakech is a great place to book a tour to the desert in Merzouga (or Zagora), complete with camel treks, overnight desert camps, and 4×4 trips.

Marrakech Travel Tips:

When to go: Visit from March to May and from September to November for mild conditions.

Perfect for travelers interested in: history, culture, shopping, and desert explorations

Airport hub. There are a large number of European and international routes flown from Marrakech Menara International Airport

Commercial of the day: Make memories with Travel Via Morocco’s private Marrakech desert tours — from 3-day Merzouga journeys to quad biking, hot air balloon rides, and visits to local Berber villages.

best time to visit morocco

Most Popular Tours from Marrakech

Popular Day Trips from Marrakech

Day Trip to Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate

Day Trip to Essaouira

Day Trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls

Day Trip to the Ourika Valley & Setti Fatma

Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains & Imlil Valley

Day Trip to Agafay Desert with Camel Ride & Dinner

Casablanca: Morocco's Blend of Modernity and Tradition

Casablanca: As one of the best cities to visit in Morocco, Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and its most cosmopolitan.

It is referred to as modern Morocco’s most advanced economy, mixing modern business quarters with Spanish colonial architecture along with a breezy seafront.

While most visitors simply pass through the city on their way elsewhere, there are some great things to see and do in Casablanca.

Top Attractions in Casablanca

Hassan II Mosque: The city’s crown architectural jewel, and one of the world’s largest mosques. It rises dramatically amid the Atlantic coastline, with the world’s tallest minaret, and is accessible for non-Muslim visitors on guided tours.

The Corniche: A bustling seaside promenade filled with cafés, beach clubs, and seafood restaurants, ideal for sunset strolls and ocean views.

Habous Quarter (New Medina): A picturesque mix of French colonial and Moroccan architecture, made up of artisan shops, local bakeries, and traditional souks.

Morocco Mall: The biggest mall in North Africa, where you can get international brands, including an indoor aquarium and entertainment.

Old Medina of Casablanca: A traditional local market consisting of narrow alleyways, spice sellers, and souvenir shops.

Rick’s Café: Horse’s for courses but does have the attribute of being an iconic venue made to look like the famous Casablanca film, and the décor is vintage, and the menu contains Moroccan-French cuisine.

Things to Do in Casablanca

  1. Visit the Hassan II Mosque for its elaborate mosaics and far-reaching views of the Atlantic.

  2. Take a leisurely walk along the Corniche, then relax at Ain Diab Beach.

  3. Browse for local crafts and pastries in the Habous Quarter.

  4. Stop by the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, one of a handful in the Arab world.

  5. Loosen your tie at Rick’s Café for a nostalgically cinematic meal.

  6. Take a walking tour of the city’s Art Deco landmarks.

  7. Take day trips to Rabat, El Jadida, or Azemmour, which are all nearby.

Why Casablanca is One of the Best Cities to Visit in Morocco

Casablanca is a vibrant counterpoint to the country’s ancient medinas and desert panoramas.

It’s great for travelers looking for a mix of modern city life, coastal charm, and architectural beauty.

As Morocco’s primary place of international entry, the city is a logical place to kick off a countrywide trip.

 

When to go: Year-round, with gentle winters and heat summers.

Best for: Urban explorers, history lovers, and oceanfront dining fans.

Travel Hub: The busiest airport in the country, Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, links Morocco both to Europe and the continent of Africa, and beyond.

Commercial Tip

Reserve private tours from Casablanca through Travel Via Morocco.

We provide personalised trips from Casablanca to Marrakech, Fes, the Sahara, and Essaouira – including luxury transport, expert guides, and custom itineraries.

Popular Tours from Casablanca

3-Day Desert Tour from Casablanca to Merzouga

4-Day Casablanca to Fes and Desert Tour

5-Day Imperial Cities Tour from Casablanca

7-Day Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca

8-Day Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca

10-Day Best of Morocco Tour from Casablanca

12-Day Morocco Discovery Tour from Casablanca

14-Day Complete Morocco Tour from Casablanca

Popular Day Trips from Casablanca

Day Trip to Chefchaouen

Day Trip to Marrakech

Day Trip to Rabat

Casablanca City Sightseeing Tour

Day Trip to El Jadida

Day Trip to Azemmour

Day Trip to Oualidia (for fresh oysters and beaches)

Day Trip to Fes

Fes: Morocco’s Cultural Capital

If you’re interested in Moroccan history, Fes is a must-visit. The city’s ancient medina is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and stands as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.

Why Visit Fes:

Fes is the And there’s no place in the country you can feel there pulse so intently. With its medieval medina and real artisan workshops, it provides an ideal destination for travellers wanting a true taste of Morocco.

Top Attractions in Fes:

Quaraouiyine University: the world’s oldest university still functioning.

Chouara Tannery: Best known for its vibrant dyeing vats and pits.

Bou Inania Madras is A stunning example of Islamic architecture.

Things to Do in Fes:

  1. Discover Fes el Bali (Old Medina):

    Wander the twisting alleyways of its old city, packed with busy souks, spice markets, and artisan shops. The Medina takes you back in time.

  2. Take a tour of Al Quaraouiyine University:

    Look upon the stunning courtyard and ancient buildings of this prestigious university.

  3. See the Leather Tanning at Chouara Tannery:

    Come early in the day for bright pictures of the standard dyeing vats.

  4. Tour Bou Inania Madrasa:

    Open to visitors of all faiths, this madrasa has fine zellige tilework and carved wood.

  5. Visit the Royal Palace Gates (Dar el-Makhzen):

    Take a photo in front of the striking gold doors.

  6. Walk the Mellah (Jewish Quarter)

    Marvel at the distinctive architecture and enter the famous Ibn Danan Synagogue.

  7. Shop in Souk el Henna:

    A peaceful market offering cosmetics, henna, and spices.

  8. Hike to Merenid Tombs:

    Climb to the top for views of sunset over the medina and the surrounding hills.

  9. Take a Fes Food Tour:

    Enjoy traditional Moroccan food such as pastilla, harira, and mint tea.

  10. Go on a Desert Tour to Merzouga:

    Begin a multi-day excursion with Travel Via Morocco that includes camel trekking, luxury desert camps, and visits to Berber villages.

Fes Travel Tips:

Best time to go: Spring and autumn

Wear flat, comfortable shoes for the uneven streets of the Medina

Local guide services: Don’t get lost or miss the hidden facts of history.

Commercial Tip: From Fes, we offer private guided Fes tours, dedicated Fes food tours, and tailor-made desert trips to Merzouga.

Popular Tours from Fes

2 Days Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour

2 Days Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour

3 Days Fes to Merzouga Desert Tour

3 Days Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour

4 Days Fes to Merzouga Desert Adventure

4 Days Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour

5 Days Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert Tour

Tangier: Morocco’s Port City at the Crossroads of Continents

As far as the best places to visit in Morocco go, Tangier is special because it is the country’s northern gateway, where Africa and Europe meet.

Set above the Strait of Gibraltar, this ancient port city is a melting pot of cultures, a legacy of centuries of international visitors, from Phoenician traders to Spanish, French, and British diplomats.

Today, Tangier retains its bohemian roots, but has also been modernized, bringing seafront cafes and a thriving medina.

Top Attractions in Tangier

Museum of the Kasbah: Located in the old Sultan’s palace, this museum features artefacts from Tangier’s eclectic past and a breathtaking view of the city and the sea.

Tangier Medina: A bustling warren of narrow streets, souks and cafes that are great for shopping for local crafts, textiles and spices.

Caves of Hercules: An intriguing natural grotto with mythological associations, which, according to Greek legend, is where Hercules used to take a break. Its face, which opens to the sea, has the shape of the African continent.

Cap Spartel: Where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. A scenic lighthouse and clifftop views ensure this is one of the must-see stops.

American Legation Museum: The United States’ first American public property outside of the U.S. houses an array of historical documents, artwork, and cultural exhibits.

Things to Do in Tangier

  1. Explore the historic Kasbah, checking out its ornate gates and landscaped courtyard gardens.

  2. Shop and sip mint tea in the pulsating Medina.

  3. Stop by the Caves of Hercules and get a photo through the iconic, Africa-shaped opening.

  4. Cap Spartel’s lighthouse offers sunset views.

  5. Discover the city’s bohemian past at the American Legation Museum.

  6. Unwind on the renovated Tangier Corniche with its seafront cafés and beaches.

  7. Hop on a ferry to Spain for a day trip to Tarifa, a mere 1 hour away.

Why Tangier is One of the Best Cities to Visit in Morocco

With its mix of Mediterranean beaches, ancient sights, and cosmopolitan flair, Tangier ranks among the top 10 cities in Morocco for every type of traveler.

It’s also one of the top places to visit in Morocco for families with sea and outings of cultural activities and a lot of nightlife, so perhaps you can’t go wrong as it is, after all, one of the best Morocco cities for nightlife! Being close to Europe only enhances its international appeal, as do its newly restored medina and contemporary facilities, and it’s a destination on the rise.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November for moderate weather.

Perfect for: Culture vultures, history buffs, families, and beach combers.

Travel Tip: You can use the Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport to get to important Moroccan and European cities.

Commercial Tip

Book your Tangier holiday with Travel Via Morocco. Tangier Private Tours We offer private custom tours and Tangier day trips to Chefchaouen, Fes, the Sahara Desert, and Marrakech with local guides, luxury transport, and tailor-made experiences.

Popular Tours from Tangier

Tangier to Chefchaouen & Fes 3-Day Tour

Tangier to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert 4-Day Tour

5-Day Tangier to Sahara Desert & Imperial Cities Tour

7-Day Northern Morocco Tour from Tangier

8-Day Grand Morocco Tour from Tangier

4-Day Sahara Desert Adventure from Tangier

5-Day Imperial Cities Tour from Tangier

7-Day Tangier to Essaouira Tour

10-Day Complete Morocco Tour from Tangier

Tangier to Casablanca & Marrakech 6-Day Tour

Popular Day Trips from Tangier

Day Trip to Chefchaouen (The Blue Pearl)

Day Trip to Asilah (Coastal Art Town)

Day Trip to Tetouan (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Day Trip to Cap Spartel & Hercules Caves

Day Trip to Akchour Waterfalls and Rif Mountains

FAQ best cities to visit in morocco

What is the best time to visit Morocco?

The best time to visit Morocco is in the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). The weather is mild and pleasant. This makes it perfect for exploring the country’s diverse regions.

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