A land of vibrant colors, intoxicating spices, and ancient stories, Morocco is a sensory adventure that bridges Africa and Europe. It's where snow-capped mountains meet the endless Sahara, and medieval medinas buzz with modern life.
If you're planning your first trip, the sheer diversity can be overwhelming. Where do you even begin? We've narrowed it down to the 5 best places to visit in Morocco that offer the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and unforgettable moments.
Quick Links: The Best of Morocco
1. Marrakech: The Vibrant Red City
Marrakech is the quintessential Moroccan experience and the perfect starting point. It's a city of beautiful contradictions. By day, you'll get lost in the endless, maze-like alleyways of the medina, discovering hidden souks overflowing with leather goods, spices, and handmade lanterns. By night, the central square, Jemaa el-Fna, explodes into an open-air theater of snake charmers, storytellers, and food stalls.
For a Western traveler, the energy is intoxicating. Don't miss the stunning Jardin Majorelle, a cobalt-blue botanical garden once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. The true magic, however, lies in staying in a riad—a traditional guesthouse with a tranquil inner courtyard—which provides a peaceful oasis from the vibrant chaos outside.
Don't Miss in Marrakech:
- Getting lost in the souks (and haggling for a souvenir).
- The food stalls at Jemaa el-Fna after dark.
- Finding peace at Jardin Majorelle and the Bahia Palace.
2. Fes (Fez): The Ancient Cultural Heart
If Marrakech is the heart, Fes is the soul of Morocco. Home to the world's oldest university, the medina of Fes el Bali is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a living, breathing medieval city. It's one of the largest car-free urban zones in the world, and stepping inside feels like traveling back in time 1,000 years.
Here, life unfolds as it has for centuries. You'll see donkeys hauling goods, artisans hammering copper, and the famous Chouara Tanneries, where leather is still dyed in large, colorful stone vats. Fes is less polished than Marrakech, offering a more authentic, unfiltered glimpse into Morocco's deep history and craftsmanship.
Don't Miss in Fes:
- The panoramic view of the Chouara Tanneries (from a leather shop terrace).
- Wandering through the Fes el Bali medina (hire a guide for the first time!).
- Visiting the Al-Attarine or Bou Inania Madrasa.
3. Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl of the Mountains
You've seen it on Instagram, and it's even better in person. Tucked away in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is famous for one thing: its stunning, blue-washed medina. The entire old town is a dreamlike palette of blues, from periwinkle to deep cobalt.
Unlike the frenetic pace of Fes and Marrakech, Chefchaouen is incredibly laid-back. The main draw is simply wandering, getting lost in the impossibly photogenic alleyways, and enjoying the fresh mountain air. It's the perfect place to slow down, browse local craft shops, and sip mint tea in a square while watching the world go by. A hike to the Spanish Mosque on the hill above the town offers a breathtaking sunset view over the "Blue Pearl."
Don't Miss in Chefchaouen:
- Taking photos in the iconic blue alleys.
- The sunset hike to the Spanish Mosque.
- Relaxing in the main square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam.
4. The Sahara Desert (Merzouga): The Ultimate Adventure
No trip to Morocco is complete without experiencing the vast, silent beauty of the Sahara Desert. The most accessible and stunning gateway is the town of Merzouga, which sits at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes—a sea of towering, orange sand.
This is a true bucket-list experience. The classic adventure involves a sunset camel trek into the dunes to a traditional Berber camp. For Western travelers, "camping" can mean anything from a basic tent to a full-on "glamping" experience with a private bathroom and king-sized bed. The highlight is the profound silence, the explosion of stars in the night sky, and waking up to the sun rising over the dunes.
Don't Miss in the Sahara:
- A sunset or sunrise camel trek.
- Spending a night in a desert camp (luxury or traditional).
- Stargazing in one of the darkest skies you'll ever see.
5. Essaouira: The Breezy Coastal Escape
After the heat and intensity of the cities and desert, Essaouira is a literal breath of fresh air. This laid-back, white-and-blue coastal town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its formidable 18th-century ramparts (instantly recognizable to *Game of Thrones* fans as Astapor).
Nicknamed the "Windy City of Africa," it's a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers. The medina is easy to navigate, filled with art galleries and artisan shops. The best part? Strolling along the bustling fishing port, watching the iconic blue boats come in, and picking out fresh fish to be grilled at a nearby stall. It's the perfect place to unwind for a few days.
Don't Miss in Essaouira:
- Walking the ramparts (Skala de la Ville) at sunset.
- Eating fresh, grilled fish at the port.
- Exploring the art galleries and artisan shops in the medina.
Your Moroccan Adventure Awaits
From the imperial cities' ancient call to the Sahara's profound silence, Morocco offers a journey for every kind of traveler. Each of these five destinations provides a unique window into the country's heart.
Whether you're seeking the thrill of a bustling souk or the peace of a mountain town, one thing is certain: Morocco will capture your imagination and never let it go.
Which destination will you explore first?