Morocco is arguably the place to experience the biggest and most incredible culture shock if you don’t want to fly too far away (at least from Eastern Canada). This North African nation has great attractions, both cultural and natural, to make for an epic and very unique trip.
I loved my many weeks in Morocco on 3 separate trips, and I still haven’t explored so many of the amazing places.
It’s also quite inexpensive, being one of the 30 best affordable countries to travel to for less than $40 total per day. To continue our accommodation prices feature, we’ll share a separate post with many lodging price examples for these Moroccan destinations soon.
Here are the 12 best destinations in Morocco.
Map of the 12 best destinations in Morocco
Morocco is a country a bit larger than Newfoundland and Labrador in size. It has 38 million inhabitants, which is almost the same as Canada.
Here’s a map to locate all the destinations in this post.
1. Casablanca
Nicknamed the “White City,” Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city, with around 4.3 million people in its metropolitan area (about the same as Montreal).
Founded in the 7th century, it’s the country’s main economic and financial hub, featuring one of the largest man-made harbors in the world! I was pleasantly surprised by the city.
You can explore the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the biggest mosques ever built that I found very impressive to see, or the vibrant markets of the Old Medina.
You will enjoy the scenic Corniche with its lovely cafés and parks. Don’t miss the Art Deco architecture in the Maarif neighborhood and the iconic Rick’s Café, inspired by the movie “Casablanca”.
2. Marrakech
Often called the “Red City,” Marrakech (sometimes spelled Marrakesh) is one of the country’s 4 historical imperial cities and a gateway to the Atlas Mountains and Sahara desert.
While it is just Morocco’s 4th- or 5th-largest metropolitan area (depending on definitions), it’s the most visited by foreign travelers. Its population is around 1 million, slightly more than Winnipeg or Québec City.
The Medina of Marrakech is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vibrant souks and the busy Jemaa el-Fnaa central square. Get lost in the splendid Jardin Majorelle and Bahia Palace, or relax in a hammam to immerse yourself even more in the local atmosphere. If you want to enjoy the nightlife, head to the Gueliz and Hivernage districts.
You can read our 10 places to visit in Marrakech for more details.
3. Fès
Fès (sometimes spelled Fes or Fez) is known as the “Mecca of the West” or the “Athens of Africa” and is considered Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart. It has many mosques, Islamic schools called “madrasa,” and traditional crafts. Fès is also an imperial city.
You’ll notice that the architecture varies a lot between Fès el-Bali and Fès el-Jdid, 2 distinct maze-like medinas, and newer areas like Ville Nouvelle (New Fès). The combined medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is even one of the largest urban car-free areas in the world! It was like stepping back in time.
During your stay, you can explore stunning madrasas like Bou Inania and Al-Attarine or admire (and smell!) the artisanal leather factories at places like Chouara Tannery and the Dar Batha Museum.
4. Tangier
Tangier (sometimes spelled Tangiers or Tanger) is located in northern Morocco on the Strait of Gibraltar. It’s famous for its beaches, café culture, historic port, and lively Medina.
In the 20th century, due to its status as an international zone belonging to no country, it was a popular meeting place for spies and diplomats, as well as artists and writers who often gathered at iconic spots like Café Hafa.
Start your visit by exploring the souks and the Kasbah area for panoramic views of the coastline. At the Museum of Moroccan Arts and Antiquities, you’ll learn everything about Tangier’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.
Tangier Beach and Achakkar Beach are perfect for sunbathing or water sports. I really enjoyed the city, which is just a short 1-hour ferry ride from Spain.
5. Chefchaouen
Welcome to the “Blue Pearl” or “Blue City” of Morocco. Chefchaouen is located in the Rif Mountains in the northwest part of the country.
Founded in 1471 as a fortress to fight the Portuguese invasions, this picturesque small town is now famous for its blue-painted buildings, symbolizing the sky and heaven. I found the city stunning.
You’ll enjoy checking out the lively markets in the Blue Medina. Don’t miss the chance to see traditional Moroccan artworks and discover history at the Kasbah Museum, or just chill out in Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the main square surrounded by historic landmarks.
6. Rabat
Rabat is another one of Morocco’s imperial cities and the current capital, located on the Atlantic coast of northwestern Morocco along the Bouregreg River.
With a population of 2.1 million (a bit less than Vancouver for comparison), it’s renowned for its administrative importance and embassies, but there’s lots more to do in Rabat!
You can visit the Medina, Kasbah of the Udayas (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the unfinished Hassan Tower, and the Chellah Necropolis.
You can also relax in the peaceful Andalusian Gardens or walk along the Corniche for ocean views.
7. Meknes
Meknes is known for its past as an imperial capital, and it’s the least visited of the 4. Yet it has many historical sites close together in a laid-back Medina.
Compared to other medinas in Morocco, it’s less crowded, so you won’t be as bothered by pushy sellers. The stunning Bab Mansour gate, with its arches and mosaic tiles, welcomes you to the city’s old royal center.
You can dive into Meknes’ history with visits to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail or the Hri Souani granaries and stables.
8. Merzouga
Merzouga is a small village in southeastern Morocco. It’s famous for its breathtaking Sahara Desert views and for being the gateway to the famous Erg Chebbi sand dunes.
Here, you’ll find peace and quiet away from the big cities.
Thrill-seekers can try sandboarding, quad biking, and 4×4 excursions. At night, staying in traditional Berber desert camps offers a chance to enjoy local hospitality and listen to traditional music under the stars.
9. Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is Morocco’s Hollywood, with many studios and locations for filming movies and TV shows taking advantage of the unique architecture and landscape.
For example, the Taourirt Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah have been featured in many films.
Ouarzazate is also known as the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Outdoor enthusiasts love the surrounding beautiful valleys, palm oases, and the dramatic views of the Atlas Mountains.
10. Tinerhir
Tinerhir, also known as Tinghir, is a town in Morocco’s eastern High Atlas Mountains. This location is famous for being very close to the iconic Todgha Gorge.
This amazing canyon, carved by the Todgha River, has limestone walls over 400 meters high, making it a paradise for climbers and hikers!
In addition to the gorge, you can visit the palm groves or explore the town for traditional Berber architecture, small markets, and cozy cafés.
11. Essaouira
Essaouira is a coastal city in western Morocco. It was built on fortified walls surrounding its historic Medina.
It’s earned UNESCO World Heritage status for good reasons — it’s beautiful and rich in history. People love it for its arts scene, beaches, fishing traditions, and its annual Gnawa and World Music Festival.
You can climb the Skala de la Ville ramparts for panoramic views of the ocean and the blue and white Medina. It’s a great destination if you love art galleries, fresh seafood, or water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding.
12. Agadir
In southern Morocco, the major coastal city of Agadir is famous for its beaches and climate, as well as its unique Amazigh (Berber) culture. Ethnic Berbers predate the arrival of Arabs in Morocco and represent 30% of the country’s population, with many in the Agadir area.
The city has a very modern layout, which you don’t find often in Moroccan cities. Check out the wide boulevards, sandy beaches, and awesome views from the Kasbah (Agadir Oufella). Then, you can buy spices, fabrics, and souvenirs at the bustling Souk El Had market.
It’s also a great spot for day trips to the Atlas Mountains — the city is near the foot of the mountains — and desert adventures.
Learning how to travel for less
Join over 100,000 savvy Canadian travelers who already receive Flytrippers’ free newsletter so we can help you travel for less (and inspire you, too)!
Summary
Morocco offers a sensational cultural and natural experience, perfect for travelers seeking a budget-friendly adventure. From grandiose Mosques to vibrant markets, Morocco is full of life. Just witnessing the vast Sahara Desert will make your trip worthwhile.
What would you like to know about destinations to visit in Morocco? Tell us in the comments below.
See the flight deals we spot: Cheap flights
Discover free travel with rewards: Travel rewards
Explore awesome destinations: Travel inspiration
Learn pro tricks: Travel tips
Featured image: Tamnougalt, Morocco (photo credit: Sergey Pesterev)
