The most visited cities in Morocco are Casablanca, Marrakech, and Essaouira. Casablanca is known for its impressive Hassan II Mosque, which boasts the tallest minaret in the world, and Marrakech is a city of contrasts with its labyrinthine souks, bustling street performers, and incredible food. For those looking for a more laid-back vibe, it is the perfect destination. Essaouira, Rabat, and Fes are the most visited cities in Morocco, each with its own unique charm and character. Essaouira is a haven for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, while Rabat is a city steeped in history and culture.
Welcome, fellow travelers! Today, we’re going to embark on a journey through Morocco’s enchanting and exotic country. A land of vibrant colors, delicious cuisine, and an incredibly rich history, Morocco is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. But with so many amazing cities to choose from, where do you even begin? Fear not, dear reader, for I am here to guide you through the most visited cities in Morocco.
Let’s start with the bustling metropolis of Casablanca. Known for its impressive Hassan II Mosque, which boasts the tallest minaret in the world, Casablanca is a city of contrasts. From its modern architecture to its ancient medina, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So, grab a cup of mint tea and wander the bustling streets, taking in this incredible city’s sights, sounds, and smells.
Next up, we have the city of Marrakech. With its labyrinthine souks, bustling street performers, and incredible food, Marrakech is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Whether you’re haggling with vendors in the souks, taking in the majesty of the Bahia Palace, or relaxing in a rooftop café, Marrakech is a city that will capture your heart and leave you breathless.
For those looking for a more laid-back vibe, the coastal city of Essaouira is the perfect destination. With its charming blue and white buildings, pristine beaches, and relaxed atmosphere, Essaouira is a haven for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Take a stroll along the ramparts, indulge in fresh seafood, or simply soak up the sun and surf – the choice is yours.
No trip to Morocco would be complete without a visit to the capital city of Rabat. Rabat is a city steeped in history and culture, from the imposing Hassan Tower to the stunning Royal Palace. Take a guided tour of the city’s incredible landmarks, or simply wander the streets and soak up the atmosphere.
Last but not least, we have the city of Fes. Known for its ancient medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fes is a city that will transport you back in time. From its intricate tilework to its stunning mosques and madrasas, Fes is a feast for the eyes. Don’t forget to sample some of the city’s famous cuisine, such as the hearty and flavorful tagine.
So, there you have it – the most visited cities in Morocco. Each one has its own unique charm and character, and I highly recommend adding them all to your travel itinerary. But don’t just take my word for it – get out there and experience Morocco for yourself!
10 Most Visited Cities In Morocco
1.Rabat
Are you ready to see the city that serves as the capital of Morocco? Tourists tend to overlook the city of Rabat, but trust me when I say it’s a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. Rabat has something for everyone, from its quiet beaches to its interesting museums and winding streets.
Let’s start by talking about the beaches. Rabat is on the coast, and its beaches are some of the quietest and most peaceful in the country. Grab a towel, put on some sunscreen, and lie down in the sun while listening to the waves. Since the weather is great all year, it’s a great place to go to get away from the cold winter months.
Rabat, Morocco
Let’s move on to talking about the city itself. The Old Town and the New Town are the two parts of Rabat. Modernity is at the center of the New Town, which has wide boulevards and outdoor cafes where you can watch people and take in the lively atmosphere. On the other hand, the Old Town, or medina, with its traditional souks (markets) and historical feel, is a charming step back in time. Get lost in the winding alleys, take in the sights and smells of the busy markets, and don’t forget to haggle for some souvenirs to bring home.
But beaches and souks aren’t the only things to do in Rabat. There are also some of the best art museums and galleries in the country there. The National Archaeological Museum is a great place to go if you are interested in history. It has a large collection of artifacts from prehistoric times. Modern Moroccan art can be seen at the Modern Art Museum, which is a treat for art lovers.
It is not hard to get to Rabat. Trains often run through the city, making it easy to get to most places. There are two stations: Agdal and Gare Rabat Ville-Medina. If you want to fly into the country, the Rabat International Airport is in the town of Salé, which is close by. Just outside the Rabat Ville Train Station/Mohammed V Tramway Station, you can catch a Stareo bus that goes straight to the city center.
2.Fes
Welcome to Fes, a city with a long history and a lot of cultures. This city is like a treasure chest full of secrets you can only discover if you walk its old streets. In the past, Fes was the capital of Morocco, and it is still a very important cultural center today. In 1981, the city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which wasn’t a big surprise.
The medina in Fes is a place that will leave you speechless, and it is the largest urban area in North Africa where cars are not allowed. Can you even think of that? The old part of town, called Fès el-Bali, is made up of a maze of alleys, stairs, and squares. It is over 1,200 years old. The colorful tanneries are a photographer’s dream, and the cozy cottages will make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.
Fes, Medina, Morocco
If you want a break from the medina, you can go to the modern part of the city called Ville Nouvelle. You can see the French influence in the country in the elegant boulevards with pretty fountains and grand hotels. The streets look like they belong in Paris, and the mix of old and new buildings is beautiful. You won’t miss the chance to walk around the city and see what it offers.
Trains frequently run between Marrakech and Oujda and Tangier and Oujda, making it easy to get to Fes. You can also fly to Fes Sais International Airport, which is about 15 km from the city center. If you’d rather drive, it takes about 3 hours from Casablanca. No matter how you get there, bring shoes that are easy to walk in because you’ll be doing a lot of exploring.
Here are some places you have to see in Fes:
- A religious school from the 14th century called Bou Inania Medersa is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture. The intricate wood carvings and tile work are stunning.
- Al-Attarine Madrasa: This religious school is also known for its beautiful architecture, especially its stucco and zellige tilework.
- Chouara Tannery is the biggest of Fes’s tanneries. It’s where you’ll find the colorful vats where leather is dyed.
- The Dar Batha Museum is in a building that used to be a palace. It has displays of Moroccan textiles, ceramics, and woodwork.
Fes has a lot to see and do, so set aside a few days to do so. You won’t regret it!
3.Essaouira
This cute little town on the west coast of Morocco is a real gem that not many people know about. It may be small, but it has a lot of character and a unique past that is just waiting to be discovered. Let’s start with the old town or medina. The Portuguese built this old fortified city in the 1600s. It is full of history and culture. Take in the sights and sounds of the local vendors, selling everything from traditional Moroccan textiles to handcrafted jewelry. Wander through the narrow alleys, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Essaouira, Morocco
Essaouira has more to offer, though. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, where you can relax in the sun, swim, or even try surfing. And what’s best? You can enjoy the beach any time of year because the weather is always nice.When you’re not on the beach or in the medina, you should check out the art galleries in the area. Many galleries in Essaouira show off the unique culture and art of Morocco. You can find everything from traditional Moroccan pottery to paintings and sculptures made in the present day.
Also, you can’t leave Essaouira without seeing the argan trees, which are unique. These iconic Moroccan trees are found especially in this region and produce argan oil, a popular ingredient in many beauty products. Take a walk through the argan forests to see how beautiful these trees are.
Essaouira has a wide range of places to stay, so you can find something that fits your budget. Whether you want a cozy guesthouse or a fancy hotel, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. Riad Dar Maya, L’Heure Bleue Palais, and Hotel Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa are some of our favorite places to stay.
4.Marrakech
Welcome to Marrakech, the most important city in central Morocco, which is full of life. Marrakech is the place to go if you want to experience a lot of different things at once. The city’s loud and colorful energy will draw you in as soon as you get off the train or plane. Spices and delicious local food will fill your senses with their smells. It’s a city that makes you want to dive into the chaos and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
As you walk through Marrakech’s streets, you’ll find lots of bazaars and markets to check out. You can buy everything from jewelry to spices. And if you want to see how busy the city is, go to Jemaa el-Fnaa, the busiest square in Africa. Here, tourists and locals mingle with street performers, storytellers, and magicians who are all trying to get your attention.
Marrakech, Morocco
From big cities like Casablanca, Tangier, and Nador, you can take the train to Marrakech or fly straight to Marrakech-Menara Airport. The airport has direct flights from many of the biggest cities in Europe, including London, Dublin, Paris, Madrid, and many others.
Now, let’s talk about the Koutoubia Mosque, which is the most popular place to visit in Marrakech. This beautiful mosque is the tallest building in Marrakech at 77 meters. It is also the largest mosque in the city. Its striking minaret dominates the skyline of the city and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. It was built in the 12th century and showed the city’s history and architecture.
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But Marrakech has a lot more than just the Koutoubia Mosque to offer. Beautiful gardens like the Jardin Majorelle and the Menara Gardens are great places to escape the city’s noise and chaos. And history fans should definitely check out the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs.
5.Casablanca
Casablanca is Morocco’s biggest city and a great place to shop until you drop! This city is a mix of old and new. You can enjoy modern comforts while taking in the traditional culture of Morocco. One of the best things to do in Casablanca is to go to a nightclub and dance until the early morning hours. And if all that dancing makes your feet hurt, the Morocco Mall is the perfect place to do some serious shopping. This shopping mall is so big that you might need a map to get out.
Casablanca, Morocco
As you walk around Casablanca, you’ll be amazed by the Mauresque architecture, which is a mix of Arab and Parisian styles. Everything around you, from buildings to squares, is the real art. And if you want to see the city in style, you can take an exciting ride on the Casa Tramway. It’s easy to get to Casablanca by train because it has a good network of rail lines. If you’re flying in from somewhere other than Morocco, you’ll land at Mohammed V International Airport, which is the busiest airport in the country and welcomes people from all over the world.
The Hassan II Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Morocco and the seventh largest in the world, is the most popular place to visit in Casablanca. This amazing piece of architecture sits on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and has many beautiful design features. So, put it on your list of things to do when you go to Casablanca.
6.Tangier
The place where European and African cultures meet and blend. Travelers have been drawn to this city for hundreds of years by its history, architecture, and stunning views. And don’t forget that it’s close to Spain, which makes it a great place to stop if you want to see both continents in one trip. So, what can you do and see in Tangier?
First, you can take a walk through the medina, a maze of narrow streets and busy bazaars that will take you back in time. You can find all kinds of treasures here, from spices and fabrics to silver jewelry and ceramics with intricate designs. And if you want to try something new, try some street food, like the famous bocadillo sandwich from Morocco.
Tangier, Morocco
Next, go to the coast and take a walk along the Corniche, which has beautiful views of the sea and the hills in the distance. You can stop by the famous Cafe Hafa, a cozy place with a great view of the Strait of Gibraltar that has been a favorite hangout spot for many writers and artists over the years. If you are interested in history, Tangier has a lot of museums and historical sites to visit. The Kasbah Museum is a must-see because it shows the city’s fascinating history.
The Dar el Makhzen palace, the American Legation Museum, and the Caves of Hercules are also worth seeing. If you have a little more time, you can take a day trip to Asilah, a cute coastal town with a colorful medina and a laid-back vibe. Or, you could go to Tetouan, which is also an old city with beautiful buildings and busy markets. When it comes to places to stay, there are many options in Tangier.
If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to stay at a hostel like the Tanja Lucia Hostel, which is in the middle of the medina and has great views of the city. But keep an eye out for strange things, especially if you’re a woman traveling alone. You could also stay in a hotel like the Hotel Maram or book a room on Airbnb in Tangier to feel more like a local. Other popular choices include Dar Essaki 1886 and Tangier Chez Habitant.
7.Merzouga
Merzouga is the place to go if you want an adventure in Morocco that’s a little off the beaten path. This small town may not be the most exciting place to visit in Morocco, but it is a great place to stay while you explore the nearby desert. And by “surrounding desert,” I mean the amazing Cherg Ebbi sand dunes, which stand out like a golden lighthouse over the town.
Now, I must tell you the truth: I don’t like the town. But who cares when one of the world’s most beautiful natural sights is right outside your door? If you leave town at the right time, you can even walk right onto the sand dunes. And if you really want to try something new, you could sign up for a camel trek that lasts all night. It’s a classic thing to do in Morocco; you won’t soon forget it.
Merzouga, Morocco
But, you ask, what about places to stay? So, here’s what I think about that. I stayed at the Family Moroccan House, also known as Dar Gambra. They went above and beyond in some ways (hello, luxury desert tour! ), but their constant upselling and manipulation were a bit tiring. But don’t worry, Merzouga has a lot of other great places to stay, like the Riad Ali (with its beautiful pool), the Auberge Le Petit Prince, the Riad Dar Hassan, and the Kasbah Mohayut.
And since we’re talking about things to do in Merzouga, here are some tours I think you’ll enjoy:
- Overnight Camel Trek: Spend the night in the desert under the stars, with nothing but the soft sand and the stars to keep you company.
- Full-Day 4×4 Dunes Tour: This tour is for you if you’d rather drive through the desert than walk. You’ll go to Khamlia Village and the well-known Erg Chebbi dunes, two of the most beautiful places in the area.
- Sunrise or Sunset Camel Trek: Take a camel ride to see the sunrise or sunset over the dunes for a shorter but still magical experience. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take a picture, and the colors are stunning.
So, that’s the end of it. Merzouga might not be the most exciting city in Morocco, but if you want a unique desert experience, you should go there. You could end up falling in love with the quiet town after all. Who can say?
8.Chefchaouen
This gem in the Rif Mountains is known as the “Blue City.” It is a photographer’s dream. But Chefchaouen isn’t just a good place to take pretty pictures. It’s also a great place to learn about Moroccan culture in a more relaxed setting. After visiting the busy cities of Fes and Marrakech, I was excited to visit Chefchaouen, so I could take pictures and get used to the culture. But I quickly learned that the quieter atmosphere also made it easier to notice the attention from the local men.
So be ready to turn away from them and keep walking. It’s important to remember that this sort of thing doesn’t just happen in Chefchaouen. It happens all over the country. When I went to Chefchaouen, I only wished I had set aside an extra day to hike to the nearby waterfalls. So, if you have time, put that on your list of things to do. Aside from hiking, you’ll spend most of your time in Chefchaouen, walking around the city, taking photos, and trying out the local food.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
If you only want to spend a day in Chefchaouen, you can take a tour from nearby cities like Fes, Tangier, or Rabat. But you can choose a private tour if you’d rather have a more personalized experience. Just make sure to pick an option that fits your needs and budget.
We stayed at Dar Antonio, a cozy guesthouse right in the middle of the medina in Chefchaouen. But it can be hard to find because it looks the same as all the other blue buildings around it. Even though it was hard to find, the guesthouse was worth it, and the people who ran it were friendly and helpful. But if Dar Antonio is full, there are many other places to stay, such as Casa a Chauen Guest House, Casa Karam with Terrace, and Casa La Hiba.
9.Agadir
Welcome to Agadir, Morocco’s answer to Miami. This busy port city is known for its lively boulevards along the beach, cosmopolitan feel, and beautiful beaches that will make you feel like you’re in a movie. Even though Agadir has had a rough history, it has become one of the best cities in Morocco to visit.
Agadir’s strength is an example for all of us. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 1960, which left the city in ruins. However, in the following years, it rebuilt itself and became stronger. The busy energy of the city is contagious, and you’ll be drawn in by its cosmopolitan charm as soon as you arrive.
Agadir isn’t just a city for people who love the sun; it’s also a great place for people who love nature. The Souss-Massa National Park is a must-see for anyone who likes to hike. Or, if you want to do something more relaxing, you can just walk along Agadir Beach and enjoy the area’s beauty. It’s easy to get to Agadir. The Agadir-Al Massira Airport is only 20 km southeast of the city and has direct flights to major European cities. You’ll feel like a movie star when you get to this beautiful place.
The Agadir Birds Valley is by far the most popular place to visit in Agadir. This natural park is home to a wide range of exotic birds and animals and is a great place to take in the beauty of the area’s natural surroundings. Agadir has something for everyone, whether you like to hike or hang out on the beach. So, come for the sun and stay for the fun!
10.Ouarzazate
Some of the most famous movies ever made in Hollywood have been filmed in this charming city, from the sweeping sands of Lawrence of Arabia to the epic battles of Game of Thrones. And if you like movies or want to see some real Arabian beauty, you should stop here.
One of the best things to do in Ouarzazate is to visit the Atlas Film Studios, which have been used to make many hit movies. Take a tour of the studios and see where some of the biggest movie stars have worked. You can look at the sets from movies like The Mummy and Gladiator and the sound stages where they were made. Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just outside of Ouarzazate, for an even more immersive experience. Many movies, like Gladiator and Game of Thrones, have used this beautiful fortified village as a setting.
Imagine you are a member of the Lannister family or a Roman gladiator as you walk through the narrow streets. When you’re done looking at movie sets, you should go to the city’s main square, which has great restaurants and shops. And if you want to try something new, go out into the desert and explore the beautiful landscapes that have inspired movies for decades.
You can fly to Ouarzazate from Casablanca, Agadir, and other big cities. You can also take a bus from either Inezgane or Marrakech. And while you’re here, you should go to the Cinema Museum, one of the city’s most popular places to see. So go to Ouarzazate and see for yourself how magical the desert is.
