Are you looking for the perfect way to experience the best of Morocco’s culture, history, and beauty? If so, you’ve come to the right place! This 10-day Morocco itinerary will provide an unforgettable experience for both first-time and returning travelers alike. From bustling cities to remote villages, explore all that this incredible destination has to offer for 10 fabulous days.
Day 1: Start Your Morocco Itinerary in Marrakech
Start your journey in Marrakech with a visit to the Musee of Art and Culture of Marrakech (MACMA), a private museum dedicated to Moroccan art, culture, and history with diverse exhibits that showcase everything from traditional Berber artifacts to contemporary Moroccan art. Visiting a museum on the first day provides quick insights into Morocco’s cultural tapestry.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner in one of the many restaurants, which are also great nighttime spots, in the medina such as Rooftop Restaurant DarDar, Nomad, Comptoir Darna, or Dar Yacout.
Where to stay in Marrakech
Stay in one of many riads (guesthouses) such as Riad Star (great for a group of 20 or so friends), Riad Farnatchi, Riad Be, Riad Rafaele, Dar Darma, Riad Karmela, Riad Dar Hanane, El Fenn, Riad Wow, and Dar Housnia. For boutique luxury, book a stay at La Sultana, La Villa des Orangers, or Jnane Tamsna (20 minutes from the medina). For five-star luxury, book a stay at La Mamounia and Royal Mansour, two of the top hotels in the world.
Day 2: Continue Your Morocco Itinerary in Marrakech
No visit to Marrakech would be complete without exploring the gorgeous Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint-Laurent Museum, which together form a sanctuary of art, fashion, and nature. Stroll through the lush botanical garden, where the vibrant cobalt blue accents contrast with the verdant greenery.
The museum, which opened in 2017, celebrates Yves Saint-Laurent’s life and work through fascinating exhibits. Onsite, there’s also a Berber Museum, which showcases the unique history and arts of the Berber peoples of Morocco.
Next, venture to the Bahia Palace, an architectural masterpiece that embodies the opulence and grandeur of Moroccan design with delicate stucco work, carved cedar ceilings, sprawling courtyards, and colorful zellij tilework.
Visit the Saadian Tombs, where members of the Saadian dynasty are buried, and Dar el Bacha, a former palace turned museum that houses a remarkable collection of Moroccan art and craftsmanship.
Just a short walk away, Ben Youssef Madrasa, is not to be missed. This stunning example of Islamic architecture is one of the largest theological colleges in Morocco.
Day 3: Visit Shops and Souks in Marrakech
Shopping in Marrakech is a truly exhilarating experience that transports you to a vibrant world of colors, scents, and sounds.
As you wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the medina, you’ll find your senses overloaded by the aroma of spices wafting through the air and the beautiful handwoven textiles and carpets on seemingly every corner of the souks. With so many stimuli, you could fill each day of your Morocco itinerary with shopping!
Within the Marrakech medina, there are three main souks: Souk Semmarine, Souk Nejjarine, and Souk El-K. Among them, Souk Semmarine is the most traditional market, with its selection of textiles, carpets, leather goods, spices, and Moroccan handicrafts. Be prepared to spend all day haggling with vendors and wanting to bring home everything in sight.
After shopping, head to Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the city’s main square, for fresh juices made with every fruit imaginable. Around 5 pm, the square becomes a rowdy center of activity and street food market, where you can try a variety of local foods, from barbecue to potato cakes.
Day 4: Travel to Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate
Make your way to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive mud-brick villages in the country. Wander around the narrow alleyways and explore the old kasbahs, where some of the scenes from the movie Gladiator were filmed.
Continue to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, to visit the Taourirt Kasbah, an old fortress that was once home to the Glaoui family. You can also explore the nearby Atlas Film Studios, where many famous movies were filmed.
Related post: Places to Visit for Unique Morocco Holidays
Where to stay near Ouarzazate
Located in Skoura, approximately an hour east of Ouarzazate, L’Ma Lodge is a seven-room guesthouse offering a serene and tranquil retreat that seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape of lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
Day 5: Merzouga
On day 5, have free time at Todra Gorge before arriving at the Merzouga Desert, which is situated on the edge of the Sahara Desert.
Spend the night at Merzouga Luxury Desert Camps, a Bedouin glamping site tucked away in the captivating dunes of Merzouga. The desert camp has 15 opulent tents adorned with traditional Berber fabrics and decor, allowing visitors to fully unwind after a day spent exploring the breathtaking desert landscapes.
Among the most delightful experiences at the camp are watching the sunrise over the sand dunes and having a delicious Moroccan dinner under a canopy of stars.
Day 6: Fes
After a long day of travel from Merzouga, stop in Midelt for lunch before arriving in the oldest imperial city in Morocco, Fes. One of the most culturally-rich places in Morocco, Fes is a must-visit for any Morocco itinerary, even if you’ve been before.
Where to stay in Fes
Fes is a more laid-back city than Marrakech. Still, there’s no shortage of elaborate riads and palatial hotels to choose from. Stay at Riad Fes – Relais & Chateaux, Le Grand Alcazar, Riad Salam, Riad El Amine, Palais AMANI, Riad Layalina, Hotel Sahrai, Riad El Yacout, or Riad Palais Bahia Fes.
Day 7: Full Day in Fes
Take a guided tour of Fes, one of the oldest cities in Morocco. Visit the 9th-century medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll find a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling souks, and stunning examples of Islamic architecture, such as the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Stand in awe of Royal Palace and the 16th-century architecture of Borj Sud.
Within the medina, you can explore the renowned tanneries, where skilled artisans craft exquisite leather goods, ranging from bags and jackets to traditional babouche slippers. For those seeking the finest ceramics and pottery, the Place Seffarine is a must-visit destination, showcasing an array of intricately designed plates, tagines, and mosaic fountains.
In addition to these traditional crafts, Fes is also known for its stunning textiles, with the Dar Batha Museum providing an excellent opportunity to admire and purchase exquisite Berber carpets and handwoven fabrics.
Day 8: Day trip to Chefchaouen from Fes
Taking a day trip to Chefchaouen from Fes is definitely worth including in your Morocco itinerary. Known as the “Blue Pearl of Morocco” or the “Blue City,” the “blue-washed” buildings in this vibrant town create a truly magical atmosphere that has a calming effect on the senses.
While in Chefchaouen, be sure to visit the Kasbah Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts showcasing the region’s unique heritage.
Related: 5 Incredible Things to Do in Chefchaouen
Day 9: Travel to Rabat
On your way to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, stop to visit Volubilis and Meknes. The ruins at Volubilis transport you back to the days of the Roman Empire. The Basilica, the Triumphal Arch, and the Capitol are just a few Roman structures on the site, and you’ll also find remnants of olive oil presses and grand mansions.
Just a short drive from Volubilis lies the imperial city of Meknes, a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s royal history. Known as the “Versailles of Morocco,” Meknes is adorned with magnificent palaces, grand gates, and ornate mosques that reflect the opulence of the Alaouite dynasty. The iconic Bab Mansour gate serves as the gateway to the impressive Dar Jamai Palace, which now houses the Museum of Moroccan Arts.
After departing from Meknes, you’ll arrive in Rabat in approximately two hours driving. Take a tour of Rabat that includes the Hassan Tower, an emblematic symbol of the city; the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, located across from the tower; the Kasbah of the Udayas, a UNESCO World Heritage site; the ancient ruins of Chellah; and the Royal Palace of Rabat.
Art lovers should visit the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, which houses an impressive collection of Moroccan and international masterpieces. For a taste of local culture, visit the city’s small medina, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and sample local street food.
Where to stay in Rabat
Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses is one of the top hotels in Rabat, offering 229 rooms with contemporary furnishings, plush bedding, and modern amenities. The hotel is a hotspot for nightlife, and the hotel has a stunning pool and wonderful onsite restaurants like Golden Fish, which overlooks the pool.
For a more traditional riad experience, book a stay at Euphoriad. Located in the heart of the medina, this boutique riad artfully combines traditional Moroccan elements with modern design and amenities. Its rooftop is a wonderful place to dine or relax with panoramic views of the city and the distant ocean.
Day 10: Casablanca
End your Morocco itinerary with a visit to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and commercial capital of Morocco. Explore the modern architecture and take a stroll along the waterfront.
Makes sure to include a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, the second-largest mosque in Africa, as well as the Royal Palace of Casablanca, La Corniche, and the elegant Boulevard Mohammed V.
Where to stay in Casablanca
Four Seasons Casablanca offers luxury rooms and suites, upscale amenities, stunning coastal vistas, and world-class restaurants serving Moroccan and international cuisine. It’s definitely one of the city’s finest hotels.
With this Morocco itinerary, you’ll experience so many incredible sites, and if you’re able to spend 14 days in Morocco, I recommend adding two nights in Chefchaouen and 2 nights in Essaouira.
Have you visited Morocco before? What would you add to our 10-day Morocco itinerary?
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