It took me 31 years to visit Morocco, and now I can’t believe I slept on it for so long!
Towering mountains, vast desert, Mediterranean and Atlantic coastline – Morocco really does have it all. Add that to friendly people and fascinating culture, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect travel destination.
I visited Morocco twice in 2024, and loved it both times. So, I’ve put together my 10 day Morocco itinerary to help any future travellers with their trips to this wonderful country!
I vlogged both trips to Morocco and will be sharing my videos throughout, as well, but you can see my Morocco playlist on YouTube by clicking here.
This post contains affiliate links.
Arriving in Morocco
Most tourists arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport, which offers flights to European destinations (often with budget carriers).
Being Morocco’s tourist hub, it’s also the perfect place to begin your Morocco itinerary!
Do prepare for the wait at passport control, which can stretch over an hour.
Once you’re the other side, I’d recommend booking a transfer – they’re affordable and your driver will wait for you to go through immigration. Click here for a recommended transfer service.
The other thing I’d recommend doing at Menara Airport is securing a SIM card. I purchased one with 20GB of data for 20 euro (cash only) at the Maroc Telecom desk.
You can, of course, use eSIM cards as well, but I found them quite pricey for Morocco. I usually use Saily.
Where to stay in Marrakech
I’d recommend staying near Jema-el Fnaa Square or the Kasbah.
Our home base in Marrakech was Riad Farasha which was tucked into the kasbah. The unassuming exterior hides a luxe building filled with traditional Moroccan details.
There’s a plunge pool in the courtyard, three bedrooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the medina.
The staff at Riad Farsha greeted us with mint tea and traditional biscuits upon arrival and were available to cook us Moroccan breakfast every day.
Take a look at Riad Farsha on Airbnb.
On a budget? Be Nomad Hostel is a welcoming budget option in the heart of Marrakech, offering clean and air-conditioned rooms and a busy atmosphere.
The property boasts a shared kitchen, a charming garden and a rooftop terrace perfect for relaxing.
Marrakech – 4 nights
We spent four nights in Marrakech, but two of our days were day trips (so we only had one full day to explore the city).
It was a good amount of time to spend in the city, but if you have an extra day you could easily spend more time here.
One day in Marrakech
If you also have limited time (or even if you don’t, to be honest!) I recommend booking a private guided tour.
We did this fantastic tour with local guide Youssef. His tours are completely bespoke, so you can choose whatever attractions appeal to you most!
We began at the Koutoubia Mosque, where Youssef explained its significance both as a landmark but also as a historical hub for travellers and scholars.
The mosque’s design, inspired by date palms, reflects the North African tradition, and it shares architectural links with Seville’s Giralda.
From there, we explored the medina itself. Yousef pointed out details and told facts I would have missed on my own – such as, did you know that Marrakech originated as a trade hub for caravans?
Another must-visit is Ben Yousef Madrasa, which was once a school for Islamic scholars.
For lunch, I recommend Dar Cherifa (a riad turned restaurant), which serves Moroccan food in an elegant courtyard.
Hidden gems in Marrakech
Marrakech is full of surprises beyond its well-known landmarks, and a bespoke tour with Youssef is the perfect way to uncover them.
Tailored entirely to your interests, Youssef’s tours let you explore lesser-known spots at your own pace. Here are some of the hidden gems we visited on our tour:
- Music Museum: A quiet spot in the medina showcasing Moroccan music history, with beautifully adorned rooms and a rooftop café.
- Photography Museum: Tells the story of Morocco through photographs spanning 80 years, complete with a rooftop view.
- Leather Souk: One of Marrakech’s last traditional souks, featuring handmade leather goods and the unique Ballons d’Or shop, famous for its handcrafted footballs.
- Metalwork Souk: Vibrant with artisans creating household items and intricate designs; you can even try stencilling yourself.
- Traditional Bread Ovens: See how neighbourhood bread ovens supply homes and businesses, and try baking your own loaf.
- Behind the Hammams: Learn how traditional Moroccan hammams operate and their connection to bread ovens.
- Dar Bellarj: A peaceful arts foundation near the medina, offering free entry and showcasing Moroccan heritage.
Youssef’s tours are completely bespoke. He’ll take you wherever you’re curious to explore!
Take a look at my hidden gems in Marrakech blog post for more information, or here’s a link to book a tour with Youssef!
Spice Square and Jemaa el-Fnaa
We ended the tour at the Spice Square, where we had dinner at Ayaso (Cafe des Epices is also highly recommended) before wandering back to Jemaa el-Fnaa where we had a mint tea overlooking the square.
By day, Jemaa el-Fnaa is lined with juice vendors and market stalls, while the evenings bring storytellers, musicians, and street performers.
I have heard stories of people being catcalled or scammed at Jemaa el-Fnaa.
We didn’t experience anything like this, but we didn’t spend too long wandering through the square at night. I must stress that I experienced zero hassle in Marrakech (and all of Morocco).
Here’s my full Marrakech travel guide.
Day trip to Essaouira
As much as I LOVE Marrakech, it’s well worth getting out of the city on a couple of day trips! Essaouira is a historic walled city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, around a 2 hours and 45 minute car journey.
This was booked with Fes Day Tours, who run private tours all over Morocco. Our fantastic guide Said was great company, knowledgeable about the region and an excellent driver.
If you’re visiting on a budget, there are plenty of group tours available on Get Your Guide, such as this tour.
On the way, we stopped at an Argan oil cooperative, where local women produce high-quality oil for cooking and cosmetics. They are touristy, but these cooperatives support women’s livelihoods, and the products are high-quality and can’t be purchased elsewhere.
Shortly after the Argan Cooperatives, you’ll descend down the hill to Essaouira.
First, enjoy its bustling harbour, filled with fishing boats and the aroma of freshly caught seafood. Then, walk along the fortified city walls (entry 60 dirhams) for views of the ocean and a reminder of the city’s Portuguese and French colonial history.
Essaouira is also known for its handicrafts, and its medina is quieter and more relaxed compared to Marrakech.
Essaouira’s windy climate has also made it a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing – if you’re there in the right season, why not give it a try? Here’s a link to a two-hour kitesurfing lesson.
Day trip to the Atlas Mountains
Just over an hour from Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains transport you to a completely different world. Cooler air, winding roads, and peaceful Berber villages are a stark contrast to the energy of the city.
We also did this day trip with Fes Day Tours, but again, if you’re on a budget, group tours are available. Here’s a tour following the same route we took.
A stop at a mountain viewpoint is a must.
You’ll see clusters of traditional Berber homes blending into the landscape, with their earthy tones only interrupted by the bright colours of the primary schools – always the most vibrant buildings in the villages.
Agriculture and livestock are central to life here, with terraced fields and grazing animals dotting the scenery.
Setti Fatma, in the Ourika Valley, is one of the most popular stops.
Known for its waterfalls, it’s a great place to stretch your legs or simply enjoy the mountain air.
There are plenty of waterside restaurants to dine at here.
I also recommend visiting a Berber house. Our guide, Said, took us to a house that welcomes tourists – some have set up micro-businesses where they serve guests tea and demonstrate how it is made.
Sahara side trip (3 days)
We didn’t have time to visit the Moroccan Sahara, but I wish that we had!
Fes Day Tours also offer multi-day trips to the Sahara.
This tour in particular includes a scenic drive through Ifrane, cedar forests home to monkeys, and the Ziz Valley before arriving at a Berber desert camp for an overnight stay.
Day two starts with a camel trek at sunrise before exploring the Todgha Gorges and Dades Valley which is known for its dramatic rock formations.
On the final day, travel through the Rose Valley, visit the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, and tour the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou before crossing the Tichka Pass and reaching Marrakech.
This tour includes private transport, camel trekking and accommodation, with opportunities to stop and explore the unique Berber culture along the way.
Train to Fes (1 day)
You can fly from Marrakech to Fes, but (as someone who adores a train trip), I loved the train.
The 7-hour journey is ideal for anyone looking to relax and take in the scenery!
The train departs from Marrakech’s grand station, located about a 15-minute drive from the kasbah. There are plenty of places to grab breakfast or a coffee here.
I recommend first-class tickets are highly recommended – as they guarantee a seat in a comfortable six-seat compartment.
The cost upgrade from second class is minimal, and the extra comfort makes a big difference on longer journeys. Tickets can be booked in advance online through platforms like 12Go, or purchased directly at the station (be aware that tickets might sell out if you’re booking on the day).
Click here to purchase Marrakech to Fes train tickets with 12Go.
The train itself is spacious and clean, with large windows basking in views of Morocco’s landscapes.
Along the way, you’ll pass through Casablanca and Rabat – if you have time, and want to stop in either city, do!
I’ve heard that Rabat is well worth visiting for its old city, and there’s not as much in Casablanca but it’s recommended to visit the Hassan II Mosque, the third largest mosque in the world and the only one you can go inside.
I’d recommend contacting Fes Day Tours for transport from the station to your accommodation.
Fes – 2 nights
Fes is Morocco’s oldest city: it’s where Islam first arrived in the country, is home to the world’s oldest univeristy and its largest and oldest tannery.
It’s not as touristy as Marrakech, and it’s easy to get lost in the winding streets of the Marina.
Where to stay in Fes
We stayed in Riad Rcif and Spa. This is a traditional riad, once the home of Fes’s governor. The building is over 700 years old and has been meticulously restored, maintaining original features like fountains and tilework while incorporating modern comforts.
From the rooftop, the panoramic views of the medina and surrounding hills are breathtaking.
A delicious daily breakfast is included, and you can dine on the rooftop in the evening. Downstairs, you’ll find a traditional Moroccan hammam – it’s worth trying this out while you’re in the city!
Click here to read more about Riad Rcif and Spa.
A good budget option could be Funky Fes Hostel.
With clean and simple rooms—some featuring private bathrooms and seating areas—the hostel provides all the essentials, including free WiFi, a shared lounge, and a spacious terrace.
Click here for more information.
One day in Fes
The Medina of Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage site – it’s car-free and a maze of over 9,000 winding streets.
There’s a slower pace compared to Marrakech – donkeys replace scooters as the primary form of transport.
The medina is divided into various sections, including artisan quarters, vibrant markets and residential areas – each with its own unique atmosphere.
Every neighbourhood has four essential facilities: a fountain, a mosque, a hammam and a bread oven.
And, if you have a guide, you’ll be able to get under the skin of daily life and see what Fes is really like!
Things to see in Fes
Fes is home to the world’s oldest university, Al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 CE by a woman named Fatima al-Fihri.
You can’t go inside the university, but you can admire its beautifully intricate architecture from the entrance.
Nearby, the city is home to the world’s oldest tannery, where leather is still processed using traditional methods.
There’s also the mausoleum of Moulay Idris II; the ruler of Morocco who is creitied with bringing Islam to the nation. Non-Muslims are not permitted inside, but it’s worth passing to admire from the exterior.
The medina’s markets feel authentic and lively, with distinct sections for fish, vegetables, and other goods.
The city is also renowned for its artisans, including copperworkers and mosaic craftsmen.
You can see their intricate work up close, from hammering copper into beautiful shapes to creating mosaics using locally sourced clay – and of course, if you want to buy any souvenirs, that’s welcome!
Travel to Chefchouen + afternoon in Chefchouen
Now, it’s time to head north!
How to get to Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen, known as the “Blue City,” is located in Morocco’s Rif Mountains.
To reach this picturesque destination from Fez, you can take a local bus, tourist shuttle or private transfer. The journey takes around four hours (long if you’re going by public bus), winding through scenic mountain roads.
Along the way, you might pass spots like the Barrage Shahad, a reservoir that provides water and electricity to the region.
You can book both private and shared transfer services by clicking this link.
Alternatively, click here to book a bus between Fes and Chefchouen on 12go.
We actually travelled from Fes to Chefchouen to Tangier in a day, only spending a few hours in the Blue City before heading north.
However, I’d definitely recommend spending longer if you have more time.
We used this service for our transfer: Samir picked us up from Fes, drove us to Chefchouen and waited for us for a few hours before taking us to Tangier.
Take a look at the service by clicking here.
Where to stay in Chefchaouen
We didn’t actually stay in Chefchaouen, but I loved the look of Dar Sababa. It’s a charming and upscale stay in Chefchaouen, combining modern comforts with traditional Moroccan design.
Located in the heart of the Medina, this riad boasts well-furnished rooms, a terrace with city and mountain views, and a delicious daily breakfast, including vegetarian options. Click here for more information and to book.
If I was on a budget, I’d book Hotel Abi Khancha – budget-friendly accommodation in the heart of the Medina. Featuring traditional Moroccan decor, clean rooms, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views, it’s ideal for exploring nearby attractions like the Kasbah.
Amenities include free WiFi, a shared kitchen and airport shuttle services. Click here for more information and to book.
One day in Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen’s charm lies in its tranquil streets and vibrant blue-painted buildings.
The city dates back to the 15th century when it was established as a fortress against Spanish and Portuguese invaders.
Over time, Jewish refugees and Andalusian settlers added to its character.
Start your visit at El Hauta Square, a hub of activity with cafés offering a variety of Mediterranean-influenced dishes.
From the square, you can explore the 14th-century fortress, which houses a museum and a peaceful garden.
Wandering through the medina is a highlight.
Enjoy mint tea served in tall glasses at a local café and soak in one of Morocco’s most charming cities.
How to get from Chefchaouen to Tangier
From Chefchaouen, Tangier is about a two-hour drive.
Private transfers are the quickest and most comfortable option, especially if you have luggage or limited time.
You can book a private transfer by clicking this link.
Or, book a shared transfer using this link.
Along the route, the scenery transitions from the Rif Mountains to coastal plains.
1-2 nights in Tangier
Tangier is situated at the meeting point of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean and is the ideal place to end your Morocco itinerary.
Where to stay in Tangier
I stayed in the gorgeous Riad Al Qurtubi – a beautifully restored traditional riad in Tangier’s medina. Each room is uniquely decorated, with intricate tiling, carved woodwork, and elegant furnishings.
The highlight is the private hammam in some rooms!
Each morning, a delicious breakfast features Moroccan pastries, honey and local olives is served from the rooftop, with incredible vistas of the sea.
Click here to read more about Riad Al Qurtubi
Eftalya Hostel Tanger is a budget-friendly option in Tangier, with clean dormitories, free WiFi and a shared kitchen. Located near Tangier Municipal Beach and Tanger City Mall, it’s home to a private beach area, cosy lounge and daily breakfast options. Click here to read more.
One day in Tangier
Spend your morning exploring the medina and kasbah, where winding alleys lead to vibrant markets and quieter residential streets.
The medina quickly transitions from bustling shops to peaceful corners,
Stop by the Phoenician Tombs, which date back over 3,000 years, for breathtaking views across the Strait of Gibraltar.
On a clear day, you can even see Spain in the distance. Just on from the tombs, you’ll find Café Hafa, Tangier’s most famous cafe which has drawn visitors since the 1920s.
I also highly recommend the Ibn Battuta Museum which is dedicated to the famed Moroccan explorer – here, you can learn about his incredible journeys across the known world.
As the day winds down, explore the Grand Socco, where the kasbah meets the newer part of the city.
The lively square is home to fountains, colourful minarets and market stalls.
Either – fly back from Tangier, take a ferry to Spain or travel to Casablanca and Rabat
Tangier is perfectly placed to travel to Spain (sail from the city port to Tarifa, or Tangier Med to Algeciras), or there is a small international airport with flights to Spain, France and limited other routes.
Alternatively, hop on the high-speed train that connects Tangier with Casablanca and Rabat (tickets here), or try out Morocco’s sleeper train that heads back to Marrakech (tickets here)!
I’m going to be writing lots more guides to Morocco, including safety, food, when to visit, what to pack and some city guides.
If you don’t want to miss them (and I recommend you don’t!), follow me on YouTube or Instagram where I’ll keep you updated.
