6 Must-See Destinations in Morocco: A Traveler’s Guide

Morocco is a land of contrast, and it is widely popular for its diverse landscape. From icy snow-capped mountains to dry desert, you can experience both. Every craggy alleyway or gently sloping desert dune tells a story.  

Whether it is the imperial cities' architectural splendor, the Atlas Mountains' majesty's austerity, or the serene coastal havens, a lifelong adventure awaits you in Morocco. Traveling across this beautiful country enlightens you with rich customs, traditions, and a welcoming environment.   

Ultimately, this gem of North Africa is a delight for the senses.     

But with so much to discover, from where should you start?  

Don't worry!  

This article lists six of the destinations that should be on your bucket list when you touch down in Morocco. So, keep reading! 

1. Marrakech – The Vibrant Heart of Morocco 

Your visit to Marrakech will surely ignite a spark inside of you. It is an interesting, lively, vibrant city that resonates with the echos of the thousand years old tradition. This city is even known as the "Red City" because of its famous red terracotta walls.  

The place beautifully showcases the vivid dichotomy of history and contemporary age. You'll love every bit of it when you walk into the narrow passages of the Medina; its market is always filled with hand-crafted goods, spices, and elegant carpets.  

Visit Majorelle Garden to have a perfect, refreshing, and vivid start to the day. As the sun goes down, you can enjoy your evening at Jemaa el-Fnaa, a lively square filled with local street performers, food stalls, and musicians.   

To truly embrace the essence of Marrakech, having a well-planned journey makes all the difference. Thoughtfully curated best Morocco trip packages allow you to experience its wonders without missing a beat. And as the saying goes, "To travel is to live." Well, you feel this thing in every footstep in Marrakech: it is the heart of Morocco. 

2. Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl of Morocco 

Located somewhere in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is one of the most scenic cities in Morocco. It is commonly termed the "Blue Pearl" because the major proportion of the city's streets, walls, and windows are painted in different tints of blue.    

The locals say that the color is symbolic of heaven, whereas some also debate that it is the way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Whatever the reason, you will surely relish the enchanting, peaceful atmosphere of the blue city.   

Chefchaouen is a place where you can slow down, relax, and enjoy the beauty around you. Remember, travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. 

3. Ait Benhaddou – Morocco’s Cinematic Masterpiece 

You will feel immense pleasure while standing proudly at the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. Ait Benhaddou lies in this belt, and its mudbrick architecture is a stunning reminder of Morocco’s ancient past.  

This UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village) is a masterpiece of earthen architecture; its towering kasbahs and narrow passageways feel like they have frozen in time. But hey, the place may give you a Deja Vu; it’s because Hollywood has long been captivated by its beauty, and you must have encountered its landscape in many of the prominent movies or shows.  

Explore this city’s maze-like pathways, where centuries-old mudbrick homes whisper tales of Berber traders and caravans. Climb to the top for a sweeping view of the desert landscape, where ochre hues blend seamlessly with the sky.   

Ait Benhaddou is more than just a film set; it’s a gateway to Morocco’s rich heritage. As you walk through its storied walls, you’ll understand why history and adventure often go hand in hand. 

4. Essaouira – The Coastal Gem of Morocco 

Embrace the ocean breezes in Essaouira and relish its mouth-watering seafood; this is Morocco’s most captivating coastal city. With its laid-back vibe, whitewashed buildings, and sweeping Atlantic views, this seaside escape offers a refreshing contrast to the country’s bustling medinas.   

The historic Skala de la Ville, a fortress lined with bronze cannons, provides a breathtaking view of the crashing waves, while the vibrant port brims with blue fishing boats and the scent of freshly grilled seafood.  

Essaouira’s artistic soul is evident in its galleries, music festivals, and bohemian cafés.  

Stroll through the lively souks, where local artisans craft exquisite woodwork from fragrant thuya wood.   

For adventure seekers, the city’s steady winds make it a world-class spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. As the sun dips below the horizon, embrace the coastal calm, sip a mint tea, and let Essaouira’s magic wash over you.  

5. Fes – The Timeless Soul of Morocco 

Step back in time as you wander through the medieval streets of Fes, Morocco’s cultural and intellectual heart. Home to one of the world’s oldest universities, this city is a living museum brimming with history, artistry, and traditions that have endured for centuries.   

The UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali Medina, with its maze of 9,000 alleyways, transports you to an era of scholars, artisans, and traders. You can find skilled craftsmen dye leather in the ancient Chouara Tannery, where vibrant hues bring life to this centuries-old tradition.  

Visit the stunning Al-Qarawiyyin Library and Mosque, which has been there since 859 AD, and don’t forget to pay attention to the intricate tilework of Bou Inania Madrasa. As you navigate this labyrinth of heritage, the scent of freshly baked khobz (bread), mingled with the aroma of saffron and mint tea, will wrap you in an irresistible sensory experience.   

In Fes, history isn’t just preserved—it breathes, inviting you to explore its soul. 

6. The Sahara Desert – A Journey into the Infinite 

Nothing compares to the breathtaking vastness of the Sahara, where golden dunes stretch endlessly beneath an ever-changing sky. A camel trek across the rippling sands of Erg Chebbi is far more than just a ride—it’s a passage into a world of silence, mystery, and ancient nomadic traditions.  

Unspoiled by city life, you can spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, where the night sky unveils a dazzling display of stars. Sit around a crackling fire, listen to the hypnotic beat of desert drums, and experience a profound sense of peace as time slows.  

The Sahara desert isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling, an adventure that stirs the soul. As T.S. Eliot once said, “The journey, not the arrival, matters.” In the Sahara, every step is a story waiting to be told. 

Bottomline 

Morocco is a country of unlimited marvels, where each location is a new adventure, a new vision, and a tale to tell. From the energetic streets of Marrakech to the golden calm of the Sahara, each destination beckons you to explore beyond the normal and into the extraordinary. 

Whether you look for history, culture, nature, or peace, Morocco has it all to offer. So take a minute, text your friends or family, and start preparing for an experience whose memories will last an eternity.  

Let its colors, landscapes, and flavors be your guide. Not all those who wander are lost; thus, in Morocco, besides exploring the landscapes, you will find more of yourself than you could have ever dreamed.