Best Travel Destinations in Morocco: Top Places to Visit in 2026

Discover the best travel destinations in Morocco, from the bustling souks of Marrakech and the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the windswept dunes of the Sahara Desert.

With its ancient medinas, spellbinding desert landscapes and whitewashed coastal cities, Morocco is a country that captures the imagination. Sitting at the crossroads of Africa and Europe, it offers a unique blend of cultures, architecture and landscapes that have to be seen to be believed.

But if you’re short on time, where are the best places to visit in Morocco for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? 

In this article, I’ll highlight some of the top travel destinations in Morocco (dare I say the most popular travel destinations in Morocco) that belong on every itinerary.

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Marrakech – Morocco’s Ochre-Hued Heartland

If you only have time to visit one city in Morocco, most people head to Marrakech. Nicknamed the “Red City” for its ochre-hued walls, it really is a feast for the senses and definitely one of the most popular travel destinations in Morocco. 

The Marrakech souks are legendary, the rooftop restaurants are a foodie’s dream and there are some beautifully preserved buildings to discover. 

That being said, Marrakech can be intense and it really does provide only a single perspective on Morocco. I’d highly recommend venturing beyond the city limits (even if it’s only for a day trip or two) to experience life outside the medina madness. 

For more information about visiting the “Red City”, check out my detailed travel guide to Marrakech. You’ll find some of the best day trips from Marrakech here.

Top things to do in Marrakech:

• Wander the courtyards of Bahia Palace and gaze up at the towering minaret of Koutoubia Mosque.
• Visit some of Marrakech’s excellent museums – the Museum of Culinary Arts and Le MAP are my favourites.
• Shop for spices and handicrafts in one of the many souks, each of which has a different specialty.
• Enjoy a rooftop dinner at one of Marrakech’s globally-inspired restaurants while listening to the call to prayer ring out across the city.
• Overnight in one of the city’s gorgeous riads – from affordable to ultra-luxurious, there are options for all budgets.

Fes – The Cultural Heart of Morocco

Home to the world’s oldest university, Fes is the cultural capital of Morocco and one of its most fascinating cities. There are some beautifully preserved madrasas here, not to mention excellent museums and an endless array of souks. 

As with Marrakech, it can be intense! But there’s no denying that Fes is one of the most popular travel destinations in Morocco.

Fes el-Bali is the city’s UNESCO-listed medina – wandering here really does feel like stepping back in time. You can watch traditional leather-making at the Chouara Tannery, learn the secrets of Fassi cuisine at a hands-on cooking class or simply gaze out across the city from one of Fes’s many rooftop restaurants. 

For more information about visiting Morocco’s “Cultural Capital”, check out my detailed travel guide to Fes. You’ll find some of the best day trips and tours in Fes here.

Top things to do in Fes:

• Watch the workers in action from one of the terraces overlooking the Chouara Tannery.
• Get up close to Moroccan arts and crafts at the Dar Batha Museum of Islamic Arts.
• Discover beautifully carved objects at the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts.
• Feast on Fassi specialties – Fes has a cuisine that’s all its own!
• Overnight in one of the city’s traditionally designed riads.

Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl of Morocco

Tucked into the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is (arguably) Morocco’s most picturesque town. Its blue-painted streets, relaxed atmosphere and mountain views make it one of the best travel destinations in Morocco for photographers and solo travellers.

The laid-back vibe is perfect for unwinding after the chaos of Morocco’s larger cities and the fresh mountain air never fails to invigorate. If you’re craving a nature fix, several hiking trails depart from the town itself and the cascades of Talassemtane National Park are just a short drive away. 

For more information about visiting Morocco’s “Blue Pearl”, check out my detailed travel guide to Chefchaouen. You’ll find some of the best hikes in the Rif Mountains here.

Top things to do in Chefchaouen:

• Wander through the blue streets of the medina where photography opportunities await around every turn.
• Hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views across Chefchaouen’s white and blue buildings.
• Shop for handwoven blankets and artisanal crafts in the local stores.
• Enjoy a freshly squeezed orange juice or fruit cup overlooking the cascades of Ras el-Maa.
• Stay at a boutique “casa” with a roaring fireplace where you can cosy up at night.

Sahara Desert – Camel Trekking Through the Dunes

For many, a trip to Morocco isn’t complete without visiting the Sahara Desert and spending the night at a traditional Amazigh camp. It’s an opportunity to go camel trekking through the dunes, sandboarding at sunrise and experience some of the best stargazing in North Africa!

There are two major gateways to Morocco’s slice of the Sahara Desert. Merzouga (on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes) is the most popular and has the largest choice of camps. Meanwhile, M’Hamid (on the edge of Erg Chigaga) offers a slightly quieter experience. 

If you don’t want to spend the night at a camp, there are also some incredible kasbah hotels in Merzouga and M’Hamid where you can enjoy a slightly more upmarket experience. 

For more information about visiting the Sahara, check out my detailed article here. You’ll can learn more about the difference between Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga here.

Top things to do in the Sahara Desert:

• Ride a camel across the dunes at sunset to experience the light at its most atmospheric.
• Camp overnight in a traditional Amazigh tent, complete with home-cooked meals and fireside music.
• Experience an incredible sunrise and sunset over the dunes, stretching as far as the eye can see.
• Stay up after dark for outstanding stargazing, far from the light pollution of the big cities.
• Whizz down the dunes on a sandboard or explore the desert villages on a quad-biking adventure.

Essaouira – The Best Coastal Destination in Morocco

For a relaxed seaside escape, head to Essaouira, a charming port city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Once known as “Mogador”, its whitewashed medina exudes a bohemian vibe, with eclectic cafes, abundant art galleries and excellent boutique shopping. 

Beyond its UNESCO-listed streets, you’ll find a long stretch of sand that’s popular with beachgoers and windsurfers when the conditions are right. Essaouira isn’t nicknamed the “Windy City” for no reason! 

Nearby you’ll find some of the best seafood in Morocco – Essaouira’s fish market is legendary. 

For more information about visiting historic Mogador, check out my detailed travel guide to Essaouira. You’ll find some of the best art galleries in Essaouira here.

Top things to do in Essaouira:

• Visit some of the many art galleries and concept stores to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
• Select your seafood at the fish market and have it grilled to perfection at one of the barbecue stands.
• Watch sunset over the Atlantic Ocean from the ramparts of Skala de la Kasbah.
• People-watch at one of Essaouira’s eclectic cafes, which serve everything from tagines to Western-inspired brunch dishes.
• Stay at one of the stunning villas in the Essaouira countryside for a taste of the Mediterranean in Morocco.

Casablanca – The Modern Face of Morocco

Often overlooked by tourists, Casablanca offers a more contemporary take on Morocco. While it can be brash and bustling, it’s definitely worth a visit in my opinion for at least one very BIG reason. 

Casablanca is home to the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world and a building you have to see to believe. It’s the only mosque in Morocco that non-Muslims are permitted to enter and it’s absolutely gorgeous!!

Additionally, Casablanca boasts some impressive Art Deco buildings, which add a European flair to this cosmopolitan city. Even if it’s only for a day, I think Casa is one of the best travel destinations in Morocco for architecture fans. 

For more information about visiting Morocco’s biggest city, check out my detailed travel guide to Casablanca. Not sure whether to visit Casablanca or Rabat? Discover which one is right for you here.

Top things to do in Casablanca:

• Gaze in awe at the exterior of the Hassan II Mosque before a guided tour of the interior.
• Dine, shop and enjoy the nightlife along La Corniche, Casablanca’s oceanfront strip.
• Discover some of the Art Deco landmarks (and street art) in downtown Casablanca.
• Ride the train to Morocco’s laid-back capital, Rabat.
• Embark on a day trip to the UNESCO-listed Cité Portugaise fortress of El Jadida.

Atlas Mountains – Adventure and Natural Beauty

Separating Morocco’s Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines from the Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains stretch northeast to southwest across the country.

They provide a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with cascading waterfalls and endless hiking trails to explore. Undoubtedly, the most popular is to the summit of North Africa’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal.

For those seeking a gentler adventure, there are plenty of wonderful spots where you can relax and soak up the Atlas scenery. Whether you want to drink in the mountain views from Imlil or dine with your feet submerged in the rushing waters of the Ourika Valley, it’s easy to access this natural wonder on a day trip from Marrakech.

If you want to visit the Atlas Mountains as part of a guided tour, I’ve highlighted some of the best options here. Alternatively, discover some of the most amazing hotels in the Atlas Mountains to base yourself.

Top things to do in the Atlas Mountains:

• Trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal for sweeping views across the Atlas Range.
• Embark on a day trip to Ourika Valley from Marrakech.
• Overnight in one of the traditional guesthouses in the Amazigh town of Imlil.
• Drive over the spectacular Tizi ’n’ Tichka Pass from Marrakech to Ouarzazate.
• Spot Barbary macaques in the cedar forests near the Swiss-inspired town of Ifrane.

Meknes + Volubilis – History and Heritage

Just a short train ride from Fes is Meknes, which once served as an imperial capital of Morocco. Its grand gates, royal stables and traditional markets make it a rewarding stop and one of the best places to visit in Morocco for history buffs.

Nearby, the Roman ruins of Volubilis showcase Morocco’s ancient past, with beautifully preserved mosaics and stone columns surrounded by rolling countryside.

Day trips from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis often include a stop in Moulay Idriss, considered one of Morocco’s most important spiritual destinations.

Still wondering if Meknes is worth visiting? Discover 7 reasons why I think it is here.

Top things to do in Meknes and Volubilis:

• Explore the centuries-old ruins of Volubilis and learn about the southwestern extent of the Roman Empire.
• Learn about Morocco’s imperial history while wandering the well-preserved streets of Meknes.
• Marvel at magnificent Bab Mansour, one of Africa’s most impressive gates.
• Soak up the views across Moulay Idriss, home to the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II (the founder of Fes).

Ouarzazate + Aït Benhaddou – Morocco’s Movie Landscape

Nicknamed the “Door to the Desert,” Ouarzazate is Morocco’s cinematic capital, where countless films have been shot. On approach to this desert city, you can see why it was chosen as a setting for movies such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. 

Aside from its famed Atlas Studios, Ouarzazate serves as a gateway for discovering some of the ancient kasbahs and ksour that dot the surrounding landscape. 

Most notable of these is Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed ksar and one of the most popular travel destinations in Morocco. Its fortified earthen design is wonderful to wander and the photographic opportunities are sublime!

For more information about visiting Ouarzazate, check out my detailed travel guide. Everything you need to know about exploring Ait Benhaddou is outlined here.

Top things to do in Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou:

• Photograph Aït Benhaddou in the “golden light” at sunrise or sunset.
• Discover the film studios and desert sets around Ouarzazate.
• Embark on a guided walk through the Fint Oasis.
• Explore the well-preserved Kasbah Taourirt for a glimpse into life here in times gone by.
• Overnight in one of the atmospheric kasbah hotels of Skoura, home to a bird-filled palmeraie.

Agadir + Taghazout – Morocco’s Surf Coast

For sun-seekers, Agadir offers miles of sandy beaches, modern resorts and relaxed vibes – it’s the ultimate all-inclusive travel destination in Morocco.

Rebuilt after a 1960 earthquake, the city boasts a clean, contemporary layout with excellent restaurants and one of the biggest undercover markets in the country, Souk El Had.

Agadir also serves as a gateway to Taghazout, a colourful Amazigh village that has become the Moroccan capital of surfing. There are waves for all levels along the surrounding coastline, including the legendary “Anchor Point”. If you don’t want to go it alone, there are plenty of surf schools offering guided instruction.

Just inland from Agadir and Taghazout is Paradise Valley, a palm-studded landscape that’s renowned for its natural rock pools, perfect for a day trip.

For more information about visiting Agadir, check out my detailed travel guide. Everything you need to know about surfing in Taghazout is outlined here.

Top things to do in Agadir + Taghazout:

• Dine at one of the beachfront restaurants overlooking Plage d’Agadir.
• Ride the cable car to Agadir’s hilltop kasbah ruins for sweeping views across the city.
• Tackle the surf breaks surrounding Taghazout, either independently or with a local surf school.
• Explore the natural pools and desert landscapes of Paradise Valley.
• Enjoy a hassle-free vacation at one of Agadir’s highly-rated all-inclusive resorts.

Final Thoughts: Where to Go in Morocco

Whether you want to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the Marrakech medina or escape to the hiking trails of the Atlas Mountains, Morocco offers experiences for all travellers. 

In Essaouira, you can spend the morning shopping in the souks before an afternoon on the sand. Meanwhile, Chefchaouen is like a blue-hued dream on the doorstep of picturesque cascades.

The best travel destinations in Morocco showcase the country’s rich history, cultural heritage and natural charm, not to mention the unforgettable spirit of its people. 

Deciding where to go in Morocco depends on your personal interests, the time you have available and the season you are visiting. For more information about each destination, check out the travel guide links I have provided above. Each comes complete with information on what to do, where to stay and the best time to visit. 

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.

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