Experience the different faces of Morocco on this one-week itinerary from Marrakech, taking you into the High Atlas Mountains and back down to the Atlantic Ocean. It allows you to experience the buzz of the city and the beauty of the countryside, not to mention the legendary hospitality of the Moroccan people.
This one week Morocco itinerary begins and ends in the storied city of Marrakech, famed for its mesmerising architecture, bustling souks and atmospheric riads. From Marrakech, journey high into the Atlas Mountains to the charming town of Imlil, from where you can tackle the summit of North Africa’s tallest peak or enjoy a more leisurely day hike. Then descend to the seaside city of Essaouira, a whitewashed gem with a UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina that is rapidly asserting itself as an artistic hub.
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While hiring a car gives you greater freedom and flexibility to complete this itinerary in a week, private transfers are also available for those who don’t feel comfortable driving in Morocco.
I recommend you rent a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, which offers free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have everything from compact automatics to manual vans, ensuring there’s something for all travel groups and driving styles.
For more information about self-driving in Morocco, check out my guide here.
7 day Morocco itinerary from Marrakech
Highlights:
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the Marrakech souks
Discover the architectural wonders of the Bahia Palace and Medersa Ben Youssef
Hike through the magnificent High Altas Mountains from the mountain town of Imlil
Experience Morocco’s version of sun, sand and surf on the Atlantic coast
Get lost in the UNESCO-listed medina of whitewashed Essaouira
One Week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech
Day 1 and 2: Marrakech
Begin your adventure in the red-hued city of Marrakech, which has good international flight connections from Europe and beyond. In the heart of the ancient medina, you'll find a mesmerising blend of colours, sounds and scents that makes this one of Morocco’s most captivating destinations.
Marrakech is also a shopper’s paradise, with its bustling souks filled with vibrant textiles, aromatic spices and talented craftsmen showcasing their skills. Foodies will find no shortage of inspiration, whether you want to take a Moroccan cooking class or eat your way through the city on a Marrakech street food tour. For architecture enthusiasts, the city's historic palaces and museums offer a glimpse into its rich heritage as a hub of trade and culture, with highlights including the 16th-century Medersa Ben Youssef and the gorgeous Bahia Palace.
For more recommendations of things to see and do in Marrakech, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Marrakech. More Marrakech travel inspiration can be found here.
I highly recommend staying in a riad while visiting Marrakech as the city is home to some of the country's best! From traditional to contemporary, these authentic Moroccan guesthouses come in all styles, many featuring courtyard plunge pools and rooftop terraces. To make your decision easier, I've compiled a list of the best riads in Marrakech and researched some of the most sustainable riads in Marrakech for an eco-conscious stay.
Best places to stay in Marrakech
Luxury places to stay in Marrakech
Mid-range places to stay in Marrakech
Budget places to stay in Marrakech
One week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech
Day 3 and 4: Imlil and Atlas Mountains
After a couple of days in Marrakech, you’ll be ready to escape the hustle of the city and head for the mountains. Less than two hours’ drive from Marrakech is Imlil, a hidden gem in the High Atlas that is renowned as the gateway to Jebel Toubkal - North Africa’s highest peak.
Located in the heart of the Toubkal Valley, the journey from Marrakech to Imlil is nothing short of awe-inspiring and offers a completely different take on Morocco after the bustling medina. As you wind your way up the mountainous road, the landscape undergoes a breathtaking transformation, from lush green foothills to majestic rocky peaks.
Imlil serves as an ideal starting point for trekking expeditions in the High Atlas Mountains, with many trails beginning right from the village itself. While the most popular two-day route leads to the summit of Jebel Toubkal, there are also shorter day hikes available. Even if you're not an experienced hiker, you can still immerse yourself in the stunning alpine scenery by taking leisurely walks through the neighbouring villages and soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.
For more info about the treks available from Imlil, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Imlil. It includes detailed information on how to get there, where to stay and things to do in the mountain town, as well as recommended options for guided treks.
Best places to stay in Imlil
Mid-range places to stay in Imlil
Budget places to stay in Imlil
7 day Morocco itinerary from Marrakech
Day 5 and 6: Essaouira
From Imlil, make the 3.5-4 hour journey to Essaouira, an enchanting whitewashed city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Once known as “Mogador”, the historic gem will transport you back to the 18th century, with ancient ramparts and atmospheric alleyways lined with stores selling aromatic spices and brightly coloured handicrafts.
Spend the next two days wandering the UNESCO-listed medina, which seamlessly blends Arab, Amazigh and European influences. Though once a bustling trade hub and seaport, Essaouira saw its prominence fade after Sultan Moulay Hassan reopened the port of Agadir in the late 1800s. While Agadir blossomed into the popular beach resort it is today, Essaouira settled into a peaceful existence, its rich history etched into peeling paint and crumbling stone.
Essaouira never fails to captivate with its old-world charm and character - it’s one of my favourite places in Morocco! It’s home to an increasing number of inspiring restaurants, cafes and bars, not to mention art galleries celebrating North African creatives. While you’re there, be sure to watch the sunset from the ramparts of Skala du Port and, if possible, coincide your visit with the Gnaoua World Music Festival that takes place each June. Essaouira is also a great spot for kite surfing, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.
For more info about things to see and do in Essaouira, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Essaouira. Additional Essaouira travel inspiration can be found here.
Best places to stay in Essaouira
Luxury places to stay in Essaouira
Mid-range places to stay in Essaouira
Budget places to stay in Essaouira
One week Morocco itinerary from Marrakech
Day 7: Marrakech
End your journey back in Marrakech where you can indulge in some last-minute shopping or stroll through the photogenic Jardin Majorelle. If time allows, I’d also recommend visiting the Saadian Tombs and the Dar Si Said Museum, which is notable for its collection of woven textiles and carpets.
In the evening, head to Djemaa El Fna to experience its after-dark entertainment and dine at one of the food stalls. Fringing the square are several rooftop cafes where you can enjoy a different perspective on the action down below.
Best places to stay in Marrakech
Luxury places to stay in Marrakech
Mid-range places to stay in Marrakech
Budget places to stay in Marrakech
Optional add-ons:
If you have an extra day or two, make the drive over the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass to the ancient ksar of Ait Benheddou, taking in the “Hollywood of Morocco” - Ouarzazate. Alternatively, experience some of the country’s most beguiling scenery on an adventure through the gorges of Dades and Todra, including a stop in the “Rose Capital” of Kalaat M’Gouna.
I recommend you rent a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, which offers free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have everything from compact automatics to manual vans, ensuring there’s something for all travel groups and driving styles.
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About the author
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 majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.