10 Best Places in Morocco to Visit You Can’t Miss

Morocco is one of those countries that just intrigues and excites; it’s the kind of country that’s totally diverse, with a heap of the best places in Morocco dotted all across the country. There’s just something so special about visiting Morocco’s epic places.

With its stunning Arabesque architecture, souks and even blue-coloured cities (yup, you read that correctly), it’s unlike so many places you can visit. Plus, it’s only a few hours’ flight from some of the major cities in Europe, so you can easily tag on for a week-long holiday (if you fancy).

That being said, Morocco is certainly a destination to visit in its own right. You’ll be totally spoilt for choice with all the best places in Morocco, and this is why planning is key. Make sure to plan where, how and the logistics of getting around.

After all, you want to make your trip as seamless and enjoyable as you can.

And then there’s the landscape! We’re talking about the snow-capped Atlas mountains, the scorching Sahara desert (which actually should just be referred to as Sahara because Sahara is Arabic for deserts) and the colourful hills which are home to many Berber people.

Long story short, Morocco is fascinating. So, with that in mind, here are some of the very best places in Morocco you should visit. Have the best trip.

1.) Rabat

Let’s start off with the capital. Like most capital cities, Rabat is a popular tourist destination. It has two distinct main districts: the New Town and the Old Town. The New Town is the perfect place to do some shopping and enjoy the warm weather at the city’s open-air bars and cafes. For a busier and more historical vibe, the Old Town is packed with typical Moroccan souks (markets) and is a great place to explore and find some amazing handmade gifts. We love the area around Old Market (Google Maps pin).

As you explore Rabat, make sure to also see the Hassan Tower (Google Maps pin), which is part of the 900-year-old Minaret and still stands proudly to this day. Oh, and make sure to visit Chellah (Google Maps pin) and explore some of the ancient Roman ruins. It’s stunning.

Looking for the best hotel in Rabat? Make sure to book Riad Dar Rabiaa. It’s a historic riad in the centre of Rabat and is such a sanctuary in the city. Not only that, but the traditional and chic rooms are stunning. You will love it.

2.) Marrakech

This is the most popular of the lot and probably your gateway into wanting to see even more of Morocco. Visiting the best places in Marrakesh is like an attack on the senses; it’s vibrant, colourful, historic and totally amazing to visit.

The city’s historic Old Town (medina and souk area of Marrakesh) can only be described as an assault on the senses, but in the best possible way. Plus, the smells of spices, food and sometimes the tanneries are inescapable. For an authentic experience, embrace the chaos and stay within the city walls in a traditional Riad, then go shopping in the maze-like souks, too.

Oh, and be sure to explore the Bahia Palace; it’s one of the best places in Morocco to visit. Also, don’t forget about visiting Ben Youssef Madrasa (Google Maps pin), a historic Islamic school that has recently been restored and is absolutely stunning inside. It’s so beautiful and well worth visiting for an hour or so.

Now, to make things easier, we have written a dedicated blog post on what to see, do and eat in Marrakesh, here. This way, you can really deep-dive into all the experiences and places you have to see in the city when you visit. Marrakesh is amazing.

Seeking one of the finest riads in Marrakech? Make sure to book Riad Sofia. It’s a stunning and intimate riad in the heart of old Marrakesh, and it’s so beautiful to stay in the city. It’s beautiful and the whole team are amazing.

3.) Toubkal National Park and Jebel Toubkal

At a height of 4,167m, the hike to the peak of Jebel Toubkal is by no means a gentle stroll. That being said, they do say that nothing good comes easy. Honestly, this will never feel as true as when you’re admiring the view from the highest point of the Atlas Mountains.

If you don’t think you can make it to the top, the park itself is stunningly beautiful to explore. At only 70km from Marrakech, it’s a brilliant place to recover from the hustle and bustle of the city. It really is one of the best places in Morocco to visit, even for a day trip from Marrakech.

4.) Sidi Ifni

The most fascinating thing about this fishing town in the southwest of Morocco is its Spanish heritage. Interestingly, Sidi Ifni was originally a Spanish territory, and traces of this are still visible today. Whilst it’s relatively small and not as packed with attractions as the big cities, Sidi Ifni is warm all year round, the atmosphere is friendly and upbeat, and the beaches are absolutely beautiful. Once you’re in the area, make sure to also visit Legzira Beach (Google Maps pin).

This coastline is famous for its iconic arches. Yes, some have now collapsed, but you can see lots on the shoreline, and it’s so stunning. Plus, you get some of the best sunsets from this beach. It’s one of the best places in Morocco for a rather relaxed getaway, especially at the iconic Legzira Beach (as I mentioned).

5.) Asilah

You can often tell whether a place is worth visiting by seeing whether the locals bother with it or not. Since Asilah (Google Maps pin) is massively popular with Moroccan holidaymakers, it’s definitely a safe bet as a great place to visit.

There’s also a heap of Portuguese history that dates back to the 15th Century, too. Honestly, from the striking white-painted buildings to its beautiful coastline and the colourful murals adorning the city walls, Asilah is one of the unmissable yet frequently overlooked jewels of Morocco.

6.) Chefchaouen

This small town in the Rif mountains is famed for its quaint blue-painted houses, which give it a decidedly surreal look and feel.

If you’re looking to explore the natural side of Morocco from a civilised base, Chefchaouen (Google Maps pin) is the perfect place to do so.

You’ll have a view of the mountains from the end of pretty much every street, but if that isn’t enough, you can also go hiking or wild swimming nearby.

It’s easily one of the best places in Morocco to see that’s pretty iconic.

7.) Meknes

This walled imperial city was Morocco’s capital in the 17th century when the country was ruled by Sultan Moulay. Sultan’s mausoleum is still in place as one of the great attractions in the city today.

The vibe of Meknes (Google Maps pin) is quite laid back in comparison to Rabat and Marrakech, so it’s a good option if you’re looking for a more relaxed Moroccan city break. It’s also a great base for visiting the ruins of Volubilis, a fascinating and partly excavated Berber/ Roman city considered the capital of Ancient Mauretania.

8.) Fes

Though a fair few Moroccan cities have taken their turn at playing capital over the years, Fes managed the hold the title for an impressive 400 of them.

It’s a medieval city bursting with historic buildings, and it is fascinating to explore on foot. Once here, make sure to explore the 9th-century walled town of Fes El Bali and the Merenid Tombs, too. They’re totally stunning.

After all, the history in Morocco is so incredible and diverse to see.

9.) Essaouira

If Essaouira was good enough for Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley, it’s good enough for us. Essaouira is a small seaside town which has been famously popular with some big names. You can still see colourful murals and tributes to these music legends in the town today. Once in Essaouira (Google Maps pin), make sure to visit the area around Port of Essaouira Sqala and the City Walls (Google Maps pin). You’ll be all around the area of Moulay Hassan square, which is filled with small cafes, independent stores and riads.

Yes, Essaouira might be small, but it is a beautiful coastal town with a quaint harbour, perfect for escaping the stress of daily life.

10.) Merzouga

For a taste of something different, head out to the edge of the Saharan sand dunes to an area known as Erg Chebbi. Here, you’ll find Merzouga (Google Maps pin), a small town offering an authentic experience of Bedouin life.

The best way to explore the dramatic natural surroundings of Merzouga is on camelback or jeep; it’s a truly unforgettable experience and one of the best places in Morocco to visit if you want a desert adventure.