Morocco has it all: rugged mountains, golden Sahara dunes, ancient walled medinas, and Atlantic beaches. Its mix of Arab, Amazigh (Berber), African, and European influences makes it one of the most fascinating countries to visit, only a short flight from Europe. This Morocco travel guide covers the best time to visit, top attractions, hidden gems, bucket list experiences, and practical tips for getting around.
Best Time to Visit Morocco
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit, with warm days, cool evenings, and comfortable conditions for both cities and the desert. July and August are very hot inland, especially in Marrakech and the Sahara, though the Atlantic coast stays pleasant. Winter is mild on the coast but cold at night in the desert and mountains, where snow falls on the High Atlas. Read more in our guide to the best time to visit Morocco.
Top Attractions in Morocco
Marrakech
Morocco's most famous city (the capital is Rabat) is a sensory feast of souks, palaces, and gardens.
- The medina: A maze of alleys and souks selling lanterns, rugs, leather, spices, and dates.
- Jemaa el-Fna: The main square comes alive at dusk with food stalls, musicians, storytellers, and henna artists. Its storytelling and performance traditions are recognized by UNESCO.
- Jardin Majorelle: A cobalt-blue villa and garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, with the Berber Museum on site and the YSL Museum next door.
- Bahia Palace: A 19th-century palace with zellige tilework, painted cedar ceilings, and courtyards.
- High Atlas day trip: Visit Imlil and the Ourika Valley, or hike in Toubkal National Park beneath Jebel Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak.
Fez
Morocco's oldest imperial city has one of the largest car-free medieval medinas in the world.
- Fes el-Bali: A UNESCO-listed medina of thousands of alleys, full of artisans' workshops. Consider hiring an official guide on your first day.
- Chouara Tannery: Watch leather being dyed in stone vats from the terraces of the surrounding shops.
- Nejjarine Museum: A museum of wooden crafts in a restored caravan inn, with a rooftop café.
- Bou Inania Madrasa: A 14th-century theological school with exquisite carved plaster and cedar.
- Jnan Sbil: Shady gardens for an evening stroll.
Chefchaouen
Set in the Rif Mountains, this town is famous for its blue-washed lanes. Wander the medina, relax in Plaza Uta el-Hammam, walk up to the Spanish Mosque for sunset, and hike in the nearby Talassemtane and Bouhachem nature parks to the Akchour waterfalls and the "Bridge of God" rock arch.
Essaouira
This windswept Atlantic port has a UNESCO-listed 18th-century medina, sea ramparts, art galleries, and a busy fishing harbor with rows of blue boats. Eat grilled fish at the port, walk the long beach, or try windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Casablanca
Morocco's largest city is a modern business hub with Mauresque and Art Deco architecture. Visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world and one of the few in Morocco open to non-Muslims on guided tours, then walk the seafront promenade toward El Hank Lighthouse.
Hidden Gems in Morocco
- Erg Chigaga: Remote, wild dunes reached by 4x4 from M'Hamid, quieter than Merzouga's Erg Chebbi.
- Mirleft and Sidi Ifni: Laid-back surf towns with dramatic Atlantic beaches.
- Skoura: Palm groves and kasbahs, a good base for the Dades Gorge and Todra Gorge.
- Aït Benhaddou: A UNESCO-listed fortified village of earthen buildings, used as a backdrop in many films.
Morocco Bucket List Experiences
- Sleep under the stars at a desert camp in the Sahara.
- Relax in a traditional hammam.
- Eat your way around Jemaa el-Fna at night.
- Trek to the summit of Jebel Toubkal.
- Learn to cook tagine and couscous in a cooking class.
- Sip mint tea on a riad rooftop.
- Bargain for crafts in the souks, politely and with a smile.
- Surf the Atlantic waves at Taghazout or Imsouane.
Morocco Travel Tips
- Entry requirements: Citizens of many countries, including the EU, the United Kingdom, the United States, and GCC states, can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Others may need an e-Visa. Check the official rules for your passport.
- Language: Arabic and Amazigh are the official languages, and Moroccan Arabic (Darija) is spoken daily. French is widely used, and English is common in tourist areas. "Salam" means hello and "shukran" means thank you.
- Currency: The Moroccan dirham (MAD). Cards are accepted in hotels and larger shops, but you will need cash for souks, taxis, and small cafés.
- Getting around: Trains run by ONCF are comfortable, and the Al Boraq high-speed line links Tangier, Rabat, and Casablanca. CTM and Supratours buses cover longer routes. Petit taxis work within cities, and shared grand taxis link towns. Royal Air Maroc flies between major cities.
- Plugs: Type C and E plugs, 220 V.
- Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially outside big cities. Ask before photographing people. Most mosques are closed to non-Muslims.
- Guides and touts: Politely decline unofficial guides in the medinas, and use licensed guides booked through your accommodation.
Stay Connected in Morocco
Navigating a medina is much easier with offline maps and mobile data. An egoViet Morocco eSIM connects as soon as you land, and our Morocco eSIM guide helps you choose a plan.
FAQs: Morocco Travel Guide
How many days do you need in Morocco?
Ten days to two weeks lets you see Marrakech, Fez, Chefchaouen, and the Sahara. With a week, combine Marrakech with a desert trip or the Atlas Mountains.
Is Morocco safe for tourists?
Morocco is generally safe for tourists. Watch out for pickpockets and scams in busy medinas, avoid isolated areas at night, and respect local customs.
What currency is used in Morocco?
The Moroccan dirham (MAD). Carry cash for markets and small shops.
What is the capital of Morocco?
Rabat is the capital of Morocco. Casablanca is the largest city, and Marrakech is the most visited.