Best Places to Visit in Morocco | Top Cities & Destinations

The Imperial Cities: Where History Gets Real

Okay, so here's the thing about Morocco in 2025—it's having a If you're going to Morocco for the first time, start here. Seriously. Marrakech is like Morocco's greatest hits album—everything you've imagined about the country is right here, cranked up to eleven.

The main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, is absolutely bonkers. During the day it's pretty chill, but come evening? It's like a medieval carnival on steroids. You've got storytellers (even if you don't speak Arabic, they're mesmerizing), musicians, and food stalls selling everything including—wait for it—snail soup. Yeah, I tried it. It's... an experience.

Don't miss the Majorelle Garden—it's this gorgeous blue oasis that used to belong to Yves Saint Laurent. Perfect for when Marrakech starts feeling like too much (and it will). The Koutoubia Mosque is stunning, and the Bahia Palace will make you feel like you're in a fairy tale.

Pro tips from someone who's made all the mistakes: hit the souks early in the morning for better prices and fewer crowds, stay in a traditional riad (just maybe ask about noise levels first—those courtyards can get echoey), and definitely do a hammam. It's like a spa day, Moroccan style.

Fair warning: Marrakech can be overwhelming. But stick with it—the city rewards patient explorers with some seriously magical moments.

Okay, so here's the thing about Morocco in 2025—it's having a If If Marrakech is Morocco's greatest hits, Fez is the deep cuts that only true fans appreciate. This place is the real Morocco—no sugar-coating, no tourist-friendly modifications. It's raw, authentic, and absolutely fascinating.

The medina here is insane—we're talking 9,000 narrow alleys that form this medieval maze. I got lost for three hours once and honestly? Best three hours of my trip. But seriously, get a local guide. It's worth every dirham because these guys know stories and shortcuts that'll blow your mind.

You've got to see Al-Qarawiyyin University (world's oldest university, no big deal) and the Chouara Tannery. Just... prepare yourself for the smell. The locals aren't lying when they say it's "unique but smelly." Bring some mint leaves to hold under your nose—trust me on this one.

Fez demands patience, but if you're looking for authentic Morocco without the tourist polish, this is your place.

Everyone skips Meknes, and honestly? Their loss. It's like Fez's cooler, less crowded little brother. You get all the imperial city vibes without fighting through tour groups for photos.

The gate Bab Mansour is absolutely stunning, and you can actually appreciate it without someone's selfie stick in your face. If you want that authentic imperial city experience with fewer people, this is your spot.

Desert and Mountains: Nature's Show-Offs

I don't care how many nature documentaries you've watched—nothing prepares you for the actual Sahara. The desert around Merzouga is where you want to go, and honestly, everyone I know who's done the camel trek calls it their best travel experience ever.

Picture this: you're on a camel at sunset, the dunes are literally glowing gold, and then you spend the night in a desert camp under more stars than you knew existed. Plus, sandboarding down massive dunes? Pure adrenaline rush.

The silence out there is something else. It's like someone turned off the world's volume, and suddenly you can hear yourself think again.

If you're into hiking, the Atlas Mountains are calling your name. Jbel Toubkal is North Africa's highest peak, and the trek is challenging but totally doable for anyone in decent shape. The village of Imlil is where most treks start, and the Berber hospitality there is incredible.

Don't miss Todra Gorge and Dades Valley—these places look like they're from another planet. The contrast between green farmlands and towering red canyon walls is absolutely stunning.

This place is basically Morocco's Hollywood. They filmed Gladiator and Game of Thrones here, and you can tour the studios. The kids (and adults, let's be honest) love it.

And Ait Benhaddou? It's this ancient fortified city that's been in more movies than most actors. UNESCO World Heritage site, completely Instagram-worthy, and fascinating to explore.

Coastal Chill: Where You Can Finally Relax

Okay, yes, it's totally Instagram-famous now, but Chefchaouen earned that reputation. Every building is painted in different shades of blue, and it's nestled in these beautiful mountains. It's like walking through a dream.

Go early morning or late afternoon for the best photos (and fewer crowds). The Spanish Mosque viewpoint has killer sunset views, and if you've got time, the Akchour waterfalls nearby are like something out of Jurassic Park.

Best part? It's way cheaper than you'd expect for such a famous spot.

This coastal town is perfect when you need a break from all the cultural intensity. Beautiful beaches, great seafood, and the medina here is way more manageable than the inland cities. Plus, it's one of the few places in Morocco with actual nightlife.

The windsurfing and kitesurfing here are fantastic if you're into water sports. And watching the fishermen bring in their daily catch at the colorful port? Totally authentic and not touristy at all.

Tangier's got this unique vibe because it's right where the Mediterranean and Atlantic meet. The white medina houses are gorgeous, and honestly, the medina here is way less overwhelming than Marrakech or Fez—perfect if you're feeling a bit nervous about the whole experience.

Great day trips from here too: the Hercules Caves are mysterious and cool, and Asilah is this quiet coastal town that's perfect for chilling out.

Casablanca gets a bad rap, but I actually love it. Yeah, it's grittier than other Moroccan cities, but it's got this urban energy that's totally different from everywhere else. Plus, the Hassan II Mosque is absolutely mind-blowing—the minaret is the tallest in the world.

The dining and nightlife here are excellent, and it's where you go if you want to see modern Morocco in action.

Shopping the Souks: The Art of the Deal

Every city's got different specialties. In Fez, hit up the spice and perfume souks—your house will smell amazing for months. Marrakech is great for those pointed slippers (babouches), and the leather goods in Fez are top-notch.

Here's the thing about haggling: it's expected, so don't feel bad about it. Start at like a third of their asking price and work your way up. Make it fun—joke around, drink some tea, make friends. Some of my best travel memories are from these negotiations.

Real Talk: Practical Stuff You Need to Know

Where to Stay: Riads are gorgeous and authentic, but they can be noisy because of the open courtyards. If you're a light sleeper, maybe go with a hotel. Just remember that taxis can't drive into the medinas, so you'll be walking with your luggage.
Getting Around: The new trains are great, especially first class (worth the upgrade). Buses are fine—CTM is the most reliable. For taxis, grand taxis go between cities (you'll probably share), and petit taxis work within cities.
Navigation: Google Maps is your friend, but use satellite view in the medinas because the regular map view is often wrong. And try not to stare at your phone too much—that's like wearing a "tourist" sign.
What to Wear: Ladies, cover your legs and shoulders (except at beach towns). Everyone needs good walking shoes because those medina streets are no joke—ancient cobblestones and modern heels don't mix.
Language: Ladies, cover your legs and shoulders (except Most people speak French, and you'll find English in tourist areas. Learn "Salaam Alykum" (hello), "Shukran" (thank you), and "Azul" if you want to impress Tamazight speakers.
Safety: Morocco's really safe. Just be aware that some people will try to overcharge tourists—it's annoying but not dangerous.

Your Morocco Adventure Starts Now

Look, I could keep going for hours about this place (ask my friends—I do), but the bottom line is that Morocco offers something for everyone. Love history? The imperial cities will blow your mind. Need adventure? The Sahara and Atlas Mountains are calling. Want to chill? The coast is perfect.

Every destination here has layers—the more time you spend, the more you discover. And honestly? Consider getting a local guide or tour operator for at least part of your trip. They know the hidden gems and can get you experiences that aren't in any guidebook.

So what's calling to you? The chaos of Marrakech? The blue streets of Chefchaouen? A camel trek into the Sahara? Whatever it is, Morocco's ready for you, and trust me, you're going to fall in love with this place just like I did.