Best 15 Cities in Morocco to Visit
With its amazing cultural diversity, rich history, and stunning nature, Morocco's cities are some of the most wonderful tourist destinations in North Africa. Known for its enchanting cities that combine breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable unique experiences, Morocco offers a diverse and unparalleled travel experience. From bustling markets and charming old towns to golden sandy beaches and towering mountains, Moroccan cities provide a variety of attractions like no other. Let's explore a selection of these wonderful cities and discover the charm each one offers to visitors.
Marrakech
When Morocco is mentioned, one of the first cities that comes to mind is undoubtedly Marrakech. Located in the heart of Morocco, Marrakech is one of the country's most famous cities, offering a unique atmosphere that blends history and modernity. Although Marrakech is renowned for its markets, palaces, and gardens, each telling its own story, it stands out as a rich cultural hub. Consequently, it attracts millions of tourists each year.
Marrakech has many tourist attractions worth visiting. Check out the must-visit places in Marrakech we've curated for you.
Fes
Fes, known as the cultural capital of Morocco, particularly draws attention with its historical wealth. The city takes visitors back in time with its significant landmarks like the UNESCO World Heritage site, Fes el Bali, narrow streets, and traditional architecture. Fes offers a unique experience for history enthusiasts and lovers of culture and arts. This city, which deserves to be at the top of the list of tourist places in Morocco, is frequently visited throughout the year, especially by foreign tourists. Besides Fes el Bali, the city boasts other marvelous sites like the University of Al Quaraouiyine (Mosque and University), the Nejjarine Museum, the Al-Attarine Madrasa, and the Bab Bou Jeloud gate.
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen, a mountainous city located in the northwest of Morocco at the foot of the Rif Mountains, is famous for its blue-painted houses, narrow streets, and natural beauty. This city stands out among the places to visit in Morocco due to its unique ambiance. You will find many spots to take stunning photographs in Chefchaouen, also known as "The Blue City." Among these places, you must see the Medina, the historical center of the city, the Chefchaouen Kasbah located in the city's central square, and the Ras Elma Waterfall about 4 km northeast of Chefchaouen.
Casablanca
Located on the Atlantic coast, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and also the commercial hub of the country. Besides all these features, the city draws attention with its modern buildings and historical treasures. Casablanca, with a more modern and business-oriented atmosphere compared to other historical cities in the country, blends its traditional culture with modern buildings.
Meknes
Known as the city of saints, Meknes is one of the four royal cities of Morocco. Established by Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, Meknes is historically and culturally significant. It boasts a rich historical heritage and magnificent gates and palaces. Meknes is a paradise for tourists who want to witness Morocco's historical heritage.
There are many sites to see in Meknes, such as the Bab Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the El Hedim square, and the historical city of Meknes, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, the Dar Jamai Museum, where traditional Moroccan art from Moulay Ismail's era is displayed, is one of the important places in Meknes.
Essaouira
Essaouira, also known as Mogador, is a coastal city located on the Atlantic coast and one of the must-see places in Morocco. Known for its historical walls, narrow streets, and local fish market, Essaouira is also famous for windsurfing due to its excellent wind conditions.
Essaouira is widely preferred by tourists for holidays and windsurfing tourism. Moreover, it offers various experiences to visitors with its white buildings, old city's structure, historical wealth, and bohemian atmosphere. Essaouira, which keeps Moroccan traditions alive in a modern way, also attracts attention with its art museums, music festivals, and cuisine famous for its seafood.
Tangier
Located in the northwest of Morocco, on the shores of the Strait of Gibraltar, just 14 kilometers south of Spain, Tangier is an important coastal city. With a rich history, the city has significant strategic importance. Tangier, influenced by many civilizations such as Arab, Andalusian, Berber, Ottoman, and European, boasts a rich and colorful culture.
This cultural richness is evident in the city's architectural structure. The Kasbah, located in the old town area, successfully reflects this cultural richness with its narrow streets, historical buildings, and traditional architecture. Tangier also has important tourist attractions such as the Mendoubia Gardens, Cap Spartel, and the Hercules Caves. Therefore, Tangier should definitely be added to the list of places to visit in Morocco.
Ouarzazate
Located in the south of Morocco, on the southern slopes of the Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate, also known as "The Door of the Desert," is a city in the Sahara Desert. It is a popular destination in Morocco, known as the Hollywood of Africa due to the numerous famous films and TV series shot there. It's particularly suitable for desert scenes.
Ouarzazate is famous for its historical areas, especially Ait Benhaddou. In addition, it's a place worth seeing for its historical and cultural heritage and natural treasures.
Ait Benhaddou
Located in southeast Morocco, between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech, Ait Benhaddou is an important destination as a historic ksar (traditional Moroccan fortress). Ait Benhaddou reflects the best examples of Moroccan earthen architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The city appears as a large cluster of sandstone buildings that showcase traditional Moroccan architecture in a ksar. Every building here was built with reddish-brown soil. Because of this, Ait Benhaddou, which has attracted global attention, especially from the film industry, has hosted many film sets. These include world-renowned productions such as "Gladiator," "Game of Thrones," and "Lawrence of Arabia."
Agadir
Located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains on the Atlantic coast, Agadir is one of Morocco's famous holiday resorts. Known for its sunny climate, wide golden sandy beaches, and luxurious holiday opportunities, Agadir is preferred by both local and foreign tourists. Around the city's marina, there are luxury hotels, restaurants, and modern shops. Therefore, all kinds of summer holiday opportunities are available in Agadir. Agadir is worth visiting for its beaches, luxurious and modern facilities, as well as its nature and historical wealth. The city has places to visit such as the historical Kasbah ruins, the Kasbah Museum, Souk El Had, Agadir Forest, and the Agadir Zoo.
Rabat
Rabat, the capital of Morocco, is located in the northwest of the country, on the Atlantic coast. Known for its ancient history, Rabat was used as a military base during the Andalusian campaigns in the 12th century. In Rabat, you can see tradition and modernity together. Traditional architecture is accompanied by modern city amenities. However, there are many places to visit in the city. The important and popular places worth seeing include the Mausoleum of Mohammed V - Hassan Tower, the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Royal Palace, and the Andalusian Gardens.
Sidi Ifni
Sidi Ifni, a charming fishing town in Morocco, stands out as a place that attracts sea lovers. Sidi Ifni, which was under Spanish control, offers a long sea holiday season thanks to its warm climate. Known for its beaches, you can consider Sidi Ifni as a place to swim in Morocco.
Erg Chebbi
Located in southeast Morocco on the edge of the Sahara Desert, Erg Chebbi is famous for its golden sand dunes that change colors. Globally known for its natural beauty, Erg Chebbi attracts many tourists annually. Erg Chebbi offers activities such as camel treks, walking, camping, and watching the sunrise and sunset. Nearby, there are Berber communities offering unique cultural experiences, as well as tourist sites like Merzouga, Todra Gorge, Rissani town, and Dades Valley.
Some Moroccans come to Erg Chebbi during the hottest times of the year to immerse themselves in the hot sand up to their necks for a few minutes. It is believed to be ideal for treating rheumatism.
Tinghir
Located on the slopes of the Atlas Mountains in the middle of the Dades Valley, Tinghir is known for its natural beauty and traditional Berber culture. The city includes the Dades and Todgha Gorges, ancient Berber settlements, kasbahs, and traditional houses. It is adorned with olive trees, fig trees, and various fruit trees, adding natural beauty to the city. Tinghir offers traditional guesthouses (riads) and inns for tourists. Tourist activities in Tinghir include trekking, mountain climbing, exploring the valley, and cultural tours, with particular popularity for climbing Todgha Gorge.
Asilah
Located in northwest Morocco on the Atlantic coast, Asilah is known for its white houses, ancient fortress walls, and artistic events. The city was under Portuguese and Spanish rule, and its historical fortress walls date back to that period. Besides historical structures like mosques, Asilah hosts the "Asilah Cultural Festival," bringing together artists, writers, and musicians. Asilah is characterized by its white houses and beautiful sandy beaches, making it a perfect destination to enjoy the sea and sun.
Morocco is a vibrant and wonderful country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, offering visitors a unique travel experience. If you want to experience these tourist spots yourself, WINGIE provides the cheapest flights to Morocco.
