4 Ideas for a Culture-Filled Morocco Itinerary

From the busy markets and ancient medinas of imperial cities to the serenity of the Sahara Desert and the majestic peaks of the Atlas Mountains, Morocco offers a tapestry of experiences. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking for something new, these Morocco itinerary suggestions — broken up by how much time you have — will guide you through the highlights and hidden gems of a captivating destination.

This is just a sampling of a few of the country’s highlights. For a tailored itinerary that takes your interests, preferences and budget into account, connect with me to start planning.

First, how many days do you need in Morocco?

It ultimately depends on which destinations appeal to you. Marrakech alone deserves at least three or four nights. Also consider adding on an additional two nights in locations like the Atlas Mountains and Essaouira. You could easily spend weeks in Morocco and still have plenty of new things to see and do on your next visit.

Most travelers don’t have unlimited time constraints, though. Plus, you’ll likely spend at least two days of your trip flying in and out of Morocco. With that in mind, you'll probably want at least five to seven days to get the most out of your trip. This will give you enough time between travel dates to explore various spots without feeling the pressure of having to pack up as soon as you’re over the jet lag. 

Crafting the ideal Morocco itinerary: 4 potential ideas

Spending 3–5 days in Morocco: Casablanca to Marrakech

Casablanca and Marrakech offer an intriguing blend of modernity and tradition.

Most American flights to Morocco land in Casablanca, so it usually makes sense to start your trip here. On day one, you can explore iconic landmarks like the Hassan II Mosque near the city’s old medina before checking out the shops and restaurants in the vibrant Art Deco district. At night, rest up in a ritzy property like Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca to recover from the jet lag. If you don’t want to spend your time in Casablanca (many travelers use it as a stopover city), you can just head straight to Marrakech. 

In Marrakech, stay in or near the ancient medina, a bustling destination with labyrinthine souks, historic palaces and the chaotic but amazing atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Depending on whether you have the extra days, you can also enjoy a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. If you have more time, consider adding on a few days for the Agafay Desert (part of the larger Sahara). 

Alternatively: Check out Fes & Marrakech

If you’re more interested in Morocco’s spiritual side and history, you can trade Casablanca for Fes and compare the medinas of the two imperial cities. Whereas Marrakech is somewhat more modern, Fes offers a deeper glimpse into Morocco’s past. The two cities are similar in many ways, but Fes has an authenticity to it that will appeal to culture enthusiasts.

Fair warning: Marrakech and Fes are further apart. By car, it takes nearly six hours to traverse the distance. Or you can fly, which cuts that time dramatically. I'll help you decide what’s right for you. 

Spending 7–10 days in Morocco: Marrakech, the Sahara & the coast

With seven to 10 days, you can pack more destinations into your Morocco itinerary. Consider spending a couple of days on Morocco’s coast. Essaouira is less than three hours from Marrakech, and the change of pace and scenery is striking. A perpetual ocean breeze seems to have a calming effect on the city, and its medina is more bohemian and laid-back compared to the medinas of the imperial cities. The beaches here are also teeming with opportunities to surf, kiteboard or simply enjoy the sun before you end your trip.

Spending 2+ weeks in Morocco: a grand tour

Two weeks in Morocco will give you plenty of time to experience much of the country’s highlights. The imperial cities, the coasts, the mountains and deserts…There’s no reason you can’t maximize your time to see many of Morocco’s best places to visit.

Start in Rabat for a day (which is a great opportunity to recover from jet lag) before traveling to the blue-hued Chefchaouen for a night. Next, head to Fes for a cultural shift. After another three days there, you can travel to the desert for a night.

By day seven or eight, visit Skoura to take in all the city has to offer for two nights before traveling to Marrakech for at least three. This should leave you with one or two days to spend in the Atlas or on Morocco’s Atlantic coast in Essaouira before you head back to Casablanca to travel home.