Morocco itinerary – Best way to spend 10, 7 or 5 days in Morocco

Welcome to Morocco, a vibrant land that extends all the way from the shores of the Atlantic to the incredible sand dunes of the Sahara Desert. It is a vibrant, ancient, North African country that you will fall in love with during your Morocco itinerary.  

There is so much to see and do that every day will be jam-packed with fun as you set out to explore all of the best places to go in Morocco. However, visiting Morocco can be daunting if you’ve never been to this part of the world and are unfamiliar with local customs. 

Therefore, this travel itinerary for Morocco has been created by me since I am a local who has been living in Morocco since January of 2023. My goal is to give you expert, local tips so that you can experience all the beauty, magic, history, and culture of a place where Middle Eastern and Western cultures meet. 

So, come with me, and let’s discover some of the best places to see in Morocco that many tourists might not know about. Below I’m sharing crafted itineraries and recommendations on the best things to do in Morocco in 10, 7 or 5 days.

Kelly Chefcheouan
In a hurry?
Book your Morocco essentials!

These are the unmissable things to do in Morocco that you should book in advance!

3-day desert tour
Marrakech guided tour
2-hour private hammam
Fez guided tour of the Medina 
Chefchaouen guided tour 
Guided tour of Tangier 

How many days in Morocco?

Morocco is an amazing destination that is home to vast deserts, amazing beaches, incredible mountains, and vibrant cities. So, you could easily spend a month or two exploring all of the best places to visit in Morocco. 

However, if you are short on time, and who isn’t these days, plan to spend between 7 and 14 days traveling throughout this country. It will give you enough time to experience all of the best places in Morocco. 

Ben Youssef Mosque Marrakesh morocco

Morocco itinerary overview – the best of Morocco, Country

I’ve condensed all of the best things to do in Morocco and the most amazing places to see into this 10-day Morocco itinerary. I’ve also prepared shorter versions of the itinerary so you can see and experience Morocco even if you only have 7 or just 5 days in the country.

This itinerary for Morocco will take you on a whirlwind trip through some of the country’s most exciting destinations. You’ll visit incredible beaches, explore ancient Medinas, walk on the sand dunes of the Sahara, and discover Morocco’s famous blue city. 

Since Marrakech has one of the biggest international airports in the country, with many budget airlines operating direct flights here from Europe, this is where you’ll start your Morocco 10-day itinerary. 

The trip will end in Tangier since this port city in the north has an international airport and is a short ferry ride away from Tarifa, Spain. Therefore, this is a great endpoint if you are visiting as part of a larger Morocco Spain Portugal itinerary.

However, if you are flying into and out of Marrakech then just return to Fes after Chefchaouen and you can easily take a plane or train back to Marrakech instead of heading on to Tangier. You also do not need to rent a car and can travel through much of the country by bus and train. 

Who is this itinerary for?

This 10 day Morocco itinerary is perfect for you if you are short on time and want to visit as many different places as possible during your Morocco vacation. 

This guide will enable you to quickly and easily see an array of diverse landscapes that include deserts, beaches, ancient cities, mountains, and exciting cities. You’ll experience the main highlights of the country and come away knowing exactly what to see in Morocco when you visit. 

I’ll provide insider tips and relevant links when an activity or sight is first mentioned. However, to avoid repetition, I have consolidated the repeated activities for the shorter itineraries into a list. Refer back up to where they’re first mentioned for additional information when needed.

Marrakech market morocco

Morocco 10 day itinerary

Day 1 – Marrakech

You’ll spend the day exploring the Medina since it is an incredible UNESCO World Heritage where you can shop for traditional souvenirs and experience the vibrant culture of the red city. 

Your incredible journey will include visits to historic sites like Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs before heading to the Mellah for a real taste of local Jewish culture in Marrakech. 

You’ll then explore the souks of the Medina before seeing Koutubia Mosque and spending the night in Jemma el-Fna Square.

There was a major earthquake in the Atlas Mountains in September of 2023 that did cause damage to many older buildings in Marrakech. However, everything is now open and visitors can freely explore the city center without issue. 

Explore the Saadian Tombs

This site was only recently rediscovered in 1917 and is a mausoleum filled with ornate rooms adorned with Italian Carrara marble, muqarnas (decorative plasterwork), and gold. 

During your visit, must-see highlights are the Chamber of the 12 Pillars, with its stunning tilework and muqarnas, as well as the Garden Tombs, Lalla Massouda’s Tomb, and the Chamber of Three Niches and Prayer Room. 

Bahia Palace 

Bahia Palace is an incredible, 8,000-square-foot-palace that features exquisite tilework and stunning garden-filled courtyards with fountains. 

Only a fraction of the rooms are open to the public. But, you can admire gorgeous tilework, ancient Moroccan wood carving (zoak), and lovely plasterwork during your visit. 

Most of this impressive architecture is inside the Petit Riad and Grand Riad with their amazing ceilings. The Cour d’Honneur also impresses since the courtyard features a floor filed with Italian marble. 

You can learn more about the historical significance and architecture of this magical place during this epic guided tour.

Or, do a combined tour and visit Bahia Palace, Badi Palace and the Saddian Tombs with an incredible expert guide. 

The Mellah

The Mellah is Marrakech’s ancient Jewish Quarter. It is one of the best things to do in Marrakech if you want to get off the beaten path and experience the life of everyday Moroccans. 

Be sure to visit Miaara cemetery and the Al Azama synagogue which dates back to the 16th century. Afterward, explore the souks (markets) here and start practicing the fine art of haggling. 

Go Shopping in the Souks

As you make your way towards Koutubia Mosque, take some time to explore the Medina. Get lost in the labyrinth of streets and admire souks filled with lanterns, carpets, ceramics, spices, lamps, and more. 

Avoid unsolicited help from strangers since this is usually a scam. Also never accept the first price offered on an item since haggling is a big part of Moroccan culture. 

Specifically, visit Souk Semmarine since this is the main market as well as Souk Haddadine to see blacksmiths at work, Souk Cherratine for leather goods, and La Criée Berbère for carpets. 

Koutubia Mosque Marrakech

Visit Koutubia Mosque

Dating back to the 12th century, this is the biggest and most important mosque in the city. So, you can’t enjoy a trip to Morocco without visiting now, can you? 

Sadly, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter. However, you can admire the minaret and walk through surrounding paths lined with trees and fountains. 

You can even explore the ruins of an ancient prayer hall and enjoy the yellow hue of the mosque as evening descends upon the red city.   

Spend the Evening in Jemma el-Fna Square

This is the main square in Marrakech and it comes alive with musicians, bell dancers, snake charmers, and belly dancers once the sun sets. 

This is when temperatures cool and when street food vendors start selling amazing street food. 

Sample tagine, snail soup, or kebabs before heading to L’Adresse Cafe and Restaurant for a coffee and to enjoy impressive views of the vibrant square at night. 

Where to Stay in Marrakech (3 nights)

The best area to stay in Marrakech is the Medina. It is centrally located near all of the city’s main attractions, making it easy to explore the city in a short amount of time. 

Plan to spend two days in the city and one day doing an amazing day trip from Marrakech. This will give you time to enjoy all of the city’s highlights at a relaxed pace. 

You can book a room at The Central House since it’s a fantastic boutique hotel in the Medina. It features a plunge pool and an amazing rooftop terrace where you can relax in the sun. 

Alternatively, stay in a traditional Moroccan riad like Riad Palais Sebban. Rooms sit inside a former palace from the 18th century and surround a tile-filed courtyard. There’s even a pool on-site. 

Otherwise, stay at Villa Makassar. There is a pool and spa on-site, as well as polished rooms with all the conveniences of a 5-star hotel. 

Jardin Majorelle Marrakech

Day 2 – Marrakech

Get a bit outside the Medina with a visit to the stunning Jardin Majorelle and the fascinating Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Afterward, explore Dar El Bacha Museum and grab a coffee at Bacha Coffee before experiencing the architectural beauty of Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa and relaxing at a local hammam. 

Walk to Jardin Majorelle 

It will be a bit of a walk if you want to get to this garden from the Medina. But, it’s worth it to stand in awe of the vibrant blue house and see ancient artifacts on display at the Berber Museum. 

Just get tickets in advance since this is one of the only places in Marrakech where there will be a line out the door to get in.  Purchase a combined ticket for the garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum to save money. 

Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Learn about the famous fashion designer’s life and see many of his exquisite couture designs at this unique museum. You can even relax while watching a film about his life. 

It is located just down the street from Jardin Majorelle. That’s because the French designer loved Marrakech so much that he purchased the garden and eventually refurbished it. 

Dar Bacha Museum

As soon as you enter this museum, head to the back courtyard and give the host your name for a table at Bacha Coffee. Lines can exceed two hours and you will want to explore the museum while you wait for a table. 

This museum is a gorgeous example of traditional riad architecture and showcases the ancient designs used to create a hammam. The main salon even features a 12th-century map of the Mediterranean.

You’ll also see lovely plasterwork, and colorful zellige tiles while relaxing in the back courtyard. You can also explore temporary exhibits on display in the rooms surrounding this space. 

Bacha
Bacha Coffee morocco e1711791583779

Sip on Coffee at Bacha Coffee

This is probably one of the most luxurious coffee shops that you will ever see. So, take some time to relax and look through a menu filled with hundreds of different coffees. 

Order a golden pot of coffee that is served with fresh vanilla and whipped cream on the side. 

It makes a lovely addition to your coffee, as does a croissant. Two croissants come per order and the almond is heavenly. 

Explore Ben Youssef Madrasa (Ibn Youssef School)

This college from the 14th century was once home to 900+ students and is still the single largest madrasa in the country. 

Stop by to enjoy elaborate tilework spread throughout the school’s many courtyards, prayer halls, and dorm rooms.

Relax at the Hammam

After a busy day exploring one of the best places in Morocco, relax at a traditional public bath in Morocco. 

You’ll sit in steam rooms of varying temperatures and use black soap to wash and scrub all the dead skin off your body. Traditional hammams are public but if you want more privacy, enjoy this luxurious 2-hour private hammam experience. 

However, Hammam Mouassine is a great option if you want to experience an authentic public bath. They have excellent English-speaking guides to help you through the process. 

Essaouira morocco

Day 3 – Day Trip to Essaouira

Today, you’ll hit the beach and embark on a day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira. You’ll board a Supratours bus and spend 3 hours driving to this cute little beach town. 

Hang out by the main beach and visit the Scala du Port before heading into the quaint, blue and white Medina where you’ll see the Old Scala.

Walk Along the Main Beach

Main Beach is a 1.25-mile (2 km) stretch of sand that sits right outside the Medina and near the port of Essaouira. Take a walk along the sand and go for a swim if you want to brave the cold water.

Or, take advantage of Essaouira’s intense wind and try surfing or kite surfing. Moga Surf is a great place to learn the sport since Ismail Adarzane is a world-class kite surfer who teaches great classes. 

Scala du Port Essaouira

Visit the Scala do Port

This historic military tower from the 18th century is a great place to go to enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and the blue fishing boats the city is known for. You can visit on a Friday for free admission. 

Afterward,  shop for fresh seafood at the adjacent port and then bring it to one of the nearby outdoor restaurants so that they can cook you an amazing seafood feast. 

Wander the Medina

Get lost and wander through the quaint alleys that make up Essaouira’s medina. It’s a small place filled with stunning, blue and white buildings. 

Shop for souvenirs, grab a coffee, and enjoy the views from a local rooftop as you enjoy this ancient walled portion of the city. Or, do a fun half-day guided tour of the Medina. 

Explore the Old Scala

This is another military fortification from the 18th century that is situated inside the Medina. Climb up a large, stone ramp and enjoy mesmerizing views of the coast. 

You’ll also see 19 canons on your left that were featured in the famous television series, Game of Thrones. If you can, stay for sunset and watch as the sky lights up with a kaleidoscope of colors. 

Don’t stay too late and be sure to catch the last bus back to Marrakech since you’ll have to wake up and depart from Marrakech early tomorrow. 

Ait Benhaddou morocco

Day 4 – Marrakech to Dades Gorge

To travel from Marrakech to Fes over the next three days, book a 3-day desert tour. It’s a fun and cost-effective way to explore the best of Morocco in a limited amount of time. 

The experience is much cheaper than doing it on your own since meals, hotels, and transportation are all included in the price. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about getting lost since many roads signs are only in Arabic, something that can make a Morocco road trip difficult. 

After an early morning pick-up, drive through the Atlas Mountains and stop at Tizi n’Tichka. Continue to  Ait Benhaddou and Qouarzazate. See the exterior of the Atlas Studios and drive through the Valley of the Roses spending the night near Dades Gorge

Tizi n’Tichka 

You’ll enjoy a quick stop at the highest mountain pass in Morocco. Have your camera ready and take in stunning views of the High Atlas Mountains. 

Ait Benhaddou and Qouarzazate

This UNESCO World Heritage features an elaborate network of ancient paths lined with adobe homes. See where the movie Gladiator was filmed before climbing to the top of the Kasbah.

Enjoy the panoramic views before returning the way you came. Visit Ait Benhaddou as part of a day tour from Marrakech if you are planning a shorter, 5 day itinerary through Morocco. 

Atlas Studios

Stop briefly to take in views of the largest film studio in the world. Atlas Studios sits 3.1 miles (5 kilometers) outside of Qouarzazate and lies in the middle of the desert. 

Pass the Valley of the Roses

The Valley of the Roses is a special place where hundreds of tons of pink roses are grown throughout the Dades Valley. 

For the best experience, visit between April and Mmd-May when the roses bloom to life. You’ll then spend the night at a local hotel in the Dades Gorge area. 

Where to stay in Dades Gorge (1 night)

Spend the night in the Dades Gorge area so that you can get up early and make your way to the desert. 

La Perle du Dades is a casual but well-equipped hotel in the area. It has comfortable rooms and is surrounded by a lush garden. On-site amenities include an outdoor pool, a bowling alley, and a game room. 

Alternatively, Hotel Riad Bahammou offers big, Moroccan-style rooms with stellar views of the mountains. The traditional Moroccan breakfast is amazing and guests can relax on the rooftop and use a spacious pool. 

Dar Ahlam Dades Hotel is another great accommodation in the area with an outdoor pool and a fabulous breakfast. The staff are also extremely helpful and the rooms are very comfortable. 

sahara camel ride morocco

Day 5 – Dades Gorge to Merzouga

Start early with a drive and brief walk through Todra Gorge before heading to the Sahara Desert

Once in Merzouga, ride camels to your desert camp. Try sandboarding and watch the sunset before having dinner in the desert. 

Todra Gorge area in Morocco

Visit Todra Gorge

Early in the day, you’ll stop to admire the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge. Walk along the river inside the gorge and learn about its unique history before continuing to the Sahara Desert. 

Visit the Sahara Desert

After arriving in Merzouga, you’ll ride camels through the dunes of the Sahara Desert. Stop to try sandboarding and watch the sunset before heading to your desert camp. 

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan feast and listen to live Berber music being played around a roaring fire before spending the night inside a luxurious tent in the desert.  

Where to stay in Merzouga (1 night)

Stay inside a tent in the desert, Many camps offer luxury glamping experiences that make for comfortable stays and a one-of-a-kind experience when planning the best itinerary for Morocco. 

For a luxurious experience, stay at Riad Chebbi. This 5-star hotel has an in-ground pool and stunning rooms are well-located near the desert. The food is exceptional and the staff are accommodating. 

However, Hotel Kasbah Azalay Merzouga is a great alternative. You can look out at the dunes of the Sahara from your suite and enjoy a daily Continental breakfast. There is also an on-site pool to cool off in. 

Otherwise, enjoy luxury glamping inside a chic tent at Sahara Desert Luxury Camp. You can ride a camel through the desert to the hotel and sleep on a spacious king-sized bed for additional comfort. 

Ifrane monkey morocco

Day 6 – Merzouga to Fes

Wake up before sunrise to do an early morning camel ride back to your vehicle. 

Stop in Erfoud before continuing to the Middle Atlas Mountains. See some local monkies and stop in Ifrane before arriving in Fes late in the day. 

See Fossils in Erfoud

This oasis town in the desert is known for its amazing fossils. Visit a local rock quarry to see how they extract and polish fossils stuck in rocks. 

Head to Borg East viewpoint and take in impressive views of Tizimi palm grove before continuing one of the best Morocco road trips. 

See Barbery Macaque Monkeys in the Middle Atlas Mountains

Stop at one of the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains and take photos of the local Barbary macaque monkeys playing in the snow. 

These animals can be found in many places but Azrou is home to the biggest population. Otherwise, visit them in Ifrane National Park. 

See Ifrane and Explore the “Switzerland” of Morocco

Ifrane is known for stunning alpine-style architecture. It is a unique feature that makes this place look like it belongs in Switzerland. 

Visit the lion statue in Parc la Prairie and see the waterfalls at Ain Vittel Spring before driving to Fes and spending the night there. 

Where to stay in Fes (2 nights)

The best area to stay in Fes is the Medina. It’s well-located near all of the city’s best attractions and is the perfect home base for a quick visit as you’re traveling Morocco. 

If you’re on a budget and want to stay in an authentic Moroccan riad then stay at Dar Lalamoune. It’s well-located on the edge of the Medina and features spacious rooms with authentic Moroccan decor. Breakfast is included, changes daily, and is made to order. 

Alternatively, Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux is a fantastic five-star hotel with a spacious pool. It is a 10-minute walk from the Medina and has a great rooftop terrace. The included breakfast is also exceptional and on par with Michelin-starred cuisine. 

Hôtel Riad la clé de Fes is another excellent choice since the staff are very helpful and the food served on-site is delicious. Rooms are also small but well-outfitted with modern amenities. 

fez morocco

Day 7 – Fes

Spend the day exploring Fes and its beautiful Medina. You’ll enter the city through Bab Bou Jeloud and visit Madrasa Bou Inania before enjoying sweeping views of the Chouara Tanneries.

You’ll then explore Al Attarine Madrasa before catching a glimpse of the exterior of the Mosque and University Karaouiyne before checking out Fondouk el-Nejjarine

End the day with a visit to Jnan Sbil garden before hiking up to the Marinid Tombs to watch the sunset over Fes. You can end your itinerary today if you are doing a shorter, 7 days in Morocco itinerary. 

Main Gate in Fes Bab Bou Jeloud

Enter the Medina through Bab Bou Jeloud 

The only way to enter the Medina of Fes is in style at Bab Bou Jeloud. This stunning blue gate is made with this color since it represents the city of Fes. 

Walk through and turn around because the reverse side is green and designed to represent the Islamic religion. 

As you make your way down one of the main roads, stop to take photos at a small rainbow street. The Medina can be confusing so book a guided tour of the Medina for convenience. 

Explore Madrasa Bou Inania

This is the biggest school in the city for students of the Quran. It is a great place to enjoy amazing tilework, exquisite cedar screens, stunning doors, and intricate plasterwork. 

Try to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and have your camera ready so that you can take lots of pictures. 

Tannery Fez Morocco

Chouara Tanneries

Walk to the very bottom of the Medina and you will find the Chouara Tanneries. It is one of the oldest and largest tanneries in the country. They also use only traditional methods to create amazing leather goods. 

Pay someone to take you to the roof of a surrounding building so that you can enjoy aerial views of the tannery. They will also explain the tannery’s history and give you mint to help with the smell. 

Take Photos at Al Attarine Madrasa

This Madrasa features the most impressive and intricate tilework of all the buildings in Fes. The courtyard may be small but it is well-decorated with colorful tiles that are the perfect backdrop for photos. 

Go through a side door and head upstairs to see where the students lived. It stands in stark contrast to the grandeur of the main courtyard.  

Admire Mosque and University Karaouiyne

Sadly, you can only admire the extravagant exterior of this mosque and school since non-Muslims are not allowed to enter. 

However, walk around the exterior and admire the impressive doors that surround the complex. 

Fondouk el-Nejjarine

Before leaving the Medina, visit this incredible museum that is dedicated to woodworking. 

Learn about the building’s time as an inn for travelers and explore a wealth of historic artifacts displayed throughout the building’s three floors. 

Take photos of the elaborate inner courtyard which is lavishly adorned with some of the best woodworking in Morocco. 

Jnan Sbil Garden

On the way to this lovely garden outside the Medina, take in the impressive architecture of the Royal Palace. 

Take pictures of the building’s elaborate doors and then explore a local garden with a small pond. 

There are some well-manicured fountains and gardens to enjoy, as well as pens full of local birds. 

Watch the Sunset from the Marinid Tombs

Situated high on a hill overlooking the old city, these tombs were built as part of a necropolis for the Marinid dynasty. 

You can either walk or take a taxi here if you want to watch the sunset over the city while sitting around these ruins. 

Afterward, grab a mint tea at Hotel Le Meridien Merinides. The hotel has a great outdoor patio overlooking the city and is open to the public. 

Kelly in front of door Chefcheoun
Chefchaouen stairs morocco

Day 8 – Chefchaouen

Spend the morning taking a CTM bus to Chefchaouen. The trip should take around 4 hours. Try to leave Fes early so that you have time to explore the Medina and see the amazing blue houses the city is known for. 

Afterward, visit the Kasbah and then enjoy a short hike to the Spanish Mosque so that you can watch the sunset from the Spanish Mosque. You could book a day trip to Chefchaouen if you are short on time and want to see all of the best Moroccan cities to visit. 

Explore the Medina

Be sure to have your camera ready and wear something nice because the Medina is filled with blue homes, stunning doors, charming alleys, and exquisite squares. Book a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of this unique city. 

As you explore one of the best cities to visit in Morocco, know that locals will charge you to take photos at some of the most Instagrammable places in the Medina. 

Local Tip: The bus will not drop you off at the Medina. It is a 20-minute, uphill walk to the blue part of the city. So, you may want to take a taxi to the Medina from the bus station. 

Visit the Kasbah

Once a prison, the Kasbah is a clay structure that dates back to the 15th century, Explore the Andalusian garden inside before climbing the Portuguese Tower for lovely views of the city. 

You can also visit the Center for Research and Andalusian Studies and a tiny art gallery, but there will be no English signage relating to what you are looking at. 

Watch the Sunset at the Spanish Mosque

Exit the Medina and pass a small waterfall as you climb a well-paved path up to the Spanish Mosque. 

The structure was built by the Spanish in the 1920s but was never used. It sits on a hill overlooking the city and offers visitors sweeping views of Chefchaouen at sunset. Be sure to arrive early since seats fill up fast near the Mosque. 

Where to Stay in Chefchaouen (2 nights)

Book accommodations well-located inside the Medina so that you can make the most of your time in Chefchaouen. 

Dar Echchaouen Maison d’hôtes & Riad is an elegant, 4-star hotel that is a 10-minute walk from the Medina. Rooms are tastefully decorated and the hotel has a fantastic outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. A delicious breakfast is also included with your stay. 

Alternatively, Riad Mosaic is another excellent option with three amazing terraces where you can dig into a delicious breakfast and admire sweeping views of the mountains and city. Staff are friendly, rooms are comfortable, and the riad is centrally located. 

Casa La Hiba is also excellent since this apartment is in the Medina and features safe, clean, and cozy rooms with authentic Moroccan decor. 

Chefchaouen copy

Day 9 – Chefchaouen

Take a group taxi to Talassemtane National Park and do the hikes to God’s Bridge and Akchour Waterfall. You can use a shared taxi to get to the park, which is about 45 minutes away. You could also make things easy and book a guided day tour to Akchour Waterfall

If you are not a hiker, pack a bathing suit and go for a swim near one of the stunning waterfalls at the start of the trail There are many cafes here so you can also order a mint tea and relax by the water. 

Hike God’s Bridge

This is a short and steep hike that will take around 30 minutes to complete. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes since the path is narrow. 

But the views of the park are stunning and you’ll end the hike standing atop a natural land bridge that stretches across the valley. 

Akchour Waterfall

The hike to Akchour is easy/moderately difficult and will take 3 hours to complete round trip. The path can be confusing at times so be on the lookout for arrows. 

The most impressive waterfalls are at the start of the trail and the waterfall at the end can dry up. However, there is sometimes a man making homemade tagine at the end of the trail.

After the hike, take a break and enjoy a home-cooked meal as you look out at the waterfall. When you’re ready, go back the way you came and stop for a swim if you have time. 

Local Tip: Be sure to start your day early. Shared taxis do not leave until they fill up with 5 or 6 people. So, this can take some time. 

The trip to and from the national park will also take around 1.5 hours and the hikes will take around 4 hours. So, give yourself plenty of time to enjoy your day at the park before it gets dark. 

Cafe Hafa Tangier

Day 10 – Tangier

Spend the final day of this 10-day Morocco travel itinerary traveling to Tangier. The first bus out of the city does not leave until midday and the journey will take around 2.5 hours. 

If you want to leave CHefchaouen earlier, book a private transfer so that you can explore Tangier. 

Start at Grand Sacco and walk through Medina before visiting the American Legation Museum. Afterward, enjoy impressive views from the Phoenician Tombs and Cafe Hafa

You can also book a private guided tour of Tangier since this is the quickest and easiest way to see the city in a short amount of time. 

Visit Grand Sacco

This circular square has a central fountain that sits near the entrance to the Medina. Here you can see local landmarks like Cinéma Rif or take in views of the area from La Terrasse.

St. Andrews Church is also nearby and the cemetery is a lovely place to walk. The church is also unique since it has the Lord’s Prayer written inside in Arabic. Visiting hours are somewhat random so it can be difficult to get inside. 

Walk through the Medina

Take a quick walk through the Medina since you have been to several by now. Tangier’s Medina isn’t unique and you’ve seen several Medinas during this itinerary focusing on the best of Morocco. 

However, you can stop for a coffee at Café Tinjis and enjoy the atmosphere of Petit Socco. It’s another lovely square that sits just inside the Medina.

Visit the American Legation Museum

This five-story mansion features stunning Victorian-style rooms that are furnished to reflect what the building looked like in the 1800s when it was the home of American delegates in Morocco. 

Explore colorful rooms, see unique artifacts, admire beautiful paintings, and learn all about the historic relationship between the US and Morocco. Also, take time to admire the gorgeous interior courtyard. 

See the Phoenician Tombs

Walk down a stone pathway surrounded by ancient Roman statues and you’ll find 98 tombs carved into the rocks along a cliff in Tangier. 

Sit and enjoy incredible views of the Strait of Gibraltar. There is no shade in the area so visit in the late afternoon.

Grab a Mint Tea at Cafe Hafa

Cafe Hafa (or “The Edge” in English)  is an institution in Tangier. It is one of the best things to do in Morocco since the views of the ocean are stunning and the mint tea is amazing. 

You can even order a bowl of Moroccan Harira (chickpea soup) and see why people like Yves Saint Laurent used to hang out here. Enjoy the outdoor seating and arrive early since this place is popular and seats do fill up. 

souk fez morocco 1

Morocco 7 day itinerary

Day 1 – Marrakech

Spend the Day in Marrakech Exploring the Medina.

Day 2 – Marrakech to Dades Gorge

With stops in Ait Benhaddou and Qouarzazate before driving through the Valley of Roses.

Day 3 – Dades Gorge to Marzouga

Walk through Todra Gorge before riding camels to your Sahara Desert Camp in Marzouga.

Day 4 – Merzouga to Fes

Watch the Sunrise and leave Merzouga. Make your way to Fes and stop in Erfoud and Ifrane to see some local monkeys. 

Day 5 – Fes

Spend the day Exploring the Medina in Fes during your 1 week Morocco itinerary.

Day 6 – Chefchaouen

Get up Early and Spend the Day Exploring the Medina in Chefchaouen before watching the sunset at the Spanish Mosque

Day 7 – Talassemtane National Park

Spend the day hiking through Talassemtane National Park or Depart from Fes to fly back home. 

Merzouga morocco

Morocco 5 day itinerary

Day 1 – Marrakech

Spend the Day in Marrakech Exploring the Medina.

Day 2 – Essaouira

Take a Day Trip to Essaouira.

Day 3 – Marrakech to Dades Gorge

Leave Marrakech and make Your Way to Dades Gorge, with a stop at Ait Benhaddou and Qoarzazate before driving through the Valley of Roses.

Day 4 – Dades Gorge to Marzouga

Depart Dades Gorge and Enjoy a brief visit to Todra Gorge before arriving in the Sahara Desert and spending the night at a desert camp. 

Day 5 – Merzouga to Fes

Leave Merzouga and head to Fes. Stop in Erfoud and Ifrane along the way to make the most of your 5 day Morocco itinerary.

chefchaouen streets morocco

Getting to Morocco

By Air

When traveling to Morocco, most people fly into the country for their 10-day Morocco itinerary. 

The city’s two major airports are Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca and Marrakesh Menara Airport in Marrakech. 

Of the two airports, Casablanca receives more domestic and international flights daily. However, Marrakech has many direct flights arriving from Europe via budget airlines and this itinerary is built for those arriving to Marrakech.

So, when deciding between flying into Casablanca vs. Marrakech, it just depends on where your flight is originating from. 

By Ferry

Additionally, you can enter the country from Tarifa, Spain by ferry to Tangier. The ferry ride takes an hour and twenty minutes and you could do a day trip to Tangier via a ferry from Spain as part of a Spain, Morocco, Portugal itinerary. 

By Car/Bus

One of the only land borders In Morocco that is open is the one with Mauritania at Guerguerat, This crossing is about four hours south of Dakhla and is rarely used since most people do not travel this far south in Morocco. But if you’re a kitesurfer, this will be your mecca!

Alternatively, you can travel by car or bus across the border between Spain and Morocco from the Spanish cities of Ceuta and Melilla. Both cities are located on the African continent and can access Morocco by car.  

dades gorge morocco

Getting around Morocco

The best way to get around Morocco is to travel by train. Morocco has high-speed trains that connect Casablanca to Tangier, with stops in Rabat. However, traditional trains also connect these cities with Marrakech and Fes. 

Morocco also has a vast network of buses that are safe, comfortable, and easy to use. Two of the most popular companies are Supratours and CTM. In general, buses are slower than trains and should only be used when trains are not available. 

You could also plan a road trip through Morocco and drive yourself around the country. However, traveling with a car into cities can be difficult due to traffic and limited parking. 

Having a car is also not essential since many cities are very walkable. Additionally, Morocco has many buses and trains operating between most cities. So, having a car is not necessary when visiting Morocco.  

Marrakech rooster morocco

Best time to visit Morocco 

To see the best of Morocco visit between September and November when the weather is warm and the days are long. But, crowds are minimal and you can enjoy deep discounts on accommodations. 

Winter is also a good time to visit but nights can get cold. Heat is also not standard at many hotels and you will need to research this before booking a hotel.

Spring can be a good time to visit however Ramadan is a month-long holiday that starts in March and ends in April. It can be challenging to travel since the clocks go back an hour, businesses alter their opening hours, and many restaurants close for the day. That being said, it can be a nice, quiet time to visit if you have flexibility in your schedule. 

Conversely, summer is probably the worst time to visit since desert cities Fes, Chefchaouen, and Marrakech can see temperatures soar above 113°F (45°C). Cities are also filled with tourists and accommodations are expensive since this is peak travel season. 

Marrakech snakes morocco

Planning a trip to Morocco?

Travel Insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and I’ve learned that the hard way!

Now I always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is my go-to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

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Author Bio

Kelly is originally from New York City but moved to Morocco in January of 2023 after falling in love with the country. She has traveled throughout Morocco and currently lives in Essaouira. She shares her expert local advice on Travel Morocco Today so that you can explore Morocco like a local, not a tourist.

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One comment

  1. thanks for sharing it with us I’m next year visiting Morocco and I found this blog valuable and includes so much info that will help me. I will keep your website for new coming articles. Regards lora.

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