10 Best Places to Visit in Morocco for First-Timers
If it's your first time visiting Morocco, get ready to be amazed by its endless charm, from historic landmarks and vibrant markets to stunning beaches, vast desert, and scenic mountains.
A trip to Morocco is a great chance to immerse yourself in its rich culture as well as explore the natural scenery, and if relaxation is your goal, coastal towns offer a laid-back escape. In this guide, we'll take you through 10 of Morocco's best places to visit for first-timers, just follow along and get inspired!
Casablanca
For first-time travelers visiting Morocco, Casablanca is more than just an entry point. As Morocco's largest city, it's a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity.
The city's highlight is The Hassan II Mosque, the fifth-largest mosque in the world and set against the Atlantic Ocean, open to non-Muslim visitors for guided tours. Walk along the waterfront promenade, or explore the city's stylish cafés and Art Deco buildings, make it a great start of your Moroccan journey.
The Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca
Marrakech
Marrakech is the perfect introduction to Morocco's rich culture and history, a must-visit for every first-time traveler. Known as the "Red City" in Morocco, it's a sensory experience filled with vibrant souks, famous palaces, and lively streets. At the heart of the city is the bustling square of Jemaa el-Fnaa, people gather here to tell stories, play music, and selling local foods.
You can explore the maze-like medina, don't be afraid to get lost in the crowd; the flow of people will lead you to deeper exploration. At the shops along the road, pick up some Moroccan crafts, blankets, leather, ceramics, hookah, and spices. Restaurants compete to put on barbeque performances as dusk falls. The city evokes its historic past with its red sandstone walls.
Djemaa El-Fna, Marrakech
Fez
Fez is a former imperial capital with a long history and rich culture, it will be a journey back in time when you visit here for the first time. It is now regarded as the hub of Moroccan handicrafts, and also famous for its well-preserved medieval medinas. Visit the DarBatha Museum, which has an excellent collection of ceramic tiles, wood carvings, bronze, and plaster sculptures, and experience the hustle and bustle of Moroccan markets in Fez's historic old town, Medina. You can also get close to the craftsmen who create and sell their goods.
Fez Medina
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is well known for its blue painted streets. Explore Medina's well-known, elegant alleyways and take in the Moroccan and Andalusian styles of architecture. The location is well-liked by many photographers and painters because of its dreamlike setting. Unlike other bustling cities, Chefchaouen offers a slower pace and tranquility, perfect for wandering through alleyways, browsing colorful handicraft shops, and enjoying a mint tea in a rooftop café. The nearby mountain trails are excellent for hiking, allowing visitors to explore the Rif Mountains, take in the breathtaking scenery and waterfalls, and discover another side of Morocco.
Blue Alleyways in Chefchaouen
Essaouira
With the famous name of "Wind City", this coastal town is a hotspot for surfing lovers. If you are looking for a laid-back atmosphere, go Essaouira. While simply unwinding on the beach is a great option, you will discover plenty of exciting experiences beyond its relaxed charm.
Step into the UNESCO-listed medina, where white-and-blue buildings house artisan shops, seafood restaurants, and lively markets. The fresh seafood is a must-try here, with local markets serving up the day's catch. Another famous spot will be the "Game of Thrones" set - Sqala du Port, a historic sea wall with stunning coastal views.
Merzouga
The settlement is situated on the edge of the Erg Chebbi Dune Sea, which is a route to explore the Sahara Desert and contains enormous sand dunes. You have the option of touring the desert on a quad bike or a camel, seeing the typical desert fauna along the way, setting up camp, and taking in breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
Ait Ben Haddou
When it comes to films shot in Morocco, Ait Ben Haddou is the one to mention. This UNESCO-listed ksar is a fortified village, made of sun-dried mud bricks, has been featured in many films like "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones". Nestled along the Ounila River at the edge of the Sahara Desert, it offers a glimpse into Morocco's desert architecture and Berber heritage. You can wander through its alleys, climb to the granary for panoramic views, and explore its ancient kasbahs.
Atlas Mountains
It is a hiker's paradise and offers stunning vistas because it is the highest mountain range in North Africa. Its highest point receives snow every year from September to May, enabling year-round outdoor recreation opportunities such as summer hiking and winter snow sports. Many lovely valleys, sheer cliffs, and breathtaking waterfalls are produced by rivers that have their beginnings in the highlands.
Todra Gorge
If you would like to see more natural landscape during your first trip in Morocco, Todra Gorge is a must-visit wonder. It can be a perfect stop between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech on a road trip.
Towering red rock cliffs rise up to 500 feet, creating a dramatic canyon that feels like a hidden oasis in the High Atlas Mountains. The gorge is good place for light hikes, rock climbing, or simply soaking in the wonderful scenery. A crystal-clear river runs through the valley, where you can cool off in the warmer months.
Dades Valley
Dades Valley is an introduction to Morocco's breathtaking rugged beauty, same like Todra Gorge, it's conveniently located between Sahara Desert and Marrakech, making it a worth-to-stop place on a classic Morocco itinerary.
Drive through its dramatic red rock formations and winding roads of "a thousand kasbahs", where soaring cliffs, hidden oases, and traditional Berber villages create a striking landscape.
Contact Odynovo to Customize Your First Trip
If you are planning to take a Morocco trip but don't know how to start, please don't hesitate to contact us via [email protected], just simply tell us your interests and needs, and one of our travel experts will create a tailor-made itinerary for you within 24hrs.
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