Best Places to Visit in Morocco: My Favorite Stops After a Month on the Road
Morocco had been on my list for years — the kind of destination that seems to promise it all: mountains, desert, beaches, ancient cities, and incredible food. I finally made it happen with a month-long trip in January, starting and ending in Agadir, doing a full loop through the country.
From wandering the buzzing souks of Marrakesh, getting lost in the blue streets of Chefchaouen, riding camels in the Sahara, to watching the Atlantic waves roll in at Essaouira, this itinerary has a bit of everything. I traveled mostly by bus and shared taxis, with a few tours to help reach the more remote places.
This guide includes all the stops I made — what I saw, what I’d do differently, and the things that really stood out. If you’re planning a trip to Morocco and want variety without rushing, I hope this helps you craft your own unforgettable adventure.
Marrakesh — The Heartbeat of Morocco
There’s no easing into Morocco, and Marrakesh makes sure of that. The city is a sensory explosion — the scent of spices and orange blossoms, the echo of the call to prayer, the crush of people and mopeds in narrow alleys. It can feel overwhelming at first, but give it a little time and Marrakesh will absolutely enchant you.
What to Do in Marrakesh
Wander the Medina: Getting lost in Marrakesh’s historic old town is a rite of passage. The medina is a maze of alleys filled with souks (markets) selling everything from carpets and ceramics to spices and leather goods. Don’t expect to find your way easily — that’s part of the charm.
Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa: This legendary square transforms from a daytime hub of juice stalls and henna artists into a lively nighttime spectacle of street food, musicians, and storytellers. I loved grabbing a seat at one of the rooftop cafés at sunset to watch the chaos unfold below.
See the Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum: A serene escape from the noise of the medina, the bold blues and exotic plants at Majorelle Garden are as iconic as they are photogenic. The neighboring museum gives insight into the life and work of YSL, who helped restore the garden.
Explore Bahia Palace & El Badi Palace: Bahia is the more intact of the two, full of intricate zellige tilework and tranquil courtyards. El Badi is a ruin, but its sheer scale and sun-soaked orange walls are impressive.
Hammam Experience: After a few days on the road, trust me — a traditional Moroccan steam bath and scrub is worth every dirham.
Where to Eat
The food in Marrakesh is incredible — try a tagine at Café Clock, have rooftop dinner at Nomad or Terrasse des Épices, and grab cheap but delicious bites at the food stalls in Jemaa el-Fnaa.
Where to Stay
I stayed in a riad inside the medina — a traditional Moroccan guesthouse with an interior courtyard. It made all the difference. Look for one with a rooftop terrace; it’s the perfect place to take a breather from the city’s energy.
Ouarzazate & the Dades Valley — Gateway to the Desert
Leaving Marrakesh, the landscape quickly changes. I drove over the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass — the road is dramatic, sometimes dizzying, but absolutely worth it for the views. Eventually, I arrived in Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco.”
What to Do in Ouarzazate
Aït Benhaddou: Even if you haven’t heard the name, you’ve seen the photos. This UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village) built from clay and straw has appeared in countless films and shows (Game of Thrones, Gladiator, etc.). It’s about 30 km from Ouarzazate, and a must-stop for both the views and the sense of stepping back in time.
Atlas Film Studios: A bit kitschy but fun if you’re a movie buff. You can tour old sets from Hollywood blockbusters and see how Morocco has doubled for ancient Rome, Egypt, and beyond.
Taourirt Kasbah: Right in Ouarzazate, this restored kasbah gives a glimpse into life inside a desert fortress. The maze of rooms and courtyards is surprisingly atmospheric.
The Drive Through the Dades Valley
From Ouarzazate, I hit the road toward Dades — and it turned out to be one of the most beautiful drives of my trip.
Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs: This nickname is no exaggeration. Along the way, you’ll pass crumbling fortresses, lush palm groves, and tiny Berber villages clinging to the cliffs.
Skoura Oasis: A scenic stop if you have time, known for its date palms and kasbahs.
Dades Gorge: Twisting roads snake through the red rock canyon — especially the famous hairpin turns known as the “Tizi n’Zigzag.” I arrived by late afternoon and caught golden hour lighting up the cliffs — pure magic.
Where to Stay
I stayed in a guesthouse overlooking the Dades Gorge, and it was one of the most peaceful nights of my trip. Many offer dinner, which usually means homemade couscous or tagine with a view.
Tinghir & Todra Gorge — Canyon Walls and Palm-Filled Valleys
After Dades, the road winds east toward Tinghir, a small town that serves as the jumping-off point for exploring Todra Gorge. It’s one of the most photogenic spots in Morocco — and also one of the few places where you might spot climbers scaling canyon walls while goats wander below.
What to Do in Tinghir & Todra Gorge
Todra Gorge: The narrow canyon walls rise up to 300 meters on either side and feel almost unreal. I arrived in the morning before the crowds and walked along the riverbed — the cool air between the walls was a welcome break from the desert heat.
Short Hikes: You can take several easy trails along the base or even hike up above the gorge for panoramic views. If you’re feeling adventurous, locals offer guided treks into the surrounding mountains.
Palm Grove Walks: Back in Tinghir, take time to wander the lush palm groves just outside town. You’ll find locals tending gardens and traditional irrigation systems still in use. It’s peaceful and feels a world away from Morocco’s more touristy stops.
Visit the Jewish Quarter (Mellah): Tinghir has a fascinating history, including a once-thriving Jewish community. It’s worth exploring this quiet corner of town with its unique architecture and stories.
Where to Eat
I had a cozy tagine lunch at a small family-run restaurant near the gorge. If you’re staying nearby, most places offer traditional home-cooked meals — rich, flavorful, and generous in portion.
Where to Stay
Tinghir has a growing number of guesthouses and small hotels, many overlooking the palm groves or further out, near the gorge. I stayed near the gorge in a guesthouse with a beautiful patio — perfect for watching the sunset.
Merzouga & the Sahara Desert — Dunes, Camels & Starry Nights
Driving from Tinghir to Merzouga, the scenery becomes increasingly dry and otherworldly until — suddenly — the golden dunes of the Erg Chebbi rise up from the horizon like something out of a movie. This was one of the absolute highlights of my Morocco trip.
What to Do in Merzouga
Camel Trek & Desert Camp: I booked a camel trek at sunset to a desert camp deep in the dunes. Yes, it’s touristy — but still magical. The changing colors of the sand, the quiet of the desert, and the star-filled sky were unforgettable. Most camps offer dinner, local music, and surprisingly comfortable tents.
Climb the Dunes: Get up early and climb one of the taller dunes for sunrise — it’s harder than it looks but 100% worth it.
4×4 Tours: For a faster-paced alternative, you can book a 4×4 tour to visit surrounding desert villages, seasonal salt lakes (like Dayet Srji, where flamingos sometimes appear), and the nomadic Berber communities who still live in the area.
Gnawa Music in Khamlia: This small village near Merzouga is home to the Gnawa people, known for their hypnotic music. You can stop by a local music house for a short performance and cultural intro.
Where to Stay
You can either:
- Stay in Merzouga town and do a camel trek into the dunes for one night
- Or book two nights in the desert: one in a luxury desert camp, one in town or vice versa
I did one night in a mid-range desert camp and slept better than I expected. The warmth of the blankets, the quiet, and the night sky felt surreal.
Travel Tip : Desert temperatures can swing dramatically — bring layers! It was warm during the day but cold at night (especially in January).
Fes — A Journey into Morocco’s Past
Arriving in Fes feels like stepping back in time. The city’s ancient medina, Fes el-Bali, is a maze of narrow alleys, souks, and hidden courtyards — and it’s still very much alive, with artisans practicing centuries-old trades. It’s less polished than Marrakesh, but more authentic in many ways.
What to Do in Fes
Wander Fes el-Bali: This UNESCO-listed medina is the largest car-free urban area in the world. You’ll get lost — it’s inevitable — but that’s part of the charm. Local guides are available (and worth it) if you want context without constantly checking your phone.
Chouara Tannery: One of the oldest leather tanneries in the world. The smell is strong (grab a sprig of mint at the entrance), but the view from one of the surrounding leather shops is iconic. It’s fascinating to watch the traditional leather-making process.
Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque & University: Often cited as the oldest university in the world, non-Muslims can’t enter the prayer hall, but you can peek in from the outer doors. The green-tiled roofs are beautiful from nearby rooftops.
Medersa Bou Inania: One of the few religious sites non-Muslims can enter. The intricate zellige tilework and wood carvings are stunning.
Artisan Quarters: Watch metalworkers, weavers, and ceramic artists at work in the medina. These areas feel more real and less touristy than some of Marrakesh’s souks.
Where to Stay
I stayed in a traditional riad tucked inside the medina — complete with a courtyard fountain and rooftop views. Fes is full of these hidden gems, and they’re often very affordable.
Where to Eat
Fes is known for its refined cuisine — try b’stilla (pastilla), a sweet-savory pie made with chicken or pigeon and dusted with cinnamon and sugar. Also worth trying: harira soup, beef with prunes, and traditional Moroccan pastries.
Meknes, Volubilis & Moulay Idriss Zerhoun — History, Ruins & Sacred Hills
This trio makes for a fascinating detour between Fes and Chefchaouen. I explored them as a day trip — and it was a great contrast to the hustle of Fes.
Meknes — Morocco’s Sleepy Imperial City
Once the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismaïl, Meknes is smaller and quieter than Marrakesh or Fes, but it still holds plenty of charm.
Bab Mansour Gate: One of the most beautiful city gates in Morocco, right on the main square.
Heri es-Souani: The massive granaries and stables built to feed and house the Sultan’s 12,000 horses. Atmospheric and well-preserved.
Mausoleum of Moulay Ismaïl: One of the few religious sites open to non-Muslims, with beautiful tilework and a peaceful vibe.
Wander the Medina: Smaller and easier to navigate than others — perfect for a half-day stroll.
Volubilis — Roman Ruins in the Olive Groves
A short drive from Meknes lies Volubilis, the most impressive Roman archaeological site in Morocco. I visited in the morning and had large parts of it nearly to ourselves.
Don’t miss: The Capitol, Basilica, Arch of Caracalla, and stunning mosaic floors still intact in many villas.
Tip: Bring water, wear a hat — there’s little shade.
Moulay Idriss Zerhoun — A Sacred Hilltop Town
Just a few kilometers from Volubilis, Moulay Idriss is considered Morocco’s holiest town. Non-Muslims couldn’t even stay overnight until 2005!
What to do:
- Wander the town’s steep, winding lanes — the views are gorgeous.
- Pass by the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss I, founder of Morocco’s first Islamic dynasty (non-Muslims can’t enter, but the town itself is worth visiting).
- Grab a mint tea with a view at a rooftop café.
Chefchaouen — Morocco’s Blue Jewel in the Mountains
Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is known for its serene atmosphere, cool mountain air, and striking blue-washed streets. After the busy medinas of Fes and Meknes, it felt like a peaceful retreat.
I spent three nights here, which gave me enough time to explore the town without rushing and to slow down and enjoy the vibe.
What to Do in Chefchaouen
Wander the Medina: The magic here isn’t in monuments, it’s in the meandering blue lanes, colorful doorways, and flower-filled alleys. Get up early to explore before the crowds — it’s when the town feels most magical.
Hike to the Spanish Mosque: A short walk from town, this hilltop mosque offers panoramic views over the medina and surrounding hills — especially beautiful at sunset.
Visit Ras El Maa Waterfall: A tiny but charming waterfall on the edge of town where locals gather to wash clothes, dip their feet, or relax.
Shopping: Chefchaouen is a great place to buy handwoven blankets, wool goods, and natural beauty products like argan oil or rose water.
Relax: This is one of the few places in Morocco where doing nothing feels just right. Sit at a rooftop café with a mint tea and watch the world go by.
Where to Stay
I stayed at a guesthouse with a rooftop terrace — highly recommended. The mountain views at dawn and dusk were some of the best of my trip.
Where to Eat
Chefchaouen has lots of cozy eateries serving tagines, couscous, and grilled meats, plus more Western options than other towns. Try the local goat cheese, and don’t miss Beldi Bab Ssour for traditional fare in a charming setting.
Tangier — A Coastal City with a Storied Past
Tangier has long been a magnet for artists, writers, and eccentrics — from the Beat Generation to spies and smugglers. It feels different from the rest of Morocco: breezy, coastal, and infused with a European vibe.
I stayed two nights and used my time to explore the mix of history, sea views, and bohemian energy.
What to Do in Tangier
Explore the Medina: More relaxed than in Fes or Marrakesh, with winding streets, whitewashed buildings, and plenty of tucked-away cafés and shops.
Visit the Kasbah Museum: Set in a former palace, this museum offers beautiful views over the port and a great intro to the city’s layered history.
Walk along the Corniche: Stretch your legs with a seaside stroll. Tangier’s bay is long and curved, perfect for a golden-hour walk.
Café Culture: Visit Café Hafa, a legendary clifftop spot with mint tea, sea views, and past patrons like The Rolling Stones and Paul Bowles.
American Legation Museum: A surprising cultural gem — it’s the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located abroad and tells the story of U.S.–Morocco relations.
Cap Spartel & Hercules Caves (optional half-day trip): If you have extra time, head outside the city to see the cliffs where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, and a cave shaped like the African continent.
Where to Eat
Tangier has a growing food scene. Try:
- Le Saveur du Poisson – no menu, just fresh, rustic seafood served in an atmospheric setting.
- El Morocco Club – upscale, with a menu mixing Moroccan and Mediterranean flavors.
- Traditional pastries from any neighborhood bakery — especially kaab el ghzal and chebakia.
Where to Stay
I picked a riad inside the medina, which gave me a great mix of quiet, character, and location. Many places have rooftops where you can see the sea.
Essaouira — Windy Skies, Coastal Vibes, and Artistic Energy
After the bustle of the inland cities, Essaouira felt like a breath of fresh (very fresh!) air. Known as the “Wind City of Africa,” it’s popular with surfers, artists, and travelers looking to unwind by the sea.
I spent a few days here just soaking it all in — exploring the medina, walking the ramparts, and feasting on seafood.
What to Do in Essaouira
Wander the Medina: Essaouira’s medina is smaller and more navigable than Marrakesh or Fes — a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with whitewashed walls, blue shutters, art galleries, and craft shops.
Stroll the Skala de la Kasbah (Old Portuguese Ramparts): These sea-facing walls, cannons and all, offer great views of the ocean and crashing waves.
Visit the Port: Colorful fishing boats, fresh catches being hauled in, and seagulls everywhere — it’s one of the most photogenic spots in town.
Shop for Local Crafts: Essaouira is known for thuya wood products, Argan oil, and woven textiles.
Surf or Kiteboard: The consistent winds make Essaouira a hub for water sports. You’ll find plenty of schools offering lessons.
Sunset on the Beach: Grab a spot on the sand or a terrace and enjoy the golden hour as the wind calms and the light softens.
Where to Eat
- La Casa – for traditional dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
- La Table by Madada – stylish Moroccan-European fusion with candlelit ambiance.
- Street-side seafood grills near the port — simple, fresh, and delicious.
Where to Stay
Essaouira is full of charming riads and boutique hotels. I stayed inside the medina, which made everything walkable, and my riad had a sunny terrace for breakfast.
From here, I wrapped up the loop by heading back to Agadir, but if you’re following this route, it’s also possible to swing by Paradise Valley or spend a night in Taghazout for a surfy vibe.
Agadir — A Relaxing End to the Journey
Agadir isn’t everyone’s favorite stop in Morocco, but after weeks of medinas, deserts, and mountain roads, it was a welcome change of pace. This modern city, rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1960, has a completely different feel — wide boulevards, a long beach promenade, and big resort hotels.
I stayed here for a couple of nights to decompress, get some sun, and enjoy a bit of comfort before heading home.
What to Do in Agadir
Relax on the Beach: Agadir has one of the best beaches in Morocco — wide, sandy, and great for swimming or just stretching out on a lounge chair with a book.
Stroll the Promenade: The beachfront walk is full of cafés, restaurants, and shops, perfect for a lazy sunset stroll.
Visit the Kasbah (Agadir Oufella): All that remains is a hilltop wall, but the view over the city and ocean is worth the trip — especially at sunset.
Souk El Had: A huge local market where you can pick up spices, argan oil, pottery, clothes, and snacks — much less touristy than other Moroccan markets.
Book a Hammam or Massage: There are plenty of wellness spots where you can enjoy a traditional scrub or a more spa-like experience.
Try Surfing in Taghazout (optional half-day trip): Just 30 minutes north of Agadir, Taghazout is a surfer’s paradise with chill cafés and a laid-back beach scene.
Where to Eat
Agadir has a wide range of international and Moroccan restaurants. A few highlights:
- Pure Passion – a bit upscale, known for seafood and ocean views.
- La Pastilla – for a more traditional Moroccan meal in a low-key setting.
Where to Stay
I stayed near the beachfront, which was ideal for relaxing and catching sunsets. Agadir has everything from all-inclusive resorts to simple guesthouses — great if you’re looking for a soft landing after a busy trip.
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Related posts:
17 Best Things to Do in Marrakesh: What I Loved (and What to Skip) 
3 Days in Marrakesh: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 
Visiting Ait Ben Haddou: Your Ultimate Travel Guide 
Essaouira, Morocco: The Laid-Back Coastal Town You’ll Want to Linger In 
How to Plan a Desert Adventure in Merzouga, Morocco 
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Meknes on Your Morocco Trip 
The Best Things to Do in Tangier, Morocco 
What to Eat in Morocco: Must-Try Dishes, Street Food & Sweets 
What to Pack for Morocco: A Practical Travel Checklist