Marrakech
Marrakech is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Morocco. The red walls of the ancient Medina, the stunning architecture, and the bustling souks make it a popular destination for travelers. In addition, Marrakech is home to various attractions and activities, from ancient historical sites to modern shopping malls and trendy clubs.
Let’s take a look at some of the top attractions in the city:
Jemaa el Fna
Jemaa el Fna is the heart of Marrakech and the former center of public executions. This iconic square can be an overwhelming place, though it’s not as dangerous as it might appear at first glance. There isn’t much to do or buy in Jemaa el Fna, but its kinetic energy is contagious and an absolute must for any visitor.
During the day, Jemaa el Fna is bustling with musicians, snake charmers, storytellers, and fortune tellers. By night, this historic square transforms into one of the city’s best-loved food courts, with stalls serving all Moroccan delicacies, including grilled meats, kebabs, and tagines. Kiosks also sell freshly squeezed fruit juice and sweet treats such as baklava and crepes.
Be sure to visit in the evening to get a full experience of this bustling scene! To top it off, you can take in some traditional entertainment such as:
- Acrobats
- Belly dancers
- Fire eaters
Who entertain passersby until the late hours of the night.
Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is a beautiful and iconic landmark located in the heart of Marrakech, Morocco. The mosque stands tall and impressive, with the 12th-century structure enveloped by lush green trees offering a majestic and unique sight to behold. Built in the Almohad sound style, the Koutoubia Mosque was initially constructed by Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur, who took office from 1184 to 1199 as ruler of Morocco. The mosque bears extravagant architectural details throughout its grandiose hall allowing for a truly awe-inspiring experience.
The centric design of Koutoubia Mosque is captivating, with its prayer hall situated in the middle covered by four archetypal columns and multiple domes decorated with an intricate kaleidoscope pattern. There are three exterior columns made of pink sandstone which stretch up 25 meters from the bottom to reach above the perimeter walls reaching 70 meters above ground level at its highest point; these form three symmetrical terraces leading up to it and also enclose two distinctive minarets along with numerous buttresses running around them. While entry is restricted because it is an active mosque, visitors can still take some peeks on guided tours or sightseeing trips. An inner courtyard provides visitors with a beautiful opportunity to relax after visiting other nearby attractions such as Souk Semmarine and Mouassine Mosque.
Overall, while Marrakech has plenty of things to offer tourists during their stay, this beautiful mosque standing tall in its old Alhambra style stands out among them as the must-see location for those interested in religious sites or architecture history buffs!
Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs in Marrakech, Morocco, are magnificent 16th-century mausoleums built by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur. They are located in the Kasbah Mosque of Morocco’s oldest imperial dynasties. This impressive necropolis comprises mausoleums, tombs, and grand gardens, hosting a collection of cenotaphs from Ahmad al-Mansur and his family.
The gardens are planted with fruit trees and ornamental plants such as roses and jasmine, adding to the spectacular atmosphere of the place. The tombs’ façades have been expertly decorated with red marble patterns and brilliant stucco carvings in an imposing yet delicate blend of artistry. Ornamental tiles abound along the walls, and artfully carved wooden doors lead from entries into multiple chambers where tourists can marvel at the 18th-century royal decorations inlaid with gold trimmings, ivory carvings, and glazed earthenware pieces that reflect traditional Moroccan art forms.
The Saadian Tombs serve as a vivid reminder of the times when Marrakech was the home to one of Africa’s wealthiest dynasties. This site is well worth visiting for anyone traveling in or around Marrakech for its beauty and profound historical significance.
Casablanca
Casablanca, Morocco, is a bustling city known for its art deco architecture, diverse culture, and dynamic nightlife. It is the largest city in the country and is a significant business hub, making it a popular destination for business travelers. But the city also offers a variety of attractions for tourists. Casablanca has something for everyone, from sandy beaches and markets to luxurious restaurants.
Let’s look at some of the best attractions in the city:
Hassan II Mosque
Hassan II Mosque is a notable attraction in Casablanca, Morocco, and one of the largest mosques in the world. It was designed by French architect Michel Pinseau and built between 1988 and 1993 – just in time for its inauguration to mark the 14th century from Morocco’s foundation as an Islamic state. As a result, the mosque has become a famous symbol of Moroccan identity and is seen as an expression of religious devotion.
The distinctive architecture of the mosque stands out against the city skyline; its unique minaret rises 200 meters above sea level, making it the tallest minaret in the world. Inside, high-tech systems control everything from temperature to lights, and carpets that swell with air when people walk on them help to reduce noise from footsteps. King Hassan used some of his funds to finance this project, which features intricate designs reminiscent of traditional Islamic art/adobe architecture with some glass surfaces that create light reflections that can be viewed from different angles both inside and outside.
The exterior walls are adorned with intricate columns and marble works imported from Italy. Inside, you’ll find even more stunning tile work with calligraphy scrawled across them – it reads “There is no God but Allah” in all four directions simultaneously! There are also arches above your head made with white marble and granite balconies overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the interior cityscape. You’ll find yourself lost in a maze-like structure if you spend long enough time there. With a central hall able to accommodate 25,000 worshippers at once, this remarkable site will captivate your imagination for hours on end!
Casablanca Cathedral
Casablanca Cathedral, or the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is a striking structure in the Ain Diab district of Casablanca. The Roman Catholic cathedral was built in 1930 on land given by King Mohammed V. It was designed under the legal supervision of Victor Genard, who designed many historical buildings during the French colonization.
The exterior masonry and interior walls are built with solid blocks of white limestone from Monsaraz, decorating all entrances and standing at the center of a small enclosed garden surrounded by an iron fence.
The main body of Casablanca Cathedral has three bays with an open porch supported on freestanding colonnades—twenty-eight columns with Corinthian capitals supporting horizontal lintels that diverge outwardly and terminate in baroque shape segments at each side. Inside there is a beautifully decorated ceiling with religious art adorning it. Beside it is a baptismal font located behind one of two grand doors that open to the public courtyard, two large semi-circles bounding together to form one roof fit over stone columns to create dual porticos.
An enormous freestanding central bell tower rises high above the roofline. It features four faces sporting clocks set among intricate inset tile patterns covering its uppermost quarters and twelve orientated columns sustaining its charm from base to top. Strategically placed stained glass windows round off this breathtaking attraction between Avenue de Copenhague and the Avenue d’Oran area in central Casablanca!
Casablanca Twin Center
Casablanca, often referred to as the economic capital of Morocco, is home to one of the world’s oldest ports, featuring hundreds of years of Moroccan and colonial architecture. Transportation options are plentiful in Casablanca, from historical cable cars that traverse the city’s urban centers to trams and buses servicing commuters. It also hosts one of Morocco’s most iconic attractions – The Twin Center.
The Twin Center consists of two skyscrapers – Tour Habous and Tour Ain Diab. The former is located in the ancient Medina (walled city) just north of Casablanca’s Old City Hall – an exceptional piece of colonial architecture in its own right! This first tower houses several cozy restaurants, abundant office space, and homes with stunning views over the rooftops. Tour Ain Diab was built a few years later, between 1990 and 1990, and towers an impressive 180 meters tall. From here, you can enjoy incredible 360-degree views across Casablanca while savoring scrumptious refreshments in one of two restaurants or sipping drinks at the uniquely located rooftop bar – perfect for romantic sunsets or a sunset dinner with friends! This modern complex also contains numerous stores for clothes shopping and souvenirs, as well as local eateries offering traditional Moroccan cuisine.
For visitors to this modern destination, there are plenty more attractions than those found within the Twin Center – from historical monuments to endless beaches nearby, both day trips away! So whether you’re exploring on foot via tram or simply relaxing at any one of these fascinating attractions, you are bound to discover something new while visiting Casablanca’s much-loved Twin Center!
Fes
Fes is Morocco’s second-largest city and has been an essential cultural center since medieval times. It is home to some of the most breathtaking sights in Morocco, such as the Fes el Bali old city. This ancient walled city is a marvel of Islamic architecture, with its narrow streets and vibrant souks full of traditional wares and artisans. Numerous mosques and madrasas are scattered throughout the city, symbolizing Fes’ cultural heritage.
Fes el Bali
Fes el Bali is an old fortified city in Fès, Morocco. It has been called Morocco’s largest medieval Medina and is considered one of the best attractions in Morocco. The ancient city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is heavily protected by Moroccan law. It is said to have over 9000 streets and alleyways, making it a fascinating destination for tourists and locals alike.
The core of Fez consists of two separate cities – the French-built New Fes or Ville Nouvelle de Fes, built outside the Medieval walls, and Fes el Bali or an old town still surrounded by its Medieval walls giving it the unique labyrinthine character that makes it, so endearing to visitors. The Medina of Fez contains 9400 narrow streets that make up a breathtaking display of architecture and handicraft souks, some dating back from the 11th century.
Most visitors come only for a day, but you can also spend several days exploring mosques, tanneries (where leather goods are made), gardens, fountains, and beautiful riads (traditional Morrocan houses).
When visiting the Old City, expect to find plenty of life on every street corner filled with leather tanners and artisans at work in their workshops alongside traditional markets filled with beautiful spices to scent your home! One tradition in Fes el Bali that should not be missed is the local cuisine. You can find everything from couscous served on street corners to gourmet delights in exquisitely decorated restaurants. Shopping at local markets selling carpets and fabrics woven by hand or even picking up some souvenirs while relaxing while enjoying a cup of tea with locals will ensure your visit will be unforgettable!
Medersa Bou Inania
Medersa Bou Inania is a prestigious madrassa located in the ancient city of Fes. It was constructed in 1350 by Sultan Abu Inan Faris, Meursa Bou Inania remains one of Morocco’s most important and best-preserved monuments.
The entrance of the quiet, serene building is made out of an elaborately decorated cedar door. It provides a gateway into an incredible Muslim sacred structure designed with intricate mosaics, marble floors, and frescoes.
The establishment also serves as a theological school where students can study the Islamic religion as they learn its core values of faith, justice, and equity. Upon entry, visitors will find themselves walking through the mesmerizing pleasance surrounded by twisting alleys filled with several ornate courtyards connected to prayer chambers elaborately adorned with zellige tiles and intricate wood-carving details.
Consisting of two stories separated by a courtyard featuring gardens and a fountain, Medersa Bou Inania boasts various arcades where visitors can admire impressive domed roofs and striking mosaics. An adjacent minaret offers breathtaking views over multiple red-roofed neighborhoods that expand across Fes’ ancient walled city.
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts
The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts is situated in the ancient city center of Fez, Morocco. The museum was built to illustrate the traditional arts and crafts still used today by locals in Medina (an old city). It comprises two major parts: an antique natural archaeological fountain that is believed to date back over 600 years ago and a complex museum displaying woodwork, carvings, furniture, and artifacts made by skilled workers.
At the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts, visitors can take guided tours to learn more about craftsmanship’s history. There are also a variety of workshops where visitors have a hands-on experience building their items from wood inlaid with zinc. In addition, many locals visit here for courses in mastering various carpentry techniques like intarsia (woodblock assembling) or sculpting intricate shapes from raw lumber.
The complex also contains various installations showing examples of local crafts being practiced even today, such as blacksmithing or crafting Berber carpets. In addition, visitors can witness different art pieces being made as some artisans prepare displays from start to finish live at the museum. Overall, it’s a beautiful place to explore traditional Moroccan culture while supporting local artisans in their craft.
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is a stunning hillside town in the Rif Mountains of northwestern Morocco. The town is known for its distinctive blue-washed homes and buildings and picturesque Medina. It’s a great place to visit, as it offers a variety of attractions, from its historical monuments, winding streets, and vibrant culture.
Let’s explore more of what Chefchaouen has to offer:
Riff Mountains
Located south of Tangier in the northwest corner of Morocco, the Riff Mountains are home to Chefchaouen, one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. The town is nicknamed “The Blue City” thanks to its blue-washed architecture and surrounding blue mountain views. The backdrop of mountains and striking blue buildings make this small Moroccan city a photographer’s paradise.
The surrounding Riff Mountains are an even bigger attraction, offering spectacular views and plenty of opportunities for exploration. For example, visitors can hike to Mount Khemissa for a bird’s eye view over Chefchaouen or explore small villages in the mountainside, like Akchour and Talassemtane, where you can try traditional Moroccan food or visit nearby waterfalls.
From gorges, secret valleys, and hidden waterfalls to stunning peaks, caves, ravines, and wildlife – Riff Mountains offer some truly spectacular sights that deserve at least a few hours away from soaking up Chefchauen’s alluring charm. With so many wonders waiting to be discovered, likely, one visit will not be enough!
Ras El Ma
The Ras El Ma, or “Head of the Water,” is a beautiful natural waterfall in Chefchaouen, Morocco. This popular tourist destination in the Rif Mountains features stunning views of the nearby Moulouya River. Visitors to Ras El Ma will be delighted with its picturesque scenery and tranquil atmosphere.
Ras El Ma is formed from several narrow streams on Jebel Khezam, one of the highest peaks in northern Morocco. It cascades down large stone steps into a pool, creating a breathtaking and serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Along its route are several pools that can be reached by walking paths up the rocks or by taking one of several wooden bridges across the river for fantastic views of both sides.
Ras El Ma can also be reached by taking a 5-kilometer hike from The Valley at Talassemtane National Park. The entire area surrounding Ras El Ma is filled with diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. With stunning sunsets, stunning views, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder this place remains an ever-popular attraction in Chefchaouen!
Kasbah of Chefchaouen
Kasbah of Chefchaouen is a five-story fortress that stands watch over northern Morocco’s ancient Medina (old city). Constructed in the 17th century, Kasbah was originally an army barracks and later served as a prison. Today, it holds one of the best museums in Morocco, devoted to regional arts and crafts.
The fortress walls provide a stunning landscape backdrop as you climb its winding staircases and explore its many courtyards and chambers. Admire ancient stone carvings inside interior rooms and traditional artwork by local artists. Be sure to follow the map provided at the entrance to ensure that you don’t miss anything!
Kasbah of Chefchaouen is just one of many attractions that draw visitors to this exotic destination. Don’t forget to spend some time exploring its famous blue-washed streets, cafés, restaurants, and bazaars for an unforgettable Moroccan experience!
Merzouga
Merzouga is a desert village in Morocco that lies close to the Algerian border in the Sahara Desert. It’s home to one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural attractions, the Erg Chebbi dunes.
This desert oasis’s golden sands and rolling dunes create an impressive landscape perfect for exploring. Learn more about what makes Merzouga a great destination and why you should consider visiting this Moroccan village.
Erg Chebbi
Erg Chebbi is an impressive dune sea located in the southeast of Morocco. Merzouga, a small village in the heart of this desert landscape, offers a unique opportunity to experience this natural phenomenon. At more than 20 kilometers wide and nearly nine kilometers long, the Erg Chebbi dunes have been designated as a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2002. These sandy hills are a scenic marvel featuring dozens of golden dunes that reach heights of up to 150 meters.
The beauty of Erg Chebbi is that no two dunes look the same – waves and patterns on the sand ridges are created by variable wind direction and strength, leaving anywhere from ripples to sharp ridges along their crests. As a result, depending on where one stands within Erg Chebbi, stunning sunset hues can turn from deep oranges to brilliant purples and blues as the sun slowly moves away from view during its descent below the horizon line.
Best experienced between October and March when temperatures remain pleasant for longer periods during these months, Erg Chebbi provides visitors with an extraordinary land-based excursion scene where they can traverse across its dunes in camel rides or spend time camping under bare starlight or blankets with local nomads as guides – visitors take note; some camps require advanced bookings for security reasons!
Merzouga Camel Trek
Merzouga is a small desert town on Morocco’s edge of the Sahara Desert. The perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Merzouga offers beautiful dunes and abundant adventure activities. However, one of the most thrilling things to do in Merzouga is to take a camel trek.
Camel trekking is an engaging experience, as it allows you to travel through some of Merzouga’s breathtakingly beautiful desert terrain, including traditional settlements, abandoned mining areas, and dunes. From Merzouga, camels will take you across the expanse of sand for sunrises, and sunsets like never before seen – and let you witness iconic landmarks such as Khamlia Village (the home of Gnawa musicians) and Erg Chebbi dune (a large sand-dune formation that’s perfectly visible from space).
Most treks are undertaken with an experienced guide who will provide all necessary equipment, such as tents, carpets, and food items, depending upon your trek duration. Relaxing aboard a traditional camel surrounded by magnificent Morocco scenery will leave you with cherished memories, so remember to bring a camera to capture these unique wonders.
Rabat
Rabat, the capital of Morocco, is a city full of historic sites, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions. Visitors to Rabat can take in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from the Kasbah of the Udayas, explore the old city medinas, or visit the stunning Grand Mosque of Hassan II.
There are many things to do and see in Rabat, and it is sure to be a memorable experience for any traveler:
- Take breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from the Kasbah of the Udayas.
- Explore the old city medinas.
- Visit the stunning Grand Mosque of Hassan II.
Kasbah of the Udayas
The Kasbah of the Udayas, a citadel in Rabat, is a frequently visited landmark and one of the main attractions in Morocco. Built in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty, it is perched atop a hill overlooking the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic Ocean. The Udayas was originally used to protect Rabat from potential invaders but today serves as an important cultural heritage site with culturally significant architecture.
Visitors to the site will find two central red brick towers, one with seven stories and another with three stories, that provide an impressive visual when viewed from below. In addition, visitors can explore walled-in gardens with pathways leading up to terraces overlooking both Old Rabat and modern glimpses of Rabat along its harbor front. Restored monuments can also be found, such as medresas (Qur’anic schools), baths, and old mosques that further evoke a sense of history throughout this richly meaningful place.
The Kasbah of the Udayas is well maintained with guarded doors at its entrance, where visitors are required to pay a minimal fee upon entry. In addition, many restaurants line the streets around this citadel, providing ample opportunity for dining or just relaxing over some warm tea after taking in all this historic sight has to offer!
Hassan Tower
The Hassan Tower is a minaret located in Rabat, Morocco. It is one of two 12th-century towers making up a larger complex called the Tour Hassan. The complex was created as a memorial to Sultan Yacub al-Mansur, buried beneath the stone floor at its base.
The tower was completed in 1195. It stands nearly 200 feet tall and offers spectacular views from its location atop a hill in this ancient city. The tower and its complementing Mausoleum of Mohamed V have been considered archaeological and religious monuments constructed out of red stone that glistens in the bright North African sun. Visitors can also marvel at intricate carvings across their surfaces, believed to be symbolic calligraphy telling tales about ancient Muslim leaders buried within their bowels.
The architecture follows traditional Islamic guidelines for structures honoring religious figures. However, the appearance of both structures suggests influence from other parts of the world: architects believe that some aspects of the design are reminiscent of Gothic window frames commonly seen in France during this period. Combined with features found in Andalusian style construction popular during this time, they make an impressive sight not soon forgotten by any who pass by them.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V
The Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco, is one of the grandest sites in the city and one of its main attractions. This magnificent building was built to honor the dynasty’s founder, sultan Mohammed V, and his sons, the late King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah.
The mausoleum complex was completed in 1999 and featured a blend of Moroccan and modern architectural styles. The bottom of the building is a white-marble courtyard surrounded by tiles with traditional Moroccan motifs. The mausoleum’s exterior walls are decorated with intricate geometric patterns in green and yellow tiles contrasting against the marble columns and crenelated towers above. At night, when illuminated by multicolor lights, it has an otherworldly beauty that draws visitors throughout the year.
Once inside, guests can admire ornately decorated gold-leafed ceilings topped by intricately carved cedarwood doors set between tall marble columns leading to twelve small chambers around the walls. Each section contains a white marble sarcophagus engraved with verses from the Qur’an representing kings Hassan II and Mohammed V, as well as Prince Abdallah, laid to rest here. An adjacent mosque makes this site a religious beacon in Rabat, visited daily by locals and tourists who come to pay their respects or enjoy its stunning architecture.