From labyrinthine medinas to bustling squares, millennia-old architecture and colorful facades, Morocco’s cities are exceptionally rich. Each tells a unique story, blending Berber, Arab, Andalucia and contemporary influences.
In this article, we share our selection of Morocco’s most beautiful cities, with practical tips for organizing your visits.
Note: This article focuses on cities to visit. If you’d like to find out where to stay in Maroc, check out our other article (coming soon).
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Morocco’s most beautiful cities: summary
Which cities in Morocco to visit? Quick response:
If you only have to visit 4, to discover different facets of the country:
- Marrakech (dynamic imperial city)
- Chefchaouen (blue city of the mountains)
- Fez (preserved medieval medina)
- Essaouira (Atlantic port city)
1. Marrakech
Why we love it
Marrakech embodies the soul of Morocco, with its vibrant energy and exceptional heritage. The imperial city fascinated us with the intensity of its Jemaa el-Fna square, a neuralgic point where storytellers, musicians and food stalls meet.
The architecture of the medina bears witness to ancestral know-how: palaces with sculpted ceilings, secret gardens hidden behind high walls, mosques adorned with colorful zelliges. We also appreciated the contrast between the old town and the modern quarters.
The omnipresent ochre color gives Marrakech a strong visual identity. The labyrinthine souks invite discovery, while the traditional riads offer havens of peace in the heart of the urban bustle.
Yes, it’s an extremely touristy city, but it deserves its popularity.
Attractions
- Jemaa el-Fna Square and its constant hustle and bustle
- The Bahia Palace and its refined courtyards
- The Jardin Majorelle and its emblematic blue
- The 16th-century Saadian tombs
- The Ben Youssef medersa and its stucco decorations
- Traditional souks by thematic district
- The Koutoubia and its 77m minaret
See all attractions in Marrakech.
Excursions and activities
Marrakech is the starting point for many adventures:
- Agafay Desert – see options
- Ouarzazate and the Unesco site of Ait Ben Haddou, like a huge sandcastle in the valley – see options
- The Imlil Valley for a change of scenery – see options
- Essaouira and its charming fishing port – see options
- Hot-air balloon flight – see options
Access and stay
- Center of the country, at the foot of the Atlas mountains
- From Casablanca: 240km (2h30 by car)
- From Essaouira: 190km (2h40 by car)
- From Fez: 530km (6h30 by car)
- Marrakech-Menara International Airport
If you’d like to stay there, check out our selection of the best hotels.
2. Chefchaouen
Why we love it
Nestled in the Rif mountains, Chefchaouen’s unique atmosphere won us over. The blue city gets its nickname from facades painted in different shades of azure, creating a photogenic backdrop around every corner.
We particularly appreciated the tranquility that reigns in this Berber city, contrasting with the bustle of the great imperial cities. The steep streets of the medina invite you to stroll, while local craftsmen perpetuate ancestral traditions.
Another reason to love Chefchaouen is its mountainous location. Views from the kasbah or the Spanish mosque take in the blue rooftops and surrounding peaks.
Attractions
- The blue medina and its photogenic alleys
- The 15th-century kasbah and its ethnographic museum
- Place Outa el Hammam, the heart of the city
- The Spanish mosque for panoramic views
- Akchour waterfalls in the vicinity
- Pont de Dieu (Farda Bridge), a natural formation
See all Chefchaouen attractions.
Access and stay
- Northern Morocco, Rif Mountains
- From Tangier: 110km (2h by car)
- From Tétouan: 60km (1h by car)
- From Fez: 200km (4h by car, mountain road)
If you’d like to stay there, check out our selection of the best hotels (coming soon).
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Maroc
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Adapt your choice of vehicle to your itinerary!
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
3. Fez
Why we love it
Fez is the spiritual and intellectual heart of Morocco. The imperial city transported us back in time with its remarkable authenticity. Fès el-Bali, the oldest medina in the Arab world still inhabited, forms a labyrinth where craft traditions have endured for centuries.
We were impressed by Al Quaraouiyine University, founded in 859 and considered the world’s oldest institution of higher learning. The tanneries of Chouara offer a colorful spectacle, even if the smells can be surprising.
Merinid architecture is revealed in the medersas adorned with zellige and carved wood. Fès retains an authentic medieval atmosphere that few cities can claim today.
Attractions
- The UNESCO-listed medina of Fès el-Bali
- The Chouara tanneries and their colorful vats
- The 14th-century Bou Inania medersa
- Al Quaraouiyine University (exterior view)
- The Royal Palace and its monumental golden gateway
- The Jewish quarter of Mellah
- Merinid tombs for city views
Excursions from Fez
Fez is the starting point for many adventures:
- Volubilis, a UNESCO-listed Roman city – see options
- Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, spiritual village – see options
- Meknes, the nearby imperial city – see options
Access and stay
- Northern Morocco, inland
- From Rabat: 200km (2h30 by car)
- From Meknes: 60km (1h by car)
- From Marrakech: 530km (6h30 by car)
- Fès-Saïss International Airport
If you’d like to stay there, check out our selection of the best hotels.
4. Essaouira
Why we love it
Essaouira unfolds its Atlantic charm in a relaxed atmosphere that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the big cities. The former Mogador won us over with its white and blue Portuguese architecture, its ramparts facing the ocean and its authentic fishing port.
We particularly enjoyed the airy medina, whose checkerboard layout makes it easy to explore. The constant trade winds make Essaouira a paradise for surfers and kitesurfers. The beach stretches for several kilometers, offering beautiful walks.
The town’s history can be seen in its 18th-century fortifications, art galleries and craftsmen’s workshops. Essaouira retains a bohemian soul that attracts artists and travelers in search of authenticity.
We recommend a visit after Marrakech for a moment of relaxation.
Attractions
- The fortified medina and its ramparts
- The fishing port and its fish market
- La Skala de la Ville, bastion facing the ocean
- Essaouira beach for kitesurfing
- Art galleries and artisan workshops
- The mellah, the old Jewish quarter
- Mogador Island offshore (bird sanctuary)
See all Essaouira attractions (coming soon).
Access and stay
- Atlantic coast, west
- From Marrakech: 190km (2h40 by car)
- From Casablanca: 360km (4h by car)
- From Agadir: 175km (3h by car)
If you’d like to stay there, check out our selection of the best hotels (coming soon).
5. Flap
Why we love it
Rabat combines the elegance of a modern capital with a remarkable historical heritage. The city charmed us with its peaceful atmosphere, less touristy than Marrakech or Fez. Wide, tree-lined avenues rub shoulders with a preserved medina and UNESCO-listed sites.
We were impressed by the Hassan Tower, the remains of an unfinished 12th-century Almohad mosque, and the Mohammed V mausoleum opposite. The Chellah archaeological site reveals Roman ruins set in a lush garden.
The Kasbah des Oudayas offers a haven of peace overlooking the ocean. Its white and blue streets are reminiscent of Mediterranean villages. Rabat strikes the perfect balance between tradition and modernity.
Attractions
- The Kasbah des Oudayas and its Andalusian garden
- The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
- Hassan Tower and Mohammed V mausoleum
- The Chellah archaeological site
- Rabat’s medina, less touristy
- Rabat beach along the Bouregreg river
Excursions
Rabat is the starting point for many adventures:
- Fez and its magnificent medina – see options
- Volubilis and its Roman remains – see options
- Discover Casablanca in 1 day – see options
- and much more, as Rabat is an ideal location for exploring Morocco.
See our selection of the best excursions from Rabat.
Access and stay
- Atlantic coast, administrative capital
- From Casablanca: 90km (1h by car)
- From Fez: 200km (2h30 by car)
- From Tangier: 250km (2h45 by car)
- Rabat-Salé International Airport
If you’d like to stay there, check out our selection of the best hotels.
6. Tangier
Why we love it
Tangier occupies a unique geographical position at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, facing the Strait of Gibraltar. The city fascinated us with its cosmopolitan history and distinctive atmosphere, nurtured by decades of international status.
We appreciated the recent transformations that have embellished the seafront and the medina. The Grand Socco marks the transition between the new town and the old city. Literary cafés bear witness to the bohemian past of writers and artists. Tangier reinvents itself while preserving its eclectic character.
The kasbah dominates the bay, offering panoramic views over two continents.
Attractions
- The Kasbah and the American Legation Museum
- Place du Grand Socco, gateway to the medina
- Cape Spartel and the Hercules Caves
- Ibn Battouta Exhibition Space
- The Perdicaris forest
- Tangier’s beaches (Achakar, Malabata)
Excursions
Tangier is well located for exploring:
- Cities Asilah, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Rabat, Casablanca
- Akchour waterfalls
- The Spanish enclave Cuta
Access and stay
- Far north of Morocco, Strait of Gibraltar
- From Chefchaouen: 110km (2h by car)
- From Tétouan: 60km (1h by car)
- From Rabat: 250km (2h45 by car)
- International port, ferry links to Spain
- Tangier Ibn Battouta International Airport
If you’d like to stay there, check out our selection of the best hotels.
A LITTLE MORE PATIENCE
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay at Maroc a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Coming soon!
7. Asilah
Why we love it
Asilah has all the charm of a small Mediterranean seaside town. This fortified town on the Atlantic coast seduced us with its white facades adorned with mural frescoes.
We enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the narrow streets. The 15th-century Portuguese ramparts border the ocean, creating romantic views. The compact medina is easy to navigate.
Asilah’s beach stretches for several kilometers, and is less crowded than those of the major seaside resorts. The town combines tranquility, culture and swimming, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
Attractions
- The white medina and its murals
- Portuguese ramparts facing the Atlantic
- The marine cemetery
- Asilah beach, long and sandy
- The Hassan II Center for International Encounters
Access and stay
- Northern Morocco, Atlantic coast
- From Tangier: 45km (40min by car)
- From Tétouan: 80km (1h15 by car)
- From Rabat: 200km (2h by car)
8. Meknes
Why we love it
Meknes is one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, but retains a more authentic character than its neighbors. We were impressed by the scale of the monuments built under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismaïl in the 17th century, who wanted to rival Versailles.
The monumental Bab Mansour gateway is one of the most beautiful in the Maghreb. The royal stables, which could accommodate 12,000 horses, bear witness to past grandeur.
We also enjoyed the less touristy medina, where traditional craftsmanship lives on. Meknes offers a comprehensive overview of Moroccan history, from the Romans to the Islamic dynasties.
Attractions
- Dar Jamaï Museum
- Bab Mansour, monumental 18th-century gateway
- The mausoleum of Moulay Ismaïl
- The former royal stables (Heri es-Souani)
- The medina and Place El-Hedim
- The Bou Inania medersa
- The Roman ruins of Volubilis (30km away)
Access and stay
- Northern Morocco, inland
- From Fez: 60km (1h by car)
- From Rabat: 140km (1h40 by car)
- From Casablanca: 240km (2h40 by car)
If you’d like to stay there, check out our selection of the best hotels (coming soon).
9. Tetouan
Why we love it
Tétouan boasts a Hispano-Moorish character that is unique in Maroc. The white city, nestled between sea and mountains, captivated us with its well-preserved Andalusian heritage. Founded in the 15th century by Muslim and Jewish refugees from Spain, it retains this influence in its architecture.
We particularly enjoyed the medina, a World Heritage site, whose regular layout contrasts with the usual labyrinths. The white facades, adorned with zellige and wrought ironwork, bear witness to a certain refinement.
The ethnographic museum provides an insight into local craftsmanship. Tetouan is also an excellent base for exploring the Mediterranean beaches and villages of the Rif.
Attractions
- The UNESCO-listed medina and its Andalucia architecture
- Royal Palace and the Khalifat Palace
- Dar El Oddi, house museum of Tetouan memories
- Tétouan Modern Art Center
- The archaeological museum
Excursions
From Tetouan, don’t miss out:
- Aïn Zarka, a popular local waterfall 20 min away
- Martil, the city by the sea
- The towns of Chefchaouen, Tangier, Assilah…
Access and stay
- Northern Morocco, at the foot of the Rif mountains
- From Tangier: 60km (1h by car)
- From Chefchaouen: 60km (1h by car)
- From Ceuta (Spanish enclave): 40km (35min)
If you’d like to stay there, check out our selection of the best hotels.
10 to 12 – 3 other towns to discover
If your trip to Morocco lasts longer, these complementary destinations are also worth a visit.
10. Taroudant
Taroudant embodies the authentic Morocco of the south, far from the usual tourist circuits. Nicknamed “little Marrakech”, we were charmed by its ochre ramparts stretching for 6km. Its position at the foot of the Atlas and Anti-Atlas mountains creates a spectacular mountain setting.
We enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere of the medina, where the locals go about their daily business undisturbed by the crowds.
See all Taroudant attractions (coming soon).
- Southern Morocco, Souss Valley
- From Agadir: 85km (1h by car)
11. Agadir
Agadir stands out as a modern seaside resort on the Atlantic. Rebuilt after the 1960 earthquake, the town boasts a long, sandy beach popular with surfers. We enjoyed the panoramic views from the lively corniche and the kasbah.
See all Agadir attractions (coming soon).
- Southern Morocco
- From Marrakech: 250km (3h drive).
12. Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is the gateway to the desert, at the foot of the High Atlas. This oasis town fascinated us with its Taourirt kasbah and the film studios that have hosted international productions. The surrounding mineral landscape creates a unique atmosphere.
See all Ouarzazate attractions (coming soon).
From Marrakech: 200km (4h drive over the Tichka pass).
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Morocco
- Best of
The most beautiful landscapes in Morocco
What to do in Morocco (coming soon)
The most beautiful riads
The most beautiful cities
The most beautiful medinas (coming soon)
The most beautiful gardens (coming soon)
The best museums (coming soon)
The most beautiful beaches in Morocco (coming soon)
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Morocco (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Morocco (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Marrakech
Casablanca
Fès
Meknès
Chefchaouen
Sahara Desert (coming soon)
SHE MADE THE TRIP Myriam
