Known as the "Red City" because of its ochre-colored buildings, Marrakech is exciting and chaotic, pulsating with life. The mixture here is ancient tradition mixed with contemporary energy. The Jemaa el-Fnaa is a must-see: the heart of Marrakech's medina. During the day, it is a market filled with people buying traditional Moroccan goods-spices, carpets, and what have you. At night it is a carnival of food stalls, music, and performers.
Overlooking the medina is Koutoubia, the most famous landmark in Marrakech, with a 70-meter-high minaret. The Bahia Palace, with its beautiful inlay tile work, wood carvings, and gardens, will transport you to another world. Lastly, do not leave Marrakech without visiting the Majorelle Garden-an oasis of exotic plants and cobalt blue architecture.
Often said to be the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco, Fes contains one of the world's largest and best-preserved medieval cities. The ancient medina, Fes el Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow alleys and bustling souks filled with historic landmarks. The Al Quaraouiyine University, founded in 859 A.D., is considered one of the oldest universities in the world functioning in continuation.
Fes medina is also well-known for the tanneries, where hides are dyed in large vats of stones from an animal. The brilliant colors of the tanneries tell stories of the Moroccan traditional arts of dyeing. Another must-see for those interested in Islamic culture would be the Bou Inania Madrasa, a theological college that adorns the land with beautiful architecture.
Situated in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is one of the most gorgeous towns in Morocco, famous for its cobalt blue buildings. Tranquil streets offer a peaceful respite from the bustling cities with stunning mountain views and a carefree aura. The Kasbah Museum provides an overview of the history of the town, and a short hike will let you bask in the scenic beauty beside the Ras El Maa waterfall.
Thanks to its serene beauty, Chefchaouen is a superb retreat for photographers and artisans alike. Walking through the medina, one will be able to find wonderful souvenirs in the form of local crafts, including woven blankets and hand-painted pottery.
You could never say you have really been to Morocco without seeing the vast Sahara Desert. The desert excursions mostly start from the town of Merzouga, which lies close to the towering Erg Chebbi sand dunes. From here, camel caravans wind across the gold dunes, and one watches a magical sunset on the dunes.
The more memorable experience is to sleep overnight in a desert camp under the stars, with Berber hospitality, music, and cuisine. The stark beauty of the Sahara commands humility and amazement, promising adventure and serenity in a way few other places can.
Casablanca, lacking this ancient charm typical of Marrakech or Fes, is still the largest city in Morocco and a central cultural and economic hub. The Hassan II mosque is a marvel of modern architecture, having the tallest minaret in the world. Considering its dramatic oceanfront setting and detailed artistic design, it ranks among Morocco's must-see sites.
The other face of Casablanca was always to show Morocco's colonial history through French-style architecture and its bustling streets. Go and plunge into its Quartier Habous, where artisan shops and traditional markets await you, or head to the Corniche, the lively seaside promenade.
As Morocco's capital, Rabat offers a much more laid-back and less touristy experience than the other imperial cities. The medina here is charming and less expansive than those in Marrakech or Fes but well maintained. Famous sights include the massive Hassan Tower, the incomplete minaret of a vast mosque, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which provides a beautiful example of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture.
The Kasbah of the Udayas offers a quiet retreat with its Andalusian gardens and sweeping views of the Bou Regreg River. There is also an active cultural life to discover in Rabat, with several museums and galleries well worth a visit.
Often eclipsed by the other two better-known ones, Iznik is an imperial city that promises that peaceful charm. Its biggest attraction is undoubtedly the monumental Bab Mansour gate, one of the finest examples of Moroccan architecture. The city is also home to the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail, which is one of very few mosques in Morocco that non-Muslims can visit.
And a leisurely ride from Meknes will take you to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The wonderfully preserved mosaics and ruins of temples and homes offer a fascinating perspective into Morocco's Roman past.
For sun-seekers and beach lovers, Agadir is Morocco's prime beach address. Situated on the Atlantic coast, Agadir enjoys a modern beachfront peppered with luxurious hotels, restaurants, and shopping outlets. It would be hard to imagine how one could spend an entire relaxing holiday here without trying all sorts of water sports: surfing, sailing, and the like.
For a slice of culture, do visit the Agadir Kasbah, located on a hill with panoramas of the city and ocean. The vibrant market scene at Souk El Had is also not to be missed, alongside shopping for traditional crafts, spices, and fresh produce.
Essaouira is a charmingly laid-back coastal city, famous for its well-preserved medina and historic ramparts. The beach for this city is favored by windsurfers and kitesurfers due to the strong Atlantic winds. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, bustling with winding streets, art galleries, and traditional bazaars.
The Skala de la Ville is a fortress by the sea, with cannons lining the walls, making it one of the prime spots for taking in views of the ocean. The blue and white color scheme of Essaouira blends with the laid-back aura of the town, making it a must-see destination on anyone's Morocco itinerary.
For nature lovers and the outdoorsy, the Atlas Mountains constitute an excellent area for activities, ranging from hiking and trekking to mountain biking. The High Atlas accommodates Mount Toubkal, the highest summit in North Africa, drawing adventurers seeking a challenge.
Traditional Berber villages dot the landscape of the mountains, permitting visitors to experience a glimpse of their culture and hospitality. The Ourika valley is also famous for day trips, with its gorgeous waterfalls and hiking trails.
Morocco is a land that offers a wide range of experiences, from ancient cities and sprawling deserts to modern great cities and beautiful coasts. Whether you're a history buff, a culture geek, or an adventurer, Morocco has a spot for you. Do visit these top places to see in Morocco, and you will leave with remarkable memories of this fairy-tale land. These must-visit destinations are highlights of any well-rounded Morocco tour, offering memories that will last a lifetime.