Things to do in Morocco

Steeped in history, spanning miles of Mediterranean and Atlantic coastline, and boasting exciting attractions, Morocco is a sightseer's paradise. Part of the appeal is the inviting climate but there is so much more to this diverse and historically rich country than meets the eye. Within the enchanting medieval medinas of Fez and Marrakech, where snake charmers blow their hypnotic melodies amid the smell of the tanners' yards, and the hustle and bustle of the open-air markets, the fascinating and exotic soul of Morocco can really be glimpsed. With Phoenician, Hellenic, Carthaginian and Roman civilisations all having passed through Morocco, it's also worth revelling in the immensity of the country's past by exploring its countless museums, palaces, mosques, tombs and ruins.

Adventurous travellers can also head south to wander the hot desert sands of the Western Sahara, and see breathtaking landscapes that are a privilege to behold. Or for a completely unexpected holiday experience, visitors could head deep into the High Atlas Mountains for a skiing holiday. There are exciting 4x4, horseback and camelback treks to enjoy as well as lovely coastlines to see.

Many of the sights around the cities are best traversed on foot, but for those planning on crisscrossing the country, trunk-line trains run through the heart of Morocco, connecting over one hundred stations spread out over 1,184 miles (1,907km) of track. Bus travel is also a popular mode of transport.

Saadian Tombs photo

Saadian Tombs

The beautiful necropolis was built by the Saadian Sultan Ahmed el Mansour in the late 16th century as a final resting place for him and his successors. Having fallen into disrepair…

Oukaimeden photo

Oukaimeden

Thick snow envelops the Jebal Oukaimeden mountain peak during the winter months (usually January and February), and the desert ski resort is just a 46 mile (74km) drive from Marrak…

Ouirgane photo

Ouirgane

The village of Ouirgane, in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, about 90 minutes' drive from Marrakech, stands at the centre of a popular resort area, where summers are cooler an…

The Citadel of Chellah photo

The Citadel of Chellah

Emerging from the boulevards of the Ville Nouvelle (New Town) of Rabat, travellers will come across the ruins of Chellah. Once the thriving walled Roman port city of Sala Colonia, …

Volubilis photo

Volubilis

Volubilis lies near the Moroccan town of Meknes and is situated between Rabat and Fez. Historically it was a central Roman administrative city in Africa from around the third centu…

Majorelle Garden photo

Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden is a botanical garden designed by the French artist, Jacques Majorelle, in 1924. Previous owners have included Pierre Berge and Yves Saint-Laurent (whose ashes…

El Badi Palace photo

El Badi Palace

The El Badi Palace ('the incomparable palace') consists of the remnants of a glorious palace built by the Saadian King, Ahmad al-Mansur, in 1578. The original building is thought t…

Todra Gorge photo

Todra Gorge

The Todra Gorge, a canyon on the eastern side of the High Atlas Mountains, is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular natural attractions that Morocco has to offer. Nature lovers w…

Ait Benhaddou photo

Ait Benhaddou

Ait Benhaddou is an ancient fortified city (ksar) situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. It is certainly one of the most breathtaking tourist att…

Agadir photo

Agadir

The holiday destination of Agadir, south of Marrakech, is contemporary and fresh, and is fast developing into Morocco's major resort town. Agadier was rebuilt as an important seapo…

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