12 AMAZING Things to Do in Morocco (Top Attractions & Hidden Gems)

Morocco hit me like a blast of spice from a street food stall. Standing in Marrakech’s main square for the first time, I couldn’t believe my eyes—snake charmers doing their thing right next to sizzling food carts, the smell of grilled meat and mint tea everywhere, and the sunset call to prayer making it all feel surreal. I swear, no photo could have prepared me for this.

After two weeks exploring the best things to do in Morocco, from getting lost in Chefchaouen’s bright blue streets to riding a camel through the Sahara at sunset, I get why people rave about this place. Trust me, this isn’t your typical vacation spot. Let me show you the spots that made me fall in love with this wild corner of North Africa.

Best Things to Do in Morocco

Looking for the coolest things to do in Morocco? Wander through the blue streets of Chefchaouen, explore the historic Ancient City of Fez, visit the vibrant city of Marrakesh, relax in the beautiful Majorelle Garden, and discover the coastal charm of Essaouira. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, here are the top attractions to visit in Morocco.

1. Chefchaouen

Tucked in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is one of those places that looks like a dream but feels surprisingly real. Every alley is splashed in shades of blue—from powdery pastels to deep cobalt—and it makes wandering around feel like a visual cleanse. The main square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam, is a good starting point. Grab a mint tea and people-watch as the town slowly comes to life. From there, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of shops selling rugs, woven blankets, and goat cheese.

I stayed in a riad near the Kasbah Museum, and I’d wake up to a view of blue rooftops stretching into the hills. The laid-back vibe here was a nice break from the buzz of bigger cities like Marrakesh. Whether you’re hiking to the Ras El Ma waterfall or snapping photos of blue-painted doors, Chefchaouen makes slowing down feel like an activity in itself.

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2. Fez

If you’re into historic cities with real character, Fez will keep you busy for days. The old city, Fes el-Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with maze-like streets, centuries-old mosques, and markets selling everything from brass lanterns to handwoven textiles. You can’t drive in this part of town—it’s all foot traffic, donkeys, and carts—which somehow adds to the charm.

I checked out the Chouara Tannery, and the smell hit before I even got close. They handed out fresh mint at the entrance, which definitely helped. Still, watching the dyeing process from a rooftop terrace was worth it. The University of Al Quaraouiyine—founded in 859—is also here, and it’s considered the world’s oldest continuously operating university. Fez is gritty, intense, and unforgettable. If you like cities that are a little chaotic but packed with stories, this one’s for you.

3. Marrakesh

Walking into Marrakesh’s Jemaa el-Fnaa at sunset felt like jumping into a live movie set. There were snake charmers, steaming tagines, and rows of lanterns lighting up as the sky turned orange. The Medina is the heart of the city, and while it’s chaotic, it’s also hypnotic. You’ll hear drums, flutes, and the occasional shout from a vendor offering saffron or slippers.

I got lost in the souks more times than I care to admit, but each turn led to something cool—leather goods, hand-painted ceramics, or tiny cafes tucked behind unmarked doors. When it got too hectic, I ducked into the Majorelle Garden, where the cobalt blue walls and quiet pools gave my senses a break. Marrakesh doesn’t ease you in—it throws you right into the action. And honestly, I loved every second of it.

4. The Majorelle Garden

In the middle of Marrakesh’s hustle, Majorelle Garden feels like another world. Designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, it’s a peaceful hideaway packed with tropical plants, cacti, and pops of that signature electric blue everywhere you look. The colors and layout are so intentional, it’s more like walking through a painting than a garden.

I went in the late morning, and the light bouncing off the blue walls was unreal. The Berber Museum inside the garden is small but full of intricate jewelry, textiles, and historical artifacts that add context to Morocco’s indigenous culture. It doesn’t take long to walk the whole garden, but it stays with you. If the Marrakesh Medina gets overwhelming, this is where you recharge—quiet paths, fountains, and plenty of spots to sit and breathe.

5. Essaouira

If you’re craving ocean air and laid-back vibes, Essaouira is the place to be. This coastal town on Morocco’s Atlantic side is known for its windy beaches, blue boats, and medina that’s easy to navigate without GPS or stress. I stayed in a riad five minutes from Skala de la Kasbah, and the view from the ramparts over the ocean at sunset was unbeatable.

The medina has a totally different pace than Marrakesh—fewer crowds, friendly shopkeepers, and galleries everywhere. I stumbled into a music shop where a guy let me try a guembri, and somehow that turned into a full-on jam session. If you’re into surfing, windsurfing, or just eating fresh seafood right by the water, this town makes it easy. Essaouira hits that perfect balance of culture, chill, and coastal charm without trying too hard.

6. Meknes

Meknes doesn’t get as much attention as Fez or Marrakesh, but that’s part of what makes it great. The pace is slower, the streets are wider, and the architecture feels straight out of a history book. I started at Bab Mansour, one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco, and wandered into the Royal Stables of Moulay Ismail, which once housed thousands of horses.

What stood out to me most was how peaceful the city felt. Even the medina had a more local, lived-in vibe. The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is open to non-Muslims, and it’s a quiet, ornate space that contrasts with the noisy energy of other Moroccan cities. If you’re looking to explore somewhere with rich history and fewer crowds, Meknes is a solid choice. And bonus—it’s only about an hour from Volubilis if you’re into ancient Roman ruins.

7. Todra Gorge

Driving through the Todra Gorge in the High Atlas Mountains felt like stepping into a canyon carved by giants. Towering cliffs rise on either side of a narrow road, and just when you think it can’t get more dramatic, you reach the heart of the gorge where climbers scale sheer rock walls like it’s nothing. I watched a group set up their gear and was tempted to try, but stuck to hiking instead.

There’s a short, scenic trail that runs along the Todra River, with views of date palms, Berber villages, and goats perched in impossible places. Local vendors set up small stalls by the water selling handmade jewelry and scarves. The whole area feels both wild and welcoming. Whether you’re a climber or just there for the views, Todra Gorge is one of those places that completely takes you by surprise.

8. Dades Valley

The drive through Dades Valley is full of hairpin turns, terraced fields, and red cliffs that glow gold at sunset. This slice of the High Atlas is dotted with tiny Berber villages, and every few miles you’ll pass a kasbah that looks like it came straight from a postcard. I stayed overnight in a guesthouse carved into the hillside, and the view over the valley at dawn was unreal.

There’s a spot called Monkey Fingers with rock formations that look like giant hands coming out of the earth. I joined a short local-led hike there and even spotted a few falcons overhead. If you’re after a road trip with scenery that changes every hour—and want to escape the tourist rush—Dades Valley is the move. It’s calm, breathtaking, and perfect for slow travel. Just bring a camera and expect to stop a lot.

9. Rabat

Rabat isn’t on most travelers’ radars—but it absolutely should be. As Morocco’s capital, it blends history and coastal calm without the chaos of Marrakesh or Fez. I didn’t expect to like it so much, but strolling through Kasbah of the Udayas overlooking the Atlantic completely changed my mind. The blue-and-white streets there are peaceful, photogenic, and nearly empty on weekday mornings.

You can tour the massive Royal Palace, explore the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, or hang out in the Andalusian Gardens within the kasbah walls. Rabat also has one of the cleanest and most walkable waterfronts in the country. Locals picnic along the Bouregreg River, and it’s easy to hop on the tram to get around. If you want history, coastal views, and a more relaxed vibe all in one, Rabat quietly delivers on every front.

10. Casablanca

Casablanca is where Morocco’s old world meets its cosmopolitan future. It’s not as postcard-pretty as Chefchaouen, but that’s kind of the point. This is where you come for sleek cafes, art deco buildings, and the jaw-dropping Hassan II Mosque—which has the tallest minaret in the world and is open to non-Muslim visitors (rare in Morocco). I joined a guided tour and couldn’t stop staring at the hand-carved marble and oceanfront prayer hall.

The city’s food scene is also worth noting. I grabbed lunch at La Sqala, a garden restaurant set inside an old fortress, and it was one of my favorite meals in the country. Casablanca is also home to local surf spots, hip rooftop bars, and stylish boutiques. It’s a great place to catch your breath between desert excursions or get a feel for modern Moroccan life without giving up on the charm.

11. Agadir

If you’re after a beach break, Agadir is your place. It has wide sandy beaches, a breezy promenade, and sunny weather almost year-round. It’s not as traditional as other Moroccan cities, since much of it was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1960. But that’s part of what makes it feel more modern and easygoing. I spent two days lounging on Agadir Beach and walking the strip lined with cafes and ice cream shops.

You can take a cable car up to the Agadir Oufella Ruins for views over the bay, or head to the Souk El Had for spices, fruits, and handmade goods at local prices. It’s also a great launch point for day trips to Paradise Valley or the surfing town of Taghazout. Agadir might not have the drama of the Atlas or Sahara, but if you want sun and sea without fuss, it nails it.

12. Volubilis

You don’t expect to find Roman ruins in Morocco, but Volubilis makes you stop and stare. Located near Meknes, this UNESCO World Heritage site is full of stunning floor mosaics, crumbling columns, and panoramic views of the Zerhoun Mountains. I took a morning train from Fez, then grabbed a cab to the site—and it was completely worth the effort.

What really stood out were the mosaics. You’ll find scenes of Bacchus, Orpheus, and everyday Roman life still visible after centuries. There’s a surreal quality to walking through ancient temples and olive presses in the middle of rural Morocco. You don’t need a guide, but hiring one at the gate gave the ruins more context. Volubilis is quiet, easy to navigate, and makes for one of the most unexpected and fascinating stops in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Things to Do in Morocco

Looking for more content on the top things to do in Morocco? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help you plan your trip to Morocco:

What are the best places to visit in Morocco?

The best places to visit in Morocco include Chefchaouen, Fez, the Sahara Desert for camel trekking, the Atlas Mountains, the Cascades d’Ouzoud, and Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech. Moreover, you can also visit Tin Mal Mosque, traditional Moroccan markets, Bab Oudaïa in Rabat, Kasbah Telouet, Jemaa el Fna in Marrakech, Todra Gorge, the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas to see Barbary apes, Sidi Ifni, Asilah, Essaouira, the ruins of Volubilis, Tangier, and Casablanca.

What are the must-do activities in Morocco?

Must-do activities in Morocco include trekking in the Atlas Mountains, traversing the Sahara on camel-back, surfing along the Atlantic Coast, exploring the blue city of Chefchaouen, marveling at the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, shopping for traditional crafts, savoring traditional tea, and diving into the busy life of Jemaa el Fna in Marrakech.

What is the best time to visit Morocco?

The best time to visit Morocco is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). The weather is warm but pleasant, unlike the cold temperatures and snow of winter, or the scorching heat of summer.

What are the traditional foods to try in Morocco?

Traditional Moroccan foods to try include couscous, tagine, pastilla, harira, and mint tea. In addition, Moroccan cuisine is a mix of Berber, Arabic, Andalusian, and Mediterranean cuisines with a slight European and Sub-Saharan influence.

Is it safe to travel to Morocco?

Yes, Morocco is generally safe for travelers. However, like any tourist destination, it’s important to stay alert, especially in crowded areas, and take precautions to secure personal belongings.

How to spend 7 days in Morocco?

A week in Morocco can be a whirlwind of unforgettable experiences. Start in Marrakech, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the Medina, then head to the Atlas Mountains for a taste of Berber culture, followed by a journey to the Sahara Desert for a night under the stars. Finish off with a visit to the coastal city of Essaouira for some fresh seafood and a stroll along its beautiful beaches.

Is Morocco worth visiting?

Absolutely, Morocco waits to be discovered as a treasure trove of experiences. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the tranquil beauty of the Sahara Desert, the country offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Morocco

Morocco is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the blue city of Chefchaouen to the bustling square of Jemaa el Fna in Marrakech, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re trekking in the Atlas Mountains, exploring ancient ruins, or savoring traditional Moroccan cuisine, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Remember to respect local customs and traditions, and most importantly, enjoy the magic that is Morocco.