12 Most Beautiful Places in Morocco to Visit (You Won’t Believe #5)

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Trust me on this: Morocco is magical. Every time I turned a corner, there was something that made me stop in my tracks – whether it was the chaos of Marrakech’s souks, the silence of the Sahara at sunrise, or the smell of fresh mint tea drifting through the old medinas.

From the snow-topped Atlas Mountains to the endless golden dunes, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Morocco that blew my mind. I’m already planning my next trip back!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Morocco

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Moroccan adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last fall, I flew to Marrakech for just $410 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by buying meals or ingredients from local souks and markets. Small local restaurants called ‘hole in the wall’ spots offer delicious tagines and couscous for 30-50 MAD ($3-5). For breakfast and lunch, street food like fresh bread, olives, and grilled meats are incredibly cheap. You’ll find ready-to-eat meals and snacks at larger supermarkets like Carrefour and Marjane.
• Transport: I recommend using the local buses and trains for intercity travel – book ONCF trains in advance online for the best rates. Within cities, petit taxis are affordable if you insist on using the meter. For day trips, joining a group tour often works out cheaper than hiring a private driver.

Morocco is one of North Africa’s most budget-friendly destinations. With these money-saving strategies, you can explore this colorful country at an even better value. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Morocco:

1. Meknes

• 📍 Location: Northern Morocco, near the Middle Atlas Mountains
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏰, architecture lovers 🧱, cultural travelers 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Bab Mansour, touring the Royal Stables, wandering the Medina
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for blooming gardens and mild weather 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Riad Yacout – Traditional riad with rooftop terrace and central location

Meknes doesn’t get as much hype as Marrakech or Fes, but that’s part of what makes it special. It’s more relaxed but still packed with stunning sights and deep history. You’ll get to explore massive gates like Bab Mansour, quiet courtyards, and mosques that feel almost untouched by time.

One of the coolest stops is the Royal Stables, which once held thousands of horses. It’s wild how grand and detailed the architecture is, especially considering it was built for animals. The medina here is also less chaotic than in other cities, so you can wander without getting overwhelmed.

Outside the old city walls, you’ll find peaceful gardens and modern cafes where locals hang out. Meknes is perfect if you want authentic Moroccan culture without the crowds, with plenty of moments that feel like you’ve discovered something most travelers miss.

2. Asilah

• 📍 Location: Atlantic Coast, northern Morocco
• 🏆 Best For: Art lovers 🎨, beachgoers 🏖️, peaceful explorers 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the medina’s mural-covered walls, relaxing at Paradise Beach, visiting the Asilah Arts Festival
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September for beach weather and the arts festival 🎭
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Riad Oasis D’Asilah – Colorful riad with rooftop views and artistic flair

Asilah is one of those places that feels like a secret coastal retreat. Its whitewashed walls and bright blue trim give it that postcard-perfect vibe, but what makes it pop is the street art. Every summer, artists from around the world transform the medina into an open-air gallery.

The pace here is slower compared to Morocco’s bigger cities. You can take your time wandering the fortified walls or grabbing mint tea at a local café while watching the ocean. Paradise Beach is just a short drive away and feels like your own private stretch of sand.

If you visit during the Asilah Arts Festival, you’ll find workshops, concerts, and fresh murals popping up daily. Whether you’re into art, history, or quiet sunsets by the sea, Asilah is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.

3. High Atlas

• 📍 Location: Central Morocco, stretching from the Atlantic to the Sahara
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature lovers 🌄, cultural adventurers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Mount Toubkal, staying in a Berber guesthouse, exploring Toubkal National Park
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for spring blooms and clear hiking trails 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Dar Imlil – Guesthouse with river views

The High Atlas Mountains are Morocco’s natural playground. Whether you’re a serious trekker or just looking to disconnect, this region delivers epic views and real cultural depth. Mount Toubkal is the star attraction, and reaching its summit gives you panoramic views over valleys, snow peaks, and desert edges.

Small Berber villages dot the hillsides, offering cozy guesthouses and mint tea around every corner. Staying overnight in one of these homes adds something personal to the trip, especially if you’re up for chatting with locals or trying a home-cooked tagine.

The landscapes are constantly shifting. One moment you’re walking through olive groves, the next you’re standing at the edge of a snowy pass. With cool air, quiet trails, and views that go on forever, the High Atlas gives you that feeling of being off the grid while still being incredibly welcoming.

• Read next: Must-Visit Places in the Atlas Mountains

4. Essaouira (Mogador)

• 📍 Location: Atlantic Coast, western Morocco
• 🏆 Best For: Music lovers 🎶, seafood fans 🐟, wind sports enthusiasts 🌬️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Skala de la Ville, browsing the medina’s artisan shops, attending the Gnaoua World Music Festival
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for breezy beach weather and festivals 🎷
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Salut Maroc! – Stylish boutique riad with ocean views inside the medina

Essaouira mixes relaxed coastal vibes with deep cultural roots. This walled port city is packed with charm, from its blue fishing boats to its maze-like medina that feels like a living art piece. You can spend hours browsing shops filled with woodcraft, rugs, and handmade jewelry, all without the crowds of bigger cities.

The old ramparts overlooking the crashing waves offer one of the best sunset spots in town. Nearby, seafood stalls grill up fresh catches right by the harbor, and beach cafés spill out onto the sand. The city’s wind also makes it a hotspot for kite and windsurfing.

What sets Essaouira apart is its artsy energy. Every summer, the Gnaoua World Music Festival brings the medina to life with hypnotic rhythms and street performances. Whether you’re exploring solo or with friends, this city leaves you feeling creatively recharged.

• Read next: Amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites

5. Chefchaouen

• 📍 Location: Rif Mountains, northern Morocco
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📷, slow travelers 🧳, dreamers 💭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the blue-washed medina, visiting the Kasbah Museum, hiking to the Spanish Mosque
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for cool mountain weather and blooming flowers 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Riad Hicham – Cozy riad with panoramic terrace near the medina

Chefchaouen looks like something out of a dream, with every shade of blue painting the streets, stairs, and doorways. Tucked in the Rif Mountains, it’s one of Morocco’s most photogenic towns and a peaceful contrast to the country’s bigger cities.

Walking through the medina feels like exploring a giant art project. Flowerpots line the alleys, and small shops sell woven blankets, ceramics, and leather goods. The town is compact enough to explore in a day, but lingering here is part of the charm. Grab a seat at a rooftop café and watch the sun dip behind the hills.

For a quick hike, head up to the Spanish Mosque for a view over the entire town. The vibe in Chefchaouen is slow, calming, and personal, making it a favorite for travelers looking to unplug and soak up something beautiful.

• Read next: Top Things to Do in Chefchaouen

6. Sahara Desert

• 📍 Location: Southeastern Morocco, near Merzouga and Zagora
• 🏆 Best For: Desert adventurers 🐪, stargazers 🌌, cultural explorers 🎶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding camels through Erg Chebbi, camping under the stars, listening to Berber drumming around a fire
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for cooler desert temperatures 🌙
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Riad Azawad – Desert-style stay with pool and terrace near Merzouga dunes

The Sahara Desert is one of Morocco’s most unforgettable landscapes. With its golden dunes, silent mornings, and nights lit by stars, it feels like stepping into another world. You’ll likely start your trip in Merzouga or Zagora, where most camel treks and desert tours begin.

As you ride out across the sand, the dunes shift in shape and color with every breeze. It’s quiet in a way that makes you pay attention to small things, like the crunch of sand, warmth of the sun, and rhythm of the caravan. At night, desert camps come alive with music, traditional food, and stories shared around a fire.

The clear skies make for incredible stargazing, and sunrise over the dunes is worth waking up early for. Whether you explore on foot, by camel, or 4×4, the Sahara offers a raw, powerful experience you’ll remember long after the trip ends.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Africa

7. Casablanca

• 📍 Location: Western Morocco, on the Atlantic coast
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture fans 🕌, modern city lovers 🏙️, oceanfront travelers 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Hassan II Mosque, strolling the Corniche, exploring Quartier Habous
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for pleasant coastal weather and fewer crowds 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Odyssee Boutique Hotel Casablanca – Chic design hotel near the city center

Casablanca blends Morocco’s past and future into one buzzing city. It’s home to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, where the marble floors, detailed tilework, and oceanfront location leave a serious impression. Non-Muslim visitors can even take guided tours, which is rare in Moroccan mosques.

The city also has a modern side, with stylish cafés, art galleries, and shopping centers. Walking the Corniche gives you that ocean breeze fix, with restaurants and lounges overlooking the Atlantic. For something more traditional, Quartier Habous offers old-school architecture mixed with artisan shops and French colonial vibes.

Casablanca isn’t as visually striking as Chefchaouen or Marrakech, but it feels real and lived-in. If you want a look at the business, style, and coastal rhythm of modern Morocco, this city gives you just that without losing its cultural core.

• Read next: Best Places to Visit in Casablanca

8. Ouarzazate

• 📍 Location: South-central Morocco, near the Sahara’s edge
• 🏆 Best For: Film lovers 🎬, desert explorers 🏜️, history buffs 🏯
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Atlas Film Studios, visiting Aït Benhaddou, exploring Taourirt Kasbah
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for clear skies and mild desert heat ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Le Temple des Arts – Art-filled boutique hotel inspired by world cinema

Ouarzazate is Morocco’s movie capital, where desert landscapes double as ancient worlds on the big screen. Films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were shot here, and you can tour real sets at Atlas Studios, the largest film studio on the continent. It’s a fun way to see how Hollywood and Moroccan history collide.

Nearby, Aït Benhaddou is one of the most impressive fortified villages around. The crumbling clay architecture and sweeping desert views make it feel frozen in time. Many travelers stop here for a few hours, but staying overnight lets you see the site in golden morning light before the crowds.

The town also has its own charm beyond the cameras. Local markets, kasbahs, and friendly cafés offer plenty of quiet corners to relax. Ouarzazate is a solid base if you’re heading deeper into the Sahara or just want a taste of the cinematic side of Morocco.

9. Marrakech

• 📍 Location: Central Morocco, near the foot of the Atlas Mountains
• 🏆 Best For: Culture seekers 🕌, foodies 🍲, city adventurers 🧳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa, wandering the Majorelle Garden, visiting the Bahia Palace
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for blooming gardens and cooler city weather 🌷
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Riad Kniza – Elegant historic riad in the heart of the old medina

Marrakech delivers nonstop energy from the moment you step into the medina. Jemaa el-Fnaa is the beating heart of the city, where street performers, market stalls, and the scent of sizzling food fill the air. It’s the kind of place where you could spend hours just people-watching or hunting for snacks.

Slip away from the crowd and you’ll find quiet corners like the Majorelle Garden, a peaceful space painted in bright blues and greens. The Bahia Palace is another highlight, with sunlit courtyards and detailed tilework that show off the city’s rich craftsmanship and history.

The city is also a shopper’s dream. Souks wind through the old town selling lanterns, spices, leather bags, and rugs. Rooftop cafés offer the perfect break between stops, giving you time to soak in the skyline and plan your next move. Marrakech is bold, beautiful, and full of surprises around every turn.

• Read next: Best Riads in Marrakech

10. Fez

• 📍 Location: Northern Morocco, nestled in the Saïss Valley
• 🏆 Best For: History fans 🏛️, architecture lovers 🧱, culture nerds 📚
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Fez el-Bali, visiting Al-Qarawiyyin University, watching leatherwork at the Chouara Tannery
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for ideal weather and smaller crowds 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Riad Fes – Opulent riad with panoramic medina views and classic Moroccan decor

Fez is Morocco’s spiritual and cultural time capsule. The Fez el-Bali medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest in the world. Its maze of narrow alleys, bustling souks, and hidden mosques feels like it hasn’t changed in centuries.

Unlike Marrakech, Fez keeps things raw and authentic. The Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in 859, still operates today and is considered the oldest existing university. Nearby, you’ll spot colorful dye pits at the Chouara Tannery, where leather is made using traditional methods passed down for generations.

Even with its deep roots in history, Fez feels alive. You’ll hear the call to prayer echoing off centuries-old walls and see artisans crafting pottery or intricate metalwork in the open. It’s the kind of city that rewards curiosity, offering something new every time you take a different turn.

• Read next: Top Things to Do in Fes

11. Merzouga

• 📍 Location: Eastern Morocco, on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes
• 🏆 Best For: Desert dreamers 🌅, sandboarders 🏂, culture seekers 🎶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Camel trekking over dunes, camping in the desert, sandboarding at sunrise
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March for cooler desert temperatures 🌙
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Riad Madu – Warm and rustic riad with desert views and guided excursions

Merzouga is where the Sahara becomes real. The Erg Chebbi dunes rise just outside town, forming a golden sea that stretches to the horizon. Camel treks take you into the heart of the dunes where the silence is almost surreal and the sky stretches endlessly above you.

Sunsets here are otherworldly. As the sky shifts from orange to deep purple, the sand seems to glow. At night, the desert camps light up with Berber music and storytelling around the fire. It’s the kind of experience that strips things down to the essentials and makes everything feel meaningful.

Adventure is easy to find. You can try sandboarding, ride quad bikes, or just hike barefoot up the tallest dune for panoramic views. Merzouga is peaceful but powerful, offering a different kind of escape that stays with you long after you leave.

12. Agadir

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Morocco, along the Atlantic coast
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, surfers 🏄, resort travelers 🧴
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on Agadir Beach, hiking to the Kasbah, browsing Souk El Had
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for sun, surf, and coastal breezes 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Timoulay – Relaxed hotel with spa, pool, and easy beach access

Agadir feels different from most Moroccan cities. It’s modern, laid-back, and all about the beach. The wide promenade lines a long stretch of sand where you’ll find joggers, sunset watchers, and surfers catching waves before breakfast. If you’re looking for a coastal escape, this is the place.

After a devastating earthquake in the 60s, Agadir was rebuilt with a new look. Today it’s filled with clean streets, fresh architecture, and resort-style comfort. Climb to the old Kasbah ruins for sweeping views of the bay and city or spend an afternoon haggling for spices and souvenirs at Souk El Had.

Agadir is also a great launchpad. You can day trip to Paradise Valley for natural pools or explore nearby surf towns like Taghazout. Whether you want to chill by the water or adventure inland, Agadir gives you both with a sunny, casual vibe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Morocco

Want to learn more about the best tourist destinations in Morocco? Common inquiries are addressed below. I hear a lot about the top places to visit and things to do in Morocco.

What are the top 5 tourist attractions in Morocco?

The top 5 tourist attractions in Morocco are the historic medina of Marrakech, the blue streets of Chefchaouen, the ancient ruins of Volubilis, the towering dunes of the Sahara Desert in Merzouga, and the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.

Where is the nicest place in Morocco?

One of the most universally acclaimed destinations in Morocco is Marrakech, often considered the country’s cultural and tourist capital.

Marrakech

• Why It’s Considered the Nicest: Marrakech is a vibrant city that offers a blend of traditional and modern Moroccan experiences. It’s known for its historic palaces, beautiful gardens, and bustling souks.
• What Makes It Special: The city is home to iconic landmarks like the Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace, and the Koutoubia Mosque. The Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites. The main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, comes alive in the evening with food stalls, musicians, and performers.

Marrakech serves as a gateway to the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, making it a great base for exploring natural beauty as well.

What are the three must see cities in Morocco?

Here are three must-see cities in Morocco that you should add to your bucket list:

• Marrakech: Known for its vibrant culture, historic palaces, and bustling markets, Marrakech offers a quintessential Moroccan experience. The city serves as a gateway to natural wonders like the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert.
• Fes: Often considered the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, Fes is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its ancient university. The city’s Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history.
• Chefchaouen: Renowned for its blue-painted streets and buildings, Chefchaouen is a picturesque town set against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains. It’s a popular destination for photography, shopping for unique crafts, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

Each of these cities offers a unique set of attractions and experiences, making them must-see destinations for anyone visiting Morocco.

What are 4 tourist attractions in Morocco?

Four notable attractions in Morocco include the Atlas Mountains, the seaside town of Essaouira, the cultural hub of Fez, and the modern cityscape of Rabat.

What are some of the must-see destinations in Morocco?

Morocco boasts a diverse range of attractions, from its bustling cities to serene landscapes. Some of the must-sees in Morocco include Marrakech, Fez, the Sahara Desert, and the coastal city of Essaouira. Each offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Is Morocco a good destination for history and culture enthusiasts?

Absolutely! With its ancient medinas, historic kasbahs, and rich traditions, Morocco is a treasure trove for history buffs. Cities like Fez and Marrakech are home to some of the most beautiful places in Morocco that showcase the country’s rich heritage.

How many days in Morocco is enough?

The number of days you should spend in Morocco depends on what you want to see and do. However, I recommend 10 to 14 days to get a well-rounded experience of the country’s diverse landscapes, cities, and cultural attractions. Here’s a breakdown based on the number of days:

7 Days

• What You Can Do: Visit two major cities like Marrakech and Fes, with possible day trips to nearby attractions like the Atlas Mountains or the Roman ruins at Volubilis.
• Limitations: Limited time to explore and you’ll likely miss out on the Sahara Desert or coastal cities.

10 Days

• What You Can Do: Add a visit to the Sahara Desert for a camel trek and a night under the stars. Or, explore additional cities like Chefchaouen or Essaouira.
• Limitations: Still a packed schedule, with limited time in each location.

14 Days

• What You Can Do: A more relaxed itinerary that allows for in-depth exploration of major cities, the Sahara Desert, and either the Atlantic coast or the Rif Mountains.
• Limitations: Even with two weeks, you’ll have to prioritize sights and attractions. Morocco offers a wide range of experiences from hiking in the Atlas Mountains to relaxing in coastal towns.

21 Days or More

• What You Can Do: An extended stay allows for a deep dive into Moroccan culture. This includes less-visited places like the Draa Valley, the Dades Gorges, or the surf town of Taghazout.
• Limitations: Requires a more flexible schedule and budget.

What is the best time to visit Morocco?

While Morocco is a year-round destination, the best time to visit depends on the region. Coastal cities like Agadir and Tangier are pleasant during the summer, while the desert regions are best explored in the cooler months.

Are there any unique experiences that Morocco offers?

Morocco offers a plethora of unique experiences. From camel treks in the Sahara to shopping in the vibrant souks of Marrakech, there’s something for everyone. For those keen on exploring Morocco’s beautiful places, a visit to the blue city of Chefchaouen or the cinematic landscapes of Ouarzazate is a must.

How safe is it for tourists visiting Morocco?

Morocco is generally safe for tourists. However, like any other destination, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It’s always a good idea to check travel advisories and local guidelines when visiting Morocco.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Morocco

Morocco, with its kaleidoscope of colors, cultures, and landscapes, is a destination that beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. From the bustling medinas echoing with centuries-old tales to the serene vastness of the Sahara, every facet of this nation tells a story of tradition, resilience, and beauty. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of adventure, seeking solace in nature, or immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of history and art, Morocco promises an experience that’s both transformative and unforgettable.

As you embark on your Moroccan journey, remember that the country’s true essence lies not just in its iconic landmarks but in the warmth of its people, the rhythm of its music, and the flavors of its cuisine. So, let the magic of Morocco envelop you, and may your travels be filled with memories that last a lifetime.