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Holidays in Morocco
Morocco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Africa, which is no surprise as a country with such striking natural diversity is also home to many cultural attractions.
In this charming country of centuries-old traditions, you'll find unforgettable experiences for all tastes: visits to fascinating cities rich in history and fine architecture, national parks, and excellent beaches along the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts with beautiful places to relax. For the outdoor enthusiast, the magnificent Atlas Mountains, separating the Mediterranean coast from the Sahara Desert, stretching for almost 2,500 km. It is also home to the highest peak (4167 m) in the Atlas Mountains, Morocco, and North Africa. Experienced local operators offer unforgettable trips to the most attractive part of the country, the famous Sahara Desert.
The best time to travel to Morocco
Most of Morocco has a Mediterranean climate, with dry, hot summers and mild but humid winters. The hottest month is July and the wettest is usually November, so the best time to visit Morocco is in the autumn months, September and November, and the spring months, March and April. During these months the weather is warm and pleasant, with no extreme fluctuations in temperature.
The most popular towns of Morocco
Rabat
Rabat is the modern capital of Morocco. Founded in the 12th century on the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Wadi Bou Regreg, today it covers an area of 1,275 square kilometres. It is one of the country's four imperial cities, with an eastern flavour but quite modern. There are several attractions not to be missed: Medina (old Muslim town), Mellah (formerly a Jewish quarter, with an attractive market for antique enthusiasts), Kasbah des Oudayas (home to the Andalusian Gardens, the Jewelry Museum and the oldest mosque in Rabat, Jama al Atiq). The Hassan Tower (the 44-metre tall symbol of Rabat) is an impressive sight, as is the Mohammed V Mausoleum (one of the most beautiful sacred buildings in Morocco). The royal palace, which still serves as the king's main residence, cannot be visited, but its facade, made from the finest materials including cedar, bronze and Carrara marble, and decorated with mosaics, can be viewed, as can watching the changing of the guard every two hours.
The town's magnificent 2-km promenade, adorned with palm-lined avenues, offers excellent shops and restaurants, as well as a modern marina and sandy beaches with opportunities for water sports (kayaking, windsurfing, water-skiing).
Casablanca
Casablanca is one of the largest cities in Morocco, with unique Art Deco and classic Moorish architecture, the beautiful La Corniche promenade, excellent cafés and restaurants, fresh seafood, beaches and a host of cultural activities
Hassan II Mosque is a symbol of the city and its most famous landmark. Thousands of the country's traditional craftsmen were involved in the creation of this iconic building, which took several years to complete and was completed in 1993. The main hall of the Mosque and the surrounding plazas can accommodate over 100,000 worshippers for prayers. This Mosque is the only mosque in the country where non-Muslims can enter. There are also free informative guided tours.
Marrakesh
Marrakesh is another imperial city located in the western part of the country. This ancient city is the best place to explore Morocco. It offers a whole range of crafts, from carpets to all kinds of spices.
The centre of Marrakesh is the large square at the entrance to the Medina, the historic heart of every city in Morocco. The Medina of Marrakesh was founded in the 11th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By day, the narrow streets of the Medina attract visitors with the beauty of Moroccan culture and plenty of shopping opportunities. By nightfall, the square in front of the Medina becomes a lively leisure centre with acrobats, musicians and snake charmers. You can take a break from the hustle and bustle and watch the action unfold in one of the many cafés around the square.
The Koutoubia Mosque and its 70-metre-high minaret are considered a symbol of Marrakesh. The Jardin Marjorelle (botanical garden and museum), palaces Badi (16th century) and Bahia (19th century) with their unusual architecture and maze of corridors, rooms and courtyards are also recommended to visit.
You can also visit the popular tanneries to see how leather tanners work and even photograph them, with prior permission.
Local public hammams should be noted, offering an introduction to wellness experiences in terms of Moroccan hammam culture. Clients are offered a procedure of steaming, washing, exfoliation and subsequent massage.
Fes
Fes, the centre of Moroccan culture, crafts and commerce, is one of the country's largest cities and the oldest of the four imperial cities of Morocco. Its ancient Medina (Fes el Bali) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to the winding architecture of the streets, courtyards and bazaars, it is easy to get lost here.
Fes el Bali is home to the Karaouiyn Mosque (9th century) and the famous Islamic University. In the new Fes (Fes el-Jdid) are located the Royal Palace and the Great Mosque. The city's main industry is tourism, as well as traditional crafts (pottery, leatherwork) and trade.
Meknes
Meknes is one of the four imperial cities of the country, the former capital of Morocco (17th-18th centuries) and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1996).
It is notable for its numerous mosques. City of a Hundred Minarets) and its variety of architectural styles. The Medina of Meknes dates from the 10th century and is surrounded by walls about 40 km long with nine gates covered in mosaics.
The town is less crowded than Fes or Marrakesh. Places to visit: Place el-Hedim, Dar Jamai Museum, Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and Volubilis (a Roman archaeological site near Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997). Here you can view surviving parts of buildings, the triumphal arch, the basilica, columns, ancient thermal baths, as well as beautiful mosaics.