Travelling in Morocco
Travelling in Morocco: 6 of the Most Beautiful Places
List of 6 most beautiful places
Rabat – the calm capital
The trip began in Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Compared to other cities, Rabat feels more peaceful, yet it still has plenty to see and do. We stayed close to the centre and from there we could easily explore the main sights on foot.
The Kasbah des Oudaias is a charming old fortress with white and blue houses, narrow streets, and a stunning view over the ocean. The Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret from the 12th century, is another impressive landmark that tells part of Morocco’s long history. Right next to it is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a bright white marble monument honouring one of Morocco’s most respected kings. Just outside the centre lies Chellah, the ruins of an old Roman city. Walking among the remains and gardens gives you a real sense of how many layers of history this country holds.
Casablanca – modern and striking
From Rabat, it took about one and a half hours to reach Casablanca. This city feels very different from the rest of Morocco. It is modern and business-like, yet still has a number of unique places worth seeing.
The most famous is without doubt the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, built partly on the sea. Even non-Muslims are allowed to visit the inside, which makes it a must-do. The Corniche, a lively boulevard along the Atlantic coast, is perfect for a walk, with cafés and ocean views. For film lovers, Rick’s Café is styled after the classic movie “Casablanca” and is a fun spot for dinner or drinks. To get a taste of local life, head to the Marché Central, a busy market where you can try fresh fish, spices, and other Moroccan specialities.
Marrakech – the beating heart of Morocco
About three and a half hours’ drive from Rabat lies Marrakech, a city you simply cannot skip. Marrakech is alive with colour, scents, and sounds at every corner.
The central square, Djemaa el Fna, comes to life especially at night, filled with storytellers, snake charmers, and countless food stalls. The atmosphere is magical. The Bahia Palace is another highlight, with beautiful gardens and colourful mosaics that show the fine details of Moroccan architecture. The Saadian Tombs, dating back to the 16th century, are both impressive and moving, while the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakech, is easy to spot thanks to its tall minaret.
The Sahara Desert – adventure in Merzouga
Do you want to experience something truly unforgettable? Then head to Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Here we joined a camel trek at sunset, rode across the golden dunes, and even found ourselves in the middle of a sandstorm. It was an experience we will never forget!
What can you do in Merzouga?
- Take a camel trek: Climb onto a camel and let yourself be carried across the rolling dunes while the sun slowly sets.
- Spend the night in a Berber tent: Experience true desert life by staying overnight in a traditional Berber tent under the starry sky.
- Go dune bashing in a 4×4: For adrenaline seekers, there’s the option to race through the sand dunes in a 4×4. With sharp turns and steep dunes, it’s a wild ride full of action and fun.
- Enjoy the night sky: Because Merzouga is so remote, the sky at night is crystal clear. It’s the perfect place to stargaze and maybe even spot the Milky Way. For many travellers, this becomes one of their most magical memories of Merzouga.
Fes – the cultural heart of Morocco
Fes is one of the oldest cities in Morocco and home to one of the largest and best-preserved medieval medinas in the world. Walking through its narrow lanes feels like stepping back in time. We explored the leather tanneries, which are fascinating to see from above – the best views are from the balconies of local shops.
Another highlight was the Bou Inania Madrasa, a centuries-old Quranic school. The detailed wood carvings, colourful mosaics, and elegant calligraphy are stunning examples of Islamic architecture. Fes is a city full of history, craftsmanship, and tradition, making it a must-see for culture lovers.
Chefchaouen – the blue pearl
Hidden in the Rif Mountains lies Chefchaouen, one of Morocco’s most photogenic towns. With its blue-painted houses and streets, the whole place feels almost magical. It takes around four hours to drive here from Marrakech, but it is well worth the effort, especially if you want a few days to relax and take photos.
One of the best spots to watch the sunset is from the Spanish Mosque, a short walk uphill from the centre. The view over the blue town as the sun goes down is unforgettable. But the real charm of Chefchaouen is simply getting lost in its medina. Wander without a plan, and you will find endless photo opportunities: blue doorways, winding staircases, pots of flowers, curious cats, and welcoming locals. It is an Instagram dream, but also a peaceful place to enjoy at your own pace.
Our take away from travelling in Morocco
Discover more of Morocco
Do you want to know more about what it’s like to drive to Morocco yourself and travel around with a (self-built) campervan? Then check out our other blog, where we share practical tips, route advice, and the things you really need to know before you go.