Unveiling the Charm: Top 11 Must-Visit Cities in Morocco for an Enchanting Experience

Are you dreaming of a vacation that will take you to a land of captivating beauty, immerse you in a vibrant culture, and offer adventure and luxury? If yes, then Morocco is the perfect destination for you.

Morocco is a country that offers something for everyone, from majestic mountains and endless deserts to charming coastal towns and historic cities. Whether you want to explore ancient medinas, enjoy exotic cuisine, or discover hidden gems, Morocco will enchant you with its allure.

But to experience the best of Morocco, you need a trusted partner to craft a custom private tour that suits your needs. That's where Gateway2Morocco comes in.

Based in Vancouver, Canada, Gateway2Morocco is the leading tour company specializing in tailor-made Morocco tours. We have been creating unforgettable experiences since 2004 and are passionate about sharing our love and knowledge of Morocco with you.

We offer a wide range of private tours, from cultural and historical tours to adventure and nature tours. You can choose from our existing itineraries or work with us to create your personalized Morocco tours. We also offer comfort travel options like luxury vehicles, private drivers, and desert camps.

With Gateway2Morocco, you can rest assured that your vacation will be memorable and extraordinary. We will handle every detail, from planning and booking to guiding and assisting. We will also provide expert tips and advice to help you make the most of your Morocco trip.

Here are some of the must-visit cities in Morocco that you should include in your itinerary:

CASABLANCA

Casablanca is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Morocco, serving as the economic and industrial hub of the country. It displays Morocco's modern and dynamic side, featuring skyscrapers, boulevards, and vibrant nightlife. The city blends French colonial and Moroccan Islamic influences, making it a hub of history and culture.

One of the most popular attractions in Casablanca is the Hassan II Mosque. The mosque is the second-largest in the world and the only one in Morocco that non-Muslims can visit. It's a masterpiece of architecture and engineering, with a 210-meter-high minaret featuring a laser beam pointing towards Mecca. The mosque has a retractable roof, a glass floor that reveals the Atlantic Ocean, and exquisite decorations and craftsmanship.

Morocco Mall is another attraction in Casablanca. It's the largest shopping mall in Africa and one of the largest in the world. The mall offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, such as an aquarium, an ice rink, and a cinema. The mall is home to the famous French department store, Galleries Lafayette, and the largest IMAX theatre in Africa.

Casablanca is also known for its connection to romance and cinema, thanks to the classic film Casablanca, set in the town during World War II. Rick's Café is a replica of the café from the movie where visitors can enjoy a drink and a meal in a nostalgic atmosphere. The Cinéma Rialto is a historic theatre that showcases Moroccan and international films.

RABAT

Rabat is the political and administrative capital of Morocco. The city perfectly blends modernity and tradition with a mix of colonial and Islamic architecture. Rabat is also a city of culture and history, with many museums, monuments, and festivals to explore.

One of the main attractions in Rabat is the Kasbah of the Udayas, which is a fortified citadel that dates back to the 12th century. The Kasbah overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River and offers stunning views and picturesque alleys. Inside the Kasbah, you can visit the Andalusian Gardens, the Museum of Oudayas, and the Mosque of the Kasbah.

Another attraction in Rabat is the Hassan Tower, a minaret intended to be part of the largest mosque in the world. Unfortunately, the mosque was never completed; only the tower and some columns remain. Next to the building, you can see the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a lavish monument that houses the tombs of the late king and his two sons.

Rabat is also a city of art and creativity, with many galleries, studios, and events to enjoy. You can visit the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the first of its kind in Morocco, or the Villa des Arts, a cultural center hosting exhibitions and concerts. You can also attend the Mawazine Festival, an annual music festival featuring local and international artists.

ASSILAH

Asilah is also a city of music and literature, where visitors can enjoy the rich and diverse cultural events throughout the year. You can attend the Arts Festival, an annual event showcasing the city's and region's artistic and creative talents. You can also participate in the Asilah Cultural Season, a yearly event that features concerts, lectures, exhibitions, and workshops by local and international artists and intellectuals.

TETOUAN

Tetouan: The White Dove

Tetouan, the Ivory Gem of Northern Morocco. Nestled on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and cradled by the Rif Mountains, Tetouan is a captivating city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and elegance. As you embark on your journey, let the White Dove enchant you with its UNESCO-listed medina, artistic festivals, and pristine beaches.

Here's a glimpse into what awaits you in Tetouan:

UNESCO-Listed Medina: A Cultural Treasure Step into the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Tetouan's medina, a sensory delight with its alleys perfumed by spices, avenues adorned with palm trees, and houses painted in a vibrant palette. The medina unfolds a tapestry of experiences, offering a myriad of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Artistic Heritage Unveiled: School of Traditional Arts and Crafts Tetouan takes pride in its artistic legacy, evident at the School of Traditional Arts and Crafts. Witness the mastery of local artisans as they practice ancient skills such as wood painting, embroidery, marquetry, and intricate zellij mosaics. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Tetouan's creative spirit, a testament to the city's commitment to preserving its cultural roots.

CHEFCHAOUN

Chefchaouen is a picturesque town located in the Rif Mountains of Morocco. It is known for its beautifully blue-washed buildings and streets, which Jewish and Muslim refugees from Spain painted in the 15th century to symbolize the sky and heaven.

The town is peaceful and tranquil, with friendly locals, stunning views, and a creative vibe. One of its main attractions is the Ras El Maa waterfall, which flows from the mountains into the town. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists who relax in the refreshing water and enjoy the surrounding greenery. The nearby Spanish Mosque also offers a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings.

The Medina, the city's old town, is another must-visit attraction in Chefchaouen. It's a maze of blue alleys and squares that hide many treasures and secrets. The Medina is home to various shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can find everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to local delicacies and spices. The Kasbah, a fortified citadel that houses a museum, a garden, and a tower, is also located in the Medina.

- Chefchaouen is also a town of art and creativity, where you can enjoy the colorful and unique murals that adorn the town's walls. The city hosts the Chefchaouen International Festival of Art and Culture, an annual event that celebrates the town's and region's artistic and cultural diversity. The festival features exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and performances by local and international artists.

FES

Fes: Home to the Oldest and Largest Medina in North Africa

Fes is the oldest and most authentic city in Morocco and the cultural and spiritual capital of the country. It is a city that transports you to another time, with its ancient medina, the largest and oldest in North Africa. The Medina of Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a maze of narrow streets, alleys, and squares where you can discover the hidden treasures and secrets of the city.

One of the main attractions in Fes is the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, the oldest existing and continually operating educational institution in the world. The mosque and university were founded in the 9th century by Fatima al-Fihri and have been a center of learning and scholarship for centuries. The mosque and university are open to Muslims only, but you can admire the exterior and the library, which houses thousands of rare manuscripts and books.

Another attraction in Fes is the Chouara Tannery, the largest and oldest tannery in the city. The tannery is where leather is processed and dyed using traditional methods and natural ingredients. The tannery is a colorful and aromatic sight, and you can watch the workers soak, scrape, and dye the leather in the large vats. You can also buy leather products from the nearby shops and stalls.

Fes is also a city of art and culture where you can enjoy Morocco's rich and diverse heritage. You can visit the Dar Batha Museum, a former palace that houses a collection of Moroccan arts and crafts, such as ceramics, woodwork, textiles, and carpets. You can also attend the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, an annual event that celebrates different religions and cultures' spiritual and musical traditions.

TINGHIR

Tinghir: The Most Beautiful Oases in Southern Morocco

Tinghir is a charming city between the High Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert in the south of Morocco. It is the center of the Todra Valley, a fertile oasis dotted with palm trees, flower gardens, and kasbahs. Tinghir is known for its rustic streets, exotic views, and friendly people, making it a city of nature and culture.

One of the main attractions in Tinghir is the Glaoui Palace, which the powerful Glaoui family built in the 18th century. The palace is perched on a hill overlooking the city and the valley, offering a stunning panorama. The palace is also a museum that displays the history and art of the Glaoui dynasty, including weapons, costumes, and paintings.

Another attraction in Tinghir is the Todgha Gorge, a spectacular canyon that the Todgha River carves. The gorge is one of Morocco's most famous natural attractions, attracting many hikers, climbers, and photographers. The gorge's walls reach up to 300 meters high, and there is a narrow passage that is only 10 meters wide at some points. The valley also has a natural spring, a waterfall, and a bridge.

Tinghir is also a city of adventure and shopping, where visitors can enjoy the thrill and excitement of desert activities. They can take a camel ride through the palm groves and dunes and witness the sunrise or sunset over the desert. They can also go souvenir shopping at the crafts market, where they can find local products such as carpets, pottery, jewelry, and spices.

OUARZAZATE

Ouarzazate: Door of the Desert

Ouarzazate is a striking desert city in the south of Morocco, recognized for its use as a backdrop in numerous Hollywood films and TV shows. This city is situated at the edge of the Sahara Desert and provides a peek into the desert life and culture. Ouarzazate is a city of adventure and discovery, with its cinematic attractions, ancient settlements, and desert activities.

One of the main attractions in Ouarzazate is the Atlas Film Studios, the world's largest film studio, where movies like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Kingdom of Heaven were shot. The studio is open to the public, and visitors can explore the sets and props of various films and learn about the history and process of film-making in Morocco.

Another attraction in Ouarzazate is the Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village that dates back to the 11th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is made of mud and straw and consists of several kasbahs, or traditional houses, stacked on each other. The village is also a popular filming location and has been featured in movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, The Living Daylights, and Game of Thrones.

Ouarzazate is also a city of desert adventure, where visitors can experience the thrill and excitement of desert activities. You can take a 4x4 or a camel ride through the dunes and witness the stunning sunrise or sunset over the desert. You can also spend a night in a luxury desert camp and experience the starry sky and the silence of the desert.

MARRAKECH

Marrakech: Chief City of Central Morocco

Marrakech is the most famous and frequently visited city in Morocco, and for good reason. The town charms the senses with its vibrant colors, sounds, and aromas. Marrakech is also a city of contrasts, where the old and the new coexist harmoniously.

The heart of Marrakech is the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the city's liveliest and most popular spot. Here, you can witness the spectacle of magicians, storytellers, snake charmers, acrobats, and musicians. You can also sample the delicious street food and shop for souvenirs. The souks surround the square, and the traditional markets offer everything from spices and carpets to leather and pottery.

Another attraction in Marrakech is the Koutoubia Mosque, the city's largest and most iconic mosque. The mosque is famous for its 77-meter-high minaret, a landmark and a reference point for travelers. The mosque also symbolizes the Almohad dynasty, which ruled Morocco in the 12th and 13th centuries.

Marrakech is also a city of gardens and palaces where you can admire the beauty and elegance of Moroccan architecture and design. You can visit the Majorelle Garden, a botanical garden created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. You can also visit the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace that showcases the finest Moroccan craftsmanship and artistry.

ESSAOUIRA

Essaouira: Wind City of Africa

Essaouira is a beautiful and charming city located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, known for its strong winds and bohemian vibe. The Portuguese founded the town in the 16th century and later became a French protectorate in the 19th century. Essaouira is a city of history and culture, with its fortified Medina, artistic festivals, and pretty beaches.

One of the main attractions in Essaouira is the Medina, the city's old town, surrounded by a 16th-century rampart built by the Portuguese. The Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a delight to explore, with its spice-scented lanes, palm-lined avenues, and colorful houses. The Medina also has many shops, cafes, and restaurants where visitors can find everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to seafood and pastries.

Another attraction in Essaouira is Essaouira Beach, a long, sandy beach along the city's coast. The beach is famous for locals and tourists who enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. The beach is also great for water sports such as surfing, kite surfing, and windsurfing, thanks to the strong winds that blow from the Atlantic Ocean.

Essaouira is also a city of music and literature, where visitors can enjoy the rich and diverse cultural events throughout the year. They can attend the Gnaoua World Music Festival, an annual event that celebrates the music and culture of the Gnaoua people, a group of African descendants who practice a form of spiritual music and dance. They can also attend the Essaouira Mogador Festival, an annual event that features concerts, lectures, exhibitions, and workshops by local and international artists and intellectuals.

AGADIR

Agadir is a modern and cosmopolitan city on Morocco's Atlantic coast. It is famous for its sunny climate and sandy beaches. Although the town was almost destroyed by an earthquake in 1960, it was rebuilt with a new and elegant style. Agadir is now a city of leisure and entertainment, with its beautiful beach-front boulevards, tourist attractions, and nightlife.

One of the main attractions in Agadir is the Agadir Museum, also known as the Berber Museum. The museum showcases the history and culture of the Berber people, the indigenous inhabitants of Morocco. The museum displays a collection of artifacts, such as jewelry, pottery, textiles, and musical instruments, as well as photographs and videos of the Berber lifestyle and traditions.

Another attraction in Agadir is the Souss-Massa National Park, a natural reserve that covers an area of 33,800 hectares and is home to various flora and fauna. The park is home to many endangered species, such as the bald ibis, the Dorcas gazelle, and the Barbary macaque. The park also offers scenic views of the river, the dunes, and the cliffs.

Agadir is also known for its beach and water sports. The city offers a range of facilities and activities on Agadir Beach, a 10-kilometer-long stretch of golden sand. Visitors can enjoy sunbeds, parasols, cafes, and camel rides. Water sports such as kite surfing, jet skiing, or sailing are also popular on the Atlantic waves.

To reach Agadir, visitors can take a flight to Agadir-Al Massira Airport, which is 20 km southeast of the city. The airport has direct flights coming from major cities in Europe, as well as many charter flights arriving from all over Europe. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus or a train from other major cities in Morocco, such as Casablanca, Marrakech, or Tangier.

Agadir Birds Valley is the most popular attraction in the city. It is a bird park that houses over 500 birds of 60 species, such as flamingos, parrots, peacocks, and ostriches. The park also features a waterfall, a pond, and a cactus garden.