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Rabat’s small size makes it easy to explore in a day, whether you visit on a day trip from Casablanca or Fez or while passing through as part of a tour of Morocco’s imperial cities. One day is just enough time to explore the old medina, visit the Hassan Tower, and browse the souks. Here’s how. 

Morning: Monuments and Museums

Rabat’s most memorable landmarks can be covered on a half-day city tour, and visiting with a guide means you can learn more about the Moroccan capital. Start by taking in the views from the cliff-top Kasbah of the Udayas, home to the Museum of Oudayas and the French-style Andalusian Gardens. Continue to Hassan Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn how the lone standing minaret was built as part of Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour’s never-finished mosque. Other attractions worth visiting: the royal Mausoleum of Mohammed V; opulent Royal Palace of Rabat; and Chellah, home to ancient Roman ruins and a medieval citadel.

Afternoon: Explore the Medina

The old Medina is Rabat’s most atmospheric district, and it’s best explored on a walking tour. Enter through the grand Bab El Had gate, stop to admire the Grand Mosque and Moulay Slimane Mosque, and spend some time in the souks. Quieter and less touristy than the famous souks of Marrakech or Fez, Rabat’s souks still offer options, with dozens of stalls selling carpets, leather goods, spices, and handicrafts—put your haggling skills to the test to secure a bargain. In late afternoon, take a stroll along the seafront promenade. It’s a picturesque spot to watch the sunset, with views over Rabat Lighthouse.

Night: Discover Moroccan Cuisine

You can’t visit Rabat without sampling some traditional Moroccan cuisine, and the rooftop restaurant of Dar Naji is one of the most renowned spots in the city—book a table in advance. A fun alternative is to take part in a Moroccan cooking class and learn to make typical dishes such as tagine and couscous, before tucking into a homemade dinner. For those who want to party, Rabat has a number of nightclubs, most located in Ville Nouvelle. Be aware though, that many places in Rabat do not serve alcohol—hotel bars are the best place for a drink.

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city but with three days, there’s time to cover the highlights and explore further afield. To maximize time, opt for tours that combine multiple sights or day trips that visit two cities in one day. Here’s how to spend three days in Casablanca.

Day 1: Sightseeing in the City

Start the day with a walking tour of Casablanca’s main food market, the Marché Central, for an introduction to local life in Morocco. Food lovers can combine a market tour with a seafood lunch or sign up for a cooking class that reveals the secrets of traditional Moroccan cuisine.

A half-day sightseeing tour offers a stress-free way to explore dispersed central neighborhoods such as the Habous quarter, with its Royal Palace and French colonial architecture, and the Old Medina. Keep your camera handy as you wander United Nations Place and Mohammed V Square before taking a peek inside the Sacre Coeur Cathedral.

In the evening, a visit to Rick’s Café—a replica of the café in the Casablanca movie—is a must but for the best views, indulge in a cocktail at Sky 28, the city’s highest bar.

Day 2: See More of Morocco

Three of Morocco’s imperial cities—Fez, Marrakech and Rabat—are reachable on a day trip from Casablanca and options for visiting are plentiful.

You can head to nearby Rabat and spend the day exploring the Moroccan capital, where attractions include the Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum. Or, a little further afield, Fez is famous for its UNESCO-listed medina, and a walking tour of its colorful souks—in particular the much-photographed tanneries—is a must for day-trippers. Alternatively, a visit to Marrakech offers the chance to shop in Morocco’s most renowned souks, sample Moroccan cuisine at Jemaa el-Fna square, and take a camel ride in the desert.

For the best value, look for a tour that includes hotel pickup and lunch, or choose a private tour to enjoy the flexibility of a personalized itinerary.

Day 3: Explore the Corniche

The Ain Diab Corniche road runs parallel to the Atlantic coast and boasts numerous lookout points. Full-day tours allow you to soak up the scenery without having to worry about navigating and keeping your eyes on the road. A staple sight on these tours is the Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca’s most photographed landmark and one of the largest mosques in the world. The view from the outside is stunning but to visit the interiors, a tour guide is essential.

Continue along the Corniche to the sandy beaches of Lalla Meryem and Ain Diab. Right next door is the gigantic Morocco Mall (Africa’s largest mall) which has a huge selection of shops, restaurants, and cafés, as well as a cinema, ice rink, and aquarium.

You can’t visit Morocco without paying a visit to the cultural capital of Marrakech, a city of contrasts that is as bewildering as it is enchanting. Here’s what you need to know about visiting the city from Casablanca, located less than 2.5 hours by road to the north.

Day Trips

With only a day to spend in the city, start off with a visit to the UNESCO-listed medina. It’s the heart of historic Marrakech and is centered on the bustling Djeena El Fna square. This is the central hub of the city, where you can lose yourself in the labyrinth-like souks, tuck into steaming tagine at a rooftop restaurant, and be entertained by a constant stream of snake charmers, fortune tellers, and street musicians. Spend the afternoon checking off the sights with a tour of the opulent Bahia Palace, a visit to the 16th-century Ben Youssef Medersa, and a stroll around the colorful Jardin Majorelle (Majorelle Garden), owned by designer Yves Saint Laurent.

Multi-Day Tours

There’s a lot to see in Marrakech and its surroundings, and those who can spare the time will be rewarded with a deeper, more leisurely exploration of the city. Multiday tours, lasting up to 15 days, often take travelers further afield to other notable destinations like Rabat, Tangier, Fez, Chefchaouen, the Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara desert where you can sleep overnight in a Bedouin camp.

Things to Know

• Choose between the value of a small-group tour and the flexibility of a private tour.

• A Marrakech day tour from Casablanca can last upward of nine hours, while multi-day Morocco tours last anywhere from eight to 15 days.

• Most day trips include hotel pickup and drop-off in Casablanca, as well as entrance fees to attractions on the itinerary.

• Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and some small bills for bargaining in the souks of the medina. 

Agadir is ideally situated for exploring Southern Morocco, and three days leaves enough time to see the city sights, enjoy the beaches, and venture farther afield. Here’s how to spend three days in Agadir. 

Day 1: City Sights to Sunset Rides

A city tour is the ideal way to find your bearings and get to know Agadir, whether you join a group tour or explore with a private guide. Start by admiring the views from the hilltop kasbah, a 16th-century fortress just northwest of the city. Then explore the old medina and stroll the atmospheric Talbourjt quarter, stop at landmarks including the Royal Palace and the Mohammed V Mosque, or learn about Berber culture at the Museum of Amazigh Culture. In the afternoon, tuck into Moroccan street food and shop for handicrafts at the Souk El Had d’Agadir, or perhaps visit a local argan-oil factory to learn about the oil Morocco is famous for. End the day with a camel ride through the dunes and watch the sunset along the banks of the Souss River, before enjoying a delicious barbecue dinner in the countryside. 

Day 2: Moroccan Culture and Beachside Fun

Learn more about Morocco’s culinary traditions this morning with a cooking class. Visit the local market to shop for ingredients, prepare typical dishes such as tagine with a local chef, then sit down to enjoy a home-cooked lunch. Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing at Agadir’s beaches—the southern resort is sunny all year round. Adventurous travelers can book a fun activity such as Jet Skiing, ATV riding, or sandboarding, or set sail on a boat cruise and stop to swim or fish along the way. In the evening, attend a performance showcasing Berber cultural traditions, with live music, belly dancers, snake charmers, and fire-eaters; dinner is included.  

Day 3: Take a Day Trip

Agadir is a good jumping-off point for Southern Morocco, so devote your third day to a day trip. Nature lovers can choose between Paradise Valley to the north—a stunning valley where you can walk amid wildflowers, visit artisan farms, and swim in natural pools—and Souss Massa National Park to the south, where you can spot wildlife on the steppe or explore the beaches and dunes in a 4WD. For beach lovers, the coastal resort of Essaouira and the surf hot spot of Taghazout are both within day-trip distance. You could even head to Marrakech and spend a day discovering the royal palaces and historic souks.

Even though its Morocco’s largest city, one day in Casablanca is still enough time to tick off the highlights. To maximize your time, choose a tour that takes you to several historic neighborhoods or opt for a private tour to devise your own itinerary. Here’s how to spend one day in Casablanca. 

Morning: Markets and Monuments

Casablanca’s central landmarks are dazzling yet dispersed; a tour lets you cover more ground without navigating public transport. Tours typically cover French colonial architecture in the Habous quarter, the Royal Palace of Casablanca, Mohammed V Mosque, and the walled Old Medina. 

Pass by United Nations Place and Mohammed V Square and make a photo stop at the grand Sacre Coeur Cathedral. Time your arrival at Marché Central—Casablanca’s main food market—for lunch. For greater insight into Moroccan cuisine, food lovers can book a guided market and tasting tour, combined with either a seafood lunch or cooking class.

Afternoon: Explore the Corniche

Casablanca’s star attraction is undoubtedly the Hassan II Mosque, located on a cliff that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Tours of the interior must be booked in advance, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment—many Casablanca sightseeing tours include a tour of the mosque, which saves the hassle of booking independently.

Afterwards, tours tend to continue along the Ain Diab Corniche, the scenic boulevard that runs along the seafront, and stop to visit the shrine of Sidi Abderrahman. Further south, the Lalla Meryem and Ain Diab beaches offer sandy shores, where you can relax, sunbathe, and cool off with a swim. Opt for private tour if you want to explore further or enjoy extra time at the beaches. 

Night: Beachside bars

Stick around to watch sunset from the coast, then head to one of the many beachside bars or restaurants for dinner or drinks. Travelers looking to party can find some of Casablanca’s biggest nightclubs along the waterfront, where you can drink and dance into the early hours.

Alternatively, head back to the city for a cocktail at the elegant Sky 28 bar. Located on the top floor of the Twin Centre tower, it affords panoramic views of the illuminated city.

Two days in Casablanca gives you plenty of time to explore Morocco’s largest city. To make the most your time, choose tours that visit multiple sights in one day and offer an insight into Moroccan culture and cuisine. See below for some ideas.

Day 1: Markets and Monuments

Morning: A walking tour of the Marché Central—Casablanca’s lively food market—is a great way to experience local life; visiting with a guide means you learn more about regional ingredients. For the full experience, combine your tour with a seafood lunch at a market restaurant, or join a cooking class to create your own dishes under the guidance of a chef.

Afternoon: Explore Casablanca’s central neighborhoods on a half-day sightseeing tour. See the Royal Palace of Casablanca and admire the French colonial architecture of the Habous quarter. Tours tend also to tick off the walled Old Medina, the Sacre Coeur Cathedral and the main plazas of United Nations Place and Mohammed V Square.

Night: Casablanca is at its most atmospheric after sunset; the best city views are from the Sky 28 bar in the Twin Center tower. After a cocktail, head to Rick’s Café for dinner. A replica of the café in cult movie Casablanca, it’s an Instagram favorite, and offs tasty tagines and live entertainment that includes belly dancing.

Day 2: Sun, sand and shopping

Morning: The seafront Hassan II Mosque is among the largest in the world and is a magnificent example of Islamic architecture. Exploring the interiors is only possible with a guide, so it’s best to visit as part of a tour. Due to its icon status, the mosque is a staple of almost all Casablanca sightseeing tours.

Afternoon: Soak up the scenery along the Ain Diab Corniche, a coastal road that runs south from the mosque along Casablanca’s beaches. Jump out to visit the seafront shrine of Sidi Abderrahman and then stroll along the sandy Ain Diab beach and cool off with a swim in the Atlantic.

Night: Spend the evening at the Morocco Mall, the largest of its kind in Africa, is located right next to the beach. Open until late, it has dozens of shops, restaurants, and cafés, as well as a multiplex cinema, a luxury souk, a musical fountain, an aquarium, and even an ice rink.

With rambling medieval alleyways, the ambient scent of spice and leather, and the constant din of vendors and donkey hooves hitting the cobbles, Fez is a multisensory place to visit. For travelers searching for a fix of atmospheric, old-world Morocco, here’s what you need to know about Fez tours from Casablanca.

Highlights

• Browse the Fez Medina (Fez el-Bali) and shop in souks where artisans from carpenters to coppersmiths create traditional handcrafted goods.

• Tour the New Town (Fez el-Jdid) and the Fez Mellah (Jewish Quarter), a walled quarter where Fez’s Jewish community once lived. 

• Visit top landmarks and attractions including the Royal Palace of Fez (Dar el Makhzen), Bou Jeloud Gardens (Jardin Jnan Sbil), and more.

• Inhale the pungent smells of animal skin and dye, and observe leather-workers at the Chouara tannery.

• Admire exquisite Islamic architecture at the Al-Attarine Madrasa and Kairaouine Mosque.

• Opt for a multi-day excursion from Casablanca and visit both Fez and Chefchaouen, a mountain town known for its photogenic blue buildings. 

Things to Know

• Fez is about 183 miles (295 kilometers) from Casablanca. Driving from Casablanca takes about 3 hours 20 minutes. 

• Day tours from Fez to Casablanca typically last between 11 and 14 hours.

• Wear comfortable, cushioned shoes—you’ll spend a lot of time exploring the cobbled and car-free Fez-el-Bali on foot.

• Most tours feature free time for lunch or an optional upgrade of lunch at a local restaurant. 

Whether you’re there on a day trip from Marrakech or enjoying a stopover along Morocco’s south coast, one day in Essaouira is just enough time to take in the highlights. Explore the UNESCO-listed medina, browse the souks, and take a camel ride along the beach. Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in this port city.

Morning: The medina

A walking tour is the ideal way to discover Essaouira’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the historic city. Start with a visit to the old citadel, the Scala du Port—climb up to the ramparts for sweeping views of the coast. Continue into the medina, where the mazelike streets, palm-shaded plazas, and blue and white painted buildings make for impressive photos. Then, stop by the lively Moulay el Hassan square to enjoy a glass of Moroccan mint tea or a seafood lunch.

Afternoon: From the souks to the port

Essaouira’s souks stretch from the center of the medina all the way up to the northern gate of Bab Doukkala. Part of the charm is getting lost in the labyrinthine lanes, so give yourself plenty of time to wander around the tiny shops, markets, and workshops. This is the place to pick up traditional souvenirs, such as colorful handicrafts, exotic spices, and Moroccan argan oil. For a more personalized experience, shop with a private guide who can help you haggle for the best prices. 

In the late afternoon, head over to the port to watch as the fishing boats return to shore with the day’s haul—it’s a memorable sight, so don’t forget your camera. 

Night: Sunset sightseeing

A camel ride is a quintessential experience for visitors to Morocco. Set out on a scenic sunset ride along beaches, forest trails, and dunes, savoring the views along the coast. 

Afterward, return to Essaouira Beach for a drink at one of the beachfront bars. Or, attend a performance of traditional Gnaoua music and dance. Essaouira is an important center of the art form, and hosts the annual Gnaoua World Music Festival.

Two days in Agadir gives you time to take in the sights, relax at the beach, and sample local culture and cuisine. Book tours in advance to save time, fill your trip with fun activities, and splash out on one or two unforgettable experiences. Here are some ideas for how to spend two days in Agadir.

Day 1: Sights, Souks, and Sunsets

**Morning:**A city tour takes the hassle out of navigating and means you can fit all of Agadir’s sights into a morning. Visit the hilltop kasbah for an impressive view along the Atlantic coast, stop to see landmarks such as the Royal Palace and the Mohammed V Mosque, and stroll the atmospheric Talbourjt quarter with its historic buildings and traditional cafés. 

**Afternoon:**The lively marketplace of Souk El Had d’Agadir is the place to purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs, as well as sample some of Morocco’s delicious street food. Shoppers can also combine a market tour with a visit to an argan-oil factory, to learn how Morocco’s famous argan oil is produced.

**Night:**A sunset camel ride is the perfect way to end the day. Mount up for a scenic trek along the banks of the Souss River, watch the sunset as you climb through the sand dunes, and look out for flamingos along the riverbank. For the full experience, combine your camel ride with a delicious barbecue dinner at a country ranch.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

**Morning:**Start the day with a romantic hot-air-balloon ride along the coast, watch the sunrise over the Atlas Mountains and Atlantic Ocean, then touch down to enjoy breakfast in a traditional Berber tent. Alternatively, set sail on a morning boat cruise and tuck into breakfast onboard as you glide along the beachfront. 

**Afternoon:**Most travelers come to Agadir for the beaches, so plan to spend the rest of the day soaking up the sun and swimming in the warm Atlantic waters. Adventurous travelers can enjoy a host of fun activities, from Jet Skiing excursions to quad-bike tours (book in advance to avoid disappointment), but if you prefer to relax and unwind, combine a beach break with a visit to a traditional Moroccan hammam. 

**Night:**Celebrate your final evening in Agadir by attending an evening show spotlighting traditional Berber culture. Feast on Moroccan tagine and sip mint tea as you enjoy live music, dancing, and performances by fire-eaters, belly dancers, and snake charmers.

With just one day in Southern Morocco’s flagship beach resort, you’ll have time to enjoy the beach, but if you plan your itinerary wisely you can also visit a hilltop kasbah, go souvenir shopping in the souk, witness the production of Morocco’s famous argan oil, and take a sunset camel ride in the dunes. Here’s how.

Morning: Explore the City Sights

Many of Agadir’s central sights can be reached on foot, but visiting with a guide offers insight into Morocco’s fascinating history and cultural heritage, and private transport will ensure you don’t waste time in transit. Start with a visit to the 16th-century kasbah, perched on a hilltop just outside of town, for an impressive view along the Atlantic coast. Back in the city, stroll the historic medina and the atmospheric Talbourjt quarter, admire landmarks including the Royal Palace and the Mohammed V Mosque, or perhaps visit one of Agadir’s argan-oil factories—like many Moroccan towns, Agadir is renowned for its production of the oil. 

Afternoon: Sun, Sea, and Souks

A visit to the Souk El Had d’Agadir market is a must for first-time visitors, and exploring with a local guide will help you navigate the language barrier and haggle for the best prices. Arrive in time for lunch and tuck into some traditional Moroccan street food, then browse the stalls for unique souvenirs and handicrafts. Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying Agadir’s sandy beaches, where you can cool off with a swim or take a stroll along the scenic seafront promenade. Adventurous types can take part in a myriad of fun activities such as Jet Skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, or off-road buggy excursions. Be sure to book ahead, especially in the summer months, to avoid disappointment. 

Night: Arabian Nights

Enjoy a Moroccan desert adventure without having to journey all the way to the Sahara desert with an evening camel ride in Agadir. The sand dunes and eucalyptus forests along the banks of the Souss River provide a magnificent backdrop, and you can watch the sunset as you ride a camel through the Agadir Hinterlands. For the full experience, book a tour that includes a barbecue dinner and sample tasty local cuisine as well as traditional Moroccan mint tea.  

Three days in Essaouira give you time to experience the laid-back pace of life for which the city is known. Lose yourself in the souks, kitesurf on Morocco’s windiest beach, and discover local culture and cuisine. Here’s how to spend 72 hours in Essaouira.

Day 1: Souks, seafood, and sightseeing

The best way to get around Essaouira is on foot, and a walking tour offers insight into the city’s fascinating history and pop culture connections. Visit the old citadel at Scala du Port, then walk along the ramparts for a sweeping view of the coast. 

Continue into the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with blue and white painted buildings. Stop by some art galleries, and shop for traditional handicrafts in the mazelike souks. 

In the early evening, make your way to the port to watch as the colorful fishing boats return to shore with the day’s catch and crowds gather to purchase fresh seafood. Sample it for yourself at one of the restaurants around Moulay el Hassan square.

Day 2: Sun, sea, and kitesurfing

Blessed with strong sea winds, Essaouira is considered one of Morocco’s best spots for surfing and kitesurfing. So, book a morning surfing or kitesurfing class—you’ll find options to suit all levels. 

In the afternoon, head out on an all-terrain vehicle excursion, horseback ride, or camel ride. Essaouira’s beaches, sand dunes, and coastal forests provide the perfect backdrop—some tours even include a picnic.

After an action-packed day, relax with a cold beer at one of the beachside bars, and watch the sun set over the ocean. 

Day 3: Cultural immersion

Day-trip destinations from Essaouria include Marrakech and the beach resort of Agadir, and there are ample hiking opportunities in the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, use your final day to experience local life and immerse yourself in Moroccan culture.

Start with a visit to an argan oil collective and learn how Morocco’s world-famous oil is produced. Take a walk through the argan forests, see the workshops, and enjoy mint tea with members of the cooperative. Don’t forget to pick up some oil as a souvenir.

In the afternoon, join a cooking class and discover the secrets behind Moroccan dishes such as tagine and couscous. Shop for ingredients at the local market while learning about typical herbs and spices, then prepare a delicious dinner to share with your hosts.  

Two days in Essaouira are enough time to venture beyond the highlights and experience the port city’s bohemian spirit. Walk the ramparts and explore the souks, relax at the beach, and sample local culture and cuisine. Here’s how to spend 48 hours in Essaouira.

Day 1: Sights and souks

**Morning:**Get your bearings on a walking tour of Essaouira. Visit the ruins of the old citadel, and climb up to the ramparts for a sweeping view of the coast. Afterward, wander around the UNESCO-listed medina for a myriad of photo ops: admire the blue and white painted buildings, stop by the Museum of Essaouira, and people watch on Moulay el Hassan square.

**Afternoon:**Lose yourself in the labyrinth of souks that run throughout the medina. The tiny shops, market stalls, and workshops are a great place to pick up souvenirs—traditional handicrafts, exotic spices, and Moroccan argan oil are all popular choices. For a more personalized experience, shop with a private guide who can help you haggle for the best prices.  

**Night:**In the early evening, make your way to the port as the local fishermen return to shore in their colorful boats with the day’s catch. It’s a lively scene—don’t forget your camera. 

Day 2: Cuisine and camel rides

**Morning:**Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture and join a cooking class. Visit the local market to shop for ingredients and learn about typical herbs and spices, then try out traditional techniques and prepare dishes such as tagine and couscous. Finally, sit down with your hosts to share a delicious homemade lunch.

**Afternoon:**Riding a camel through the desert is a quintessential Moroccan experience, but Essaouira’s beaches and dunes provide a scenic alternative. After your ride, go to Essaouira Beach and watch the surfers, stroll the windswept shores, or take a kitesurfing lesson.

**Night:**Spend your final evening in Essaouira enjoying the town’s nightlife. Grab a beer at one of the beachfront bars, then head into the medina to one of the many live music venues. As the host of the annual Gnaoua World Music Festival, Essaouira is one of the best places in Morocco to attend a performance of traditional Gnaoua music and dance—book your tickets in advance.