You finally made up your mind and decided you are going to Morocco! You begin to imagine the smells of spices, the colors of woven rugs, and the mysteries of the winding medinas. Morocco has become more accessible than ever and boasts an increasing tourism rate of approximately 6% each year. Depending on the duration of your stay, you may have opted to go with a tour company (this can be a very good choice in terms of getting a genuine experience with ease of mobility) or perhaps you decided to take on the landscape relying on your own navigational skills. Whatever your plan, the scheduling of daily activities can be daunting once you realize how many options you have – and that includes what to wear!
I chose Morocco as the destination of my first solo-trip adventure in 2017. My journey was 12 days long and I am proud to say that I travelled a great distance of miles from start to finish. Prior to my departure I did extensive research to ensure I was fairly occupied on a daily basis – of course, this also meant mapping out transportation, various hotels, and a lot just “hoping for the best”. That is to say, not every part of my trip went “smoothly” – while I remember my excursion fondly, there were a few nights that were challenging and certainly outside of my comfort zone (“First World Problems”). It is bound to happen anytime you decide to leave your own country; all in all it is part of the fun of travel. Always do keep in mind that not everything will go according to plan and that is ok.
So let’s jump right in: do it all or pick and choose, either way I hope this list gives you an idea of what is possible in two weeks time. And, just to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the fun – I included the “not so great” legs of the trip here as well, including links and hotel names where applicable.
Overview
Day 1 – 4: Casablanca
Day 5: Casablanca – Rabat – Moulay Idris
Day 6: Moulay Idris – Volubilis – Fes
Day 7: Fes
Day 8: Fes – Chefchaouen
Day 9: Chefchaouen
Day 10: Chefchaouen – Tangier – Marrakech
Day 11 – 12: Marrakech
This post contains affiliate links. That being said, I do not receive commission in connection with any of the below recommendations.
Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca (CMN)
In order to avoid the troubles of finding a cab at the airport, I booked a semi-private transfer from CMN airport to my hotel – Gray Boutique Hotel and Spa. The service was also used by about six other people, and we were dropped off based on distance “shuttle style”. The service cost approximately USD 35; given the distance of my hotel, the duration was approximately 2 hours from pick up to drop off.
Recommended Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca
Day 2: Casablanca
Visit the Hassan II Mosque – the Hassan II Mosque is the largest mosque in Africa, and the second largest mosque in the world with a minaret standing at 689 feet in height. It is truly a sight impossible to miss both for its historical significance, the grandeur of its size and intricacy of its design. Fortunately for us, this mosque is one of the two only mosques in Morocco to open its doors to the public with guided tours. Near the entrance of the mosque you will find business hours and prices (approximately USD 20). Note, modesty is both respectful and expected (as well as reinforced) at all mosque sites – most evidently for women, covered arms and legs are requested. Although a hijab is not asked of westerners, a light scarf over the head concealing the majority of hair is appropriate. This tour is approximately 45 minutes long and covers topics touching on history, architecture, customs and a view of the lower level hammams.
Adjacent to the mosque and in connection, is a large plaza overlooking the ocean with views of the city, a library, an art gallery, a mosque museum, and several standing pillars. Following the tour, take some time to roam the property and visit the other landmarks. On my trip, I arrived rather late resulting in most of these locations being closed by the end of the tour – I recommend you arrive early so that you may explore prior to or after your tour. Depending on the time of day, you can wander the immediate area and discover the Bourgogne quartier (respectfully visit the El Hank Cemetery), the Sour Jdid area (check out the Marina Shopping Center or Rick’s Cafe – see Day 4), or straight into the Ancienne Medina.
Finally, for dinner enjoy traditional tagine, pastilla, and even belly dancing at Basmane restaurant. Although my sentiment is that it is catered to tourists, the meal and entertainment did not disappoint.
Day 3: Casablanca
Today, explore a different side of Moroccan art – the Villa des Arts has set up multi-room viewing areas within the architecture of a villa in the center of the city to display the works of modern artists. The collections are varied, ranging from paintings to sculptures to photographs. Admission is gratis, and although it might be more sparsely visited than any of the other sites you may hit, it is worth exploring and enjoying the grounds afterwards.
Following Villa des Arts, use either a taxi cab or walk to the Morocco Mall near the shoreline (approximately 5 miles). The Morocco Mall is the largest shopping mall in Africa, and is home to several luxury stores, cinemas, dining options, a supermarket, and a floor to ceiling aquarium right at the entrance among other things. Tours of the mall are available by outside vendors (not sponsored by the mall) to get a better sense of the magnitude, history, and architectural impact.
Luckily, the Morocco Mall is on the shores of several Casablanca beaches (e.g. Plage Madame Choual and Plage Ain Diab) along the Boulevard de L’Ocean Atlantique. The Plage Ain Diab is right at the entrance of the mall and might be the best bet – take a walk on the shore or ride a horse or a camel if you wish; horses and camels are often on the beach available to ride for a few dirhams. If you are inclined to get a full body dip in the ocean, there are several surfing schools located on the beach staffed with young, hip instructors. I will advise that although a public beach, the dress remains modest – most women maintained their coverage, so I leave this open to your judgement/read the room.
Don’t want to get your feet sandy? Check out the Parc Sindibad just across from the beach for amusement park fun and the Sindibad Zoo.
Last but not least, enjoy dinner and dancing at the Petit Rocher for international cuisine and some of the largest oysters I have ever had!
Day 4: Casablanca
Brunch at Rick’s Cafe and check out the Ancienne Medina. For the truly uninhibited, I leave you the option to check-into the Transatlantique Hotel (not recommended – at your discretion!)
If you recognize Rick’s Cafe it may be due to your love of cinema classics; this is a recreation of the very place where smooth talking Humphrey Bogart dazzled in his white tuxedo coat. Come in and enjoy a quiet brunch in the lightly colored dining hall overlooking instruments and ornate lamps while you sip on Moroccan tea or leave your visit for the evening when Rick’s Cafe hosts several musical acts ranging from latin beats to jazz.
In reality, this day was the first “not so great” day in Morocco as a result of my move into the Transatlantique Hotel (USD 35 per night). After checking a few sources (which listed the hotel as a four star establishment), I opted to give another hotel a try thinking it would be an interesting to move into a hotel elsewhere in the city. Given the price, I should not have been as alarmed as I was, but with the currency conversion it was hard to judge. The hotel is dated and located in a very desolate area of the city surrounded by weeping balconies of old english infrastructure. The rooms provided the basics with no embellishments and questionable cleanliness. On the upside, it feels like a part of history with its two people max 1922 Otis elevator, hanging keys behind the reception desk, and rococo lounge area decor. Surprisingly there is also a bustling nightclub near reception that is heavily frequented by locals (I did not see any Westerners on quick inspection). At the end of the first floor is an open area exposed to the sky and surrounded by plush pillows resting on small colored tiles. I leave this for the adventurous and those willing to be uncomfortable for a night or two.
Ignoring this detour in comfort, today is a good day to checkout the Ancienne Medina following brunch especially if Day 2 or Day 3 was overwhelming with activity. You will not have to look far as the cafe is situated on the cusp of the medina.
Day 5: Casablanca – Rabat – Moulay Idris
Depart from the Gare Casablanca Voyageurs train station via the ONCF Railway Company into Gare Rabat Ville located in the Quartier des Orangers. You will find Rabat is a walking-friendly city – from the station, consider walking over to the Mausoleum of Mohammed V followed by the Hassan Tower located adjacent. The Hassan Tower is a pretty spectacular work of architecture that was never finished. The tower sits among rounded pillars which seem like soldiers protecting the unfulfilled minaret. Within the same land enjoy the shade of the Jardin Tour Hassan; have yourself a refreshing fruit drink sold by street vendors near the entrance or a small packet of sweet dates. Continuing the walk down Avenue al Marsa you will be close to the water where you are likely to find colorful fishing boats on the marina – this same road will direct you to the Kasbah of the Udayas (and nearby beach), Porte Des Oudayas landmark, the Museum of Oudayas open to the public, and the Andalusian Gardens which essentially sit at the entrance to the Rabat Medina.
Once you have had time to explore, take advantage of the daylight to board your next train from Gare Rabat Ville to the Gare el Amir Abdelkader station in Meknes. From here, use a taxi (petits or grands) toward the town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun. Moulay Idriss sits over two hills near Mount Zerhoun; historically, it is the site of the tomb of Idriss I (Moulay Idriss el Akbar), a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and first ruler of Islam in Morocco. At sunset, prepare for the beautiful clashing calls to prayer as they hum over the town from opposing directions of the Mount Zerhoun.
Moulay Idriss is not clad in hotels, so you will most likely be staying in either a hostel or guest house. I recommend La Colombe Blanche (approximately USD 30 – best option is to email or call for reservations). It is a humble establishment managed by a nuclear family; the rooms are clean with phenomenal views, the meals are home cooked, and the feeling is very warm. If you are lucky, your hosts will even teach you how to make traditional couscous step by step!
Additional Recommendation: Dar Zerhoune guesthouse (website available for bookings).
Day 6: Moulay Idriss – Volubilis – Fes
Spend the morning in Moulay Idriss winding up and down the slim alleyways (understanding that most of the town is navigated via short stairways). I recommend speaking to your guest house host, as they may be able to connect you with a local guide who can best show you the secrets of the city – it might be tough to find the Haroune Aqueduct without a little help!
Depart Moulay Idriss back to the Gare el Amir Abdelkader station with destination to the Gare de Meknes – taxi or walk to the Cite Imperiale and discover the Bassin Souani, Heri es-Souani, and Royal Stables. Head north to Lahdim Square at the entrance to the medina – from here you will have the option to explore the Marche Couvert (covered market filled with towers of olives and delectables), several surrounding landmarks such as the Bab Mansour Laleuj, Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, Bab Berdieyinne, etc. or enter the medina where you can find the Madrasa Bou Inania (paid entrance fee). Different from other medinas, the Meknes medina might feel slightly more open and accessible than others you will encounter.
Recommended: From Lahdim Square take a taxi to Volubilis (Conservation du site Archéologique de Volubilis) – old Roman ruins with well conserved mosaics and aqueducts. There are guides employed at the site to escort small groups through the ruins – they are are informed, charismatic, and generously open to questions.
Return to Meknes and via the Gare Al Amir Abdul Kader head en route to Gare de Fes.
In Fes, I dined at Restaurant Palais La Medina. Decor, service, food, and entertainment were a joy! That being said, it appears to be primarily catered to tourists. For those who prefer a less targeted establishment, consider Restaurant Ouliya, Riad Andalib, Restaurant Dar Tajine Fes or Dar Roumana among many.
Day 7: Fes
Begin your day in full admiration of the city of Fes from the Southern Tower. Making your way down into the actual city, check out the Palais Royal Dar El Makhzen to admire impressive gold work, followed by the Blue Gate within the medina district. Once inside the medina, look for the Palais Quaraouiyine rug store, Al Attarine Madrasa, and get lost in the area finding hidden restaurants and artisans.
Recommended: Lunch at La Maison Bleue and dinner at Nur.
Via Rue Chouara visit the Chouara Tannery and learn how leathers are treated, dyed, cut, and dried. It is rich in pungent aromas so you will be handed a few mint leaves on arrival to help cover the scent. Finally, if you are in the market for authentic Fes ceramics, the Mosaique Et Poterie De Fes in Quartier Ain Noqbi is worth a visit.
Day 8: Fes – Chefchaouen
Depart from Fes and drive to Chefchaouen (Dar Zman Guest House). Note – I personally had an unfavorable experience at this guest house due to some unwelcome pests. Chefchaouen, similar to Moulay Idirss is not littered with hotels. That said, there are more options which do not include hostel accomodation.
Recommended: Lina Ryad & Spa or the Riad Cherifa Hôtel for more comfort with limited concerns.
Explore the town, including the Bab El Mahrouk and Kasbah tower. Do not skip the Ras El Ma for both the view and to experience local rug washing in the river. If you are lucky, you might even find local women dressed in traditional garments of beads and wrapped towels around the waist.
Chefchaouen is known for its vibrant blue color – if you have the time and prefer a guided experience, be sure to ask your hotel or guest house host for a local guide recommendation to better experience its secrets.
Day 9: Chefchaouen
Eat a little! We are going on a hike through the Chefchaouen Ras Elma national park past the Mosque Bouzaafer. As mentioned above, this may be best enjoyed with a guide (or a group of travellers) given the remoteness and lack of marked paths.
For dinner, you will notice that the plaza by the grand mosque is full of tiny coffee shops (you cannot miss it). If you do eat in that area, beware of the cats as they often jump up on the tables (or into your lap) to eat from your plate or knock plates to the ground. You may find a quieter meal at the hotels suggested above and/or the guest houses.
Day 10 (Longest Day): Chefchaouen – Tangier – Marrakech
From Chefchaouen take a three hour bus ride to Tangier. Either through car rental or taxi, take a scenic drive by the Mirage Hill Club and stop by the Phare Cap Spartel (lighthouse) for a rest stop with view of the ocean and cliff side. On your way to the Caves of Hercules (Grottoes of Hercules) you will drive along the shoreline – if you did not get a chance in Casablanca, perhaps you can spot some camels for a quick picture here. Be sure to always have some coin dirhams to pay for the restroom and be ready to negotiate as the prices are subjective.
Moving your way inland through the Grand Socco markets, you will be close to the Tomb of Ibn Batouta, Kasbah Museum, and the Muraille de Tanger (the Wall of Tangier) just steps within the Ancienne Medina. At night walk down the Avenue Mohammed VI along the Marina Bay Plage Municipal (Corniche Gardens and Fontaine Lumineuse) and stop for some classic Moroccan tea or ice cream at Cafe Glacier Colors.
Depending on your travel arrangements, head toward the Gare Tanger Ville station and board the night sleeper train via Moroccan Railways (ONCF) to Marrakech. This is a 9hr train ride overnight so departure at midnight or close to midnight is preferred. A one hour flight is also available for consideration.
Day 11: Marrakech
Arrive around midday to your hotel (Hotel Les Trois Palmiers); Marrakech has plenty of options in terms of hotelling arrangements and restaurants; should you consider the Hotel Les Trois Palmiers, I found it clean, centrally located, and sufficient.
Take a bike tour of the city (unfortunately, I do not recall the name of the service I used, but highly recommend the experience!). If on foot, visit the Jardin Majorelle botanical gardens (adjacent to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum and the European Cemetery), minaret Mhamid Marrakech and Koutoubia mosque. In Marrakech, above all, the medina is a must. In the medina, get completely lost and overwhelmed (in the best way possible) at the Jama El F’na Market, visit the Musée de Marrakech for historical background, try to find Le Jardin Secret close to the Ben Youssef Mosque, and relax at the Heritage Spa or the Hammam Mouassine!
For lunch check out SHTATTO, and for dinner look no further than Nomad.
If you are still in the mood for a lively last night in Morocco after a full day of exploring, check out Bombay. It might seem like a relaxed Indian restaurant in an unassuming part of Marrakech, but don’t discount the possibility of bartenders on tables and dancing deep into the night. Morocco is not a party city, but it is certainly full of surprises!
Day 12: Marrakech – Home
Depart from the Marrakech Menara Airport.
Please feel free to comment with any questions you may have on Morocco, getting around, and the planning process overall!
Not sure what to pack on your trip? Check out my What to wear in Morocco article for some help.
Helpful Information
Moroccan National Tourist Website (ONMT)
U.S. Department of State – Morocco Travel Information
Police: 190 or 112
Gendarmerie Royale: 177 (law enforcement in small towns or rural areas)
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