2. Fes – A Timeless Journey into the Past

Fes (or Fez) is Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart. This UNESCO-listed city is home to the world’s oldest functioning university and the largest intact medieval medina in the world. With its labyrinthine alleys, Fes feels like a living museum.

What to explore in Fes:

• The Al Quaraouiyine University (established in 859)

• The Chouara Tanneries — colorful, traditional leather-making pits

• The Bou Inania Madrasa and other exquisite Islamic schools

• The souks for traditional crafts, textiles, and ceramics

🗺️ Fes is a starting point for many of our customized desert tours — including the famous 3-day Fes to Merzouga tour.

3. Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl of Morocco

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a dreamlike city known for its blue-washed walls, quiet alleys, and mountain backdrop. Its calm and charm offer a serene contrast to Morocco’s larger cities.

Things to do in Chefchaouen:

• Wander through the blue Medina

• Hike to the Spanish Mosque for sunset views

• Shop for handmade wool garments and local crafts

• Taste goat cheese and tagine in a family-run restaurant

🧭 Ideal for a relaxing stop between Tangier and Fes or a photography lover’s dream.

4. Merzouga – The Gateway to the Sahara Desert

For many, a trip to Morocco isn’t complete without experiencing the Sahara Desert — and Merzouga is your entrance to the legendary Erg Chebbi dunes. This small village near the Algerian border is a highlight for adventurous travelers.

Unmissable experiences in Merzouga:

• Camel trekking through the dunes at sunrise or sunset

• Spending the night in a luxury desert camp under the stars

• Listening to Berber music around a fire

• Sandboarding, quad biking, and 4×4 excursions

🔥 Join one of our Merzouga desert tours at Trekking Atlas Mountains to enjoy a seamless and authentic desert adventure.

5. Casablanca – Morocco’s Economic Powerhouse

As Morocco’s largest city and economic center, Casablanca blends modernity with history. It’s often overlooked, but worth a visit for its stunning coastal architecture and famous mosque.

Top attractions in Casablanca:

• The Hassan II Mosque, built partially over the ocean

• The Corniche for seaside cafés and nightlife

• Art Deco buildings and French colonial architecture

• Morocco Mall – North Africa’s largest shopping center

🚆 Casablanca is also a major hub for international flights — making it a convenient start or end point for your Moroccan journey.

6. Rabat – Morocco’s Capital with Royal Vibes

Elegant and orderly, Rabat offers a calm and refined experience. As the capital of Morocco, it combines diplomatic importance with historical depth and Mediterranean charm.

What to see in Rabat:

• The Kasbah of the Udayas – with ocean views and Andalusian gardens

• The Royal Palace

• The Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V

• The modern Mohammed VI Museum of Contemporary Art

🏛️ Rabat is a great overnight stop if traveling between Casablanca and the north.

7. Essaouira – The Bohemian Coastal Escape

This charming coastal town on the Atlantic is a favorite among surfers, artists, and seafood lovers. Essaouira offers a relaxed, breezy vibe and a well-preserved Medina right by the sea.

What to do in Essaouira:

• Stroll along the Skala de la Ville ramparts

• Visit the bustling fishing port

• Try freshly grilled sardines or seafood tagine

• Surf, kitesurf, or windsurf in the Atlantic breeze

🌊 A perfect beach break after days of desert or city exploration.

8. Ouarzazate – The Gateway to the Desert

Often called the Hollywood of Morocco, Ouarzazate is a desert city known for its film studios, ancient kasbahs, and dramatic landscapes.

Top sights in Ouarzazate:

• The stunning Aït Ben Haddou – a UNESCO World Heritage ksar

• The Atlas Film Studios, used in Game of Thrones and Gladiator

• The Taourirt Kasbah

🎬 Often included in our Atlas & Sahara circuits from Marrakech. An excellent stop on the way to Merzouga.

9. Imlil – Morocco’s Trekking Capital

Tucked into the High Atlas Mountains, Imlil is a charming mountain village surrounded by walnut trees, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. It’s the launching point for treks to Mount Toubkal (4,167m), North Africa’s highest peak.

Why visit Imlil:

• Authentic Berber culture and homestays

• Trekking routes for all levels

• Breathtaking mountain landscapes

• Mule rides and local market visits

🥾 At Trekking Atlas Mountains, we offer guided treks and cultural hikes based in Imlil, perfect for those who want to connect with nature and local traditions.

10. Tangier – The Gateway Between Continents

Located at the northern tip of Morocco, Tangier is where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic — just a stone’s throw from Spain. With a cosmopolitan past, it remains a cultural crossroads full of intrigue.

Don’t miss in Tangier:

• The Hercules Caves and Cap Spartel

• The Tangier Kasbah and old Medina

• A ferry to Spain (or arrival point for travelers from Europe)

• Beach walks and scenic coastal views

⚓ Tangier makes a great starting point for northern tours that include Chefchaouen and Fes.

🎒 Start Planning Your Dream Trip to Morocco

These 10 cities represent the soul of Morocco — from its ancient imperial cities to the peaceful mountain trails and desert adventures. Whether you’re seeking cultural discovery, outdoor adventures, or luxury experiences, Morocco will surprise and inspire you.

🧭 Let us help you explore Morocco the right way.
Trekking Atlas Mountains is a locally based tour operator offering:

• Private and group tours

• Desert circuits

• Atlas Mountain trekking

• City-to-city transfers

• Cultural experiences with Berber hospitality

👉 Visit our website to discover our most popular itineraries or contact us for a custom-made tour designed just for you.