Discover the allure of northern Morocco with a luxurious round trip that takes you through bustling marketplaces, finely-appointed riads, and the captivating Imperial Cities. This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors to Morocco or those looking to combine their time here with another destination. Immerse yourself in the rich history as you visit ancient ruins, medieval relics, and contemporary hot spots, creating an unforgettable journey through time.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Casablanca & Transfer to Chefchaouen via Rabat | Chefchaouen |
| Day 2 | Chefchaouen to Fes - Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes | Fes |
| Day 3 | Fes - Exploring the Imperial City, Medieval Medina & Hammam | Fes |
| Day 4 | Fes to Casablanca: Rabat and Salé | Casablanca |
| Day 5 | Depart from Casablanca |
Embark on your Moroccan adventure with an exciting start today. Upon your arrival at Casablanca airport, your personal driver will be ready to whisk you away to Chefchaouen, famously known as the Blue City.
On your way, make a captivating stop in Rabat, the country’s capital and residence of the royal family. Explore the remarkable Hassan Tower monument, the towering minaret of a 12th-century mosque that was left unfinished. Standing at 145 feet (44 m), the red sandstone tower and approximately 200 columns offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the intended architectural complex. After admiring the ruins, visit the exquisite Mausoleum of Mohamed V, adorned with intricate tilework, mosaics, and masterful craftsmanship that showcases the artistry found throughout Morocco.
For lunch, you’ll have the freedom to choose from various recommended options, indulging in the tantalizing flavors of Morocco’s cuisine, with fresh seafood grilled to perfection and complemented by bold traditional spices.
In the afternoon, venture into the enchanting Rif Mountains, arriving at your final destination: Chefchaouen. This picturesque city is a visual marvel, with its walls, doors, windows, stairways, alleys, and archways all adorned in delightful shades of blue, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant hues.
Upon checking in at your riad, take your time to explore the town at your leisure or simply unwind and relax. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Outa el-Hammam, the main square, and observe the vibrant life unfolding around you. Wander through the narrow alleys to discover the everyday charm of the town. Chefchaouen offers fantastic and affordable shopping opportunities, featuring handcrafted wool garments, woven blankets, cedarwood furniture, and various artisanal creations. Don’t miss the chance to savor a cup of Maqlouba (upside-down) coffee while observing local women fetching water and washing laundry at the nearby spring.
For dinner, you have the freedom to choose from the town’s diverse culinary offerings, indulging in the flavors that captivate your senses.
Begin your day in Chefchaouen, savoring the morning at your own pace. Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise from the Spanish mosque, offering panoramic views of the town. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before immersing yourself in the vibrant medina. For a tranquil experience, relax with a cup of fresh mint tea at Place Outa el-Hammam, observing the city’s awakening from a charming café.
Later in the morning, embark on a captivating journey through Morocco’s regal history. Heading south towards Fes, your first stop is Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting the country’s remarkably preserved Roman ruins. Explore the vast complex, marvel at the grand merchant homes with their visible heating systems, visit temples, and admire the well-preserved mosaics. For a deeper understanding of the site’s history, you have the option to hire a private guide. With the flexibility of your private driver, you can spend as much time as you desire at the ruins, as well as any other sites you encounter along your trip.
Next, venture to Moulay Idriss, a town that resembles a seated camel when viewed from a distance. Founded in 789 CE, it served as Morocco’s first Islamic capital and remains culturally significant to this day. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the unique round minaret, the only one of its kind in the country. Your driver will assist you in finding an excellent lunch option, or if you secure reservations in advance, indulge in a private dining experience at an exclusive restaurant in the city.
Continuing your journey, arrive in the prosperous city of Meknes, featuring a smaller medina and friendly shopkeepers, in contrast to larger cities. Your driver will guide you through the Ville Impériale (New City) area, where you can explore gardens, palaces, the impressive Bab al-Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables. Keep an eye out for hidden Roman columns in some of the palaces, as they were constructed using materials from Volubilis.
Conclude your royal road trip in Fes, one of Morocco’s esteemed Imperial Cities. Upon checking in at your luxurious riad in the historic medina, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. The unforgettable medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of winding alleys that ascend both sides of a steep river valley, making it the largest car-free urban area globally.
As you explore the medina, pay attention to the incline of the alleys, as walking uphill generally leads you to the periphery of the medina, where it becomes easier to orient yourself and find transportation options.
After a delightful breakfast, rendezvous with your private tour guide, a knowledgeable local from Fes, and embark on an immersive exploration of the UNESCO-protected medina. Prepare to be enthralled as your guide unveils hidden stories and leads you to the lesser-known corners of this bustling hub. Witness the intricacies of daily life and marvel at the grandeur of madrasas (Islamic schools) and palaces. As your appetite builds, seek recommendations from your guide for a memorable lunch experience, as Fes is home to numerous luxurious restaurants tucked behind unassuming doorways.
Today, delve into the rich traditions and crafts of the city. Visit tanneries, where you can observe the traditional techniques still employed by artisans, as well as mosaic workshops, where skilled craftspeople demonstrate their expertise. Connect with the artisans and gain insights into their craft, deepening your appreciation for their remarkable skills.
In the afternoon, embrace relaxation as the guiding principle. Return to your riad and take some time to unwind before indulging in a visit to a local hammam, a traditional public bath. Immerse yourself in a pampering session of rejuvenation. Hammams typically offer an array of services, including massages, baths, and a comprehensive treatment menu featuring locally sourced argan oil products. Begin with the traditional trifecta of steam, soak, and scrub, ensuring a blissful hammam experience.
Today marks your journey from Fes to Casablanca, with the opportunity to revisit Rabat and explore the charming suburb of Salé.
As Morocco’s political capital, Rabat boasts a vibrant culinary scene. While you can find excellent Moroccan cuisine throughout the city, venture to the embassy quarter of the new city, located just inland from the medina, for some of the finest French and Italian dining experiences in the country.
In the afternoon, proceed to the neighboring city of Salé, where you can immerse yourself in its rich history. Explore the historic madrasa, showcasing striking architecture and intricate Moroccan craftsmanship. Don’t miss the chance to visit the impressive walls and gates of Bab Antare and Bab Mellah, which serve as remarkable landmarks dividing the city.
In the early evening, arrive in Casablanca, where you will have the night to discover the city at your own pace. Delight in the freedom to explore its vibrant streets, indulge in culinary delights, and savor the unique atmosphere that Casablanca offers.
As your Moroccan adventure draws to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to this captivating country. Depending on the timing of your departure flight, you may have the opportunity to squeeze in some final sightseeing in Casablanca or indulge in a soothing cup of tea at one of the traditional cafés, immersing yourself in the local ambiance. When the time comes, your journey will lead you to Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, where you will embark on your onward flight, carrying cherished memories of your time in Morocco.
