Prepare yourself for an indulgent journey spanning an entire week as we embark on a remarkable exploration of Morocco’s renowned Imperial Cities. Experience the epitome of luxury as your personal chauffeur guides you through the enchanting cities of Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech, unveiling breathtaking destinations throughout your voyage. Immerse yourself in the richness of culture and history as you indulge in a meticulously designed spa retreat at a traditional hammam, followed by expert-led tours of UNESCO Heritage Sites. After days filled with immersive experiences, find serenity and relaxation in opulent riads and lavish five-star hotels, ensuring a truly unforgettable getaway.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Afternoon Arrival in Casablanca & Hassan II Mosque | Casablanca |
| Day 2 | Casablanca to Fes - Hassan Tower & Volubilis | Fes |
| Day 3 | Fes - Exploring the Imperial City, Medieval Medina & Hammam | Fes |
| Day 4 | Fes to Marrakech - Back Through The Imperial Cities | Marrakech |
| Day 5 | Marrakech - Medina & City Tour | Marrakech |
| Day 6 | Marrakech to Casablanca - Atlantic Coast & Portuguese Ports | Casablanca |
| Day 7 | Depart from Casablanca |
Upon your afternoon arrival in Casablanca, your personal driver will be awaiting you at the airport, marking the commencement of your exciting journey. The first destination on your itinerary is the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, renowned for its towering minaret, the tallest in the world. Not only does this architectural marvel epitomize Moroccan grandeur, but it also offers a unique opportunity to explore its interior, as it is the only mosque in the country open to public tours. Immerse yourself in the sprawling beauty of this landmark, capable of accommodating up to 105,000 worshippers.
Following this captivating experience, you will check-in at your luxurious hotel, where you can unwind and recharge. Throughout your trip, you will relish in a variety of opulent accommodations that reflect the diverse architectural and cultural heritage of the regions you’ll visit. In cosmopolitan Casablanca, you will spend the night in a five-star hotel, while in the imperial cities of Fes and Marrakech, you will transport yourself back in time, residing in traditional riads adorned with exquisite tilework and featuring refreshing central courtyards.
As evening sets in, you have the option to savor a delightful meal either at your hotel or venture into the city to explore the vibrant dining scene. Your driver can provide recommendations for trendy establishments or authentic restaurants that showcase the culinary delights of Morocco’s economic capital.
After a satisfying breakfast, prepare for an enchanting journey from Casablanca to the imperial city of Fes, with captivating stops along the way. Before departing, take the opportunity to indulge in some shopping and don’t miss the chance to visit the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
En route to Fes, make a brief stop in Rabat, Morocco’s political capital, to admire the intriguing Hassan Tower. This minaret, part of a 12th-century mosque left unfinished, stands as a testament to architectural curiosity. Explore the remains of the red sandstone tower, standing proudly at 145 feet (44 m), surrounded by approximately 200 columns that once belonged to a grand complex. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Mausoleum of Mohamed V, showcasing intricate tilework, mesmerizing mosaics, and exquisite craftsmanship.
Savor an early lunch in Rabat, a city known for its vibrant culinary scene. While you can find excellent Moroccan cuisine throughout the city, consider venturing into the embassy quarter of the new city for an exceptional taste of French and Italian delicacies, among the finest in the country.
Continuing southward, arrive at Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that proudly displays Morocco’s best-preserved Roman ruins. Take a leisurely stroll through this expansive complex, marveling at the grand merchant houses with their visible heating systems, ancient temples, and beautifully preserved mosaics. If desired, your driver can assist you in hiring a local guide to enhance your exploration. Alternatively, if you prefer to continue your journey, take advantage of the flexibility provided by your private driver.
Next, visit Moulay Idriss, a city resembling a sitting camel when viewed from a distance. Founded in 789 CE as Morocco’s first Islamic capital, Moulay Idriss holds ongoing cultural significance. Be sure to admire the unique round minaret, the only one of its kind in the country.
Before reaching Fes, make a stop in the prosperous city of Meknes, known for its smaller medina and friendly shopkeepers compared to larger cities. Accompanied by your driver, traverse the Ville Impériale (New City) area, where you can explore magnificent 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, as many of the palaces were constructed using materials from Volubilis.
Conclude your royal road trip today in Fes, one of Morocco’s prestigious Imperial Cities. Upon arrival, settle into your luxurious riad within the historic medina. The remainder of the day is yours to immerse yourself in the unforgettable UNESCO World Heritage Site of the medina. Get lost in the maze-like alleys that wind their way up the steep river valley, and marvel at the fact that this car-free urban area stands as the largest in the world.
Should you find yourself disoriented within the labyrinth, pay attention to the direction of your walk, noting whether you are going uphill or downhill. Walking uphill generally leads to the medina’s edges, making it easier to regain your bearings and find transportation if needed.
Start your day with a delectable breakfast before meeting your knowledgeable local tour guide in Fes. Together, delve into the UNESCO-protected medina, where hidden stories and secret corners await. Allow yourself to be captivated by the intricate details of daily life and the awe-inspiring grandeur of madrasas and palaces. As your exploration unfolds, consult your guide for lunch recommendations, as Fes boasts numerous luxurious restaurants tucked behind unassuming doorways.
Immerse yourself further in the city’s vibrant traditions and crafts as you visit tanneries and mosaic workshops. Observe the artisans at work and gain insight into their time-honored techniques that are still employed today, witnessing the creation of masterful pieces.
In the afternoon, prioritize relaxation and retreat to your riad for a well-deserved break. Once rejuvenated, set out to experience a local hammam, a traditional public bath. Indulge in pampering and rejuvenation as most hammams offer an array of services, including massages, baths, and an extensive treatment menu utilizing locally-sourced argan oil products. Begin your hammam ritual with a traditional steam, soak, and scrub, embracing the perfect trifecta of this immersive experience.
This morning, bid farewell to Fes as you embark on a journey back through the renowned Imperial Cities of Rabat and Casablanca. During your stop in Casablanca, recommended by your driver, savor a delightful lunch, taking advantage of the city’s coastal location to enjoy incredibly fresh Atlantic seafood prepared with traditional Moroccan flair.
After lunch, resume your journey, traversing the plains towards Marrakech, affectionately known as the Red City due to its buildings constructed from vibrant, vermillion-hued clay. Upon arrival, check into your riad and take the opportunity to embrace a more leisurely pace for the rest of the afternoon.
As evening approaches, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el Fna, the main square that comes alive with musicians, performers, snake charmers, games, and a multitude of food stalls. Dive into the vibrant spectacle and indulge in the delights offered by street vendors. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed vantage point, settle at a café overlooking the square, where you can savor a wonderful meal while enjoying the captivating show. Whichever dining option you choose, prepare to be enchanted by the fantastic flavors on offer, as Marrakech is revered as Morocco’s culinary capital.
After a satisfying breakfast, accompany your local private guide on a captivating journey through the ancient city of Marrakech. As you meander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant souks and labyrinthine alleys. Immerse yourself in a sensory feast, encountering displays of djellabas, colorful babouches, exquisitely crafted lanterns, aromatic mounds of exotic spices, and the bustling energy of medina life.
During your exploration, your knowledgeable guide will share enthralling tales and enlighten you on the history of the Medina, Souk, and Mellah neighborhoods of the Red City. Trust their expertise as they provide excellent recommendations for the finest lunch spots along the way.
In the afternoon, your private tour continues, revealing the remarkable treasures of Marrakech. Visit architectural marvels such as the Bahia and El Badii Palaces, offering insights into the opulence of Moroccan craftsmanship. Discover the awe-inspiring Saadian Tombs, a mausoleum dating back to the 16th century. Additionally, behold the beauty of Majorelle Gardens, an iconic retreat meticulously created over four decades by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later cherished by renowned designer Yves Saint Laurent. Delight in a leisurely stroll through the serene water gardens, explore the only museum in Morocco dedicated entirely to Berber art and culture, and immerse yourself in the artistic legacy of Yves Saint Laurent within this urban oasis.
Rise early and embark on a scenic coastal journey from Marrakech to Casablanca, as you venture through the Atlantic route and explore two captivating Portuguese fortified cities along the way. Your first stop is El Jadida, where you’ll be immersed in the haunting beauty of the Portuguese cistern. Take your time to wander along the ramparts and discover the intriguing Church of the Assumption.
Continue your coastal exploration to Azemour, a town that has long been an inspiration for Moroccan artists, attracting creative souls who choose to call it home. Despite its proximity to the cosmopolitan art market of Casablanca, Azemour retains its traditional way of life. The 16th-century medina, nestled between the Oud Er-Rbia (Mother of Spring River) and the ocean, offers a rich tapestry of artistic inspiration.
Indulge in the coastal region’s exceptional seafood for lunch, as you savor the Atlantic’s abundant treasures. Your driver can guide you to the local fish markets, where unassuming food stalls serve some of the freshest grilled and fried seafood available. Experience the traditional approach by purchasing your own fish from the market and having it expertly cooked by grillmasters for a nominal fee. Alternatively, you can also order directly from the food stalls.
Upon reaching Casablanca, settle into your stylish downtown hotel before venturing into the city’s trendy neighborhoods to experience local life. Begin your exploration in Maarif, home to the French-style eponymous market, and Ain Diab, a vibrant beachfront community boasting the Morocco Mall and picturesque walking paths. Don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the lively atmosphere along the waterfront, known as the Corniche, particularly during the enchanting moments leading up to sunset when the entire city comes out to promenade and indulge in people-watching.
As your remarkable journey through Morocco draws to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to this captivating country. If your departure flight allows, take advantage of the remaining time to indulge in some final moments of sightseeing in Casablanca or savor a cup of tea at one of the charming traditional cafés. Embrace the atmosphere and cherish the memories created during your time in this enchanting land.
When the appointed hour arrives, your private driver will accompany you to Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, ensuring a seamless transfer for your onward journey. Take this opportunity to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cultural encounters that have enriched your adventure in Morocco.
Depart with cherished memories, carrying the spirit of Morocco within you, and knowing that the beauty and warmth of this remarkable country will forever hold a special place in your heart.
