With its rich historical past, bustling medinas and unique cuisine, Morocco is a smorgasbord of sights, spices and sounds. Scattered throughout the country, Morocco’s cities offer an interesting mix of tradition and modernity. Though each city offers an array of bazaars, souks and medinas packed with artisans selling rugs, mosaics, furniture and trinkets, they also serve as convenient points from which to begin further exploration into the country’s natural wonders.
Take a tour of four of Morocco’s most popular—and conveniently located—cities:
Considered the “Pink City” of Morocco for the color of materials used in the construction of its buildings, Marrakesh is a busy city teeming with noise and crowded streets. Its central square, Place Djemaa el-Fna, is lively with vendors, entertainers and cafes. The Majorelle Gardens and Saadian Tombs are also popular attractions, and many people visit the city’s annual arts festival, which is held in mid-July. Despite the hustle and bustle, however, Marrakesh makes for the perfect destination for a Morocco trekking experience. It lies on the edge of the Middle Atlas Mountains, which provides an easy gateway to the High Atlas Mountains, where the country’s most popular trekking tours take place. Berber villages are spread throughout the peaks, gorges and valleys, but without a tour operator, you may not be able to find most of the villages because so much of the region remains unmapped.
Visit Fez to experience the country’s ability to fuse the historic traditions with a modern vibe. The city was built by the French during medieval times, and today there is a marked difference between the New Town and Old Town. Though you cannot enter the Kairaouine Mosque unless you are Muslim, take time to examine and appreciate the exterior of the building. There are also three museums in Fez—the Dar Batha Museum, the Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts, and the Belghazi Museum—that offer a comprehensive overview of Moroccan culture and history. Don’t leave the city without visiting the medina, where hundreds of narrow streets converge, many of which beckon with shopping. You can find almost anything in this city … especially a great bargain.
For a slower-paced city vibe, consider visiting Essaouira, which allows visitors to escape the typical crowds that form in many Moroccan cities. Located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Essaouira offers a laid back, relaxing atmosphere where people can stroll along the beaches and wine and dine on fresh seafood at their leisure in the city’s many restaurants. For the most complete experience in Essaouira, plan your travels for June, when the city’s Gnaoua World Music Festival takes place.
Meknes is Morocco’s smallest imperial city. Built in the 17th century, Meknes is a hot spot for classic Moroccan architecture. Known for its large carvings and even larger gates that welcome visitors to the city, Meknes is a fortified city-within-a-city with many palaces, dungeons, mosques and gardens. While you’re here, make sure you visit the Moulay Ismael Mausoleum, one of the few holy places that non-Muslims are allowed to enter.
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