18 amazing things to do in Morocco you shouldn’t miss
Looking for the best things to do in Morocco? Based on my own travels, I’m happy to help plan your dream trip.
Plan your trip to Morocco
🏡 Where to stay in Morocco
- Marrakech: Riad Villa Sidi Baba (⭐ 9.2)
- Fes: Palais Nazha Fes – Luxury Lodging (⭐ 9.5)
- Chefchaouen: Casa Sabila (⭐ 9.4)
👩🏻 Best guided tours in Morocco
If you’re planning a trip to Morocco or just dreaming about it, you’re in for a treat.
This North African country is packed with stunning landscapes, from the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains, and cities brimming with history like Marrakesh and Fez. The food is amazing, the markets are a treasure trove, and the culture is rich.
In this post, I’ll give you the lowdown on the top things to do in Morocco.
Let’s dive in!
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Best things to do in Morocco
1. Explore the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
The Hassan II Mosque is the biggest mosque in Morocco and it’s open to non-Muslims, which is pretty unusual.
If you’re in Cassablanca, it’s a good opportunity to see what’s inside a massive and important mosque.
Book here – Skip the line Hassan II mosque Premium Tour
2. Check out Bahia Palace in Marrakech
Bahia Palace in Marrakech is a big, old building with detailed designs and lush gardens.
It used to be a rich guy’s house a long time ago, and now you can walk around and explore the beautiful interior.
Book here – Marrakech: Private Guided Half-Day City Tours
3. Walk through the Fez Medina
The Fez Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site with lots of labyrinthine, narrow streets. It’s a place where you can see people making things by hand like they have for hundreds of years.
It’s a good spot to experience what the city used to be like in the past.
The must-visit spot? Fez tannery (on the image below).
Book here – Fez Medina 4-Hour Guided Walking Tour
4. See the fortified village of Aït Benhaddou
Aït Benhaddou is a fortified village, or ksar, built by Berbers.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s been around since at least the 17th century.
The place is famous for its mud-brick buildings and has been used as a backdrop in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Book here – Ait Benhaddou private day trip from Marrakesh
5. Explore the Roman ruins at Volubilis
The Roman ruins of Volubilis are near the town of Meknes and date back to the 3rd century BC, although the city grew significantly under Roman rule from the 1st century AD.
It was an important city in the Roman Empire and the mosaics here are really well kept. They give you a picture of the fancy homes that once stood in this now historical site.
Book here – Small-Group Meknes, Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun from Fez
6. Visit Medersa Ben Youssef in Marrakech
Medersa Ben Youssef in Marrakech was founded in the 14th century and became one of the largest theological colleges in North Africa.
It’s known for its detailed Islamic art, including intricate tile work and wood carvings.
The place was closed for educational purposes in 1960, but now it’s open for visitors to see how students in the past studied and lived.
7. Go on a camel trek in the Sahara Desert
A camel trek through the Sahara Desert is a chance to go old-school and travel like people have been doing here for centuries.
You’ll get to ride over the big sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, some reaching up to 150 meters in height.
Many tours offer overnight stays where you can sleep in a traditional Berber tent and really get the desert experience, complete silence included.
Book here – 2 nights Sahara Desert camp & camel trek
8. Hike in the Atlas Mountains
The Atlas Mountains are perfect for hikers, with trails for all skill levels.
The range includes Mount Toubkal, which is the tallest peak in North Africa at 4,167 meters.
You can go for a tough climb or a casual walk past villages where Berber people live, enjoying some amazing views of the mountains. Just make sure to be mindful of the environment and local customs while you’re out there.
Book here – Private Atlas Mountains Day Trip
9. Visit the Todra Gorge
For rock climbers, the Todra Gorge is a big deal. The cliffs here are made of limestone and some are as high as 300 meters.
It’s near a town called Tinerhir. Climbers of all skills come to tackle these walls.
For those not climbing, the gorge has a really narrow part that’s super impressive and great for taking photos that show off the scale of this place.
Book here – Fez to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert Dunes, 3 Days Tour
10. Visit Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech
Jardin Majorelle is a colorful garden in Marrakech that’s a bit of a calm oasis away from the city noise.
It’s got a collection of plants from around the world and features a bright blue house that was owned by the famous designer Yves Saint Laurent.
The garden was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and covers nearly 2.5 acres.
Book here – Marrakech: Private Guided Half-Day City Tours
11. Experience the evening buzz of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is the heart of Marrakech nightlife.
Once the evening rolls in, the square fills up with all sorts of performers, from snake charmers to musicians.
There are plenty of food stands where you can try local dishes like tagines, which are slow-cooked stews. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for a lively night out.
12. Shop in the Marrakech souks
The Marrakech Souks are the city’s traditional markets, and they’re a maze of shops selling pretty much anything you can think of.
You’ll find spices, textiles, jewelry, and lots of handmade goods.
Haggling over prices is part of the experience, so be ready to negotiate. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs and see local life in action.
Book here – Shopping in the Souks of Marrakech Private Tour
13. Relax in the coastal town of Essaouira
Essaouira is a chill coastal town in Morocco that’s perfect for unwinding.
Its beaches are great for both kicking back and catching some waves if you’re into surfing. The town is also famous for its delicious seafood served in quaint harborfront restaurants.
Essaouira’s medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the town’s relaxed pace of life makes it a favorite escape for both locals and travelers.
Book here – Discover Essaouira by Electric Motorcycle
14. Stroll around the Blue City of Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is a city where everything is painted in various shades of blue.
The city sits in the Rif Mountains and is perfect for peaceful walks and enjoying the stunning views.
The blue color is said to symbolize the sky and heaven, and it gives the city a dreamy, otherworldly vibe.
Book here – Private Photoshoot with a Local Photographer
15. Visit a traditional Moroccan hammam
A visit to a traditional Moroccan Hammam is a must for relaxation.
It’s a steam bath where you go through a ritual of cleansing and exfoliating your skin, often followed by a relaxing massage.
Hammams are a big part of Moroccan culture and are a place where people go to chill out and catch up with friends.
Book here – Spa Hammam & Massage in Marrakech
16. Try Moroccan dishes like tagines and couscous
Moroccan cuisine is all about flavors and spices, and dishes like tagines and couscous are the stars.
Tagines are slow-cooked stews that are super tender and aromatic, often made with meat, veggies, and spices.
Couscous is a staple made from tiny steamed balls of semolina flour, usually served with a stew spooned on top.
17. Take a Moroccan cooking class
For a hands-on food experience, take a Moroccan cooking class.
You’ll learn about the local spices and techniques that make Moroccan food so tasty. It’s a fun way to spend a day and you’ll get to eat what you make.
Plus, you’ll have some new recipes to try out when you get back home, keeping the Moroccan vibe alive in your kitchen.
Book here – Moroccan Cooking Class Marrakech & market with Chef Khmisa
18. Go surfing in Agadir
If you’re into surfing, Agadir has you covered.
The waves are solid, there’s plenty of surf schools if you need some tips, and the vibe is super laid-back.
It’s a great place to ride the waves or just give it a try for the first time.
FAQ – Things to do in Morocco
What should tourists do in Morocco?
When you’re in Morocco, make sure to shop in the local markets, check out the Saadian Tombs, eat some tagines, and go for a camel ride in the Sahara.
What is the #1 tourist attraction in Morocco?
The #1 tourist attraction in Morocco is the Medina of Marrakesh, known for its vibrant markets and rich cultural heritage.
What do people in Morocco do for fun?
People in Morocco enjoy activities like visiting cafes, shopping in souks, spending time at the beach, and attending football matches for fun.
Is Morocco friendly to tourists?
Morocco is a safe place with very little violent crime, especially against tourists. The locals are super friendly and love showing off their culture to visitors.
Plus, they’re usually keen to chat and practice their English with you. It’s a warm and welcoming vibe all around.
More posts about Morocco you might like
- Moroccan food: 17 yummy dishes you should eat in Morocco
- 10 best things to do in Taroudant
- 14 amazing things to do in Agadir
- 17 best souvenirs from Morocco
- How to plan a perfect day trip to the High Atlas Mountains
- 7 best Morocco tours from Seville
- 30 cool fun facts about Morocco for kids and travelers