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From the busy markets and ancient medinas of imperial cities to the serenity of the Sahara Desert and the majestic peaks of the Atlas Mountains, Morocco offers a tapestry of experiences. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking for something new, these Morocco itinerary suggestions — broken up by how much time you have — will guide you through the highlights and hidden gems of a captivating destination.
This is just a sampling of a few of the country’s highlights. For a tailored itinerary that takes your interests, preferences and budget into account, connect with a Fora Advisor. Our advisors have access to trusted partners on the ground and a wealth of insider knowledge. Combined with their travel expertise, this insider edge goes a long way toward crafting the Morocco itinerary of your dreams. Plus, your Fora Advisor can score all sorts of exciting perks at the top hotels across Morocco.
Reach out to a Fora travel advisor and start planning today.
First, how many days do you need in Morocco?
It ultimately depends on which destinations appeal to you. Marrakech alone deserves at least three or four nights. Also consider adding on an additional two nights in locations like the Atlas Mountains and Essaouira, Morocco. You could easily spend weeks in Morocco and still have plenty of new things to see and do on your next visit.
Most travelers don’t have unlimited time constraints, though. Plus, you’ll likely spend at least two days of your trip flying in and out of Morocco. With that in mind, you'll probably want at least five to seven days to get the most out of your trip. This will give you enough time between travel dates to explore various spots without feeling the pressure of having to pack up as soon as you’re over the jet lag.
Most of our Fora Advisors recommend building your trip around the time you have. If you only have three or four days, you can totally build a fun Morocco itinerary — you’ll just have to be selective. This is where a Fora Advisor can be especially helpful. They’ll let you know which experiences are worth prioritizing (again, per your interests) so you can make the most of your vacation time.
Crafting the ideal Morocco itinerary: 4 potential ideas
We’ve got four customizable itinerary options for you as a starting point. Each suggestion is based on the number of days you’ll have to actively explore, and doesn’t include air travel. You’ll want to budget two extra days to each itinerary idea for the latter.
Alternatively, if you’re simply looking for things to do in Morocco without the time constraints, check out our guide.
Spending 3–5 days in Morocco: Casablanca to Marrakech
Casablanca and Marrakech offer an intriguing blend of modernity and tradition.
Most American flights to Morocco land in Casablanca, so it usually makes sense to start your trip here. On day one, you can explore iconic landmarks like the Hassan II Mosque near the city’s old medina before checking out the shops and restaurants in the vibrant Art Deco district. At night, rest up in a ritzy property like Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca to recover from the jet lag (or check out more of our favorite hotels in Casablanca, Morocco). If you don’t want to spend your time in Casablanca (many travelers use it as a stopover city), you can just head straight to Marrakech.
In Marrakech, stay in or near the ancient medina, a bustling destination with labyrinthine souks (open-air markets), historic palaces and the chaotic but amazing atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Depending on whether you have the extra days, you can also enjoy a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. If you have more time, consider adding on a few days for the Agafay Desert (part of the larger Sahara).
As for accommodations, staying at a riad-style hotel like Royal Mansour Marrakech or The Oberoi Marrakech offers a luxe example of traditional Moroccan hospitality. We have a full guide on the best hotels in Marrakech.
(For additional Morocco inspiration, this 5-day Morocco itinerary is jam-packed with destinations.)
Alternatively: Check out Fes & Marrakech
If you’re more interested in Morocco’s spiritual side and history, you can trade Casablanca for Fes and compare the medinas of the two imperial cities. Whereas Marrakech is somewhat more modern, Fes offers a deeper glimpse into Morocco’s past. The two cities are similar in many ways, but Fes has an authenticity to it that will appeal to culture enthusiasts.
Fair warning: Marrakech and Fes are further apart. By car, it takes nearly six hours to traverse the distance. Or you can fly, which cuts that time dramatically. A Fora Advisor can help you decide what’s right for you.
Spending 7–10 days in Morocco: Marrakech, the Sahara & the coast
With seven to 10 days, you can pack more destinations into your Morocco itinerary. You won’t have to worry so much about missing some of the best things to visit in Marrakech and you’ll be able to spend more time visiting the Atlas Mountains or Sahara Desert.
You can also spend a couple of days on Morocco’s coast. Essaouira is less than three hours from Marrakech, and the change of pace and scenery is striking. A perpetual ocean breeze seems to have a calming effect on the city, and its medina is more bohemian and laid-back compared to the medinas of the imperial cities. The beaches here are also teeming with opportunities to surf, kiteboard or simply enjoy the sun before you end your trip.
(For an alternative itinerary idea, check out a Fora Advisor’s guide to spending 10 days in Morocco.)
Spending 2+ weeks in Morocco: a grand tour
Two weeks in Morocco will give you plenty of time to experience much of the country’s highlights. The imperial cities, the coasts, the mountains and deserts…There’s no reason you can’t maximize your time to see many of Morocco’s best places to visit. Below is a sample itinerary suggested by our partners at Experience Morocco.
Start in Rabat for a day (which is a great opportunity to recover from jet lag) before traveling to the blue-hued Chefchaouen for a night. Next, head to Fes for a cultural shift. After another three days there, you can travel to the desert for a night.
By day seven or eight, visit Skoura to take in all the city has to offer for two nights before traveling to Marrakech for at least three. This should leave you with one or two days to spend in the Atlas or on Morocco’s Atlantic coast in Essaouira before you head back to Casablanca to travel home.
Reach out to a Fora Advisor and they can help you plan your full Morocco itinerary in detail (and help you out in the event something goes awry).
Morocco itinerary FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about building a Morocco itinerary.
Is it better to land in Marrakech or Casablanca?
Currently, nearly all major flights to Morocco from the Americas land in Casablanca. However, beginning in late October 2024, United Airlines will start running direct flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to Marrakech.
Once you have the option, choosing between Marrakech and Casablanca really comes down to how you want to spend your Morocco itinerary. Casablanca and Marrakech are roughly within the same distance from many of Morocco’s top destinations. There’s no wrong answer — it depends on which places interest you most.
What’s the best way to travel between cities in Morocco?
Morocco’s major cities are all connected by highways. We recommend finding a local driver who can take you from destination to destination. Flying is also an option between the major cities.
Our Morocco travel guide answers this question in more detail. You can always ask a Fora Advisor for help, too.
What are the best months to travel to Morocco? Will this affect your Morocco itinerary?
Spring and fall are typically considered the best times to visit Morocco. The weather is milder across the country and most attractions are ready for travelers. Of course, this is also Morocco’s busiest travel season, so you’ll be competing with other travelers, which could affect your itinerary.
Generally speaking, if you plan ahead and make the right reservations, you should be able to do everything on your Morocco itinerary.
Is Morocco a place where you can make up your itinerary as you go?
Technically, yes, but we recommend mapping out what you want to do in advance, especially if you are going to multiple destinations. We get it — sometimes it’s best to head to a new destination and see where the path takes you. But it’s worth highlighting that you could miss out on experiences or hidden gems without a general game plan to follow.
This article has been reviewed and fact-checked by our expert partners at Experience Morocco.
Want help building your Morocco itinerary? Plan with a Fora Advisor
Building your Morocco itinerary with the expertise and resources of a Fora travel advisor is a great way to maximize the time you have on your trip. They’ll help you decide which places to visit, and can also coordinate logistics for you, too.
Can’t wait to jet off? Connect with a Fora Advisor to start planning your Morocco itinerary today.
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