Best Things to Do in Morocco: How to Spend Your Time in Morocco

Morocco is a North African country bordering the Atlantic Ocean. Many of its attractions are famous for breathtaking landscapes, like the Sahara Desert, the Ouzoud Waterfalls, and the Legzira Beach.

The same thing can also be said about its stunning historical sites, such as the Medina of Fez, the Palais Bahia of Marrakech, or the Koutoubia Mosque. There are just so many places to see and things to do that it can be hard to make a choice.

That’s the reason why we CabinZero are here to show you a full list of the best things to do in Morocco. At the end of this post, you can make an itinerary of your own next time you are about to visit Morocco.

1. Marvel At The Blue Pearl Of Morocco

The most prominent landmark of Morocco has long been covered in blue. Photo by Heidi Kaden on Unsplash

Situated on the Rif Mountains, the Blue Pearl of Morocco (Chefchaouen) is home to buildings known for its white and sky blue colour. This place is often regarded as the iconic feature of this North African country.

Every path you take will only lead you to more stunning views of the city. Due to the sky blue colour, visitors may have the impression of a holy place where God lives. As a matter of fact, the locals in the past had chosen the blue colour to represent the sky and sea.

It may take only a day to explore all the corners of this medina (meaning ‘city’ in Moroccan language) since it is not that large. So, we believe paying a visit here is one of the top things to do in Morocco.

2. Wander Around The Ancient Red-Walled Kasbah Of Marrakesh

Walking the streets of a medina as eye-catching as this is just mesmerising. Photo by Nicolas Postiglioni on Pexels

One of the landmarks that make the name of Marrakesh is, of course, the Red City. Kasbah, which is the name of this medina, means “fortress” in North African terms.

According to history, the medina was founded by the Almohads in the late 12th century as a citadel and a palace complex. However, after two periods of neglect, the medina was then rebuilt, becoming the tourist attraction as we know it to this day.

Also known as the Kasbah of Marrakesh, this place is a walled district surrounded by red ramparts that make the name for themselves. Here all the buildings and walls are fully covered with a reddish colour of clay. 

Walking down the streets, visitors will experience the bustling life of this ancient medina. Among top things to do in Morocco, heading to the Kasbah Garden not so far from there, where you can have some rest is also advisable.

3. Traverse The Boundless Sahara Desert Dunes

Apart from camels and other peculiar species, sand is the only thing you can find. Photo by Tatiana Zanon on Unsplash

If you enjoy watching movies, you would definitely be familiar with the environment where sand and massive dunes are the only resource here. Some forms of rare animals can be found here. One of them is the camel which humans use as a means of transportation.

Following a guided tour, you will find yourselves on the back of the camels. They take you through the boundless sand. Normally, visitors would take a multiple-day trip from Marrakech to Fez.

During this camel ride, you may come across a number of enormous sand dunes. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to admire the breathtaking view of the Dades Valley as well as the High Atlas Mountains towards the end of the trip.

Along the way, once reaching the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, visitors can take a rest in many luxury desert camps here. This experience is, for sure, one of the best things to do in Morocco.

Besides, if camel riding is not your thing, you can always try out quad bikes. This fast-paced experience will definitely give you a new outlook on how people have fun amid the scorching hot desert. 

4. Stroll At The Most Extensive Ancient Walled Medina

This is the place where the leather is embellished with vivid colours. Photo by Carlos Ibáñez on Unsplash

One thing that piques the interest of many visitors travelling to The Kingdom of the Western Place is the old-age medinas here. Aside from the vast Sahara Desert and awe-inspiring beaches, these ancient medinas capture people’s attention at first sight.

Among these monumental structures, Fez (or Fes) really does have an imperial feeling to it. Moreover, we should mention that this place is regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For that reason, it is one of the must-see places in Morocco.

Roaming the streets of Fez, you will have a chance to marvel at some of its unique features. One of its attractions is the world-famous Fes Dar al-Makhzen. This place is where the King of Morocco stays to this day, hence the Royal Palace of Fez.

Aside from the Fes Dar al-Makhzen, just as famous is the Qarawīyīn Mosque. This antique structure dated way back to the 12th century. Nowadays, it has become the largest mosque you can find in Morocco. 

To many visitors’ surprise, the Qarawīyīn is also a university where scholars gather. Although you are not allowed to enter, standing outside in the courtyard is still equally enjoyable. Here you can catch a glimpse of two imposing stone minarets of this mosque and a marble fountain nearby.

One of the most must-see places in Fez has got to be the Palais Amani. Being an incredibly large garden, this tourist attraction is where plenty of citrus and live trees stand.

Alongside the revered royal building and religious structures, the Chouara tannery brings to light the beauty of craftsmanship in Fez. There are rows of pits filled with natural dyes.

Here visitors can admire in person the beautiful and colourful work of craftsmen in the leather tanneries of Fez. Everyday, these hard-working artisans soften animal hides with traditional softening liquids. 

After that, you will get to see how the craftsmen give them such gorgeous colours by dipping the hides in brown pits full of colourful dyes. When finally getting dry, these hides are ready to be on sale!

If the pungent smell of dye is not your cup of tea, feel free to explore souks, street markets of Fez. Walking down narrow paths with various items on both sides, you will be lost for words as there are so many for your sight.

Here we recommend you to try out mint tea since it is the signature drink of Fez, as well as Morocco in general. Just sit back and enjoy the fresh mint leaves while being treated with utmost courtesy by the locals.

5. Slow Your Pace At The Breathtaking Legzira Beach

The jaw-dropping craftsmanship of Mother Nature can hardly be glossed over. Photo by TRANQUILLE INTERNET on Unsplash

There are plenty of things worth doing in Morocco and it surely does take a lifetime to experience all. Among the list of what to do in Morocco for a week, swimming at the Legzira Beach is something worth trying out.

The jewel of North Africa is often known as one of the most stunning beaches around the world. Here you can relieve stress and walk along some of the most gorgeous beaches of the Atlantic coast.

On top of that, you can marvel at the natural arches which is the reason why many people pay a visit to this beach regularly. It is just overwhelming to think such a wonder could exist without the hand of humans.

This magnificent beach of Sidi Ifni also offers great  surfing opportunities. So, if surfing is your thing, hesitate no more and set foot in Legzira Beach now! In North Africa, Legzira Beach is often dubbed as a precious jewel. Similarly, in the Southern regions, there are also plenty of jewels worth discovering.

6. Have A Culture Trip To The First Muslim City In North Africa

Nestling in the Fes-Meknes region is home to one of the most religious cities in North Africa. Photo by El kssiri Othman on Pexels

Regarded as the holiest city of Morocco, Moulay Idriss Zerhoun is the first city to ever spread the religion of Muslims to the people of North Africa. The weather here can be nothing short of fresh and cool as it is situated on high hills.

Another reason for itself being the holiest place is that it strictly adheres to the tradition and Islamic practice. Therefore, we need to follow its dress code by wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts.

One of the best things to do in Morocco is admire the circular minaret of the Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, the one-and-only minaret in Morocco. The view is definitely something that can shake your tiredness off.

7. Sightsee At The Brilliant Palais Bahia Of Marrakesh

 Discover the place once accommodating the past Moroccan ruler and his harem. Photo by Abhishek Choudhary on Unsplash

When it comes to the medina of Marrakesh, it would be a total shortcoming not to take a look at the Bahia Palace. It is a must-see destination for those taking interest in Moroccan history.

Spanning over 8,000 square metres, this stunning building has 160 unoccupied rooms, some of which once housed the lord’s wives and concubines. The highlight is the colourfully tiled courtyard with splashing fountains found at the centre.

From a certain angle, you will be amazed at how intricately therapeutic the building and the sky above seem. No wonder why visitors tend to take many brilliant pictures at the Palais Bahia of Marrakesh; hence, its name “brilliance” in Moroccan terms.

Nowadays, the place serves as a historical museum where visitors can enter for sightseeing purposes. However, there are restricted zones on the other half of the courtyard that forbid visitors from entering.

Upon entering the place, visitors will be greeted by a lush garden. After that, they can marvel at the true Moroccan style of building decoration, which is often seen as one of the best things to do in Morocco.

8. Be At One With Nature At The Magnificent Ouzoud Waterfalls

Nature is an indispensable part of a tourist-attracting country. Photo by Rihards Sarma on Unsplash

Once you have fully explored the bustling medina of Marrakech, you can take respite from the city, venturing further into nature. Located near the Middle Atlas region, the Ouzoud Waterfalls of Azilal is one of the must-see places in Morocco.

It should be noted that this place is open to visitors till 8:30 in the evening. Having said that, you may want to get there in the morning or early afternoon as the light is still at its favourable condition for taking shots.

Let Mother Nature be your nurse as the raging torrents of water will soothe your  mind. Besides, there are not many chances where you can admire a waterfall as imposing as this one.

Nearby, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants for visitors to get some rest while enjoying the beauty of nature from afar. If you want to do some therapeutic activities, swimming and boat riding are also go-to options.

9. Hike The World-famous Atlas Mountains

Hike imposing mountains and check out just how living on those feels like. Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Have enough rest? If you are into vigorous activities, looking for something adventurous to do, High Atlas Mountains has you covered.

Topping over 4,000 kilometres, this snow-clad mountain range is a go-to place of North Africa for intrepid trekking lovers. Usually, it takes about four hours to get to the summit. This is one of the top things to do in Morocco.

Here it is suitable for visitors to trek at any time of the year. However, bear in mind that the temperature at the High Atlas Mountains tends to change drastically from day to night. So, it is advisable to trek in the morning.

Once you have done trekking, you can always take a rest at the Berber Villages etched on the Middle Atlas. Here you will get to see the Berber-speaking people and get to know their tradition and history.

10. Let The Nightlife Of Casablanca Overwhelm You

 This coastal city turns out to be a melting pot of various cultures. Photo by Danny Lau on Unsplash

Located near the Atlantic Ocean, this bustling city of Morocco is seen as an international centre where cultures of different countries unite. Vibrant and noisy, this city of splendour has something for everyone.

If you look for a brief stay, Casablanca should be on the top list of your must-see places in Morocco. Here you can enter Casablanca’s Old Medina and catch a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of the local people.

Situated near the Atlantic Ocean, the Hassan II Mosque stands still as the landmark of this wonderful coastal city. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that its minaret used to claim the title of being the largest in the world.

As outstanding as it is by day, Casablanca shines by night. In the largest city of Morocco, visitors can enjoy to the fullest its urban adventures at bars, restaurants, and musical festivals if you are lucky enough. 

If Casablanca does not sound like your cup of tea, there are still a vast range of other amazing places in Morocco that are worth visiting.

11. Explore The Hidden Gems Of Rabat

Walk the streets of the Moroccan capital city to unveil its appeals. Photo by Idriss Meliani on Unsplash

Also located on the coastal region is the capital of Morocco, Rabat. Just like Casablanca, this vibrant city has a lot to offer, making it one of the must-see places in Morocco.

To the North of Rabat, you will stumble upon the landmark of this magnificent city, the Hassan Tower. Although its minaret was yet to be completed, it still draws considerable attention from visitors annually.

Want to see where the royal Moroccan members live? Here in the capital of Morocco, you will find the Royal Palace of Rabat where the king and his family reside. From afar, you can catch a glimpse of an imposing minaret standing still in the centre of the palace.

When you are here, we recommend you to visit the Kasbah des Oudaias, an age-old citadel of Rabat. Here you can take a bird-eye view of the ocean from the top of the hill and walk on the blue and white streets.

12. Be Lost For Words At The Wind City Of Africa

Watching fishermen going about their daily tasks on distinct blue boats is a mesmerising view. Photo by Emma Van Sant on Unsplash

If you are into seafood, Essaouira is for you. This coastal city was once the powerhouse of shipping, claiming the largest port back in the day. Nowaday,  it has now become a tourist attraction owing to the hip vibe and amazing cuisine.

Here you will come across the signature of the Wind City of Africa, the one-of-the-kind blue fishing boats. It is difficult not to be amazed by the same vibrant blue colours they all share.

Seeing the fishermen tend their nets up close or taking pictures of the whole harbour is one of the famous activities here. On top of that, you can also savour the seafood freshly caught by the fishermen in the fish markets nearby.

If you are going to stay there for a while, you may want to attempt windsurfing as Essaouira is the mecca for windsurfers. This is definitely on the top list of what to do in Morocco for a week.

13. Admire The Saadian Tombs Of Marrakech

Paying respect in this grand mausoleum or taking a therapeutic walk is advisable. Photo by Ondrej Bucek on Adobe Stock

If you want a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh. Consider visiting the sacred mausoleum, where you will stumble upon plenty of  tombs where dozens of Saadian family members rest.

From the hall, you can easily reach the Prayer Hall and the Hall of the Three Niches. The mausoleum is surrounded by gardens where tombs of noble family members can also be found.

Taking a tour from the beginning to the end, all you will find is peace of mind. This is understandable given the tranquillity spreading throughout the tomb. Therefore, we recommend you to pay respect at one of the must-see places in Morocco.

14. Get Absorbed In The Moroccan Cuisine

Sometimes the best way to gain insights of a country's culture is by sampling its dishes. Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

When it comes to food in this North African country, there are plenty of options for visitors to choose from. Casablanca is the place where you can find all of the bright candidates.

In Casablanca, there are a wide variety of quintessential dishes that make the name of Morocco. You can eat to your heart’s content tagines, Mrouzia, Al Jawda, Bastila and the likes.

Taking Marrakech food tours is an eye-opening experience as some of the finest dishes of Moroccan culture are laid bare. However, if you are curious about how these amazing dishes are made, Blue Door Cuisine has your answer.

This serves as somewhat of a workshop nestled in the Tangier region. With instructions, visitors can learn the art of cooking traditional North African dishes, such as chicken tagine, couscous, and Moroccan bread.

From this experience, visitors are expected to understand the tradition and lifestyle of the Moroccan people. For that reason, we CabinZero believe this is one of the best things to do in Morocco.

15. Gape At The Monumental Koutoubia Mosque 

This towering building bears the hallmark of Marrakesh as a whole. Photo by Jaeh on Unsplash

The Koutoubia Mosque is known as not only a place where Muslims gather to pray but also the landmark of Marrakesh. Built by one of the caliph Almohad caliph Yaqub Al-Mansur, the mosque still stands to this day.

This imposing structure is topped with four brass balls that are yellow in colour. Legend has it that those balls were once made of gold, and there were three of them.

Legends has it the fourth one was given to the mosque as an act of redemption by none other than the caliph’s wife. She was found eating during Ramadan and had to melted all her jewelry to made the fourth ball sas a punishment.

So, to redeem her action, she melted all her golden jewellery, making the fourth ball. However, the reason why the four-ball minaret was replaced by the brass material still remains a mystery.

From afar, visitors can still see the shining minaret as long as they are within the Marrakech region. The 70-metre building contains six massive rooms for prayers; each room tops on one another. All lead to the marinet on the top.

Outside the mosque is a flowered garden with a wide variety of trees and a small water fountain at the centre. As one of the top things to do in Morocco, visitors can take pictures of the symbol of Marrakesh, admiring it in awe.

16. Take A Leisurely Walk At The Menara Gardens

Take a panoramic view of the pavilion together with the vast and seemingly boundless garden. Photo by marcofedermann on Pixabay

One of the most well-known gardens of Marrakesh is obviously the Menara Garden. This garden has long been regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site all the way since 1985.

The first thing visitors notice instantly is the massive square lake which forms the centre of the garden. As a matter of fact, the lake once served as a swimming pool for military troops back in the days. However, you may not want to take a dive as it was also used as a cemetery.

Surrounding the lake are numerous rows of olive trees. These rows are put in a formation that gives visitors a sense of peace. Many people come here regularly, wandering through a garden full of olive trees and enjoying peaceful moments with Mother Nature.

On one side of the lake is a pavilion where you can have a panoramic view of the whole garden. You can take perfect pictures of both the garden and the Atlas Mountains from afar as a background.

If you have a chance to travel to Marrakesh, this is the place you would not want to miss, for it is considered as one of the must-see places in Morocco.

Begin your journey now!

If the truth be told, there are other things to do in Morocco but we have yet to cover them. However, with all the above-listed activities, you may now understand why the Western Kingdom is truly worth your visit. 

Hopefully, after reading this detailed list, we CabinZero can help you come up with a plan of what to do in Morocco. May your upcoming trip to this place of wonders be an unforgettable memory!

Dat Huynh