Morocco

Imperial Cities, Desert Landscapes & Timeless Culture

Discover Morocco

A country of colour, contrast and centuries-old traditions

Morocco is a destination that engages all the senses. Ancient medinas buzz with life, the call to prayer echoes across historic cities, and vast deserts stretch beyond snow-capped mountains. Sitting at the crossroads of Africa, Europe and the Middle East, Morocco blends Arab, Berber and European influences into a culture that feels both exotic and accessible.

For visitors, Morocco offers extraordinary variety within relatively short distances. In a single trip it is possible to explore imperial cities, relax on Atlantic beaches, trek in the Atlas Mountains and spend nights under desert stars. Whether visiting for the first time or returning to uncover new regions, Morocco consistently delivers depth, atmosphere and unforgettable experiences. Especially Marrakesh is a perfect destinations for first time visitors to the country. There's plenty to see and do and it's a base to explore the Atlas Mountains as well as some deserts. English and French are also widely spoken and the tourist infrastructure is pretty good. Read more about Marrakesh here

Visa Requirements

Morocco offers straightforward entry for European travellers.

EU passport holders can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism purposes.

A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry is required.

No visa is required in advance for short stays, and entry procedures are generally efficient at airports and land borders.

Language Spoken

Morocco is linguistically diverse.

• Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) are the official languages.
• French is widely spoken and commonly used in business, government and tourism.
• English is increasingly spoken, particularly in major cities, hotels, riads and tourist areas.
• Spanish is also understood in some northern regions.

Most visitors find communication easy, especially when travelling on established tourist routes.

Accepted Currencies

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, riads and modern shops, particularly in cities.

Cash is essential for souks, taxis, small cafés and rural areas.

ATMs are widely available, and currency exchange is straightforward.

Weather & Best Time to Visit Morocco

Morocco’s climate varies significantly by region.

• Spring (March–May): One of the best times to visit, with warm temperatures and blooming landscapes.
• Autumn (September–November): Ideal for sightseeing, desert tours and coastal travel.
• Summer (June–August): Very hot inland and in the desert, though coastal areas remain more comfortable.
• Winter (December–February): Mild in cities and along the coast, cold in the Atlas Mountains, with snow at higher elevations.

Best time to visit:

• March to May and September to November for comfortable temperatures and varied itineraries
  

Destinations to Discover in Morocco

Marrakech – The Red City

Marrakech is Morocco’s most iconic destination, a city where tradition and modern luxury exist side by side. Behind the rose-coloured walls of the medina lies a maze of souks, palaces, mosques and hidden riads, while the newer districts offer stylish restaurants, rooftop bars and boutique hotels. The city’s energy is constant, shifting from the theatrical spectacle of Jemaa el-Fnaa by day to a lantern-lit atmosphere filled with music, food stalls and storytellers by night.



Highlights & things to do:

• Experience Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s central square, day and night
• Explore the souks and artisan quarters of the medina
• Visit Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace and the Saadian Tombs
• Relax in a traditional hammam or rooftop riad
• Discover Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Fes – Cultural & Spiritual Heart

Fes is the cultural soul of Morocco and home to one of the world’s largest and best-preserved medieval cities. The Fes el-Bali medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where daily life continues much as it has for centuries. Narrow streets are filled with craftsmen at work, from leather tanners and metalworkers to mosaic artisans and calligraphers.

Highlights & things to do:

• Navigate the UNESCO-listed medina of Fes el-Bali
• Visit historic madrasas such as Bou Inania and Al Attarine
• View the Chouara Tannery and traditional leather production
• Explore artisan workshops producing tiles, metalwork and ceramics
• Discover the Royal Palace gates and Jewish Quarter (Mellah)

Chefchaouen – The Blue City

Chefchaouen is one of Morocco’s most visually distinctive towns, famed for its blue-washed streets and relaxed mountain setting. Tucked into the Rif Mountains, it offers a peaceful contrast to the intensity of the larger cities. The blue hues, originally linked to spiritual symbolism, now create a calm, photogenic environment that draws artists, photographers and slow travellers.

Highlights & things to do:

• Wander the blue-washed medina streets
• Relax in cafés around Plaza Uta el-Hammam
• Walk to the Spanish Mosque for sunset views
• Explore nearby Rif Mountain trails
• Shop for locally made textiles and crafts

The Sahara Desert – Iconic Moroccan Landscapes

The Sahara represents Morocco at its most elemental. Vast dunes stretch to the horizon, silence dominates the landscape, and nights reveal skies filled with stars. Visiting the desert—typically near Merzouga or Zagora—is a highlight for many travellers and offers a profound sense of scale and stillness.

Highlights & things to do:

• Take a camel trek across golden sand dunes
• Stay overnight in a desert camp under the stars
• Watch sunrise and sunset over the dunes
• Enjoy traditional music and Berber hospitality
• Travel through desert landscapes, oases and kasbah towns

Unmissable Experiences in Morocco

Wander the Imperial Cities

Morocco’s imperial cities—Marrakech, Fes, Meknes and Rabat—form the historical backbone of the country. Each offers a distinct atmosphere, from Marrakech’s theatrical energy to Fes’s scholarly traditions. Exploring these cities reveals Morocco’s architectural mastery, from intricate tilework and carved cedarwood to fortified walls and grand palaces.

Sleep in a Traditional Riad

Staying in a riad is one of the most authentic ways to experience Morocco. These traditional homes, built around internal courtyards, provide calm retreats from the busy medinas outside. Many have been beautifully restored, combining historic features with modern comfort, and often include rooftop terraces, fountains and intimate dining spaces.

Experience Moroccan Cuisine First-Hand

Moroccan food is deeply rooted in tradition and regional diversity. Tagines simmer slowly with spices, couscous is prepared for communal meals, and mint tea is offered as a gesture of hospitality. Food markets, cooking classes and family-run restaurants offer insight into Morocco’s culinary culture beyond tourist menus.

Journey into the Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains offer dramatic scenery and a chance to experience rural Morocco. Berber villages, terraced farmland and high mountain passes reveal a slower, more traditional way of life. Whether through guided treks, scenic drives or village stays, the Atlas region adds depth and balance to city-focused itineraries.

Morocco Know-How: Top Tips for First-Timers

A destination of depth, diversity and enduring appeal

Morocco offers a rare combination of accessibility and adventure, where historic cities, mountain landscapes and desert horizons sit within easy reach of Europe. Rich in culture, hospitality and visual beauty, it rewards both first-time visitors and seasoned travellers with experiences that feel vivid, meaningful and unforgettable.