Morocco has never been more inviting. The country welcomed a record 17.4 million visitors in 2024, and it is easy to see why. Each of its cities offers a different window onto Moroccan life, from ancient walled medinas to breezy Atlantic shores and mountain-fringed retreats. Whether you come for the architecture, the food or the sheer sense of adventure, these are the cities to add to your travel bucket list. Each one rewards a slower, more curious kind of travel.
- Marrakech
Often called the heart of Morocco, Marrakech is where most journeys begin. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of souks, marvel at the tilework of its palaces and gardens, then let the evening unfold in the famous main square as storytellers, musicians and food stalls take over. Effortlessly blending old-world tradition with modern luxury, it is the perfect first taste of the country. Base yourself in a traditional riad, and the whole city feels within reach.
- Fez
For a deeper dive into Morocco’s past, few places compare to Fez. Its UNESCO-listed medina is a warren of narrow lanes, tanneries and craft workshops that have barely changed in centuries. The city is also home to al-Qarawiyyin, recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest continually operating university, founded back in 859. History lovers could lose days here and never tire of it. Getting pleasantly lost is part of the appeal, and a local guide brings the maze to life. The scent of cedar and leather drifts from every workshop.
- Chefchaouen
Tucked into the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is unlike anywhere else in Morocco. Its old town is washed almost entirely in shades of blue, making every alley, doorway and staircase impossibly photogenic. The pace here is easy: wander between artisan shops, pause for mint tea with a mountain view, and enjoy a calmer, more contemplative side of the country far from the bustle of the big cities. It is also a fine base for hikes into the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Essaouira
If the inland cities leave you craving sea air, Essaouira is the antidote. This laid-back fishing port pairs a handsome, walled medina with fresh seafood, whitewashed ramparts and wide, wind-swept beaches beloved by surfers. It is a wonderful place to slow down. Sunset over the harbour, with gulls wheeling above the fishing boats, is worth the trip alone. Travellers keen to combine several highlights often find that guided trips to Morocco add the imperial cities together with coastal towns and desert nights for a truly well-rounded adventure.
From Marrakech’s energy to Essaouira’s calm, Morocco packs great variety into a single country. Pick a few of these cities, or string them together, and you will come home with memories and photographs to last a lifetime.