The Ultimate Morocco Itinerary: From Coastal Calm to Medina Mayhem

Africa, Guide

Morocco had been on my bucket list for years — and when we finally made it happen, I wasn’t prepared for just how dynamic this country would be. Over just two weeks in Morocco, we covered a lot of ground: windswept beaches in Essaouira, the vibrant chaos of Marrakech, ancient medinas in Fez, oceanfront calm in Skhirat, and the understated elegance of Rabat, Morocco’s capital. We even squeezed in a high-speed adventure to Tangier at the end.

The pace was constantly shifting — from laid-back coastal mornings to bustling souks by night — and that’s what made this trip so memorable. If you’re looking for a Morocco travel guide that blends history, culture, coastlines, and energy into one unforgettable trip, this Morocco itinerary is it.

Table Of Contents
  1. 🧭 Our Morocco Travel Route
  2. Casablanca – A Coastal Kickoff
  3. Essaouira – Beach Vibes & Sunset Horseback Rides 
  4. Marrakech – Culture, Chaos & Christmas Vibes 
  5. Fez – Labyrinth Lanes, Ancient Vibes & Leather Tannery Views
  6. Skhirat & Rabat – Coastal Chill, Catching Up with Friends & Ringing in the New Year
  7. Day Trip to Tangier
  8. 🛏️ Recommended Hotels in Morocco
  9. 🌍 Final Thoughts: Planning the Perfect Morocco Itinerary

🧭 Our Morocco Travel Route

  • ✈️ Toronto (YYZ) → Casablanca (CMN) Direct flight with Air Canada — easy and efficient way to kick things off.
  • 🚆 Casablanca → Marrakech Took the ONCF train (~3 hrs). Comfortable, scenic, and departs hourly. Booked tickets online.
  • 🚗 Marrakech → Essaouira Our riad arranged a private driver to pick us up at the train station. The ride took 2.5 hrs and cost €90. Worth it for the convenience after a long travel day.
  • 🚗 Essaouira → Marrakech Same deal on the return — another private transfer for €90.
  • ✈️ Marrakech → Fez We flew instead of taking the long train. It was only an hour and cost around €40.
  • 🚆 Fez → Rabat Caught the train (runs hourly). Took just under 3 hours — a smooth and scenic ride.
  • 🚗 Skhirat → Rabat Our friends drove us — about 30 minutes.
  • 🚄 Rabat → Tangier Hopped on the Al Boraq high-speed train. Super smooth and just under 2 hours.
  • 🚄 Tangier → Casablanca Finished off the trip with another Al Boraq train — about 2 hours back to where we started.

Casablanca – A Coastal Kickoff

We arrived in Casablanca on a mild winter morning — around 18°C — and immediately jumped into exploration mode. We had just one day here, so we wanted to make it count.

We stayed near the city centre, which gave us easy access to the Old Medina and the Corniche. That night, we joined a GuruWalk tour of the old town — a great way to learn about the city’s history in just two hours with a local guide.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Kaan Casablanca, a comfortable and modern hotel with a central location near the train station. The room was clean and well-equipped, the staff were kind, and it made for a smooth landing after a long-haul flight. If you’re catching a train early the next morning, it’s a solid and affordable base.

💻 Looking for a convenient overnight stay in Casablanca? Book your stay at Kaan Casablanca here.

Things to Do in Casablanca

We knew we didn’t have time for a full sightseeing itinerary, so we focused on the best way to get our bearings: a free walking tour of the Old Medina.

  • GuruWalk: Explore Casablanca’s Old Medina with a Local: This free tour was the perfect way to kick off our time in Morocco. Our guide shared stories about the city’s colonial past, Moroccan identity, and the shifting architecture through the decades. It was relaxed, informative, and gave us a great introduction to life in Morocco.Tours are tip-based and run in the evenings — we did ours at sunset and highly recommend it.

If you have more time in Casablanca, other popular options include:

  • Hassan II Mosque: One of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims, right on the Atlantic coast.
  • The Corniche: A beachfront promenade perfect for a sunset stroll.
  • Old Medina: More laid-back than the famous medinas in Fez or Marrakech, but full of local charm. Wandering here with a guide helped us spot things we’d definitely miss on our own.
  • Habous Quarter: A quieter, French-influenced part of the city with great shopping and architecture.
  • Mahkama du Pacha: A hidden gem in the Habous Quarter, this stunning Andalusian-style courthouse is filled with intricate tile work, carved cedar ceilings, and traditional arches. It’s not always open to the public, so you may need to go with a guide or ask politely at the entrance — but it’s absolutely worth the effort if you can get in.
  • Villa des Arts: A contemporary art museum housed in a beautiful 1930s villa. It’s free to enter and offers a mix of modern Moroccan and international exhibitions. A great stop if you want a break from the medina and something a bit more curated.

Where to Eat & Drink

Before the walking tour, we grabbed a quick bite at a casual pizza spot near the city centre — nothing fancy, but it totally hit the spot. Sometimes, after a long travel day and jet lag, pizza just wins over tagine. No regrets.

After the tour, we stopped at a local bar nearby for a glass of Moroccan wine — one of the few places we came across where you could just walk in for a drink without needing a full dinner reservation.

If you’re staying in the city centre and want something more sit-down or memorable, here are a few solid options to consider:

  • Bondi Coffee Kitchen: Stylish café with great coffee, brunch, and healthy-ish bites.
  • Restaurant Al Mounia: One of the most iconic spots in Casablanca for traditional Moroccan food. Their tagines are beautifully seasoned and slow-cooked to perfection— especially the lamb with prunes and almonds, or the chicken with preserved lemon. The setting feels old-world and elegant, with Andalusian tile work and a peaceful garden courtyard.
  • La Bavaroise: Elegant, old-school brasserie known for its steaks and French-Moroccan flavours.
  • L’Etoile Centrale: Retro diner-style spot serving up classic Moroccan dishes in a super laid-back setting.

☕ Tip: If you’re into film history or want a cinematic dinner setting, Rick’s Café is a Casablanca icon. We skipped it, but it’s a go-to for many visitors.

💡 Tips for Visiting Casablanca

  • Use it as a soft landing. It’s a great entry point if you’re flying internationally — just don’t expect the medina magic of Marrakech.
  • Trains run like clockwork. Getting out of Casablanca is easy — we booked our ticket to Marrakech in advance at ONCF and had zero issues.
  • Don’t skip the walking tour. It’s an easy, low-effort way to get some context for the city and break through its surface-level chaos.

Essaouira – Beach Vibes & Sunset Horseback Rides 

Essaouira was hands-down my favourite stop of the trip. A breezy, blue-and-white coastal town that felt both relaxed and alive — with just enough chaos to keep things interesting. There’s a creative, bohemian energy here, paired with the kind of slow coastal pace that makes you want to stay longer than you planned.

We reached Essaouira by taking the train to Marrakech, then grabbing a private transfer to the coast (you can also take the Supratours bus if you’re on a tighter budget — it’s about 75 dirhams or $5 USD). Either way, the journey is part of the adventure.

We stayed in a charming riad tucked into the medina. Think mosaic tile floors, cozy fireplaces, and home-cooked breakfasts with fresh fruit and mint tea. It was the perfect base for slow mornings, medina wandering, and golden-hour beach adventures.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Ryad Watier, a peaceful, elegant riad in the heart of the medina. Our deluxe room had a seating area and a wood-burning fireplace, which made it feel extra cozy in the evenings. The staff were warm and helpful, even arranging traditional massages at the riad during our stay.

Breakfast was included, and although we didn’t have a chance to try it (we were always out exploring early), the staff did offer a traditional Moroccan spread with fresh fruit, coffee, and pastries. If you like starting your day slow, it’s a nice extra.

👉 Looking for a peaceful stay in the heart of Essaouira’s medina? Book your stay at Ryad Watier here.

Things to Do in Essaouira

  • Sunset Horseback Riding in Diabat: This was one of the absolute highlights of our Morocco trip. We did a 3-hour ride with Yassine Cavalier, starting from nearby Diabat and riding through the dunes and along the beach at golden hour. The views were stunning, the horses were clearly well cared for, and the whole experience felt thoughtful and immersive — not touristy.

Tip: Choosing a reputable and ethical provider is so important. Some beach touts and unverified operators don’t treat their horses well, and it shows. If you’re planning a ride, we highly recommend booking ahead with one of these trusted options:

👉 Book our exact ride with Yassine Cavalier here
👉 Zouina Cheval on TripAdvisor
👉 Cheval Essaouira on TripAdvisor

All of these tours leave from the stables in Diabat and usually offer pickup from the medina or its a short taxi ride away.

We strongly recommend skipping beach touts and doing your homework before booking — not just for the experience, but for the well-being of the animals.

  • Wander the Medina: Essaouira’s medina is peaceful, colourful, and refreshingly easy to navigate. We browsed art galleries, textile shops, and spice stalls, and came home with a beautiful tan leather pouf and rose oil — at prices way better than Marrakech or Fez.
  • Visit the Fishing Port: Go in the morning to watch the boats come in and the fish market roar to life. Loud, gritty, and authentic — this was one of the best spots to just observe everyday local life.
  • Try a Traditional Hammam: Whether you go for a local hammam or a more luxurious spa-style one, this is an essential Moroccan experience. Prepare to be steamed, scrubbed, and fully relaxed.
  • Sunset Sips: For rooftop vibes and evening drinks, it’s hard to beat Taros — live music, ocean breeze, and mint tea or wine (your choice).

Shopping & Experiences in Essaouira

Essaouira is the kind of place where you actually want to shop — not because you feel pressured, but because everything feels personal, handmade, and just a little bit magical. Prices were far better than in Marrakech or Fez, and the pace is slower, so you can actually take your time and chat with the shopkeepers.

  • Souvenirs I Loved: I picked up a gorgeous handmade leather pouf and a small bottle of rose oil I still use. The medina is full of high-quality goods like woven throws, pottery, natural soaps, and argan-based beauty products.
  • Cooking Classes & Argan Oil Co-ops: If you want to go beyond browsing, taking a cooking class or visiting a local argan oil cooperative is a great way to connect with Moroccan culture and craftsmanship.👉 Browse top-rated Essaouira cooking classes on Viator👉 Or check out options on GetYourGuide

Tip: Some argan co-ops just outside Essaouira are run by women and welcome walk-in visitors — ask your riad for recommendations or hire a local guide who can take you.

Where to Eat & Drink in Essaouira

Essaouira’s food scene really surprised me — relaxed but consistently delicious, with cozy rooftops, incredible seafood, and a few spots that were so good we went back twice. These were the places we actually loved:

  • KSOU Restaurant Rooftop: Traditional Moroccan food, warm service, and a rooftop view — we loved it so much, we went back twice.Tip: Make a reservation — it fills up fast, even on weeknights.
  • Restaurant Chez Sam: Right down by the fishing port. Grilled seafood, harbour views, and a casual, local feel.
  • Triskala Café: Artsy, plant-based friendly, and a little quirky in the best way. A great choice when you need a break from tagines.
  • Fishburger Essaouira: Don’t let the name fool you — this place serves creative, seafood-forward plates with a modern twist. Really casual and really good.
  • Restaurant Adwak: A favourite for traditional Moroccan dishes. The space is intimate and cozy, and the food was some of the best we had.Tip: Definitely reserve ahead — this one books up quickly.
  • Restaurant La Tolérance: Understated and affordable, with generous portions and consistently great seafood.

Street Snacks: Don’t miss m’semen (flaky Moroccan flatbread) and harira (hearty lentil and tomato soup) from one of the stalls along Av. de l’Istiqlal. Warm, cheap, filling, and full of flavour — perfect after a long day of wandering.

💡 Tips for Visiting Essaouira

  • Pack layers: Even when it’s sunny, the Atlantic breeze can be strong — especially in the evenings. A light jacket or scarf was essential.
  • Stay in the medina: Everything you’ll want to do is walkable, and the atmosphere inside the medina is peaceful, charming, and full of personality.
  • Avoid beach touts: Whether it’s horseback riding or camel rides, stick with reputable, ethical operators that treat their animals well. (We booked ours here and loved it.)
  • Plan for shopping: The medina is full of quality textiles, argan oil, leather goods, and spices — and prices are usually much better than Marrakech or Fez. Bring extra room in your bag (and maybe a foldable tote).
  • Slow down: Essaouira is meant to be experienced at half-speed. Leave gaps in your itinerary for wandering, rooftop lounging, or just sitting by the beach with a mint tea in hand.

Marrakech – Culture, Chaos & Christmas Vibes 

After a peaceful few days on the coast, Marrakech hit us like a (beautifully tiled) whirlwind — and honestly? We were ready for it. With its maze-like medina, bold colours, honking scooters, and sensory overload at every turn, this city is a full-on experience.

We arrived on Christmas Day, which made it feel extra surreal. Imagine walking through the souks surrounded by tagines and lanterns instead of snow and sleigh bells. There’s no doubt about it — Marrakech is where you go when you want energy, history, and a bit of organized chaos.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Riad Dar Alfarah, a beautiful riad tucked inside the Marrakech medina — and we genuinely loved it. The location was perfect, the staff were helpful, and the courtyard pool looked lush and serene, even if it was too chilly to use in December. It felt like a calm little oasis in the middle of all the madness.

👉 Book our stay at Riad Dar Alfarah here

Things to Do in Marrakech

But fair warning: scooters fly through these narrow alleys like they own the place, and the exhaust fumes can be intense — especially in the evenings when the crowds thicken. A lightweight scarf or mask might be your best friend if you’re sensitive to smells or smog. Just keep your bag close, stay alert, and embrace the madness.

  • Majorelle Garden, YSL Museum & Berber Museum: These three spots are located right next to each other and make for a beautiful, relaxing break from the medina chaos. The Majorelle Garden is all rich blues and towering cacti — totally photo-worthy. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum gives you a glimpse into the designer’s connection to Morocco, while the Berber Museum offers cultural context and stunning artifacts.

👉 Book skip-the-line entry to all three on GetYourGuide
👉 Or book round-trip transport + tickets via Viator

  • Bahia Palace: Ornate tiles, intricate woodwork, and gorgeous courtyards. It’s one of the most photogenic places in Marrakech and worth visiting early in the day before the crowds hit.
  • Jemaa el-Fnaa Square:The heart of the city — loud, chaotic, and always buzzing. Snake charmers, food stalls, and street performers fill the square by night. We wandered here at least once a day just to take it all in.
  • Saadian Tombs & Jewish Quarter (Mellah): Beautiful tile work and a dose of history. The tombs are compact but very detailed, and exploring the nearby Mellah gives you a different perspective on the city.
  • Hammam & Spa Experience: Whether you go luxe or traditional, this is a must. We didn’t squeeze it in this time, but I’d absolutely book one next visit.
  • Palace-Hopping: Add El Badi Palace to your list if you’re into historic ruins with a grand feel. Not as ornate as Bahia, but still worth a visit.

👉 Browse top-rated hammam experiences in Marrakech on Viator

👉 Or explore spa packages on GetYourGuide

  • Street Food Tour: If you’re feeling adventurous, this is such a fun way to explore the food scene — especially around Jemaa el-Fnaa. We did this one:

👉 Check out the Evening Street Food Tour with Marrakech Food Tours

👉 Or book a top-rated street food tour via Viator here

Where to Eat & Drink in Marrakech

Marrakech is a city where food is theatre — from sizzling tagines to belly dancers and rooftop views, every meal felt like an event. We had a few hits (and a few overpriced misses), but these were the spots that stood out:

  • Comptoir Darna: We spent Christmas dinner here, and it was one of the most memorable nights of the trip. Think red velvet interiors, live music, and belly dancers. The food was solid, but the vibe is what you’re really going for. Tip: Book early — there are two seatings (7 PM and 11 PM) and both fill up fast.👉 Book your table here or check menus
  • Nomad: One of the most popular rooftops in the medina, and with good reason. The view is amazing, and the food is modern Moroccan — tagines, salads, and spiced meatballs with a twist. Perfect for lunch or sunset.
  • Le Jardin: A lush little escape in the middle of the medina. The setting is dreamy (green tile, birds chirping, lanterns everywhere), and the food was fresh and light. We went for lunch after the souks and it hit the spot.
  • Café Clock: A fun, quirky place for breakfast or lunch. They’re known for their camel burger (which we didn’t try), but the Moroccan pancakes and juice were great. Also known for cultural events and storytelling nights.

Fez – Labyrinth Lanes, Ancient Vibes & Leather Tannery Views

After the buzz of Marrakech, Fez felt like stepping into another time. The Fez el-Bali medina is a full-on maze — and I mean that literally. With 9,000+ winding alleys, no cars, and centuries-old buildings crammed shoulder to shoulder, it’s easy to feel like you’ve landed in a living museum.

It was a totally different pace from the rest of our trip — a little more raw, a little more intense, but incredibly rich in history and character. We only had a day and a half here, but we packed in a ton and got a real taste of the city.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Riad Norma, a beautiful riad inside the Fez medina — and it honestly felt like a sanctuary. The location was perfect, the courtyard was lush and peaceful, and the interiors were full of old-world charm. Our room was spacious and elegant, and the staff made us feel so welcome.

👉 Book our stay at Riad Norma here

Things to Do in Fez

  • Get Lost in the Medina (on Purpose): The Fez el-Bali medina is the largest car-free urban area in the world, and yes — it’s exactly as overwhelming and fascinating as it sounds. With over 9,000 alleys, you’ll get lost, spun around, and probably turned around again — but that’s half the fun. We wandered aimlessly for hours, and every corner revealed something new: copper workers, pastry stalls, quiet courtyards, and the occasional donkey barreling through.
  • Visit the Leather Tanneries (Yes, That Smell Is Real): The Chouara Tannery is one of the oldest in the world, and watching the leather dyeing process from one of the surrounding terraces is wild. You’ll likely be invited up for a “free view” — just know a tip or pressure to shop may follow. The smell is… intense. Bring a scarf or take the mint sprig when offered.
  • Al Quaraouiyine University: This is the oldest existing university in the world, founded in 859. Non-Muslims can’t enter the prayer area, but the view through the gates is still worth it. It’s a powerful, historic stop nestled deep in the medina.
  • Bou Inania Madrasa: One of the few religious buildings in Morocco that non-Muslims can enter. The tile work, carved wood, and peaceful courtyard are stunning. It’s compact, but incredibly beautiful and definitely worth a visit.
  • Explore the Souks: Fez’s souks feel different from Marrakech — more local, more lived-in. You’ll pass everything from copper workshops and carpet weavers to bustling food stalls. It’s a bit chaotic, a little gritty, and totally captivating.
  • Visit the Mellah (Jewish Quarter): A quieter part of the city with a rich past. It’s worth a wander, and if you’re interested in Jewish heritage, you can visit the Ibn Danan Synagogue nearby.

Where to Eat & Drink in Fez

Fez’s food scene felt a little more understated than Marrakech or Essaouira — but when you find a good spot, it really lands. These were our favourite places to eat and drink in the city:

  • The Ruined Garden: A peaceful, garden-style restaurant tucked into the medina with beautiful decor and solid Moroccan cuisine. Perfect for lunch or a quieter dinner — it feels like a secret oasis.
  • Fez Café at Jardin des Biehn: Set in a beautiful garden courtyard within a boutique hotel. The setting is the real draw — lush, romantic, and ideal for a relaxed meal. Food is a bit more refined.
  • Fez & Friends: Super friendly service, great prices, and a laid-back, homey vibe. Their tajine and couscous dishes were hearty and flavourful. You’ll likely run into other travellers here — and might leave with new friends.
  • Mom’s Touch: A small, family-run spot with warm hospitality and generous portions. Traditional Moroccan food made with love — just like it sounds.
  • Le Peroke Café Restaurant: Casual rooftop with lovely views and a great mix of Moroccan and international dishes. Ideal for a chill dinner or a late lunch after exploring the medina.

Tip: Locations in the medina can be tricky to find — use Google Maps, but also don’t hesitate to ask your riad for help or directions. Some of the best spots are hidden behind unmarked doors.

Tips for Visiting Fez

  • Brace for the medina maze: Fez’s medina is massive and truly confusing. Getting lost is part of the experience — but if you have somewhere specific to go (like a restaurant or riad), give yourself extra time and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Just be cautious of anyone offering to guide you unprompted — it’s often not free.
  • Be cautious of unsolicited help: There are a lot of “helpful” guys in the medina who will insist on leading you somewhere and then demand a tip. If you do need directions, ask a shopkeeper or someone working in a café.
  • Bring a scarf or mint sprig for the tannery: You’ll need it — trust us.
  • Have cash on hand: Many places in Fez, especially in the medina, don’t take card — including some restaurants and ticketed sites. Always good to keep small bills and coins with you.
  • Stay in the medina, but be prepared to walk: Most riads are deep in the medina and not accessible by car, so expect to walk a few minutes from the drop-off point with your bags. Your riad will likely offer help if you let them know your arrival time.
  • Plan your route out: Whether you’re leaving by train, car, or flight — arrange your transport in advance. The Fez train station is outside the medina and can take 15–20 minutes to reach depending on traffic.
    👉 Book your train tickets in advance at ONCF Note: The ONCF website doesn’t always load outside of Morocco (including in Canada). If that’s the case, try accessing it via a VPN, or book online/in person once you arrive.

Skhirat & Rabat – Coastal Chill, Catching Up with Friends & Ringing in the New Year

After the intensity of Fez, we slowed things down and shifted into full friend-mode. We spent four nights at a beachfront Airbnb in Skhirat with our friends, followed by three more nights at their place in Rabat — and this stretch of the trip was all about relaxing, reconnecting, and soaking in a more local side of Morocco.

We also happened to be here over New Year’s Eve, which made it extra special. It wasn’t a wild night out — more like good food, a few drinks, and watching the waves crash from the terrace. Simple and memorable in the best way.

This wasn’t the tour-heavy part of our itinerary, and honestly, that was the beauty of it. Long meals, ocean views, late-night chats, and a chance to enjoy Morocco at a slower pace — it was exactly what we needed.

Things to Do in Rabat

Rabat is often overlooked by travellers, but it has a quiet charm that makes it totally worth a visit — especially if you’re looking for a more relaxed, local experience. Since we were here with friends, our time was super chill, but we did manage to check out a few highlights:

  • Kasbah of the Udayas: One of Rabat’s most scenic spots. This 12th-century fortress overlooks the Atlantic and is full of winding blue-and-white lanes that give off major Chefchaouen vibes. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and easy to wander without a plan.
  • Andalusian Gardens: Tucked inside the Kasbah, these gardens are lush, quiet, and ideal for a little break from the city buzz. Sit on a bench, sip a juice, and take it all in — it’s a great pairing with the Kasbah visit.
  • Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V: These two historic landmarks sit side by side and are a must if you’re in Rabat. The Hassan Tower is an unfinished minaret from the 12th century, and the mausoleum — with its white silhouette and green tiled roof — is stunning. The guards on horseback outside make it feel extra regal.

Stroll the Medina: Compared to Marrakech or Fez, Rabat’s medina is calm and much easier to navigate. You’ll still find local stalls, spices, and textiles — but without the overwhelm. It’s a great place to shop at your own pace.

Where to Eat in Rabat, Skhirat & Salé

Since we were staying with friends for this part of the trip, most of our meals were home-cooked (and so good). But we did go out a few times — and these were the places that stood out:

  • Boquería Fina: We liked it so much, we went twice. Great drinks, delicious food, and an effortlessly cool vibe. Perfect for a casual dinner or cocktails with friends — this spot had a buzzy, urban energy that really stood out.
  • Little Mamma Agdal: A stylish Italian restaurant in the Agdal neighbourhood. Think pasta, pizza, spritzes, and cute interior design — it felt like a fun night out without trying too hard.
  • Tangerino: Spanish-style seafood and tapas with a sleek interior and waterfront views. A bit more upscale, but the setting is perfect for a relaxed dinner or date night vibe.
  • Le Dhow (The Boat Restaurant): We went here for lunch and loved the setting. It’s literally a restaurant on a docked boat along the Bou Regreg River — with beautiful views and a totally different feel from the medina. The food was decent, but the experience made it worth it.
  • Restaurant La Marsa (Salé): Located just across the river in Salé, this spot was a great lunch stop — good seafood, friendly service, and a more local vibe away from the tourist flow.

Tip: Rabat and its surrounding areas have a surprisingly diverse food scene — from riverside seafood to trendy Italian to Spanish-inspired spots, it’s a great area to mix things up.

Tips for Visiting Rabat & Skhirat

  • Rabat is low-key — and that’s the point: Compared to Marrakech or Fez, Rabat feels quieter, cleaner, and way more relaxed. It’s a nice break from the chaos, so don’t feel pressured to cram your days with activities. This is the place to slow down and breathe.
  • Skhirat is all about the setting: It’s not a place packed with things to do — but if you’re after ocean views, long walks on the beach, and a peaceful reset, it delivers. It’s also a great midpoint if you’re travelling between Casablanca and Rabat.
  • Dining out? Head to Agdal or the waterfront: Rabat’s medina has charm, but the best restaurants we found were in the Agdal neighbourhood or along the Bou Regreg. That’s where the atmosphere and food really stood out.
  • Don’t overlook Salé: Just across the river from Rabat, Salé is super local and way less touristy — and it has a few gems worth checking out (like Restaurant La Marsa). A short taxi or tram ride gets you there in no time.
  • Transportation is easy: Taxis are cheap and fairly straightforward here. You can also use the modern tram system to hop between Rabat and Salé. No need to overthink it — getting around is simple.
  • Perfect for recharging: Whether you’re near the beach or staying in the city, this region is ideal for slowing down between heavier travel days. We spent most of our time with friends, eating good food, and enjoying the pause — and it was one of the most grounding parts of the whole trip.

Day Trip to Tangier

While we were based in Rabat, we took a day trip to Tangier — and it was a great way to sneak in one more Moroccan city without repacking our bags. The Al Boraq high-speed train got us there in just over two hours, and it made the trip feel totally doable.

We spent the day wandering the medina, exploring the American Legation Museum (the first U.S. diplomatic property abroad — very cool), and grabbing lunch at a local seafood spot. Tangier felt different from the other Moroccan cities — more European, a bit breezier, and laid-back in all the right ways.

If you’re staying in Rabat and want a change of scenery without the hassle of an overnight trip, Tangier makes a fantastic day trip.

🛏️ Recommended Hotels in Morocco

From vibrant souks to coastal escapes, Morocco is packed with dreamy places to stay. Here’s a roundup of handpicked hotels by destination — whether you’re seeking barefoot luxury, boutique charm, or budget-friendly gems.

Casablanca – Recommended Hotels

Essaouira – Recommended Hotels

Marrakech – Recommended Hotels

Fes – Recommended Hotels

Rabat – Recommended Hotels

🌍 Final Thoughts: Planning the Perfect Morocco Itinerary

From the windswept beaches of Essaouira to the bustling souks of Marrakech, the maze-like medina of Fez to the relaxed waterfront of Rabat — our time in Morocco was layered, vibrant, and full of contrast.

We didn’t try to see everything, and I think that’s what made the trip so memorable. Each region offered something totally different — and having a mix of busy cities, coastal calm, and time with friends gave the itinerary room to breathe.

If you’re planning your own Morocco itinerary, I’d suggest balancing major cities with slower stops. Take the train, hop between Moroccan cities, and don’t be afraid to wander off-script — some of our favourite moments happened that way.

Whether you’re drawn to Moroccan food, architecture, history, or just want to explore the country’s incredible diversity, this place has a way of surprising you at every turn.

🌟 Planning Your Trip to Morocco?

🧳 Need help packing? Don’t miss my Ultimate Morocco Packing List — it’s everything you’ll need for colourful medinas, coastal getaways, and desert adventures. 🇲🇦

✈️ Also dreaming of Türkiye? You might love my guide: Exploring Türkiye: A Dream 17-Day Adventure — packed with epic experiences, cultural tips, and travel inspiration. 🇹🇷

Wherever your journey takes you, Morocco and Türkiye are two countries that will stay with you forever.

Travel Resources

Planning your next adventure? Here are my top travel resources to help you stay connected, save money, and make your trips smoother. These are the tools I personally use and love!

📱 Stay Connected While You Travel with Airalo

No more scrambling for SIM cards at the airport!

With an Airalo eSIM, you can stay connected from the moment you land — easy, fast, and affordable.

• New to Airalo? 👉 Enjoy 15% off your first eSIM with my link!

• Already an Airalo user? 👉 Get 10% off your next plan.

Setup takes minutes — no physical SIM card needed.
Perfect for navigating new cities, booking rides, checking maps, and sharing all your adventures without crazy roaming fees.

👉 Get Your Airalo eSIM Here & Save!

Manage Your Travel Money

Wise Travel Card – The Best for Foreign Transactions

Avoid high foreign exchange fees and pay like a local with the Wise travel card. Get the best currency conversion rates, withdraw cash affordably, and transfer money seamlessly. Sign up with my referral link and get a small bonus!

👉 Get your Wise card here

✈️ Disclaimer

TiffinTransit is a personal travel blog where I share real experiences, practical tips, and honest opinions based on trips I’ve personally planned and taken.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase or booking through one of these links — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend places, products, or services I genuinely love and think you’ll find helpful.

As always, details like hours, prices, and policies can change — so be sure to double-check the latest info when planning your own trip.