Northern Morocco is a place to get lost in its maze of medinas, browse the wares in its markets, and wander pretty blue-washed streets.
A short 7 Days Northern Morocco From Tanger takes you to many of these must-sees in a compact itinerary. Explore the historic cities of Tanger, Volubilis, Fes, and Meknes in this quick tour.
Marrakech
Marrakech is the perfect place to explore Morocco’s culture, history, and vibrant energy. Take a guided tour of the city’s famous Medina, visit a traditional market, and try local cuisine.
The city’s souks are filled with shops and stalls selling everything from clothing to souvenirs. The central square, Djemaa el Fna, is a hub of activity that seems straight out of a storybook.
Aside from the souks, Djemaa el Fah features snake charmers, henna-tattoo artists, and street food vendors. It is also home to several tanneries where locals hone their skills and create leather hides for bags, shoes, and belts.
Fes
Fes is a bustling and fascinating city, rich with culture and history. This ancient city is a must-visit on any Morocco itinerary.
One of the best things to do in Fes is to visit the medina. This maze-like neighborhood is home to towers of spices, tanneries, and artisan workshops.
While it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors, it’s well worth it to spend a day exploring this historic town. There are many highlights to this area, including the Blue Gate of Boujloud and the Fez Cafe restaurant.
For a spectacular view of the city, climb up to the rooftop of Medersa el-Attarine, the oldest medersa still in existence. This historic landmark has a beautiful mosaic-covered courtyard and a minaret that offers sweeping views of the medina below.
Meknes
Meknes, the capital of Morocco’s former Alaouite dynasty, is a delightful and laidback city with an abundance of historical sights to see. It is also a great base to visit the nearby ruins of Volubilis.
The mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is a must-see attraction, located in the heart of Meknes. It is opulently decorated and has been used as a place of worship for Muslims since the 17th century.
Another notable Meknes landmark is the monumental gateway of Bab Mansour, overlooking Hedim Square. Standing around eight meters tall, this stunning gate is adorned with exquisite mosaics and colored ceramics.
A popular thing to do in Meknes is to take a caleche ride, a horse-drawn carriage that takes tourists through the city streets. This is a pleasurable experience and one that adds an extra layer of romance to your trip.
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen, also known as the blue city, is a picturesque medieval town in Morocco. Its steep narrow streets are dominated by white and indigo limewashed buildings with intricately decorated doorways.
The town is also home to a number of little bazaars that sell local crafts and wares. Wandering through these little markets is a fun and unique experience!
You can also visit the old medina on a Monday or Thursday when farmers from the surrounding Rif Valley come down to the streets to sell their products.
There are many accommodation options in Chefchaouen, from hotels to riads (traditional Moroccan homes). Staying in a riad is the best way to truly experience this stunning town and immerse yourself in Moroccan culture.
Asilah
A sleepy fishing town just an hour south of Tangier, Asilah is a must for anyone looking to see Morocco’s more chilled-out, seaside life. It’s also a great destination to explore during the summer months as it hosts a cultural festival with concerts, design exhibitions and poetry readings.
The town has a lot to offer from the restored medina and its vivid shades of blue paint to its stunning beaches, and is a great place to stop off when on a tour of northern Morocco. Take your time to explore this historic city with a local guide who will be able to share their knowledge about the region.
Despite its popularity, Asilah remains a quiet, unspoiled example of a traditional Moroccan town that offers a welcome escape from bustling Marrakech or Fes. It’s a great place to enjoy the sea breeze and typical cafes without being overwhelmed by tourists.
