The Best Things to Do in Morocco and Must-See Attractions

Made even more popular by the classic film Casablanca, Morocco remains a global tourist destination. For travellers researching the best things to do in Morocco, the country doesn’t disappoint. It offers a rare mix of culture, scenery, and everyday life that still feels strongly rooted in tradition.

Morocco is found at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Its landscapes range from desert dunes and mountain passes to Atlantic beaches and historic cities. Imperial cities such as Marrakech and Fes draw visitors with their maze-like markets and centuries-old architecture. The Atlas Mountains rise behind fertile valleys and kasbah villages, while the Sahara Desert stretches across the south with sweeping sand dunes.

This guide will introduce you to the experiences that define the best Morocco tours. With its iconic city squares and quiet coastal towns, there’s no dearth of things to do in Morocco. These highlights show why the country remains one of North Africa’s most rewarding destinations.

Top Things to Do in Morocco for First-Time Visitors

Unsure about what to do in Morocco?

Travelling in Morocco rewards the curious and adventurous. Markets spill into narrow lanes, historic cities reveal hidden courtyards, and desert landscapes appear beyond the mountains. For first-time visitors, the best plan is to mix visits to cultural landmarks with natural scenery. You should also make time for spending relaxed, slower moments in smaller towns.

The experiences below represent some of the most memorable places and activities to include in your Morocco itinerary.

Explore Marrakech and Jemaa el-Fnaa

Few places capture the spirit of Morocco like Jemaa el-Fnaa (aka Jemaa el-Fna, Djema el-Fna or Djemaa el-Fnaa). This busy square is located in the heart of the medina quarter, or the old city of Marrakech. For the most part, the square also serves as a marketplace. It’s filled with juice stalls, storytellers, and street vendors during the daytime. By evening, food stands arrive, and the air carries the scent of grilled meat and spices.

The surrounding souks form a maze of small shops selling lanterns, leather goods, and carpets. Rooftop cafés overlook the square and offer a calm place to watch the buzz of activity below. For many travellers, this lively scene is truly one of the most memorable things to do in Morocco.

Visit the Blue City of Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is situated in a mountainous area in Northern Morocco, between Tétouan and Ouazzane. Set in the foothills of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is distinctive for its striking blue streets. Houses, stairways, and alleyways are painted in shades that range from pale sky blue to deep cobalt.

The blue and white town moves at a slower pace than Morocco’s larger cities. Travellers often find themselves spending time wandering the quiet lanes. Here, you’ll also enjoy visiting small cafés and photographing colourful doorways. The relaxed setting in Chefchaouen makes it a welcome pause in a busy travel schedule.

Experience the Sahara Desert

Travelling in Morocco is incomplete without a journey into the Sahara Desert. Many visitors reach the large sand dunes of Erg Chebbi near the village of Merzouga.

Camel treks move slowly across the dunes as the sun begins to set. The colours shift from gold to deep orange as the light fades. Most trips include an overnight stay in a desert camp. With this feature, you’ll savour dinner served under the stars as traditional music echoes across the sand.

Discover Fes and Its Ancient Medina

Fes or Fez is one of the largest, oldest, and most historic cities in the country. It’s a place you need to include in your list of things to see in Morocco. Why? Its old quarter, Fes el Bali, houses thousands of narrow streets and workshops that still follow centuries-old traditions.

Here, travellers see artisans shaping brass trays and weaving textiles. It’s also where you’ll see artisans preparing leather in the famous Chouara Tannery, the largest of its kind. The atmosphere here feels authentic and unchanged by time. Walking the streets of Fes gives you a chance to take a closer look at daily life and craftsmanship in Morocco.

See Aït Benhaddou and the Atlas Mountains

The road between Marrakech and the Sahara crosses the dramatic Atlas Mountains. High passes reveal valleys dotted with the mud-brick villages and terraced farms of the Berbers.

One of the most striking stops is Aït Benhaddou. This fortified village has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. It sits above a dry riverbed. Its clay towers and narrow lanes show the classic design of southern Moroccan kasbahs.

Aït Benhaddou has been the site of numerous films, including Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Man Who Would Be King (1975), Jesus of Nazareth (1977), Marco Polo (1982), The Living Daylights (1987), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), and The Odyssey (2026).

The surrounding scenery makes this region ideal for travellers who enjoy landscapes as much as historic sites.

Relax in Essaouira on the Atlantic Coast

You’ll find Essaouira along Morocco’s Atlantic coast, offering a refreshing contrast to inland cities. The sea breeze keeps temperatures mild, even during summer.

The harbour here is filled with small blue fishing boats. If you love seafood, you’ll find plenty of stalls that serve freshly grilled fish in Essaouira.

Visitors stroll along the old ramparts, watch windsurfers along the beach, or relax in quiet cafés inside the town walls. The calm atmosphere in this port city makes it a favourite stop on any Moroccan journey.

Explore Rabat, Morocco’s Capital

Morocco’s capital, Rabat, provides a calmer urban experience compared to Marrakech or Fes. Wide boulevards and coastal views give this city a relaxed feel.

Historic landmarks such as the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Udayas overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Many travellers enjoy Rabat for its blend of history, gardens, and manageable pace.

Best Time to Visit Morocco

The best time to visit Morocco is usually spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November. During these months, temperatures stay comfortable across most regions. The days are warm enough for sightseeing while the evenings remain pleasant.

• Spring (March to May) brings green valleys and clear mountain views in the Atlas Mountains. It’s a good time for city walks in Marrakech and Fes. Markets feel lively and outdoor cafés stay busy.
• Summer, from June to August, can become very hot in inland cities and desert areas. Temperatures in Marrakech and the Sahara often exceed 40°C. However, coastal towns such as Essaouira remain cooler, thanks to the Atlantic winds. Many travellers choose the coast during this season.
• Autumn (September to November) means generally mild, pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Typical daytime temperatures below 30°C make this time suitable for sightseeing and exploring. However, monitor weather reports for changing temperatures and the possibility of rain in certain places.
• Winter runs from December to February. Daytime weather stays mild in most cities, which makes sightseeing comfortable. The Sahara Desert is particularly appealing in winter because daytime heat is lower. However, winter nights can become cold, so warm clothing is useful. Mountain areas may see snow during winter. This creates beautiful scenery but can limit access to some high passes.

Overall, Morocco remains a rewarding destination any time of the year. So, if you want to maximise your list of things to see in Morocco, any season is a great time to visit.

Practical Tips for Visiting Morocco

Morocco has a welcoming culture, but understanding local customs helps travellers feel more comfortable. Modest clothing is recommended, especially in historic or traditional areas. Lightweight long sleeves and trousers work well in warm weather and respect local norms.

The medinas of cities such as Marrakech and Fes can feel confusing at first. Streets are narrow and often lack clear signs. Many travellers hire local guides for their first visit. A guide explains the layout, introduces artisans, and helps avoid getting lost.

Transportation across Morocco is reliable. Trains connect major cities, including Casablanca, Rabat, and Fes. For desert regions or mountain routes, private drivers and organised tours provide easier access.

Guided tours can simplify longer journeys, particularly for trips between Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara. Drivers take care of the journey so travellers can focus on the scenery and cultural stops along the way.

Morocco is generally safe for visitors when basic precautions are followed. Busy markets require attention to personal belongings, much like any large tourist destination. Respectful behaviour, patience during bargaining, and simple greetings in Arabic or French often lead to warm interactions with locals.

With the help of a reputable online travel agency like Click and Trip, planning a safe, comfortable visit to Morocco comes easy.

It’s Time to Visit Morocco

Few countries offer such a wide range of travel experiences in one place. The best things to do in Morocco combine historic cities, colourful markets, desert landscapes, mountain scenery, and coastal towns.

Travellers can walk through ancient medinas, ride camels across golden dunes, sample fragrant Moroccan cuisine, and watch the Atlantic waves from old stone ramparts. Each region feels different, yet they all share a deep cultural identity.

For those seeking a destination rich in atmosphere and variety, Morocco promises a memorable journey long after the trip ends.

Plan your Morocco trip with us at Click and Trip.