Ready for a Moroccan adventure? This 10 Day Morocco itinerary takes you from the bustling streets of Casablanca to the windswept dines of the Sahara Desert to the coastal charm of Tangier. It's a travel experience packed with rich history, stunning scenery, and daily adventures!
Dreaming of an unforgettable Moroccan escape? This 10 day Morocco itinerary is perfect for those who want luxurious accommodations mixed with local culture and traditions.
And, of course, incredible food and wine!
This was my first time in Morocco - and my first time in Africa. I've traveled all over the Americas, Europe, and parts of Asia, and was SO excited for my first travel experience in Africa.
I absolutely loved visiting this vibrant country with its diverse landscapes and rich history and traditions.
And the people were incredibly warm, friendly, and helpful everywhere we went.
If you've ever thought about visiting Morocco, I say without hesitation: do it. It was one of the most memorable places I've traveled to, and I think you will love it, too!
Jump to:
- About this 10 Day Morocco itinerary
- ✈️ Arrival Tips: Touchdown in Casablanca
- Stop 1: Casablanca
- What to do in Casablanca
- Stop 2: Marrakesh – medina magic and tasty tagine
- What to do in Marrakech
- Stop 3: the Sahara Desert
- What to do in the Sahara Desert
- Stop 4: Fes – culture and old world traditions
- What to do in Fes
- Stop 5: Chefhaouen
- Stop 6: Tangier
- What to do in Tangier
- Day 10: Travel day
- Final thoughts on traveling to Morocco
- Frequently asked questions
- More travel guides
About this 10 Day Morocco itinerary
I had the pleasure of traveling with an amazing group of 11 fellow female bloggers to Morocco.
Organized by the amazing trio behind Soul Sisters Travel, this was one of the best group travel trips I have ever taken.
We traveled from the bustling streets of Casablanca to the windswept dunes of the Sahara and the breezy coastal charm of Tangier.
Along the way, we dined like royalty, explored ancient medinas, rode camels into the sunset, and relaxed in some of the most exquisite hotels and riads Morocco has to offer.
And while I won't share our full itinerary here (be sure to check out Soul Sisters Travel for that!), I'm excited to share some of my favorite parts of this trip.
As a side note, while waiting to board my flight from Dallas to Madrid, I met a couple who was about to embark on almost the exact same journey. So this is a great route for both group travel and couples traveling together!
✈️ Arrival Tips: Touchdown in Casablanca
When arriving at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) directly from the US, plan at least one hour to get through customs. If you're arriving from a European layover stop like we did, it won't take that long, but better to plan for more time just in case.
It’s best to pre-arrange a transfer with your hotel or use a reputable service like Careem or a private driver with TripAdvisor reviews.
Taxis are available, but make sure to agree on a price in advance (usually around 300-350 MAD to the city center).
Avoid unofficial drivers and, as always when landing in any airport, keep an eye on your belongings.
Stop 1: Casablanca
Start your Moroccan adventure in Casablanca, the country’s modern, cosmopolitan heartbeat. This city is industrial, bustling, and is the commerce capital of the country.
It’s the perfect launching point for your journey.
For a luxurious resting space for your first nights in Morocco, consider a stay at the Royal Mansour Casablanca or the Four Seasons Casablanca.
After a long journey, you're probably famished. Lucky for you, Casablanca has several amazing restaurants to choose from.
Consider dining at Restaurant Dar El Kaid, Dar Dada La Pergola, Dar Dada, or Restauarant El Gousto.
Fellow design lovers will adore these restaurants for the gorgeous design details alone. Many of them are tucked away in the medina. At some, you’ll be treated to live belly dancing. All offer traditional Moroccan fare, and—of course—refreshingly sweet Moroccan mint tea (also known as Berber Whiskey).
And of course, there's always Rick's Cafe. The Casablanca hot spot is designed after the one made famous in the movie Casablanca (although note that it was not filmed here).
What to do in Casablanca
While many travelers pass through this city quickly, it’s worth visiting the stunning Hassan II Mosque perched over the Atlantic Ocean . This largest mosque in Africa is partially built over the sea, and the area is a mix of French colonial architecture and vibrant seaside vibes.
More of Casablanca’s cultural gems and most popular places to visit include:
- The Corniche (La Corniche) - A scenic beachfront promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and resorts. Perfect for a sunset stroll, people-watching, or enjoying fresh seafood with ocean views.
- Old Medina of Casablanca - Though smaller and less chaotic than other Moroccan medinas, Casablanca’s old city still offers narrow alleys, local markets, and a glimpse into traditional Moroccan life amidst a modern city.
- Mahkama du Pacha - A hidden gem, this historic government building showcases stunning Moorish architecture with carved cedar ceilings, horseshoe arches, and colorful zellige tilework. Visits are often by guided tour, but worth the effort.
- Sacre Coeur Cathedral – a stunning Art Deco cathedral turned exhibition space
- Mohammed V Square and the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) – full of history and European-influenced architecture
It's also wonderful to simply wander local shops for ceramics, brass lanterns, and Argan oil.
✨TIP: Book a private or small group tour of Casablanca to make the most of your time in this city.
Stop 2: Marrakesh – medina magic and tasty tagine
Next, dive into the buzzing energy and vibrant scene of Marrakech. It's about a 3-hour drive from Casablanca.
Marrakech is a popular tourist spot. So you'll find plenty of accommodations at all price points here.
For a luxury stay, consider the ultra-luxurious La Mamounia—a hotel that’s hosted everyone from Winston Churchill to modern-day royalty. I loved our stay at La Mamounia so much, I've got a whole separate feature post about it coming up!
For a more traditional experience consider a stay in one of the many stunning riads of Marrakech. The Riad Kheirredine and the Riad Andallaspa are both exquisite riads known for their high level of customer service.
What to do in Marrakech
Perhaps the most popular thing to do in Marrakech that I loved and think is absolutely worth your while, is exploring the massive Marrakesh medina from Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
Home to over 9,000 alleyways and souks bursting with spices, leather goods, and handcrafted treasures, this medina is a feast for all senses.
By sunset, the Jemaa el-Fnaa square becomes a buzzing open-air festival of storytellers, street performers, and food stalls. The medina is open until late—often until midnight—and is a popular nighttime hub for both locals and travelers.
✨ TIP: I highly recommend booking a guided walking tour and/or food tour in Marrakech. Not only is it easy to get lost within the medina at night, but the local guides are experts at being your first line of defense against the onslaught of vendors who will aggressively try to get you to buy their food or wares.
Other popular places to visit in Marrakech:
- Bahia Palace - A 19th-century palace showcasing exquisite Moroccan architecture, with intricate mosaics and lush gardens.
- Koutoubia Mosque - Marrakech's largest mosque, known for its stunning 77-meter minaret and beautiful gardens.
- Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum - A serene botanical garden with vibrant blue buildings, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, now housing a museum dedicated to his work.
- Ben Youssef Madrasa - An ancient Islamic college renowned for its ornate architecture and historical significance.
Marrakech also has several different Moroccan cooking classes, photo walking tours, and food tours!
Stop 3: the Sahara Desert
One thing that might surprise you is how long the journey is to the Sahara Desert. Depending on your starting point and your end point within the Sahara, it could be as long as a 10- to 12-hour drive.
But trust me—this journey is as much a highlight as the destination.
Almost all Morocco travel itineraries will have you drive through the Tizi n'Tichka pass, winding through the High Atlas Mountains with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and Berber villages.
If time allows, stop at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s starred in “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” It's a pretty cool sight to see in person!
You'll pass through Ouarzazate (Morocco’s “Hollywood”) and enter the magical Draa Valley, a vast ribbon of palm trees running alongside Morocco’s longest river.
By evening, arrive at the stunning Sahara Desert.
There are several desert camps from which to choose, including the Sahara Magic Luxury Camp, Luxury Camp Chebbi, and Luxury Desert Camp. Most include a glam setup with comfy beds, ensuite bathrooms, and lantern-lit dinners.
The Sahara Desert, with its sweeping golden dunes, offers one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth. Be sure to slow down and soak it all in.
What to do in the Sahara Desert
Waking up in the Sahara Desert is a surreal, stunning fantasy. It's like being on Tatoine, but without the womp rats or banthas (hello fellow Star Wars fans).
What's there to do in the Sahara Desert?
- Erg Chebbi Dunes (Merzouga) - Towering up to 150 meters, these iconic golden dunes near Merzouga offer breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can experience camel treks, sandboarding, and overnight stays in desert camps.
- Camel Trekking - A quintessential Sahara experience that I LOVED! Opt for a sunrise or sunset camel trek if you can. The experience is absolutely peaceful and breathtaking.
- Sandboarding - For adventure enthusiasts, sandboarding down the soft dunes provides an exhilarating way to engage with the desert's unique terrain. Just have fun with it!
- Berber Cultural Experiences - Engaging with local Berber communities offers insights into traditional music, dance, and cuisine, enriching the desert journey with cultural depth. There are museums and markets a short drive from most desert camps.
- Stargazing - The Sahara's remote location and clear skies make it an ideal spot for observing constellations and meteor showers, offering a mesmerizing night-time spectacle. Truly one of my favorite moments from this trip was sitting on the sand dunes at night, staring up at the star- and moonlit night sky. Pure magic.
Stop 4: Fes – culture and old world traditions
After taking in one last lingering look at the stunning Sahara Desert, continue the journey to Fes (approximately a 7-hour drive).
It’s a city rich in culture, craftsmanship, and deep history. Home to one of the world's oldest walled cities, it's less flashy than Marrakech but endlessly fascinating.
Here, if you want luxury accommodations, check out the opulent Riad Faraj Suites & Spa. Or, stay at one of the dozens of riads in Fes, including the Riad Ahlam, Riad Salam Fes or the Riad Fes: Relais and Chateaux.
What’s a riad? A riad is a traditional Moroccan house built around a central courtyard or garden, offering a much more intimate and culturally immersive experience than a hotel.
What to do in Fes
Step back in time in Fes, home to one of the world’s oldest medinas that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fes el-Bali is the largest car-free urban area in the world. Its labyrinthine alleys are filled with historic architecture, bustling souks, and vibrant street life. Wander through narrow alleyways filled with artisan shops, tanneries, and centuries-old architecture.
More popular places to visit in Fes include:
- Chouara Tannery - One of the oldest tanneries in the world, Chouara offers a unique glimpse into traditional leather dyeing techniques. Visitors can observe the process from surrounding terraces.
- Al-Attarine Madrasa - Built in the 14th century, this madrasa is renowned for its intricate tilework and cedar wood carvings, exemplifying Marinid architecture.
- Bou Inania Madrasa - A masterpiece of Islamic architecture, the Bou Inania Madrasa features stunning zellige tilework and a serene courtyard, and it's one of the few religious buildings in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors.
- Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate) - Serving as the main entrance to the old medina, this iconic gate is adorned with blue and green tiles and is a popular starting point for exploring Fes el-Bali.
Stop 5: Chefhaouen
From Fes, make your way to Chefchaouen. This dreamy “blue city” is tucked into the Rif Mountains and is an absolute MUST visit place on any Moroccan itinerary.
photo above by photographer Ahajam Soufian
Chefchaouen is arguably the most photogenic town in Morocco. Perfect for a mini photo shoot! Pack a white, yellow, or orange outfit to pop against the bright blue walls.
Great shopping can be found here too, as it's not as crowded and frenetic as the souks in Casablanca or Fes.
Stop 6: Tangier
Then, continue on to end your journey in Tangier, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic.
Tangier is known as a bohemian coastal escape with Spanish and French influence—very different in vibe from Fes or Marrakesh. Think whitewashed buildings, beach breezes, and literary history.
What to do in Tangier
A labyrinth of narrow alleys, the Tangier medina and souks were my favorite of this entire trip. Stunning colorful doors, creative murals, and independent artisans lined these streets, making each spot a true treasure.
More things to add to your Tangier itinerary:
- Kasbah of Tangier - Perched atop the medina, the Kasbah offers panoramic views of the Strait of Gibraltar. This historic fortress houses the Kasbah Museum, showcasing artifacts from Tangier's rich past.
- American Legation Museum - Located in the medina, this museum is housed in the first American public property outside the United States. It celebrates the historical ties between the U.S. and Morocco and features a collection of art and historical documents.
- Caves of Hercules - Situated just outside Tangier, these legendary caves are steeped in mythology. The sea-facing cave opening resembles the shape of Africa, making it a popular photo spot.
- Cap Spartel - This scenic promontory marks the northwestern tip of Africa, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can enjoy stunning views, a historic lighthouse, and nearby beaches.
Day 10: Travel day
The next day, it's time to bid adieu to this amazing African country.
Hotel transfers or a reputable taxi service are the best options for airport transportation. Uber doesn't operate here, but you can request transfers through your hotel. Our one-way ride from our hotel by the sea cost 400 MAD.
For departures from Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport (TNG), aim to arrive 2.5 - 3 hours early, especially for international flights. It took us exactly one hour to slowly snake through the passport control line after checking into our flights.
Final thoughts on traveling to Morocco
This was just a glimpse at some of the magic you can experience in Morocco. There was so much more that we experienced as part of our amazing Soul Sisters Travel itinerary! Be sure to follow the Soul Sisters Travel blog for their future trips and their awesome travel itineraries.
I fell in love with so many aspects of this beautiful country. The people were warm and friendly -- and so helpful. The food was rich with history and tradition. The medinas and souks were vibrant and bustling. And the desert was even more peaceful and stunning as I had imagined.
Morocco has my heart, and I highly recommend visiting these beautiful cities in this diverse African country.
Frequently asked questions
If you're headed to Morocco, here are some FAQs that I've been asked about my trip.
I have an entire blog post dedicated to what to wear in Morocco (coming soon!). In the meantime, while women are not required to wear a headscarf, it’s respectful to wear modest clothing. Cover your shoulders, avoid short shorts. Because of the heat, loose-fitting clothing is best. A light scarf is handy for sun, dust, or temple visits. Maxi dresses, flowy pants, and layers are ideal.
In my experience, yes, especially in tourist-friendly cities. Always stay aware, avoid deserted areas at night, and book reliable transportation.
Street harassment exists but is usually limited to catcalls or comments—ignore them and keep walking. Traveling in a small group or with a reputable guide can enhance safety and comfort.
Moroccan Dirham (MAD). 1 USD ≈ 10 MAD (approximately, and subject to change). Credit cards are accepted in hotels and restaurants, as well as some market stores, but always carry cash for souks and small towns.
Tipping is expected and appreciated. Here are some general guidelines:
Restaurants: 10–15%
Porters: 20–30 MAD
Guides: 100–200 MAD per day
Drivers: 50–100 MAD per day
Salam Alaikum – peace be upon you (hello)
Shukran – thank you
La, shukran – no, thank you (or, as our guide taught us, simply "la, la, la, la" while shaking your head)
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