6 Day Morocco Itinerary: Imperial Cities & Blue Pearl

Your Morocco trip begins with arrival at Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport, where your private driver will welcome you. Depending on your arrival time, you'll transfer directly to your hotel in the city or begin exploring this fascinating port city where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic. Tangier's unique position at Africa's northern tip has made it a melting pot of cultures and a haven for artists, writers, and adventurers throughout history.

Begin your exploration in the historic Kasbah (fortress) perched high above the city, offering spectacular views of the Strait of Gibraltar where you can often see Spain on the horizon. Wander through the maze-like streets of the old medina, where whitewashed buildings house vibrant markets, artisan workshops, and hidden cafés. Visit the American Legation Museum, the first American public property outside the United States and now showcasing the long relationship between the countries, along with fascinating exhibits on Paul Bowles and other American writers who made Tangier home.

In the afternoon, stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade and explore the Grand Socco (main square), where locals gather and the modern city meets the old medina. Consider visiting Café Hafa, an iconic tiered café perched on the cliffs that has served mint tea to visitors since 1921, including cultural figures like Jack Kerouac and the Rolling Stones. As evening approaches, enjoy a seaside dinner featuring fresh Mediterranean seafood and traditional Moroccan flavors, perhaps at one of the restaurants overlooking the bay. Return to your hotel for a restful night before continuing your journey tomorrow.

After breakfast at your Tangier hotel, meet your driver for the scenic journey to Chefchaouen, the famous "Blue Pearl" nestled in the Rif Mountains. The approximately 2-hour drive takes you through changing landscapes, from coastal plains to dramatic mountains, with opportunities to stop at panoramic viewpoints along the way. As you approach Chefchaouen, you'll catch your first glimpse of this enchanting blue-washed town set against the dramatic mountain backdrop.

Upon arrival, check into your riad or hotel in or near the medina before beginning your exploration of this uniquely photogenic town. Chefchaouen's distinctive blue-painted buildings create an otherworldly atmosphere as you wander through its winding streets and stairways. The exact origin of the blue painting tradition is debated – some say it was introduced by Jewish refugees in the 1930s, others that it keeps mosquitoes away or symbolizes the sky and heaven – but the mesmerizing effect is undeniable.

Start your exploration at Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the main square dominated by the red-hued kasbah and Grand Mosque. The square is lined with cafés and restaurants, perfect for

Start your exploration at Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the main square dominated by the red-hued kasbah and Grand Mosque. The square is lined with cafés and restaurants, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. Visit the Kasbah Museum to learn about the region's history and enjoy panoramic views from its gardens and tower. Then wander through the enchanting medina, where every turn reveals new shades of blue and charming corners to photograph.

In the afternoon, consider a short hike to the Spanish Mosque, perched on a hill overlooking the town. The 30-minute walk rewards you with spectacular views of Chefchaouen nestled among the mountains, especially beautiful at sunset. Alternatively, explore the medina's many artisan workshops, where you can watch craftspeople creating traditional Moroccan goods. Chefchaouen is known for its handwoven blankets, carpets, and woven baskets, along with locally-made goat cheese that's a regional specialty.

As evening falls, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at one of the restaurants near the main square, perhaps sampling local Rif Mountain specialties. The relaxed pace of Chefchaouen offers a perfect contrast to the energy of Tangier and serves as an ideal transition before continuing to bustling Fez tomorrow. Return to your accommodation for a peaceful night's rest surrounded by the quiet mountain atmosphere.

Begin your day with breakfast at your Chefchaouen accommodation, perhaps followed by an early morning walk to catch the soft light illuminating the blue streets before they fill with visitors. This is an ideal time to capture photographs and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the town awakening. Consider visiting any areas of the medina you didn't explore yesterday or purchasing last-minute souvenirs from local artisans.

Mid-morning, meet your driver for the journey to Fez, the intellectual and cultural heart of Morocco. The approximately 3.5-hour drive takes you through diverse landscapes, including portions of the Middle Atlas Mountains and fertile agricultural regions. Along the way, you might stop at Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco. This UNESCO World Heritage site features impressive mosaics, triumphal arches, and ancient olive presses that showcase the region's importance during Roman times. A guided tour helps bring the ancient city to life as you learn about daily life in this distant outpost of the Roman Empire.

Continue to the imperial city of Fez, arriving in the afternoon. After checking into your riad within the ancient medina, take an orientation walk with a local guide to begin understanding the layout of this complex medieval city. Unlike Chefchaouen's compact center, Fez medina contains over 9,000 narrow streets and alleyways – a labyrinth that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Your guide will help you understand the basic organization of the medina, pointing out major landmarks and thoroughfares that will help you navigate during your stay.

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at your riad or at a traditional restaurant in the medina, sampling classic Fassi cuisine known for its sophisticated flavors and subtle spicing. Listen for the atmospheric call to prayer echoing across the ancient city as you settle into what many consider Morocco's most authentic imperial city. Rest well in preparation for a full day of exploration tomorrow.

After breakfast at your riad, meet your specialized Fez guide for a full day exploring this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage site. Fez is considered the most complete medieval city in the Arab world, with its labyrinthine medina virtually unchanged since the 13th century. Today's immersive experience will take you deep into its history, culture, and living traditions.

Begin with a visit to the magnificent Bou Inania Madrasa, a masterpiece of Marinid architecture featuring intricate zellige tilework, cedar wood carvings, and elaborate stucco. Continue to the Al-Attarine Madrasa near the spice and perfume market, another stunning example of medieval Islamic architecture. Your guide will explain the historical significance of these religious schools and their role in Fez's reputation as a center of learning. Walk to the famous Al-Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 CE and considered the world's oldest continuously operating university, where you can glimpse its historic library (renovation permitting).

As you navigate through the medina's artisan quarters, witness traditional craftsmanship that has been preserved for centuries. Visit the mesmerizing tanneries where leather is processed using methods unchanged since medieval times, offering one of Morocco's most iconic (and aromatic) sights. Explore workshops where artisans create intricate ceramics, metalwork, and textiles. Your guide will facilitate meaningful interactions with craftspeople, explaining techniques passed down through generations.

After lunch at a traditional restaurant in the medina, continue your exploration with a visit to Nejjarine Square with its beautiful fountain and wood museum housed in a former caravanserai. Explore the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) with its distinctive architecture and important synagogue, testament to Morocco's multifaith heritage. Throughout the day, your guide will point out hidden architectural gems, secret doorways, and local specialties that most visitors miss.

In the late afternoon, consider visiting one of the rooftop terraces or surrounding hills for panoramic views of the entire medina spread below. Return to your riad to relax before dinner, perhaps enjoying a special meal at one of Fez's renowned traditional restaurants, where classic Moroccan dishes are served in elegant surroundings. After a full day of exploration, you'll have a deeper appreciation for why Fez is considered Morocco's cultural and spiritual heart.

After breakfast and checking out of your Fez accommodation, meet your driver for the journey to Rabat, Morocco's capital city. The approximately 3-hour drive takes you through fertile agricultural regions and changing landscapes. Depending on your interests, you might stop at the historic city of Meknes, another of Morocco's four imperial cities, to see its impressive gates and the massive granaries built by Sultan Moulay Ismail.

Upon arrival in Rabat, you'll immediately notice the contrast with Fez. While still housing important historical sites, Rabat offers a more organized, spacious atmosphere with wide palm-lined boulevards, clean beaches, and an elegant blend of Islamic and French colonial architecture. After checking into your hotel, begin exploring this sophisticated capital that perfectly balances tradition and modernity.

Start at the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas, a blue and white walled fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Bou Regreg River. Wander through its charming streets reminiscent of Chefchaouen, visit the Andalusian Gardens, and perhaps enjoy mint tea at the kasbah café with panoramic views. Continue to the impressive Hassan Tower, an incomplete 12th-century minaret standing alongside the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Moroccan architecture where two kings are entombed. The contrast between the ancient tower and contemporary mausoleum symbolizes Morocco's bridging of past and present.

In the afternoon, explore the compact medina of Rabat, less touristy and more relaxed than those in Fez or Marrakech, offering an authentic glimpse into everyday Moroccan life. Visit the Chellah, an atmospheric complex containing Roman ruins and a medieval necropolis now inhabited by storks nesting atop ancient minarets. If time permits, consider visiting the Villa des Arts or the excellent Archaeological Museum to gain deeper insight into Morocco's diverse heritage.

As evening falls, stroll along the Corniche waterfront promenade or enjoy the sunset from the kasbah viewpoint. For dinner, sample Rabat's excellent restaurants, which range from traditional Moroccan to contemporary international cuisine, reflecting the capital's cosmopolitan character. Return to your hotel for a restful night before your final day in Morocco.

After breakfast in Rabat, check out of your hotel and meet your driver for the short journey to Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic hub. The drive of approximately 1.5 hours takes you along the Atlantic coast. Upon arrival, you'll immediately sense Casablanca's distinctive character – a cosmopolitan metropolis that blends Moroccan traditions with strong French influences and contemporary urban energy.

Your exploration of Casablanca centers around the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors and a spectacular architectural achievement. Completed in 1993, this monumental structure features the world's tallest minaret and intricate craftsmanship that combines traditional Moroccan design with modern engineering. The mosque's dramatic position overlooking the Atlantic creates a stunning backdrop, while its prayer hall can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. A guided tour reveals the extraordinary details of its construction, including hand-carved stone and wood, elaborate zellige tilework, and massive titanium doors.

After visiting the mosque, explore Casablanca's unique urban character with a drive along the picturesque Corniche waterfront boulevard and through the elegant Anfa neighborhood with its upscale villas. Stop at Mohammed V Square to admire the grand French colonial architecture surrounding this historic plaza. For a glimpse into the city's artistic side, consider visiting the Villa des Arts, housed in a beautiful Art Deco building and showcasing contemporary Moroccan art.

Depending on your departure time, enjoy lunch at one of Casablanca's excellent restaurants, perhaps sampling Moroccan-French fusion cuisine that reflects the city's multicultural character. The Central Market provides a lively setting to witness everyday Moroccan life away from tourist centers, while the Quartier Habous (New Medina) offers more organized shopping opportunities for last-minute souvenirs.

In the afternoon, transfer to Casablanca's Mohammed V International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your 6 day Morocco itinerary through the country's fascinating northern cities. With memories of blue mountain towns, ancient medinas, elegant capitals, and Atlantic vistas, you'll take home a multifaceted understanding of Morocco's rich cultural heritage and dynamic present.