This Country Is Home to Ancient Desert Fortresses — and a Blue-Washed Town That Looks Straight Out of a Fairytale
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Famous landmarks in Morocco, such as the Bahia Palace in Marrakesh and the ancient Medina of Fez, highlight the country’s fascinating blend of Berber, Arab, and European influences.
Explore Morocco’s rich heritage, from the towering Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, one of the world’s largest mosques, to the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains. Walk through the Roman ruins of Volubilis or admire the fortified Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO site featured in famous films like Gladiator.
We combined Morocco’s most visited landmarks with personal favorites based on historical significance, cultural importance, and ease of access. We considered traveler reviews, local recommendations, and our own experiences. Each location reflects a key aspect of Morocco’s heritage.
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Medina of Fez, Fez

The Medina of Fez is considered by UNESCO as one of the best-preserved ancient city centers in the world. The medina is the original walled city and was founded in the 9th century.
Inside its walls, you’ll find one of the world’s oldest universities. You can stay in centuries-old palaces converted into hotels. These dars and riads may look basic from the outside, but as soon as you enter, you enter a lush world of luxury.
Take a tour of the ancient tanneries where traditional leather goods are made. Then, visit the Mosque and University Kairaouine, one of the oldest educational centers in the world. At night, shop in the night markets for beautiful souvenirs and leather goods.
Travel Tips
- Hire a Local Guide: This walking tour of Fez takes you through the city’s historic streets, visiting important landmarks.
- Visit the Nejjarine Museum: It’s a beautiful, less crowded spot to learn about traditional carpentry and craftsmanship. The museum is in a restored funduq (old caravanserai) at Place Nejjarine.
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Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

The Hassan II Mosque is one of the most visited sights in the country and a must-see landmark. Standing high above the coastal city, it’s hard to miss. You can tour the mosque to learn about its history and the history of Casablanca.
The mosque was built in 1993 and is now one of the largest mosques in the world. When you visit, take plenty of photos of the mosque and the dramatic coastline.
Don’t miss the Hassan II Mosque Museum. This fantastic museum houses a great collection of Moroccan art and artifacts. Try coordinating your trip in the morning to avoid large groups of tourists.
Travel Tips
- Arrive Early: The mosque opens at 9 AM, and it’s the perfect time for photos with fewer tourists around.
- Dress Modestly: If you’re entering the mosque, dress respectfully—no shorts or sleeveless shirts.
- Book a Guided Tour: This highly-rated tour takes you to the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, where a guide will explain its history for 45 minutes.
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Medina of Marrakesh, Marrakesh

The Medina of Marrakesh is an ancient walled city built in the 11th century. For millennia, it was the cultural and political center of the south of the country. Today, it’s one of North Africa’s most visited landmarks full of exciting activities and sights.
Walk through the narrow streets and take the sights, smells, and sounds of the medina. You’ll see vendors selling ornate goods, spics, and even whole animals. Dodge in and out of palaces and museums and take a break at a local cafe for a cup of mint tea.
At night, head to the Jemaa el-Fnaa night market. You’ll see snake charmers, merchants, and live performers, as well as constant surprises. The energy is hard to contain, so bring your camera and prepare for the experience of a lifetime.
Travel Tips
- Bring Cash for Small Purchases: Most vendors only accept cash, so make sure to carry enough dirhams.
- Use a Guide for the Souks: The Medina’s narrow streets can be confusing. I hired a local guide for about $15, and it made navigating the souks much easier.
- Take Breaks at Local Cafes: The medina can get overwhelming with all the activity. I recommend stopping for mint tea at a cafe like Café de France on Jemaa el-Fnaa. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.
Read also: Natural Wonders Around the World
Bahia Palace, Marrakesh

Bahia Palace is one of Marrakesh’s most famous and popular monuments. It was built in the 19th century and features stunning mosaics and gardens that resemble a painting.
Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. When you enter, take a tour of the palace grounds to see stuccos, courtyards, and traditional architecture. From mosaics to symbolic carvings, each section of the building holds new experiences.
Set aside time to rest in the palace courtyard. Moroccan courtyard gardens are peaceful places to spend the day, and Bahia Palace may be one of the best.
Travel Tips
- Arrive Before 9 AM: I recommend getting there right when it opens to avoid the crowds.
- Take a Guided Tour: This guided tour of Bahia Palace takes you through its beautiful halls and gardens, where you’ll learn about its history and Moorish architecture from an expert guide.
- Bring Water and Snacks: The palace grounds are expansive, and walking around can get hot. Bring water and snacks.
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Ourika Valley, Atlas Mountains

Ourika Valley is tucked in the towering Atlas Mountains. This massive mountain chain is one of the highest in Africa. Take a tour from Marrakesh to the foothills of the mountains and see the villages of the valley.
You’ll tour ancient architecture, olive groves, and riverside restaurants. Grab a bite to eat and head out up the trails to see gorgeous views of the valley.
As you climb, you’ll pass cascading waterfalls and look up at snow-capped peaks. If you love hiking, you can spend days exploring the trails and campsites on foot. If you’re a mellow traveler, stay back and visit the small shops and villages at the base.
Travel Tips
- Dress in Layers: The weather in Ourika Valley can change quickly, especially as you hike up the mountain.
- Bring Small Bills for Villages: In the smaller villages, cash is the way to go. I found that many shops only accepted small denominations of dirhams, so make sure to carry enough for snacks and souvenirs.
- Take a Guided Tour: This trip to Ourika Valley takes you through Berber villages, Argan oil cooperatives, and scenic hiking trails with stunning views and waterfalls.
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Hassan Tower, Rabat

Hassan Tower is a 12th-century minaret that is Rabat’s most popular landmark. It was never finished, and to this day, it stands alone as the rest of the city grew around it.
The tower is made from red sandstone and has traditional architecture and carvings. The Almohad Caliphate that once ruled northern Morocco envisioned it to be the largest minaret in the world.
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When you visit, see the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. This striking mausoleum is a huge architectural wonder that still serves the royal family.
Travel Tips
- Visit Early for Fewer Crowds: I got to the Hassan Tower around 8 AM and had the place mostly to myself. It was much quieter before the crowds started arriving around 10 AM.
- Check Out the View from the Tower’s Base: While you can’t go inside, standing at the base of the minaret offers a great perspective of its size and the surrounding city. It’s free and worth a quick stop.
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Al-Hadeem Square, Meknes

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Al-Hadeem Square is Meknes’ historical heart and entrance to the medina. This ancient square is the perfect place to start your tour of the ancient city.
Start by visiting the Dar Jamai Museum to learn about the square’s history. You’ll see ancient relics and furniture and gaze at rare art once owned by royalty. Across the street is the Bab El Mansour Laalej Gate, which features beautiful doors and archways.
At night, the square becomes a night market and entertainment center. You’ll see snake charmers, performers, and people selling everything under the sun.
Travel Tips
- Bring Small Change for the Market: The night market can get busy, and I found it helpful to have small dirhams on hand for snacks or souvenirs.
- Visit the Dar Jamai Museum: Don’t skip the Dar Jamai Museum—it’s full of fascinating history and art. I spent about an hour there, and it gave me great insight into the city’s past. Entrance is 20 dirhams.
Read more: Must-Visit Cities in the World
Volubilis, El Menzeh

Volubilis is a perfectly preserved Roman city that withstood the test of time. For anyone interested in ancient history and the Roman Empire, this is one of the top destinations in the world.
The city of Volubili was once the southwesternmost city in the empire. It was a major center of trade for the empire and surrounding kingdoms. Throughout the centuries, it grew to have a population of between 20,000 and 30,000 people.
When you visit, you’ll walk freely through ancient ruins, spires, temples, and homes. You can enter ancient bathhouses and see original mosaics. Take a guided tour to learn about the city’s history and influence in the region before it was abandoned.
Travel Tips
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The ruins of Volubilis are spread out over a large area, and the ground can be uneven. I recommend wearing sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to walk around a lot.
- Hire a Local Guide: This tour takes you from Fez to Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes, where you’ll visit ancient ruins, enjoy the views, and see historic landmarks like the Arch of Caracalla and the Royal Palace.
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Kasbah de los Udayas, Rabat

The Kasbah de los Udayas in Rabat features ancient architecture and is one of the oldest walled cities in Morocco. It’s located on the coast, overlooking the ancient port.
The kasbah features narrow streets and whitewashed buildings. You’ll pass historical homes and palaces and artisanal shops making products unchanged through the centuries.
Walk through the streets to the Oudayas viewpoint, overlooking the old city walls. You can stay at a historical dar or riad in the kasbah to experience the unique architecture firsthand.
Travel Tips
- Go for a Sunset View: I went to the Oudayas viewpoint around sunset, and the views over the ocean were stunning. The golden hour light made the old city walls look amazing in photos.
- Stay in a Riad for a Unique Experience: If you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere fully, stay in a riad inside the kasbah. Riad Dar El Kebira has beautiful traditional decor and a rooftop terrace with fantastic views.
Read also: Must-See UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Medina of Essaouira, Essaouira

The medina of Essaouira is an ancient walled port city overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It’s one of Morocco’s most popular destinations for culture and history. The city was once a major port for the kingdom and still preserves its maritime past.
Enter the city walls and see the 18th-century fortress of Rempart Mogador. Walk along the walls and take in the views and architecture.
Don’t miss the local Bayt Dakira History Museum, which has a wonderful collection of relics and artifacts. Then, see priceless art at the Gallery Kasbah. Enjoy a warm meal at a local restaurant or rooftop experience in a dar or riad.
Travel Tips
- Visit the Fish Market for Fresh Seafood: If you love seafood, head to the fish market by the port. You can get a fresh grilled fish plate for about 50 dirhams.
- Bring a Hat and Sunscreen: The sun can get intense, especially near the ocean.
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Ouzoud Falls, Ouzoud

The Ouzoud Falls are striking waterfalls located high in the Atlas Mountains. This natural landmark consists of several gorgeous waterfalls cascading down a narrow river valley.
Stay at a local hotel, dar, or riad and book a hiking tour. Climb the steep trails up the valley and witness one of North Africa’s most impressive natural landmarks.
If you can, try picnicking near the falls or stop along the way at a local restaurant or cafe. Spend the day or schedule several trips. This relaxing and impressive natural sight is worth seeing again and again.
Travel Tips
- Wear Good Hiking Shoes: The trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring a Picnic: I packed snacks and enjoyed a peaceful picnic by the falls. There are plenty of spots along the river to sit and enjoy the views while eating.
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Aït Benhaddou, Near Ouarzazate

Aït Benhaddou is an ancient fortified village in the desert known for its red mudbrick structures and dramatic landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a backdrop for iconic films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones, drawing visitors from around the world.
Walk through the winding alleys and explore the kasbahs that once housed caravan traders. Climb to the hilltop granary for panoramic views of the surrounding desert. Don’t miss the chance to visit a traditional Berber home and learn about the village’s rich history from locals.
Travel Tips
- Stay in a Local Guesthouse: For a more authentic experience, stay in one of the small guesthouses in Aït Benhaddou. Prices are usually affordable (around $20-30 per night), and you’ll get to experience traditional Berber hospitality.
- Check for Film Set Tours: If you’re a Game of Thrones or Gladiator fan, ask your guide about film set tours. Some tours will show you the exact spots where iconic scenes were filmed.
- Be Prepared for Steep Walks: The climb up to the granary and other parts of the village can be steep, especially in the heat. Take it slow, and don’t forget to bring water.
Read also: Hiking Trails Around the World
Medina of Chefchaouen, Chefchaouen

The Medina of Chefchaouen is painted in blue and has endless cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. You can stay in a historical riad or dar and relax on a rooftop patio, sipping mint tea and gazing at the stars.
Head out to explore the medina. Take twists and turns up the hill and visit local shops selling artisanal products. Order tajine and olives for lunch and continue your walking journey.
Visit the historical Bab El Ain gate and central Kasbah. Take a tour of the Kasbah to learn about the city’s history. If you love hiking, hike to the nearby hills to get great views of the medina from above.
Travel Tips
- Try the Local Cheese: While you’re in Chefchaouen, don’t miss the goat cheese, which is a local specialty.
- Walk to the Spanish Mosque: For an amazing panoramic view of the medina, hike up to the Spanish Mosque. It takes about 30 minutes.
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