Morocco

Morocco moves from Atlantic surf towns to the medinas of Fes and Marrakech, over the High Atlas and into the Sahara, usually within a single trip. Trains cover the north well; the desert and mountains need a car or a driver. It is well set up for travellers but requires comfort with persistent commerce in the medinas.

Cities

Essaouira

Essaouira is a walled Atlantic port with ramparts, a blue-and-white fishing harbour and constant wind that makes it Morocco's kitesurfing and windsurfing centre. The medina is compact and far less pressured than Marrakech. Seafood grilled at the port is the standard lunch.

Fes

Fes el-Bali is the largest car-free urban area in the world, a medieval medina of 9,000 lanes with working tanneries, brass workshops and the Qarawiyyin, one of the oldest universities anywhere. A guide is genuinely useful on the first day. It is more conservative and less touristed than Marrakech.

Marrakech

Marrakech is built around the Jemaa el-Fna square and a walled medina of souks, riads and courtyard palaces, with the Atlas visible on clear days. It is intense and commercial; a riad stay and an early start make it much more enjoyable. Day trips reach the Ourika valley and the Atlas foothills.

When to go

See all seasons

• Spring: The best all-round window: warm coast, green Atlas, tolerable desert.
• Summer: Over 40°C in Marrakech and the desert; the Atlantic coast stays cool.
• Autumn: Warm and stable, a second peak for desert trips.

Entry & visas

Entry rules for this country aren't published here yet.

Always confirm entry rules with the official source before you book.