Best Things to Do in Morocco: Jemaa el-Fnaa, Erg Chebbi & Ultimate Explorer's Guide

Morocco pulls you in with busy market towns, huge mountain ranges, then wide stretches of desert sand - mixing old Berber roots with today's charm. Skip the usual paths; try lively bazaars or quiet seaside routes instead - the top spots here give all kinds of things to explore, no matter your pace. We're breaking down real experiences across the country, pointing out key sights, lesser-known corners, also handy advice so your trip feels fresh, not forced.

Explore Iconic Medinas

Morocco's old city centers are where daily life thrives - crowded, historic spots recognized by UNESCO. At night, Marrakech's main plaza hums with performers telling tales, acrobats flipping, and vendors frying up street eats. In Fez, workers still tan animals the traditional way, soaking them in bright natural dyes. Up in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen's painted blue lanes offer a peaceful retreat, perfect for slow walks through local Berber culture.

Begin in Marrakech - known as the Red City - where quiet inner gardens sit behind busy markets full of spices, lights, and argan oil. Head to Fez el-Bali, home to the biggest walkable old town on Earth; it gives you sights like the Chouara Tannery plus historic schools such as Bou Inania. According to researcher E. Willahan, who looked at travel trends during colonial times, French rule in the 1930s kept places like Fez frozen in time through strict rules meant to make them feel "authentically foreign," turning ancient neighborhoods into scenic stages for tourists chasing deep cultural moments ("The Western Tourist's Quest for Meaningful Experiences in Morocco," 2014). Then there's Chefchaouen - a spot for trekking through Talassemtane National Park, where cedars grow near falling water, ideal for travelers wanting less typical Moroccan destinations.

Marvel at Casablanca's Architecture

Casablanca beats like Morocco's busy hub, mixing old French flair with striking Islamic design near the ocean breeze. Right on the country's west side, this lively place pulls visitors in through its mix of past, present, and seaside charm. Since most overseas planes land here, it works great as a starting spot to explore further into Morocco - city energy meets deep-rooted tradition.

The standout is still the Hassan II Mosque - one of Earth's biggest sacred spots - finished in '93 following seven years' work by more than six thousand craftspersons. Instead of a fixed cover, it's got a sliding roof that opens the worship space to the sky. Rising along the shore, its 210-meter tower - the highest on the continent - cuts through the cityscape, sending out call-to-prayer echoes each day at five set hours. Visitors who aren't Muslim can join walk-throughs spotting dazzling mosaic tiles in electric blue and kelly green, deeply carved cedar patterns showing starry themes, even a see-through section underfoot revealing waves rolling beneath, hinting at spiritual depth

Tours come in several languages, exploring clever designs such as the moving roof system or quake-proof base - fitting 25,000 inside while holding up to 80,000 more outside on open plazas. Ablution areas include 41 water spouts along with warm stone flooring, reflecting Morocco's deep-rooted skill in intricate patterns shaped over generations. Each session lasts half an hour, ideally reserved ahead through trusted websites instead of walk-ups; they reveal meaningful details about modern mosque design ordered by King Hassan II.

Beyond the mosque, you'll find Casablanca's wide streets packed with 1920s Art Deco spots - check out the graceful Wilaya structure along with the Clock Tower tucked in that stylish zone. Walk the Corniche to see tall modern buildings standing beside old-world fronts, offering sharp city panoramas. Then head to Quartier Habous, a reimagined medina built in the '30s featuring pale archways, lush Spanish-style greenery, plus quiet inner courtyards. Local cafés grill sardines on open flames, serving them up with sweet mint tea - a taste of traditional Morocco buzzing within today's city life.

Food fans head to Central Market for tagine spices, olives, or sugary treats from small crowded stalls - meanwhile, Rick's Café, linked to the classic Casablanca film, offers Moroccan-style meals with live piano tunes in a restored 1930s home. Nearby, Ain Diab's coast draws people into Atlantic waves, good for new surfers or peaceful evening walks, mixing city vibes with ocean peace. For those interested in heritage, the Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Mellah dives into ancient Sephardic traditions that helped shape the nation.

This coastal town's perfect for kicking off your trip across Morocco - catch a fast train to Marrakech in under three hours, while Fez is roughly four hours away. Head out briefly to see El Jadida's old Portuguese water tank, a UNESCO place lit up by cool shafts of sunlight - you won't need much travel time. Move around by small cab or on foot, and you'll find Casablanca full of surprises - busy streets sit right beside calm corners - giving a real feel for today's Morocco

Hike the Stunning Atlas Mountains

The High Atlas Mountains slash across central Morocco, jutting up fast from dry edges to icy summits that show the country's wild heart. Instead of blending smoothly, they split the shore lowlands from the Sahara, serving routes ranging from calm walks in valleys to tough climbs - perfect no matter your shape. Stretching more than 1,000 km, this range holds tight clusters of Berber homes, step-like farms, and clear rushing waterways, pulling travelers into deep experiences among age-old Amazigh scenery.

Imlil is the main spot to start climbing Jbel Toubkal - the tallest mountain in North Africa, standing at 4,167 meters - with most people taking a two-day route that begins on mules through walnut tree areas and old stone farms. Paths go by Refuge Nelder, located at 3,200 meters, where hikers sleep one night before tackling steep rocks leading up to wide-open sights including Tizi n'Test and far-off Marrakech. Bright blooms pop up in spring, snowy patches stay through summer, making the trip more vivid; meanwhile, cold months bring skiers to Oukaïmeden, the only place in Morocco offering basic lift access tucked inside cedar woods.

For lighter hikes, check out Ourika Valley close to Setti Fatma - waterfalls tumble down, paths run beside streams under shady argan trees; here, small groups show how they press oil from nuts chewed by goats. Instead of quick trips, try longer loops such as the Toubkal Circuit: it connects isolated villages, letting you stay with Amazigh families who serve hot tagines loaded with lamb and plums - afterward, unwind in a warm hammam bath that soothes tired muscles. Locally trained guides help keep travel respectful, telling tales about mountain spirits while teaching ways to hike without harming nature.

Venturing south, the Anti-Atlas near Tafraoute grabs attention with wild-looking granite rocks splashed in bright pinks, blues, or yellows - painted starting in 1984 by French artist Jean Verame, turning the area into a giant outdoor exhibit nestled between almond groves and palm-filled oases. Walking trails lead through the Ameln Valley's nut farms, best seen during February when clouds of pink petals blanket the trees; people here gather them to sell abroad. Not far off, the Academy Ticket spot protects uncommon argan forests, where wandering herders live alongside creatures such as the North African agama lizard.

In the Middle Atlas, Ifrane feels like a mountain escape - think calm lakes, furry animals darting around, trails lined with thick woods. Instead of crowds, you get quiet walks leading up to the rocky curve known as God's Bridge. Skip the usual spots; try Azrou's cedar forest, where ancient trees shade family picnics and curious monkeys swing nearby. Each trail tells its own story - not just steps uphill but moments tied to local life, whether watching weavers at work or lying back under skies full of stars.

Seasoned trekkers love routes such as the Five Valleys Journey - a full-week hike across Imnane, Assif, along with Rhir valleys - where you'll see ancient agadir granaries, old water channels from Roman eras. Bring clothing in layers - it can change fast out there; solid shoes help on rocky bits; carry a refillable water system since streams up high let you top off. Guides based in Imlil sell complete deals that include pack animals for luggage, helping energetic visitors tap into the High Atlas mix of challenge and history.

Venture into the Sahara Desert

Morocco's vast desert spreads wide - a wild, endless space where golden dunes shift under star-filled skies, carved only by wind and age. Past Merzouga sits Erg Chebbi, an entry point to this untouched land; there, camels move slowly across sunlit slopes as evening comes, washing the scene in crimson while shadows creep over sand. Trips usually take two or three hours, finishing at warm tent camps made for ease - or traditional Berber halts hidden among the dunes. There, under a bright arc of galaxy light, local herders play stringed ginbari instruments, spinning stories about old trade lines their ancestors followed through these very sands.

Spending nights there pulls you straight into real desert living - Berber families brew mint tea by flickering flames, then bring out rich tagines grilled on charcoal, loaded with soft camel meat, ripe dates, and tangy preserved lemons. Instead of just staying put, hop in a 4x4 leaving from Merzouga to push further into roaming camps where you'll spot dark goats climbing argan trunks and masked Tuareg clans looking after sun-charged shelters. When morning rolls in, ride a camel at daybreak for quiet moments as sunrise paints the sands gold, shaping wave-like ridges best seen from high up; if you're keen, sign up for a hot-air balloon trip that floats you over this surreal stretch of land.

Southwest of Merzouga sits Ouarzazate - called Morocco's Hollywood - noticed for old desert forts and the U.N.-protected Ait Benhaddou, a walled town made of dried clay towers standing tall among green palms near the Draa River. This centuries-old fortress, built around the 1000s, appeared in hits such as Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, also Game of Thrones where it played Yunkai, its winding paths and walls bringing scenes straight out of medieval tales. Walking tours check out Taourirt Kasbah, a sprawling palace full of carved stucco designs, today part of Atlas Film Studios where leftover gear from Lawrence of Arabia remains tucked away.

Following the journey, Dades Gorge winds through red rock faces, perfect for walking narrow passages or scenic drives spotting strange trees stuck on steep sides. Not far off, Todra Gorge funnels the river between towering dark cliffs - great for climbing, offering secured paths no matter your skill level, all while palm groves and local mountain towns dot the scene. Close by, the Valley of Roses near Kalaat M'Gouna explodes in soft pink every spring, kicking off a yearly festival where locals turn thousands of flower pounds into scented water, fragrances, and sweet treats, mixing marches, songs, plus open samples honoring indigenous culture.

Thrill lovers boost their trip by riding quads over the rougher dunes of Erg Chigaga - smaller yet more intense. Instead of just watching, they slide on boards down slopes nearly 150 meters high. Or they zip through salty desert stretches near Chigga Oasis in fast buggies. At Meski, natural hot pools offer a relaxing soak under shady palms. Meanwhile, out in Erfoud, explorers dig up fossils - trilobites that formed half a billion years ago when oceans covered the land. To see these top spots in Morocco, set aside 3 to 5 days starting from Marrakech, driving past Tizi n'Tichka Pass. Break the journey with stays in Dades or Skoura, where vines spill colorfully over quiet guesthouses.

Simple tricks make it better: go with eco-friendly guides who help village groups, bring warm clothes for cold desert evenings near 5°C, and also carry a flashlight to see stars you'd never spot back home. Water carriers, strong sunblock, plus shawls keep dust off during storms - book early to get perfect spots by dusk. A must-do trip ever, the Sahara shows real Morocco - the quiet, the kindness, how wild beauty feels under open skies.

Relax on Essaouira's Atlantic Coast

Essaouira's pale walls and working harbor lead to breezy shores perfect for kiteboarding, also fish caught daily off docks. Old Portuguese fortifications surround shops hawking Gnaoua crafts, linked to a famous yearly sound event. Strolling atop battlements gives wide sea views; not far, small groups make trinkets from fragrant Thuya timber.

This chill spot's perfect when you're done exploring the desert - try riding camels along sunlit dunes or eating hot sardines off the grill. Rated high for cool beach energy, it draws crowds who love surfing, lounging, or just unwinding by the sea

Discover Imperial Cities' Palaces

Morocco's royal hubs - Marrakech, Fez, Meknes, Rabat - are packed with lavish homes showing off ancient rule. The Bahia Palace in Marrakech shines bright, made back in 1866 with 150 chambers full of carved plaster, water jets, and green spots. Over in Meknes, the tomb of Sultan Moulay Ismail sparkles thanks to golden-tiled walls. Meanwhile, Rabat's Kasbah of the Udayas sits high above the ocean, holding peaceful Spanish-style yards.

Fes's old palace doors suggest grandness inside - but regular folks can't go in. Still, these spots show how Moroccan design shifted from Saadian times into Alaouite rule. Experts say they mattered for commerce paths stretching to Europe and deeper across Africa.

Savor Culinary Workshops and Markets

Morocco's food comes alive through cooking workshops - try tagine lessons in Marrakech or shaping couscous by hand in Fez. Stalls pile high with saffron, olives, and spicy harissa; haggling here is just part of the deal. Along Essaouira's harbor, fresh sardines hit hot grills. Up in the High Atlas, small villages share bites of local goat cheese.

Shahzeb Shaikh, SimCorner founder, notes, "Understanding local symbols like intricate zellige tiles while traveling unlocks deeper cultural connections, much like seamless connectivity enhances every souk haggle." Workshops at spots like Café Clock teach baghrir pancakes, enriching Morocco activities to do.

Attend Vibrant Festivals and Events

Morocco comes alive with events where music meets tradition and crops get celebrated. Over in Essaouira, the Gnaoua gathering stuns crowds using beats that trace back to West Africa - big names show up every year. Meanwhile, Marrakech hosts a movie event highlighting films from across the Arab world. Up in the Atlas Mountains, people gather at Imilchil for pretend wedding ceremonies that bring different groups together.

Time your trip around the Fes Sacred Music Festival - or check out Timgad's side happenings. These events show real culture at Moroccan destinations.

Wander Volubilis Roman Ruins

Near Meknes, you'll find old Roman ruins from around 200 AD - Volubilis, now a protected spot covered in olive trees. Broken columns sit beside colorful floor art, left behind by ancient settlers. Grand stone gateways still stand, showing off past power, while birds build nests on top. Churches turned to rubble whisper stories of empire times. Visit nearby Moulay Idriss, home to a sacred Muslim shrine most locals deeply respect.

This ancient site has cool walkways plus places to eat outdoors - total opposite of the busy medina. A top pick for anyone into old stories, one of Morocco's key stops.

Stay Connected with SimCorner eSIM

Wandering around Morocco? You'll need solid internet to handle old city streets or lock in hiking deals. Instead of hunting for Wi-Fi, grab a SimCorner eSIM - fires up fast with 5G wherever you go, even deep into desert zones or coastal breaks. Check out the full lowdown on their Morocco page: pick a plan that fits quick getaways just as well as epic one-month journeys.

You can grab a SIM - though eSIMs skip lines so Google Maps gets you to secret spots fast, or grab a physical SIM Card from SimCorner. Snap sunset views on the dunes or treasures from bustling markets, no hassle. As Shahzeb Shaikh says, "stay connected and spread Morocco's vibe freely". Explore top Moroccan destinations stress-free instead.

FAQs: Top Things to do in Morocco

What's worth checking out in Morocco if you're visiting for the first time?

Visit Marrakech's old town if it's your first trip - try desert rides on camels, then hike through mountain trails for culture plus wild scenery. Check out coastal spots like Essaouira and peek at Fez leather yards to get a real feel of things you can do here. Plan around ten to two weeks, sleep in traditional guesthouses to keep it local; go during autumn or early spring so it's not too hot

What's the ideal moment for activities in Morocco?

From March through May, plus September into November, temperatures stay comfy - great for walking trails or exploring old city areas. Summer's heat hits hard inland, yet works fine for seaside hangs. Winter brings cold to higher spots. Events such as Gnaoua happen at just the right times if you want a real feel of Moroccan culture

What's the ideal trip length for seeing Morocco's most famous spots?

About 10 to 12 days covers the basics: spend 3 days in Marrakech, 2 in Fez, 2 exploring the Sahara, 2 along the coast - then toss in travel time. If you've got 14 or more days, slide in Volubilis or head into the Anti-Atlas. Smart route plans hit all key spots across Morocco without feeling packed.

Is Morocco safe for solo tourists?

Yep, it's doable - if you play it safe. Stick to busy visitor zones instead of wandering off. Hire only certified local guides when exploring. Cover up a bit more while walking through old city markets. Female visitors often say they felt comfortable there. Getting an eSIM helps stay connected during surprises. Lively spots across Morocco are open to solo trips anytime

What should you bring for things to see in Morocco?

Wear layers when temps change, cover up at mosques, grab tough shoes for trails. Sunscreen's a must - don't forget it. Bring a refillable bottle instead of plastic ones. Use an eSIM or local SIM so maps work fast. A light scarf blocks wind or sand if needed. Smart packing makes every Moroccan spot way more fun