North Africa – World Footprints

The 5 Most Breathtaking Attractions in Morocco

It’s hard to imagine a more versatile and exuberant land that is filled with all kinds of experiences than Northern Africa. With piles of treasures, dozens of snake charmers, and endless glasses of flavorful mint tea, there’s no better place to immerse yourself into the vibrant mix of African and Arab worlds than in Morocco. Enjoy the mesmerizing landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and take a step back in time as you travel along ancient coastal villages and fairytale-looking forts. No wonder Morocco has been enchanting artists of all kinds for decades – it’s like a dream come true!

Marrakesh Medina

This is probably the most iconic part of Morocco that draws thousands of tourists who want to get the most authentic feel of the country. Enter the old city through Djemma el-fna Square, a vast plaza that is filled with hundreds of stall vendors, snake charmers, traditional musicians, acrobats and artists of all kinds. It seems that half of the city goes through this plaza during the day, mingling with tourists while having as much fun exploring the stalls as the visitors of the city. Medina itself is also a spectacular experience. You’ll get to explore maze-like alleyways and dozens of loud shops. This is where the crazy and vibrant local life can be observed at its finest.

Oudaias Kasbah

Head to the very heart of the city to the quaint and peaceful Rabat’s Oudaias Kasbah. It seems like an entirely different planet with almost no sounds and loud music that accompanies the hustle and bustle of most big cities. This old fortress boasts some of the most spectacular white-and-blue houses that look truly surreal against the bright skies of Morocco. It is definitely the prettiest district of the capitol and a not-to-miss photography destination.

Volubilis

History buffs will be ecstatic to visit these amazing-looking Roman ruins. This is among the top tourist attractions in Morocco which boasts remarkable mosaics, temple remnants, and tumbled columns that stand as a reminder that all things must end and even the greatest of empires don’t last forever. It’s a hilltop location that offers a remarkable scenic view over the surrounding territories. It’s also a popular one-day-trip destination from Fes and Meknes.

Dades Valley

If you’ve gotten tired of the big cities’ noise and buzz, it’s time to go and explore the magnificent nature of Morocco. With a striking backdrop of the High Atlas, Morocco’s Dades Valley is a perfect destination for nature-lovers, trekkers and hikers of all ages. You’ll get to see plenty of old villages, spectacular landscapes and as much sky above your head as you can handle.

Fes el Bali

This is another cultural center that is not to be missed during your visit to Morocco. It’s an Old City that gets much less attention than the vibrant Marrakesh, but its ancient vibe is something you won’t find anywhere else. Once you get into the city, it’s almost impossible not to get lost! Beautiful old doors and exceptional architecture will have you stopping near each building.

From breathtaking palaces to ancient tombs, a visit to Marrakesh is a Moroccan dream vacation for any traveler.

Located at the crossroads of what were once North African caravan routes in the High Atlas Mountains foothills, this is a city of glorious beauty and significance. As it is a major Moroccan commercial center, the 1.5 million citizens seamlessly bring the modern world to their ancient surroundings, and are known to be tourist-friendly and helpful.

Discover Moroccan traditional markets known as souks, which showcase specific crafts—pottery, jewelry, textiles—and how they are created. Marrakesh has the largest souk in the country, and you can also stay a while and join the auction for produced items in the late afternoon.

Medina is the old side of Marrakesh and travel there must include visits to Dar Si Said—museum featuring Moroccan arts and folk crafts, Dar Tiskiwin, a museum and townhouse showcasing Dutch expatriate Bert Flint’s collection of Moroccan wonders, and of course the Koutoubia mosque, a novel place surrounded by rose gardens.

Though being in Marrakesh is a wonder in itself, prepare to be awed by the incredible El Badi Palace, and Bahia Palace. Of all Marrakesh’s palaces these two are the most famous, and are truly architectural triumphs.

Marrakesh’s relaxed atmosphere draws visitors in, and you may never want to leave. With historical attractions including the Saadian Tombs which date back to the 16th century and the time of the renowned sultan Ahmad I al-Mansur, the city is a breath of fresh air for all history, museum, and culture buffs.

As it is close to the Sahara, adventurers can take the long way to Marrakesh, where you trek through the desert before arriving at your amazing destination, viewing other interesting historical sites along the way. This is just one of the many ways travel there is possible.

So, while Marrakesh became more prominent on the world stage following Casablanca, the classic movie is not its only claim to fame. Don’t miss out on all this unique city has to offer, visit Marrakesh and be blown away.