10 Days in Morocco: The Complete Traveler's Itinerary

You'll touch down in Casablanca, Morocco's beating economic heart and the country's largest city. After you meet your representative at the airport, you'll head straight north to Rabat, and honestly, that drive is your first taste of Morocco's diversity. You'll see the coastline on one side and glimpses of everyday Moroccan life on the other.

Rabat doesn't get nearly enough love from tourists, which is exactly what makes it perfect for your first day. You’ll check into your hotel and likely rest early, as your international flight may have taken its toll. Save your energy, tomorrow marks the beginning of an exciting journey.

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Wake up refreshed because you're about to fall in love with Rabat. This city is like Morocco's best-kept secret, blending French colonial elegance with authentic Moroccan heritage.

Your guided tour will take you through the heavy hitters: the Royal Palace with its ornate gates (you can't go inside, but the exterior is Instagram gold), the Chellah necropolis where Roman and Islamic ruins create this hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, and the Hassan Tower, that incomplete minaret that tells the story of ambitious dreams from the 12th century.

But the real gem? Kasbah Oudaya. This blue and white neighborhood perched above the river is where you'll want to get lost for a while. The narrow streets, the ocean views, the sense of stepping back in time, it's magical. After lunch, you'll wander through Rabat's medina, which is way more laid-back than what you'll encounter later.

Browse the souks, pick up some leather goods or traditional jewelry, and practice your bargaining skills in a low-pressure environment.

Then it's off to Chefchaouen, the famous Blue Pearl you've definitely seen all over social media. 

If you thought you'd seen blue before, Chefchaouen is about to prove you wrong. This town is painted in every shade of blue imaginable, and there are plenty of theories why –some say it's to repel mosquitoes, others claim it represents the sky and heaven, and some insist it was started by Jewish refugees. 

Your morning tour covers the essentials: the Kasbah Ali Ben Rachid with its garden and museum, and Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the heart of the medina where locals gather. But the real joy of Chefchaouen is just wandering. Get lost in those blue alleyways, discover hidden corners, chat with shopkeepers, and soak in the peaceful vibe that makes this town so special.

In the afternoon, you'll leave the blue behind and head toward Fez, but not before stopping at two incredible historical sites. First up is Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins. Walking through these ancient streets, seeing mosaics that are nearly 2,000 years old still intact, it's one of those moments that makes you feel deeply connected to history.

Then comes Meknes, one of Morocco's four imperial cities. Sultan Moulay Ismail wanted to create Morocco's answer to Versailles, and while he might not have quite matched Louis XIV's ambition, what he built is still seriously impressive. By evening, you'll arrive in Fez.

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Here's the truth about Fez: it will overwhelm you, confuse you, exhaust you, and absolutely blow your mind. The medina is the world's largest car-free urban zone and one of the most intact medieval cities anywhere. 

Your local guide is worth their weight in gold today because without them, you'd be hopelessly lost within minutes. You'll visit the stunning Bou-Inania and Attarin Madrasas, Islamic schools that look more like palaces with their intricate tile work and carved cedar. The tanneries are a must-see, even if the smell takes some getting used to. 

Ess-Seffarine Square is where you'll hear the rhythmic hammering of metalworkers creating brass and copper goods. It's incredibly loud and impossibly cool. You'll visit Moulay Idriss's tomb, the founder of Fez and one of Morocco's most important religious sites, and wind through the cabinet makers' souk where artisans craft beautiful wooden pieces using traditional techniques.

Here's something special: you'll get to participate in a pottery workshop with a master potter. It's hands-on, it's fun, and you'll gain serious appreciation for the skill involved in creating those beautiful Moroccan ceramics. After lunch at a local restaurant, you've got options. Head back to your riad to recharge, or keep exploring on your own. 

Today's drive from Fez to the Sahara is long but spectacular, watching Morocco transform before your eyes.

You'll stop in Ifrane, nicknamed "Little Switzerland" for its Alpine architecture and cool mountain air. Continue through cedar forests where Barbary macaques roam (windows up!), and watch the landscape shift from green mountains to desert as you approach Erfoud.

At the dunes, you'll swap your van for a 4x4 and head into the Sahara, timing it perfectly for sunset. Those photos you've seen? They don't capture the reality, the light shifting from gold to pink to orange across endless sand is breathtaking.

Your Merzouga desert camp offers proper beds, Berber hospitality, and dinner under the stars. After the campfire music, stay up late. The Milky Way over the Sahara is unforgettable and a must-have on any Morocco tour.

After breakfast, you'll leave the desert behind and head toward Ouarzazate, but not before stopping at Todra Gorge. Picture this: you're driving through an increasingly narrow canyon, the rock walls rising hundreds of feet on either side until you're in this spectacular slot canyon. The scale is mind-blowing, and it's a favorite spot for rock climbers from around the world.

Continuing on, you'll pass through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, and you'll understand why it's called that. These fortified houses dot the landscape, many crumbling, some still inhabited, all photogenic. You'll also stop at Skoura, one of Morocco's most beautiful oases. From the road, it looks small, but venture in and you'll discover this lush, expansive palm grove that seems impossible in such arid surroundings.

Ouarzazate, where you'll spend the night, is known as the "Gateway to the Desert" and also happens to be Morocco's Hollywood. Tomorrow, you'll see why.

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Film buffs, this day is for you. Ouarzazate's Atlas Studios is where they've filmed everything from "Gladiator" to "Game of Thrones," "The Mummy" to "Kingdom of Heaven."

 Your tour of the studio lot is fascinating, seeing the sets that brought these epic stories to life. Even if you're not a huge movie fan, it's pretty cool to stand where Russell Crowe fought for his life or where Daenerys commanded her dragons.

After the studios, you'll wind through the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass, crossing the High Atlas Mountains. This road is spectacular, climbing to over 7,000 feet with hairpin turns and absolutely stunning views at every corner. It's also where you'll stop at Ait Ben Haddou, another UNESCO World Heritage site and arguably Morocco's most famous kasbah.

This fortified village has appeared in countless films and TV shows, and it's easy to see why. The red earthen buildings stacked up the hillside, the ancient streets, the views across the valley – it's like stepping onto a movie set, except this is the real thing, with families still living within its walls.

Climb to the top for panoramic views and the perfect photo op. Later, you'll arrive in Marrakech by evening

Marrakech deserves its reputation as Morocco's most exciting city. Your guided tour starts at Majorelle Garden, the stunning oasis created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent. The vivid blue buildings against lush cacti and bamboo gardens offer a welcome break from the medina's chaos.

Next is Menara with its reflecting pool and Atlas Mountain backdrop, followed by the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, this 12th-century minaret is Marrakech's most recognizable landmark.

You'll explore the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter with its distinct architecture, then take a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride, or "koutchi," through the city. Touristy? Sure. But charming and a nice rest for your feet.

Eventually, you'll end up back at Jemaa el-Fnaa. Snack on food from the stalls (the fresh-squeezed orange juice is ridiculously cheap), watch the performers, and soak it all in. This square is the heart and soul of Marrakech.

Your time in Marrakech has probably flown by, but today you're heading back to where it all started: Casablanca. The drive is straightforward, and when you arrive, you'll meet your guide for a tour of Morocco's largest city.

The highlight is definitely the Hassan II Mosque, one of the few mosques in Morocco that non-Muslims can enter. And you absolutely should. This is the third-largest mosque in the world, built partially over the Atlantic Ocean, with a minaret that towers 210 meters high. The craftsmanship inside is extraordinary – the marble, the carved cedar, the tile work, all representing the finest Moroccan artisanship. The fact that waves sometimes crash against the glass floor in the prayer hall? Pretty spectacular.

You'll also cruise along the Corniche, Casablanca's beachfront where locals come to escape the city's hustle, explore the Habous Quarter with its traditional architecture and artisan shops, and see the Royal Palace from the outside. Casablanca doesn't have the ancient medinas of Fez or the energy of Marrakech, but it's got a cosmopolitan vibe that's distinctly modern Morocco.

After breakfast, you've got a free morning before heading to the airport. Depending on your flight time, you might squeeze in some last-minute shopping or just relax at your hotel. Your driver will make sure you get to the airport with plenty of time to spare.

As you board your flight, you'll be carrying memories of blue cities and golden deserts, the taste of tagine and mint tea, the sounds of the call to prayer and the chaos of the souks, and hopefully, a deeper appreciation for Morocco's incredible diversity.

The beauty of this 10-day journey is the pacing. You're not rushed, but you're not dawdling either. Each day builds on the previous one, taking you deeper into Morocco's geography, history, and culture. You start on the coast, venture into the mountains, experience the desert, and end in the imperial cities. It's comprehensive without being exhausting.

The mix of guided tours and free time is also crucial. Yes, you need guides in places like Fez where you'd be lost without them, but you also get those moments to explore on your own, to stumble upon your own discoveries, to connect with locals at your own pace.

• Accommodations: This itinerary typically offers different tiers of hotels, from comfortable to luxury. The desert camp in Merzouga is an experience in itself.

• Transportation: You'll be in private, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers who know these roads intimately. The drives can be long, especially Day 5, but they're scenic and comfortable.

• Guides: Your English-speaking guides are local experts who bring each destination to life with stories, history, and insights you won't find in guidebooks. Don't hesitate to ask questions.

• Food: Most breakfasts are included, and some lunches and dinners depending on the location. But don't miss the chance to try street food, visit local restaurants, and explore Morocco's incredible cuisine on your own too.

• Money: While many places accept cards, cash is king in the medinas and souks. Keep small denominations for tipping guides, drivers, and restaurant staff.

This 10-day journey works beautifully for first-time Morocco visitors who want the full experience without the stress of planning everything themselves. It's perfect if you want structure and organization but also value authentic experiences and some freedom to explore.

It's ideal for couples, groups of friends, families with older kids, or solo travelers who appreciate the security and social aspects of organized travel. 

So pack your comfortable walking shoes, bring layers because the desert gets cold at night, charge your camera, and prepare yourself for one incredible adventure. Morocco is waiting, and trust me, it's going to be amazing.

Q1. Is 10 days enough to experience Morocco’s highlights?

Yes, 10 days is ideal for seeing Morocco’s main highlights without rushing. It allows you to explore imperial cities, cross the Atlas Mountains, experience the Sahara Desert, and still enjoy coastal or northern towns.

Q2. What’s the best 10-day route through Morocco?

A popular and well-balanced route is Casablanca → Rabat → Chefchaouen → Fes → Sahara Desert (Merzouga) → Dades or Ouarzazate → Marrakech. This route covers culture, history, nature, and desert adventure.

Q3. How many days should I spend in each city?

Plan 1–2 days in cities like Casablanca and Rabat, 2 days in Fes and Marrakech, 1 day in Chefchaouen, and 2–3 days for the Sahara and scenic drives through the Atlas Mountains.

Q4. When is the best time to visit Morocco?

The best time to visit is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is pleasant across cities, mountains, and the desert.

Q5. Is a guided tour better than traveling independently?

For a 10-day itinerary, a guided tour is often easier and more efficient. It handles long drives, local guides, accommodations, and desert logistics, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience.

Ready to discover Morocco's magic? Explore our Morocco Travel Packages and enjoy the best of Middle East trips!