Morocco by train: 12-day discovery tour

Casablanca

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

On arrival at Casablanca Airport, you'll be welcomed by your guide, who'll join you on the train to your hotel in the city centre. After settling in, we suggest visiting the great Hassan II Mosque: the largest in Africa and the fifth largest in the world. This imposing building is a must-see and the only mosque in the city that non-Muslims can visit. The majesty and craftsmanship of this sacred building is breathtaking, with meticulous geometric tiles, celestial marble inlays and intricate carvings. The building offers space for over 25,000 worshippers inside and many more outside. In the evening, soak up the atmosphere in central Casablanca and choose a restaurant for your first taste of Morocco's exciting cuisine.

Casablanca - Tangier

Day 2: Exploring Tangier

After breakfast, head to the station to catch the high-speed train to Tangier (approximately two-hours' journey). You’ll travel along the Atlantic coast via Rabat and Larach, then head inland through farmland and forest to Tangier.

After checking in at your hotel, head out for a guided city tour. Visit the Grand and Petit Socco squares and the silversmiths' street that connects the two. Wander into the medina and the souks of the old town accompanied by your local guide. The evening is at leisure in Tangier, with the option to join your guide for dinner in the winding streets of Tangier.

Tangier - Chefchaouen - Tangier

Day 3: Day trip to the Blue Town

Today, you’ll travel by road for a day trip to the ‘Blue’ town of Chefchaouen. The drive takes you south towards Tetouan with views of the picturesque Rif Mountains. The journey will be by private car or cab with a guide. This characterful town in the foothills of the mountains is painted in deep and vibrant shades of blue. Spend the day exploring, stopping for a mint tea to people watch in busy pavement cafes, and visiting artisan craft workshops.

Return to your hotel in Tangier in the evening, which is free to spend however you feel.

Tangier - Meknes

Day 4: Imperial palaces of Meknes

After breakfast today, take the train to the imperial city of Meknes via Sidi Kacem on the southern line. The estimated journey time will be around 4.5 hours.

Check into your hotel, then be sure to take time to explore the city, including the palaces in the Medina, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and the Bab Mansour Gate. Visit the covered markets near Place El-Hedim and, if you have time, you could also tour the Dar Jamai Museum and the Madrasa Bou Inania near the Grand Mosque.

Meknes - Volubilis - Meknes

Day 5: Roman ruins & a holy city

Take a day trip to the city of Moulay Idriss and the beautiful Roman ruins of Volubilis. This holy city was named after Morocco's most famous saint, Moulay Idriss, who brought the Shiite faith to the region. Spread over two sacred hills at the foot of the legendary Mount Zerhoun, the city is a tantalising mix of winding streets and narrow alleyways. The nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis are some of the best preserved in Morocco. Founded by Carthaginian traders in the 2nd century BC, the city's prosperity was partly based on olive cultivation. This wealth led to the construction of numerous magnificent townhouses. Choose to visit solo or hire a guide. 

Afterwards, it's time to head back to your accommodation in Meknes. 

Meknes - Fes

Day 6: Fabulous Fes

Board the morning train to Fes, taking you through small villages and vineyards around Meknes, then on into the city. It’s a short trip of under an hour and on arrival, you'll check into your hotel in the city centre. In the afternoon, join a local guide for an exciting city tour. Starting at the Royal Palace, traverse the historic Mellah, or Jewish Quarter, and ascend one of the Borj Towers for a sweeping panoramic view of the medina. Then visit a beautiful mosaic-adorned house for a demonstration showcasing the traditional pottery techniques of the Fassi artisans. Stroll through ancient lanes and neighbourhoods into the heart of the Medina, immersing yourself in its diverse artisan districts and tanneries. Spend the rest of the day at leisure soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant city.

Fes - Taza - Fes

Day 7: Into the Atlas Mountains

After breakfast today, you'll take a day trip to Taza in the Middle Atlas Mountains. A scenic drive takes you out of the city and along the edge of the Barrage Idriss Lake. From there, ascend to the Jbel Tazzeka National Park and enjoy panoramic views as you descend towards Taza. Take some time to stroll around the historic city centre and find somewhere to stop for lunch, before returning to Fes in the afternoon. Enjoy one last evening in Fes exploring its atmospheric souks, browsing artisan crafts and dining in one of its excellent restaurants.

Fes - Rabat

Day 8: Journey to the capital

After breakfast this morning, you'll board the train to Rabat, passing through Kenitra and hugging the coastline before reaching the Moroccan capital. The journey will take around 3.5 hours and on arrival, you’ll check into your hotel in the centre.

The rest of the day is free to explore Rabat, the charming capital of Morocco, is often overlooked but is known for being a friendly place and much less visited than Morocco's other, more famous cities. The streets of Rabat have a certain cosmopolitan and European flair. Explore sights such as the Kasbah des Ouidaias fortress and the Chellah Roman ruins, today used as a concert venue and gardens.

Rabat - Marrakech

Day 9: Train to Marrakech

After breakfast, it’s time to take a train to Marrakesh. The journey is around five hours, winding through varied and interesting landscapes. After checking in at your hotel, the afternoon is free to explore this fascinating city, home to many mosques, palaces and gardens. The medina is a densely packed, walled medieval city dating back to the Berber Empire, with labyrinthine alleyways where thriving souks (marketplaces) sell traditional textiles, pottery and jewellery. Head to the main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, in the evening, to soak up the lively atmosphere.

Marrakech

Day 10: Marrakech city tour

After breakfast this morning, meet a local city guide for a comprehensive tour of the city. Your journey through the vibrant tapestry of Marrakech begins at some of the city's most prominent sites. Be awestruck by the grandeur of the Koutoubia Mosque, continue to the Saadian Tombs and step into the opulent world of the Bahia Palace, where intricate architecture and lush gardens create a haven of tranquillity amid the city's hustle and bustle. Conclude your tour at Jamaa El-Fna, the liveliest square in Marrakech, frequented by snake charmers, monkey performers, fortune tellers, food stalls and musicians. Once the tour ends, enjoy the rest of the day exploring independently.

Marrakech - High Atlas - Marrakech

Day 11: Hiking the High Atlas

Take a day trip from Marrakech into the High Atlas Mountains to visit Lake Takerkoust and the Plateau du Kik. Hike to a special viewpoint and admire the breathtaking views over the Haouz Plain. As you walk up from the lake, gaze out over the surrounding landscapes, passing Berber villages, small barley fields and rows of olive trees. The road to the national park is lined with oaks, junipers and the occasional strawberry tree, and gradually descends into the valley and Lake Ouirgane. Finally, you'll reach the Toubkal National Park in Ouirgane and enjoy an authentic afternoon tea in a Ksar garden before returning to Marrakech.

Marrakech

Day 12: Homeward bound

After breakfast this morning, transfer from your hotel in Marrakech to the airport in good time for your flight home.