Morocco's imperial cities
Uncover the mysteries and charms of Morocco's imperial cities on this fascinating eight-day tour. Be enchanted by the labyrinthine souks and tantalizing cuisine of Marrakech before getting to know the history and tranquil gardens of Rabat. Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis en route to Fes where the bustling streets of the old medina, the age-old art of leather-making, and bold local flavors beckon. Travel onward to Meknes to marvel at the grandeur of the Bab Mansour Gate and medina. Finally, be awed by Casablanca's majestic Hassan II Mosque before returning to Marrakech for a leisurely exploration of palaces, gardens, and traditional hammams. Vibrant culture, rich history, and breath-taking landscapes abound on this extraordinary adventure.
Services
Included:
- Seven nights accommodation in your preferred hotel category
- Select meals depending on the itinerary
- Arranged in-trip transportation
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
- English-speaking guide on excursions
- 24/7 in-destination assistance
Excluded:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa charges
- Tips & gratuities
- Personal expenses
Optional:
- Speak to your local expert if there's an experience that you'd really love to include in your trip
Itinerary at a Glance
Marrakech
Welcome to bustling Marrakech!
Marrakech - Rabat
History & serenity in Rabat
Rabat - Volubilis - Fes
Journey to Fes
Fes
Learn about age-old traditions in Fes
Fes - Meknes - Casablanca
The architectural delights of Meknes
Casablanca - Marrakech
Return to Marrakech!
Marrakech
A last day in Marrakech
Marrakech
Goodbye, Morocco
Detailed Itinerary
Marrakech
Day 1: Welcome to bustling Marrakech!
Welcome to Marrakech, one of Morocco's four former imperial cities! Arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport and transfer to your accommodation. Once you've checked in and recovered from your travels, set out to explore the bustling souks of the old medina, and enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine for your welcome dinner. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace, soaking up the rich and vibrant surroundings.
Marrakech - Rabat
Day 2: History & serenity in Rabat
Today, you'll depart from Marrakech and travel to Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. A day steeped in history awaits, as you'll visit the 12th-century Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which contains the tombs of king Mohammed V and his sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah.
Continue on to explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. For a peaceful escape, wander past exotic flowers and fruit trees in the Andalusian Gardens, before sitting down to enjoy fresh seafood at one of Rabat's seaside restaurants. Overnight in Rabat.
Rabat - Volubilis - Fes
Day 3: Journey to Fes
Leave Rabat behind as you journey on to Fes, one of Morocco's most iconic imperial cities. Along the way, make a stop at the partly-excavated ruins of Volubilis, a Berber-Roman city and UNESCO World Heritage Site which may have been the capital of the Kingdom of Mauretania.
Once you've arrived into Fes, take time to explore the UNESCO-listed Fes el Bali (Old Medina) with its maze-like streets and bustling markets. Then, soak up panoramic views of the city from the site of the Merenid Tombs, which date back to the 14th century. Overnight stay in Fes.
Fes
Day 4: Learn about age-old traditions in Fes
Another immersive day of discovery and wonder awaits in Fes! You'll first spend the morning visiting tanneries and learning all about the art of leather-making in some of the oldest tanneries in the world - a truly insightful and senses-provoking experience is on the cards.
You'll also partake in a traditional Moroccan cooking class today, during which you'll discover how to prepare classic local dishes. In the afternoon, take a trip into the Ville Nouvelle (New Town), offering up a complete contrast to the old medina. Overnight in Fes.
Fes - Meknes - Casablanca
Day 5: The architectural delights of Meknes
Today, depart from Fes and travel to Meknes, a former imperial city known for its Moorish-inspired architectural grandeur. Explore the UNESCO-listed medina and monumental Bab Mansour Gate, before resuming your travels with an onward journey to Casablanca.
A wonderful coastal hub that blends history and modernity, Casablanca features striking Mauresque architecture that blends Moorish and European Art Deco influences. During your time here, visit the expansive Hassan ll Mosque and indulge in traditional cuisine for dinner - a savoury seafood bastilla, perhaps, or snails in a spiced broth for the more adventurous.
Casablanca - Marrakech
Day 6: Return to Marrakech!
Today, it's time to leave Casablanca and make your way back to Marrakech, on a drive that's just shy of three hours. Upon your arrival, embark on a guided city tour of the souks and palaces of the old medina. You've also the option of visiting the Majorelle Garden, a botanical oasis with vibrant plant life and artistic displays.
In the evening, head to the bustling Jemaa el Fnaa Square, where you can expect to find a flurry of snake charmers, storytellers, musicians, food vendors, and much more - a wonderful way to cap off the penultimate night of your Moroccan itinerary.
Marrakech
Day 7: A last day in Marrakech
Good morning, Marrakech! Wake up to breakfast at a traditional Moroccan cafe, before spending the day at a leisurely pace. Shop for handicrafts at the Ensemble Artisanal or seek out the multisensory delights of the city's other markets.
Later on, tour the intricate rooms of the iconic, 19th-century Bahia Palace and its sprawling complex of gardens. Finally, you'll have some time to unwind in a traditional hammam on your last evening in this unforgettable imperial city.
Marrakech
Day 8: Goodbye, Morocco
On your last day in Morocco, transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport in time for your departure flight. Safe travels and visit again soon!
