Morocco sits at the crossroads of Africa and Europe, offering travelers a mix of ancient medinas, sprawling deserts, and coastal towns. From the blue alleys of Chefchaouen to the golden dunes of the Sahara, this North African nation holds countless surprises. If you are planning a trip, there are plenty of things to do in Morocco that suit all kinds of travelers.
The country welcomed over 17 million visitors in 2024, making it one of Africa’s most visited destinations. Its four imperial cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and diverse landscapes make it a dream for explorers. This guide covers the top things to do in Morocco so you can plan a trip that matches your interests.
1. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, Marrakech
Jemaa el-Fnaa stands at the heart of Marrakech’s old medina. This public square dates back to the 11th century when the city was founded. UNESCO recognized it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage site in 2001 for its unique concentration of Moroccan traditions.
During the day, you will find orange juice vendors, henna artists, and snake charmers. As evening arrives, the square transforms into an open-air food court with dozens of stalls serving grilled meats, seafood, and traditional dishes. Sitting at a rooftop café while watching the chaos below is among the fun things to do in Morocco.
- Google Rating: 4.3/5
- Location: Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
- Timings: Open 24 hours (busiest from 5:00 PM to midnight)
- Price: Free entry; plan to spend one or two days to fully explore the market
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2. Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca
The Hassan II Mosque rises above the Atlantic Ocean with its 210-meter minaret, the tallest religious structure in Africa. King Hassan II commissioned this mosque in the 1980s, and it opened in 1993. The prayer hall can hold 25,000 worshippers, while another 80,000 can gather in its courtyard.
This is one of the few mosques in Morocco that welcomes non-Muslim visitors. Guided tours run several times daily and last about one hour. Inside, you will see Moroccan craftsmanship at its finest with intricate tilework, carved cedar ceilings, and marble floors. The retractable roof opens to reveal the sky above. A visit here is a must among things to do in Morocco for tourists.
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: Bd Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Casablanca, Morocco
- Timings: 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM (Ramadan timing vary)
- Price: MAD 130/ INR 1,306 for adults, MAD 65/ INR 653 for students, MAD 30/ INR 301 for children beyond 6 years, and free for children under 6 years; set aside 1 to 2 hours to completely explore the mosque
3. Fes Medina
Fes el-Bali, the old medina of Fes, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. Founded in the 9th century, it is the world’s largest car-free urban zone. Over 9,000 narrow alleys wind through this ancient quarter where artisans continue centuries-old crafts.
The Chouara Tannery is a highlight, where workers dye leather using traditional methods unchanged since the 11th century. The Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in 859, holds the record as the oldest continuously operating educational institution. Getting lost in these streets is one of the must see places in Morocco.
- Google Rating: NA
- Location: Fes el-Bali, Fes
- Timings: Open daily (shops close around 8 PM)
- Price: Medina access is free; Attraction ticket prices vary; set aside a couple of days to explore the area
4. Chefchaouen Blue City
Chefchaouen sits in the Rif Mountains at 564 meters above sea level. Every building in the old town is painted in shades of blue, giving it the nickname “Blue Pearl.” The tradition began in the 1930s and has continued ever since. Some say Jewish refugees brought the practice, believing blue represented the sky and the divine.
This city offers a peaceful contrast to Marrakech and Fes. Wandering the blue alleyways, browsing handicraft shops, and hiking to the Spanish Mosque for sunset views fill your days here. The Kasbah Museum inside the 15th-century fortress displays regional artifacts. For photographers, every corner provides a shot worth taking.
- Google Rating: NA
- Location: Chefchaouen Province, Northern Morocco
- Timings: Town is always accessible; Kasbah 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed Tuesdays)
- Price: Free entry to town; Attraction ticket prices vary; set aside a couple of days to explore the area
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5. Sahara Desert & Erg Chebbi
The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga reach heights of up to 150 meters and glow orange at sunrise and sunset. This region offers the classic Sahara experience that draws travelers from around the world. Camel treks depart in the late afternoon, taking you to desert camps where Berber hosts serve traditional meals.
Spending a night under the stars in the Sahara is unforgettable. Many tours include drumming sessions around campfires and sandboarding down the dunes. The drive from Marrakech takes about 9 hours, so most travelers join multi-day tours. This adventure appears on every list of things to do in Morocco today.
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: Merzouga, Drâa-Tafilalet Region
- Timings: Tours depart year-round (September – February is ideal)
- Price: Overnight camel trek and multi-day tours vary based on operator; plan to spend 1 to 2 days exploring this famous tourist attraction
6. Majorelle Garden, Marrakech
French painter Jacques Majorelle created this botanical garden starting in the 1920s. He spent four decades cultivating plants from five continents and painting the villa in his signature cobalt blue, now called “Majorelle Blue.” Fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé purchased and restored the garden in 1980.
Today, the garden houses over 300 plant species, including cacti, bamboo, and bougainvillea. The Berber Museum inside displays traditional jewelry, textiles, and artifacts. Saint Laurent’s ashes were scattered here after his death. Visiting early in the morning helps you avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5
- Location: Rue Yves St Laurent, Marrakech 40090, Morocco
- Timings: Daily 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Price: MAD 170/ INR 1,707 for adults, MAD 95/ INR 954 for children under 10 years old, and free for children under 10 years old; set aside 1 to 2 hours to explore this garden
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7. Aït Benhaddou
This fortified village became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Built along the old caravan route between Marrakech and the Sahara, its earthen buildings date mainly from the 17th century onward. Hollywood discovered this location decades ago, using it for films like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones.
Only a few families still live inside the ksar, but visitors can explore freely. Walking through the stepped alleyways reveals old homes, a mosque, and a granary at the summit. The viewpoint at the top offers sweeping views of the surrounding valley. Sunrise and sunset paint the mud walls in golden light.
- Google Rating: NA
- Location: Ouarzazate Province, 30 km from Ouarzazate
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Price: Free to explore
8. Essaouira
Essaouira sits on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, about three hours from Marrakech. Strong trade winds make it a top spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The 18th-century medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its whitewashed buildings and blue shutters.
The fishing port bustles with activity each morning as boats return with their catch. You can pick fresh fish at the market and have it grilled on the spot. The ramparts offer views of the ocean and nearby Mogador Island. This laid-back town provides a break from busier cities and ranks among the fun things to do in Morocco for coastal lovers.
- Google Rating: NA
- Location: Essaouira, Marrakech-Safi Region
- Timings: Town accessible 24 hours
- Price: Free entry
9. Todra Gorge
Todra Gorge cuts through the eastern High Atlas Mountains near Tinerhir. At its narrowest point, sheer rock walls rise 300 meters on either side with only 10 meters between them. The canyon stretches for about 600 meters and attracts rock climbers from around the world.
Morning light creates the best conditions for photography when the sun illuminates the reddish canyon walls. A river flows through the base, and small cafés serve tea beside the water. The drive from Marrakech takes about five hours through dramatic mountain scenery.
- Google Rating: 4./5
- Location: Near Tinerhir, Drâa-Tafilalet Region
- Timings: Open 24 hours (visit early morning for best light)
- Price: Free
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FAQs
What are the best things to do in Morocco for first-time visitors?
Marrakech makes the perfect starting point with its vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square capturing the energy of the country. From there, the ancient Fes Medina offers winding lanes filled with centuries of history. A desert trip to the Sahara and a visit to blue-washed Chefchaouen round out the best things to do in Morocco for tourists.
What shouldn’t you miss in Morocco?
The Fes Medina, an overnight stay in the Sahara Desert, and the blue streets of Chefchaouen appear on most travelers’ lists for good reason. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca also earns its place with stunning architecture rising above the Atlantic. These are must see places in Morocco that create memories lasting a lifetime.
What are the best things to do in Morocco during the day?
Morning hours are ideal for wandering medinas and souks before temperatures climb. Majorelle Garden offers a peaceful retreat, while the Atlas Mountains reward hikers with stunning views. Day trips to coastal towns and ancient ruins give you plenty of fun things to do in Morocco between city visits.
What are the best things to do in Morocco at night?
Jemaa el-Fnaa transforms after dark with food stalls, musicians, and storytellers drawing crowds into the square. Rooftop dinners in Marrakech and Fes pair traditional cuisine with beautiful city views. In the Sahara, stargazing at desert camps becomes an unforgettable way to end your day.
What are the most kid-friendly activities in Morocco?
Beaches in Agadir and Essaouira welcome families with gentle waves and wide stretches of sand. Camel rides, garden visits, and wandering the friendly Chefchaouen medina keep children happily engaged. Many riads accommodate families with connecting rooms, making travel comfortable for everyone.
What are the best cultural things to do in Morocco?
Working tanneries in Fes reveal traditional leather-making methods passed down through generations. Watching artisans craft pottery and metalwork connects you with living traditions still thriving today. Cooking classes teaching tagine recipes and traditional hammam visits rank among the top things to do in Morocco for culture lovers.
What are the top food experiences in Morocco?
Tagine and couscous at local restaurants introduce you to the heart of Moroccan cuisine. Fresh seafood in Essaouira and sweet mint tea served everywhere add to your culinary journey. Street food at Jemaa el-Fnaa and guided food tours in Fes reveal the country’s rich culinary traditions.
What are the best shopping areas in Morocco?
The souks of Marrakech and Fes overflow with leather goods, ceramics, spices, and colorful textiles. Essaouira specializes in argan oil products made from locally harvested nuts. Bargaining is expected and becomes part of the enjoyable shopping experience here.
What’s the best time of year to visit Morocco for sightseeing?
Spring and fall bring mild temperatures ideal for exploring cities and countryside alike. Summer stays hot in inland areas but remains pleasant along the coast. Winter suits desert trips and relaxed city walks without the crowds. These seasons provide the best conditions to enjoy the things to do in Morocco across different regions.
