How to plan a trip to Morocco independently

North Africa is so alluring, but you don't feel like going to Tunisia again? Well, the task is clear. We suggest considering a trip to Morocco as an option. 

We will tell you everything about a trip to this country and share the best cities, where to go for a holiday in Morocco. In short, grab a tangerine — and hit the road!

Visa

Good news — Russians do not need a visa if you go to explore Morocco for up to 90 days. Good news with an asterisk — your international passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of departure from the country. So you'll have to check the validity period of your document in advance if you have even the slightest doubt!

How to get there

Direct flights are currently scarce, but getting there with a layover is quite realistic. For example, you can buy tickets for the Moscow — Marrakech route, and with a layover in Turkey, reach your destination in 12 to 30 hours. Or take Moscow — Casablanca tickets, and get to another tourist city in Morocco in about the same amount of time. The main thing is to choose a resort whose surroundings you would like to explore thoroughly. 

Similarly, with a layover, you can easily fly to the country's capital, Rabat, as well as to Essaouira and Tangier. More on this below.

Where to go in Morocco

The main leitmotif of the journey is medinas, unique architecture, ports, fortresses, and the Atlantic Ocean. The choice is yours.

Tangier

Let's start with the north! Tangier is famous among those who want to sit on the sand and dip their feet in the Strait of Gibraltar. The port city is called the gateway between Africa and Europe, so it's worth visiting at least for its geolocation. If you want to relax on a good beach, it's better to choose beaches in the surrounding areas rather than within the city limits.

Be sure to visit Hafa Cafe, where writer William Burroughs relaxed, admiring the strait with a cup of coffee. Afterward, go see the Phoenician Tombs, located nearby. Some of the gravestones are carved directly into the rocks. For those with a craving for local flavor, we recommend visiting Majid Boutique, where colorful carpets, ceramics, and jewelry are sold. 

Rabat

Hooray, the capital! The most important location to visit is the ancient fortress of Kasbah of the Udayas with its cozy streets, interesting residential architecture, and magnificent panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don't miss the Andalusian Gardens: citrus trees and cypresses bloom everywhere, in whose shade it's easy to hide from the heat and enjoy a cozy oasis. 

If wandering through the 12th-century fortress doesn't bore you and you want to walk more, be sure to visit the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. It exhibits works by local artists, such as Farid Belkahia, Hassan Hajjaj, and Ahmed Yacoubi.

Fes

There aren't many attractions in Morocco's capital, but in Fes, you'll hardly have time to rest. Interested in architecture? Head to Al-Karaouine University, one of the oldest, dating back to 859, or to the Jewish quarter Mellah. In the latter, be sure to visit the Aben Danan Synagogue, where original Torah scrolls are kept.

Among the cultural "must-visits" are the Museum of Moroccan Wood Art and the Dar Batha Museum. And for lovers of the "mystical," you definitely need to visit the Marinid Tombs, erected in the 14th century. From there, a breathtaking panorama of the old Fes medina opens up.

Casablanca

The name of this Moroccan city translates to "white house." And that's where we start — the houses in the old part of the city are indeed painted white. However, such "casas" are not alone here — the city boasts many skyscrapers, interestingly integrated into the landscape. 

By the way, Casablanca is considered the most populous city in Morocco, where not only buildings but also peoples coexist. Throughout the city's history, the Portuguese lived here, and from 1907 to 1956, Casablanca was occupied by the French.

Among the most interesting attractions, we note the Habous quarter, where an olive market is hidden among majestic mosques and the Mahkama du Pacha palace. And, of course, you must visit Hassan II Mosque — one of the largest in the world.

Essaouira

Essaouira is a city of the most beautiful windows, wooden doors, cozy streets fragrant with aromatic spices. Perhaps this could become the most cherished location on any traveler's trip!

In ancient times, this port city was considered a pirate mecca, and now cats huddle in the corners of the port, looking for a place in the sun. Fishermen sell their catch right in the port, so animals "graze" here constantly. 

Any tourist must visit the Essaouira Fortress with its majestic forts. And, of course, try the freshest oysters and sea urchins in local cafes. All in all, the city deserves to be simply walked through for a long time, buying jewelry and carpets, and taking photos at every corner. The beauty is indescribable!

Agadir

Agadir is a great, well-developed city for tourists, where it's best to fly if you want a typical vacation. Here you'll find beaches, cozy cafes with local and European dishes by the pier, and the bustling El Had market with delicious fruits and essential souvenirs.

Upon arrival in Agadir, we strongly recommend taking a ride on the local cable car to enjoy a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean, taking an excursion to the picturesque Paradise Valley and visiting the small fishing village of Taghazout, where people often come to surf.

Marrakech

Mosques, palaces, and gardens — and so on in a loop, if you suddenly decide to explore all of Marrakech. At every step in this Moroccan city, you can find incredible architecture, cafes with delicious local food, and rare goods. In general, just coming here and wandering through the medina is already a cool experience.

We advise not to limit yourself to walking tours of the city, but to get to the magnificent Yves Saint Laurent Museum and the Majorelle Garden. It is in this location that all the riot of colors reflecting Moroccan culture is gathered. And be sure to visit the tannery near Marrakech — a very colorful place where you can see the art of local craftsmanship.

Currency

Take both dollars and euros with you. You will still need to exchange them for the local currency — Moroccan Dirham. Most establishments only accept cash, so it's best to stock up on it upon arrival. 

Important nuance: it is forbidden to take Moroccan Dirhams out of the country, so it's better to spend everything down to the last coin on souvenirs.

Language

In most tourist cities, you will definitely be understood in English. But if you venture beyond such locations, it's better to have a translator — locals understand Arabic or French.

Season

Spring and autumn are great periods for those who want to wander around cities, enjoying pleasant weather (on average, around +23-25 °C). Summer is made for fans of heat and tanning by the Atlantic Ocean!

Transport

To see all the natural beauties of Morocco, it's best to rent a car. But if you didn't plan to drive, no problem — buses run between cities. Additionally, you can book intercity transport tickets online in advance and travel around the country by simply showing the driver your booking confirmation.

Accommodation

There will be no difficulties with booking. You can check in by choosing a room, for example, on the "Ostrovok" service or its analogues, paying everything with a card. Of course, the choice on Booking or Airbnb is greater, but for that, you will need an international card. Avid fans of Morocco advise looking into guesthouses. They usually have a cozy atmosphere and friendly neighbors. 

So choose a city you like and head to Morocco to have an amazing next vacation!