Day 1: Arrive in Marrakesh
After arriving in Marrakesh, take it easy today. Marrakesh can be overwhelming, so spend your first day settling in. Head over to the Jemaa el-Fna square in the afternoon. It’s full of food stalls, musicians, and snake charmers. The square truly comes alive at night, so don’t miss that.
Explore the nearby souks (markets) for some shopping or just wander around. You’ll find everything from spices and ceramics to leather goods. End the day eating a tagine at one of the local restaurants.
Day 2: Explore Marrakesh
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Jardin Majorelle. This garden is a peaceful escape from the noise of the city. Afterward, head to the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum if you’re into fashion or design.
Next, visit the Koutoubia Mosque. While non-Muslims can’t go inside, the surrounding gardens are worth a visit. Don’t leave Marrakesh without exploring the Bahia Palace—it’s full of impressive architecture and mosaics.
In the afternoon, go back to the souks. Now that you’ve had time to adjust to the city, you’ll feel more confident exploring them further.
Day 3: Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains or Essaouira
On day 3, get out of the city and enjoy a day trip. You have two solid options: the Atlas Mountains or Essaouira.
If you’re into hiking and nature, head to the Atlas Mountains. It’s about an hour’s drive from Marrakesh, and you can hike or visit Berber villages.
If you’d prefer a coastal escape, go to Essaouira. It’s a calm, breezy seaside town about two hours away. Stroll along the beach, eat fresh seafood, and explore its charming medina.
Both options make for a great day outside the city. Keep your evening light when you return, as it’s been a long day.
Day 4: Travel to Fes
Today, take the train or bus to Fes. It’s about a 7-hour ride, so you’ll have plenty of time to relax during the trip. The train ride is scenic and passes through changing landscapes.
Arrive in Fes in the late afternoon. After getting settled, stroll around the old medina. Fes is much more traditional than Marrakesh, but in a good way. Spend the evening in a rooftop café where you can enjoy a mint tea while overlooking the medina.
Day 5: Explore Fes
Fes is all about the historical sites. Start your day with a visit to the Bou Inania Madrasa. This Quranic school is full of intricate carvings and tiled walls. Just a short walk away is the Al-Attarine Madrasa, another stunning example of Moorish architecture.
Afterward, head to the Chouara Tanneries, one of the city’s most famous spots. Here, you’ll get to see leather workers dyeing leather in large stone vats. The sight—and smell—are unforgettable. If you want to buy leather goods, this is the place.
End your day with a visit to the ancient city of Fes el Bali, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow, winding streets are perfect for getting lost in.
Day 6: Day Trip to Meknes and Volubilis
Take a day trip today to explore Meknes and Volubilis. Meknes is about an hour away and is home to grand gates, palaces, and gardens, though it’s overshadowed by the more popular Marrakesh and Fes.
While in Meknes, visit Bab El-Mansour, one of Morocco’s most beautiful gates. Don’t miss the Sultan’s stables and granaries either. Once you’ve wrapped up in Meknes, head to Volubilis, an ancient Roman city. Explore its well-preserved mosaics and ruins.
You’ll be back in Fes by late afternoon. Relax in the medina or get an early dinner.
Day 7: Depart from Fes
Depending on your flight time, you might have some extra time today to explore a bit more. If so, head to Dar Batha Museum. It has a good collection of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts, including ceramics and wood carvings.
Otherwise, just enjoy a slow breakfast, grab any last-minute souvenirs, and reflect on the great week you’ve had in Morocco before heading to the airport for your departure.
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