Morocco Imperial Cities Journey - 8 Days

Upon arrival at Marrakesh International Airport, you will be met by an assistant who will help with your transfer to the hotel. If you prefer to rest after your flight, you can relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities. Alternatively, if you’re eager to begin exploring, you are free to venture out independently to discover the local shops and bars in this vibrant city.

After breakfast at the hotel, we set out on a full-day tour of Marrakesh. Begin with an exterior view of the Saadian Tombs, followed by the impressive Koutoubia Mosque, notable for its 70-metre-high minaret dating back to the late 12th century during the Almohad Empire.

Next, explore the stunning Bahia Palace, renowned for its intricate cedar woodwork and marble decoration. We then take a moment to relax in the tranquil Menara Gardens, a peaceful spot away from the city’s bustle. In the afternoon, visit Djemaa El Fna, the main square and marketplace of the Medina, bustling with local crafts and products.

Throughout the day, you’ll encounter unique sights such as monkey trainers and snake charmers, while in the evening the square comes alive with musicians and traditional performances. Before returning to the hotel, enjoy a tasting of various olives. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

After breakfast at the hotel, we leave Marrakesh and travel to Casablanca. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel. Following lunch (not included), we take a guided panoramic tour of Morocco’s economic capital. The tour includes the central market, the charming Habous district, the exterior of the Royal Palace, Mohamed V Square, and the residential area of Anfa. We also admire the exterior of the impressive Hassan II Mosque, which stands prominently by the sea, and take in the coastal Corniche walkway. The day concludes with dinner at the hotel.

After breakfast, we depart for Rabat, Morocco’s capital. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided panoramic tour including the Royal Palace (Mechouar), the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the Mohamed V Mausoleum, and the Hassan Tower.

Following lunch (not included), we continue to Meknes, a former imperial city renowned for its grandeur under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Explore the impressive city walls, the ornate gates of Bab Mansour and Bab El-Khemis, the Royal Stables, and the Jewish Quarter. Next, we visit the ruins of the ancient Phoenician city of Volubilis and the holy town of Moulay Idriss before arriving in Fes.

After breakfast, we continue exploring the captivating city of Fes, which boasts over twelve centuries of history. The medina, Fes el Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the world’s oldest university. Its maze of narrow, car-free streets is alive with the sounds and scents of traditional crafts, spices, leather, and pastries.

We visit the Bou Inania and Medersa Attarine madrasas, both renowned for their stunning central courtyards. You will also see the Karaouiyine Mosque, the Nejjarine Fountain, and the bustling souks, including the famous tanners’ district where you can observe traditional leather-working techniques and capture vibrant photographs. br> Lunch is served at Riad Dar El Ghalia within the medina. During the visit, you will have the chance to experience a Moroccan tea ceremony accompanied by three types of pastries and learn about the history of a local Fes family.

After breakfast, we leave Fes and travel southwest towards Marrakech. The journey takes you through varied landscapes along the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, offering several opportunities for photo stops. We pass the charming mountain town of Ifrane, situated at 1,650 metres, and the Berber villages of Azrou and Khenifra. En route, we pause in Beni-Mellal, a town surrounded by orange and olive groves, popular with nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a full day at leisure in Marrakesh. Take the opportunity to wander through the city’s lively streets and soak up its unique atmosphere at your own pace.

You may choose to book an optional half-day spa experience, where you can indulge in a traditional Moroccan hammam at a charming riad in the medina (own expense). This treatment includes a body scrub using natural products known for their skin benefits, followed by a refreshing mint tea and a relaxing essential oil massage.

Dinner is served at the hotel, but if you prefer, you can arrange an optional Moroccan dinner in the medina to savour authentic local cuisine in the warm, inviting setting of a traditional riad (own expense).

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel in Marrakesh before departing for your onward journey. This marks the end of your time in the city, allowing you to reflect on the experiences and memories made during your stay.