Morocco is a superb touristic country and one of the most popular tourist destinations out there. It is a very friendly tourist country and one that is sure to impress every traveler. It has stunning mountains, beautiful coastlines, old cities, exotic culture, and the vast sand dunes of the Sahara Desert.
In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular things to see and do in Morocco as well as some things to watch out for and etiquette.
Fez Or Fes
Fez is one of the largest cities in Morroco and one of the country's main tourist destinations. Fez is a very special city for a range of historical and architectural reasons and has been dubbed the "Mecca of the West" and the "Athens of Africa." Fez is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and an absolute must-see on any trip to Morocco. One of the main attractions of Fez is the Medina Of Fez.
Fez: The Facts
- Founded: 789 AD
- Population: 1.2 Million
- Top Attractions: Chouara Tannery, Blue Gate, Bou Inania Madrasa, Al Attarine Madrasa
Marrakech
Marrakech (or Marrakesh) is toward the south and inland in Morocco. It is the gateway to the Sahara. Here you will feel like you are in a traditional and an oasis desert city. Marrakech is well set up for tourism and its desert and Mediterranean architecture is a marvel to behold. The markets, food, and bazaars here are beyond compare.
One thing to keep in mind. In Morocco, if you want to take a picture of someone's shop or performance, it's expected to tip or at least buy something.
Marrakech: The Facts
- Population: Around 1 Million
- Experience: Camel Trekking In The Sahara
- Eat: Traditional Marrakech Food - Including Snails
- See: Snakes Charmers And Traditional Dances In The Central Square
- Buy: Traditional Moroccan Wares And Rugs
Tangier
Tangier is the bridge between Spain and Morocco, you can easily take ferries back and forth from here. Tangier has a very beautiful old city built around the old fortifications. Here you can see some of the best of Morrocan architecture and culture. Tangier is a coastal city and from the beaches, you can gaze across the mouth of the Mediterranean to Spain and Gibraltar around 15 miles away.
For a day trip, visit the Caves Of Hercules just 9 miles out of Tangier. These impressive cliff-side caves afford a great view of the mouth of the Mediterranean.
Tangier: The Facts
- Fun Fact: Tangier Was Near The Edge Of The Roman Empire
- Population: Around 1 Million
- Colonial History: Spanish (Most Of Morocco And The Rest Of The Cities In This List Were Colonised By France)
Casablanca
Casablanca is famous for the old-timey 1942 movie of the same name. This is a beautiful city and well worth a visit. As well as having a beautiful old city center, Casablanca is something of the New York of Morrocco and is the most important financial and productive city. Casablanca also has the busiest airport in the country. It is certainly worth spending a day or two in this historic city.
Casablanca: The Facts
- Status: Principle Moroccan Port And Largest City
- Population: Around 4 Million
- Fun Fact: Casablanca Is Spanish For "White House"
Rabat
Rabat is the capital city and is a little less touristy than the other cities. It is well worth a visit though. Here you can see the traditional markets and the old coastal castle. It is worth spending a day in the capital, Rabat.
Things To Watch Out For
While Morocco is a safe country, be wary of cellphone theft. Be careful about using your mobile phone on the street and if you do, try to use it away from the street and in your hand opposite the street. It is not uncommon for motorbikes to come down the street and snatch your phone out of your hand.
Tip: Keep Your Phone Away From The Street
If you are coming from California or many other states where weed is fully legal and available, just keep in mind Majiuania is technically illegal in Morocco. That being said it is everywhere in Morocco.
Tip: Majiuania Is Technically Illegal
Morocco is an Islamic country. In many Islamic countries, alcohol is illegal. But Morocco is relatively tolerant and alcohol is permitted. That being said the sale and consumption of alcohol are generally considered dishonorable. If you are in a Western-style hotel then there will be plenty of alcohol. But if you want to buy it in a shop, there are generally few alcohol shops. Also, it's advisable to drink it discreetly away from the street.
Tip: Be Discreet When Consuming Alcohol
One more thing to bear in mind. Morocco is a conservative society. It is generally not permitted to share your hotel room with a Moroccan you are not married to. If you are a foreigner traveling with your significant other, then there is no problem if you are not married.
Tip: Sharing Hotel Rooms With Moroccans Is Generally Not Permitted
In short, Morocco is absolutely stunning and hospitable country brimming with history and things to see and do. It is also a safe country. But like everywhere in the world, there are some things to keep in mind.