Combined Marrakech-Casablanca

Marrakech: The Vibrant Red City (2-3 Days)

Begin your journey in the magical city of Marrakech, a place that captivates the senses with its history, colors, and energy.

• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: This is the beating heart of Marrakech. During the day, it’s a bustling square with snake charmers, street performers, and fresh juice vendors. As evening falls, it transforms into a massive open-air food market, filling the air with the scent of grilled meats and spices.

• The Medina and Souks: Get lost in the UNESCO-listed Medina, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways. Here you’ll find the souks, sprawling markets where you can shop for everything from colorful spices and traditional leather slippers (babouches) to handcrafted lanterns and carpets.

• Historic Palaces and Gardens:

  • Bahia Palace: A breathtaking 19th-century palace that showcases the best of Moroccan architecture and artisanship with its intricate tilework and serene courtyards.

  • Jardin Majorelle: An enchanting botanical garden once owned by designer Yves Saint Laurent. Its iconic cobalt blue accents create a tranquil and picturesque oasis.

• Koutoubia Mosque: The city’s most famous landmark, its impressive minaret has watched over Marrakech for over 800 years. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself, its exterior and gardens are a must-see.

Journey from Marrakech to Casablanca

Traveling between the two cities is straightforward, with the 240-kilometer (about 150 miles) journey offering several convenient options.

• Train: The most popular and efficient way to travel. The train journey takes about 2.5 hours, offering a comfortable and scenic ride.

• Bus: Services like CTM offer a reliable and affordable alternative, with a travel time of around 3.5 hours.

• Car or Private Taxi: Renting a car or hiring a private driver provides the most flexibility, allowing you to travel at your own pace. The drive along the highway is direct and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Casablanca: The Modern Metropolis (2 Days)

Arrive in Casablanca, a city that blends a rich colonial legacy with modern ambition. While it may feel more like a business hub than a tourist city, it holds several impressive sights.

• Hassan II Mosque: This is Casablanca’s undisputed masterpiece and an absolute must-visit. As the largest mosque in Africa, it is a stunning example of Moroccan craftsmanship, with a 210-meter-high minaret that is the tallest in the world. Situated dramatically on an outcrop over the Atlantic Ocean, it’s one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims for guided tours.

• The Corniche: Stroll along the Boulevard de la Corniche, Casablanca’s beachfront promenade often referred to as Morocco’s “Miami”. It’s lined with restaurants, hotels, and beach clubs, offering a modern, cosmopolitan vibe.

• Mohammed V Square: The city’s central plaza, featuring grand administrative buildings that showcase French colonial architecture.

• Old Medina and Habous Quarter: While not as vast as Marrakech’s, Casablanca’s Old Medina offers a glimpse into the city’s pre-colonial past. Nearby, the Habous Quarter (or New Medina) is a charming area built in the 1930s that blends traditional Moroccan and French architectural styles.

• Rick’s Café: For a touch of cinematic nostalgia, consider visiting Rick’s Café, a meticulous recreation of the famous bar from the movie Casablanca. It’s a popular spot for dinner or a drink in an elegant, atmospheric setting.