Fes, Marrakech And Casablanca

Fes: The Cultural and Spiritual Heart (2-3 Days)

Start your journey in Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and its spiritual and cultural epicenter.

• Fes el-Bali: Prepare to step back in time in Fes el-Bali, the city’s ancient, walled medina. This sprawling, UNESCO-listed labyrinth is one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas, a maze of over 9,000 narrow alleyways, bustling souks, and hidden courtyards.

• The Tanneries: A visit to the famous Chouara Tannery is a must. From a vantage point on a leather shop terrace, you can watch the centuries-old process of hides being treated and dyed in large stone vats—a sight that is as pungent as it is iconic.

• Historic Madrasas: Fes is home to some of the most beautiful Islamic schools (madrasas) in Morocco. The Bou Inania Madrasa is a stunning example of Marinid architecture and one of the few religious sites in Fes open to non-Muslims. The Al-Attarine Madrasa is another architectural gem.

• Al-Quaraouiyine University: Founded in 859 AD, this is recognized by UNESCO as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. While non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, you can peek into its courtyard from the main gate.

• The Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud): This ornate gate serves as the grand main entrance to the medina and is a beautiful example of Moorish architecture, with its intricate blue tiles on the outside and green tiles on the inside.

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

From Fes, travel to Marrakech, a city that buzzes with an electrifying energy and a vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere. The journey can be made by train (which goes via Casablanca), bus, or a private car, taking several hours.

• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: This is the beating heart of Marrakech. By day, it’s a bustling square with snake charmers and fresh juice vendors. At night, it transforms into a massive open-air food market and a stage for storytellers, musicians, and performers.

• The Souks: Dive into the labyrinthine souks of the medina, a dazzling marketplace where you can find everything from spices and lanterns to leather goods and carpets.

• Palaces and Gardens:

  • Bahia Palace: A magnificent 19th-century palace showcasing the best of Moroccan craftsmanship with its intricate tilework and serene courtyards.

  • Jardin Majorelle: A tranquil botanical garden famously restored by Yves Saint Laurent, known for its striking cobalt blue accents.

• Koutoubia Mosque: The city’s most famous landmark, its impressive minaret has dominated the skyline for centuries.

Casablanca: The Modern Metropolis (1-2 Days)

Conclude your trip in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and its modern economic engine. The train from Marrakech to Casablanca is the most efficient way to travel, taking about 2.5 hours.

• Hassan II Mosque: Casablanca’s must-see attraction is this architectural marvel, the largest mosque in Africa. Situated dramatically on an outcrop over the Atlantic, it features a 210-meter-high minaret, the tallest in the world, and is one of the few mosques in Morocco that non-Muslims can enter on a guided tour.

• The Corniche: Stroll along the Boulevard de la Corniche, a modern beachfront promenade lined with restaurants, hotels, and beach clubs, offering a taste of the city’s cosmopolitan lifestyle.

• Habous Quarter (New Medina): A charming neighborhood built in the 1930s that blends French and Moroccan architectural styles. It’s a pleasant place to shop for handicrafts in a more relaxed atmosphere than the traditional souks.

• Rick’s Café: For a touch of cinematic history, visit the meticulously recreated Rick’s Café from the classic film Casablanca. It’s an elegant spot for dinner or a drink.