Things to Do in Morocco

A cultural melting pot and one of Morocco’s most unique cities, Tangier’s cosmopolitan roots date back to the post-WWII years, when the city was designated as an “International Zone” co-governed by France, Spain, Britain, and six other countries. Today, the European influence remains, from the elegant French architecture of the Ville Nouvelle (New Town) to the French and Spanish that are spoken alongside the native Arabic, and its strategic location on the Strait of Gibraltar draws a constant stream of cruise visitors and expatriates.

Few visitors fail to be enchanted by the White City of Tangier, so-called for the row upon row of whitewashed buildings that line its streets, as it’s a city that oozes character. With its buzzing port, sun-soaked beaches, colorful art galleries and cluster of hookah cafés, Tangier’s bohemian vibe is alive and well, and it’s easy to see why so many iconic figures have visited—Tennessee Williams, William S. Burroughs, Truman Capote and of course, the Rolling Stones have all been inspired by its magic. 

Marking the boundary between the historic Old Medina and the new town built during the 20th century French rule, United Nations Square is not only one of Casablanca’s busiest public squares, but one of its most important navigational landmarks, fed by many of the city’s principal boulevards. Laid out in 1920 by Joseph Marrast, the former marketplace was initially dubbed La Place de France and along with the nearby Mohamed V Square, forms the nucleus of the modern city center, now linked by the a new tramway.

Despite being encircled by a glut of bank headquarters and office blocks, the square is still an elegant example of urban town planning, with its neat gardens set around a striking central fountain. Additional landmarks of the square include the futuristic Zevaco-designed cupola that frames the underpass, the swish Hyatt Regency hotel and the Anglican Church of St John.

The town of Zagora is located in Morocco's Draa River Valley, in the southeastern part of the country near Mount Zagora in the Little Atlas Range.

The main attractions in Zagora are the remains of an 11th century Almoravid fortress on Mount Zagora and the sign at one end of town that indicates that it would take 52 days to reach Timbuktu by camel or on foot. You can take camel treks from Zagora, or hike up into the mountains. There is a colorful and bustling market on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Stretching along the high Jebel Zerhoun plateau in northern Morocco and blooming with wildflowers throughout the summer months, the Roman ruins of Volubilis are a striking sight. Renowned as the best-preserved ruins in Northern Africa, the archaeological site offers a unique glimpse into ancient Morocco and makes a popular day trip from nearby Meknes or Fez.

Initially founded as a Carthaginian settlement in the 3rd century B.C., Volubilis became an important Roman town from around 25 BC and later, the administrative center of the province of Mauretania Tingitana, producing and exporting commodities like grain and olive oil to Rome. Today, the ruins are conserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site and feature the ruins of a series of houses, temples, olive mills and public buildings, surrounded by the remnants of the city defense walls. The most notable highlights include the beautifully preserved Triumphal Arch of Caracalla, built to commemorate the death of the Roman Emperor in 217 AD and a series of exquisite mosaics preserved in situ.

A hike through the picturesque Todgha Gorge offers travelers spectacular valley views of the sheer red rock faces Morocco is famous for. Visitors can navigate the picturesque canyon where the final 600 meters offer intrepid trekkers a narrow pass between towering stone walls that is truly awe inspiring. 

In addition to easy hiking trails options ranging from the mostly dry riverbed to the easy paved road, travelers will find more than 150 well-marked rock climbing routes bolted into the mountain side, making Todgha Gorge one of the nation’s premier destinations for those looking for a scramble that’s strictly vertical.

Housed in a beautifully restored riad (a structure built around a courtyard), tucked between the Bahia and Dar Si Said palaces, the Tiskiwin Museum (Maison Tiskiwin) fascinates visitors. Crammed with North African art, handicrafts, and artifacts, the Tiskiwin collection immerses visitors in the region’s vibrant cultural history.

 

The museum’s permanent exhibits are the personal collection of Dutch anthropologist Bert Flint. Displays are organized geographically, with each room marking a destination along the ancient Saharan trade route from Marrakech to Timbuktu. The colorful objects on display include hand-woven carpets and textiles, traditional Berber clothing and jewelry, intricate basketwork, and tribal handicrafts. Among the highlights are a re-creation of a Berber encampment, examples of Saharan headwear, and an impressive collection of Moroccan artworks.

 

 

The museum is located at the south end of the medina, close to the Bahia Palace. From Jemaa el-Fna square, it’s about 10 minutes’ walk: Head south along Zitoun Jdid and look out for the signs. If you’re taking a taxi, it’s easiest to ask for the Bahia Palace.

 

The museum is open daily, year-round, but it is closed for lunch from 12:30pm to 2:30pm.

 

Most of Marrakech’s museums can be found in the medina and are within walking distance of the Tiskiwin Museum. The Museum of Marrakech houses Moroccan art and artifacts, while the Photography Museum displays impressive photos of historic Marrakech, and the Museum of the Palmery combines beautiful gardens with traditional art. Outside the medina, the Berber Museum in the Majorelle Garden is also worth a visit.

Built in the 9th-century to house the tomb of Moroccan ruler and city founder Moulay Idriss II, the Zaouia de Moulay Idriss II was completely restored in the 14th century and now stands as the city’s holiest shrine. The shrine is an important place of pilgrimage for Moroccans, who believe that its blessings can bring good luck and fertility.

Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the mausoleum, but it’s worth a look if only to admire the elaborate exteriors, including exquisite wooden arches, carved plasterwork and an ornately tiled mzara, where alms are passed through a brass slot. A peek through the door offers a glimpse of the richly decorated tomb, often surrounded by freshly lit candles and incense.