Best things to do in Morocco in 2023

Morocco is home to a vibrant alchemy of Maghrebi and Islamic history, culture and traditions, infused with European, Berber and Arabian influences. The buzzing streets of Casablanca and energetic souks of Marrakesh continue to attract millions of visitors. The revived coastal town of Tangier are the often overlooked capital, Rabat, are both growing as tourist destinations, and those looking for a seaside break will find golden sands and azure waters in resorts such as Agadir and Essaouira.

Outside of these hubs, the country’s natural beauty remains as impressive as ever, from the Atlas Mountains – the tallest peak in North Africa – to vast swathes of red desert dunes in Agafay or Zagora.

With Roman ruins, ancient villages and more to add to all of this, Morocco makes for a holiday destination that’s as diverse as it is fascinating – here are some ofthe best things to do during your visit.

See the capital

Rabatl has all the characteristics of a great Moroccan city, from an excellent medina quarter to a variety of souks. A calmer than Marrakesh or Casablanca, the capital welcomes less tourists but is an equally captivating place to visit, whether you’re strolling through the variety of green spaces (such as the Andalusian Gardens or the Botanical Gardens) or discovering the impressive array of historic sites, like the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.

The medina – the original walled city – is a good starting point. Its winding lanes are centred around the Old Market and streets such as Rue des Consuls and the Rue Souiqas (the main market area). The area is also home to monuments such as the Kasbah of the Udayas (a fortified part of the city) and the Grand Mosque. Next to the medina sits the Ville Nouvelle, a central part of the city that was built by the French during the protectorate (from roughly 1912 to the 1930s). Within this area are the other main landmarks, including the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Hassan Tower (the minaret of a 12th-century mosque). There’s also a beach under the shadow of the kasbah, a stretch of clean, fine sand – a great place to surf and bodyboard thanks to reliable waves.

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Explore Marrakesh