Top 5 attractions to visit in Morocco
Morocco is fascinating country, so close to Europe, yet so different. Spain is just across the border from Morocco, yet there is a stark difference between the two countries.In this article we explore the top 5 attractions to visit in Morocco.
The country seems like stuck in the middle age, both economically and socially. That is maybe a bad news for the locals but not for travelers seeking exotic destinations. The country is changing fast though and it is good to visit now before a lot of old traditions go extinct.
For a relatively small sized country, Morocco has so much to offer. One can spend days wandering in the old medinas of Marrakech, Fes, Mekness; or colonial cities like Tanger and Tetouan. For nature lovers, one can enjoy the Mediterranean beaches in the north, Atlas Mountains in the centre, or sand dunes at the most western part of the great Sahara desert. For the lovers of culture, arts, music, and cuisine; the country offers an exotic mosaic rarely seen elsewhere.
should be getting money from the Moroccans because I’m just telling everyone that it’s a wonderful place to go.” Bill Murray, American actor
Attractions: The 4 imperial cities are all worth visiting (Marrakech, Fes, Mekness, and Rabat). Add to that Ouarzazate, and Chefchaouen. The top natural Attractions are Sahara desert near Merzouga with the surrounding Oasis villages in Dades Valley, Atlas Mountains, and Mediterranean beaches in the north.
Itinerary: For a 3 days trip, Marrakesh is a good choice. For a one week, one can add a trip to either the city of Fes or the desert in Merzouga passing by the high Atlas and Ouarzazate. For less than 2 weeks, one can add Meknes, Casablanca, and Chefchaouen. For more than 2 weeks, one can also Rabat, Essaouira, Agadir.
Top 5 Favorites
1. Marrakesh
The most popular tourist attraction in Morocco. Its main attractions are the main square known as Jemaa el-Fnaa, Menarat gardens, Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Gardens, and Bahia Palace. And many more museums and palaces.
2. Sahara desert
Yes you can see the western most part of the great Sahara desert in Morocco. From Marakesh, there are many tours that go to Merzouga desert. These tours pass some picturesque villages in the atlas mountains.
3. Fes
Fes and nearby Mekness are two former imperial cities which are an hour apart. Fes has been a cultural center in Morocco. Both have many things to see, especially the Moroccan architecture from Medinas, schools, to Palaces.
4. Chaouen
Chaouen, the bleu perl of the Rif mountains. It is known for its bleu painted and winding/narrow streets. Also known as a good spot to score some Moroccan hashish grown in the nearby mountains 🙂
5. Casablanca
Casablanca is much more known as a movie than a city. However it is actually one of the largest cities in Africa. It is also site to Hassan II mosque.
More Attractions
Tanger. A colonial city in the north, known for its relaxed and bohemian past. A mecca for artists and writers in the 20th century.
Agadir. More of a resort city with an authentic city and some great beaches nearby. Good weather year around.
Essaouira. Due to its proximity to Marrakesh gets a lot more tourists. It is known for strong winds which attracts windsurfers year around. Its fortified old city (medina), and art galleries and boutiques, atmospheric port, and upscale hotels and riads make a popular attraction.
Al Hoceima. Unknown outside of Morocco, it offers a quiet escape from cities busier in Morocco. A perfect place to relax and enjoy the pristine beaches year around, and tasty grilled sardines!
Source: http:/visit100countries.com
