If you are looking for a holiday with a unique vibe, Morocco should be on your list. We spent 2 weeks discovering this country and all it offers and were pleasantly surprised. The old buildings, the smell of fresh herbs and spices, the friendliness of the people, and the beautiful mosaics you’ll find everywhere made this one of those holidays to never forget.
We have created this 2-week itinerary in Morocco for Independent Travellers that will show you the best Morocco has to offer. Rent a car or go by public transport, and have the flexibility to stop wherever you want.
In this article, we will show you how to visit Morocco in 2 weeks.
Two-Week Itinerary in Morocco for Independent Travellers
- Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca
- Day 2: Visit Casablanca
- Day 3: Travel from Casablanca in the Morning and visit Rabat
- Day 4: Visit more of Rabat and take a cooking class
- Day 5: Travel to Fes
- Day 6: Visit Fes
- Day 7: Take a day trip to Meknes or Chefchaouen
- Day 8: Travel to Marrakech
- Day 9 & 10: Visit Marrakech
- Optional Day 11: day trip to Cascade d’Ouzoud
- Day 12: Travel to Valle de Dades with stop in Ouarzazate & Aid Ben Haddou
- Day 13: Merzouga & night in Deser
- Day 14: Return to Marrakech
Casablanca – 2 days
Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca – Day 2: Visit Casablanca
We were supposed to travel by car and public transport but due to a miscommunication, we travelled by train the entire trip. Though, whatever way you want to travel around, start in Casablanca!
Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and most airlines offer flights to and from this city. It is in fact, the perfect start and end of this 2-week itinerary for Morocco. It gives you a chance to settle in and get used to a new country, its culture, and its people.
Frankly, Casablanca is not the city with the most charm but if you do decide to visit, make sure to include a trip to the Hassan II Mosque. You can also take a city tour like this one or this one.
What to do in Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque – This is the 7th largest mosque in the world and the largest functioning mosque in Africa. It has space for 105,000 worshippers, 25,000 inside, and the remaining 80,000 on the outside. – Opening Times: Check the timetable here
Entrance Fee: 130 Dh for foreigners
Morocco Mall – Experience shopping in one of Africa’s largest shopping centres, which also offers entertainment options like an IMAX theatre and an indoor aquarium.
Old Medina and Corniche – Stroll through the old medina to get a feel for Casablanca’s history and then head to the Corniche for a relaxing walk along the beachfront.
Where to stay in Casablanca
Budget / Hotel Central: Located in the heart of the Old Medina, this hotel offers simple yet comfortable rooms with traditional Moroccan decor.
Luxury / Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca: Situated on the oceanfront, this hotel offers stunning sea views, a luxurious spa, and refined dining options.
Getting to Rabat next
Travel from Casablanca to Rabat by train, which takes about 1 hour. Trains are frequent, comfortable, and offer a scenic route along the coast.
Rabat – 2 days
Day 3: Travel from Casablanca in the Morning and visit Rabat – Day 4: Visit more of Rabat and take a cooking class
Rabat is the capital of Morocco and we liked this imperial city the best. If you’re looking for an authentic experience, Rabat is the place to go. The medina is filled with locals doing their groceries instead of tourists looking for a good deal.
Take 2 full days to explore Rabat because there is a lot to see and do other than wandering through the medina and enjoying the local food. On the first day, visit the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V which are situated in the Jardin Tour Hassan. Start your second day exploring the Oudaias Kasbah and head to the beach.
If you need a guide, check out this private half-day guided walking tour of Rabat or this one. Alternatively, you may want to join a Local food walking tour or even a Moroccan Cooking class!
What to do in Rabat
Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohamed V – The Hassan Tower is the minaret of an unfinished mosque. It was supposed to become the largest minaret in the world but when the commissioner died construction stopped and never restarted. It feels a bit strange, this large square with one minaret but that’s part of its charm.
The Mausoleum is beautifully decorated and worth a visit. Just remember to dress modestly, there is a dress code. It’s a popular attraction so it’s worth it to visit the Mausoleum early in the day to escape the crowd.
Oudaias Kasbah – Start your second day exploring the Oudaias Kasbah. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On arrival there might be people offering their services as a guide, just remember they expect to get paid. Some of them can be very persistent and if you don’t need their services just keep saying no.
We explored the kasbah by ourselves and just wandered through the streets enjoying the decorated streets and houses. It’s a smaller version of Chefchaouen and has a greek vibe to it. Because it is situated on the cliffs, you’ll be treated to some pretty amazing views as well.
Where to stay in Rabat
Luxury / Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses: Set in imperial gardens, the Sofitel offers a tranquil retreat with top-notch facilities including a spa, three gourmet restaurants, and a scenic outdoor pool.
Budget / Riad Dar Zouhour: A traditional riad located in the medina, offering a quiet courtyard, beautifully decorated rooms, and easy access to historic sites. It’s great for travelers seeking a charming and budget-friendly option.
Getting to Fes Next
Take a train from Rabat to Fes. The journey lasts about 2-3 hours and offers insights into the varied landscapes of Morocco.
Fes – 3 days
Day 5: Travel to Fes – Day 6: Visit Fes – Day 7: Take a day trip to Meknes or Chefchaouen
Fes is famous for its walled medina. Most accommodations are in the heart of the medina and you will find tons of people at the wall to guide you through your destinations. They expect to be paid, so keep that in mind. The medina of Fes is like a maze and it’s easy to get lost, so a little help is welcome.
Spend 2 full days exploring Fes because there is a lot to do. Pay a visit to the open-air tannery, explore a former Islamic university and enjoy the local food at one of the rooftop restaurants. You can join this half-day private walking tour with a guide to the Jewish quarter, the Madrasa, Tanneries, etc.
What to do in Fes
Chouara Tanneries – This open-air tannery is a must if you visit Fes. The smells are terrible, so bring some mint or something else with you to cover the smell. But to watch all the basins with the different colours and learn about processing leather is something else.
Tips: You’ll end up in the stores after the Tannery visit and locals will let you think you need to buy something, but don’t fall for it. Also, while you walk around Fes, don’t respond to people offering to take you to the tanneries because they will ask a lot of money for their services.
Bou Inania Madrasa & Al-Attarine Madrasa – If you want to know what a university used to look like you have two options in Fes: the Bou Inania Madrasa & Al-Attarine Madrasa. There is no one better than the other, both are truly stunning and deserve a visit. Opening Times: 9 am – 6 pm (Al-Attarine Madrasa opens at 8 am)
The mosaics that you will see everywhere in combination with the high walls make you feel small. Walking through the building and imagining people going to school here while living here makes this visit extra special.
Take a day trip from Fes
If you want to extend your trip or have some free time, Fes is a great place to base yourself and take a couple of day trips to Chefchaouen or Meknes. You can either drive there yourself as part of your itinerary or join a guided tour.
Chefchaouen is about 200km north of Fes towards Tangier. It is known as the Blue Pearl due to its distinctive blue-washed buildings. If driving is too far for you or doesn’t fit really well in your itinerary, join this day trip from Fes. It is only €35 per person.
Meknes is one of the 4 imperial cities of Morocco and only 64km west of Fes (toward Rabat). You can easily add a stop here from Rabat… Although, a bit further up North, don’t miss the beautiful archaeological site of Volubis. This guided day trip from Fes, will take you to both sites for only €35 also.
Where to stay in Fes
Luxury / Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux: Offers a luxurious stay with stunning interior design reflecting Moroccan heritage, alongside modern amenities, a rooftop terrace, and a pool.
Budget / Riad Taha: A cozy riad that captures the essence of Fes with its traditional architecture and decor. It provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere and personalized service at a very reasonable price.
Getting to Marrakech Next
Opt for a direct flight from Fes to Marrakech, which takes about 1 hour, or a train journey which can take up to 7 hours but provides more sights of the countryside.
Marrakech – 3 days
Day 8: Travel to Marrakech – Day 9 & 10: Visit Marrakech – Optional Day 11: day trip to Cascade d’Ouzoud
You can’t go to Morocco and skip Marrakech. This is the biggest of the imperial cities and there is a lot to do. There are several day trips you can take from Marrakech so you may want to spend a bit more time in Marrakesh than in the other cities.
Visit the Jardin Majorelle, eat at Jemaa el-Fna, buy your souvenirs in the souks and just wander around to take in all the colours and smells.
What to do in Marrakech
Jardin Majorelle – If you’re looking for a break and want to get away from the city vibes, head to Jardin Majorelle. This park is an oasis in Marrakech with all kinds of exotic flowers and plants. The buildings are a unique kind of blue that really makes them stand out from the greenery. Opening Times: 8 am – 6 pm (changes depending on the season) – Entrance Fee: 70 Dh for the gardens + 30 Dh for the Museum – Website
Fun Fact: The Majorelle Gardens hold the name of a French Orientalist painter (Jacques Majorelle) who commissioned the cubist house found in the centre of the garden and then painted in a very special shade of blue nowadays known as the Majorelle Blue.
Jemaa el-Fna – Go to Jemaa el-Fna at different times of the day to get the full experience. The square is bustling at night with food stands, actors, and all kinds of stalls. During the day you have time to enjoy the buildings around the square.
There are plenty of restaurants with rooftops and this is a great place to grab dinner at night in Marrakech. You are a spectator of the business on the square and it’s the best place to watch a sunset.
El Badi Palace – This beautiful Moroccan palace was built in the 16th century and offers a glimpse into what life was like at the height of the city’s glory. It used to be called the 8th wonder of the world. Wander around the grounds and imagine this palace in its former glory. Opening Time: Everyday / 9 am – 5 pm – Entrance Fee: 20 dh – Website for more information
>>> For more things to do in Marrakech… Check out our dedicated article about the Highlights of Marrakech – What to Do and See for 2 days in Marrakech
Where to Stay in Marrakech
Luxury / Riad Palais Sebban: Beautifully restored and exquisitely decorated, this riad combines traditional Moroccan architecture with luxurious modern amenities. It features a stunning courtyard pool, a rooftop terrace with views of the medina, and intricately detailed rooms.
Budget / Riad Miski: This cosy riad offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the bustling city. Guests can enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere, a rooftop terrace for relaxing, and traditional Moroccan hospitality at an affordable price.
For more recommendations on where to stay in Marrakech, make sure to read our article about the 10 Best Riads in Marrakech.
Getting to Merzouga Next
From Marrakech, you can either rent a car and organise your own trip into the Sahara desert, or join a guided tour to Merzouga. The journey takes about 9 hours by road, passing through the High Atlas Mountains and several Berber villages. Tours make this trip a 3 days, 2 nights experience which we can only recommend.
Cascades d’Ouzoud – optional day trip
You could plan a day trip to Cascades d’Ouzoud (Ouzoud Waterfalls) or stop there for a night if you are travelling by car.
The waterfalls are about 150 km from Marrakech and are one of the best places to visit in South Morocco. There are several layers to visit so expect to do some climbing. There is a boat tour at the lowest level that takes you as close as possible to the waterfall.
The views on the higher levels of the waterfalls are spectacular and the climb is worth it. Bring plenty of water as it can get very hot and make sure to wear solid shoes because the trail is sandy and it is easy to slip. There are a couple of restaurants at different levels of the waterfall to grab a bite to eat.
Merzouga – 3 days
Day 12: Travel to Valle de Dades with stop in Ouarzazate & Aid Ben Haddou – Day 13: Merzouga & night in Deser – Day 14: Return to Marrakech
The best place to go if you want to visit the desert during your trip to Morocco is Merzouga. It’s a bit of a drive so most people go on a 3 days-2 nights road trip stopping on the way in Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou and the Dades Valley. If you don’t have a car you can take a bus from Marrakech (or Fes) but the best is still to join an organised tour from Marrakech (Private option)
Merzouga is the entrance of the Sahara desert and is called the “wonderland of sand“. Ride a camel, go sandboarding, watch the stars and enjoy the Berber lifestyle for a day or two. This is surely a unique experience to complete your 2-weeks itinerary in Morocco.
>>> Check out our dedicated on what to expect on a 3-day/2-night Sahara Desert Private Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga.
What to do in Merzouga
Camel Trekking – A visit to Merzouga would not be complete without a camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes. These gentle creatures are an integral part of desert life and offer a traditional way to explore the vast, sun-soaked landscapes. Most tours start in the late afternoon, allowing travellers to ride along the dunes as the sun sets, casting an orange glow over the sand. The trek usually ends at a desert camp where you can spend the night under the stars.
Embracing the Berber Lifestyle – During your stay at a Berber camp, you will enjoy traditional Berber music and dance, try local dishes like tagine cooked over an open fire, and learn about the Berber way of life.
Stargazing – The clear skies and minimal light pollution in the desert create ideal conditions for stargazing. After the sun sets, the sky lights up with countless stars, offering a spectacular view of the Milky Way.
Going home
Most tours to Merzouga can drive you back to either Marrakech or Fes, from where you can catch a plane back home. If you need to return to Casablanca, flying is the best option as the distance is quite long from Marrakech. Alternatively, you can reverse your journey with a combination of bus and train through major hubs like Errachidia and Meknes.
Where to stay in morocco
If you are looking for an authentic experience, stay at a riad. These traditional Moroccan houses or palaces come with an indoor garden and courtyard and are one of the cheapest places to spend the night while in Morocco. Most of the time the bedrooms are located on the second floor while the common areas are on the first floor. A lot of riads have rooftops where breakfast is served.
Some even have a pool to cool down after wandering around the city. The rooms are usually cool and dark and you wouldn’t think you are in the middle of a big city. Most roads are beautifully decorated with lots of mosaics and lots of plants as well.
>>> You can also stay in a luxury hotel or Airbnb around Morocco… Here is an article we put together about the Best Places to Stay in Morocco.
Things to keep in mind
One of the things to keep in mind is that most people speak Arabic or French in Morocco, especially if you are in smaller cities or less touristy areas. A lot of information is in French and this is the best way to communicate with local people. Although, in Marrakech, most locals will speak perfect English.
Dress modestly while visiting Morocco, especially when visiting mosques. Most people are Muslim and dress conservatively. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered. This way you don’t have to worry about sunburn either.
Learn to haggle. We struggled a bit with this in the beginning, but it’s expected and you will pay too much if you don’t do this. Try it and you might even like it if you are successful! In places you are not allowed to haggle, you will find signs stating it is a fixed price.
We said it a couple of times already, but a lot of people offer their services as guides… Most likely it will cost you a lot of money and you won’t end up where you want to go. Most cities have guides that wear official name tags, so if you need a guide go to an official tourist information office. You can also book walking tours online here.
Are you planning a trip to Morocco?
We have a lot of articles about travelling in Morocco and add new ones every so often. Check out our latest guides below to prepare for your trip…
- Highlights Of Marrakech: What To Do In Two Days
- The Best Riads in Marrakech – From Budget To Luxury Stays
- Marrakech To Merzouga – Sahara Desert Tour: What to Expect
- The Perfect Weekend in Essaouira: What to Do and See
- 20 Best Places To Visit In South Morocco
- Beautiful Places to Stay in Morocco
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Thank you for the amazing info!