There is much more to see in Morocco than its great imperial cities, a fact that any traveler who has visited Morocco can attest to. Marrakech and Casablanca are probably the only two cities we hear about before coming to this magical country, while there are dozens of other Moroccan towns and villages that are worth visiting too! Morocco is an enchanting land that will make you want to are looking for a unique experience in its most beautiful, raw and authentic cities. What makes Morocco a great country to visit is that it offers different experiences from region to region. What you will encounter in one part of the country has nothing to do with what you will experience in another part only 100 km away! Northern Morocco is strongly influenced by Spanish culture and The architecture and the center of Morocco are influenced by that of the French. In short, Morocco is a melting pot of fascinating places to visit and an intriguing culture to see. Everything in the country is worth seeing; traditions, architecture, the old medinas, the landscapes, the food and the relaxed lifestyle of the natives. Explore the not so famous Moroccan cities will give you the chance to travel through the real authentic Morocco. Beauty can be found almost anywhere in Morocco, whether you are by the ocean, on a tour of Morocco, in the whitewashed seaside towns, or on a trip to the Moroccan desert… wherever you are in Morocco, it’s a beautiful destination. With that in mind, here is are 5 laid back, beautiful and authentic cities you should visit when you are in Morocco
Essaouira :
The windy city of Morocco, heavily fortified by golden stone walls surrounding the medina. Arab, African, Roman, and French civilizations have all impacted the city’s architecture and traditions, creating a mature and bohemian, yet elegant, beach town. Essaouira has its own ways of bringing down others, and if you fall you will have created a sort of umbilical connection with this place, a connection that will always keep you coming back to Essaouira to nurture your essence. My hippie soul always finds its way to Essaouira. A place to fish for lazy afternoon walks, salty hair and sunny face, bare feet, body swaying to Gnawa tunes and many nights of bonfires by the ocean . Essaouira’s medina has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique and distinct blend of Moroccan and European styles. Although it is common to hear that all the medinas in Morocco are the same, Essaouira’s medina is actually very different, in the sense that if you enter it, it is not as if you are trapped in a maze, so you won’t be worried. plenty of time to get lost and enjoy your time there on your day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira.
Chefchaouene :
Often referred to as the Pearl of the North, it really is the only place not to be missed during your stay in Morocco. Chefchaouen is truly the number one destination for those eager to explore exotic new destinations filled with history, culture and an array of quaint blue-washed doors. “Chaouen”, as the locals call it, is much more peaceful and loose than other Moroccan cities. What fascinates me the most in Chaouen is the simplicity and hospitality of its inhabitants. The pure smiles on their faces, their unique facial features, their modest lifestyle, everything about the locals soothes my soul. During their simple life, they make everyday life effortless. I like to sit in a cafe and watch the locals come and go. Sometimes I turn my camera and savor some of these moments, but most of the time I watch them go by and admire the unique and special life they lead, a life that has nothing in common with Western life. After moments of reflection, I start strolling through the whitewashed blue alleys again. This city sitting neatly within the mountains, is painted in 100 shades of blue, making every corner a different shade of blue. One of my favorite things to do in Chefchaouen is to watch the sunrise from the roof of my Riad, and I tell you the truth, Chaouen offers the most magical sunrise you will see during your stay in Morocco. As the sun rises from the horizon, casting ample light on the blue houses as the mountains loom majestically in the background; no words put together can accurately describe the charming view. I also like to climb the hill where the Spanish Mosque is located and enjoy my sunrise where a perfect view of the city unfolds. You
Zagora :
A town in southeastern Morocco, located in the Draa-Tafilalet region. It is situated on the edge of the Sahara Desert and is known for its beautiful landscapes and historical significance.The town of Zagora was once an important center of trade and commerce, serving as a gateway to the Sahara Desert. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique culture and natural beauty.One of the main attractions in Zagora is the Draa Valley, which is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Morocco. The valley is characterized by its lush palm groves, flowing rivers, and towering sand dunes. Visitors can explore the valley on foot or by camel, taking in the breathtaking scenery along the way. Another popular attraction in Zagora is the Tinfou Dunes, which are some of the largest sand dunes in Morocco. These towering dunes offer visitors a chance to experience the vastness and beauty of the Sahara Desert up close. In addition to its natural beauty, Zagora also has a rich history and cultural heritage. The town is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Kasbah of Amridil, which dates back to the 17th century. This impressive fortress is made entirely out of mud bricks and offers visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s rich architectural history.
Fes :
Fes is a city located in northern inland Morocco, often referred to as the country’s cultural capital. The city is known for its well-preserved old town, Fes el Bali, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fes is also home to the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 CE and considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world. The city has a rich history and has been a center of Islamic learning and culture for centuries.Fes el Bali is a labyrinthine medina (old town) with narrow streets and alleys that are inaccessible to cars. The medina is home to numerous historic mosques, madrasas (Islamic schools), and other landmarks, including the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Dar Batha Museum, and the Al-Attarine Madrasa. One of the most famous attractions in Fes el Bali is the tanneries, where leather is processed using traditional methods that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.Outside of the medina, Fes has a more modern section with wider streets and boulevards, as well as restaurants, cafes, and shops. The city also has several other historic sites worth visiting, such as the Royal Palace of Fes and the Borj Nord Museum. Overall, Fes is a fascinating destination for those interested in history, culture, and architecture. Its well-preserved old town and rich Islamic heritage make it a unique place to visit in Morocco.
Taroudant :
A forgotten city in the south located about 50 minutes from Agadir. As soon as you set foot in the city, you immediately feel sleepy and calm. An indifferent atmosphere spreads through its streets, its inhabitants and its fortified walls. The first thing that might surprise you Taroudant is where everyone uses bikes to get around the city. This not only makes it the cleanest and most environmentally friendly city In Morocco, but it also gives him this unique feeling, as if everything in this city is slowing down… as if it’s frozen in the past. Everything about Taroudant is absolutely true! Pretty much the right ingredients to make it a prime paradise for those looking for it The true authentic soul of Morocco, away from the crazy portable big cities.
Ouarzazate :
Located in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including the nearby Sahara Desert and the Draa Valley. Ouarzazate is also a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, earning it the nickname “the door of the desert.”The city has a rich history, dating back to prehistoric times. It was an important trading post on the caravan route between Marrakech and Timbuktu. In the 16th century, Ouarzazate was a center of resistance against Portuguese occupation.
Today, Ouarzazate is a bustling city with a population of around 80,000 people. It is home to several notable attractions, including the Ait Ben Haddou & Taourirt Kasbah , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Ouarzazate is also known for its film studios, which have been used to film many Hollywood blockbusters, such as Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. The Atlas Film Studios are located just outside the city and offer tours for visitors. Besides to its cultural and historical significance, Ouarzazate is an important economic center for southern Morocco. The city is home to several industries, including tourism, agriculture…etc
Agadir :
Is a city located in southwestern Morocco, on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. It is the capital of the Agadir-Ida Ou Tanane Prefecture and the region of Souss-Massa. The city has a population of approximately 700,000 people and covers an area of 67 square kilometers.Agadir is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant culture. The city has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times when it was inhabited by Berber tribes. In the 16th century, Agadir became an important trading post for European merchants who were interested in Moroccan goods such as gold, spices, and textiles. Agadir is home to a wide range of attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. Visitors can explore the city’s historic Kasbah, which offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. They can also relax on one of the city’s many beaches, which are known for their clear waters and pristine sand.In addition to its natural beauty, Agadir is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year that celebrate Moroccan music, dance, and cuisine. Visitors can also explore local galleries and museums that showcase traditional Moroccan art and artifacts.
Asilah :
Is one of the hidden gems of northern Morocco. A stunningly beautiful little town overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. In many ways, Asilah is the antithesis of several Moroccan imperial cities; and the reason for this may be because it is ruled by a slower, less hectic lifestyle. I always recommend new visitors to head straight to Asilah as it gives them the sweetest introduction to life in the Medina. I have always admired the nautical atmosphere and the one offered by Asilah with its location on the port side I really liked. The sound of the waves constantly crashing against the medina ramparts echoing through the quiet streets of the medina lulled me into falling in love with this city, and I couldn’t find the strength within me to leave. The melting pot of cultures that have owned this land has left traces that even hundreds of years have not been able to erase. And thankfully they have endured over time so we can see how they have combined to create a rich multicultural destination, reflecting Portuguese, Spanish, Andalusian and Moroccan style.
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