Imperial cities of Morocco: Rabat, Meknès, Fès & Marrakech

Morocco's coastal capital is an attractive city filled with history, culture and charm, offering visitors a much more easygoing atmosphere compared to the country's other major destinations. The bustling medina is the perfect place to shop for local wares, and there are a number of excellent museums and galleries to explore as well as a lovely beach. A must-see is the incredible Hassan Tower, and the ancient Kasbah, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the scenic Andalusian Gardens are well worth the stop too.

Fez is one of Morocco’s best known and most beloved cities, charming visitors with its vibrant culture, rich history and bustling atmosphere. The walled medina is the city’s beating heart, a maze of colourful streets where you can sample incredible street food, shop for artisan spices, leather and pottery and marvel at ancient mosques, beautiful squares and intricate doorways. Be sure to stop at the Al-Attarine Madrasa, a historic religious school from the 14th century, to admire its ornate tilework and stunning courtyard.

Morocco's largest city is a bustling hub for culture, creativity and modernity, boasting a collection of fine architecture and a number of interesting sights. A must-see is the Hassan II Mosque, its ornate minaret towering over the waterfront, and the maze-like medina is worth spending a day exploring. The city's downtown is home to a unique blend of Moorish and French colonial buildings and wide boulevards, and the cosmopolitan feel, thriving food scene and vibrant atmosphere here make it a truly delightful stop.

Marrakech has long been Morocco's top destination, attracting visitors who come to soak up its vibrant culture and be dazzled by its rich history and bustling atmosphere. Stroll through the labyrinthine medina and shop for traditional wares, sample local food at the Jemaa el-Fna square and marvel at the imposing Koutoubia Mosque and the ornate Bahia Palace, you won't be disappointed. The exotic Jardin Majorelle is also worth the visit, and Marrakech makes an excellent base for expeditions to the Sahara Desert and the nearby Atlas mountains.