Morocco holidays

Popular holidays

Everything from great North African escapes to simple winter sun getaways are on the cards with Morocco holidays. The short 3.5-hour flight time from the UK and year-round sunshine tick the fly and flop box, too, all that’s left to do is figure out the best places to travel in Morocco.

Bustling cities and mountain backdrops

Step inside Morocco’s bustling souks, and you’ll soon see the appeal of holidaying in this varied destination. They open up a whole new type of travel (sensory travel, as we like to call it), with each market stool scented with spice and stacked high with silky handwoven tapestries. Elsewhere, Marrakech – nicknamed the Red City for its rust-coloured clay buildings – lines up maze-like streets, while the Atlas Mountains offer other-worldly hiking scenery. The Atlantic Coast showcases a different side, too – think laidback beach breaks with more peace and quiet than hustle and bustle. This area offers an escape from the intense heat in peak summer season, while those seeking winter sun often head inland for warmer temperatures in the cooler months.

Beach breaks in Agadir and Taghazout

Agadir and Taghazout are Morocco’s dynamic duo when it comes to sandy escapes. Agadir has a six-mile coastline, where you can lay out your towel and make the most of its blue skies – this premier holiday destination experiences a whopping 300 days of sun each year. Just hop on a flight to Agadir Al-Massira, and don’t forget the suncream. Taghazout, meanwhile, serves up authentic fishing village vibes. This coastal resort is popular with surfers, and is up and coming in the world of beach breaks. Both are within easy reach of the Souss-Massa National Park wildlife reserve, too. So, you can mix up sunbathing with bird-watching.

Marrakech: the Red City medina

Craving some sightseeing? Morocco’s historic Red City has you covered. The energy of the souks and bazaars pulses through this bustling marketplace, where you’ll find the famous UNESCO-listed Marrakesh Medina. Plus, head to the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square at night, and you’ll see smoke rise from late-night street food stalls that grill meats to fill hungry tummies. Marrakech city breaks aren’t just about shopping, either. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque for a taste of Moroccan culture, or swing by the Bahia and El Badi palaces to see ancient architecture. Top tip – greet locals with ‘salam’, which means peace, and use ‘shukran’ to say thank you.

Popular hotels in Morocco

Facts about Morocco

Capital

Rabat

Currency

Moroccan Dirham

(MAD)

Population

31,951,412

Language

Arabic, Berber and French

Time zone

GMT +0

Flight duration

3 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutes from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Morocco?

When visiting Morocco, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas by covering shoulders and knees. During Ramadan, eating discreetly during daylight hours is considerate, and greeting locals with "as-salaam-alaikum", meaning peace be upon you, is appreciated. When entering someone's home, removing your shoes is customary, and using your right hand for eating or passing items shows respect.

What travel adapter do I need for Morocco?

When visiting Morocco, bring a European-style two-pin plug adapter Type C or Type E. Most Moroccan sockets accept this type. While some upscale hotels may have UK-style three-pin sockets, it's best to pack an adapter to ensure you can charge your devices everywhere.

What should I pack for Morocco?

For Morocco, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring medinas and markets. Bring sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sunny days. Include loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees for visiting mosques, a light scarf for women, and layers for cooler evenings in desert areas.

What are the best beaches in Morocco?

Morocco has Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines with varied beach experiences. Agadir offers long stretches of sand with watersports and beachfront cafés. Essaouira features a historic medina backdrop and steady winds ideal for windsurfing. Taghazout is known for its relaxed atmosphere and surf breaks.

Where are the best places to shop in Morocco?

Morocco offers diverse shopping experiences, from traditional souks to modern malls. You'll love exploring the vibrant medinas of Marrakech and Fez for authentic crafts, spices, and textiles. For a mix of traditional and contemporary shopping, Casablanca's Morocco Mall and Rabat's Mega Mall offer international brands alongside local products.

What's the nightlife like in Morocco?

Morocco's nightlife varies by city and location. In tourist areas and major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca, you'll find a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Many hotels and resorts offer evening entertainment. For a more traditional experience, we recommend enjoying a Moroccan tea in a local café or watching a folklore show.

Where can I try local food in Morocco?

Traditional Moroccan cuisine can be found throughout the country. We recommend trying local restaurants, known as 'riads', in the medinas of cities like Fez or Marrakech. Many resorts also offer authentic Moroccan dishes. Don't miss trying tagine, couscous, and mint tea for a true taste of Morocco.

Should I tip in Morocco?

Tipping in Morocco is common and appreciated for good service. It is common to leave 10 to 15% of the bill at restaurants, and hotel staff and taxi drivers typically receive a small amount. Rounding up the fare or leaving loose change is typical for drivers and porters.

What should I wear in Morocco?

In Morocco, wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, especially in conservative areas and religious sites. Choose light fabrics like cotton or linen for the warm climate. Women should bring a lightweight scarf for additional coverage when needed.