7 Day Itinerary in Marocco

Morocco is a land of vibrant colors, rich history, and stunning landscapes. My one-week adventure took me from the bustling streets of Fes to the tranquil Sahara desert, with unforgettable stops in Marrakesh. Whether exploring ancient medinas, riding camels through the dunes, or discovering hidden gems, every moment in Morocco felt like a unique and magical experience.

Planning a trip to Morocco was an exciting challenge, especially deciding on the best route and destinations. To save €300, we opted for a flight into Fes instead of Marrakesh. The journey that followed turned out to be a perfect mix of history, culture, adventure, and stunning landscapes. Let me share the highlights of our week-long Moroccan adventure!

Day 1: Arrival in Fes – A Journey into History

We flew into Fes from Frankfurt Hahn, and our first day was all about immersing ourselves in the city’s rich history. Fes, one of Morocco’s most important cultural cities, was an ideal starting point for our trip.

Bab Boujeloud: We started our exploration with Bab Boujeloud, the iconic blue gate that marks the entrance to the medina. It’s the perfect place to begin wandering through Fes’ maze-like streets.
The Mellah: A visit to the Mellah, the Jewish quarter of Fes, offered a quieter, different side of the city. Here, narrow lanes, historic synagogues, and traditional houses gave us a glimpse into Fes’ diverse past.
The Medina of Fes: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Fes’ medina is one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Walking through its narrow alleys, we discovered a world of vibrant souks, stunning courtyards, and artisan workshops.
Royal Palace of Fes: We couldn’t enter the palace, but we marveled at its magnificent golden gates and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Chouara Tannery: The highlight of Fes for many visitors, the Chouara Tannery, was a sight to behold. Watching workers dye leather in huge vats of colorful dyes was one of the most memorable experiences in the city.

In the evening, we hopped on a flight to Marrakesh, eager for the next part of our journey.

Day 2-3: Marrakesh – The City of Life

Marrakesh is everything you’d expect from a Moroccan city—bustling, vibrant, and full of life. We spent two days exploring the city’s stunning sights.

El Badi Palace: Though in ruins, El Badi Palace still exudes grandeur. We wandered through its expansive courtyards, imagining its former glory.
ANIMA by André Heller: A peaceful escape from the busy city, this garden was full of sculptures and exotic plants. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for tranquility.
Bahia Palace: This palace is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture, with stunning courtyards, intricate tilework, and beautiful gardens.
Gueliz: For a modern taste of Marrakesh, we spent some time in Gueliz, the city’s contemporary district. Wide boulevards, trendy cafes, and boutique stores provided a contrast to the traditional medina.
Semmarine Market: No trip to Marrakesh is complete without visiting the Semmarine Market. We haggled for spices, textiles, and jewelry, getting caught up in the lively atmosphere of the souk.
Medersa Ben Youssef: The historic Islamic school was a must-see with its intricate tilework, peaceful courtyards, and impressive architecture.
Le Jardin Secret: A restored garden in the heart of Marrakesh, Le Jardin Secret was a perfect place to relax, surrounded by beautiful greenery and stunning design.
Place des Epices: This vibrant square, filled with shops selling spices, herbs, and local products, gave us a true sense of Marrakesh’s atmosphere.

Day 4-6: Sahara Desert Adventure – A 3-Day Journey

One of the highlights of our trip was the 3-day Sahara Desert tour. We left Marrakesh and traveled deep into the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara, experiencing some of Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Atlas Mountains & Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Our first day took us through the Atlas Mountains. We climbed the famous Tizi n’Tichka pass, offering panoramic views of the mountains below.
Ait Benhaddou: We visited the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified village known for its striking architecture and famous film appearances, like in Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
The Valley of Roses: The route led us through the Valley of Roses, known for its rose gardens that bloom most beautifully in spring.
Tinghir: We spent the night in Tinghir, a charming town near the Todra Gorge, a dramatic natural wonder with towering cliffs and a serene river.
Camel Ride in the Sahara: On the second day, we ventured deeper into the desert, where we rode camels into the heart of the Sahara. As the sun set, we arrived at our camp nestled between the dunes and enjoyed a Berber dinner under the stars.
Erfoud & Cedar Forests: On the last day, we passed through Erfoud and the cedar forests before heading back to Fes.

Day 7: Fes – A Final Exploration

On our last day, we revisited Fes’ medina to soak in the atmosphere one last time. Even though we had seen much of it already, there’s always something new to discover in Fes—whether it’s a hidden alley, a small shop, or a quiet courtyard.

Our week in Morocco was filled with unforgettable experiences—from the historical marvels of Fes and Marrakesh to the mesmerizing sands of the Sahara. It’s a country that offers so much, and I can’t wait to go back one day.