Imperial Cities of Morocco

Arrive in Casablanca and spend the night. The following day meet up with your group and enjoy a Casablanca city tour, including the majestic Hassan II Mosque. (D) 

See Day 1 for today's itinerary. (B)(D)

After breakfast head to Rabat, the capital of Morocco and enjoy a guided city tour. After lunch, arrive in Meknès for a tour of this former imperial capital. Such was the grandeur of city Meknes that it became known as the ‘city of a hundred minarets’ and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue on towards Fes, passing the ruins of the ancient Phoenician city of Volubilis. (B)(D)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out to explore the fascinating city of Fès. Boasting more than 12 centuries of history Fès is a city renowned for the splendour of its faded glory. The Medina, Fes el Bali, is a vast labyrinthine network of winding alleys hemmed in by ancient walls. Despite being car-free, the bustle, noise, shouting, smell of tanned leather, delicate aroma of oriental perfumes, barbecues and sweet pastry create a sense of movement and vibrancy that draws you deep into its soul. After lunch continue through the rustic narrow streets of the Mellah, the former Jewish district, and head to the outskirts to see the Royal Palace and to enjoy the extraordinary panoramic view of the city. Return to the hotel for dinner. (B)(D)

Depart Fès after breakfast at the hotel, heading southwest towards Marrakech. Today’s road journey provides an enormous range of landscapes and allows for enticing photo stops as we drive along the foothill of the Atlas Mountains. Pass the mountain town of Ifrane (1,650m altitude), the Berber villages of Azrou and Khenifra, making a stop in Beni-Mellal for lunch. Arrive in Marrakech and check in to your hotel. (B)(D)

Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a city tour. Admire the magnificent Koutoubia mosque, whose 70 metre-high minaret is the city’s most famous landmark. Behold the beautiful Bahia Palace with its exceptional cedar and marble decorations and discover the beautifully decorated Saadian Tombs before wandering in the shaded retreat that is the Agdal Gardens, where groves of citrus, fig, apricot and pomegranate trees are linked by paths lined by olive trees.

After lunch in the hotel, continue to the walled Medina and its maze of alleys and side streets. Browse the souks and admire the rich craftsmanship of their wares before arriving at Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the beating heart of Marrakech. Marvel at this bustling hive of activity as the sun sets over this vast space packed with stalls and heaving with snake charmers, Gnawa musicians and myriad colourful characters. Also, enjoy a visit to a Moroccan herbalist where you can purchase quality herbal products and remedies, a traditional way for curing and improving ailments.

Return to the hotel for dinner with a folkloric show in an old palace in the Medina of Marrakech (optional). (B)(L)

Breakfast at the hotel is followed by a day at leisure to explore Marrakech as you wish. Perhaps take part in one or more of our recommended optional excursions. (B)(D)

Check out after breakfast at the hotel or opt for a longer stay by selecting one of our extensions, such as an extended stay in Marrakech or a beach extension in the lovely seaside town of Agadir. (B)