The Ultimate Travel Itinerary Through Cities, Desert & Coast♥︎
Morocco is a country that overwhelms and fascinates at the same time. Over 14 days, you move through completely different worlds, from vibrant cities and ancient medinas to quiet mountain villages, the endless Sahara Desert, and the Atlantic coast. Every stop feels unique, with its own rhythm, colors, and energy. It’s a journey full of contrasts, where chaos and calm exist side by side, and where the best moments often happen in between destinations.
a two-week journey through morocco’s living contrasts
Morocco is located in North Africa, at the crossroads between Africa and Europe. It lies on the continent’s northwestern edge, with the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the north. Across the Strait of Gibraltar, Spain is only about 14 kilometers away.
This unique position creates a rich mix of Arab, Berber, African, and European influences that you can see in the architecture, food, language, and daily life. It also gives Morocco an incredible variety of landscapes within a relatively small area, from coastal cities and fertile valleys to the Atlas Mountains and the vast Sahara Desert.
For most travelers starting a 14-day itinerary, flying into Marrakech or Casablanca is the easiest choice. Both cities are well connected and make ideal starting points for exploring the country, whether you plan a road trip, take trains, or join guided tours.
Flying is by far the easiest and fastest way to get to Morocco. There are direct flights from many European cities to destinations like Marrakech, Casablanca, Fes, and Tangier. Flight times are usually between 2-4 hours, making Morocco a very accessible destination even for shorter trips.
For a 14-day itinerary, arriving in Marrakech or Casablanca works best, as both cities are well connected and ideal starting points for your route.
If you’re already in southern Spain, taking the ferry is a great and slightly more adventurous option. Routes like Tarifa to Tangier are fast (around 1 hour) and give you a unique arrival experience by sea.
It’s a great choice if you’re planning to combine Spain and Morocco in one trip or want more flexibility with a rental car.
Prices vary depending on the route and number of people. A car + 1 person usually costs between €100 and €250.
Arriving by Car (via Spain + Ferry)?
Traveling by car is possible, but always involves a ferry crossing from Spain. Many travelers choose this option for a full road trip experience, especially when exploring multiple regions in Morocco. However, you can also rent a car in Morocco at a reasonable price.
After arriving in Marrakech, we picked up our rental car and drove straight towards the Agafay Desert. Just about an hour outside the city, the landscape already feels completely different, dry, rocky, and surprisingly quiet.
👉 Tip: If you’re renting a car, it’s best to carefully check the reviews for the location, in this case, Marrakech. We rented our car from Alamo at Marrakech airport and were very, very satisfied.
The Agafay Desert lies just outside Marrakech and offers a completely different kind of desert experience. Instead of endless sand dunes, you’ll find a rocky, almost moon-like landscape that feels wild, quiet, and surprisingly remote.
It’s the perfect escape from the city, especially for a first night in Morocco, with peaceful surroundings, soft sunsets, and a unique desert atmosphere without having to travel far.
We stayed at BE Agafay and can absolutely recommend it. You can book it on their official website.
From the desert, we continued into the Atlas Mountains towards the Ourika Valley. This area feels much greener and more local, with small villages, rivers, and mountain views along the way.
It’s the perfect contrast after the desert and a great place to slow down.
👉 Good to know: The area around the river and waterfall is very touristy and can get quite crowded. Parking costs 10 dirhams (around €1).
On Day 3 we are heading to Ait Ben Haddou, which is definitely one of the highlights of any Morocco itinerary. Ait Ben Haddou looks like something out of a movie, literally. The ancient clay village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and feels incredibly timeless, especially in the golden light of late afternoon.
👉 Tip: Walk all the way to the top and enjoy the view from one of the charming rooftop cafes. You should also watch either the sunrise or sunset.
You can generally plan to spend half a day in Ait Ben Haddou. You can stroll through the many narrow streets, browse the numerous shops, or simply enjoy a coffee.
We spent the night at Maison d’Hôtes Tigminou, located a bit outside the town, about a 10-minute drive away, but in a very beautiful and quiet location with incredibly friendly hosts.
We woke up early for sunrise in Ait Ben Haddou, absolutely worth it for the soft light and peaceful atmosphere! Afterwards, we continued on to the city of Ouarzazate. Located in the heart of the High Atlas Mountains, the city is surrounded by a magnificent mountain landscape and looks like a picturesque sandcastle carved into the rock.
Here you can visit, among other things, the Atlas Studios or the Kasbah Taourirt.
From here we continue towards Dades Gorge. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and leads through really beautiful landscapes.
The Dades Gorge is known for its dramatic landscapes and one of Morocco’s most iconic serpentine roads, winding through the mountains in sharp curves. One of the highlights here is the “Monkey Fingers” hike, where unique rock formations create a surreal and almost otherworldly scenery. It’s a place best explored slowly, with time to take in the views and enjoy the quiet surroundings.
This day was packed with highlights.
We explored the Dades Valley in the morning, then drove to the impressive Todgha Gorges, with its towering canyon walls that are perfect for a short walk. From there, we drove to Merzouga, heading towards the Sahara Desert.
From Todgha Gorge, it’s about a 3-hour drive to Merzouga in the Sahara Desert. Once there, we recommend spending your first night in a desert camp. You now have a choice of over 200 desert camps.
We can recommend the Peaceful Luxury Camp. It’s located near the highest dune and has a relatively small, intimate atmosphere with only 8 tents, which were truly beautiful and comfortable.
We dedicated this day to exploring the Sahara region.
From visiting the salt lake (often home to flamingos) to driving through desert landscapes and having some fun with sandboarding, it was one of the most unique days of the trip.
We stayed at Sahara Pearl Hotel, a comfortable base just outside the dunes.
This was the longest driving day, but also incredibly diverse in scenery.
We headed north towards Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” because of its alpine-style architecture.
On the way, we stopped at the cedar forest to see the famous Barbary macaques.
Our stay at Le Palais des Cerisiers offered a peaceful retreat after a long day on the road.
Next stop: Fes, one of Morocco’s most fascinating and historic cities.
We spent the day wandering through the medina, exploring narrow alleyways, traditional tanneries, and vibrant markets.
Our accommodation, Riad Zamane Fes, Boutique & Spa, was the perfect mix of traditional design and modern comfort.
We left Fes and drove towards the famous blue city of Chefchaouen.
Nestled in the Rif Mountains, this town is known for its photogenic blue streets and relaxed atmosphere. Chefchaouen is one of the most photogenic and relaxed destinations in Morocco.
Here are the best places and things to see:
We highly recommend watching the sunset from the Spanish Mosque if the weather is good. However, it gets quite crowded there, as it offers the most beautiful view of the city.
We stayed at Dar Jasmine, which offers incredible panoramic views over the whole city. The perfect spot, especially at sunset.
After a leisurely morning in Chefchaouen, we continued on to Rabat, Morocco’s capital.
This is where we returned our rental car, as the rest of the journey is easily done by train.
If you want to get from the airport to the city center, you can easily take a taxi. Remember to definitely negotiate the price beforehand. We probably didn’t negotiate very well and paid 150 dirhams (around €15), which is still relatively cheap by European standards.
In Rabat, you can visit historical sites such as the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower, and the Chellah ruins, stroll through the medina, and explore the markets. The city also invites you to relax on the beach or along the riverbank, offers beautiful parks and gardens, as well as museums and modern culture.
Must-Visit Places in Rabat:
In Rabat, you can also sample delicious Moroccan food and enjoy the city life in cafés. We stayed at Riad Amaris, a stylish and comfortable base for exploring the city.
We took a short train ride (about 1 hour) from Rabat to Casablanca.
👉 Tip: You can buy train tickets directly at the train station ticket office. Prices are relatively inexpensive, and you should definitely buy first-class tickets.
Casablanca feels very different from the rest of Morocco, more modern, but still worth a visit.
In Casablanca, you can stroll along the promenade, relax in stylish beach clubs, and experience the modern side of Morocco. The city also offers stunning Art Deco architecture, vibrant markets, and cool cafés, perfect for a relaxing stopover.
We stayed at Exe Casablanca for the night.
In the morning, we visited the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world and a true highlight in Morocco.
Built partly over the Atlantic Ocean, the mosque stands out with its dramatic coastal setting and its 210-meter-high minaret, the tallest in the world.
Unlike most mosques in Morocco, it is open to non-Muslims through guided tours, allowing you to explore the impressive interior.
👉 Tip: Book your ticket in advance or arrive early, as guided tours have fixed time slots and can fill up quickly.
Train from Casablanca to Marrakech.
Afterwards, we took a taxi from the hotel to Casa-Voyageurs train station. Remember to agree on a price beforehand.
You can also buy tickets at the ticket office at the station or purchase via the official ONCF website. It’s a little different here, as you automatically have reserved seats on the train from Casablanca to Marrakech. There’s also a first-class option, but it’s often fully booked, so you should book or buy your tickets a little earlier.
The train journey takes about 3 hours and is quite relaxing.
Arriving in Marrakech, the atmosphere immediately shifts back to vibrant and lively.
We stayed at Le Petit Kenzara & Rooftop Pool, a beautiful riad with a rooftop terrace, perfect for relaxing after our travels while still being right in the heart of the medina.
In the evening, we went to the Bidaya Rooftop Restaurant Bar by Almaha, where we enjoyed good food and delicious drinks. It was the perfect way to end a full day of travel.
👉 Tip: Staying in a riad inside the medina gives you the most authentic Marrakech experience.
We dedicated our final days to fully experiencing Marrakech.
From wandering through the souks and visiting palaces to enjoying rooftop dinners and hammams, this city truly has it all.
Best thing to do & see in Marrakech:
Marrakech is a city full of energy, colors, and contrasts. From the buzzing souks and lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square to peaceful riads hidden behind ancient walls, every corner feels different. It’s the perfect mix of chaos and charm, where tradition and modern lifestyle blend seamlessly. Whether you’re exploring the medina, relaxing on a rooftop, or enjoying Moroccan cuisine, Marrakech always leaves a lasting impression.
We stayed at Riad Dar Zaouia for two nights, which was the perfect base in the heart of the city.
After an unforgettable journey through Morocco, it was time to head back home.
Final Thoughts:
This 14-day Morocco itinerary is perfect if you want to experience the country’s full diversity, from deserts and mountains to vibrant cities and coastal charm. If you have more time you should definitely travel to Essaouira and Taghazout or you can save yourself the cities like Casablanca and Rabat.
Having a rental car for the first part of the trip gave us complete freedom, while trains made the later part easy and relaxing.
If you’re planning your own Morocco road trip, this route is an incredible starting point.
When we travel, we always save the best places we discover from hidden viewpoints and cozy cafés to beautiful beaches and must-see spots. To make trip planning easier, we created interactive travel maps with all our favorite locations in one place. Simply open the map and explore the places we personally visited.
Note: The buttons and images above link to our interactive travel maps hosted on Rexby, where you can explore all saved locations in detail. Thanks for your support friends!
*The following images are affiliate links. Buying through these links won’t cost you anything extra! We just receive a small commission. Thanks for your support ♥
Morocco offers an incredible variety of places to stay, from vibrant cities and ancient medinas to peaceful mountain villages and desert camps. Choosing the right area is key to getting the most out of your trip.
This guide breaks down the best regions and accommodation types so you can easily decide where to stay based on your travel style.
The famous imperial cities are perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience Morocco’s culture, architecture, and history.
Best cities to stay:
👉 Best accommodation: traditional riads inside the medina
👉 Why stay here: walking distance to markets, landmarks, and local life
Le Petit Kenzara & magical rooftop
Marrakech
Riad Dar Zaouia
Marrakech
Riad Zamane
Fès
Dar Jasmine Hotel
Chefchaouen
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, spending a night in the Sahara is a must. The area around Merzouga is the most popular starting point for desert camps.
👉 Best accommodation: luxury desert camps or traditional Berber tents
👉 Why stay here: camel rides, sunset dunes, and incredible starry skies
The Atlas Mountains offer a completely different side of Morocco – peaceful, green, and ideal for slowing down.
Best areas:
👉 Best accommodation: eco-lodges, mountain guesthouses, boutique riads
👉 Why stay here: hiking, nature views, and cooler temperatures
Dar Imiri
Ourika
Riad Rihana
Dades
Maison d'hôtes Tigminou
Aït-Ben-Haddou
Le Palais des Cerisiers
Azrou
Morocco’s coastline is perfect if you want a mix of beach, city life, and modern comfort.
👉 Best accommodation: modern hotels or boutique stays near the ocean
👉 Why stay here: sunsets, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere
The best way to experience Morocco is to mix different types of stays:
This combination gives you the full contrast of the country – culture, nature, adventure, and relaxation.
Morocco is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience, cities, mountains, desert, or coastline. The climate varies a lot across regions, so timing your trip well makes a big difference.
Here’s a clear breakdown to help you choose the perfect season for your Morocco trip.
Spring is widely considered the best time to visit Morocco.
👉 Best for: Best balance of weather, nature, and comfort
Autumn is another ideal travel season, just like spring.
👉 Why go: Excellent weather + fewer crowds
👉 Best for: road trips and Sahara experiences
Summer can be extremely hot inland, especially in Marrakech and the Sahara.
👉 Why go: Best for surfing, beaches, and coastal relaxation
👉 Avoid: desert trips and inland cities during midday heat
Winter is mild in most parts of Morocco, but cold in the mountains.
👉 Why go: Perfect for desert camps and sightseeing without heat
🌦️
⌀16°C
Jan
🌦️
⌀17°C
Feb
🌸
⌀20°C
Mar
🌿
⌀22°C
Apr
🌼
⌀25°C
May
☀️
⌀29°C
June
☀️
⌀32°C
July
☀️
⌀32°C
Aug
🌤️
⌀29°C
Sep
🍂
⌀25°C
Oct
🍁
⌀21°C
Nov
🌦️
⌀17°C
Dec
If you want the perfect overall experience, the best months to visit Morocco are:
👉 March to May or September to November. These periods offer the best mix of:
Morocco is a large and diverse country, and getting around is part of the adventure. From modern trains to desert 4x4s, buses, and shared taxis, there are many ways to travel depending on your route, budget, and comfort level.
Here’s a clear overview of the best transport options in Morocco.
The train network is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to travel between major cities. You can buy tickets either online at ONCF or at the ticket counters in the train stations. Train travel in Morocco is very good: punctual, clean, and affordable.
The train network in Morocco primarily connects the major cities and towns:
Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Fez, Tangier
A rental car is the best option if you want flexibility and plan to explore mountains, valleys, or remote areas. We picked up our rental car at Marrakech airport and dropped it off at Rabat airport and were very satisfied.
Perfect routes include:
👉 Why choose it:
Tip: If you’re booking a rental car, it’s best to check the reviews beforehand. We booked our rental car with Alamo and can absolutely recommend them.
Companies like CTM and Supratours operate long-distance buses across Morocco.
👉 Why choose it:
The best way to explore Morocco is to combine transport types:
👉 Train for cities
👉 Car for road trips
👉 Tours for desert
👉 Buses for budget travel
This mix gives you both comfort and adventure while covering the diversity of the country.
Morocco is one of the most affordable travel destinations, especially compared to Europe. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for luxury experiences, Morocco offers great value for money.
Here’s a clear breakdown of typical costs to help you plan your trip.
Your daily budget depends on your travel style:
👉 Morocco is especially good for mid-range travel, where you get high-quality stays and experiences for a reasonable price.
Accommodation, as is so often the case, is the biggest part of any trip. Generally, you’ll find something to suit everyone throughout the country:
👉 Traditional riads often offer the best value for money with breakfast included.
Moroccan cuisine has a lot to offer. You definitely can’t miss the tagine, which is famous and popular throughout the country. It usually costs between 100 and 150 dirhams (€10-15).
👉 Moroccan food is not only delicious but also very affordable.
👉 Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the country.
👉 Desert experiences are often the biggest single expense, but totally worth it.
Traveling through Morocco is an unforgettable experience, but a few practical tips can make your trip much smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
Here are the most important things to know before you go.
Cash is still widely used throughout Morocco.
👉 Many small shops, markets, and taxis don’t accept cards.
👉 Always keep small change for tips and daily expenses.
👉 It’s best to exchange your money at currency exchange offices (at airports or in cities).
👉 The best place to withdraw cash is at Al Barid Bank (Poste Maroc), often without additional Moroccan fees.
👉 The following banknotes are available: 200, 100, 50, 20, 10
Morocco is a conservative country, especially outside major cities.
👉 Cover shoulders and knees in rural areas
👉 In cities like Marrakech it’s more relaxed, but modest clothing is still recommended
If you value flexibility, renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Morocco.
👉 Perfect for road trips through the Atlas Mountains
👉 Gives you access to remote locations and scenic stops
👉 Maximum flexibility for stopovers
👉 Easily reach even more remote accommodations
Even though many people speak French or some English, knowing a few words in Arabic or Darija goes a long way. Simple phrases like “Salam” (hello) or “Shukran” (thank you) can instantly create a more genuine connection.
If you want a truly memorable stay, book traditional riads instead of standard hotels. These hidden gems in the medinas are peaceful, beautifully designed, and often come with incredible hospitality.
Morocco has diverse climates. It can be hot in Marrakech, cold in the Atlas Mountains, and freezing at night in the Sahara Desert. Pack layers, you’ll thank yourself later.
Morocco looks small on the map, but distances can be deceiving. Travel days between cities like Marrakech, Fes, and the Sahara can be long and tiring. I recommend planning your main route in advance, but leaving room for spontaneous stops, you’ll often discover the best moments in between destinations.
The souks in Marrakech are busy but relatively easy to navigate, Google Maps usually works fine, and you’ll quickly find your way around.
In Fes, it’s a different story. The medina is much more complex, and even with Google Maps, it’s easy to get lost. If you can, book a local guide for a dayl, it makes the experience far less stressful and much more insightful.
Yes, Morocco is generally safe for tourists. Cities like Marrakech and Fes are well-visited, but like anywhere, you should stay aware of your surroundings and avoid quiet areas at night. Petty scams can happen, especially in busy souks.
Yes, cash is essential. Many small shops, taxis, and roads don’t accept cards. Always carry Moroccan dirhams, especially when exploring local markets or smaller towns.
Alcohol is available in Morocco, but it’s not as common as in Europe. You’ll usually find it in hotels, riads, speziellen Liquor shops and licensed restaurants, especially in tourist areas like Marrakech.
The best time to visit Morocco is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Temperatures are pleasant for exploring cities, the desert, and the Atlas Mountains.
Morocco can be very affordable. You can travel on a budget, but there are also luxury options. Accommodation, food, and transport are generally cheaper than in most European countries.
Many travelers (including EU, UK, and US citizens) can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check current entry requirements before your trip.
Yes, Morocco is perfect for a 14-day itinerary. You’ll have enough time to explore cities like Marrakech, Fes, the Sahara Desert, and even the coast or mountains.
Yes, Google Maps works in Morocco, especially in bigger cities. However, in older medinas like Fes, it can be unreliable, so don’t depend on it completely.
