Discover al-Qarawiyyin University and Mosque

The world's first university opened its doors in 859 A.D. in the Moroccan city of Fez, within the al-Qarawiyyin Mosque. It's a must for any traveller staying in bustling Fez, who may be surprised to discover that it was a woman, Fatima al-Fihri, who founded this mosque that became a centre of higher education and, over time, a major knowledge hub in the Mediterranean. Access to the mosque is reserved for Muslims, so you'll have to settle for taking a peek from the entrance. So, make sure you don't overlook this part of the untouched medina.

Madrasas and funduqs of Fez

When you immerse yourself into Moroccan culture, you'll come across two frequent terms: madrasas and funduqs. Madrasas are schools and two of the most stunning in the city are the Al-Attarine Madrasa and the Bou Inania Madrasa, both of which can be visited. Their typical architecture consists of an ornate central courtyard surrounded by arcades and rooms on all four sides, generally double height. Meanwhile, funduqs are medieval caravanserai where merchants would spend the night and store their goods. Ask in the medina for the funduq that has been restored and converted into the Nejjarine Museum and pop by to admire the wooden crafts.

Marvel at the leather tanneries

The most famous image of Fez, photographed by generations of travellers, is its Tanners' Square. You'll find it in the heart of the medina, with the old barrels filled with vibrant dyes to colour the animal hides. These will then be turned into bags, jackets and other leather goods that are on sale at the huge array of stalls. Tanning is an extremely hard job, but there's something hypnotic about watching it. The best view of the Tanners' Square is from the terraces of the shops around it. The shop owners will gladly walk you around, trusting that their courtesy will end up in a sale for them.

Savour the delicacies of Fez

In this city you'll be blown away by a truly wonderful cuisine. Make sure you try couscous (a tasty wheat semolina with meats and vegetables), tajine (a chicken or lamb stew served in a quirky earthenware pot that gives the dish its name), pastilla (a mouthwatering puff pastry pie (Ouarqua) with a sweet and savoury meat filling), and kefta (small, seasoned meatballs served with tomato). As a starter, order harira, which is a rich soup made from tomato, onion and chickpeas. And to round off the banquet, a mint tea with exquisite Moroccan pastries. Simply superb!

Unwind at the Moulay Yacoub spa

Morocco boasts a hidden treasure: its hot springs. Just fifteen kilometres away from Fez, in the middle of an arid valley, is the Moulay Yacoub spa. Its warm, sulphurous waters are famous for their therapeutic and soothing properties, which is why they're great for treating rheumatism, respiratory problems, skin diseases and more. The municipal thermal baths are frequented by families from all over the country, so you'll get to see a true slice of Moroccan life. A modern and luxurious spa hotel, the Vichy Termalia, has been built near them, and provides a wide range of thermal water treatments. It's the best place to unwind after a few days of intense sightseeing!

Visit a mosque on the water

On the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, built on an artificial promontory created by reclaiming land from the sea, lies the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most stunning in the world. It's possible to visit inside, always accompanied by a guide, so you'll get to see the stunning woods that fuse with marble and onyx, the symmetry of the arabesques and tiles, its ornate doors, its spectacular ceilings and columns, and much more. What's more, you'll definitely stand in awe at its spectacular 172-metre minaret, a fact that has given it the accolade of the tallest religious building in the world.

Shopping around town

Casablanca is a paradise for shopping lovers, with markets, stores and large shopping centres where you can buy all kinds of products. In the city centre, you'll find boutiques selling some of the world's most famous and luxurious labels, which are also available at many of Casablanca's shopping centres. One of the best is the Morocco Mall, the largest in Africa, with six hundred retail brands, a musical fountain and an aquarium that will dazzle you. If you love crafts, head to the medina and its souks, where artsans will sell you typical pieces such as trays, teapots, leather goods, footwear, pouffes and more. You'll be spoilt for choice!

Discover the Moroccan 'dolce vita' in its old medina

Just a stone's throw from the port of Casablanca, we recommend a stroll through the labyrinth of narrow streets in the old medina. It's the most recent one in the country, though, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755, and one of the most original, as its constructions fuse Arab-Muslim architecture with European influences. It still features the last remains of the city prior to the twentieth century. In this area, you'll see how Moroccans enjoy the good life in bars, restaurants and shops, as well as at all the cultural events that take place all year round.

Hop from the old to the new medina: the Habous district

Once you've visited the old medina and its traditional shops, you can't miss the new medina, also known as the Habous district. Designed by the French in the 1920s, it's an eclectic neighbourhood full of tree-lined squares, narrow streets, elegant arcades, colonial and Maghreb-style buildings alike, and pocket-sized souks selling Moroccan crafts. In its surroundings you can leisurely stroll along the Boulevard Victor Hugo and visit must-sees including the Royal Palace, the Palace of Justice, the Mohamed V Mosque and the Moulay Youssef Mosque. And make sure you try the pastries from some of the stalls.

Take a dip off its urban beaches

Nestled on the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca is an amazing beach resort where you can unwind after a busy day sightseeing. In the centre, around the Aïn Diab commune located at the Corniche, the hotel complexes boast all kinds of facilities and services, combined with private beaches and water parks. Lalla Meryem is another beach that you absolutely have to visit. At both you can enjoy all kinds of water activities such as jet skiing, windsurfing and diving, or savour the local cuisine at the many bars and restaurants along the promenade, where you should also make sure to take a sunset stroll.

Visit Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V

These are two places you can't miss on your trip to Morocco's capital city. The Hassan Tower is an unfinished construction, designed by Sultan Yaqub al-Mansur in the twelfth century with the aim of erecting the world's highest minaret. He didn't have enough time to complete his project, but he did leave us one of the most iconic images of Rabat. Next door is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, grandfather of the current Alaouite monarch. It's a fantastic piece of architecture that you'll immediately identify by its gleaming white marble façade. The complex includes a stunning mosque and a museum about the history of Morocco's ruling dynasty.

Travel back in time at the Kasbah of the Udayas

This beautiful citadel, restored in the period of the French protectorate, is perfect for a leisurely trip back to the ancient history of Morocco. It stands at one end of Rabat, very close to the sea. Originally it was a fort where the Udaya tribe settled, and that they later turned into a splendid citadel. Venture inside to explore the spectacular network of narrow streets, with their characteristic houses painted white and blue, and admire the wonderful views of the sea and the neighbouring city of Salé from the viewpoints on the wall.

Explore the multicultural Necropolis of Chellah

This was originally a port of call called Sala Colonia, a hugely important trading post thanks to its location on the banks of the Bou Regreg River and its proximity to the Atlantic. The Phoenicians are thought to have been the first civilisation to leave their mark on what would later become a Roman city. Later, the Arabs expanded the site to build a mosque and some shrines. Wandering through the Necropolis of Chellah will give you a clear idea of the succession of cultures that underlies this country's history. Today, Chellah is popular for playing host to the annual Festival Jazz au Chellah.

Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel

A love of gardens is deeply rooted in Arabic culture and its traditional architecture. Just twenty kilometres from the Moroccan capital, it's well worth visiting the Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel, designed by the French engineer Marcel François in the mid-twentieth century. Enjoy this stylish haven of greenery that mimics the jungle and exotic forests, full of exuberant vegetation in the heart of a country usually associated with the desert. You'll be able to see trees and flowers native to China, South Asia, the Congo, Japan, the Antilles, Polynesia, etc., all of them sharing this pocket-sized paradise.

Take a cultural tour of its museums

Rabat is a modern city and a cultural destination with an outstanding selection of museums. One not to be missed is the former Archaeological Museum, which was recently refurbished and rechristened the Museum of History and Civilisations of Rabat. It's home to the archaeological finds from various sites in Morocco, such as Volubilis, Banassa and Thamusida. At the other end of the spectrum, we also highly recommend a tour of the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, opened in 2014 in the new part of the city and designed in the French colonial style. Its vast collection of paintings, photos and other works will fascinate you.

Wander leisurely around Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

This is the main square of Marrakech and the hub of city life for locals, a meeting place for you to wander leisurely around and discover its array of stalls while savouring the scents of mint and spices and listening to traditional music. Visit by day for a spot of souvenir shopping and by night to sample local delicacies at the food stalls. Our recommendation is to head to a bar with a terrace at sunset so that you can marvel at the beauty of this bustling square from above.

Visit Yves Saint Laurent's garden

In the heart of this ochre-toned city lies the Majorelle Garden, a haven of peace that captivates all visitors with its intensely blue villa and its exuberantly verdant vegetation. Owned by Yves Saint Laurent since 1980, the botanical garden is home to plants from different continents, a Moorish-style café-restaurant where you can unwind, and a Berber museum where you can learn about the rich culture of this people. Get your camera ready to take some of the best photos of your visit to the city!

Admire the beauty of the most important mosque

Stroll through the old town of Marrakech and gaze up at the sky to see how it’s pierced by the impressive 77-metre-high minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, the most important in the city. It's sure to remind you of the Giralda in Seville, which was inspired by its design and proportions. Although only practising Muslims can go inside, you can admire the beauty of its exterior, with imposing walls and sandstone blocks decorated with filigree stone and tiles, while its gardens are full of palm trees, orange trees and other fruit trees.

Breathe in the fresh air at city’s top natural spaces

Marrakech isn't just culture, history and heritage, it's also nature and adventure. The city is surrounded by the impressive Atlas Mountains, perfect for enjoying all kinds of outdoor activities. Between the valleys of the N'Fiss and Ourika rivers lies the Toubkal National Park, where you'll find protected areas with junipers, oaks and a huge variety of animal species. We recommend climbing to the top of Mount Toubkal, one of the most stunning peaks in the country and even the whole of Africa. Make sure you always go with a knowledgeable local guide, though, as they'll be able to show you the most amazing hidden corners.

Savour Marrakech's mythical dish: the Tanjia

A must on a trip to any destination is the local cuisine. Morocco's is one of the most delicious in the whole world, and during your stay in Marrakech you really have to try its mythical dish: the Tanjia. This is a stew made in a clay pot and cooked for six to eight hours over coals. The ingredients include highly seasoned (especially with cumin) chunks of beef, lemon and saffron. As it's cooked for so long, the meat is mouth-wateringly tender and the sauce is so delicious that you'll definitely be back for more.

Admire the beauty of one of the world’s most stunning bays

The coastal city of Agadir has attracted widespread international recognition thanks to the sheer beauty of its bay. Two must-dos on your trip to Agadir are a thrilling speedboat ride around the bay and an evening admiring the breathtaking sunsets. Agadir happens to be Morocco's water sport capital, so you can take advantage of its calm seas or head out to the choppier waters off Taghazout, a former fishing village where you'll also get to enjoy the facilities of a magnificent beach.

Try the sweet and delicious Amlou

It's dubbed the Moroccan Nutella and it's simply delicious. Amlou is a sweet, tasty paste that's prepared with toasted almonds, honey and exquisite argan oil. It can be spread on toast or used as a sweet filling for everything from crepes to waffles. What's more, it's very nutritious, rich in proteins and vitamins, and will give you strength for a whole day touring the breathtaking Agadir. In Berber culture it was considered an aphrodisiac. A good homemade Amlou can also be an excellent gift to take back home and impress your foodie friends.

Discover the virtues of argan, the providential tree

The virtues of argan oil, extracted from the fruit of the argan tree, have been widely known for years. Its composition, with a high percentage of essential fatty acids and tocopherols, make it an amazing moisturiser for both the skin and hair. What's more, it's healing, antiseptic, antifungal, anti-ageing and grease-free. That's why its oil is an ingredient in a whole host of cosmetic products. This liquid gold from the desert is also edible and improves liver function and reduces cholesterol absorption. We recommend buying a pure, certified oil to make sure that you enjoy all its excellent qualities.

Visit Mirleft, the magical beach

A day trip to Mirleft is a treat for travellers eager to explore the most unique side of Morocco. This small town on the Atlantic coast, originally a Spanish-built fort, is located about 120 kilometres south of Agadir, in the province of Sidi Ifni. A haven for hippies in the 1970s, Mirleft still retains its quirky and bohemian aura, while attracting lovers of surfing, trekking and nature in general. It's also well worth heading a few miles further to admire the rugged beach of Legzira, with its impressive arches of reddish rock.

Head to Taghazout, a surfer's paradise

If you're a surfer, this is the place for you! There are some stunning spots for surfing and windsurfing along Morocco's Atlantic coastline. If you love to ride the waves perched on a board, remember this name: Taghazout. You can enjoy your favourite sport here like few other places. One of the most popular surfing spots in Morocco, Anchor Point, is located here, providing an endless succession of speed walls. On the main street in Taghazout, you'll see many specialised shops, as well as a selection of laid-back coffee shops perfect for unwinding after a thrilling day out on the waves.

Soak up life in the Old Medina and the souks

Tangier's international past still permeates every corner of its Old Medina and its souks. Set among an intricate labyrinth of narrow streets, merchants here display their merchandise to the public, including leather goods, ceramics, metalwork, hand-woven rugs and blankets, spices, figs and dates, honey and almond pastries, and much more. The Medina is an ever-changing kaleidoscope of colours, aromas and flavours. Revel in the pleasure of haggling at the stalls and set aside some time to admire the Petit Socco or the Place du 9 Avril 1947, which links the Medina with the new city.

Stroll through the Kasbah district

Another must-do in the White City, as Tangier has been dubbed thanks to its whitewashed houses, is a stroll through the Kasbah district. This is an old walled neighbourhood perched on one of the city's hills. Once again, the network of narrow streets is replicated before your eyes, where you'll come across a host of characterful hotels and traditional riads. Find an appealing terrace, order a tea from the waiter, and admire the views while you stop off for a little rest. The Kasbah is an outstanding viewpoint overlooking the old port of Tangier.

Enjoy a wondrous day at sea

The Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Tangier. The exact meeting point, a couple of miles west of the city, is Cape Spartel, formerly known as Cape Ampelusia, which is one of the land limits of the Strait of Gibraltar. You'll quickly spot it by the lighthouse that crowns the promontory. All around are options for a splendid day at sea. We recommend Plage Soleil and Plage Achakar, both of which are stunning Blue Flag beaches. Though perhaps the most impressive one, thanks to its twenty kilometres of white sand, is Sidi Kacem. Not to be missed!

Follow in the footsteps of Hercules in Tangier

Follow the coastline for five kilometres after Cape Spartel and you'll get to the Caves of Hercules. These natural caves, discovered by the Phoenicians, are a true marvel of nature that you won't be able to resist sharing on Instagram. They're freely accessible, although you'll most probably come across a local guide who'll offer to take you on a guided tour and explain how the mythological hero Hercules slept in these caves before undertaking the eleventh of his famous twelve labours: stealing the apples from the Garden of the Hesperides. Take advantage of the excursion to savour a delicious fish tagine at the beach bars near the caves.

Unwind in the Mendoubia Gardens

Near the Grand Socco, north of the Sidi Bou Abid Mosque, lie the Mendoubia Gardens, which for centuries have been a haven of peace and greenery in the heart of Tangier. These beautiful gardens, where you can see a Banyan tree that's said to be over eight hundred years old, are frequented by tourists and locals alike. This is just one of the attractions, as you'll also find a collection of thirty bronze cannons that in the seventeenth century armed the ships sailing across the Mediterranean. Seek out some shade under a palm tree and unwind while watching the comings and goings of passers-by.