5 Days Imperial Cities Tour from Marrakech

Day 1: Marrakech – The Red City

The first day begins in Marrakech, a vibrant and lively city. Known as the “red city” for its terracotta-colored buildings, Marrakech blends tradition and modernity in every corner.

Majorelle Gardens and the Koutoubia

The morning starts with a visit to the famous Majorelle Gardens, a place of peace and beauty created by the French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. Then, head to the Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s most famous monument with its towering 77-meter minaret.

Jemaa el-Fna Square and the souks

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna Square, the heart of Marrakech, where you’ll find snake charmers, storytellers, and a unique energy. Then, dive into the nearby souks, a maze of alleys filled with shops selling everything from spices to Moroccan crafts.

Day 2: Marrakech – Meknes – Fez

The second day of your journey will take you from Marrakech to the imperial city of Meknes, a lesser-known gem full of history.

Meknes: The city of monumental gates

Upon arrival in Meknes, you’ll discover Bab Mansour, one of the most impressive gates in Morocco. This city was the capital during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail, who filled it with palaces, gardens, and mosques. You will visit El-Hedim Square, the Royal Granaries, and the sultan’s mausoleum.

Arrival in Fez: The cultural city

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Fez, considered the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco. You will spend the night here, preparing to discover one of the most fascinating cities in the country.

Day 3: Fez – The medieval city

The third day is entirely dedicated to exploring Fez, the oldest city in Morocco and a true labyrinth of alleys full of history.

The Medina of Fez el-Bali

Start the day with a visit to the Medina of Fez el-Bali, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With more than 9,000 alleys, this medina is the largest in the world. Here, you will discover the Royal Palace, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest university in the world.

Fez Tanneries and artisanal life

One of the highlights of Fez is the visit to the traditional tanneries, where workers still use ancient techniques to process leather. You can also explore the artisan souks and see how leather, metal, and ceramic products are crafted.

Day 4: Fez – Volubilis – Rabat

On the fourth day, you’ll travel from Fez to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, one of Morocco’s most important archaeological sites.

Volubilis: Roman history in Morocco

Visit the impressive ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can see mosaics, columns, and temples dating back to the Roman era, offering a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s ancient history.

Rabat: The modern capital

In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Rabat, Morocco’s political and administrative capital. Unlike other imperial cities, Rabat has a more modern and cosmopolitan feel, though it is still steeped in history. Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Hassan Tower, an unfinished mosque that is the symbol of the city.

Day 5: Rabat – Casablanca – Marrakech

On the last day of your tour, you’ll depart from Rabat and head to Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital.

Casablanca: The modern city

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city, known for its blend of modern and colonial architecture. Visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, built on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. This imposing building is an impressive example of contemporary Moroccan architecture.

Return to Marrakech

After visiting Casablanca, you will continue your journey back to Marrakech, where your adventure through Morocco’s Imperial Cities will come to an end.

Conclusion: A journey full of history and culture

The 5-day tour of the Imperial Cities from Marrakech offers a complete experience of Morocco’s cultural and historical heritage. From the vibrant Marrakech to the historic Fez, through the ruins of Volubilis and the modern Casablanca, this journey will allow you to discover the deep roots of a country full of contrasts and wonders.