Morocco is an enticing holiday destination with plenty to explore. With its Arab, Berber, and French influences, the culture here is truly unique, and its bustling cities are perfectly complimented by coastal destinations and pristine natural landscapes.
Morocco is perhaps most famous for its major cities, including Marrakesh, Rabat, Fez and Meknes. Marrakesh is particularly popular, boasting a rich history, unique architecture, and delicious local cuisine.
Outside of Marrakesh and the other imperial cities there is also plenty to experience in Morocco, including Essaouira and the Atlas Mountains. Be sure to try the local cuisine, with Moroccan food always packing a punch of zesty and aromatic flavours. Our favourites include tagine, zaalouk, and the delicious khobz – a crusty wood-fired bread served with many meals.
festivals, deserts, mountains, and coastlines.
Take a look at our expert-written guides for recommendations for every type of traveller, from city explorers to beach lovers and adventure seekers. We’ll provide insight into the best times to visit, essential travel tips, and must-see destinations, and insider info from the Riviera Travel team.
Best Time to Visit Morocco
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) tend to be popular times to visit Morocco’s cities like Marrakech, Agadir and Fez as temperatures are warm but not overwhelming, and there’s little rainfall. Coastal destinations such as Essaouira are popular year-round, especially in summer as temperatures hit mid-20s. When it comes to festivals, Morocco has many of them thanks to its Arab, French and Berber influences. Berber new year – Yennayer – falls in January, while the Almond Blossom Festival is in February and the Rose Festival is in May. There are also arts, music and film festivals throughout the year and, of course, religious events such as Ramadan, which change date each year.
For a full insight into each month, take a look at our guide to the best time to visit Morocco.
Where to Stay When Visiting Morocco
Culture vultures looking for that bustling city life must visit Marrakech, with its labyrinth of alleyways, classic, French colonial buildings, beautifully chaotic souks and historic sites.
Then there’s the walled city of Fez, a UNESCO-listen heaven for history lovers. Explore the Medie complex mosaics and charming courtyards of the spiritual Al-Attarine Madrasa.
On the coast, Essaouira is a 15th century town with a rich and varied history, not to mention some incredible architecture and local beaches, and Agadir is popular for surfers.
Top Things to Do and See in Morocco
Discover the magic of Morocco on our expertly guided tours, where you’ll explore the vibrant streets of Marrakesh, from the medieval ramparts and maze-like medina to the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, alive with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls. Marvel at the intricate Saadian tombs, then journey to Casablanca to admire the architectural blend of Berber, Arab, and European influences, including the iconic Hassan II Mosque and Rick’s Café. Along the coast, wander Essaouira’s ancient sea walls and Rabat’s elegant boulevards and blue-washed medina. For nature lovers, the majestic Atlas Mountains offer both adventure and serenity in breathtaking surroundings.
Find out more about the best things to do in Morocco on our blog.
Read more about best things to do in Morocco
Looking for an in-depth list of things to do in Morocco? Take a look at our comprehensive guide.
What to Wear in Morocco
When travelling in Morocco, it’s important to respect local customs while staying comfortable. Modesty is key—women should cover shoulders and knees with long dresses, skirts, or trousers, and avoid low-cut tops, while men should steer clear of short shorts and sleeveless shirts outside beach or pool areas. Religious sites require both men and women to cover shoulders and knees, so carrying a light scarf or shawl is a smart idea. With Morocco’s hot climate, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal for staying cool and protected from the sun. Don’t forget essentials like SPF, a sunhat, and sunglasses for year-round sun safety.
What to Eat When Visiting Morocco
One of the highlights of visiting Morocco is experiencing its vibrant food culture. From rich, slow-cooked dishes to flavourful street snacks, there’s something to suit every palate. You’ll find both familiar tastes and new culinary surprises, with opportunities to try traditional meals, explore bustling markets, or even take a cooking class. Local drinks like mint tea and fresh juices add to the sensory experience, making Moroccan cuisine an essential part of any trip.
Find out more about Moroccan cuisine on our blog.
Best Ways to Get Around in Morocco
We’re aware that getting around a new destination can be daunting, with language barriers and complex public transport systems getting in the way of a seamless experience. Travelling with a tour operator like Riviera Travel means that you don’t have to worry about these logistics, and everything is taken care of for you, but here are a few tips for getting around Morocco:
- Renting a car is the best way to travel around if you’re wanting to go to more remote regions
- If you’re travelling within a city, take taxis. There are official petits taxis - yellow in Marrakesh, blue in Rabat and red in Casablanca - that are metered so you don’t need to haggle or set a price before you travel. However, beware of the driver trying to convince you the meter is broken but they’ll figure out the price
- If doing longer journeys, grand taxis are larger vehicles (as the name suggests!) that normally fit around six people. They will wait around until full, so if you’re travelling solo or in a couple, you might be waiting for others to be going in the same direction. They can even be hired with a driver to explore the country if you’re not up for renting a car yourself.
- The ONFC train service links Morocco’s major cities but be prepared that timelines aren’t as reliable as you’ll find in places like Germany or Japan.
- Buses are a great, budget-friendly way to get around the cities and even further into the country to places that are otherwise tricky to get to by train. Some of them are similar to the cross-country coach services you can find in Europe and North America, so are safer and more comfortable, while others are more village buses that aren’t as safe and are less reliable.
Health & Safety Advice for Traveling to Morocco
While technically the water in Morocco’s major towns and cities is safe to drink as it meets World Health Organization (WHO) standards, many visitors like to exclusively drink bottled water just to be on the safe side.
While your doctor can provide specific advice based on your health needs, the NHS Fit For Travel site recommends travellers get hepatitis A and tetanus boosters before going to Morocco, and potentially rabies and typhoid. Malaria isn’t an issue in Morocco, and you don’t need a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
If you need to travel with mediation, Travel Health Pro has excellent tips on what you need to know, but generally:
- You should always travel with your medication in your hand luggage, in case anything happens to your checked luggage.
- You should travel with your medication in its original packaging from the pharmacy.
- If possible, also take your prescription with you in case you need to get more medication.
- Some medications are restricted in the UK that are not in Morocco, and vice versa. You may be stopped from bringing these out of or into the UK if you travel with more than three months supply.
- Be careful when buying medication abroad – only buy from proper pharmacies.
Things You Should Know Before Going to Morocco
When travelling in Morocco, it helps to be aware of local customs and practical tips. Your Tour Manager will assist along the way, but it’s good to know that cash is essential, haggling is expected in markets, and modesty and respect for religious traditions are important. Be cautious when crossing roads, carry tissues for public toilets, and always ask before taking photos of people. Alcohol is limited to licensed venues, and meals are often eaten with bread—using your right hand is considered polite. Fridays are holy days, so expect some changes in routine, and remember that respect for local laws and customs goes a long way.
Find out more on our blog:
Read 10 things you should know before you visit Morocco
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Morocco?
- People with UK passports can visit Morocco for up to 90 days for tourism reasons without a visa.
- When you enter the country, your passports should have at least three months’ validity left before they expire.
- Passports should not be damaged – border forces have previously denied entry to people with damaged passports.
- The official gov.uk website has the latest advice for entry requirements to Morocco.
What Currency is Used in Morocco?
The Moroccan currency (dirham) is only available to buy within Morocco. You can find foreign exchange counters throughout the city, at the airport or within banks. Cards are accepted in hotels and restaurants in major cities, but we recommend travelling with cash, particularly a good stash of small bills and coins as some places may not have a lot of change for long bills.
What Plugs are Used in Morocco?
Morocco uses both type C and E plugs. We recommend taking a universal adaptor so that you’re prepared for any eventuality.
Moroccan Laws & Emergency Info
150 is the phone number for emergency medical attention or a fire
190 is to call the police.
Some of Morocco’s law are based on Islamic law. Public displays of affection are frowned upon in general, but it’s particularly important to be aware of this if in a same sex couple or unmarried couple. Some hotels may enforce a policy of not allowing unmarried or unrelated members of the opposite sex to share the same hotel room.
It’s important respect the local culture of modesty, and keep shoulders and legs while out in public.
It’s illegal to speak ill of the king of Islam, and there are also restrictions around public commentary or displays of materials that dispute Morocco's claim to sovereignty over the Western Sahara.
There are strict rules around drugs and alcohol – hotels, resorts and restaurants may serve alcohol, but it’s illegal to drink in the streets, and many establishments won’t sell alcohol at all during Ramadan.
Find out more about the unspoken rules of Moroccan culture, discover The Do's and Don'ts of Moroccan Culture.
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