Best places to stay in Morocco

Medina – For traditional charm and souks

Marrakech is without a doubt one of the most exciting cities to visit in Morocco, and the medina is its beating heart. Within the ancient walls that enclose the district, you’ll find a maze of narrow, winding streets lined with restaurants, museums and riads (traditional courtyard houses with gorgeous décor).

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to several of Marrakech's must-see places, including the epic grandeur of the Bahia Palace and the thronging Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s landmark square. It’s also where you’ll find the vibrant souks, markets selling all manner of goods from spices (Place des Épices) to shoes (Souk Smata) and ironmongery (Souk Haddadine). If you’re a first-time visitor, this is the place to start.

Gueliz – Modern comforts and boutique hotels

Just half an hour on foot from the medina is a totally different side of the city: Gueliz, also known as Ville Nouvelle. Constructed by the French in 1912, it offers a pleasing contrast with the old town thanks to its wide, tree-lined boulevards and Modernist architecture. If you’re all about the mod cons, it’s definitely one of the top areas to stay in Marrakech.

It offers a breath of fresh air with its parks and gardens, most notably the Jardin Majorelle, where the striking cobalt of the buildings nestles among the lush green of the cacti, palms and ferns that line the avenues. Gueliz has culture aplenty too, with countless museums and galleries including one dedicated to legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent, who had a villa here and purchased the Jardin Majorelle in the 1980s.

Hivernage – Upscale hotels and nightlife

Next door to Gueliz is the trendy neighbourhood of Hivernage. Home to a number of large luxury hotels, it’s a popular choice among the stars who come to town for the film festival. Its palm-lined streets are quiet by day but come alive in the evening – this is the place to come for nightlife, with a casino, high-end restaurants and ultra-chic nightclubs to choose from.

There’s green space on your doorstep too: the Menara Gardens are a tranquil oasis with a gorgeous reflecting pool and a backdrop of the distant Atlas Mountains. If you’re after upscale accommodation with all the amenities, Hivernage is a great place to base yourself, as you’re still just a 20-minute walk away from some of the best things to do in Marrakech.

Fes el Bali

Fes is one of the must-sees on a Morocco holiday. If you’re visiting the city for the first time, make a beeline for Fes el Bali. Dating all the way back to the 9^th century, it’s the most ancient part of the country’s oldest imperial city. It’s also Morocco’s largest medina, a labyrinth of bustling streets famous for sites like the tanneries, where leather is still produced in traditional stone vats.

At the Bab Boujloud, you can kill two birds with one stone: admire the ornate architecture of the city gate before browsing the nearby souk for fresh produce, meats and spices. When it comes to accommodation, this is the place to stay in a riad, where a simple outer door often conceals a spectacular courtyard that feels like a tranquil cocoon.

Fes el Jdid

The “new” part of Fes’ ancient medina, Fes el Jdid nonetheless dates back to an impressive 1276. It’s only a half-hour walk from the heart of the old city, but it’s calmer here, so it’s a good option if peace and quiet are more your thing. The area is rich in historical importance: it houses the Mellah, the Jewish quarter for hundreds of years, evidence of which lives on in the synagogues and the Jewish cemetery.

At Place des Alaouites, you’ll also find the impressive Royal Palace. Sadly, entry to the palace is reserved for the king himself, but it’s worth a stop by to admire the impressive gateway with its intricate mosaic work. Fes el Jdid is handily located between Fes el Bali and Ville Nouvelle and a short drive from the train station, making it a great base for onward excursions.

Ville Nouvelle

A short drive from the ancient medina but a world away in terms of feel, Ville Nouvelle is Fes’ modern and European-inspired “new town”, originating in the French colonial era of the early 20^th century. With its neat layout of spacious residential streets, it’s the place to go if you want contemporary hotels rather than riads – you’ll find big-name chains as well as family-run establishments here.

If you fancy a break from traditional Moroccan cuisine, there are plenty of international restaurants, while a number of lively bars are clustered around Avenue Hassan II. When it’s time for some sightseeing, a bus or taxi will have you at the gateway to the medina in a quarter of an hour.

Medina

Rabat’s compact medina is a charming mix of old-world atmosphere and relaxed coastal vibes. It’s more laid-back than the larger medinas in Fes or Marrakech, making it ideal for first-time visitors looking for a gentler introduction to Morocco’s traditional quarters. Here, you’ll find narrow streets lined with market stalls, artisans’ workshops and small cafés serving mint tea and pastries.

Many of the riads in Rabat’s medina have been beautifully restored and offer cosy accommodation with rooftop terraces and courtyard gardens. Staying here puts you close to key attractions like the Kasbah of the Udayas and the waterfront promenade, while still feeling distinctly local and authentic.

Kasbah of the Udayas

This historic district, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, is one of Rabat’s most picturesque areas. The white-and-blue buildings and cobbled streets are reminiscent of Andalusian villages, and the views from the kasbah walls are worth the stay alone. It’s quiet and scenic, perfect for travellers who want a peaceful base within walking distance of both the beach and the medina.

There aren’t as many hotels here, but a few guesthouses and boutique riads make the most of the setting. It’s a lovely area for morning walks, especially through the Andalusian Gardens and down to the beachside café for a coffee with a sea breeze.

Agdal and Hassan

If you prefer a more modern setting with easy transport links, Agdal and Hassan are excellent choices. Agdal is a lively, student-friendly area full of cafés, restaurants and shopping options, while Hassan is a more upscale, business-focused neighbourhood that’s also home to key landmarks like the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V.

Hotels here range from well-known international chains to contemporary Moroccan stays, often with more facilities than what you’ll find in the medina. These areas are great if you’re planning day trips to nearby cities or need easy access to Rabat Ville train station.

Essaouira

Want to escape to the Moroccan coast, but don’t want to miss out on the old-world allure of a traditional medina? Essaouira has the best of both. The old town is a maze of whitewashed buildings with colourful shutters, and it’s a shoppers’ dream with souks selling ceramics, rugs, spices and much more. The city is rich in culture too, with vibrant galleries around every corner.

From the impressively fortified city walls, you’ll catch a glimpse of Essaouira’s other main attraction: the beach. The sandy shoreline stretches for miles in either direction and is the perfect place for an invigorating stroll or a surf lesson if you’re feeling adventurous – make no mistake, it gets seriously windy here.

Accommodation here tends towards beachfront backpacker hostels with a boho vibe, while the cuisine is unsurprisingly focused on the local catch, with a delicious seafood twist on the traditional tagine.

Agadir

If you’re after a Moroccan resort with a Mediterranean feel, Agadir is the place for you. Largely rebuilt in the 1960s after an earthquake, its wide boulevards and cosmopolitan cafés have a completely different feel from the medieval vibes of the country’s imperial cities. This is Morocco’s premier seaside destination, and the beach doesn’t disappoint: with over 7 miles of golden sand running the length of the city, it’s the perfect spot to kick back and relax, as it’s more sheltered from the wind than other nearby spots on the coast.

Agadir is a very family-friendly destination, and the beachfront strip is a succession of big-name resorts boasting all kinds of amenities from spas to rooftop bars and water parks. Just outside the city centre, Crocoparc is sure to be a hit with its exotic reptiles, while the whole family will enjoy strolling around the trendy marina, complete with shops, restaurants, and Jack Sparrow pirate ship.

Taghazout

A haven for surfers and digital nomads alike, Taghazout retains the charm of a fishing village despite its ever-increasing popularity. The town’s main beach is a beautiful bay where the golden sand and aquamarine water create an aesthetically pleasing contrast with the deep blue of the fishing boats. A series of gorgeous coves are dotted along the coast in either direction, so it’s easy to find something a little more secluded in summer. For an evening stroll or gentle bike ride, there’s also a car-free waterfront promenade stretching three miles down to Tamraght, another popular holiday destination.

In the centre of Taghazout you’ll find surf hostels and guest houses aplenty. Almost all accommodation has surf gear available to rent, and there are dozens of schools to choose from if you fancy a lesson or two to get up to speed. A little further south is a string of high-quality resorts, a nod to the town’s more mainstream appeal in recent years.

Imlil

The small and tranquil town of Imlil is best known as the gateway to Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. From here, you can set out on a guided excursion to climb to the summit at almost 4,200 metres, which takes at least two days.

Even if you’re not here to hike, Imlil is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the local Amazigh (Berber) culture. The locals provide an incredibly warm welcome – why not take a cooking class and whip up tagine, couscous and Berber bread? Other activities include horse rides and mule treks, sure to be a hit with little ones.

Imlil’s traditional earthen buildings are home to lodges and guest houses that offer friendly, family hospitality – you might even end up extending your stay to soak up the peace and quiet.

Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate (pronounced “war-zazat”) is a desert base camp with film studio flair. Since the 1950s, the town has established a reputation as a convincing backdrop for big-name blockbusters including Gladiator and the original Star Wars. It’s no surprise, then, that two of the main activities in the town itself are Atlas Film Studios (the world’s largest) and the smaller, more intimate Cinema Museum. The Taourirt Kasbah, meanwhile, is a sprawling fortification with fantastic rooftop views.

When it’s time to head further afield, Ouarzazate is the perfect base for excursions to the legendary Aït Benhaddou. This “ksar”, or fortified village, dates back to the 17^th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And if it looks familiar, you might recognise it from Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, Game of Thrones or more.

Merzouga

If you’re dreaming of camping under the stars in the Sahara, then Merzouga should be top of your list. This tiny desert town is situated right next to the Erg Chebbi dunes, the largest and highest in Morocco, which form a magical backdrop. Most people come for the dunes, which you can visit on a camel trek, a 4x4 group tour, or a guided quad bike ride.

An excursion into the desert is one of the ultimate tours in Morocco, and this is the place to do it. With a local guide, you can visit a Berber village and experience the nomadic lifestyle for yourself. Desert camping is a must, but don’t worry if you’re not a no-frills kind of person – luxury options are available.

Back in the town itself, the hospitality is exceptional. Whether you choose a riad, a budget hostel or a hotel, you’re guaranteed a serene and welcoming experience. While you’re here, don’t miss the Berber speciality medfouna, a delicious flatbread stuffed with spiced meat, onions and herbs.

Chefchaouen

If you’re looking to go off the beaten track but don’t want to compromise on photogenic charm, Chefchaouen is one of the best places to stay in Morocco. Nestled in the foothills of the mighty Rif Mountains, this small town is quite a trek from the country’s international airports – the easiest places to reach it from are Tangier, Casablanca, Rabat, Fez and Meknes. As a result, it has a secluded vibe you’re sure to love.

With cobbled streets, flowerpots galore and a dramatic backdrop, it’s a strikingly pretty place – not least because of the pastel shade adorning almost every building in the medina, earning it the nickname “The Blue City”.

With a fairly compact and quiet old town, it’s not easy to get lost, so it’s a great place to amble around and explore the souks and the kasbah (complete with museum). Further afield, the picturesque Akchour waterfalls are worth a visit, while there are epic hikes to be had in the mountains – book a private guide for the best experience.

Taroudant

Like the sound of Marrakech without the crowds? Check out Taroudant, a peaceful town often called Little Marrakech thanks to its imposing sandstone ramparts and vibrant souks. Unlike its more illustrious counterpart, mass tourism hasn’t reached this place yet, so it’s a peaceful experience browsing its wares of leather goods, ceramics, traditional Amazigh silver jewellery, and argan oil. The most unexpected landmark here is the Palais Musée Claudio Bravo. Once the home of the late Chilean hyperrealist painter, it’s now a hotel and museum that’s magical inside and out.

Taroudant is located in a valley between the High Atlas and the Anti-Atlas, which create a stunning vista. You’re also less than an hour and a half from the popular seaside destination of Agadir, making it easy to combine the two as part of a multi-destination trip.

Asilah

For something a little different on your Morocco holiday, why not try the Andalusian charm of Asilah? This coastal town in the far north was formerly under Portuguese and then Spanish rule, and their influences can still be seen in its pretty, well-preserved medina, complete with mighty ramparts and bustling souks. With whitewashed buildings, blue-green shutters and multicoloured murals galore, it’s a vibrant place – something that’s reflected in its thriving art scene, with a number of boutique galleries and an Arts Festival held every July.

It’s not just the art that’s picturesque, though: the sunsets from the Krikia viewpoint are worthy of an oil painting, and there are wonderful beaches stretching either way along the coast. You’re also less than an hour from Tangier, the country’s major ferry port, making a day trip to Spanish cities like Tarifa a fun option.

For culture and city life: Marrakech and Fes

When it comes to big-city vibes and rich culture, you can’t go wrong with two of Morocco’s largest and oldest cities, Marrakech and Fes. Both have maze-like medinas with lively markets where you can pick up traditional handmade souvenirs including leather goods, jewellery and footwear. They offer the perfect mix of age-old charm and modern city amenities, as both destinations have a “Ville Nouvelle” (French-era neighbourhood) home to big-name chain hotels, while the old town is the place to go for traditional riads. Last but not least, the food in Marrakech and Fes is superb, with flavourful, aromatic tagine, couscous and pastilla on offer.

For beaches – Agadir, Taghazout or Essaouira

Wondering where to stay in Morocco for the best beaches? Agadir is the country’s seaside resort par excellence, with a wide, sandy shore over 7 miles long. There’s plenty of space for everyone and the amenities are top-notch, including a promenade lined with eateries, water sports hire, and beachfront hotels.

If your idea of a beach day is all about riding the waves, Taghazout is the place for you. This surfers’ idyll offers a mix of laid-back hostels and larger resorts, all clustered along the golden-sand shoreline. For something even more secluded, take a trip to one of the coves dotted along the coast in either direction.

Fancy strolling around an ancient medina in the morning and then hitting the beach in the afternoon? In Essaouira, you can. The bay itself is wide, sandy and windswept – perfect for any budding water sports enthusiasts. While you’re here, don’t miss the impressive city walls and colourful art galleries.

For nature – Imlil or Merzouga

Imlil is a nature-lover’s paradise, tucked among the Atlas Mountains with the mighty peak of Mount Toubkal rising in the background. It’s the perfect base for excursions up the mountain, treks to picturesque waterfalls, or rides through the surrounding countryside on a horse, mule or camel.

Merzouga is the place to go for a desert experience in Morocco. The world-famous Erg Chebbi dunes are the star attraction here, but it’s also a great spot to just soak up the serenity, perhaps while camping under the stars. It’s a small place, but big on hospitality.

For a bit of everything – Combine city and coast

Can’t decide what to prioritise on your Morocco holiday? Luckily, the location of some of the country’s top attractions makes a multi-destination trip a breeze. For example, Marrakech is less than three hours from Essaouira by car, while Fes and the charming coastal town of Asilah are just four hours apart. From the inland cities, it’s also easy to tack on an excursion to towns in the Rif or Atlas Mountains.