6-day imperial cities of Morocco tour
Discover Morocco's history and culture on a 6-day tour of its imperial cities: Fez, Meknes, Rabat and Marrakech. Former capitals, historic medinas, monuments, souks and traditions.
About this tour
Discover the history and culture of Morocco on this 6-day tour of its imperial cities: Fez, Meknes, Rabat and Marrakech. A journey through former capitals, historic medinas, landmark monuments, souks and traditions that show the richness of Moroccan heritage.
This cultural tour of Morocco is ideal for travellers who want to see its most representative cities, discover traditional architecture and learn about the country's history with a local guide.
Trip details
Type of trip: cultural and historical circuit.
Main destinations: Fez, Meknes, Rabat and Marrakech.
Difficulty: easy; city visits on foot and travel by road.
Recommended start: Fez.
Recommended end: Marrakech.
About this tour
Morocco's imperial cities reflect different periods of the country's history. Fez stands out for its medieval medina and craft tradition; Meknes preserves monumental gates and traces of its imperial past; Rabat combines historic heritage with contemporary life; and Marrakech offers a lively medina, gardens, palaces and traditional markets.
The route is designed to combine cultural visits with time to stroll, try Moroccan food and enjoy the atmosphere of each city. Starting in Fez and ending in Marrakech, it runs from north to south without returning to the starting point.
Highlights
The medina of Fez, with its souks and craft workshops.
The historic monuments and monumental gates of Meknes.
The Hassan Tower and the historic setting of Rabat.
The souks, gardens and monuments of Marrakech.
Moroccan food, architecture and traditions.
Who is this route for?
This tour suits travellers interested in Morocco's history, architecture, culture and city life. It is also a good alternative for those who prefer a cultural trip without spending several days on desert routes.
Good to know
Visit times and order may vary depending on the season and travel conditions.
Some medinas have narrow streets and uneven surfaces.
Monument entrance fees, meals and accommodation are set out in the quote.
Visits inside monuments depend on their opening hours and access conditions.
Places on this tour
Fez
Meknes
Volubilis, as an additional archaeological visit
Rabat
Marrakech
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Fez – First impressions
Arrival in Fez and transfer to your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, free time to rest or take a first walk around the medina.
Fez is one of Morocco's most important historic cities, known for its lanes, souks and craft tradition. Overnight in Fez.
Day 2
Cultural visit of Fez
A day to discover Fez and its historic medina. Along the way you can see its traditional streets, markets, craft workshops and squares, and admire the architecture of its madrasas and other accessible historic buildings.
The day offers a close look at the crafts, food and everyday life of one of Morocco's most iconic cities. Overnight in Fez.
Day 3
Fez – Meknes – Volubilis – Fez
An excursion to Meknes to discover its imperial heritage, its walls and the monumental Bab Mansour gate. A walk through the historic centre and its traditional squares.
If time and conditions allow, continue to the archaeological site of Volubilis, known for the remains of the ancient Roman city and its mosaics. Return to Fez for the night.
Note: Volubilis is an additional archaeological visit, not one of the four imperial cities.
Day 4
Fez – Rabat
Departure for Rabat, the capital of Morocco. On arrival, a visit to the main historic sites, such as the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Kasbah of the Udayas, depending on the time available.
Time to stroll through the historic area and see the contrast between traditional heritage and modern life in the capital. Overnight in Rabat.
Day 5
Rabat – Marrakech
Departure for Marrakech. After the journey, arrival and time to start discovering the red city, famous for its medina, souks and lively squares.
Depending on your arrival time, a chance to walk through Jemaa el-Fna square and enjoy the city's atmosphere at the end of the day. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 6
Visit of Marrakech – End of the tour
Time to discover Marrakech and its most representative sites. Depending on departure times, the visit can include the medina, the souks, the area around the Koutoubia Mosque and historic monuments such as the Bahia Palace, if entry is agreed.
Transfer to the airport or the agreed departure point. End of this 6-day tour of the imperial cities of Morocco.
What is included
- Arrival transfer in Fez and departure transfer in Marrakech
- Transport between the cities of the tour (vehicle as per the quote)
- Accommodation for the 5 nights of the itinerary (type and category as per the quote)
- Local guide for the cultural visits (details as per the quote)
What is not included
- Flights to Morocco
- Travel insurance
- Monument entrance fees, such as the madrasas, Volubilis or the Bahia Palace, unless stated in the quote
- Meals and drinks not stated in the quote
- Tips and personal expenses
Places on this tour
Frequently asked questions
Which cities are considered imperial in Morocco?
The four imperial cities on this tour are Fez, Meknes, Rabat and Marrakech, each linked to different periods of Moroccan history.
Does this tour include the Sahara Desert?
No. It is a cultural route focused on historic cities, medinas, monuments and architectural heritage.
Can the tour be done in reverse?
Yes. It is possible to start in Marrakech and end in Fez, depending on your flights and preferences. The itinerary is then reorganised to make the best use of the time.