Morocco Holidays

Best time to go to Morocco

The best time for a Morocco holiday depends on where you're headed and what you want to do. Spring and autumn are ideal if you plan to visit the Sahara Desert or the Atlas Mountains, as the temperatures won't be too extreme, making activities easier. In winter, you can ski in the mountains, catch the biggest waves on the coast, or enjoy epic Christmas and New Year celebrations in the cities.

It's best to avoid Marrakech in the height of summer (July and August) due to the scorching heat – head for the cooling breezes of coastal Agadir or Essaouira instead. Lastly, Ramadan is an interesting time to visit, with many hospitality establishments closed during the day, creating a quiet and contemplative vibe.

How to get to Morocco

Morocco is served by numerous airports, including Marrakech, Fez, Agadir and Casablanca, making it easy to fly directly to the city of your choice. Flights are available from UK hubs such as London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh, with a flight time of just under 4 hours.

If you're planning an intercontinental trip, one adventurous option is taking a ferry from Spain. This can even be done as a day trip since the crossing from Tarifa (at Spain's southernmost tip) to Tangier only takes an hour. For a truly epic journey, there's also a 30-hour crossing from Barcelona to Tangier.

Getting around Morocco

Once you're in Morocco, getting around by train is your best bet if travelling between the major cities. The two main lines run from Tangier and Oujda, respectively, to Marrakech, covering Rabat, Casablanca and Fez along the way. The Tangier-Casablanca stretch is now a high-speed line operating at 300 km/h, covering the distance in just 2 hours and 10 minutes.

A popular and time-effective way to get from Tangier to Marrakech is the overnight train, where you'll get a bed in a shared four-berth compartment. For those planning to rent a car, long-distance driving in Morocco is generally good, with nice road surfaces, long straight roads, and little traffic in most areas. However, accident rates in cities are high – be aware that other drivers may not follow the rules of the road when it comes to indicating lane discipline.

What to do in Morocco

The number one stop on any first-time holiday to Morocco has to be the bustling city of Marrakech, home to many of the country’s top sights. Soak up the atmosphere in the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square and visit the majestic Bahia Palace.

Fez is the country’s cultural capital and is home to the largest and oldest medina in North Africa. You can hit the beach in Essaouira or Agadir or straddle the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert in the city of Ouarzazate, the perfect base to explore the fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou. For a more cosmopolitan feel, head to the port city of Tangier, where you can see Spain across the narrow Strait of Gibraltar.

Things to do in Morocco for free

A great way to pass the time in Morocco’s cities is by visiting its souks or traditional markets, which offer all manner of goods. In Marrakech, the Place des Épices is a riot of colours selling all kinds of powdered herbs and spices. Also worth mentioning are Souk Zrabi (rugs), Souk Haddadine (ironmongery), and Souk Smata for shoes, including the traditional Moroccan babouche or slipper.

In Fez, Souk el Attarine is a historic market where some of the stalls are set up in beautiful old houses, allowing you to explore a traditional riad while you browse. Lastly, Essaouira’s open-air fish market is a fascinating place to look around, but be warned – it might leave you with a seafood craving.

What to do in Morocco with your family

Little ones and adults alike will love one of Marrakech’s best-known attractions, the Jardin Majorelle. Lovingly crafted by artist Jacques Majorelle, the avenues of the garden, lined with lush green cacti, palms and ferns, offer a welcome island of tranquillity among the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Further afield, kids will be awed by the natural beauty of Ouzoud Falls, a popular destination that can be visited as a day trip from Marrakech. You can take a boat to the base of the falls, go for a refreshing dip, and hike up to a viewpoint that’s home to monkeys.

Best Beaches in Morocco: Coastal Gems for Your Moroccan Holiday

Morocco, with its extensive coastline, offers some of the most stunning beaches in North Africa, each with its unique charm and appeal. Whether you're looking to unwind on golden sands or indulge in water sports, Morocco's beaches are a highlight of any Moroccan holiday.

Agadir: Morocco's Premier Seaside Resort

Agadir is Morocco's top seaside destination, boasting an impressive 11-kilometre-long beach. This vast crescent of golden sand offers ample space for relaxation and sunbathing, making it a perfect retreat. Sheltered from strong winds, it provides a more serene beach experience, though visitors should be mindful of the undertow.

Essaouira: A Haven for Wind Sports

Known for its breezy conditions, Essaouira is ideal for wind sports enthusiasts. The expansive beach here is a popular spot for surfing and kitesurfing, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world. The combination of wind and waves makes Essaouira a must-visit for those seeking an active beach day on their Moroccan holiday.

Legzira Beach: Natural Wonders

Legzira Beach is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, characterised by epic arches of red stone that stretch across the shore. This stunning geological formation, coupled with the beach's serene atmosphere, makes Legzira a spectacular and photogenic destination on Morocco's coastline.

Taghazout: Charm and Beauty Combined

Taghazout offers a picturesque setting, blending the beauty of a bay with the charm of a former fishing village. Known for its relaxed vibe and beautiful views, Taghazout is a favourite among both beachgoers and surfers, adding a quaint charm to Morocco's beach scene.

Morocco's beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful, offering something for every kind of traveller. From the bustling sands of Agadir to the windswept shores of Essaouira, and the natural spectacle of Legzira to the quaint charm of Taghazout, these coastal gems are essential for a complete Moroccan holiday experience.

What to Eat in Morocco: Culinary Delights on Your Morocco Holiday

Morocco's cuisine is an exquisite tapestry of flavours and aromas essential to the Moroccan holiday experience. A standout dish is the tagine, named after the cone-shaped pot it's traditionally cooked in. This slow-cooked savoury stew, a cornerstone of Moroccan gastronomy, can feature a variety of meats, including chicken, lamb, and beef. For vegetarians, there are delightful vegetable versions, richly seasoned with spices like paprika and chilli, making it a versatile dish for all palates.

Tagine: The Quintessential Moroccan Dish

The tagine, synonymous with Moroccan cuisine, is not just about the ingredients but also about the unique cooking method. The slow simmering process in the distinctive pot imparts an unparalleled depth of flavour to the dish, whether it's meat-based or a vegetarian variant. It's a must-try for anyone on a Morocco holiday.

Couscous: A Staple of Moroccan Cuisine

Equally important in Moroccan dining is couscous. Often cooked in the same vessel as a tagine, couscous in Morocco is traditionally served with vegetables or as a hearty stew with meat. This versatile dish showcases the simplicity and richness of Moroccan flavours and is a staple worth exploring during your stay in Morocco.

Msemen: A Sweet Moroccan Treat

For a sweet indulgence, msemen, a square-shaped pancake, is a popular choice. Often served at breakfast or teatime, it's accompanied by honey, adding a delightful sweetness. Paired with Morocco's national drink Рspearmint tea with plenty of sugar, affectionately known as “Berber whiskey” Рmsemen offers a glimpse into the Moroccan way of life.

Exploring Morocco's culinary scene is a journey through a rich tapestry of tastes and traditions integral to any Morocco holiday. From the iconic tagine to the humble msemen, each dish tells a story of cultural heritage and culinary ingenuity, making 'What to Eat in Morocco' a key aspect of your travel experience.