Fes
Fes, one of the most beautiful medina with its radiating imperial aura is a custodian of the 13 centuries of Moroccan history and the capital of the traditional culture of Morocco. Cradle of knowledge, its superb medersas are its flamboyant symbol. Walk through the walls that guard the celebrated Medina of Fez, whose outstanding universal value has been recognized by UNESCO. Meander along the streets of the Fes-El-Bali district. A must visit is the Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, which is located only five minutes from Volubilis, a historic, worthwhile and revealing Roman city. Take time to roam throughout the ruins, which are cluttered with excavation sites, tombs and crumbling walls. An essential element to a visit to Fez is a guided tour of the ancient medina. With over 9,000 alleys and roads, a guide will be sure to show you all the important sights, while getting you around without becoming overly lost! On such a visit, you will be able to see the Kairaouine Mosque, spice market, tanneries, leather market, pottery The month of May has the city’s squares and streets come to life with music from around the world as the Sacred Music Festival takes over the one-time imperial capital. Along with the Jazz in Riads festival, it is one of the city’s cultural highlights. Don’t leave without sampling the city’s extraordinary cuisine, which is considered to be among the best in the world.
Mekenes
Its medina and the vestiges of the royal palace have earned Meknès to be classified as a World Heritage of UNESCO. Today, protected by forty kilometers of defensive walls and 15 m high, pierced by nine monumental gates, it has preserved imposing key monuments, including twenty-five mosques which earned it the nickname “hundred minarets “. Explore the Roman archeological open air museum, Spanish Moorish art, the royal stables and granary of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Its triumphal arch, capitol and house of Bacchus attest to the splendor of the city, as well as its economic and political significance. The city of Mekenes offers a timeless experience.
Rabat
Rabat the capital of the kingdom of Morocco enjoys a privileged location on the Atlantic coast boasts an exceptionally rich culture and history. Its streets and public squares are full of masterpieces. Pay a visit to the Kasbah of the Udayas, whose grand, majestic silhouette is softened by the surrounding gardens. Not far beyond its walls lies the Chellah, a necropolis that dates to the Marinids. Entering the complex is like journeying to another world: marvel at the ancient remains as you walk through the gardens and glimpse a few storks. The city of Rabat is punctuated by parks, such as the Botanical Test Gardens and the Bouknadel Exotic Gardens just a few miles from the city. Rabat also has a well-developed ocean front. There are miles of improved beaches that run along the Atlantic coast all the way to the neighboring Casablanca. These all add to the appeal of Rabat, where the treasures of the past coexist with the most modern and eco-friendly achievements.
Marrakesh
A mixture of traditional and contemporary, Marrakech holds the promise of incomparable sensations. Stroll through the Jemaa El Fna and the bazaars with their bright colors and oriental scents, and the red city will whisk you into another world in the blink of an eye. Rides in horse-drawn carriages, sun-soaked terraces, street artists and other activities both day and night will all add to your stay in Morocco. Admire the architectural wealth of the Medina by visiting one of its many riads, small oriental palaces arranged around a central courtyard, or relax at the Menara, a large pooled garden typical of the city. Marrakech relies on its incredible diversity to provide choice for its visitors. You need only head out of the walled center to become immersed in contemporary Morocco. The Guéliz and Hivernage districts offer the most up to date infrastructure, luxury boutiques and international brands along broad spacious avenues; all in Marrakech’s own inimitable style. Enjoy Marrakech at night by paying a visit to the many themed venues, trendy clubs and traditional evenings that reflect the zest for life of its inhabitants. Located in the valley of the High Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is often the starting point for many Morocco trekking excursions. If you have time, you may want to take a few extra days in the High Atlas Mountains visiting Berber villages, enjoying the crisp air of higher altitudes or simply relaxing in a mountain lodge.
