Best 10 Days In Morocco Itinerary [Self-Guided]

Looking for a 10 days in Morocco itinerary that covers all the highlights the country has to offer? 

I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Morocco several times, and during my latest trip, I spent three weeks travelling around this incredible country. I revisited some favourite spots and discovered new ones, soaking in all that Morocco is known for. 

This Morocco 10 day itinerary includes exploring the ancient medinas of Marrakech, wandering the beautiful blue streets of Chefchaouen, and even spending a night under the stars in the Sahara Desert and more. 

In this guide, I’m sharing my first-hand experiences of how to get around, the best things to see, and scams to avoid.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Morocco and looking for a self-guided adventure, this itinerary is packed with all the travel tips you’ll need to create the journey of a lifetime.

How To Spend 10 Days In Morocco

This itinerary is based on the route I took – I started in Casablanca and finished in Marrakech.

If you’re starting from a different location then tweak my 10 days in Morocco guide to suit you.

10 Day Itinerary in Morocco: Day-by-Day Breakdown

• Day 1: Casablanca
• Day 2 & 3: Chefchaouen 
• Day 4: Fes (optional stop at Volubilis Ruins)
• Day 5 & 6: Marrakech (optional stop at Rabat)
• Day 7: Sahara Camp
• Day 8 & 9: Essaouira
• Day 10: Marrakech

👉 Note: Follow this in reverse and you could easily do this as a Morocco 10 day itinerary from Marrakech instead.

Morocco Itinerary Map

The map below shows the main locations included in this Morocco 10 days itinerary. 

Click on the map for the interactive version.

Highlights of This Morocco 10 Day Itinerary

• Discover the city of Marrakech and explore its bustling souks
• Explore Fez and the world’s largest medina
• Camp overnight and watch the stars in the Sahara Desert
• Get lost in the alleyways of Chefchaouen, the iconic blue city
• Take a tour inside the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
• Visit 19th-century Bahia Palace
• Relax in Essaouira, the vibrant seaside town
• See the Roman Ruins of Volubilis
• Wander around the Jardin Majorelle, Yves Saint Laurent Gardens
• Eat copious amounts of traditional Moroccan food

Planning A Trip to Morocco: Know Before You Go

How Many Days Should I Stay In Morocco?

I suggest spending at least 10 days in Morocco if you want to see the main highlights. I’ve visited the country several times, exploring different areas each trip, and while I prefer slow travel, I know that’s not always possible for everyone. 

In 10 action-packed days, you can still experience Morocco’s best sights without feeling too rushed.

Best Season To Visit Morocco

I’ve visited Morocco in the spring, summer and autumn. 

Of those, I recommend visiting Morocco in the spring or autumn which is when the weather is most comfortable. Just keep in mind that the mountain areas can get a bit chilly. 

Summer, on the other hand, can be incredibly hot—I remember being in the desert in August, and there was no escape from the heat!

Winters can be chilly, also November to January are the wettest months so I’ve always avoided visiting then.

Getting to Morocco

There are a few ways to get to Morocco, although for this trip, I recommend flying there.

Here are your options:

• Flying: Morocco has 10 international airports. I usually fly into either Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca or Marrakech (RAK), depending on my travel plans. Both airports are well-connected and convenient for starting your adventure.
• Road Trip: If you’re adding Morocco to a Spain and Portugal trip, it’s easy to catch a ferry from Algeciras or Tarifa in Spain to Tangier. The ferry ride is short, and Tangier is a fantastic starting point for a full Morocco road trip!

Getting Around Morocco 

There are plenty of options for travelling around Morocco:

🚆 Travel in Morocco by Train

I suggest using the train if you’re travelling between major cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca. It’s affordable, comfortable, and a great way to see the countryside. However, quite a few places in this Morocco trip itinerary aren’t accessible by train.

🚌 Travel in Morocco by Bus

Buses are the most common way to travel across Morocco. They connect almost every part of the country, including remote areas. Companies like CTM and Supratours offer reliable service. I’ve used buses for long distances, and while they take a bit longer, they’re a budget-friendly choice.

🚕 Travel in Morocco by Taxi

Taxis are handy for shorter trips within cities or towns. Because you’re trying to see a lot of Morocco in 10 days, it might be better to use a private transfer rather than wait for public transport. I recommend always agreeing on the fare before your ride, as local taxis don’t use meters. You can use them for longer distances although if you’re travelling solo it can work out expensive.

🚗 Travel in Morocco by Car

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially if you want to visit places off the beaten path. I’ve enjoyed the flexibility of driving myself, but remember that some roads can be challenging, especially in rural areas. I also wouldn’t want to drive much within the cities – it’s too busy.

Choosing Your Accommodation in Morocco

When you book your accommodation in Morocco, you could opt for hotels, but instead, I recommend trying a mix of different types to enhance your experience:

• Riads: These traditional houses with inner courtyards are my favourite. They offer an authentic stay in the heart of cities like Marrakech and Fes.
• Dars: Similar to Riads but usually smaller, Dars are cosy and often more affordable. 
• Kasbahs: You’ll find these in more rural areas as well as the desert. A Kasbah is a fortified home often with an outer wall and smaller buildings inside.
• Berber Camps: I highly recommend spending a night in a Berber camp in the Sahara Desert. Camps range from basic to luxury desert glamping.

Best 10 Day Morocco Itinerary

Day 1: Casablanca

Casablanca is the financial capital of Morocco. It has a mix of modern architecture and traditional Moroccan culture. In my honest opinion, it’s not the most beautiful city in Morocco.

However, there’s enough to keep you busy for 24 hours in Casablanca.

Top Things To Do In Casablanca

• Visit the Hassan II Mosque
• Walk along Boulevard de la Corniche
• Take a Casablanca city tour

If you’re wondering what to see in Casablanca, I highly recommend the beautiful Hassan II Mosque as the number 1 thing to do.

If you have time, some other things thing to add to your Casablanca itinerary include a city-guided tour and walking along the promenade – you can get an amazing shot of the mosque at sunset from here. 

Visiting The Hassan II Mosque

If you have less than a day in Casablanca, then the one thing I highly recommend visiting is the Hassan II Mosque.

It’s the largest mosque in Morocco and one of the most stunning landmarks in the country. The mosque’s location right on the Atlantic Ocean makes it even more spectacular.

Visiting this iconic building requires a bit of planning since it’s not open to non-Muslims at all times. I suggest checking the opening hours before you go. 

Also, keep in mind that women must wear clothing that covers their shoulders, arms, and legs—though you don’t need to cover your head.

You can only visit as part of a guided tour – which I found to be incredibly informative. The guides explain the mosque’s interesting history and point out unique features, my favourite feature was the retractable roof in the central hall that opens to the sky!

After the tour, you can wander the grounds on your own. This gives you a chance to take in the sheer scale of the building and its beautiful surroundings.

Getting to Casablanca from Casablanca Airport

I suggest a few options for getting from Casablanca Airport to the city:

• Taxi: The most convenient option is taking a taxi from the station outside Terminal 1. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes.
• Private Transfer: For a better price, you can arrange a private transfer in advance.
• Public Transport: The airport shuttle bus is another option, taking about 45 minutes and running every 30 minutes.

Where To Stay In Casablanca

Day 2 & 3: Chefchaouen 

In the morning, transfer to Chefchaouen, or simply, Chaouen by the locals.

I’d seen the stunning photos of Chefchaouen so many times, so for me, this was pretty high on my Morocco bucket list – and it didn’t disappoint. This is unarguably one of the most beautiful places in Morocco. 

Top 3 Things To Do In Chefchaouen

• Get lost in the photogenic blue streets
• Hike up to the Spanish Mosque at sunset
• Shop in the artisan markets

Chefchaouen Itinerary

Located in the Rif Mountains, this city is famous for its distinctive blue-washed buildings and charming cobblestone alleys.

Start by getting lost in the maze-like streets of the Medina – it’s easy to whittle away a few hours doing this. I lost count of how many photos I took here. 

The Medina of Chefchaouen is incredibly photogenic. Explore by yourself, or take a private walking tour to discover all the best spots.

The city is made up of cobblestone alleys winding up a hillside of blue-washed homes and blooming flowerpots. You’ll also notice that many locals have set up props and photo spots where they charge a fee for visitors to pose and take pictures.

Aside from spending hours getting lost in the streets – this is not a bad thing -there are also plenty of souks. It’s one of the best places to visit in Morocco for artisan shops where you can find traditional crafts, clothing, and textiles.

Chefchaouen is also a great destination for hikers. There are plenty of trails to explore the nearby mountain landscape. 

Getting to Chefchaouen from Casablanca

Here are three ways to get from Casablanca to Chefchaouen:

• Drive: The most convenient option is to drive the 445 km (277 miles) route. It takes about 5 hours if you go direct. Check car rental prices here.
• Public Bus: Another option is to take a public bus, which takes around 6 hours. Tickets cost roughly $20 for a single journey. Check bus times and availability.
• Organised Tour: If you prefer not to drive or navigate public transport, you can join an organised private tour from Casablanca to Chefchaouen for a hassle-free experience.

Where to Stay in Chefchaouen

Day 4: Fes (option of Volubilis Ruins)

Today, you’ll be heading to Fes via Volubilis.

As a huge fan of temples and ruins so Volubilis was a highlight for me. If you’re also a fan of ancient ruins, then this is one of the top things to see in Morocco.

If you’re not that bothered about seeing Volubilis, then skip it and head straight to Fes instead. 

Volubilis Ruins

This UNESCO-listed ancient Berber-Roman settlement was once believed to have been the capital of the Kingdom of Mauretania.

The ruins of Volubilis give insight into their culture and life during the time Morocco was occupied by the Romans.

There’s quite a lot to see here, but some of the highlights are the stunning mosaics that have been incredibly well-preserved as well as the House of Orpheus and the triumphal arch, which are both iconic photo spots. 

Volubilis is quite expansive, so you’ll probably want a couple of hours here to explore. Also, there’s very little shade, so be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if you visit in the summer. 

I also recommend arriving early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Top 3 Things To Do In Fes

• Explore the Medina of Fes
• Shop in the Souks
• Visit the Chouara Tannery

Fes Itinerary

After exploring the Volubilis ruins, head to Fes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities – the other three are Rabat, Marrakesh and Meknes.

This ancient city is located in the foothills of the Middle Atlas mountains and is packed with history, culture, and beautiful architecture – there are so many amazing things to see in Fes, so if you did choose to skip Volubilis, you won’t be disappointed spending extra time here.

Start in the Medina of Fes, which is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medina is a maze of narrow alleys, bustling souks, and historic buildings. I really do recommend taking a guided tour of Fes Medina, as it can overwhelming with its labyrinth of streets. 

Most tours include a stop here, but if yours doesn’t, make sure to visit Al Attarine Madrasa. It’s a beautifully preserved example of Islamic architecture, featuring intricate tilework and detailed carvings.

Next, take time to explore the Souk de Fes, where you’ll find everything from spices to jewellery. You’ll want to spend plenty of time exploring everything here – unless you visit on a Friday as this is their religious day.

Morocco is known for its leather products and you can visit a tannery in fes. The Chouara Tannery is the largest and oldest of three tanneries in fes. It’s located in Fes el Bali, the oldest medina quarter of the city.

While it’s visually impressive, be prepared for the strong smell. 

As a vegetarian, I found the experience challenging  – mostly because of the smell! They do give you a bunch of mint leaves to sniff on when you visit in an attempt to mask the aromas. 

Although I didn’t love the experience, more because of sensory reasons, the tannery is undeniably a key part of Fes’s cultural heritage. So make your own judgement on whether or not you visit. I don’t regret seeing it, but I wouldn’t rush to go again.

Getting to Fes from Chefchaouen (via Volubilis Ruins)

Here are the main two ways to get from Chefchaouen to Fes:

• By Car: The most scenic option is driving. It takes about 3 hours to reach Volubilis through beautiful mountain and countryside views. From there, it’s another 1 hour 30 minutes to Fes.
• By Bus: If you don’t have a car, skip Volubilis and take a bus directly from Chefchaouen to Fes. The journey takes around 4 hours 30 minutes. Check bus times here.

Where to Stay in Fes

Day 5 & 6: Marrakech (optional stop in Rabat)

Your Morocco 10 day itinerary continues to Marrakech.

The journey from Fes to Marrakech is quite long, so you could opt to break it up by stopping in the nation’s capital, Rabat.

Although Rabat is the capital, it wasn’t my favourite city in Morocco. I suggest going straight to Marrakech where there’s a lot more to see and do.

Top 3 Things To Do In Marrakech

• Majorelle Garden by Yves Saint Laurent
• The 19th Century Bahia Palace
• Souvenir shopping in the souks

Marrakech Itinerary

I love Marrakech is one of my favourite cities in Morocco it’s packed with history, and gorgeous architecture, and has a vibrant energy – if not a little chaotic at times. 

It’s one of the most popular destinations in Morocco and has a wide variety of attractions to explore.

I recommend starting your visit in the heart of the action—the Medina of Marrakech.

The winding ancient alleyways are the perfect place to get lost in the history and culture of Morocco. Highlights in the historic centre include The Koutoubia Mosque and Saadian Tombs. 

Also don’t miss Jemaa el-Fna Square which buzzes with life, especially in the evenings. 

You’ll find everything from snake charmers to food stalls. It can feel a little overwhelming here, if you’re struggling then head to one of the roof-top bars and view it from above. Although the service and menu weren’t great, Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier does have one of the best views over the square.

The souks are another great way to experience Marrakech. Typical souvenirs I usually pick up here are colourful textiles, spices, and other handmade crafts. Don’t be shy to negotiate; it’s part of the fun! 

If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, Marrakech has some beautiful gardens. The Majorelle Garden by Yves Saint Laurent is one of my favourites—it’s a serene escape with stunning blue buildings surrounded by exotic plants and another must do in Morocco. 

Other peaceful spots include the Menara Gardens and Jardin Secret.

Marrakech is also home to several stunning palaces. 

The 19th-century Bahia Palace is a must-see, with its exquisite tilework and tranquil courtyards. For more history, visit the El Badi Palace, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy views from the terraces.

Getting to Marrakech from Fes (via Rabat)

I suggest travelling from Fes to Marrakech via Rabat if you have time. It breaks up the 5-hour journey and gives you a chance to explore the national capital.

• Driving: The most efficient option is driving, allowing flexibility to stop in Rabat. It’s around a 5-and-a-half-hour journey.
• Public Transport: Alternatively, take the train. You’ll need to do two separate journeys. The first from Fes to Rabat, and then another from Rabat to Marrakech. Check out bus and train connections here.

Where To Stay In Marrakech

I recommend staying in the Medina, even though it’s central you can still find affordable accommodation here. 

Find some of the best budget friendly Riads in Marrakech here.

Day 7: Desert Camp

One of the top sights in Morocco is the Sahara Desert. And camping there overnight appears on most people’s Mococco bucket list. 

The Sahara Desert is the largest non-polar desert in the world, stretching across nine countries and encompassing an area of over 3 million square miles.

Visiting this vast expanse of sand dunes is truly something special that you won’t forget anytime soon. 

Top 3 Things To Do In The Desert

• Learn how to tie a turban from the Bedouin people
• Watch the sunset or sunrise over the desert
• Ride a 4×4 over the dunes

Experiencing The Desert

There are plenty of ways to experience the Sahara Desert. The one I suggest is camping overnight, but you can also opt for sandboarding, Jeep safaris and quad biking. 

If you opt to go camping overnight in the Sahara, you’ll get to experience one of the most beautiful sunsets you will have ever seen. The sky lightly up in a range of glorious oranges and reds that seem to stretch on forever. It’s also one of the best places to watch stars because there’s next to no light pollution here.

One of the best ways to explore the desert is either on a Jeep safari or hire a quad bike.

Before setting out into the dunes, your Bedouin hosts will show you how to tie a turban from a scarf. These are perfect for keeping the sand out of my face.

Aside from the desert itself, there’s plenty to explore nearby. If you’re into history, then I 100% recommend visiting the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou. For nature lovers, the Dades Gorge and Draa Valley have stunning landscapes, and the enormous sand dunes of Erg Chebbi are a sight you won’t want to miss.

Getting From Marrakech to the Sahara Desert

Here are the main ways to get from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert:

• Take a Tour: The fastest and easiest option is to join an organised tour, usually in a 4×4 vehicle, which takes you directly to the desert. This is hassle-free and includes guided activities.
• Driving Yourself: If you’ve rented a car, I don’t suggest driving to the desert. The terrain is tough, and any damage could result in hefty fees.

Day 8 & 9: Essaouira

After leaving the desert, your Morocco trip carries on to the seaside city of Essaouira.

I love Essaouira for its unique mix of vibrant culture and relaxed beach-town atmosphere. The city is packed with markets and boutique shops offering everything from clothing and jewellery to homewares and artwork. Plus, the city is teeming with cats—you’ll spot them lounging all over the place!

Top 3 Things To Do In Essaouira

• Relax on Essaouira Beach
• Learn to surf
• Shop for boutique and artisan items

Essaouira Itinerary

This charming coastal city has a laid-back vibe and cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect place to escape the intense heat you’ll find in cities like Marrakech and Fes, especially during summer. 

One of the highlights is Essaouira Beach, which is a popular spot for surf schools. If you’ve been wanting to learn to surf here could be a great place to do it.

The Medina in Essaouira feels more relaxed compared to the ones in Marrakech and Fes.

It’s full of boutique shops and artisan stalls selling everything from handcrafted jewellery to unique homewares. 

You can spend hours wandering the narrow streets, picking up one-of-a-kind souvenirs and admiring the vibrant street art. I also suggest spending some time exploring the sea walls, the small stalls hidden inside them. Also, don’t miss the old harbour, where you’ll find colourful fishing boats and stunning views of the ocean.

Essaouira, like everywhere I’ve mentioned in this article, is another incredibly photogenic city. Take a guided tour of the old town who will point out the best spots.

Getting to Essaouira from Marrakech

Here are the best options to get to Essaouira from Marrakech.

• By Car: The quickest way is by car, taking about three hours. If you don’t have a car, you can easily book a private transfer for convenience.
• By Bus: Another option is taking a bus, which costs less than $10 and runs several times a day. The journey takes a bit longer, but it’s budget-friendly and reliable. Check bus times here.

Where To Stay In Essaouira

Day 10: Marrakech

The final leg of your 10 days in Morocco has come to an end.

For your final day, you could either stay in Essaouira or head back to Marrakech to do anything you missed.

Spend the day picking up any last-minute souvenirs before heading to the airport. 

How to Spend More Than 10 Days in Morocco

If you’re able to extend your trip, then I recommend adding these destinations to your Morocco travel itinerary.

Atlas Mountains

If you’re interested in stunning scenery, scenic drives and hiking, then you’ll love the Atlas Mountains –  they are also home to the highest peak in North Africa, Mount Toubkal

Getting off the beaten track slightly will also take you through traditional Berber villages where you can find rural and homely stays. 

Ait Benhaddou/Ouarzazate

Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate are must-visit spots in Morocco, especially if you’re into history or movies! 

Ait Benhaddou is a stunning ancient fortified village made of mud-brick buildings. It’s so unique that it’s been used as a location for many famous films and TV shows – one of the most famous is Gladiator (2000)

Ouarzazate is known as the is where you’ll find Atlas Studios – Morocco’s answer to Hollywood.  You can take a tour of the studios. The Taourirt Kasbah, a massive old palace, is also worth exploring. 

Scams in Morocco To Be Aware Of

It’s good to be aware of a few common scams in Morocco:

• Fake Guides: Some people may approach you offering to show you around, but then demand a high fee. Other times they might take you to a totally different place (usually a workshop or shop) where they are on a commission from any sales.
• “Free” Gifts: Vendors might offer you something “free” and then pressure you to buy more or pay for the gift afterwards.
• Overcharging: In markets, prices are frequently inflated for tourists. Haggling is expected, so negotiate the price before buying. Also, count your change in front of the vendor when it’s handed back – they often bank off people not checking properly.
• Taxi Meters: Lots of taxi drivers refuse to use the meter and then quote higher fares. Insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Fake Goods: Quote often the items in the souks have been made elsewhere. I visited a textile seller and they said all the scarves had been made on-site – I found several scarves with a “made in China” label on them.

How to Travel in Morocco: FAQs

I hope this 10 days Morocco itinerary from Casablanca helps you fall in love with Morocco just as much as I have. As you’ve just read, this packed itinerary gives you a decent flavour of what the country has to offer from its gorgeous cities, beautiful architecture and diverse landscapes all topped off with delicious food and welcoming people. I can’t wait to go back!

Have a question? then don’t forget to join our free Facebook Group and ask the community.

Want to discover more about Morocco? then check out these other great articles to find out more.

Morocco Travel Planning

• Where Is Morocco Located?
• Can You See Morocco From Spain?
• Best 10 Days Morocco Itinerary [Self-Guided]
• 14 Beautiful Cities in Morocco to Visit
• What to Wear in Morocco [Packing List]

Things To Do In Morocco

• 28 Best Things to Do in Morocco [Morocco Bucket List]
• Glamping Experience In The Sahara Desert, Morocco

Marrakech Travel

• Perfect 2 Days in Marrakech Itinerary
• 12 Affordable Riads in Marrakech