Road Trip Through Morocco

Must-see sites

• Experience the bustling and vibrant alleyways of Marrakesh's medina in Old Town. Whether you are looking to buy or just look, it's and experience that engages all the senses through its varied souks filled with colorful spices, textiles, metalwork and much, much more.

• Don't miss the main square of Marrakesh' old town, Jemaa el-Fnaa. It's a huge square with a festival-like atmosphere, but it truly comes alive after dark. Listen to its sounds as you navigate unlimited options for traditional food. If you are looking for action, look no further. There is always something interesting to see.

• Walk the history of Bahia Palace, and see the beauty of traditional Moroccan architecture, design with its intricate tilework and woodwork. View its stunning gardens, courtyards and rooms and experience the subtle grandeur of this open-air museum.

• If you love botanical gardens, then visit Jardin Marjorelle-Yves Saint Laurent Mansion. It's an artistic landscape filled with hundreds of plant species from all over the world, complimented by blue art-deco architecture. This a peaceful oasis from the crowded medina of Marrakesh.

• If you intend to visit beyond just Marrakesh, make your way to the Todra Gorge, deep in the Atlas Mountains to experience this natural oasis. You may take a bus from Marrakesh to Tinghir or you can drive, which will take you about six hours. The scenery on the way is breathtaking. Whether you are seeking tranquility or adventure, this dramatic landscape has something for everyone. Whether you're hiking and biking the Mars-like paths, wandering through the local villages or Todra palmeraie, make sure your camera is charged. You'll want all the photos of this stunning scenery.

• Spend time in the Desert! Erg Chebbi is located in the Sahara Desert, near the border with Algeria and northeast of the Little Atlas mountain range. The town of Merzouga is a gateway to Erg Chebbi, with the dunes about a 10-minute drive to the north. Take a camel ride through the desert and stay in a luxury camp surrounded by the red sand dunes. Enjoy the silence and starlit sky as you sit outside among the dunes. It is recommended to stay at least one night to experience the beauty of the sunset and sunrise over the dunes. If you have the time, stay an extra night to explore and take in the local sites and activities in the desert.

• You can't mention Morocco without mentioning the ancient walled medina of Fes. Get your walking shoes on and explore the narrow streets of this spiritual and cultural capital. Take your time exploring the medieval walls of this wonderfully chaotic medina. Discover towers of spices, traditional handicrafts, hammams, apothecaries, tanneries and so much more. This UNESCO world heritage site will transport you back to Medieval times with its maze-like quarters and car-free streets as you discover its ancient charms. There are beautiful surprises around every corner! If you are planning to stay in Fes, it is best to book a riad within the city walls.Cars are not allowed, and it is where you will end up spending most of your time.

• Welcome to the Blue City! Chefchaouen, notably called, "The Blue Pearl," is made for taking photos and exploring its blue-washed buildings. Located in the Riff mountains, it is the ideal place to slow down and leisurely wander the along the stone pathways, exploring the shops behind the blue walls. At every turn, there is a new subtlety to the shades of blue, a new mosaic pattern to admire. The small streets and alleys are quiet, not teeming with shops and the frenetic energy that defines other cities in Morocco. One path intersects another in the pleasantly confusing area that is the Chefchaouen Medina. A perfect day might include a morning stroll through the medina, enjoying lunch and mint tea overlooking the city. During the afternoon, get a scrub at a hammam spa, then enjoying a meal in the square while listening to some traditional music. Soak in the slow pace and spend at least two nights to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this Northern city.

Day Trips

• From Marrakesh: Looking for a little adventure? Venture to Ait Ben Haddou for the day. It's a 3.5-hour drive, but completely worth it, if you have the time. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site where popular movies and shows like Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, The Mummy and Game of Thrones have been filmed. Entering its red clay walls is like stepping back in time, and although mostly uninhabited, there are still a few families who reside within. Wandering the streets through the labyrinth of narrow passageways, you can feel what it was like to live and work in this once-bustling town. At first disorienting, but you quickly find your footing as you allow yourself to explore all the secrets behind the beautifully preserved complex. Don't miss the beautiful panoramas as you make your way up to the top. It is free to visit, and you may take as long or as short as you like to experience this ancient wonder.

• From Chefchaouen: If you are looking for some summer fun, check out Talassemtane National Park. Explore the natural beauty of the Riff mountains by hiking the Bridge of God and Akchour waterfalls, both of which have beautiful but chilly swimming holes to cool off. There are multiple hikes that range from 1/2 days to full days, which can easily be done without a guide. It's a hidden gem that offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Northern Morocco while experiencing the local culture and history.

Marrakesh

• Cafe Des Espices: Perfect for breakfast or lunch of charming, with offers of traditional Moroccan dishes or Western dishes as well. Enjoy your meal on the charming rooftop terrace overlooking Rabha Kedima Square.

• Amal: Located in the new town of Marrakesh, this is a hidden gem that is a lunch-only spot (noon-3:30). The menu features ever-changing seasonal offerings of traditional Moroccan and international cuisine. This is a non-profit training restaurant that hires only underprivileged women to learn the trade and enter the work force. Service is warm, welcoming and professional with delicious food. Friday is a special day where the only dish served is couscous, which is their specialty. Go and enjoy some mouthwatering Tagine in their charming courtyard.

• Dar Zellij: This is a culinary oasis in the heart of the medina serving traditional Moroccan food. Located in a beautifully restored riad, with a warm, authentic ambiance, this high-end restaurant explodes with Moroccan flavors and generous portions. Don't forget to grab on the rooftop with views of the Atlas Mountains. Avoid a long wait time by making a reservation through OpenTable for dinner.

• Kasbah Cafe: This is a casual but unique spot, overlooking the medina, with Andalusian art and decor, that is a highlight of the visit. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and serves up generous portions of both local and global cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan menus are also available to guests.

Fes

• Darori Resto: Probably one of the the best local restaurants in Fez, located in a preserved traditional riad in the heart of the medina. It is set along a narrow alleyway. The main door is relatively obscure, so you may walk by it without even knowing it. So keep a close eye as you use your GPS to find it. Open the door and you will find everything 100 percent traditional and authentically Moroccan, from the food to the decor to the staff. Decor features an indoor garden, a colored glass ceiling and walls adorned with gorgeous tilework. Only local and fresh ingredients are used, with as much Moroccan spices as you can take. Sit back and let the delicious gourmet food melt in your mouth, soak in the warm atmosphere and enjoy the welcoming service. It is open for lunch and dinner, but make a reservation if you want a seat at this hidden gem.

• Dar Roumana: Located in a beautifully restored riad in the medina, and serves a fusion of French and Moroccan cuisine. They are open for dinner and have a daily-changing menu based on in-season availability of local ingredients, which makes for some delicious dishes. Start with a drink on the rooftop terrace before making your way down to the warm ambiance of the courtyard for dinner. They also a porter service to and from your hotel if your unsure of navigating the medina in the evening. Reservations are required.

• The Fez Cafe: A popular bistro set in the guesthouse of Jardin des Biehn, and serves up Moroccan cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. Enjoy your lunch or dinner in the garden oasis, on the rooftop under the sun and stars or inside among the creative and charming decor from around the world. Dishes include meat, fish and vegetarian & vegan options. Don't forget a class in Moroccan wine as you take a break from the vibrant medina. This popular eatery requires a reservation. Porter service to and from your hotel is also available.

Chefchaoen

• Cafe Restaurant Sofia: This small, unassuming restaurant is situated away from the busier medina. It is popular with both locals and tourists, and is the first female-owned eatery in town. Cuisine showcases traditional, homemade and fresh Moroccan dishes, coupled with some Mediterranean courses, and includes vegetarian and vegan options available. Serves lunch and dinner and only accepts cash payment.

• Mandala: Although this is not a restaurant serving Moroccan dishes, it does serve a delicious break with pizza and pasta as its highlights. This quaint eatery offers a limited menu compared to other restaurants around, but what they cook, they cook well. The staff is welcoming and warm to its tourist clientele, whether you are dining in or taking away.

All three locations

• Cafe Clock: This cafe/alcohol-free restaurant is health-conscious and offers traditional Western & Moroccan food. Try their famous camel burger, if you are feeling adventurous. Enjoy live music in the evening, various nightly activities and cultural workshops during the day. This is an all-around great place to chill since the decor has a lived-in, fun and funky Moroccan vibe.