From Medinas to Mountains: A Magical Morocco 7 Day Itinerary

Fly into Casablanca in the morning. Meet your driver and guide as you depart for the historic city of Fes.

On the way, stop at the ancient Imazighen (Berber)-Roman ruins at Volubilis. While they are indeed “ruins,” much is incredibly well preserved considering their age.

Afterwards, visit Domaine de la Zouina, a local vineyard for a wine tasting and lunch. (While Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, alcohol is readily available.) Clink!

Upon arrival in Fes, settle in and relax at the incredible Riad Fes. Take a moment to enjoy the smell of neroli and the delicious dates with walnuts in your room. Later, feast upon your first tagine at the lovely restaurant onsite, Gayza.

Fes is the spiritual capital of Morocco, and a great first stop. Fes feels like the most authentic version of Morocco. Explore the historical monuments of the city, including the Royal Palace and the world’s oldest university, al-Qarawiyyin, founded by a woman.

Check out the world-famous leather tanneries. You will be handed a bundle of mint sprigs to help with the potent smell, but it is definitely worthwhile. End your day with a street food tour! From camel burgers to snails, be ready for some adventurous eats!

Take a quick flight the next morning from Fes to Marrakech. Check into the visually stunning Oberoi hotel, making your way through the beautiful groves of trees and refreshing yourself with a quick plunge before heading into town.

Spend your days exploring the local monuments, medinas and souks. One standout is the Koutoubia Mosque, the oldest mosque in Marrakech. Get lost in the winding old town medina (not really — please bring a guide! It is very easy to lose your way without one) and explore the souk. Incredible shopping awaits, from rugs to lamps to door knockers — this is a shopper's dream!

The Jardin Majorelle is an Instagram staple — it is a visually striking garden owned by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. Within its bosom is the Pierre Bergé Museum of the Berber Arts, an incredible collection of the Imazighen creativity and culture. The next-door YSL museum is a must for the sartorialist in your life — the vibrant hues and spectacular designs are worthy of an afternoon.

Dine at Dar Yacout for incredible riad ambiance and traditional Moroccan cuisine in the heart of the medina. Or, if you are ready for a change of cuisine, Nama at Amanjena is an incredible Japanese restaurant.

The next day, head to the Atlas Mountains for a hike and a stop for tea in an Amazigh home. Learn how they make the Moroccan mint tea they are famous for. When you hear the call to prayer, try to stop and soak it in. The way it echoes throughout the mountains is a humbling experience.

Wake up early to take a day trip to the Sahara desert. Ride camels along the dunes or take a hot air balloon ride for incredible views of the desert. You can even sandboard on the dunes. If you are feeling adventurous, consider spending the night for a "glamping" tent experience under the stars.

End your trip in the relaxed sea town of Essaouira. Start your morning with a coffee and pastry at Patisserie Driss before exploring the town.

Enjoy lunch on the patio of Il Mare with live Essaouiran music. The frequency of this music is the highest of vibes! Check it out on Spotify to get an idea of the energy.

After a full day, go back to the hotel and experience the local tradition of hammam. The Moroccan equivalent of Turkish baths, this extreme exfoliation treatment is something locals participate in bimonthly or more!

On your last morning, wake up early for a walk on the beach and an early morning horseback ride. Take a deep breath of the salty sea air. Take it all in at your last dinner at the very hip and moody Dar Baba.