Imperial Cities Grand Tour: 8-Day Journey

Overview

Dive deep into the heart of Moroccan history and culture on this 8-day grand tour of the four Imperial Cities. Starting from Casablanca, this journey takes you to the modern capital of Rabat, the grand city of Meknes, the spiritual heart of Fes, and the vibrant energy of Marrakech. You'll explore ancient medinas, magnificent palaces, and bustling souks, all while staying in charming traditional riads.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is a comprehensive cultural immersion, perfect for first-time visitors or history enthusiasts who want to see the iconic cities of Morocco without the hassle of planning. It offers a well-paced itinerary that allows for in-depth exploration of each city's unique character. Travel in comfort with a private driver and let our expert local guides bring the rich history of Morocco to life.

Highlights

• Visit the four Imperial Cities of Morocco: Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech.
• Explore 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the medinas of Fes and Marrakech.
• Marvel at the stunning Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
• Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.
• Journey through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains.
• Stay in authentic and charming traditional riads.
• Enjoy guided tours with expert local guides in Fes and Marrakech.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca & Transfer to Rabat

Upon your arrival at Casablanca's Mohammed V Airport, you will be met by your driver. We will begin with a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world (exterior visit unless requested otherwise). Afterwards, we make the short, one-hour drive to Rabat, Morocco's political capital. Check into your riad and relax before your first evening in Morocco.

Day 2: Rabat Exploration & Journey to Fes

After breakfast, we'll explore Rabat's key historical sites. Visit the picturesque Oudayas Kasbah with its blue-and-white streets, the iconic Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic drive to the city of Fes, where you will check into your riad in the ancient medina.

Day 3: Exploring Fes

Today is dedicated to exploring Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, with an expert local guide. You'll navigate the labyrinthine streets of Fes el-Bali (the old medina), a UNESCO World Heritage site. We'll visit the famous Chaouara Tanneries (from a viewpoint), the Al-Qarawiyyin University (one of the oldest in the world), and admire the intricate tilework of the Bou Inania Madrasa. You'll also see the Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) and the old Jewish Quarter (Mellah).

Day 4: Day Trip to Meknes & Volubilis

We take a day trip to the nearby Imperial City of Meknes and the Roman ruins of Volubilis. In Meknes, once the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail, we'll admire the monumental Bab Mansour gate and visit the Royal Stables. We'll then journey to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, another UNESCO site with stunning, well-preserved mosaics that offer a glimpse into Morocco's ancient past. In the late afternoon, we return to Fes.

Day 5: Fes to Marrakech via the Atlas Mountains

Today is a long but scenic travel day as we journey from Fes to Marrakech. The route takes us through the beautiful Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane (the "Switzerland of Morocco"). We'll stop for lunch in a town along the way before continuing our drive through the varied Moroccan landscapes, arriving in Marrakech in the early evening.

Day 6: Discovering Marrakech

Immerse yourself in the "Red City" with a guided tour. We'll visit the stunning Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque (from the outside). In the afternoon, get lost in the vibrant atmosphere of the Djemaa el-Fna square, with its storytellers, musicians, and snake charmers, and explore the bustling souks of the medina with your guide.

Day 7: At Leisure in Marrakech or Optional Day Trip

Today is free for you to explore Marrakech at your own pace. You could revisit the souks for some last-minute shopping, relax with a traditional hammam spa treatment, or take an optional day trip to the beautiful coastal town of Essaouira or the High Atlas Mountains (bookable separately).

Day 8: Departure from Marrakech

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping. We will then transfer you to Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK) for your departure, filled with unforgettable memories of Morocco.

What's Included

• Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Experienced English-speaking driver for the entire tour.
• 7 nights' accommodation in well-located, charming riads/hotels.
• Breakfast daily.
• Local city guides in Fes and Marrakech.
• All hotel taxes.

What's Not Included

• Flights to and from Morocco.
• Lunches, dinners, and drinks.
• Entrance fees to monuments and sites (approx. 2-7 EUR per site).
• Travel insurance.
• Tips for guides and drivers.

FAQ

What is a Riad? A riad is a traditional Moroccan house built around an interior courtyard or garden. Staying in riads is a unique cultural experience that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. Our selected riads are clean, comfortable, and centrally located.

Is this tour physically demanding? The tour involves a significant amount of walking, especially within the medinas where cars cannot enter. A moderate level of fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the city tours. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

What currency should I bring? The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are widely available in the cities, and credit cards are accepted in many larger hotels and restaurants, but it's essential to have cash for smaller shops, cafes, and souks.