8 days

Duration

English, german, french & arabic speaking tour guide

Languages

8 Day Imperial Cities Tour from Marrakech

Discover the history, culture and royal heritage of Morocco on this unforgettable 8 Day Imperial Cities Tour from Marrakech.

This private Morocco tour takes you from the vibrant Red City of Marrakech through the country’s four historic Imperial Cities: Marrakech, Fez, Meknes and Rabat, while also visiting the fascinating economic capital of Casablanca and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.

Morocco’s Imperial Cities represent different chapters of the country’s rich history. On this journey, you will experience the colorful souks and palaces of Marrakech, the extraordinary medieval Medina of Fez, the monumental gates and royal heritage of Meknes, and the historic landmarks of Rabat.

The itinerary also includes Volubilis, where you can discover remarkably preserved Roman archaeological remains, and Casablanca, home to the spectacular Hassan II Mosque overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Starting in Marrakech and finishing in Casablanca, this 8 day Imperial Cities Morocco tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want to discover Morocco’s major cultural and historical destinations without spending several days traveling to the Sahara Desert.

It is ideal for couples, families, friends, private groups and first-time visitors to Morocco.

Tour Highlights

Explore Marrakech, the famous Red City.
Discover Marrakech’s historic Medina.
Visit Bahia Palace.
Explore traditional Marrakech souks.
Experience Jemaa el-Fna Square.
Discover the ancient Medina of Fez.
See traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.
Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis.
Explore Meknes, one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities.
See the monumental Bab Mansour.
Discover Rabat, Morocco’s capital.
Visit Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum.
Explore Casablanca.
Visit the Hassan II Mosque.
Private air-conditioned transportation.
Optional local guides.
Comfortable hotels or riads.
Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine.

Included

Transport with driver.

Tax & Air-condition.

Guide or professionnel driver.

Local guide & monument entrance fee.

Tourist Tax & parking fee.

Lodging in hotel or riad in BB.

Excluded

Drinks.

Tip.

Lunches and Dinner.

What to Bring

Comfortable Walking Shoes

The historic medinas and souks of Marrakech, Fez, Meknes and Rabat involve considerable walking.

Lightweight Clothing

Bring comfortable, breathable clothes for sightseeing.

Light Jacket or Sweater

Temperatures can vary between cities and can become cooler in the evening.

Sun Protection

Bring:

Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Hat or cap
Light scarf

Small Backpack

Useful for carrying water, your phone, camera and personal belongings.

Reusable Water Bottle

Recommended for sightseeing and long travel days.

Camera or Smartphone

You will have plenty of photography opportunities in Marrakech, Fez, Meknes, Rabat and Volubilis.

Personal Medication

Bring any regular medication and personal toiletries.

Moroccan Dirhams

Cash is useful for markets, cafés, souvenirs, small shops and tips.

Power Bank

Useful during full sightseeing days.

1. What to Know Before You Go

This Is an Imperial Cities Tour

The main focus is Moroccan history, culture, architecture and cities.

The Sahara Desert is not included in this itinerary.

Expect Some Long Driving Days

The routes between Marrakech, Rabat, Meknes, Fez and Marrakech involve several hours of travel.

We include scenic stops and breaks where appropriate.

Walking Is Required

The historic medinas are mostly pedestrian areas.

Expect narrow streets, steps and uneven surfaces.

Local Guides Are Recommended

A professional local guide can be arranged in Marrakech, Fez, Meknes and Rabat to provide historical and cultural explanations.

Different Weather Conditions

Marrakech can be warm, while the Middle Atlas can be cooler, particularly during winter.

Pack clothing in layers.

Shopping Is Optional

You can explore Morocco’s famous souks, but there is no compulsory shopping.

Respect Local Customs

Comfortable and respectful clothing is recommended, especially when visiting religious and historical monuments.

Food and Dietary Requirements

Moroccan cuisine is an important part of the experience.

Try:

Tagine
Couscous
Pastilla
Moroccan salads
Harira
Fresh bread
Mint tea

Please inform us in advance about allergies or dietary restrictions.

2. Why Book This Imperial Cities Tour?

Visit Morocco’s Four Imperial Cities

Experience Marrakech, Fez, Meknes and Rabat in one carefully designed itinerary.

Discover Marrakech

Explore its palaces, mosques, souks and legendary Jemaa el-Fna Square.

Experience Fez

Discover the ancient Medina and traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.

Explore Meknes

See the monumental gates and royal heritage of one of Morocco’s historic Imperial Cities.

Visit Volubilis

Discover ancient Roman ruins and beautiful archaeological remains.

Discover Rabat

Explore Morocco’s capital and its historic monuments, including Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Udayas.

Experience Casablanca

See the impressive Hassan II Mosque and discover Morocco’s modern economic center.

Private and Flexible

Enjoy private transportation and an itinerary that can be adapted to your interests.

Ideal for First-Time Visitors

This tour provides an excellent introduction to Morocco’s history and culture without requiring a long desert excursion.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long is the Imperial Cities Tour from Marrakech?

The tour lasts 8 days and 7 nights.

2. Where does the tour start?

The tour starts in Marrakech.

3. Where does the tour finish?

The standard itinerary finishes in Marrakech.

4. Can I finish in Casablanca?

Yes. We can modify the final day and arrange a transfer to Casablanca Airport or another location.

5. Which Imperial Cities are included?

The itinerary includes:

Marrakech
Rabat
Meknes
Fez

6. Is Casablanca included?

Yes. Casablanca is visited on Day 3.

7. Is Volubilis included?

Yes. Volubilis is visited between Meknes and Fez.

8. Is the Sahara Desert included?

No. This itinerary focuses on the Imperial Cities.

9. Can I add the Sahara?

Yes. We recommend extending the tour by several days to include Merzouga and the Sahara Desert.

10. Is this a private tour?

Yes. The itinerary can be arranged as a private tour.

11. Is transportation included?

Yes. Private air-conditioned transportation can be included.

12. Are local guides included?

Local guides can be arranged according to your selected package.

13. Is accommodation included?

Yes. Hotels or traditional riads can be arranged according to your preferred category.

14. Is breakfast included?

Breakfast can be included depending on your accommodation package.

15. Are entrance fees included?

Entrance fees depend on the selected package and will be clearly specified in your quotation.

16. Is lunch included?

Lunch is normally flexible and can be arranged according to your preferences.

17. Is the tour suitable for families?

Yes. The itinerary can be adapted for families with children.

18. Is it suitable for seniors?

Yes, although there is considerable walking in the historic medinas. Please inform us of any mobility requirements.

19. Can I add Chefchaouen?

Yes. Chefchaouen can be added by extending or modifying the itinerary.

20. Can I add Essaouira?

Yes. Essaouira can be added if you extend the itinerary.

21. Can I spend an additional night in Fez?

Yes. Additional nights can be arranged.

22. Can I spend more time in Marrakech?

Yes. The itinerary is flexible.

23. Is shopping compulsory?

No. Shopping is completely optional.

24. Can the tour start from Marrakech Airport?

Yes.

25. Can the tour start from my Marrakech hotel?

Yes. Private pickup can be arranged.

26. Can I book this tour for a large group?

Yes. We can organize suitable vehicles, accommodation and guides for groups of different sizes.

27. What is the best time for this tour?

Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, although the Imperial Cities can be visited year-round.

28. How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking early, particularly during high season, holidays and for larger groups.

4. Book Your 8-Day Imperial Cities Tour from Marrakech

Ready to discover the Imperial Cities of Morocco?

Our 8-Day Imperial Cities Tour from Marrakech takes you through the country’s most important historic and cultural destinations.

From the vibrant streets of Marrakech, travel to Casablanca and Rabat, continue to the Imperial City of Meknes, explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, and discover the extraordinary Medina of Fez before returning to Marrakech.

Your Moroccan adventure can include:

Marrakech
Marrakech Medina
Bahia Palace
Jemaa el-Fna Square
Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque
Rabat
Hassan Tower
Volubilis
Meknes
Fez
Traditional souks
Moroccan handicrafts
Private transportation
Hotels or riads
Optional local guides
Moroccan culinary experiences

Perfect For

Couples • Families • Friends • Private Groups • First-Time Visitors • History Lovers • Culture Lovers • Photography Enthusiasts

Plan Your Imperial Cities Adventure

Send us your travel dates, number of travelers, preferred accommodation category and any special requirements, and Face Tours can prepare a personalized itinerary and quotation.

Book your 8-Day Imperial Cities Tour from Marrakech and discover Morocco’s royal cities, ancient ruins, historic medinas and cultural treasures.

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Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Your journey through Morocco’s imperial legacy begins in the vibrant city of Marrakech, known for its bustling souks, exotic palaces, and lively streets. Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you will be greeted by your private driver and transferred to your hotel or riad. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a leisurely walk through the old medina, sip mint tea at a rooftop café overlooking the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, or relax at your accommodation in preparation for the exciting days ahead. Marrakech offers a thrilling blend of tradition and modern energy, setting the perfect tone for your Moroccan adventure.

Day 2: Marrakech - Casablanca

After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Casablanca, Morocco’s commercial capital and a modern city with deep colonial roots. Upon arrival, you will explore the city’s top highlight—the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most stunning mosques in the world, dramatically positioned over the Atlantic Ocean. The tour continues with a panoramic overview of Casablanca, passing the elegant Anfa district, Mohammed V Square, and the lively Corniche. You’ll also see the Royal Palace and modern administrative areas, offering insight into the city’s cosmopolitan character. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay in Casablanca.

Day 3: Casablanca - Rabat

Today, you’ll leave the energy of Casablanca behind and head to the nearby coastal capital of Rabat, a refined and historical city where modern governance meets centuries-old architecture. Begin your visit with the impressive Hassan Tower, an unfinished 12th-century minaret standing tall beside the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of white marble and green-tiled roofing that houses the tombs of Moroccan royalty. Then, stroll through the Kasbah of the Udayas, a picturesque fortress overlooking the Bou Regreg River, filled with Andalusian gardens and narrow alleys. Rabat offers a more relaxed pace and a blend of regal elegance and cultural depth. Overnight stay in Rabat.

Day 4: Rabat - Fez

Leave the Atlantic coast and travel inland toward Fez, one of Morocco’s oldest and most deeply spiritual cities. En route, pass by the agricultural heartlands of the country and catch glimpses of small villages and olive groves. Upon arriving in Fez, settle into your hotel or riad in the medina or new town. Spend your evening exploring the nearby Fez El Jdid district or enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner. This is a moment of calm before diving deep into Fez’s rich and labyrinthine history the following day.

Day 5: Full Day Exploring Fez city tour

Today is dedicated to a full exploration of Fez, Morocco’s cultural and intellectual capital. With the guidance of a local expert, you’ll dive into Fez el-Bali, the ancient walled medina and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, considered the oldest in the world, and admire the intricate details of the Bou Inania Madrasa. Wander through the colorful tanneries of Chouara, watch artisans at work in traditional crafts, and explore spiritual sites like the Zaouia of Moulay Idriss II. The medina’s winding alleys, historic caravanserais, spice markets, and hidden courtyards paint a vivid picture of life in medieval Morocco. Overnight in Fez.

Day 6: Fez - Bin El Ouidane

This morning, leave behind the dense medina of Fez and head toward the natural tranquility of Bin El Ouidane, a hidden gem nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains. Along the way, pass through Azrou’s cedar forests, where you might spot Barbary macaques, and cross the fertile plains of Beni Mellal. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes—from rocky hills to lush farmland—before reaching the serene lakeside town of Bin El Ouidane. Known for its peaceful ambiance and stunning views, it’s the perfect setting to unwind after days of city exploration. Dinner and overnight by the lake.

Day 7: Bin El Ouidane - Marrakech

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Bin El Ouidane, perhaps with a walk along the lake or a short boat ride, before beginning the drive back to Marrakech. The route passes through small Berber villages, showcasing rural Moroccan life and scenic views of the High Atlas foothills. Upon arrival in Marrakech, you’ll have free time to revisit your favorite spots in the medina, shop for souvenirs in the souks, or indulge in a traditional hammam spa experience. End your day with a farewell dinner and an overnight stay in this colorful imperial city.

Day 8: Departure From Marrakech

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some last-minute shopping or a final walk through the medina. Your private driver will transfer you to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure. As you leave Morocco, you’ll carry with you lasting memories of imperial cities, historic landmarks, cultural treasures, and the warm hospitality that makes this country so enchanting.

8 Day Imperial Cities Tour from Marrakech | Explore Fez and Rabat