Morocco: Tangier, Chefchaouen & Fes

Welcome to Tangier—the gateway between Europe and Africa. Located close to the south of Spain, visit the medina (old quarter), a café in the Zoco Chico square, or take a stroll along the promenade.

Travel to the blue-washed city of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains. Enjoy the scenic route, stopping along the way to hike to the Cascades d’Akchour.

Chefchaouen offers winding, narrow streets and picturesque buildings. Visit Plaza Uta el-Hammam for a café or restaurant.

Though non-muslims are not permitted to enter, the Grand Mosque is still worth visiting from the outside. Explore the nearby kasbah and its gardens and museum.

Follow a path outside the city walls to Hotel Atlas for a panoramic view, or continue toward the Spanish Mosque for sunset views over the city.

Rise early before leaving for Fes. Stop at the UNESCO-protected Volubilis ruins, the Roman Empire’s farthest reach in Africa. Explore merchant homes, temples, and mosaics.

Continue to Meknes, an imperial city. Visit the Ville Impériale and the medina, including Bab al-Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables.

Continue on to Fes. Before entering the medina, visit the Merenid Tombs for a panoramic view of the city, then return to your riad for the evening.

Fes is the oldest of the imperial cities in Morocco and a UNESCO protected site. The city has not undergone much colonial development, preserving its medieval character.

Fes consists of two old medinas: Fes el Bali and Fes el Jdid, along with the newer Ville Nouvelle. Begin in Fes el Bali and explore the maze-like streets.

Pass through souks offering spices, leather goods, and pewter. Visit the Chouara Tannery and observe the dyeing process from above.

Continue to Al Attarine Madrasa to admire intricate tilework, then visit Al-Qarawiyyin University. End with a visit to the Mellah for another view over the city.

If time allows before departure, visit the Batha Museum, housed in a 19th-century palace, showcasing Moroccan arts and crafts such as carved wood, zellij, and pottery.

Alternatively, visit a ceramics and tile collective to observe artisans shaping clay and assembling intricate mosaic designs.