10 Days in Morocco: The Medinas of Marrakech and Fez

Marrakech, Morocco; Fez, Morocco — trip snapshot
Acp (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Marrakech· 5dFez· 5d
Customize this tripFree
Length
10 days
Cities
2
Trip cost
USD 1,601
Pace
Comfortable
Stops
34
Highlights

Koutoubia Mosque · Bahia Palace · Djemaa El-Fna · Chouara Tannery · Bou Inania Madrasa · Borj Nord

Back to Itineraries
10-day Morocco itinerary map: Koutoubia Mosque, Ensemble Artisanal Marrakech, El Badi Palace

10-day Morocco trip — Marrakech to Fez. Day-by-day route, attractions and food.

Marrakech and Fez offer an intensity of craft and history that coastal towns lack. Choosing this route over a Tangier and Chefchaouen split ensures you experience the heart of Moroccan artisan culture, from the tannery odors of Fez to the central palaces of Marrakech. This plan suits those seeking architectural density and complex urban history over beachside relaxation.

Marrakech

Bahia Palace

Bahia Palace

Day 1 · Historic Palaces and Monuments

Djemaa El-Fna

Djemaa El-Fna

Day 1 · Marketplaces and Souks

Koutoubia Mosque

Koutoubia Mosque

Day 1 · Cultural Heritage Sites

Jardin Majorelle

Jardin Majorelle

Day 3 · Gardens and Nature

Menara Gardens

Menara Gardens

Day 5 · Traditional Moroccan Gardens

Heritage Spa

Day 2 · A Traditional Hammam and Spa Ritual

Pick travel dates to see the weather for your month.

Marrakech and Fez share a pattern of sun-drenched days that turn blisteringly hot in the height of summer. Spring and autumn provide the most balanced weather, though you should always pack a warm layer for the surprisingly chilly nights.

Best time to go: Spring and autumn

Best: Apr, May, Oct, NovShoulder: Mar, SepQuieter: Jan, Feb, Jun, DecHardest: Jul, Aug
The whole year

Marrakech

Average weather in Marrakech by month
MonthHighLowRainy daysSunrise – sunset
Jan65°F / 18°C43°F / 6°C (cold)48:32 AM – 6:50 PM
Feb69°F / 21°C46°F / 8°C (cold)47:14 AM – 6:18 PM
Mar73°F / 23°C51°F / 11°C66:42 AM – 6:39 PM
Apr79°F / 26°C56°F / 14°C37:03 AM – 8:00 PM
May86°F / 30°C (hot)62°F / 17°C26:35 AM – 8:21 PM
Jun90°F / 32°C (hot)67°F / 19°C16:26 AM – 8:38 PM
Jul98°F / 37°C (hot)73°F / 23°C06:37 AM – 8:38 PM
Aug98°F / 36°C (hot)74°F / 23°C16:57 AM – 8:15 PM
Sep90°F / 32°C (hot)68°F / 20°C27:16 AM – 7:37 PM
Oct85°F / 29°C62°F / 17°C26:35 AM – 5:59 PM
Nov73°F / 23°C52°F / 11°C47:00 AM – 5:32 PM
Dec68°F / 20°C46°F / 8°C (cold)47:24 AM – 5:29 PM

Fez

Average weather in Fez by month
MonthHighLowRainy daysSunrise – sunset
Jan62°F / 17°C41°F / 5°C (cold)78:25 AM – 6:33 PM
Feb65°F / 18°C44°F / 6°C (cold)67:05 AM – 6:03 PM
Mar69°F / 20°C47°F / 8°C (cold)106:30 AM – 6:27 PM
Apr75°F / 24°C53°F / 12°C86:49 AM – 7:51 PM
May85°F / 30°C (hot)59°F / 15°C46:18 AM – 8:14 PM
Jun91°F / 33°C (hot)63°F / 17°C26:08 AM – 8:32 PM
Jul99°F / 37°C (hot)69°F / 20°C06:19 AM – 8:31 PM
Aug98°F / 37°C (hot)70°F / 21°C16:41 AM – 8:06 PM
Sep90°F / 32°C (hot)64°F / 18°C37:03 AM – 7:26 PM
Oct83°F / 28°C59°F / 15°C46:25 AM – 5:45 PM
Nov70°F / 21°C49°F / 9°C66:52 AM – 5:16 PM
Dec65°F / 18°C44°F / 7°C (cold)67:18 AM – 5:11 PM
|
Open Full Route in Maps
Note
Arrival day — activities start after landing, customs, and hotel check-in. The schedule is lighter to account for travel fatigue.
Highlight of the Day
Bahia Palace and the bustling Djemaa El-Fna
  1. Morning

    8:00 AM - Arrive at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK)· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)

    Arrive at RAK. Take a Petit Taxi to your riad in the Medina (approx. 20 min, $15) or a pre-arranged transfer for ease.

  2. Afternoon

    12:30 PM - Lunch: Tanjia Marrakchia in Medina· 1 hr

    USD 12 (~MAD 115)
    Tanjia Marrakchia
    Adam Harangozó (CC BY-SA 4.0)
    Try the dish
    Tanjia Marrakchia

    Taste this authentic lamb dish slow-cooked in a clay urn, served in the heart of the Medina.

  3. 1A

    1:30 PM - Koutoubia Mosque· 1 hr

    FREE
  4. 1B

    3:00 PM - Bahia Palace· 2 hrs

    USD 10 (~MAD 95)
    Closes 5 PM · 2h here
  5. Evening
    1C

    6:00 PM - Djemaa El-Fna· 2 hrs

    FREE
  6. 8:00 PM - Dinner: Pastilla in Medina· 1 hr

    USD 12 (~MAD 115)
    Pastilla
    kochtopf (CC BY-SA 2.0)
    Iconic dish

    Enjoy a traditional savory-sweet chicken pie, a hallmark of Moroccan festive cooking.

    Often found around Fes el-Bali

    Typical USD 5-12 (~MAD 48-115)

🏨

Where to Stay Tonight

Medina
· Staying in the old city puts you within walking distance of the historic monuments and authentic souks.
Note
Expect a long walking day through the narrow Medina lanes. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes.
Highlight of the Day
Ben Youssef Madrasa and Souk Semmarine
  1. Morning
    2A

    9:30 AM - Ensemble Artisanal Marrakech· 1 hr 30 min

    FREE
  2. 2B

    11:15 AM - Ben Youssef Madrasa· 2 hrs

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
  3. Afternoon

    1:15 PM - Lunch: Zaalouk in Medina· 1 hr

    USD 8 (~MAD 76)
    Zaalouk
    Tamorlan (CC BY-SA 3.0)
    Iconic dish

    Eat a fresh bowl of smokey roasted eggplant and tomato salad in a rooftop cafe overlooking the bustling alleys.

    Typical USD 2-5 (~MAD 19-48)

  4. 2C

    2:30 PM - House of Photography in Marrakech· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
  5. 2D

    4:15 PM - Souk Semmarine· 1 hr 30 min

    FREE
  6. Evening
    2E

    5:45 PM - Heritage Spa· 2 hrs 30 min

    USD 50 (~MAD 477)
    Closes 8 PM · 2.2h hereCloses before activity ends (verified)
  7. 8:15 PM - Dinner: Harira Soup in Medina· 1 hr

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Harira Soup
    -ani (FAL)
    Iconic dish

    Settle in for a warm, fragrant bowl of lentil and tomato soup to finish the day.

    Typical USD 1-3 (~MAD 10-29)

Staying at Medina since Day 1

Highlight of the Day
El Badi Palace and Jardin Majorelle
  1. Morning
    3A

    9:00 AM - El Badi Palace· 2 hrs

    USD 10 (~MAD 95)
  2. 3B

    11:30 AM - Saadian Tombs· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 7 (~MAD 67)
  3. Afternoon

    1:00 PM - Lunch: Mechoui in Mechoui Alley· 1 hr

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)
    Mechoui
    Grey Geezer (Public domain)
    Try the dish

    Enjoy traditional slow-roasted lamb from the pits near the square, a true local institution.

    Often found around Mechoui Alley

    Typical USD 8-18 (~MAD 76-172)

  4. 3C

    2:30 PM - Le Jardin Secret· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 8 (~MAD 76)
  5. 3D

    4:30 PM - Jardin Majorelle· 2 hrs

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)
    Closes 6:30 PM · 2h here
  6. Evening

    7:30 PM - Dinner: Tanjia Marrakchia in Medina· 1 hr

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)
    Tanjia Marrakchia
    Adam Harangozó (CC BY-SA 4.0)
    Try the dish
    Tanjia Marrakchia

    Savor the slow-cooked lamb specialty prepared in a clay urn, reflecting the local culinary tradition.

Staying at Medina since Day 1

Note
Ballooning requires a very early start for transport out to the launch site. Be ready at your hotel by 5:30 AM.
Highlight of the Day
Marrakech By Air and Souk des Epices
  1. Morning
    4A

    9:00 AM - Souk des Epices· 1 hr 30 min

    FREE
  2. 4B

    11:00 AM - Dar Si Said Museum· 2 hrs

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
  3. Afternoon

    1:00 PM - Lunch: Maakouda in Medina· 1 hr

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Try the dish

    Grab a crispy potato fritter sandwich from a street vendor in the heart of the bustling medina.

    Typical USD 1-2 (~MAD 10-19)

  4. 4C

    2:30 PM - Marrakech By Air· 3 hrs

    USD 180 (~MAD 1,719)
  5. Evening

    7:30 PM - Dinner: Tanjiya in Medina· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)
    Tanjiya
    Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels
    Iconic dish

    Savor slow-cooked lamb prepared in the embers of a traditional furnace, a local favorite served on a rooftop.

    Often found around Medina

    Typical USD 7-15 (~MAD 67-143)

Staying at Medina since Day 1

Highlight of the Day
Exploring the historic Menara Gardens and the traditional Saharan collection at Musee Tiskiwin.
  1. Morning
    5A

    9:30 AM - Menara Gardens· 2 hrs

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Menara Gardens
    Bernard Gagnon (CC BY-SA 3.0)

    Stroll through this historic garden featuring a large reflecting pool and a 16th-century pavilion set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains.

  2. Afternoon

    12:30 PM - Lunch: M'semen in Medina· 1 hr

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    M'semen
    Popo le Chien (CC0)
    Iconic dish

    Stop at a street-side stall for fresh, flaky pan-fried bread filled with herbs or minced meat. A classic light lunch while navigating the winding alleys.

    Typical USD 1-2 (~MAD 10-19)

  3. 5B

    2:00 PM - Almoravid Koubba· 2 hrs

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Overlaps the next activity — check the time
    Almoravid Koubba
    Oumaima Loudini (CC BY 4.0)

    Explore the oldest surviving structure in Marrakech, known for its unique Almoravid architectural design and intricate decorative dome interior.

  4. 5C

    2:00 PM - Madrasa Ben Youssef· 2 hrs

    USD 6 (~MAD 57)
  5. 5D

    4:30 PM - Musee Tiskiwin· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 7 (~MAD 67)

    Visit this stunning museum housed in an old riad, showcasing a beautiful collection of traditional Saharan crafts and decorative arts.

  6. Evening

    7:30 PM - Dinner: Moroccan Mint Tea (Atay) in Medina· 1 hr

    USD 4 (~MAD 38)
    Moroccan Mint Tea (Atay)
    CC BY-SA 3.0
    Iconic dish

    End the day by enjoying the ritual of pouring tea from a height. Paired with savory local flatbreads, this is the authentic way to wrap up a day in the Medina.

    Typical USD 1-2 (~MAD 10-19)

Staying at Medina since Day 1

Note
Long travel day: 7h train journey. Ensure you have snacks and water for the ride.
Highlight of the Day
Menara Gardens and authentic Moroccan cuisine in the Fez medina.
  1. Morning
    6A

    8:30 AM - Menara Gardens· 1 hr

    FREE
    Already scheduled earlier in this trip

    Visit these historic gardens with their iconic basin and pavilion before departing Marrakech.

  2. 9:30 AM - Transfer to Fez by Train· 7 hrs

    USD 35 (~MAD 334)
    Overlaps the next activity — check the time

    Travel across Morocco by train to the ancient city of Fez. Approximately 7 hours.

  3. Afternoon

    12:00 PM - Lunch: Ma'qouda in Place Seffarine· 1 hr

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Ma'qouda
    Photo by Max Griss on Unsplash
    Try the dish

    Grab these crispy potato cakes from a street vendor in the bustling market area.

    Often found around Place Seffarine

    Typical USD 1-2 (~MAD 10-19)

  4. Evening

    7:30 PM - Dinner: Pastilla in Fes el Bali· 1 hr

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)
    Pastilla
    kochtopf (CC BY-SA 2.0)
    Iconic dish

    Enjoy this savory-sweet traditional pie in the heart of the historic medina.

    Often found around Fes el-Bali

    Typical USD 5-12 (~MAD 48-115)

🏨

Where to Stay Tonight

Fes el Bali
· Staying inside the medina places you steps away from historic sites and the authentic atmosphere of the old city.
Highlight of the Day
Chouara Tannery and the architecture of Bou Inania Madrasa
  1. Morning
    7A

    9:30 AM - Chouara Tannery· 2 hrs

    USD 2 (~MAD 19)
  2. Afternoon

    12:00 PM - Lunch: Couscous with Seven Vegetables in Fes el Bali· 1 hr

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)
    Couscous with Seven Vegetables
    Lmmima (CC BY-SA 4.0)
    Try the dish
    Couscous with Seven Vegetables

    Enjoy a traditional Friday-style couscous served with tender vegetables and a rich broth.

  3. 7B

    1:30 PM - Bou Inania Madrasa· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Closes 5 PM · 3.5h here
  4. 7C

    3:00 PM - Borj Nord· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Closes 5 PM · 2h hereClosed on MondayDoubles back across the city — check the order
  5. Evening
    7D

    5:00 PM - Place Seffarine· 1 hr

    FREE
    Closes 8 PM · 3h here
  6. 7:30 PM - Dinner: Pastilla in Fes el Bali· 1 hr

    USD 18 (~MAD 172)
    Pastilla
    kochtopf (CC BY-SA 2.0)
    Iconic dish

    Dine on the signature sweet and savory pie of Fez, filled with spiced meat and topped with almonds.

    Often found around Fes el-Bali

    Typical USD 5-12 (~MAD 48-115)

Staying at Fes el Bali since Day 6

Highlight of the Day
Merenid Tombs and Fes el Bali
  1. Morning
    8A

    9:00 AM - Cherratine Madrasa· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
  2. 8B

    10:30 AM - Fes el Bali· 2 hrs

    FREE
  3. Afternoon

    12:30 PM - Lunch: Chebakia in Fes el Bali· 1 hr

    USD 8 (~MAD 76)
    Chebakia
    Opsylac (CC BY-SA 4.0)
    Try the dish
    Chebakia

    Enjoy a honey-coated fried pastry and local tea in the bustling market.

  4. 8C

    1:30 PM - Merenid Tombs· 1 hr

    FREE
  5. 8D

    2:30 PM - Dar Batha Museum· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Closes 6 PM · 3.5h hereClosed on Tuesday
  6. Evening

    7:30 PM - Dinner: Zaalouk in Fes el Bali· 1 hr

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)
    Zaalouk
    Tamorlan (CC BY-SA 3.0)
    Iconic dish

    Savor the spiced eggplant and tomato dip served as a traditional starter in a local eatery.

    Typical USD 2-5 (~MAD 19-48)

Staying at Fes el Bali since Day 6

Note
The forest zipline involves significant physical exertion and a short taxi ride outside the Medina walls.
Highlight of the Day
Al-Attarine Madrasa and the zipline adventure near Fez
  1. Morning
    9A

    10:00 AM - Al-Attarine Madrasa· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
  2. Afternoon

    12:00 PM - Lunch: Couscous with Seven Vegetables in Fes el Bali· 1 hr

    USD 15 (~MAD 143)
    Couscous with Seven Vegetables
    Lmmima (CC BY-SA 4.0)
    Try the dish
    Couscous with Seven Vegetables

    Enjoy a traditional Friday-style couscous loaded with seasonal vegetables and tender lamb at a quiet rooftop spot.

  3. 9B

    1:30 PM - Ibn Danan Synagogue· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
    Doubles back across the city — check the order
  4. 9C

    3:30 PM - Glaoui Palace· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 10 (~MAD 95)
    Closes 7 PM · 3.5h here
  5. Evening

    5:30 PM - Zipline Adventure in Fes Forest· 2 hrs

    USD 30 (~MAD 286)

    Experience the rugged outskirts of Fez with a guided canopy course, providing a high-adrenaline shift from the dense old city streets.

  6. 8:00 PM - Dinner: Mint Tea in Fes el Bali· 1 hr

    USD 1 (~MAD 10)
    Mint Tea
    Onderwijsgek (CC BY-SA 3.0)
    Iconic dish

    End the day with the ritual of pouring sweetened green tea with fresh mint from a height as local tradition dictates.

    Typical USD 1-2 (~MAD 10-19)

Staying at Fes el Bali since Day 6

Note
Ensure you leave the Medina by 3:30 PM to reach the airport with ample time for international check-in procedures.
Highlight of the Day
Al-Qarawiyyin Library and Bab Bou Jeloud
  1. Morning
    10A

    9:00 AM - Al-Qarawiyyin Library· 2 hrs

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
  2. 10B

    11:30 AM - Funduq al-Najjarin· 1 hr 30 min

    USD 5 (~MAD 48)
  3. Afternoon

    1:00 PM - Lunch: Harira Soup in Fes el Bali· 1 hr

    USD 10 (~MAD 95)
    Harira Soup
    -ani (FAL)
    Iconic dish

    Enjoy a comforting bowl of traditional lentil and tomato soup.

    Typical USD 1-3 (~MAD 10-29)

  4. 10C

    2:30 PM - Bab Bou Jeloud· 1 hr

    FREE
  5. 3:30 PM - Hotel Checkout & Luggage Collection· 30 min

    FREE

    Return to the hotel to finish packing and gather all belongings for the journey home.

  6. 4:00 PM - Depart from Saiss Airport (FEZ)· 1 hr

    USD 30 (~MAD 286)

    Final transfer to the airport for your international flight home.

Staying at Fes el Bali since Day 6

Like this plan? Make it yours

Same destination, your dates, group, and pace. Generated free in about a minute.

Customize this tripFree

Food, shopping & festivals

Top 10 dishes to try

Tap any photo for more photos, the story, and where to find it.

Marrakech

Moroccan Mint Tea (Atay)

Moroccan Mint Tea (Atay)

Day 5 · dinner

Zaalouk
4

Zaalouk

Days 2 and 8

Pastilla
3

Pastilla

Days 1, 6, and 7

Tanjiya
3

Tanjiya

Day 4 · dinner

Maakouda

Maakouda

Day 4 · lunch

Mechoui

Mechoui

Day 3 · lunch

Where to eat · Fes el-Bali, Gueliz, Medina, Place Seffarine
  • Fes el-Bali · Fez — Dense labyrinthine alleys filled with local street food, tajine stalls, and traditional pastry shops.
  • Gueliz · Marrakech — Modern cafes and restaurants offering a mix of French-Moroccan fusion and local fare.
  • Medina · Marrakech — Traditional tagine shops and hidden street stalls selling authentic tanjiya.
  • Place Seffarine · Fez — Street snacks like Ma'qouda and busy tea houses near the metalworkers.
Good to know · meal times, tipping, water, vegetarian, payment, etiquette
Meal times
Breakfast is early, usually around 8am. Lunch peaks at 1pm. Dinner starts late, often after 8pm, though many medina stalls serve throughout the day.
Tipping
Tipping is expected in cafes and restaurants. Round up the bill or leave 10 percent for good service. Keep small change for this purpose.
Water
Drink bottled water only. Even in hotels, tap water can be unreliable for sensitive stomachs. Avoid ice in roadside fruit juices.
Vegetarian
Vegetarians will find many options like zaalouk and vegetable tagines. Ask for dishes without meat broth if you are strictly plant-based.
Payment
Cash is king in the medina. Small shopkeepers and street food vendors will not accept cards. Keep small denominations of dirham on hand.
Etiquette
Eat with your right hand as the left is traditionally considered unclean. Always wash your hands before communal meals and avoid rushing through tea.

Top 9 souvenirs

Tap any photo for more photos, the story, and where to find it.

Marrakech

Ras el Hanout Spice Blend
Market

Ras el Hanout Spice Blend

Leather Babouche Slippers
Market

Leather Babouche Slippers

Hand-Painted Zellige Ceramic Tajine
Market

Hand-Painted Zellige Ceramic Tajine

Market

Berber Hand-Knotted Wool Rug

Look for the dense, undyed wool patterns unique to the High Atlas regions.

Fez

Argan Oil

Argan Oil

Fez Pottery
Artisan
3

Fez Pottery

Where to shop · Medina Souks, Fes el-Bali, Gueliz
  • Medina Souks · Marrakech — Leather, metalwork, textiles, spices.
  • Fes el-Bali · Fez — Leather, pottery, metalwork, spices.
  • Gueliz · Marrakech — Modern Moroccan fashion and home boutiques.
Good to know · customs, tax refund, payment, bargaining
Customs
Most goods are duty-free, but check home-country limits on alcohol or plant-based items. Keep receipts for high-value antiques to prove they are exportable.
Tax refund
VAT refunds are not standard for small souvenir purchases. Ask for a tax-free form only at larger boutiques if spending over 2000 dirhams.
Payment
Carry small-denomination cash in dirhams for markets, as cards are rarely accepted.
Bargaining
Bargaining is expected in the souks; start at 40-50% of the initial price and walk away if the price is too high. Fixed-price boutiques in Gueliz do not negotiate.

The big events across the year

Tap any photo for more photos and the story.

Ramadan in Morocco
2

Ramadan in Morocco

Feb 17 – Mar 18

Eid al-Adha
3

Eid al-Adha

May 26 – 29

Fes Festival of World Sacred Music

Fes Festival of World Sacred Music

Jun 5 – 12

Gnaoua World Music Festival

Gnaoua World Music Festival

Jun 25 – 28

Marrakech International Film Festival
2

Marrakech International Film Festival

Nov 27 – Dec 5

Costs

Estimated total · For 2 travelers · 1 room · 10 days

USD 1,601

Flights from your city not included.

Getting there and betweenUSD 50
  • Marrakech → Fez · trainUSD 50
AccommodationUSD 270
  • Marrakech · 5 nights1 roomUSD 150
  • Fez · 4 nights1 roomUSD 120
Per room, per night. The total uses Comfortable.
CitySimpleComfortableUpscale
MarrakechUSD 15USD 30USD 45
FezUSD 15USD 30USD 45
ActivitiesUSD 821
  • Day 1 · Arrive at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK)USD 30
  • Day 1 · Bahia PalaceUSD 14
  • Day 2 · Ben Youssef MadrasaUSD 10
  • Day 2 · House of Photography in MarrakechUSD 17
  • Day 2 · Heritage SpaUSD 100
  • Day 3 · El Badi PalaceUSD 21
  • Day 3 · Saadian TombsUSD 16
  • Day 3 · Le Jardin SecretUSD 21
  • Day 3 · Jardin MajorelleUSD 30
  • Day 4 · Dar Si Said MuseumUSD 10
  • Day 4 · Marrakech By AirUSD 360
  • Day 5 · Menara GardensUSD 10
  • Day 5 · Almoravid KoubbaUSD 10
  • Day 5 · Madrasa Ben YoussefUSD 10
  • Day 5 · Musee TiskiwinUSD 14
  • Day 7 · Chouara TanneryUSD 4
  • Day 7 · Bou Inania MadrasaUSD 10
  • Day 7 · Borj NordUSD 10
  • Day 8 · Cherratine MadrasaUSD 10
  • Day 8 · Dar Batha MuseumUSD 10
  • Day 9 · Al-Attarine MadrasaUSD 4
  • Day 9 · Ibn Danan SynagogueUSD 10
  • Day 9 · Glaoui PalaceUSD 20
  • Day 9 · Zipline Adventure in Fes ForestUSD 60
  • Day 10 · Funduq al-NajjarinUSD 10
FoodUSD 380
  • Marrakech · 5 daysUSD 190
  • Fez · 5 daysUSD 190
Local transportUSD 80
  • Marrakech · 5 daysUSD 40
  • Fez · 5 daysUSD 40

Not included: visas, travel insurance, SIM cards, tips, shopping.

How we estimate costs

Money tips

  • Moderate cost: Expect to pay $50-60 for a boutique riad and $8-15 for a solid dinner. Always drink bottled water and avoid unpeeled fruit to stay safe.

  • Book your train between Marrakech and Fez at least 48 hours early via the ONCF website to secure second-class tickets for roughly $20.

  • Spend $40 on a private hammam session at a reputable place like Hammam Mouassine in Marrakech, which offers an authentic, centuries-old steam experience.

  • Negotiate taxi fares before entering, or use the Careem app to avoid the 20-30% price markup often applied to tourists in Marrakech.

  • Buy a local Maroc Telecom SIM card for $5 at the airport or medina kiosks; it provides 10GB of data, far cheaper than international roaming fees.

Before you go

Travel and stays

  • Flight into Menara Airport (RAK)

    Day 1

  • Hotel in Marrakech

    Nights 1–5 · Medina · about USD 150 · Comfortable hotel range

  • Train from Marrakech to Fez

    Day 6 · Book 7 days ahead · about USD 50 · Purchase your First Class train tickets online via the ONCF website.

  • Hotel in Fez

    Nights 6–9 · Fes el Bali · about USD 120 · Comfortable hotel range

  • Flight out of Saïss Airport (FEZ)

    Day 10

Book ahead · most urgent first

  • Marrakech By Air hot air balloon flight

    Day 4 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Sunrise flights are highly popular and weather dependent; booking early ensures your preferred date and pickup arrangements.

  • Private guided tour of Fes el Bali and Chouara Tannery

    Day 7 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Exploring the intricate Medina of Fes is best done with a certified local guide. Booking in advance ensures you get an official guide and avoids issues with unofficial touts.

  • Jardin Majorelle timed entry tickets

    Day 3 · Book 7 days ahead · Tickets must be purchased online for a specific time slot to avoid long queues. They sell out daily during high season.

  • Heritage Spa hammam and massage session

    Day 2 · Book 7 days ahead · Popular hammams in the Medina fill up quickly for afternoon and evening slots. Reserve online or via email to secure a spot.

Route Overview

Travel tips

  • Use the Official Petit Taxi in Rabat and Marrakech; insist on using the meter before departure or negotiate a flat rate of 10-20 dirhams for short trips.

  • Book train tickets between Fes and Rabat via the ONCF-Voyages website 48 hours early to secure a seat in first class for extra comfort.

  • Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when visiting sites like the Hassan II Mosque to avoid being turned away.

  • Download the Maps.me app with offline maps for the Fes el-Bali medina; the layout is a labyrinth where Google Maps often fails.

  • Carry small denominations of cash, specifically 5 and 10 dirham coins, for public toilets and small tips in the souks.

  • Start your day in the medinas at 8am to photograph empty alleys before the 10am tour group crowds arrive.

  • Visit the Ensemble Artisanal centers in Marrakech for fixed-price souvenirs if you want to avoid high-pressure haggling in the open souks.

  • Drink only bottled water and check the seal, costing about 6 dirhams at local corner shops.

Buy travel insurance and save the policy offline

Keep a backup card and emergency cash apart from your wallet

Get MAD cash / a no-forex-fee card

Check visa requirements for Morocco

Copies of passport and bookings (paper + phone)

Tell your bank your travel dates and check foreign transaction fees

Leave your itinerary, emergency contacts and a passport copy with someone at home

Register with your embassy's traveler program (STEP for US citizens)

Passport (valid 6+ months past your return)

Wallet with ID and payment cards

Small change for public toilets

Pen for arrival forms

Marrakech gets five days at the start to ground you in its sprawling palace gardens and market crafts before the pace shifts. The travel day on day six serves as a transition, placing you in Fez for the final five days to focus on the labyrinthine streets of the oldest medina. This order puts the most complex navigation in the second half, allowing the easier, garden-heavy sites in Marrakech to set the tone.

This plan prioritizes deep immersion into the medinas and artisan districts of Morocco's two major historic capitals. It skips the Atlas Mountains entirely, meaning you lose out on the Berber villages and the high-altitude air of the Toubkal region. It also leaves out the coastal ramparts of Essaouira and the salt-spray breeze of the Atlantic.

This is the right move for history enthusiasts; skip this and head to the coast if you require ocean views. Extend your trip by two days to include Chefchaouen. You can explore the blue-washed alleyways and the quiet mountain trails surrounding the town before heading back to the busier cities.

Interest coverage

3 of 3 covered

Entry and safety

Visa & entryUS, UK, EU, and Australian citizens enjoy 90 days visa-free entry. Indian passport holders must obtain an e-Visa through the official Moroccan portal. All passports must be valid for six months beyond your arrival date.
US risk levelExercise increased cautionUpdated Apr 20, 2025
Official adviceUS State Department · UK Foreign Office
EmergencyPolice 190 · Ambulance 150 · Fire 150 · Tourist police Brigade Touristique in major citiesGendarmerie (rural areas): 177

Money and tipping

Tipping: restaurants10% or round up
Tipping: taxisRound up to nearest MAD 5
Tipping: hotelsMAD 20–50 per bag
CardsAccepted at hotels and upscale riads
ContactlessVery limited
CashCash dominant — essential in souks and medinas
Payment tipCarry dirhams. ATMs available but may be unreliable in rural areas.

Plugs

PlugsType C, E220V · 50Hz

Staying connected

SIMPriceWhere to buy
Maroc Telecom100 dirhams for SIM plus data packagesMaroc Telecom boutique in city centers or airport
Orange MoroccoSimilar to local ratesOfficial shops in Marrakech or Rabat

Always keep your passport handy when buying a SIM card as registration is mandatory.

About USD 1,601 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 10 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.

Most Western tourists receive 90 days visa-free. Other nationalities, including Indian citizens, require an e-Visa. Verify your status on the official Moroccan consular website before travel.

Morocco is generally safe but expect frequent catcalling in busy tourist areas. Dress modestly, keep to well-lit streets after dark, and project confidence to minimize unwanted attention.

Walking is the only way inside the narrow alleys of Fes and Marrakech. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes as the ground is uneven and can be slippery.

Politely say 'la, shukran' (no, thank you) without stopping or making eye contact. Keep walking purposefully as if you know exactly where you are going.

Haggling is standard practice for carpets, leather, and lamps. Offer 50 percent of the initial price and meet somewhere in the middle.

Large hotels and modern restaurants accept cards, but the vast majority of souk vendors, cafes, and small transport operators are cash-only.

Stick to bottled water for drinking to avoid stomach issues. It is cheap and available in every corner shop throughout the cities.

The national train network (ONCF) is excellent and affordable for connecting Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech. Use buses like CTM for destinations not served by rail.

These 3 experiences didn't make it into this itinerary

A Moroccan Culinary Workshop

A Moroccan Culinary Workshop

e.g., La Maison Arabe Cooking Workshop, Amal Womens Training Center

An Atlas Mountain Adventure

An Atlas Mountain Adventure

e.g., Oukaimeden, Imlil Valley Trekking

A Rooftop Sunset Lounge

A Rooftop Sunset Lounge

e.g., El Fenn Rooftop, Nomad

Create Your Custom Version

📅 Your exact dates🗓️ Trip length👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group & kids🎯 Your interests
Customize this tripFree

Download this Marrakech, Morocco; Fez, Morocco itinerary — day-by-day plan, maps, budget, and more.

You Might Also Like

Bogotá, Colombia; Cartagena, Colombia travel itinerary

Bogotá, Colombia; Cartagena, Colombia

Colombia

10 days

This 10-day trip explores Colombia through its two major cities, starting with 5 nights in the Andean capital Bogotá to immerse in La Candelaria's history and take in Monserrate's panoramic views. A short internal flight then takes you to Cartagena for 5 nights, exploring its iconic Walled City...

USD 1,192 excl. flights
romanticfood and wine
Ljubljana, Slovenia; Split, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro travel itinerary

Ljubljana, Slovenia; Split, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro

Slovenia And Croatia And Montenegro

10 days

This 10-day journey explores three distinct Balkan cities: starting in Ljubljana, Slovenia, before heading to Split, Croatia, and concluding in Kotor, Montenegro. Experience Ljubljana Castle's views, wander through Diocletian's Palace in Split, and climb the ancient Walls of Kotor, all while...

USD 2,894 excl. flights
culturaladventure
Quito, Ecuador; Guayaquil, Ecuador travel itinerary

Quito, Ecuador; Guayaquil, Ecuador

Ecuador

10 days

This 10-day trip explores Ecuador's diverse landscapes, starting with 5 nights in Quito, featuring its historic Old Town and a day trip to the Mindo Cloud Forest for adventure and wildlife. Then, transfer by bus to Guayaquil for 5 nights, exploring the colorful Las Peñas neighborhood, the...

USD 1,235 excl. flights
culturaladventure
Honolulu, Maui, and Kailua-Kona, United States travel itinerary

Honolulu, Maui, and Kailua-Kona, United States

United States

10 days

This 10-day multi-island Hawaiian journey connects Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, offering a balanced exploration of their unique characters. Start in Honolulu, based in Waikiki, to visit historical Pearl Harbor and hike Diamond Head. Then, fly to Maui for the scenic Road to Hana and...

USD 4,881 excl. flights
adventurecultural

Prefer to plan it yourself?

Start from a free, no-signup travel itinerary template. The Excel and Google Sheets versions auto-total the budget and split costs by who paid.

Free travel itinerary template (all formats) →
Customize
Customize