Royal Cities of Morocco

Journey through Morocco on an adventure that blends imperial cities, ancient civilisations, traditional cuisine and beautiful landscapes. From the buzzing energy of Marrakech’s medina to the coastal calm of Rabat, from Roman ruins and vineyard-dotted hills to the timeless lanes of Fes, this tour offers an immersive exploration of Morocco’s cultural heart. Carefully paced, it combines guided insight with free time to savour the country’s distinctive rhythms and traditions. Along the way, experience Morocco through its architecture, gardens and gastronomy: dine in historic riads, learn the secrets of classic Moroccan dishes, sample wines from an unexpected estate, and walk through UNESCO‑listed cities where craftsmanship and learning have flourished for centuries.

ITINERARY

Day 1: London to Marrakech
Depart London Gatwick for Marrakech then transfer by coach to our hotel. Time to relax before gathering for an evening welcome drink and dinner at one of Marrakech’s most atmospheric restaurants. Housed in a beautifully restored 17th‑century riad in the heart of the medina, Dar Zellij is renowned for its refined Moroccan cuisine and exquisite plasterwork and zellige tile decoration.

Day 2: Marrakech - Rabat
The morning is at leisure to relax or explore independently. An optional lunch is available near the iconic Djemaa el Fna Square, where Marrakech’s daily theatre of performers, musicians and food stalls unfolds. This afternoon, travel to Rabat (approx. 3½ hours), Morocco’s elegant coastal capital. On arrival, check in to the hotel before dinner at a local restaurant. 

Day 3: Rabat
Begin the day with a visit to the Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel, created during the French Protectorate and home to a surprising variety of plant species arranged across themed landscapes. Lunch is included at a local restaurant before an afternoon exploring Rabat’s most significant historical sites. Visit the atmospheric Chellah, a medieval necropolis built over Roman remains; the Hassan Tower, an unfinished 12th‑century minaret; and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which houses the tombs of Morocco’s modern royal family. Continue to the Kasbah of the Oudaias, a white-and-blue fortified quarter overlooking the Atlantic, and stroll through its tranquil Andalusian Gardens. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure to relax or explore independently.

Day 4: Rabat - Volubilis - Meknes Wine Region - Fes 
Depart Rabat this morning for Volubilis (approx. 2.5 hours), Morocco’s most impressive Roman archaeological site. On a private guided tour, explore remarkably preserved mosaics, triumphal arches and civic buildings that speak of the region’s importance as a Roman outpost. Continue into the Meknes wine region for a visit to Château Roslane, one of Morocco’s most established estate wineries. Your visit includes a guided tour of the cellars, lunch and wine-tastings. In the afternoon, drive onwards to Fes (approx. 1.5 hours). On arrival, check in to the hotel. The evening is free.

Day 5: Fes
This morning, discover Fez on a guided walking tour, exploring the UNESCO-listed medina, one of the world’s best‑preserved medieval cities. Highlights include the exterior of Al Quaraouiyine University, widely recognised as the world’s oldest continually operating university; the Bou Inania Madrasa; and the famous Chouara Tannery, where leather is still processed using age-old methods. Enjoy free time for lunch (own expense) before an immersive afternoon at Palais Amani Riad for a hands-on Moroccan cooking class. Begin with a guided visit to the local market, followed by an introduction to spices and seasonal ingredients. Under expert guidance, prepare traditional dishes before enjoying the fruits of your labour as dinner on the riad’s panoramic terrace overlooking the medina.

Day 6: Fes - Casablanca - Marrakech
Depart Fes for Casablanca this morning (approx. 3.5 hours). Lunch is included at Rick’s Café, an elegant restaurant inspired by the classic film Casablanca. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour of Casablanca, including a visit to the interior of the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, dramatically set above the Atlantic Ocean. Continue onwards to Marrakech (approx. 3 hours), arriving in the evening to check in to the hotel. 

Day 7: Marrakech
Spend a full day exploring Marrakech with a local guide. Begin at the tranquil Jardin Majorelle, famed for its bold cobalt-blue structures and exotic plant collection, before visiting the expansive Menara Gardens, with their olive groves and reflective pool set against the Atlas Mountains. Continue into the medina to explore the elegant Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of late 19th‑century Moroccan architecture. After lunch, enjoy a hidden‑gems walking tour through lesser‑known corners of the medina. Discover historic fondouks, discreet alleyways, artisan workshops and authentic souks away from the main tourist routes. End the afternoon at the Arsat Moulay Abdeslam Cyber Park, a peaceful green space within the city walls. This evening we meet for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. 

Day 8: Departure
Morning at leisure in Marrakech before transferring to the airport for your return flight to London.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 30 travellers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to the amount of time spent walking and standing for viewing at attractions. For further information, please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team if you have any questions prior to booking. 

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Gatwick to Marrakech
• Three nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast at the Grand Plaza Hotel, Marrakech, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Two nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast at the Flower Town Hotel, Rabat, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Two nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast at the Barcelo Fes Medina Hotel, Fes, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• 3 dinners
• 4 lunches
• All tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Airport transfers and full coach touring itinerary
• Tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - from £399
• Meals other than those stated
• Drinks with meals
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Grand Plaza Hotel, Marrakech
This four-star contemporary hotel is well placed for exploring both the modern city and the historic heart of Marrakech. The hotel facilities include a bar, restaurant, an outdoor pool with sun terrace, and a wellness centre with a traditional Moroccan hammam. The comfortable bedrooms offer TV, WIFI, minibar, safe, and hairdryer.
Hotel Website 

Flower Town Hotel, Rabat
This four-star modern hotel is located in the Agdal district of Rabat, an area known for its wide avenues, cafés and restaurants. The hotel facilities include a restaurant, indoor pool, wellness centre with hammam, and fitness room. The comfortable bedrooms offer TV, WIFI, safe, hairdryer, toiletries, and tea/coffee making facilities.
Hotel Website 

Barcelo Fes Medina
This modern four‑star hotel is located on the edge of the historic medina, in Fez’s Ville Nouvelle district, within easy reach of both the old city and the railway station. The hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar, outdoor pool with sun terrace, and a wellness centre. The comfortable bedrooms offer TV, WIFI, safe, hairdryer, toiletries, bathrobes, and tea/coffee making facilities.
Hotel Website