Morocco Holidays

It's only a short flight away, but holidays in Morocco feel like a world apart. You can find yourself sipping sweet mint tea in an ancient medina one day and relaxing on a golden beach the next. This is a country of contrasts, where the sharp peaks of the Atlas Mountains give way to sweeping coastlines, and bustling cities give you a warm welcome. From the vibrant energy of Marrakech to the laid-back coastal charm of Agadir, you can shape your trip to be as relaxing or as action-packed as you like.

Marrakech uncovered

Many trips to Morocco are centred around historic Marrakech, and for good reason. The city is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and scents that capture the imagination. It's a place where ancient traditions and modern life come together in a colourful display.

Jemaa el-Fnaa and the medina

The heart of the old city is Jemaa el-Fnaa, a vast main square that comes alive with storytellers, musicians, and street food stalls. From here, you can dive into the maze-like alleyways of the medina, the old walled part of the city. As you wander, you'll pass shops selling everything from handcrafted leather goods and lanterns to aromatic spices and traditional rugs. Polite haggling is part of the fun in the souks, so feel free to negotiate with a smile.

Gardens and architecture

For a moment of calm, you can find peaceful courtyards and gardens dotted around the city. The Jardin Majorelle is a striking botanical garden with vivid blue accents, while the Menara Gardens offer a large reflective pool set against the backdrop of the mountains. For a look into the area's rich history, the 12th-century Ben Youssef Madrasa is a prime example of intricate tilework and quiet courtyards.

Agadir and the Atlantic coast

If sunshine and sandy shores are calling your name, Morocco's Atlantic coast delivers. Agadir is a popular base for a beach holiday, offering a long stretch of sand, a modern promenade, and plenty of places to eat and drink.

Beaches of Agadir and beyond

Agadir's main beach stretches for more than seven miles, giving you plenty of space to find a spot. To the north, the village of Taghazout is known for its relaxed surf culture and large, uncrowded beach. A little further along the coast, Anza Beach is a great place to watch surfers and paddle boarders while enjoying fresh seafood at a beachfront cafe. The historic port city of Essaouira is also within reach, known for its art galleries and windswept beach popular with windsurfers.

Sights of Agadir city

Beyond the beach, Agadir has plenty of other sights to explore. After the original old town was destroyed by an earthquake in 1960, a new medina was built in the 1990s as an authentic replica to preserve Amazigh culture. You can also head up to the old Kasbah, which dates back to 1541, for panoramic views of the city and coastline. For a change of pace, Souk El Had is one of the largest markets in the region, with more than 6,000 stalls.

Adventures in the Moroccan landscape

Beyond the cities and beaches, Morocco's natural landscapes are truly impressive. From the highest mountains in North Africa to protected coastal wetlands, there's plenty for you to explore.

The High Atlas Mountains

The High Atlas range is a line of jagged peaks and deep gorges accessible from Marrakech. Here, you'll find distinctive mud-built Amazigh villages clinging to the hillsides and lush valleys filled with orchards. It's a fantastic area for hiking, with trails for all abilities. In winter, from December to April, some resorts around Toubkal National Park even open their ski slopes, offering a unique opportunity to ski in Africa.

Deserts and national parks

You don't need to venture deep into the Sahara to get a taste of the desert. The Tifnit sand dunes are just an hour from Agadir. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Souss-Massa National Park, just south of Agadir, is a protected area of wetlands and dunes. It's an important bird sanctuary and home to other wildlife, such as the African wild cat.

A taste of Morocco

Moroccan food is a highlight for many visitors, with dishes full of flavour and fresh ingredients. The cuisine is a delicious blend of Amazigh, Arab, and Moorish influences.

Signature dishes

Tagine is the iconic slow-cooked stew, cooked and served in a distinctive cone-lidded pot. You'll find countless variations with chicken, lamb, or vegetables, often sweetened with fruit and fragrant with spices. In Marrakech, look out for tanjia, a local speciality of beef slow-cooked in a clay pot with preserved lemon and garlic. These hearty dishes are typically served with simple, freshly baked flatbread.

Street food and drink

Wandering from cart to cart is a great way to sample local food. Try maakouda, comforting potato cakes, or spicy merguez sausages. To drink, freshly squeezed orange juice is sold everywhere, but nothing is more Moroccan than mint tea. This sweet, refreshing drink is a symbol of hospitality and is enjoyed at all times of the day.

From exploring ancient souks to relaxing on sandy beaches, Morocco offers a rich variety of things to see and do. It's a country that engages all the senses and gives you a warm welcome.