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Travel in Morocco: the complete practical guide

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The Koutoubia minaret above the rooftops of Marrakech
Contents

In short: Marrakech is the ideal gateway, with souks, riads and gardens, and the Atlas and the desert within reach. Many nationalities, including French citizens, enter visa-free for 90 days. Bring cash in dirhams and book a transfer to reach your riad.

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When to go

  • Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November): the best time, mild and bright.
  • Summer: very hot in Marrakech and the desert; the Atlantic coast (Essaouira, Agadir) stays pleasant.
  • Winter: mild by day, cool at night; snow on the Atlas peaks.

Entry requirements

Many nationalities, including French citizens, can stay up to 90 days visa-free, with a valid passport. Check the rules for your nationality.

Arriving in Marrakech

  • Bus 19 links the airport to Jemaa el-Fna square in about 30 minutes.
  • With luggage, prefer a taxi or a pre-booked transfer: ask your riad how to get there, as some medina lanes cannot be reached by car.

Getting around Morocco

  • By train: the network links Marrakech with Casablanca, Rabat, Fes and Tangier; a high-speed train (Al Boraq) runs between Tangier and Casablanca.
  • By coach: national companies serve the whole country.
  • By car or with a driver: ideal for the Atlas, the valleys and the desert.

Money, internet and practicalities

  • Currency: the dirham, obtained once you arrive (exchange offices, ATMs). Cash is essential in the souks.
  • Bargaining: in the souks, haggling is part of the exchange.
  • Internet: install a travel eSIM.
  • Dress: clothing covering shoulders and knees is appreciated, especially outside big cities.

What to see in Morocco

  • Marrakech: Jemaa el-Fna square, the souks, the Majorelle Garden, Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, the Ben Youssef Madrasa.
  • The Atlas: the Ourika Valley, Imlil, Aït Benhaddou.
  • The desert: Agafay near Marrakech, or the Merzouga dunes further away.
  • And also: Essaouira, Fes, Chefchaouen, Rabat.

Suggested itinerary

7 days: 3 days in Marrakech, 1 day in the Atlas, 2 days towards the desert (Aït Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, Agafay or Merzouga depending on time), and 1 day in Essaouira.

Where to stay

Staying in a riad in the medina is a unique experience. Our Marrakech page compares the areas for your travel style.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Morocco?

Not for many nationalities, including French citizens, who can stay up to 90 days visa-free with a valid passport. Check the rules for your nationality.

How do I get from Marrakech airport to the medina?

Bus 19 links the airport to Jemaa el-Fna square in about 30 minutes; taxis and pre-booked transfers are easier with luggage, especially as medina lanes are hard to find the first time.

Can I pay by card in Morocco?

Cards are accepted in hotels, riads and many restaurants, but cash is essential in the souks and small shops. Dirhams are obtained once you arrive.

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