Morocco Historical Royal Cities

Upon arrival at Casablanca airport, our representative will await you, where your Morocco cultural small group tour gathers. Meet your group and your tour leader; from there, you will travel to Morocco’s capital, Rabat, an imperial city with a vibrant history that has accumulated over the centuries, various architectural styles, and a legacy second to none. You will spend the afternoon with our unique guide viewing the many monuments and neighborhoods the city has to offer, including the Mellah (Jewish quarter), the Mohamed V mausoleum, the Oudaya Kasbah, the Andalous Gardens, and other sites of interest, ending your day with dinner at the Hotel.

After breakfast, we will be traveling overland East. Your small group cultural tour to Morocco proceeds to Fez. Our day will culminate with your arrival in Fez, traveling through the Roman capital of Northwestern Africa, Volubilis. In addition, you will pay a visit to Moulay Idris, a venerated citadel founded in the 8th century by Moulay Idris Al Akbar, grandson of the Prophet Mohamed (s.a.w.s). It is considered the cradle of Sufism in Moroccan society and the first Islamic capital for the premier Arab dynasty. Created primarily for the indigenous population, Moulay Idris has become a central destination for those who cannot afford to pilgrimage to Makkah for the Hajj duty. Your day will conclude with sightseeing in Fez, including the ramparts, the gates, and the Borjes (Moorish Forts), and finally, a festive dinner at your hotel.

You will spend your day with the best local guide exploring the majestic city of Fez, beginning with visits to the Mellah, a historic Jewish quarter with its maze of the extraordinary architecture of medieval Moorish style, the King’s palace, and the Bat’ha Museum of Moroccan Arts, the Panoramic views overlooking the medieval Medina of Fez. The remainder of your morning will be spent on a walking tour of the Medina, a walled city with a maze of medieval twisting alleys, blind turns, mosques, shrines, fountains ( the best of Moorish architecture), workshops and Guilds, and numerous inconceivable markets. You will break for lunch at a typical Moroccan restaurant and continue to explore and shop for the remainder of the afternoon, ending with dinner at your hotel.

Highlights:

Al Attarine Madrasa, a jewel of Moroccan architecture, blends Islamic artistry with scholarly heritage. Nestled in Fez's medina, it enchants visitors with intricate tilework, carved wood, and serene courtyards. This historic madrasa is a testament to Morocco's cultural richness.

Seffarine Square: A bustling hub in the heart of Fez's medina, resonating with the rhythmic clang of metalworkers crafting intricate copperware. Immerse yourself in the age-old tradition of Moroccan craftsmanship amidst the vibrant atmosphere of this lively marketplace.

Al Qarawiyyin Mosque: The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, founded in 859 AD in Fez, Morocco, is one of the world's oldest universities and a center of Islamic scholarship. Its stunning architecture, intricate tilework, and peaceful courtyards reflect centuries of learning and spiritual devotion. Today, it remains a revered symbol of Morocco's rich cultural and intellectual heritage.

You will spend your day en route to Marrakech with your knowledgeable tour leader, traveling through Ifrane, across the middle Atlas Mountains, and other Berber villages. We will deviate at el Hajeb to take the highway to gain some travel time. We will pause for lunch on the road before descending the foothills overlooking Marrakech Alhamra. This city captivates the imagination and provides satisfaction for every possible taste. Your tour guide will elaborate on many aspects of landscapes and the natural makeup of areas you are traveling through with your small group tours. This cultural expedition will include visits to Berber villages, scenic views, and traditional markets. You will conclude your day with dinner at your hotel.

You will spend your day exploring the majesties and wonders of Marrakech, including a visit to the historic Menara, a magnificent pool surrounded by flowerbeds, which reflects the image of a beautiful Moorish edifice. The construction, built in 1866, was designed for the dignitaries to enjoy glorious sunsets, with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains providing an ethereal backdrop. The pool is also an innovative, functional irrigation system in an ancient architectural style adapted to the desert lifestyle. In addition, you will visit several impressive sights, including the Koutoubia Minaret (identical to la Giralda, a tower located in Sevilla, Spain) and the Saadian tombs, which demonstrate Moorish architecture at its greatest. The tombs, a collection of sixteenth-century mausoleums, were hidden behind walls until their discovery in 1917. Lunch will take place at your hotel, and the afternoon will consist of a tour of Marrakech's colorful souks (markets). After a sunset drink overlooking the bustling Jamaa El Fna Square, you will conclude your day with dinner at a typical Moroccan restaurant, including local entertainment.

Other interesting sights will include: • The Museum of Dar Si Said displays Berber arts and crafts from all over Morocco. • The remains of the Badii Palace, a historical monument host to the Annual National Festival of Popular Arts, begin the second Friday in June. • The Bahia Palace exemplifies Moorish splendor at its finest. It is situated in the heart of the Mellah and continues to host dignitaries.

Your full guided day with your private small group tour will be spent continuing your exploration of Marrakech, including a visit to the botanical gardens and the Museum of Water. Other activities include shopping in the colonial district of Guelize and a festive dinner at your hotel.

We will drive you from Marrakech to Casablanca Airport, where you will check in for your international flight home. Having achieved a memorable Morocco Cultural Experience, revisit us on one of our future Morocco cultural small group tours.