The Imperial Cities of Morocco
The Imperial Cities of Morocco are a quartet of historic capitals that echo with the grandeur of the country's dynastic past. These are Fez, Marrakech, Meknes, and Rabat, each once serving as the seat of power for a ruling empire.
A Bit of History
Fez, the oldest, is a medieval labyrinth of scholarship and spirituality, centered on its ancient university and tanneries. Marrakech, the "Red City," is a vibrant oasis of bustling souks, fragrant gardens, and the electrifying Jemaa el-Fna square. Meknes, the "Versailles of Morocco," showcases the monumental ambition of Sultan Moulay Ismail with its vast walls and imperial gates. Finally, Rabat, the modern capital, offers a more serene blend of royal heritage, coastal vistas, and contemporary government.
Together, they form an essential journey through time, where visitors can walk within thousand-year-old walls, explore magnificent mosques and palaces, and immerse themselves in the living history and enduring culture that shaped the Moroccan nation.
Day 1
Airport to Fes
On your arrival at the airport, you will be met by your driver and tour guide and then drive directly to the Iconic Imperial City of Fes.
Fes is known as the spiritual and cultural capital of the country as well as a center for handicraft arts.
On your arrival, you will be taken to your hotel or riad. After some rest, enjoy your first dinner in Morocco and then an overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 2
Guided tour of Fes
After breakfast, begin your Fes sightseeing tour from Fès el-Jdid to continue the Iconic Imperial Cities of Morocco.
Visit the historical sites such as the Royal Palace, one of the oldest and largest in Morocco, the Mellah or Jewish Quarter, dating from 1438, and the landmark Marinid Tombs which also offer an extensive lookout over the Old City.
Later, you will enter the winding, old walled city of Fes el Bali, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.
Here you will visit the magnificent Moulay Idriss Mausoleum and the medieval University of Karaouiyne plus the leather tanneries which have been in use for 1000 years.
Return to your hotel or riad and have dinner at a restaurant of your choice in the city.
Day 3
Day Trip from Fes to Volubilis - Moulay Idriss - Meknes
After breakfast, drive to Volubilis, which is one of the best-preserved excavations in Northern Africa dating from the Roman Empire, and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This archeological site provides you an opportunity to explore an ancient Roman and Berber city which has been partially excavated. Some of the townhouses and old mosaic floors have survived.
Then drive to the charming whitewashed city of Moulay Idriss which is considered the holiest city in Morocco.
It was here that Moulay Idriss 1 arrived in 789, bringing with him the religion of Islam and starting a new dynasty.
Then head to Meknes, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the Bab Mansour Gate, the Bab Berdieyinne Mosque and more.
At the end of the day, relax with a Turkish bath (Hamman) and massage.
Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4
Fes to Marrakesh
After breakfast, drive to the Imperial City of Marrakesh through the Berber villages and the Middle Atlas Mountains.
The road winds through the mountains and you will be able to stop for photos and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Upon your arrival in Marrakesh, your driver will take you to your hotel or riad for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5
Guided tour of Marrakesh
After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of the city of Marrakesh, also known as the ‘Red City’.
The red color is pervasive as many buildings were constructed from local sandstone.
You will have an opportunity to explore a number of historical palaces, museums and sites in the city, such as The Walled Medina of Marrakesh, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
See the former palaces of the Sultan which have been rebuilt and restored and are rich in history and cultural heritage.
Enjoy all the festivities in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jemaa el Fnaa Square.
Visit the Majorelle Garden, an artist’s landscape, the Bahia Palace and more.
Return to your hotel or riad and have dinner at a restaurant of your choice
Day 6
Day Trip from Marrakesh to Ourika Valley
After breakfast, depart for a day trip to Ourika Valley. You will be in awe of the spectacular views of the small rocky hills, green mountains, and grazing sheep.
Enjoy lunch in the heart of Ourika Valley by the river before you head to see the waterfalls of Setti Fatma and observe the Berber lifestyle.
Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7
Casablanca
After breakfast, you will take the highway to Casablanca, the largest and most progressive city in Morocco.
In the afternoon, after a rest in your hotel, you can explore the beachfront, also known as the Corniche.
Visit the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco and one of the largest in the world.
Then enjoy a ‘Farewell to Morocco’ dinner at Rick’s Cafe, a Casablanca landmark.
After dinner, return to your hotel for a final overnight stay.
Day 8
Transfer to Casablanca airport
After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the airport
Hotels and Riads in Morocco
Selection of luxury accommodations in imperial cities
Fez - Hotels & Riads
-
1Riad Fes
-
2Hotel Palais Faraj Suites & Spa
-
1Hotel Fes Marriott Jnan Palace
-
2Hotel Palais Medina & Spa
-
1Riad Salam
-
2Riad El Yacout
-
3Barcelo Fes Medina
-
1Riad dar Fes Medina
-
2Riad Mazar Fes
-
3Hotel L'Escale
Marrakech - Hotels & Riads
-
1Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
-
2La Mamounia
-
1La Sultana
-
2La Villa des Orangers
-
3Le Meridien N'Fis
-
4Les Jardins de la Medina
-
5Palmeraie Palace
-
1Atlas Medina & Spa
-
2Les Borjs de la Kasbah
-
3Hotel Opera Plaza
-
1Le Caspian
-
2Riad Dar Sara
-
3Riad de la Belle Époque
Casablanca - Hotels & Riads
-
1Hotel Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche
-
1Hyatt Regency
-
2Golden Tulip
-
3Hotel Kenzi Tower
-
1Novotel
-
2Hotel Club Val d'Anfa Casablanca
-
1Hotel Al Walid
-
2Hotel Ibis
| Hotel category | Original price | Discounted price |
|---|---|---|
| 5-star luxury (suite) | $7,160 | $6,444 |
| 5-stars hotel | $5,100 | $4,590 |
| 4-stars hotel | $4,200 | $3,780 |
| 3-stars hotel | $3,200 | $2,880 |
Book Your Heritage Tour
Customized Kosher meal plans and flexible itineraries available.
GET A CUSTOM QUOTE