Morroco Travel Guide 

Barely 20 miles from Europe, Morocco is a world apart. Fast ferries from Spain link a country that is part Arab, part African, with a character all of its own.

Morocco’s cities are the obvious draws. Marrakech and Fez are the places to explore the medieval alleys of ancient medinas, packed with donkeys, traders and the scents of Africa. Casablanca and Rabat are modern with elegant boulevards and a Gallic café culture, while Tangier and Agadir are sophisticated cities where the beach takes centre stage.

Drill down to the smaller towns and Morocco’s heritage is more distinct and accessible. Visit Chefchouan, in the north, where cornflower-blue houses sprawl on a fertile hillside, or the fortified coastal town of Essaouira, once a Portuguese outpost on Atlantic Africa. Inexpensive taxi rides reach stunning highlights, Roman columns preserved by the desert at Volubilis and mud-built forts towering over folding mountain landscapes.

Zoom in closer and be welcomed into village life: ride the waves in surf communities on the sunsoaked southern coast near Agadir, trek to Berber villages huddled against adobe castle walls in the Atlas Mountains and join nomads on camels to cross Saharan dunes.

At every level Moroccans are exceptionally hospitable: this is one country where you are likely to be invited into private homes and plied with sweet tea. Relax and complete your experience with a taste of Morocco; slow-cooked tagine, pastilla (pigeon pastry) or couscous are specialities.

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When to go

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the most pleasant times to visit, with warm days and cool nights. Summer (June-August) is stiflingly hot, except in the high mountains, while winter can be chilly everywhere. Ramadan sees many restaurants close during the day and transport options can be limited.

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International airports

Marrackech Menara Airport (RAK) is 6km south-west of the city. Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) is 30km south-east of Casablanca. Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA) is 28km east of the city.

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Getting around

Domestic flights link the main cities, usually via the Casablanca hub. Trains connect Tangier, Fez, Meknes, Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech.

Buses and coaches link most towns; grand taxis (share taxis) are quick and convenient for shorter inter-town journeys. Car hire is possible, though driving in cities can be fraught.

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