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Morocco has always been on my bucket list, and I finally got the chance to spend a long weekend there recently with my girlfriend. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the winding alleys of Fes, this trip was an adventure packed with vibrant culture, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences. Here are my top tips for a getaway to Morocco!
Marrakech
Where to Eat
Kick off your culinary adventure at La Table de la Kasbah. Don’t miss the beef tagine; the rich flavors and tender meat will set the tone for the delicious journey ahead. Another can’t miss is Cafe Restaurant Dar L’hssira. This little hidden gem has some of the best food we had on the whole trip. For a taste of traditional Moroccan pastry, don’t miss the chicken pastilla, it’s the perfect blend of savory and sweet wrapped in flaky pastry.
It’s on everyone’s plan for their trip to Marrakech, but don’t miss Bacha Coffee – it’s worth it, but plan an early visit. They open at 10, but trust me, arriving by 9:30-9:45 is crucial to avoid the long wait. We arrived at 10:30 and waited for 1.5 hours! Skip the museum, but definitely explore the beautiful grounds and get some photos while you wait.
Must-Visit Spots
Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture by staying in a traditional riad. These beautifully decorated guesthouses offer an authentic and luxurious experience. We stayed in Riad Le Saadien.
Lose yourself in the enchanting Jardin Majorelle, a stunning botanical garden which is also where you can also visit the memorial of Yves Saint Laurent. Aptly the Musee YSL is right next door. It’s an incredible tribute to his legacy and is a must-visit for anyone with a interest in fashion!
We also took a trip to the Agafay Desert, but honestly, it was a bit of a letdown. The camels looked sad, and the experience didn’t meet our expectations. However, the dinner in the desert was incredible and made up for it. If I had a do-over, I’d consider exploring the Sahara from Fes instead.
Although we didn’t have time, Le Bains D’Orient was on my list and is highly recommended for a traditional Hammam experience.
My Best Advice
- Taxis: A 10-minute taxi ride should cost around 20-40 MAD. Always agree the price with the driver before you get in. Don’t be afraid to just wait for the next one if you don’t get the price you want.
- Be Cautious: Politely decline offers for help or photos to avoid being charged. And remember, nothing is free. We had multiple experiences – A woman grabbed my hand without my consent, gave me henna, and then asked for money, another guy gave us ‘free’ cookies then tried to charge us $9 each! Just don’t fall for kind acts, as nothing in Morocco is for free.
- Alcohol: Alcohol is super expensive, so we ended up going teetotal for the weekend in the end. It was a refreshing change!
Fes
To fully experience the magic of Fes, make sure to stay within the Medina. It’s a labyrinth of history and culture that you’ll want to be right in the middle of.
Where to Eat
For a diverse and delicious meal, you have to try the Fes Platter at Cafe Clock. It’s a great way to sample a variety of local flavors. Another must-visit spot for food lovers is the Ruined Garden. The ambiance and cuisine are definitely Instagrammable.
Must-Visit Spots
Though it was closed during our visit, Jardin Jnan Sbil looked beautiful from the outside and is worth checking out. It’s a little difficult to find, but you need to leave the Medina through one of the gates and then follow the signs. Another must see in Fes are the tanneries, which is where they process the leather that is used to make many of the leather goods you’ll see for sale in the Medina. While visiting them is a fascinating experience, avoid accepting guided tours from strangers. They’ll take you to shops and expect a tip. Just say no and explore on your own. Also don’t forget to take some mint for your nose – you’ll understand when you get there!
We also enjoyed a relaxing Hammam at Riad Jardin des Biehn. It’s very basic but was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
My Best Advice
- Maps: Ensure you have data or a reliable map app, as the Medina is a maze of narrow alleys and it’s easy to get lost.
- Argan Oil: There are a lot of places selling Argan oil, but the important thing to remember is that real Argan oil is always bottled in glass, to preserve it correctly. So, if you see anything in plastic bottles, it’s most likely been diluted with paraffin oil, the same ingredient they use in Vaseline (which is very cheap – don’t be fooled into paying Argan oil prices!)
- Cash: Many places don’t accept cards, so make sure to have enough cash on hand.
Is It Safe to Travel to Morocco as a Girl?
Traveling to Morocco was an incredible experience, but as always, it’s important to stay aware and cautious. Dress modestly (covered legs and arms—linen is best here with the hot temperatures) to respect the local culture and avoid unwanted attention. The most important thing to remember is that nothing is free, and I think a lot of people in Morocco, unfortunately, see you as a walking ATM, maybe more so if you are alone or with another girl. So if someone is offering you something (and they will do it everywhere), politely decline if you don’t want to in an awkward position handing over cash for something you didn’t want. We didn’t really try and stay out at night, and to be honest there isn’t anywhere to really go out and drink/party—it’s really not that kind of place. But I found the majority locals to be friendly and welcoming, but always keep your wits about you, especially in crowded areas. Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to say no if something feels off!
Morocco is a vibrant and enchanting destination that’s perfect for a quick getaway. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer. Happy travels!
