Touristic interest
Imperial cities of Morocco and the Atlantic coast, Imperial cities of Morocco and the Atlantic coast concentrate most of the country’s cultural and traditional historical tourism. It is possibly the most attractive area of Morocco, especially for the first time you travel to the country.
The Imperial Cities of Morocco are Fes, Meknes, Marrakech, and Rabat.
The most important coastal cities are Kenitra, Casablanca, Azemmour, El Jadida, Safi, and Essaouira.
They form next to the Roman ruins of Volúbilis, near Meknes, an artistic and cultural-historical heritage of great interest.
Cultural festivals
Another type of cultural tourism is the one that visits the numerous festivals that are celebrated in these cities.
The most important are:
Festival of Sacred Music in Fes, Sufi Culture Festival of Fes, Gnaoua Festival, and World Music of Essaouira.
Other festivals are held in big cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, highlighting the Tangier Film Festival and several contests related to cinema, Jazz, theater, and traditional music.
Festivals are held in almost all tourist cities to promote and preserve popular traditions and culture. The best-known are:
The Horse Festival in Tissa, the Desert Festival in Errachidía, the International Nomad Festival in Mhamid, the Honey Festival in Agadir, the horse hall and Jawhara Festival in El Jadida, the Cultural Festival of Asilah, the Festival of Arts and Khenifra Mountain, Alhucemas Mediterranean Festival, Mdiq Al Ansra Festival, Safwan Alwan Plastic Arts Festival, Figuig Oasis Culture Festival, Laaraiche Multicultural Festival, Had Kour Spring Festival (Ouezzane), etc., Zajal Festival in Benislimane,
Other parties related to the harvest and the field are:
The Cherry Festival in Sefrou, the Rose Festival in Kelaat MGouna (Roses valley), the Almond Tree Festival in Tafraoute, the Camel Festival in Goulmime, and the Dates Festival in Erfoud.
Musical festivals include the Azalay festival in Ourazazate, the Rai Music Festival in Oujda, the Timitar Festival of Amazigh music in Agadir, and the Merzouga World Music Festival.
Other styles of tourism
Sun and beach tourism do not have the quality and offer of Spain. The great tourist centers of the Kenitra beaches – Rabat, Casablanca –Bouznika –Dar Bouaza, El Jadida –Azemour – Oualidia Safi – Souira Redima, and Essaouira are recommended.
Adventure and nature tourism occurs near Atlas mountain ranges, a few kilometers from these imperial cities. It has a great attraction for nature lovers.
Highlights near Fes and Meknes, cities such as Azrou, Ifrane, Khenifra, Marrakech Beni Mellal, the Ouzoud waterfalls, and the great Atlas with the Jebel Toubkal near Asni.
Sports tourism is represented by Golf, with numerous courses in the tourist areas of Casablanca, El Jadida, Agadir, Marrakech, Fes, Tamuda Bay, etc.
Surfing and Windsurfing on all Atlantic beaches.
Hiking in the Rif and Atlas mountains.
Shopping tourism is very interesting because of the variety and quality of craftsmanship (Carpets, Ceramics, Jewelry, Leather Goods, Fossils, Woods, jellabas, etc…)
Cities such as Fes and Marrakech are the main craft centers and to a lesser extent, Casablanca, Rabat, Safi, Tetouan, and Essaouira.
Shopping for brand clothes, sportswear, perfumes, watches, skin, etc, is becoming more attractive for tourists. At very competitive prices, highlighting Casablanca for its important shopping centers.
Religious tourism is very attractive to Muslims and tourists, visiting the holy cities of Ouezzane, Fes, Meknes, Moulay Idris, Marrakech, and Bejaad and religious parties or Moussem, usually held in almost all towns and cities. The most famous are:
- Moussem Ben Aïssa, the annual meeting of the Brotherhood Aïssouay Moulay Idris, in Meknes,
- Moussem Moulay Idris II in Fes. Moussem of Sidi Abdallah ibn Hassoun in Sale.
- Moussem Moulay Abdallah , El Jadida and Moussem Sidi Moussa Ou Quarqour in Kelaat-Seraghna.
What is the best time of year to visit the Imperial cities of Morocco and the Atlantic coast?
The best time of year to visit is from September to May, as the temperatures are mild and there is less humidity.
What is the oldest Imperial city in Morocco?
Fes is the oldest Imperial city in Morocco, founded in the 9th century.
What is the name of the desert located in southeastern Morocco?
The Sahara Desert is in southeastern Morocco known for its vast dunes.
What is the name of the mountain range located in Morocco?
The Atlas Mountains are a mountain range in Morocco known for its beautiful scenery and hiking trails.
What is the history behind the Imperial cities of Morocco?
The Imperial cities of Morocco were once the capitals of various dynasties that ruled the country, and they are known for their rich history, culture, and architecture.
What is the best way to explore the imperial cities of Morocco?
The best way to explore the imperial cities of Morocco is on foot or by hiring a local guide.
What is the difference between a riad and a hotel in Morocco?
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior courtyard or garden, often converted into a guesthouse or boutique hotel. Hotels in Morocco are typically larger, modern establishments.
What are some traditional handicrafts to look for in Morocco?
Some traditional handicrafts to look for in Morocco include carpets, pottery, leather goods, and textiles like kaftans and djellabas.
What is the significance of the medina in Moroccan cities?
The medina is the historic walled section of a Moroccan city, often featuring narrow alleyways, bustling markets, and traditional architecture. It is usually the city’s heart and a must-see attraction for visitors.
What are some traditional festivals celebrated in Morocco?
Some traditional festivals celebrated in Morocco include the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, the Marrakech International Film Festival, and the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira.
