Author: Trips Around Morocco

10 Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Traveling to Morocco

Morocco is a country with a rich history and culture, making it a popular tourist destination. From the bustling markets to the stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone in Morocco. However, as with any trip, it’s essential to be aware of the do’s and don’ts in Morocco to ensure that your stay is enjoyable and hassle-free. In this article, we’ll be sharing ten essential tips for traveling to Morocco, so you can make the most of your trip.

Do’s and Don’ts for Dressing Appropriately

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and its people are conservative in their dress. When preparing for your trip, it’s essential to pack modest clothing that covers your knees and shoulders. Women should also consider packing a scarf to cover their head when visiting religious sites. It’s also worth noting that during the summer months, temperatures can soar, so it’s best to opt for lightweight fabrics to keep cool.

When it comes to footwear, comfortable shoes are a must. Morocco’s streets and markets are notoriously uneven, and there’s a lot of walking to be done, so it’s best to leave the high heels at home. Additionally, if you plan on visiting the desert, closed-toe shoes are a must to protect your feet from the hot sand.

Overall, dressing modestly and comfortably is the key. Wearing revealing clothing or tight-fitting clothes may attract unwanted attention and make you feel uncomfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts in Morocco for Interacting with Locals

Morocco is a friendly and welcoming country, and locals are generally eager to help tourists. However, it’s important to be mindful of cultural differences when interacting with locals. For example, it’s customary to greet people with a handshake, and it’s considered rude to refuse tea when offered.

It’s also essential to be respectful of people’s privacy and personal space. Taking photos of people without their consent or touching them without permission is considered impolite. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of the language barrier. Although many Moroccans speak French or English, it’s always appreciated if you make an effort to learn a few Arabic phrases.

Overall, be respectful of local customs and traditions, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice.

Do’s and Don’ts for Bargaining in the Markets

Morocco is known for its bustling markets, where you can find everything from spices to traditional clothing. However, when shopping in the markets, it’s important to remember that haggling is expected. Starting with a low offer and working your way up is part of the fun of shopping in Morocco, but it’s important to be respectful when doing so.

It’s also worth noting that some vendors may try to overcharge tourists, so it’s important to have a rough idea of the item’s value before starting to bargain. Additionally, it’s best to avoid buying items from children as they may be working instead of attending school.

Overall, bargaining is part of the culture in Morocco, so don’t be afraid to give it a go, but remember to be respectful and fair.

Do’s and Don’ts for Driving in Morocco

If you plan on driving in Morocco, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the roads are often narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive cautiously. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the rules of the road may be different from what you’re used to. For example, it’s common for cars to stop in the middle of the road to chat with friends or conduct business.

It’s also worth noting that road signs may be in Arabic or French, so it’s essential to have a basic understanding of these languages. Lastly, it’s important to be aware of the police checkpoints, which are common on major roads.

Overall, driving in Morocco can be a great way to explore the country, but it’s important to be cautious and aware of local driving customs.

Do’s and Don’ts in Morocco for Eating and Drinking

Moroccan cuisine is known for its flavorful spices and unique dishes. When dining out, it’s important to be aware of the customs surrounding eating and drinking. For example, it’s customary to eat with your right hand and to use bread to scoop up food instead of a fork.

It’s also worth noting that alcohol is not widely available in Morocco, and it’s prohibited in some areas. Additionally, it’s important to be cautious when drinking tap water, as it may not be safe to consume. It’s best to stick to bottled water and to avoid ice in drinks.

Overall, Moroccan cuisine is delicious, and it’s worth trying local dishes, but it’s important to be mindful of local customs and to take precautions when drinking water.

Do’s and Don’ts in Morocco for Visiting Mosques

Morocco is home to many beautiful mosques, and visiting them can be a great way to learn about the country’s history and culture. However, when visiting mosques, it’s important to be respectful of the religious customs and traditions. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering a mosque, and women should cover their heads.

It’s also worth noting that some mosques may not be open to non-Muslims, so it’s important to check before visiting. Finally, it’s important to be respectful of people praying and to avoid taking photos inside the mosque.

Overall, visiting mosques can be a great way to learn about Moroccan culture and history, but it’s essential to be respectful of religious customs and traditions.

Do’s and Don’ts in Morocco for Photography

Morocco is a beautiful country, and it’s natural to want to capture memories of your trip through photography. However, it’s important to be respectful of people’s privacy and to avoid taking photos without their consent. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of cultural sensitivities when taking photos.

For example, it’s best to avoid taking photos of women without their consent, and it’s important to be respectful of religious sites when taking photos. It’s also worth noting that some areas may be off-limits to photography, so it’s important to be aware of local regulations.

Overall, photography is a great way to capture memories of your trip, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs and people’s privacy.

Do’s and Don’ts in Morocco for Safety

Although Morocco is generally a safe country, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions to ensure your safety. For example, it’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. It’s also important to keep your valuables safe and to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

When using public transport, it’s important to be cautious of pickpockets, who may target tourists. Additionally, it’s worth noting that some areas of the country may be more prone to natural disasters, such as floods or earthquakes, so it’s important to be aware of local warnings and to take precautions accordingly.

Overall, Morocco is a safe country, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions to ensure your safety.

Conclusion

Morocco is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, making it a popular destination for tourists. However, as with any trip, it’s important to be aware of the do’s and don’ts to ensure that your stay is enjoyable and hassle-free. From dressing appropriately to being respectful of local customs, we’ve covered the essential tips for traveling to Morocco. By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip and experience all that Morocco has to offer.

The Evil Eye

The evil eye is the belief that another person’s malevolent glare can cause harm, suffering, or bad luck. It is well-known in many cultures and regions, including the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Central America. Evil belief is based on the idea that lavishing someone or something with praise or admiration can make them a target for a malicious gaze. This superstition has been linked to a variety of rituals and amulets aimed at warding off evil, such as reciting prayers, painting the eyelids black, or offering milk. Many cultures have a strong fear of the evil eye during life transitions such as puberty, marriage, or childbirth. While some cultures fear the evil eye in metaphorical rather than literal terms, it still serves as a warning of negative intentions from the person casting the evil eye.

I. introductory paragraph

• The definition and significance of the evil eye
• The origins and history of the belief in the evil eye
• Despite cultural differences, everyone fears the evil eye.

II. The Middle East and Asia’s Evil Eye

• In Islamic teachings, the Prophet Muhammad warns about the dangers of the evil eye.
• In the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Central America, there is a widespread belief in the evil eye.
• Excessive praise is a source of the evil eye in these areas.

The Evil Eye in Greece and Rome III

• As punishment for excessive pride and self-obsession, the evil eye is used.
• The evil eye is a source of illness and physical harm

In India, the Evil Eye

• In Hinduism, the evil eye is a powerful superstition.
• The eye is the most powerful point of energy emission in the body, and jealousy is the source of the evil eye’s power.
• The bad eye is especially hazardous during life transitions.
• Potential sources of the bad eye include snakes.
• Women are the most commonly affected by the bad eye.
• Blackening the eyelids to protect against bad vision
• V. In South America, the Evil

Brazil’s belief in the “fat eye”

• Different interpretations of compliments as evil triggers

VI. The European Evil Eye

• Evil is a belief in the power of jealous or spiteful looks to bring bad luck.
• The most common source of the evil eye is witches.
• Fear of those with unusual eye colors as having the evil eye look
• Different European cultures regard red eyes, squinting eyes, and unibrows as signs of an evil eye.

The Evil Eye in America, VII

• Evil serves as an unwelcome warning of negative intentions.
• As a metaphor, evil is not a strong enough superstition to warrant caution.

What exactly is the evil eye?

The menacing stare. This well-known symbol has most likely been seen before. You’ve almost certainly worn one, and you’ve almost certainly seen someone else wearing one. You’ve probably seen someone give the “evil” look (and you may have even given it yourself). But do you know the deep and profound history of the bad eye symbol, as well as how widespread and prevalent it is in various cultures? The essential information on the symbol that has become so popular that it is now one of the most fashionable pieces of jewelry is provided below.

The Meaning and Origins of the Bad Eye

The evil eye symbol and belief is one of the world’s most powerful symbolic images. Regardless of cultural differences, the evil myth has roughly the same meaning wherever it is told. The evil eye is a look that is intended to cause pain, suffering, or some type of bad luck to those who receive it. It’s a look that says you want something bad to happen to the person you’re looking at, either because you’re jealous or because you’re envious. The malicious stare, according to the superstition of evil, is powerful enough to cause actual misfortune for the unfortunate recipient of the glare.

The belief in the Evil eye

People in ancient Greece and Rome traced the belief in evil back to themselves. They considered evil the most severe threat to anyone who received too much praise or admiration. The acclaimed individual would become obsessed with themselves, bringing about their own demise through the bad eye. They thought that the bad eye caused bodily and mental illness and was the origin of any illness with no known cause. The gods and goddesses punished people who were overly proud of their accomplishments by annihilating them with the power of evil, reducing them to the level of common humans.

Every continent believes in evil. Evil is feared throughout the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Central America. In Sahih Muslim Book 26, the prophet Muhammad warns about the dangers of the evil eye and suggests taking a bath to counteract its influence.

Evil eye in Greece

Excessive praise, as it was in Classical Greece and Ancient Rome, is said to bring about the terrible consequences of the bad eye. Instead of admiring a cute child, say that “God has willed” the child’s good fortunes, or risk injuring the child. Ashkenazi Jews believe that excessive praise exposes them to evil and will shout the Yiddish phrase “Keyn anymore!” (no evil eye!) to protect themselves.

The Evil in India

In India, the bad eye is a powerful superstition. According to Hinduism, the most powerful point from which the body can emit energy is the eye. As a result, a deep fear of an “evil” glance from the eye makes sense; the bad eye possesses tremendous power. Hindus believe that even an “adorable” eye can bring bad luck, resulting in a shortage of cow milk (again, this idea dates back to the fear of undue praise, first warned against in Greece). To ward off the evil, Hindus will offer the “admiring” glancer a bowl of milk.

According to the Hindu religion, the power of evil, whether wicked or admirable, stems from jealousy. Surprisingly, Hindus are taught that having a bad eye is especially dangerous during life transitions like puberty, marriage, or childbirth.

Hindus believe that even animals, such as snakes, can pass on evil. According to Hindu belief, while men can cast a bad eye, women are more likely to benefit from it. As a result, females in South India will paint their eyelids black in order to protect themselves from evil and avoid staring at others with their look.

The Evel in Brazil

Brazil has a belief in South America known as the “fat eye,” which is similar to the bad eye. Unlike in other cultures, genuine compliments are not thought to bring bad luck, whereas fraudulent compliments are thought to put one in danger.

The concept of the bad eye arose in Europe from the belief that jealous or spiteful looks could bring bad luck. People thought that witches were the most common source of evil. They considered those with unusual eye colors to be formidable bearers of the bad eye look. For example, Germans were terrified of anyone with red eyes. In Ireland, people believed that evil-eye sorcerers caused squinting eyes. A unibrow was another sign of an evil in Italy.

The Evil In America

In America, the fear of the bad eye was only a metaphor. While the superstition is not strong enough to warrant concern, the evil is considered unpleasant and serves as a warning that the person who caused the bad eye has negative intentions.

Different languages have different names for the bad eye.

• Ayin Ha’ra is the Hebrew word for evil.
• Nazar Boncugu is the Turkish name for the Evil Eye.
• The Italian term for Evil is Mal Occhio.
• Farsi version of Bla Band.
• Ayin Harsha is an Arabic expression.
• Droch Shuil is a Scottish town.
• In Spanish, El Oja.
• In France, it is known as Mauvais Oeil.
• Böser Blick is a newspaper in Germany.
• Malus Oculus.

Techniques to Avoid the Evil Eye

To protect themselves from the evil, the Greeks carried incense or the cross in addition to evil amulets. New mothers used red, black, or white strings, a nail, gunpowder, bread, salt, garlic, a ring, indigo blue, or a pair of silver buckles as protection. Each of these artifacts served a purpose, making it a powerful deterrent to evil. Gunpowder, for example, represented the ability to combat the bad eye. The nail represented bravery. Indigo’s potency was preserved by its blue color. Salt was a symbol of strength and endurance.

Cure for the Evil Eye

If these precautions were ineffective, the Greeks had a plethora of other treatments for bad eyes. Some villages burned bear fur to cure the curse. In other cases, a gypsy would massage the forehead to alleviate the effects of the bad eye.

In many countries, including Greece, Armenia, and Assyria, a pinch on the backside is said to cure the curse of the bad eye. Some European Christians make the cross with their hands, pointing the index and pinky fingers toward the source of the bad eye. A black dot is placed on the forehead of children in Bangladesh to ward off the curse of bad eyes. Beautiful young women have a kohl dot drawn behind their ears to ward off the evil.

Talismans and Amulets for Protection Against the Evil

Phrases and rituals are not the only ways to protect yourself from the bad eye’s influence. To avoid the effects of the evil eye, many civilizations use evil talismans, evil eye symbols, and evil jewelry. These are meant to “mirror” the power of the evil look. The bad eye amulet was created in Greece as an “apotropaic” amulet, meaning it reflected damage. The Nazar, or basic design of the bad eye, is a talisman with concentric blue and white circles to represent the bad eye. It’s commonly seen in houses, cars, and jewelry.

Evil Look

The Hamsa, also known as the “Hand of Fatima,” is a highly effective evil amulet in the Middle East and Africa. The hamsa is a hand with evil in its palm. The hamsa can be used as wallpaper or jewelry to ward off the evil eye. The Hamsa is also known as the “Hand of God” or the “Hand of Miriam” in Jewish culture. The popularity of Kabbalah has influenced the hamsa’s appeal in jewelry and design.

The Evil Eye in the Modern Era

The bad eye has a strong influence on modern life, pop culture, and even jewelry and design. Who hasn’t heard or had the phrase “the evil” thrown at them at least once or twice? Turkish culture deeply ingrains the symbolism of the bad eye. People wear bad eye pendants on items that may attract greed, envy, or malice. People can find the bad eye symbol on coinage, in homes and businesses, around the necks of newborn children and farm animals, and in building foundations in Turkey.

Jewelry imbued with the Evil Eye

The bad eye is a very fashionable piece of jewelry right now. Photographers have captured many celebrities, including Madonna, Britney Spears, The Olsen Twins, Mick Jagger, and Nicole Richie (to name a few), wearing red Kabbalah wristbands that provide additional protection from evil. Photographers have also captured Cameron Diaz, Kelly Ripa, Brad Pitt, Kim Kardashian, Lindsay Lohan, Lauren Conrad, and Rhianna wearing the bad eye amulet. Clearly, this well-known and appealing image has grown in popularity.

Is the Evil Eye merely a myth?

Surprisingly, the concept of the bad eye appears to make a lot of sense in today’s world. The notion of the evil eye may be perpetuated by the belief that too much fame, riches, success, or praise will lead to one’s demise, particularly in celebrity culture. Ms. Lohan and, more recently, Charlie Sheen are both examples of how the power of success can lead to disaster. Could Lindsay have been in better shape if she had begun wearing the bad eye sooner? Millions of followers would almost certainly concur. In any case, those who are frequently in the spotlight, such as celebrities, or those who have achieved success or have reason to be proud, should probably carry an evil amulet or talisman with them – just to be safe!

Introduction to Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud Morocco is a city located in the eastern part of Morocco, in the province of Errachidia. It is known for its date palm groves, fossil mines, and gateway to the Sahara Desert. Erfoud is also a hub for tourism and a starting point for tours and excursions into the desert.

History of Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century when it was an important stop for caravans traveling across the desert. In the 20th century, the city saw an increase in its economy due to the discovery of fossil mines and the growth of the date palm industry. Today, Erfoud is a bustling city that attracts tourists from all over the world.

Tourist Attractions in Erfoud Morocco

There are many tourist attractions in and around Erfoud that are worth visiting, including:

• The Date Palm Festival: This festival is held annually and celebrates the date palm, which is one of the city’s most important crops. During the festival, visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance, sample local foods, and see demonstrations of date harvesting and processing.

• The Fossil Mines: Erfoud is famous for its fossil mines, which are some of the best in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the mines and see first-hand the process of extracting fossils from the rock. They can also purchase fossils as souvenirs.

• The Sahara Desert: Erfoud is the perfect starting point for tours into the Sahara Desert, where visitors can experience the unique beauty of the desert and take part in activities such as camel trekking and sandboarding.

Geography of Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud is situated in the valley of Ziz, near the Atlas Mountains, and is known for its arid climate. Despite its dry conditions, the city is surrounded by lush date palm groves that provide a source of livelihood for the local population.

The economy of Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud’s economy is primarily based on agriculture and tourism. The city is one of the largest producers of dates in Morocco, and the date palm industry provides jobs for many of its residents. In addition to agriculture, the fossil mining industry is also an important part of the city’s economy, as fossils from the area are in high demand globally.

Culture in Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud has a rich cultural heritage, and its residents are proud of their traditions and history. The city is known for its traditional music, dance, and clothing, which are all an integral part of its cultural identity. Visitors can experience this rich culture by attending local festivals and events, visiting traditional markets, and meeting with local residents.

Accommodations in Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, including traditional riads, hotels, and guesthouses. Many of these options offer stunning views of the surrounding desert and the Atlas Mountains, making them popular choices for travelers. Additionally, there are several camping sites in the area for those who prefer a more immersive experience in the Sahara Desert.

Transportation in Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud is well-connected to other parts of Morocco and is easily accessible by road and air. The city is located along National Road 10, which connects it to other major cities in the region, including Fez and Marrakesh. In addition, the nearest airport is located in the city of Errachidia, which is approximately 60 km from Erfoud.

Local Festivals and Events

Erfoud is known for its vibrant cultural scene and is host to a number of festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Date Palm Festival, which celebrates the city’s most important crop, and the Erfoud Music Festival, which features traditional Moroccan music and dance. In addition, the city also hosts several other cultural events and celebrations, including the Henna Festival, the Sports Festival, and the Camel Festival.

Surrounding Areas

Erfoud is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Morocco, and there are several interesting places to visit in the area. Some of the most popular destinations include the Ziz Valley, the Tafilalt Oasis, the Rissani Market, and the Jorf Oasis. Visitors can also explore the nearby deserts, including the Tafilalt and the Tazzarine, and take part in activities such as camel trekking, sandboarding, and star-gazing.

Food and Cuisine

Erfoud is known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the city’s location and its desert surroundings. Local specialties include traditional tagines, couscous, and pastilla, as well as a variety of dishes made with dates, such as date pastries and date-based stews. Visitors to Erfoud can enjoy these dishes in local restaurants, at food stalls in the markets, or in traditional tea houses.

Natural Attractions in Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Morocco, and there are several interesting places to visit in the area. One of the most popular attractions is the Ziz Valley, which is known for its lush date palm groves and breathtaking rock formations. Visitors can also explore the nearby deserts, including the Tafilalt and the Tazzarine, and take part in activities such as camel trekking, sandboarding, and star-gazing.

Shops and Markets in Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud is home to several bustling markets and shops, and visitors can find everything from traditional crafts and souvenirs to fresh produce and spices. Some of the most popular markets include the Souk Al Had, which is known for its textiles and ceramics, and the Rissani Market, which is one of the largest markets in Morocco. In addition, there are also several shops selling traditional clothing, jewelry, and other souvenirs, making Erfoud a great place to buy gifts and mementos.

Adventure Activities in Erfoud Morocco

Erfoud is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure, and there are several activities to choose from, including camel trekking, sandboarding, and hot-air ballooning. Visitors can also explore the nearby deserts and mountains on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback. For those who prefer water sports, there are several rivers and lakes in the area, including the Ziz River and the Tinerhir Lake, which offer opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and fishing.

Outdoor Activities

Erfoud Morocco is surrounded by some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Morocco, and there are many opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the nearby deserts, including the Tafilalt and the Tazzarine, and take part in activities such as camel trekking, sandboarding, and star-gazing. In addition, there are several lakes and rivers in the area, including the Ziz River and the Tinerhir Lake, which offer opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and fishing. For those who prefer hiking and trekking, there are also several scenic trails in the area, including the Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley.

Local Culture and Traditions

Erfoud Morocco is a city steeped in culture and tradition, and visitors can experience a rich and diverse local culture. The city is home to several historic monuments, including the Rissani Ksar, the ancient city wall, and the 17th-century mosque. In addition, visitors can experience the local culture by attending traditional festivals and events, such as the Date Palm Festival, the Henna Festival, and the Camel Festival, which showcase the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Erfoud is a fascinating city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich history, bustling markets, and breathtaking desert landscapes, Erfoud is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Morocco. Whether you’re interested in fossil mining, date palms, or the Sahara Desert, Erfoud has something to offer everyone.

Best Moroccan cities: general information

Who would have believed that a vacation could be taken in Morocco? What do you know about this country, except for the fact that Morocco imports luscious tangerines from here? When you book a tour in Morocco, you will be captivated by its beauty and color. Berber, African, Arabic, and Spanish cultures were all established there. As you walk through the streets, you will see the Catholic Cathedral on one side, a mosque with a huge tower on the other, and Western Sahara beauty on the third. This fusion of cultures, as well as the stunning scenery of the Best Moroccan cities, inspired Yves Saint Laurent to create new works of art. Morocco’s beaches, which are bathed by the waters of the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas, excite travelers far more.

Morocco is located in northern Africa. On the map, it is close to Spain. Morocco is separated from Europe by the Strait of Gibraltar. The country is part of the Arab West, generally known as the Maghreb. Morocco is home to over 36 million people, with roughly 60% Arabs and 40% Berbers.

Morocco’s modern way of life is undeniably affected by its history. In the distant past, the region belonged to Carthage, then to the Roman Empire, then to the Vandals, and lastly to the Byzantines. During the Middle Ages, Morocco was absorbed into the huge Arab empire. Maritime pirates held de facto rule of the country during the 16th and 17th centuries. As a result of the conflict, the land was divided between Spain and France throughout the rest of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Morocco did not get independence until 1956. However, the exact Western Saharan border remains a historical question.

Moroccan culture, customs, and daily living all reflect such key historical events. Welcome to Morocco, and we urge you to explore this colorful country.

The Best Moroccan cities have sustained population increase. The fact that the capital is not the largest city in the country is already remarkable. The issue is that Rabat and Salé are connected by a bridge yet separated by a river. They are part of a metropolitan area with a population of 2.5 million people. The extraordinary, which covers everything from food, carpets, and handicrafts to architecture and landscapes, is why Europeans visit Morocco.

When is the best time to go to Morocco?

Determine the type of trip you want before answering the question “When is the ideal time to visit Morocco?” Summer is the busiest season for travel in Morocco. Tourists arrive at the beach. If you want to take full advantage of the Atlantic’s abundance of water, we recommend visiting in August and September. By this time, the water has warmed significantly.

Visitors travel from all over the world to the ski resort since Morocco is known as the snowiest place in Africa. If you want to climb the Atlas Mountains, come around January and February.

Morocco excursion getaways are ideal during the off-season. The temperature increases sufficiently to allow for lengthy outdoor exercise.

How can I go to Morocco the quickest?

Of course, by airplane. There are no direct flights from Novosibirsk, therefore you must change planes in Moscow. Morocco has numerous airports. Russian guests arrive on charter planes at Agadir Airport, the most well-known resort. In addition, there are frequent flights from Moscow to Casablanca and Marrakech.

Best Moroccan cities and Regions

Best Moroccan cities: Casablanca

The Spanish word for “white home” is Casablanca. Casablanca, on the Atlantic Ocean in western Morocco and adjacent to the capital Rabat, is one of the Best Moroccan cities.

In the Middle Ages, Casablanca was known as Anfa. It was entirely destroyed by the Portuguese in the fourteenth century and restored in the sixteenth. In 1755, a second earthquake devastated and rebuilt the city.

The French took control of the town in 1907. During their reign, the city began to grow rapidly and flourish. Casablanca’s new city grew up around the old one.

During World War II, American and British troops often landed in Casablanca. There were also talks between Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill.

As a result of Morocco’s independence in 1956, the French abandoned the city. Casablanca was beset by financial problems at the time. Tourism and a robust economy boosted its development.

Casablanca is the most important commercial center in North Africa. The city is linked to the rest of the globe via highways, railroads, an airline, and a massive port in one of the world’s largest man-made harbors. Casablanca is the international hub for the majority of the Best Moroccan cities.

Grains, phosphates, leather, and wool are among the items exported from Casablanca. The primary industry branches are furniture production, fishing, woodworking, and construction materials. Glass and tobacco are also thriving industries. The majority of financial transactions take place in Casablanca.

The Hassan the Second Mosque, located on Casablanca’s Atlantic coast, is the city’s principal attraction. This mosque, together with the one in Mecca, is the largest in the Muslim world. French architect Michel Pinceau designed this structure. The mosque is a cultural institution as well as a place of worship. A national museum and library are housed here.

The mosque’s design and adornment are magnificent. The roof of the mosque can be raised in three minutes, transforming the prayer hall into a patio. Murals, patterns, and Arabic inscriptions adorn the hallways. Inside the structure, up to 100,000 people can be accommodated. The Hassan the Second Mosque was erected in the twentieth century and is the most beautiful mosque ever built.

Casablanca’s bazaars merit special notice. One full block of Habbous is dedicated to market trading. A confluence of short alleys and alleyways can form a market square divided into three sections: a sweets market, an olive market, and a pottery market. There are antique shops nearby where you may buy items made of fancy textiles for incredibly low costs or taste a delightful date dessert.

The Corniche district of Casablanca is popular with nightlife enthusiasts due to its abundance of beaches, resorts, bars, and eateries.

The Pasha, Casablanca’s administrator, used to entertain guests and hear cases in the Mahakma du Pacha, a beautiful historic structure in Casablanca. Due to the exquisite interior design of the 64 halls and the abundance of decorative art in the interior courtyards, this structure has become one of the district prefectures.

Best Moroccan cities: Fez

The Moroccan city of Fez has a population of around 500,000 people. Fez and Casablanca are separated by 294 kilometers. Fez is Northern Africa’s largest and oldest city. The University of Fez, the world’s oldest, is located in the city and is well-known for it.

Idris, I established a settlement on the eastern side of the river Fez around 789. Idris II established the capital of the Idrissid state on the opposite bank of the river 20 years later. The Almoravid dynasty united the two Best Moroccan cities in the eleventh century, and by the twelfth century, Fez had grown to become the biggest metropolis in Islam. During the Berber Marinid dynasty, Fez was elevated to the position of Morocco’s capital, and various new buildings were constructed.

Fez is now divided into two sections: the ancient Fez el Bali and the new Fez el Jedid (new). The old city was built during the Middle Ages. Approximately 9,000 streets and lanes are unidentified. Some streets are so narrow that passing through them requires touching both walls.

Fez has two mosques: the Karawin Mosque, the largest in Northern Africa, and the Moulay Idris Mosque, a particularly protected sanctuary where non-Muslims and animals are not permitted. Fez is said to have 800 mosques.

Journey to Fez

Fez is one of the best imperial Moroccan cities. Fez was founded in the seventh century as a crossroads for numerous cultures. The Best Moroccan cities of today are a synthesis of their past and present. The medina of Fez (Fez el Bali) is fantastic in its complexity and size, with 14 gates, 6,000 streets, 200 mosques, and 180 hammams. Every time you turn in Fez, you must be prepared to learn something new. There are also lovely grounds and a regal home. Fez sightseeing tours are amazing. The city is not a beach resort because it is located far from the shore.

Fez is one of the best Moroccan cities to visit.

What can you do in Fez? Keep to the medina’s main thoroughfares.
The history of Fez is well known. History bestowed two medinas on the city at the same time. On any trip to Fez, it should be obligatory to stroll to both. The medina of Fez (Fez el Bali) is amazing in its complexity and size, with 14 gates, 6,000 passageways, 200 mosques, and 180 hammams. There is the world’s largest pedestrian zone. As you walk through the narrow streets, you can sense the Moroccan ambiance. A true medieval community is distinguished by old buildings, handcrafted shops, bustling markets, and residents riding donkey carts. The most important thing here is to avoid getting lost. Hire a guide to show you around the medina, stopping at the most fascinating spots. This mini-excursion will keep you entertained for three hours and will cost you five euros.

Fez Jadid is the name of a second medina in Fez. Even though it was founded in the thirteenth century, it is still seen as new. On all sides, fortifications encircle it. While strolling around the streets, you may notice Mellah’s Jewish community, the royal palace, and the kasbah Sherard (fortress).

Take in the splendor of the royal residence.

The royal palace of Fez was built in the 17th century. It now covers approximately 80 hectares. In addition to the palace, there are exquisite gardens, fountains, mosques, and Fes’s oldest school.

Because it was erected in accordance with all architectural conventions of the time, the palace in Fez shares traits with palaces found in other imperial cities. The bedrooms are lavishly furnished. Carpets are expensive, materials are natural silk, windows are stained glass, ceilings are gilded cedar, and walls are framed with Arabic mosaics.

Unfortunately, the palace is not open to the public, despite the fact that it is surrounded by seven beautiful gates in and of itself.

In the distance, you can see the Al-Qarawin University Mosque

In the ninth century, the institution initially opened its doors. This region has produced many theologians, philosophers, and thinkers who have affected Muslim and global cultural development. According to UNESCO, the university is currently the longest continuously operating educational institution. The mosque’s towering square minaret, ornate carvings, and arches reflect Moroccan architectural traditions. Although the surroundings are breathtaking, not everyone is permitted to enter. Through the open doors, you can glimpse its grandeur.

Investigate the workshops

It would be a crime not to visit a workshop in this city of artisans! The historic medina contains a number of workshops. Visit the pottery to quickly create a tagine. You can also observe the meticulous work of painters who dot their plates. Mosaic painters painstakingly cut small elements, such as a table, sink, or panel, for use in subsequent handmade paintings in other workshops.

See how leather is colored by visiting Choire’s famed tannery neighborhood.
Fez is well-known for its artisans, particularly leatherworkers. Traditional leatherworking processes have their own business dedicated to their preservation. Leather is rinsed in the paint for an extended amount of time before being left to dry outside. To begin, masters soak leather in lime baths, bird-dropping treatments, and paint. Among the dye’s all-natural ingredients are henna, turmeric, and other beneficial plants.

Stores that offer finished goods are frequently near the factories. At the door, you will be given a sprig of mint to help mask the scent of the workshops. The low cost of the products is a significant advantage. You may acquire high-quality items for a ridiculously inexpensive price here.

Visiting a local market

In the medina of Fez, both tourists and locals may shop at a variety of markets. The vitality of the Arab East can undoubtedly be felt here. You may buy keepsakes, textile and pottery items, exquisite fruit, and spices by weight at the market.
Remember to bargain. Prices can be two to three times inflated, so do not be afraid to bargain with the vendor.

Best Moroccan cities: Tangier

Tangier, is a Moroccan city near Gibraltar with a key location at the western entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, with a population of 428,000 people (1993). The Moors, who had previously built the old Roman port city of Tingis on the site, constructed the walled city that exists today during the Middle Ages. It was captured by the Portuguese in the late 15th century and delivered to Britain in 1662 as part of Princess Catherine of the Portuguese Braganza dynasty’s dowry before her marriage to King Charles II of England.

After 22 years, Britain handed up control of the city to the Moroccan Sultan family, who dominated the port and surrounding area until 1904. The city was under Moroccan authority until 1956 when it was handed over to the Sultanate. T. and its environs were later designated as a Special Zone under international law until 1956. (except for a five-year period during World War II). It was included on the newly independent Kingdom’s list of the Best Moroccan cities in 1956. T. became an “open port” in 1962 and has since grown to become an important commercial, economic, cultural, and tourism destination.

Tangier Travel

Tangier is a well-known tourist attraction in northern Morocco. Its dual exposure to the Atlantic and Mediterranean waters is what distinguishes it. Tangier’s natural beauty includes stunning beaches, cliffs, large mountain ranges, and small harbors. The Pillars of Hercules are a genuine natural wonder. The rocks were built by Hercules, according to Greek mythology. In addition to enjoying the natural beauty of the medina, tourists explore historic sites, browse in neighborhood markets, and take photos against the backdrop of gorgeous architecture. Travelers who appreciate the beach and sightseeing should consider visiting Tangier.

How can I travel to Tangier as efficiently as possible?

No nonstop flights connect Novosibirsk and Morocco. Tangier excursions begin with a stop in Moscow, followed by a journey from Casablanca to Tangier. The distance between the resorts is 340 kilometers. A railroad connects Casablanca with Tangier.

The ferry is also available from Spain. It is only 16 kilometers distant. However, you would need many Schengen visas to do so.

Tangier sightseeing

What are your alternatives in Tangier?
Hercules Cave photography
Tangier’s major natural attraction. Hercules supposedly decided to take a vacation and regain his strength here before embarking on his eleventh expedition, which required him to obtain the golden apples from the garden of the Hesperides. The grottoes are currently one of the most popular tourist spots in Morocco. The cave’s entrance has two sides, one from the sea and one from the land. Furthermore, the entry to the sea outlet is shaped like the African continent.

The cave provided a relaxing atmosphere for guests. The caves are clean and well-lit. There is also an observation deck available. It costs 5 dirhams to enter.

Tangier’s Medina

If you plan a trip to Tangier, make sure to see the medina or city center. The old city has an Arab area with many twisting lanes and a large population. As you go around the medina, you will notice mosques, old homes, luxurious homes, and, of course, a large market. You can buy spices, rugs, natural cosmetics, fabrics, lamps, and other souvenirs from Morocco. Visitors to the bazaar are amused by the sellers, snake charmers, and performers.

Climb to the kasbah’s viewing platform

The Kasbah is the medina’s principal historical attraction (fortress). It was created by the Portuguese during the 18th-century colonial era. According to historians, the foundations were laid during the Roman Empire. The fort offers breathtaking views of the old town, the sea, and the Spanish mountains. The general public is invited to the viewing decks.

Learn more about the Sultan’s Palace

A palace for the Sultan is located on the grounds of the kasbah (fortress). The palace was constructed in the 17th century for Sultan Dar al-Mahzen. The Museum of Moroccan Art and the Museum of Archaeological Antiquities are currently housed in its luxuriously wide galleries. Visitors can view artwork from all throughout Morocco in the first and ancient treasures in the second. The palace is surrounded by magnificent gardens with Moroccan-Andalusian ornamentation.

Take part in the Asilah Beach Festival.

Asilah distinguishes itself from other beaches due to its ecological and historical significance. There are relics of the Portuguese fortress walls and bastions built during their 15th-century colonization. Summer festivals, cultural activities, and musical performances are conducted on the beach, which has been turned into an outdoor theater.

Feel the 800-year-old tree.

The magnificent Mendoubia Garden, north of Tangier, is a green island home to exotic vegetation, distinctive flowers, and tall trees. Naturally, visitors are drawn to the massive, incredible dragon tree. It is 800 years old, according to locals.

Tangier’s coastline

Despite the popularity of Tangier’s beaches, we do not encourage visiting them. It’s pretty crowded, hectic, and filthy. West of Tangier, on the other hand, offers more tranquil beaches.

To enjoy the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the blazing sun, we propose staying in hotels with private beaches. Tangier beach hotels include Kenzi Solazur, Movenpick Hotel & Casino Malabata Tanger, Hotel Miramar, and Marina Bay.

Best Moroccan cities: Marrakech

Marrakech is a town in southeast Morocco near the High Atlas Mountains. The Almoravids founded it around 1070. (alternative versions say 1060 or 1062). Morocco’s capital from the eleventh through the eighteenth centuries. This ancient city, known for its Medina (old town), Casbah (fortress), and Agvedal Gardens with pavilions and lakes, is surrounded by walls with rectangular towers and gates. Medina symbols: Qubba al-Baruddin (domed pavilion, decorated with carvings of stone and stucco, – part of the palace of the unparished Almoravid, the first half of the XII century.) Hotels in Qutubiya (concrete, stone, and brick, XII century).

Kutubiya (concrete, stone, and brick, 12th century); 17 transverse and one longitudinal nave, domes with stalactites, artesunate; Ben Salih with minaret (stone, 1184-99); Bab Dukkala (1557); Ben Youssef Madrassah (1565); and Zawiya Sid (1894-1900; garden). Mosque (1197), a necropolis with tombs from the second half of the 16th century, Bab-Agvenau (gate; 12th century, carved stone decoration), Badi (1578-93; in ruins), and Dar el-Makhzen palaces are also close (late 19th century; garden). Around 1913, the contemporary city was built to the west of the medina. Carpet weaving, stone carving, and other crafts have long been prevalent in Marrakesh. The Museum of Moroccan Art and the Museum of Treasures and Ceramics are two museums located in the late-nineteenth-century Dar Said palace. The remains of the 12th-century Tasgimut Fortress may be found 30 kilometers southeast of Marrakech.

Holiday in Marrakech

Marrakech is also one of the best imperial Moroccan cities. Gardens, mosques, and historic Arab-African architecture are all well-known aspects of Marrakech. If you plan a trip to Marrakech, you will undoubtedly recall Scheherazade’s fairy stories. Visit the majestic palaces, beautiful gardens, markets brimming with bright merchandise, and the ambiance of the East. Excursions are possible in Marrakech. The city is not a beach resort because it is located a long distance from the shore.

How should I travel to Marrakech?

1. No nonstop flights connect Novosibirsk and Morocco. Siberian visitors can travel to Morocco via Moscow.
2. There are various options for getting from Moscow to Marrakech.
3. From Moscow, you may fly directly to Marrakech.
4. After taking a direct trip to Agadir, drive to Marrakech. The distance between the resorts is 250 kilometers. You have three options: a bus, a rented car, or a transfer.
5. Take a direct flight to Casablanca, then a car to Marrakech. The resorts are 240 kilometers apart.
6. You have three options: a bus, a rented car, or a transfer.
7. Marrakech’s Attractions
8. Marrakech is not a holiday location in the sense that you will not be staying for an extended period of time. Yes, culture shock can occur in this magnificent city. As you drive throughout the neighborhood, you’ll observe majestic palaces, lush gardens, boutiques brimming with vividly colored merchandise, mosques, and old buildings. You merely need to make a short trip from your resort to Marrakech for one to three days to see the sights.

What should you do in Marrakech?

Explore the medina on foot.
The medina is without a doubt the beating heart of Marrakech. If you’re on a tour to Marrakech, make it a point to walk here. The ancient city contains an Arab district with many twisting pathways and dense architecture. To resist invasions, the medina’s perimeter was built with 9-meter-high fortress walls around 1000 years ago. By the way, the medina was added to the UNESCO list of cultural heritage sites in 1985.
As you walk through the ancient city, you’ll notice that most of the buildings are made of red clay. As a result, the Red City moniker was given to Marrakech’s medina. As a result, Marrakech’s medina is known as the “Red City.” Day and night, there is constant activity here. Artists create gifts, business owners compete to attract visitors, and snake charmers wait for their audience. Jem el-Fna Square is the medina’s magnet.

While in Djema el-Fna Square, you are transported to an eastern fairy tale

The major square of Marrakech is recognized for its atmosphere and ability to attract tourists. The square is both historically significant and part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The “square of beheadings” got its name because thieves and criminals were killed here in the 10th century, often as many as 50 per day. The gates had their heads attached to them.

The pleasant present stands in stark contrast to the horrific past. Jem el-Fna Square is currently the busiest location in town. During the day, souvenir vendors sell their items, but at night, the area is turned into an outdoor theater, with performances by sword swallowers, acrobats, snake handlers, artists, odd dancers, snake tamers, and other entertainers. You’ve entered a Chinese fairy tale. You could enjoy a good and reasonable bite here as the site transforms into a large food court.

According to visitors, the site is unique. The stress of the barkers is one thing, but the unusual mood of the plaza is what draws tourists.

The Majorelle Garden served as a source of inspiration

The garden can be found in Marrakech. This garden served as Jacques Majorelle’s workshop throughout the early half of the twentieth century. The painter, who also enjoyed collecting plants, returned from his excursions with rare Asian lotuses and cacti from North America and Mexico. To contrast with the vegetation, Jacques Majorelle painted the features of the villas and pergolas a bright lemon color and the walls a beautiful blue tint. As a result, this color palette became distinctive to the park. The garden was left unfinished after the artist’s death.

Later, the property was purchased by the famed French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his companion Pierre Bergé. The house had been cleaned. Visitors can now take in the beautiful views, ponder nature, take photos against the vivid blue walls, and shop Yves Saint Laurent’s personal treasures. The garden appears to be a small slice of heaven, but be warned: you can walk around it in 20 minutes if you want to. The museum charges 30 dirhams, while the Majorelle Garden charges 70 dirhams.

A variety of marketplaces in Marrakech’s medina are open to both tourists and residents. The vitality of the Arab East is palpable here. The market sells spices by weight, as well as a delicious fruit, linens, and pottery. Click here to read more about the items offered in Morocco.
Remember to haggle. Prices can be two to three times inflated, so do not be afraid to haggle with the dealer.

Investigate the Bahia Palace

Bou Ahmed Sidi Moussa, Grand Vizier of the Moulay Hasan and Moulay Abd al-Aziz monarchs, erected the palace for one of the harem’s four women. During the construction phase, the area grew to eight hectares. Four wives and twenty-four concubines once lived here. The materials for the ornamentation were brought in from all around Morocco, and the palace was magnificently ornamented as envisioned. Interior design components such as hardwood doors, painted ceilings, excellent stone carvings, and traditional mosaics create an affluent environment. The surrounding region is likewise well-kept; lovely courtyards are shrouded in foliage. Surprisingly, once the palace was finished, the Sultan even envied the Vizier since the harem had grown to be the most elegant in all of Morocco. You’ll understand why when you see the palace.

Stay in a Moroccan-style hotel when visiting Marrakech. Many classic Maghreb homes with patios and gardens are being utilized as hotels. These rooms are accessible at any price because hotel quality varies. The “three” is intended for casual travelers, while the “five” is appropriate for individuals who value comfort and level of service.

Marrakech is also home to La Mamounia, Morocco’s most luxurious hotel. It resembles a true oriental palace. The presence of members of the royal family demonstrates its prominence.

For those on a strict budget, we recommend visiting the “four,” which include the Golden Tulip Rawabi and Riad Mogador Kasbah.

Liberty Travel’s managers will assist you in selecting a trip to Marrakech and the best hotels in the city based on your interests.

Best Moroccan cities: Agadir

The most popular beach resort in Morocco. The Atlantic Ocean washes the beaches of Agadir, which are surrounded by beautiful sand. The beachfront is approximately 6 kilometers long. There are hotels in Agadir to suit every taste and budget, from a five-star luxury hotel with thalassotherapy amenities to a modest “three” for those with less refined tastes. The high level of service is due to the huge number of Europeans present. The majority of hotels are located along the second coastline. The resort is ideal for both surfers looking to catch a wave and others who like relaxing beach vacations.

Vacations in Agadir

Agadir is a well-known seaside resort and one of the most beautiful Moroccan cities. The beaches of Agadir, which are washed by the Atlantic Ocean, have golden sand. The seashore stretches for around 6 kilometers. There are hotels in Agadir to suit every taste and budget, from a five-star luxury hotel with thalassotherapy amenities to a plain three-star hotel for travelers with less refined tastes. Because there are so many Europeans there, the service is excellent. The majority of hotels are located along the second coastline. The resort is ideal for both surfers looking to catch a wave and others who like relaxing beach vacations.

Attractions in Agadir

Because Agadir’s beaches are its main draw, the majority of the entertainment takes place outside of the resort. Booking a vacation to Agadir in the south of Morocco provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the country’s culture and history.

If you don’t feel like stepping out, you may enjoy Agadir’s beaches, ocean waves, windsurfing, walking tours, nightlife, wonderful seafood, horseback riding, golfing, and thalassotherapy treatments.

So, what should you do in Agadir?

Take a tour of the Best Moroccan cities.
Agadir lacks the old city that draws visitors to Fez and Marrakech. There are, however, other attractions to see here. You can walk around the city’s streets and boulevards while also visiting the park “The Valley of Birds” in the center. The bulk of the creatures in this tiny zoo are birds, such as pink flamingos, swans, peacocks, and parrots. Relax on one of the benches located among the trees. Kids can play in the sandbox. The park has no admission fee.

The Lubnan Mosque is also located in the city center (Lebanon). Despite being totally rebuilt following the 1960 earthquake, it has a highly conventional appearance. The mosque is wonderful and gives the residents enormous pride. The towering minaret is covered with ceramic mosaics. The mosque can only be admired from the outside because it is not open to foreign tourists.

Souk el-Had is a city market and a shopaholic’s dream. The most important thing is to avoid getting lost among the 6,000 stores. The market is enormous, ranking third in Africa. You can buy pottery, textiles, leather goods, spices, and other items as gifts for yourself and your loved ones here. Remember to bargain.

Head to the Marina to see the marina and Agadir’s most beautiful location. This region is located at the base of Agadir’s famed mountain, which has the phrase “God, King, Fatherland.” The area’s construction began in 2007. The homes are the Marina’s “crown jewel” because they are situated in such a way that a boat can reach them immediately.

Tourists are lured to the Marina by its scenic backdrop of an azure sky, azure lake, countless ships, and coastal wind. Fresh fish is offered in a variety of supermarkets and restaurants.

Return to the beach or the ocean in the evening. Locals and visitors alike stroll about and enjoy the scenery. Visit the Ferris wheel on the waterfront to see a lovely sunset.

Try to catch a wave

Water sports enthusiasts flock to Agadir’s shoreline. The ocean’s waves are tremendously beneficial to surfers. If you’ve always wanted to, go ahead and try it. You can try water skiing, surfing, or windsurfing.

Discos allow you to dance all night long.

When the lights are flashing, you can dance in Agadir’s clubs. Boulevard du 20 Aout, which is packed with cafes, pubs, and clubs, is a terrific site to start your night out. L’Actors, one of Agadir’s most well-known clubs, is also located on this street (Royal Atlas Hotel). The club holds events with the most trendy DJs, thanks to its wide dance floor and beautiful lights.

The majority of clubs are housed within enormous hotels.

Parties often begin at 1:30 a.m.

Entry costs about 100 Moroccan dirhams. A typical alcoholic beverage costs 130 dirhams in a club.

Also saw crocodiles.

It is advisable to visit the crocodile farm when in Agadir on vacation. This activity will appeal to both adults and children. The property is exquisitely furnished, right down to the entryway, which is shaped like an alligator’s mouth. There are approximately 300 crocodiles in this location. It’s difficult to picture! Tourists adore watching these magnificent creatures sunbathe on hot summer days. The crocodiles are fed at noon, 1:00, 5:00, and 7:00 p.m. They are fed at the stroke of midnight. There is also a crocodile research lab where visitors may view the displays. The park concludes with a cactus garden filled with gigantic cacti, tortoises, and curious iguanas. It’s as though you’re in the desert. The park takes two to three hours to explore.

Perhaps thalassotherapy will help you relax.

Thalassotherapy, a healing treatment, uses seawater, seaweed, and other sea ingredients. Morocco has a comprehensive range of thalassotherapy programs, including blood circulation courses, face, and body care, post-natal recovery, post-operative and post-traumatic courses, general recovery treatments, and more.

At least three variables make the best Moroccan cities ideal for thalassotherapy. First, European advances lasted through colonial authority. Second, these European technologies are significantly more affordable outside of Europe. By the way, superstars from all over the world come here to rest. Third, all of the components used in the processes are of the highest quality. The use of sea air boosts the advantages of the operations.

There are numerous options available, but it is critical to remember that the conclusion is much better if the correct road is selected. The most popular therapies are lymph drainage, algotherapy (a seaweed treatment), underwater showers, hammam + gommage (a marine clay treatment), and wraps.

Agadir Beaches

The majority of visitors to Agadir come for the sandy beaches. The Atlantic Ocean washes Agadir’s sand beaches. The temperature of the ocean will be lower than that of the Mediterranean Sea. The average summer temperature of the water is +21 degrees. The ocean’s entrance is generally smooth, making it ideal for family holidays.

Given Agadir’s 10-kilometer-long shoreline, there is plenty of room for everyone. The nicest beaches in Morocco may be found in Tamounza (12 kilometers from Agadir), Imuran (17 kilometers), Tagazou (20 kilometers), Timzgida (23 kilometers), and Agroud (24 kilometers) (30 km).

Taghazout Beach is a surfer’s and photographer’s paradise. While the former favor it for the strong waves, the latter appreciate it for the gorgeous photo opportunities provided by the rocks that surround the beach.

On Agadir’s beaches, everyone is free to do whatever they like, including toddlers playing on the sand and parents relaxing in the sun (surfing, sailing, kite surfing, and paragliding). The ocean provides great circumstances for these sports in Agadir’s central and southern districts. Anchor, Banana, Imsuan Bay, Devils Rock, Cro, Hash, and Killer all have great surf and reefs.

A promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes stretches along Agadir’s seashore. You can wander here at dusk to see the sunset.

The directors of the travel service “Liberty Travel” can assist you in finding a tour to Agadir and selecting the best hotels there.

Best Moroccan cities: Meknes

A city that ranks among the top three imperial Moroccan cities. Because it is not a beach resort, the city is not a popular tourist destination. The majority of visitors arrive in Meknes by tour. Come here if you have the time and want to learn about Arab culture. Meknes is separated into two parts: the medina, which contains ancient structures including palaces, mausoleums, and old buildings, and the new portion, which contains cafes, restaurants, and gift shops. Golfing on the royal grounds is another luxurious amenity that Meknes has to offer. Close to Meknes are the well-known Volubilis Roman remains, which are designated as a UNESCO cultural heritage.

How am I going to get to Meknes?

No nonstop flights connect Novosibirsk and Morocco. Siberian visitors can travel to Morocco via Moscow.

Take a direct flight from Casablanca to Meknes. The resorts are 240 kilometers apart. You have three options: a bus, a rented car, or a transfer.

Meknes is also accessible by train from Casablanca and other Best Moroccan cities.

Meknes Attractions

Tourist excursions in Meknes are unpopular due to a lack of accommodations. It is more peaceful than other resorts, and the splendor of old structures may be viewed. Spend one or two days in Meknes and take a tour to see everything.

What should you do in Meknes?

Explore the medina on foot.
The medina is without a doubt Meknes’ pulsing heart. The main attractions can be found here. If you plan a trip to Meknes, don’t forget to stop by the medina. The ancient town contains an Arab section with many twisting passageways and tightly squeezed dwellings. The medina is surrounded by a 10-meter stone wall with corner towers that were built to resist Berber attacks. The Bab el-Mansour Gate leads to the medina. The stunning gate, which contains excellent stucco work and mosaic patterns, is already a popular tourist attraction. They are now regarded as Morocco’s most stunning gates. They were built in the 18th century.

As you stroll through the ancient city, you will notice that many historical sites have been conserved. Meknes was formerly home to the great Sultan Moulay Ismail. During his rule, many mansions, gardens, and mosques were built. Meknes is known as the “city of a thousand minarets” due to its abundance of mosques. Non-Muslims are not permitted inside mosques, even though they may observe from the outside. The Great Mosque, with its wonderfully carved doors, is Meknes’ most well-known mosque. The mosque and the Madrasa Bu Inania are nearby. It was built in a striking, airy Spanish-Moorish style.

The medina also has well-known palaces. Dar Jamai Palace was constructed in the late nineteenth century in the finest Moorish style. The structure is embellished with mosaic and tile tiles, as well as festooned arches. The mansion is encircled by a beautiful garden with orange and cypress trees. The palace now houses an ethnography museum. Visitors can learn about common objects as well as embossing and vintage jewelry. El Mansour, another palace, has become a popular tourist site.

The Kheri es-Suani cluster of medieval structures is another notable Meknes medina feature. It has grain bins, stables, and an Agdal pond. Previously, around 12,000 horses were housed in these stables, and slaves were used to powering the waterworks’ wheels. After a full day of sightseeing, you could take a moment to gaze over the water of Agdal Pond.

The Medina’s focal point is El Khedim Square, which works as a magnet. In the evening, the area is transformed into an outdoor theater, complete with snake trainers, artists, dancers performing odd dances, acrobats, fire swallowers, and much more. During the day, vendors sell merchandise. a sense of being dragged into an eastern fairy tale. You may also enjoy wonderful meals at low prices as the venue transforms into a large food court.

Visit the famed Volubilis ruins

Even if you are wary about archaeological sites, Volubilis is worth a visit. It is an ancient African island. Founded in the third century B.C., the city eventually became a part of the Roman Empire in the first century A.D. An aqueduct brought water to the city’s residents, and Volubilis was built in a certain pattern. The city thrived as a result of grain and oil trading. Volubilis eventually deteriorated due to the Arab conquest (7th century) and the earthquake (18th century).

Volubilis and Meknes are 30 kilometers apart. Despite the fact that most of the third-century Roman structures have been demolished, there are still columns, a basilica, a triumphal arch, and some 30 beautiful mosaics. When it comes to mosaics, these are extremely spectacular. The precise craftsmanship that has lasted the test of time continues to enchant visitors and historians. The mosaics depicting Hercules’ 12 actions and the four seasons are the most magnificent and well-known.

Prepare a traditional supper

Meknes is home to the vast bulk of Morocco’s catering industry. A variety of cuisines are offered for sampling at reasonable prices. If you want to completely experience Moroccan culture and discover why it tastes so great, enroll in a master class at the Taste of The Best Moroccan cities cooking school. You will make delectable delights with the help of a chef. Each participant must pay 450 Moroccan dirhams for the master class.

Shop at the local markets.

Meknes’ medina features several markets. The vitality of the Arab East is palpable here. Souvenirs, textile and pottery items, embossed jewelry, and spices by weight are available on the market. Click here to read more about the items offered in Morocco. Costs in the nearby city of Fez are slightly lower, but keep in mind that prices reduce as you travel further into the market.

Don’t be afraid to haggle with the seller because pricing may be inflated by a factor of two or three.

Best Moroccan cities: Rabat

Morocco’s capital has the most beautiful cities. The city is located on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. Day trips are ideal in Rabat. There are numerous attractions to see, including the royal palace, the Kasbah Udaja fortress, the Hassan Minaret, and the medieval medina. Most Russian visitors to Rabat stay for a few days to sightsee.

Best Moroccan cities: El Jadida

Vacations in El Jadida

The port city of El Jadida is located on the outskirts of the Atlantic Ocean. Casablanca is 90 kilometers away. El Jadida vacations are appealing due to the coastline: the beaches are surrounded by golden sand, and the ocean is tranquil and calm. El Jadida is known for its ancient stronghold, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The four bastions that once kept guard over the town have also been totally restored. El Jadida is ideal for beach and sightseeing visits. You can also go golfing, horseback riding, cruises, or wine tasting.

Where is El Jadida?

No nonstop flights connect Novosibirsk and Morocco. Travelers from Siberia prefer Moscow as their entryway to the best Moroccan cities; you may fly directly to Casablanca and then take a train to El Jadida. The distance between the resorts is 106 kilometers.
Other possibilities for travelling to El Jadida include Agadir and Rabat.
Vacation locations in El Jadida

What are your options in El Jadida?

El Jadida’s biggest draw is its beaches. They are the reason people come here. The resort, on the other hand, is home to a number of significant historical landmarks, and the regional architecture is remarkable in that it incorporates elements of European, Eastern, and African civilizations.

Visit the El Jadida Citadel.

The medieval stronghold of El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the town’s distinctive feature. Without a doubt, this is a must-see citadel. The citadel, which was erected in 1514, was designed by the de Arruda brothers. Later, the area saw the construction of numerous chapels and churches. Because it has survived multiple tragedies, the fortress has undergone numerous modifications. For example, the Portuguese wrecked the governor’s bastion and part of the wall by staging a large explosion at the main gate. The four remaining bastions of the citadel are St. Sebastian, St. Antoine, Angel, and St. Spirit. The cisterns and the Catholic Church of the Assumption are older structures (XVI century).

View the cisterns where the freshwater is stored.
El Jadid’s water cisterns are world-renowned. Admission is ten dirhams, and it is near the medina. It is square in shape, with three halls and four spherical towers. A light beam shines through the aperture into the great hall, which is designed in the Gothic style. There is a tiny layer of water on the floor to provide a subtle play. The interiors of the flats attracted filmmakers, and they occasionally used them as locations for sequences in films such as Othello.

El Jadida’s medina is visited

El Jadida, like every other Moroccan city, features a medina, or ancient town, in the heart. The history, customs, and way of life of the residents are mirrored throughout the medina. It captures the exoticism that makes the best Moroccan cities appealing to tourists: small streets, antique buildings, colorful residences, and the citadel’s huge walls. The ancient town is not opulent; on the contrary, everything is extremely straightforward. Because the medina is small, a few hours should suffice.

Examine marine urchins

El Jadida’s port city is widely known for its fish and seafood. As a result, it is highly advised that you visit a local restaurant and sample some of the dishes cooked with the freshest seafood, sea urchins, and sardines.

El Jadida’s sands

Tourists are lured to the resort’s beachfront because of the beaches’ golden sand and the calm, beautiful ocean waves. The resort is located well away from the somewhat long shoreline. Locals and visitors alike go to the city’s beaches during the summer to take advantage of all the city have to offer. Visitors come from as far away as Casablanca, Tangier, and Marrakech to see this sight. You must be ready for this.

If you want a more secluded getaway, go to Sidi Kouafi lighthouse or Sidi Bouzid beach, both 2 kilometers southwest of El Jadida.

If you want to unwind, look for hotels with their own beach. For example, a 7-kilometer stretch of sandy beach and a brand-new, large 5-star hotel, Mazagan Beach Resort, is located 17 kilometers north of El Jadida. Have no idea which hotel to book? Please contact us; our representatives will assist you in selecting a Morocco trip and the best El Jadida hotels.

Best Moroccan cities: Essaouira

Essaouira vacation

Essaouira is a little port city on the Atlantic coast. Vacations at the beach and in Essaouira. The resort boasts two magnificent beaches where you can sunbathe and swim all day. Windsurfers will have a good time riding the ocean waves. The architecture of the ancient town captures many centuries of history. Tourists and filmmakers alike are lured to the lovely community. In the HBO television series “Game of Thrones,” Essaouira is represented as the city of Astapor in the Slave Bay, where Daenerys acquires slaves for her army.

The resort will delight you with the freshest seafood obtained locally, as well as the beaches and historical landmarks.

Things to Do in Essaouira

So, what should you do in Essaouira?
Explore the medina on foot.
Essaouira, like another Moroccan city, features a medina, or ancient town, in the heart of the city. A stroll through the Medina is a must for visitors to Essaouira. It reflects the history, customs, and way of life of the population. The exoticism that makes Morocco so appealing is focused on the fortress’ high walls, old monuments, colorful dwellings, and winding alleyways. There is no splendor in the ancient town; instead, everything is fairly plain. If there’s a potential of a light storm, we recommend climbing the fortress wall because the view is spectacular. Spend at least one day touring the medina, which should include strolls, a trip to the fish market, a lunch, multiple coffee breaks, and photo opportunities.

Visit the port.

The port is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s not exactly picturesque, but it’s undeniably colorful. The harbor of Essaouira is a neat tangle. Everyone is drawn to the grungy but intriguing locale, from perfectionists in polished tennis shoes to glossy Instagram ladies in white sneakers. Little new technology, a lot of human labor, and content fishermen appear to have remained constant since the late 16th century.

Consume some fish

A great mistake would be to visit Essaouira and not try the seafood. The best seafood is served. It’s available in one of the restaurants. There’s also a fish market where you may eat freshly caught fish right in front of you.

Surf

There are great waves and winds for individuals who prefer water sports such as surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and yachting. It’s really popular here. The best surfing spots, according to locals, are about 25 kilometers away at Moulay and Sidi Kaouki, though you may go surfing or learn to surf on the beach in Essaouira. If you wish to learn how to surf, contact one of the resort’s surf schools. They’re all over this place.

Those in Essaouira

Essaouira’s beaches have a long shoreline, a smooth sea entrance, Atlantic waves, and golden sand. As a port city, it boasts a thriving seaside community. Water sports enthusiasts will like the calm waves and wind, but those searching for a peaceful break may find it difficult. Remember this when planning your trip.

Essaouira has two notable beaches. Taggart is the first to the left of the medina. The second is about 20 minutes from the medina (on the right). During the summer, the beaches are bordered by a range of amenities that provide travelers with comfort.

Please contact us for additional information about the best Moroccan cities.

Hand of Fatima

The talisman “Hand of Fatima” talisman has been known since ancient times, particularly among the people of the Eastern and Muslim countries. The sign is also referred to as the “Hand of Miriam”, “Hamsa”, “Palm of Hamesh,” and the Turkish eye. Since ancient times, a talisman has been used to attract happiness. As a result, it is important to grasp what it represents and how to wear it properly.

The origins of Hand of Fatima name

This emblem is the best protection against the evil eye and negative ideas in the East, and it gives peace to the owner’s life. People have been afraid of the evil eye since antiquity. The amulet is intended to protect the owner from the evil eye and to absorb the hit.

The sign of the open hand now has a specific meaning. He brings together all of the world’s religions, demonstrating the unity of all peoples and beliefs. The sign demonstrates the existence of a single origin for all world faiths. It is seen as a symbol of world unity and peace.

Hand of Fatima resembles

Fatima’s hand resembles an open palm with three fingers joined together, and the pinky and thumb are identical. The talisman holds enormous significance in various faiths, particularly Judaism and Islam. The amulet existed long before these religions, but it was they who made it famous. In Arabic, the word “Hamsa” signifies “five.” Each religion that mentions the amulet associates it with religious laws or rules. The symbol of the open hand is closely related with the feminine and holds the meaning of the holy lady, who is Fatima in Islam, Miriam in Judaism, and the Virgin Mary in Christianity.

Muslims have a narrative concerning the talisman’s genesis. It narrates the story of the prophet Muhammad’s daughter. Fatima was preparing halwa (food) over the fire when her husband Ali entered the house with a second young wife. Men of the Muslim faith are permitted to have more than one wife. Fatima dropped the spoon with which she was using to stir the dish, but was amazed that she didn’t notice and proceeded to stir the boiling food with her bare hand, despite being scorched by the heat.

Fatima’s mental agony and pain outweighed her physical afflictions. Ali, horrified by Fatima’s feelings, abandoned his young bride and remained true to his first wife for the rest of his life. Since then, Hand of Fatima has been seen as a sign of patience, hope, resilience, and conquering challenges in life. Fatima’s charms were also thought to represent patience, hope, and endurance in the face of adversity. As a result, the amulet possesses healing properties.

The talisman is used to decorate homes in Muslim countries, and it is the most powerful charm for home protection. Gold and silver engravings feature the image of an open palm. According to legend, a dwelling protected by the amulet will never catch fire.

The Jewish faith associates the genesis of the talisman with Miriam, the prophet Moses’ sister. The amulet is embellished with an image of an open eye, signifying God’s eye, in accordance with religious canons. The name “Hamsa” is derived from the Aramaic word “Hamsha,” which translates as “five” and represents the five holy books of the Torah.

The sign of the open hand can be found in many religious paintings in Orthodoxy. The artwork is highly similar of the Christian amulet “Hand of God. It protects wanderers and frequently appears out of the clouds at times of bad weather and adversity. Signs of confidence in God and the Holy Trinity frequently emerge in the sky in Christianity. Hamsa protects travelers and directs them to the right way. The Hand of God (the outline of God’s hand) came in the sky and blessed those who live on Earth, according to mythology. Many Orthodox priests reject the emblem, believing that the believer can only defend the cross. The faith’s priests restrict parishioners from wearing any amulets other than the cross.

A general overview of The symbol

There are numerous variations of the cross image on the Internet. An open palm with symmetrical thumb and little finger connects them. To increase the magical power of the base, each faith adds its own symbols:

• The open eye a six-pointed star
• A crescent moon, and a star
• Several ancient writings

The most frequently encountered symbol on the “Hand of Fatima” is the open eye. It boosts the amulet’s protecting abilities. It is thought that the open eye reflects negative energy directed towards the user. And ancient characters and prayer lines are more commonly found on the reverse side of the hand (closer to the body).

Khamsa is traditionally done in blue (blue) colors to increase the protective energy. Muslims frequently embellish their amulets with semi-precious and valuable stones in blue or sky colors. There are also khamsa that have been coated with reflective enamel or another type of special mirror coating. This is thought to improve the amulet’s defensive qualities.

Precious or semi-precious stones might be chosen based on the wearer’s zodiac sign.

Hand of Fatima Meaning

The talisman’s fundamental meaning is patience, humility, and faith in the future. Some people believe that khamsa can help you find the proper way, overcome obstacles, and attain inner harmony. The open palm represents the proper road and prosperity in business.

Because talismans are utilized in different religions, their worth changes according to legends and customs. We can even say that the magical power of the sign is chosen by the individual. Each country adds its own elements to the talisman, giving it unique meaning.

The open palm represents a person who has developed all of his five senses and has disclosed his sixth sense, intuition. The sign is not symmetrical for no reason and does not replicate the actual shapes of the human palm. The symmetry of the amulet represents the wearer’s inner world’s harmony with the external surroundings. The five senses (fingers) working in tandem aid in learning about the world and oneself.

Five fingers indicate a happy family in Islam. The family values all of their fingers equally, and they love and support one another. Together, they can withstand any adversity, including nasty looks and backbiting.

Slavs and Old Believers used to decorate their homes with a palm leaf, “Hamsa,” which is said to protect the home and family. To protect the family from the evil eye, the figure was drawn over the front door. Nonetheless, talismans are more common among eastern peoples. It is very uncommon among Slavs.

Hand of Fatima for females

The hand of Fatima is traditionally regarded as a female amulet. For women, the emblem represents harmony and concord in the family, as well as tranquillity in the house. Women in the East decorate their homes with the talisman, hoping to protect their families and marriages from jealous people and foes. Unmarried girls wear “Hamsu” in the hope of finding a suitable husband. Pregnant ladies amulet will protect against spoiling, ease birthing, and promote maternal and child health. Amulets assist men in igniting love and passion in their hearts and in remaining faithful to their wives. Couple amulets at spouses aid in the formation of partnerships and the maintenance of marital happiness.

Hand of Fatima for males

In general, it is believed in the East that the “Hand of Fatima” is just for women and can only help them. Men’s amulets can be useful in the car. He will indicate the correct route, avoid accidents and other issues on the road, and defend the vehicle from theft.

Talisman improves men’s sense of duty for their families and children, bestowing wisdom to the head of the household. The sign guards against bad external influences and encourages career advancement or business development.

Activation and Charging

A new talisman has no power unless it is activated. It will be nothing more than a decoration. It is important to charge the ornament and activate its magical powers before it may begin to function. If you buy a talisman on your own, handle it in your hands at first. It is preferable if you sense a connection to the amulet. Then its strength will be multiplied many times over.

The amulet and its defensive properties can be charged in two ways. The first option is more popular, although it is more complicated. The second option is less difficult but less popular.

• The first method requires gathering all four elements – earth, water, air, and fire. Talisman is immersed in water, then passed through the flame of a candle (ideally red). basically Then the smoke from the flame, and finally buried with earth (or sand). It is vital to visualize the amulet’s power throughout all actions.
• The sequence of events is not required. During each action, the words “I activate you with air (fire, earth, or water) in accordance with the element” must be said. Following that, say a prayer.

• The second method is more straightforward. Take hold of the talisman. Recite a prayer while holding it over a lit candle. During the prayer, picture the protection energy filling the amulet and surrounding the bearer. It is vital to beg the amulet for protection and assistance during the prayer. There are many different types of prayers, but their intent is the same; the key thing is to believe in their power and assistance. The talisman only starts working after it has been charged with protective energy.

Carrying Methods and Rules

The amulet is best worn as a necklace pendant or as a bracelet on the left hand. The main criterion is touch with the owner’s skin, which intensifies the talisman’s function.

Wearing a talisman is also not subject to any religious restrictions or prohibitions. Amulets can be worn as jewelry (pendant, bracelet, earrings, or ring), as embroidery on garments or as a beaded brooch, as a keychain for house or car keys, or as a tattoo in the shape of an open palm. Many people like to wear an amulet in the form of a necklace pendant made of silver or gold and embellished with beautiful stones.

On the left hand, a silver “Hamsa” on a crimson thread will shield from the evil eye, while on the right, it will aid in finding the right path and achieving inner harmony.

A tattoo of Hand of Fatima is best placed on the back between the shoulder blades. Of course, provided it does not infringe religious canons, you can get a tattoo on your neck, wrist, or leg. The tattoo “Hamsa” is popular in Hinduism and among Indian tribes. The back tattoo defends against attacks from behind (from the back).

Wearing “Hamsa” was officially prohibited for Orthodox Christians until the XVI century. Later, church leaders announced that Christians could wear the hand emblem if they had complete faith in the power of the amulet, with which the Orthodox endowed it (protection on the road and an indication of the right road) Christians cannot wear the amulet with a cross. advocates of the “Hamsa” say that it should be worn because it originated in Jerusalem and was originally lit in the Temple of the Holy Sepulchre. As a result, Christians can wear it. However, you should not wear an amulet alongside a body cross, as the Orthodox cross protects you from all kinds of harm. Other amulets (including signs of the zodiac) are also considered pagan symbols.

Wearing this charm on the left hand brings the feminine into play. It bestows knowledge, mercy, sympathy for others, restraint, and loyalty on the possessor. When Wearing on the right hand enhances male vitality, aids in work, and contributes to the owner’s and his family’s material wealth.

The image of the sign can be used as a wall decoration in the home. Hamsa images can be used to embellish furniture or textiles (curtains, plaid, etc.). There are no hard and fast laws in this regard.

The direction of the fingers is the same in all religions (up or down). Both have a protecting quality. Esotericists, on the other hand, connect a palm pointed upwards with protective power. When an adult wears the “Hand of Fatima,” he is guided in the right course and is given strength and faith. The talisman protects little children and teenagers against evil ideas and the evil eye.

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It found out that Casablanca in Morocco was a highly diversified, odd, and unpleasant-smelling city with almost no pleasant sidewalks or any greenery. Even the main streets of the city do not smell like anise and lavender, as they do throughout the entire Mediterranean, so it is difficult for me to picture what scents prevail there. I have never been to the Casablanca slums; I have only seen them from a taxi.

Thus, despite its drawbacks and the fact that it may be lived in a 5-star hotel, Casablanca in Morocco nevertheless has a feeling of being in a third-world nation. the one where it is dangerous to travel alone, to grin and to hold up a camera in public.

The general atmosphere Casablanca in Morocco is considerably more ominous. Both on the streets and on the roadways, people behave in an erratic and unpredictable manner. A visitor from Europe would perceive a mood and atmosphere that are almost pre-war in nature.

Even Casablanca in Morocco is the most advanced and European city in Africa, it is difficult to picture what goes on in the south or the heart of the continent on the seemingly normal-looking but hazardous streets.

Also worth noting is that the concepts of “cultural shock” and “acclimatization” are not at all relevant to this review. There is no way to anticipate or come to terms with Casablanca’s reputation as a filthy, disorderly, nasty, and uncivilized city. In addition, there is a “honeymoon” period, when a new place seems exciting and hopeful, in the very idea of “cultural shock.” The odors on every street of Casablanca in Morocco, on the other hand, are so overpowering that they immediately fill you with a wave of unease and physical pain.

After the trip, you’ll find it’s impossible to psychologically compare Casablanca in Morocco to any other resort, such as Antalya or Nice. The worlds of Europe and the Middle East are so distinct from one another that they even appear to be on different planets.

Another drawback is that English isn’t widely spoken in Morocco because it’s mostly a French and Spanish-speaking country.

Getting there

Although there are other ways to get from any country to Casablanca, Morocco, the plane was and continues to be the quickest and most practical option. We therefore have the following choices before us:

• through a connecting flight in Europe (starting at 130 EUR);
• by Royal Air Maroc’s direct flight departing from Sheremetyevo (starting at 200 EUR);
• by boat through Algeciras-Tangiers (30 EUR + bus) from Spain.

By air

Flying from Moscow with a connection in one of the European cities—Istanbul, Lisbon, Milan, or Madrid—is the simplest method to get to Casablanca. Royal Air Maroc offers direct flights from Sheremetyevo as well, however they are typically more expensive than connections. Casablanca has its own airport, Mohammed V International Airport (CMN).

From Moscow, possible connecting flights

• Turkish Airlines operates the most comfortable flights to Casablanca from Moscow at any time of the year, departing from Vnukovo airport via Istanbul. It costs between $150 and $250 USD. It takes 11 hours to get there.
• White Airways Portugal offers a second convenient route from Domodedovo with fares starting at 200 USD with a stopover in Lisbon. It takes 10 hours to get there.
• With prices starting at 200 USD and a 9-hour flight length, you can fly from Domodedovo with Royal Air Macroc + Air Italy with a connection in Milan.
• Iberia and Royal Maroc flights via Madrid are also available from Domodedovo. It will take 16 hours to get there.

flights from Saint Petersburg to other cities

Additionally, there are a few reasonably convenient flights out of St. Petersburg. Here are a few possibilities:

• Turkish Airlines flies to Pulkovo via Istanbul for as little as $300. It takes 11 hours to get there.
• Iberia via Madrid is available from Pulkovo for as little as $200 USD. It takes 11 hours to get there.
• From Pulkovo, travel on Royal Air Maroc and Aeroflot via Moscow (Sheremetyevo) costs $300 USD and takes 8 hours.
• From Pulkovo, by Air France with a connection in Paris, for $300. Travel time: 10 hours or more.

Compare airfares right here.

How to go from Casablanca airport to the center

The distance between the airport and the city center is 30 kilometers, and it takes 30 to 40 minutes to get there. It is preferable to take a cab from the airport in Casablanca to the city center. Cab fares range from 20 to 40 EUR. The airport’s ground level is where the taxi stand is situated (level of arrival area). The driver will take dollars or euros, but you should be aware that the exchange rate may not be to your liking. You can exchange currency at the airport at the going rate without worrying about overcharging. Here, exchange offices that accept USD and EUR are open 24/7. Keep in mind that Casablanca in Morocco only accepts payments in dirhams for many services, including train travel.

Important: When exchanging any other foreign currency during this trip, you must have a certificate proving that you got the dirhams before leaving the nation. Make sure you have a receipt showing that you originally swapped them from dollars or euros when you want to exchange them back (if left at the conclusion of the trip).

To get to the main station, Gare des Voyageurs (Casa Voyageurs), you can take the train; the fare starts at 5 EUR per person. The airport’s underground level is where boarding is located, under the number -1. There are cashiers in Terminals 1 and 2. From 6 am to 12 midnight, trains run at about hourly intervals.
You can check pricing from several car rental companies here at the airport, where there are car rental providers. Take the A7 Casa-Berchid through Bouskoura, followed by the A5 and R315 to reach the city center on your own.

By car

Anywhere there is a car, it is a real battle, a contest, or, more accurately, madness. If you have never driven in Morocco or, for example, Egypt before, it is highly discouraged that you rent a car and explore this country on your own. In particular, considering that the only way to reach Casablanca in Morocco is through Europe, which is 6,000 kilometers away and in no way an adventure.

via ferry

Tangier, a nearby city of Casablanca in Morocco, is easily accessible from Spain by ferry; the trip takes 35 minutes and costs no more than 30 EUR per person.

The season is when. When to leave

Casablanca does not enable you to fully engage in the excursion program during the summer months; instead, you may only swim in the sea or a pool. The ideal months to visit Casablanca are May or October since the weather is moderate but the sea is pleasant. Casablanca in Morocco is not the finest spot to come in the winter because the sea is just 17 degrees on average.

Summertime in Casablanca

The daytime temperature in the summer is maintained at or below 27 degrees. The ideal time of year for family vacations is now. It is between 21 and 22 degrees Celsius in the water. The beaches in Casablanca are crowded with residents and tourists from Europe at this time of year.

Casablanca in the Fall

While November is not as pleasant, September and October are almost like summer. Also, keep in mind that November is the wettest month of the year. The fall is the ideal season to travel to Morocco because it is cooler, the sea is warmer, and there are fewer visitors than in the summer.

Springtime in Casablanca

The water is approximately 16 degrees in March (cold), 18 degrees in April (very cool), and 19.5 degrees (slightly cool) in May when the average daily air temperature in spring is +21°C. Except for the final two weeks of May, Casablanca’s spring is not a good time to travel.

Winter in Casablanca

The typical daytime temperature in winter is around 19 degrees, and swimming is not recommended in water that is 17 degrees. No way is this time of year appropriate for a vacation to Casablanca in Morocco.

Neighborhoods. best places to live

The majority of European residents in Casablanca travel here for work. Most are middle-aged men who would rather remain in a nice hotel with service and a pool than an apartment where everything would be continuously breaking down (this is Morocco! ), even if their business trip lasts several months or a year. Additionally, you will be punished for all previous damage to the appliances and furniture. By the way, each new tenant receives a fine for the same infraction.

Therefore, if you’ve made the decision to stay in Casablanca in Morocco, I suggest looking for a hotel with a decent rating (more than 8 points on Bookings). Therefore, it costs between 100 and 200 EUR per room each night to provide safety and tranquility appropriate for a holiday. Hotels with ratings of less than 7 points are, to put it bluntly, awful; they are located in isolated locations and have dreadful service and furniture conditions.

As a result, if you decide to remain in Casablanca for a month or even longer, I suggest choosing a good hotel in a good location rather than an apartment. A monthly fee of 2500 EUR for an apartment for such a short period of time is already virtually the same as a room in a five-star hotel, so getting an apartment will not get much cheaper because the conditions you can have for 700 EUR you would not enjoy.

As a result, any misconceptions about Casablanca’s affordability are instantly dispelled. Poor ghetto apartments without furniture, with bugs and leaks on the walls, where the street smells, and only in residential sections are the grocery are cheap here. Additionally, the typical level is in no way of the European class. You won’t be able to live at a European standard here for 400–700 euros per apartment in rent. You can only find tranquility in villas and flats starting from 1300 EUR in Italy or Turkey; otherwise, you just “slide” into living on a third-world level.

On the Bucketing, hotels can be hired. Make sure these rates are the best for you by comparing them here. You can find a good choice here if you still wish to rent an apartment.

Casablanca in Morocco, other goods are nearly the same. The cheap versions are produced from unusual materials and are of low quality, so they end up costing the same as regular ones and not any less.

Popular areas to live in Casablanca include:

• Built in the 1930s, the Habous Quarter (also known as New Medina) may take home the prize for cleanest neighborhood in the city. This neighborhood draws all travelers due to the abundance of tourist-friendly streets there. The government and the court are located here, together with the Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral, the Sultan Moulay Youssef bin Hassan Mosque, the Royal Palace, and the Mahakma do Pasha Palace. Markets for ceramics, olives, seafood, and meat, as well as an intriguing textile and spice market, are close by. There are numerous cafes and restaurants, as well as shops selling jewelry, leather, silk, and cloth to tourists. Take bus numbers 40 and 4 from Paris Boulevard to get to Haboos from the center. Due to the old age of the structures, rental rates in Habous are extremely low. Without furniture, you can easily locate an apartment here for 400–600 EUR a month. Renting in this area is not advised because the neighborhood across the street has larger streets, more trees, and more contemporary structures.

• Anfa is the most exclusive neighborhood Casablanca in Morocco. It includes views of the sea, the beach, and the ports, as well as squares and palm-lined streets. Anfa is a district in the uplands with few hotels but lots of rental villas that can be rented for either a short or lengthy period of time. Europeans should consider relocating permanently to this neighborhood of Casablanca. A furnished flat of international standard costs between 1000 and 1600 EUR (70 square meters with new renovation). I definitely suggest renting an apartment right here; you’ll receive modern, spacious windows, views of grass and palm palms, and new renovations.

• The majority of hotels are found along the Corniche, which runs between the two beaches. Here are choices for renting hotel rooms as well as apartments to suit every preference and budget. In contrast to the areas of the center to the south or east, the Corniche neighborhood is sufficiently modern and is better suited for vacationing tourists. This makes it difficult to locate affordable long-term housing in the area, save for during the tourist season. Nevertheless, there are always possibilities available for 1,200 EUR for a decent, contemporary apartment.

• The core district, which lies south of the harbour, is spread across a huge area of land that begins at the port and finishes at the A3 highway. Although it is Casablanca’s largest district, it is unsuitable for foreigners because it also contains the Hobus district. Most of the residents are locals, there are offices nearby, and ghettos, nasty lanes, and slums surround the region to the south and east. Additionally, it is hazardous for foreigners south of the A3 highway. The housing options in the city center are varied, ranging from affordable studio apartments that no European could afford to upscale penthouses that cost $1,500 per month.

• Between the center and Anfa is another neighborhood known as Maarif, which is marked by a number of single-type structures with 6–10 floors and white paint. If you are interested in the transportation accessibility of any of the Casablanca neighborhoods, this region is quite easy to live in. In Maarif, there are numerous hotels adjacent to the beaches and the port, making it simple for those who want to combine beach and tourist vacations. Unlike the majority of Casablanca’s hotels, this sector is fairly modern. Long-term rent for an unfurnished flat is roughly 500–700 EUR (70–100 square meters), whereas luxury apartments cost roughly 1000–1500 EUR (150-200 square meters, with furniture).

Popular areas outside the city, including Mohammedia, Buznik, and Zenata, are shown on the map:

• Mohammedia, a nearby town 20 kilometers east of Casablanca in Morocco, is a fascinating destination to visit and it has four beaches, a golf course, and a lot of costly hotels. The beaches are significantly cleaner than in Casablanca proper, and the local aristocracy enjoy to vacation here. A decent hotel room in Mohammedia costs about 100 EUR, but it’s much preferable to rent an apartment (70–90 square meters) with space for 4–8 people for about 50–100 EUR. It is essentially a Moroccan resort that welcomes families.

• Zenata, a popular surfing destination with the same-named beach, is situated halfway between Casablanca and Mohammedia. Despite having the largest waves, it lacks the infrastructure required for the typical tourist lifestyle. Therefore, you can travel here by automobile or bus along the R322. Because the region is partially industrial, you shouldn’t anticipate any facilities than strong waves. However, you may rent a property right on the beach in this location if you pay a high enough fee. Such a villa costs around 2000 EUR per month (during peak season); inexpensive apartments are typically not offered in this area.

• Those who want to visit the fashionable bright red beach might consider vacationing in Buznika. Similar to Mohammedia, where a large apartment or home can be rented for between 100 and 200 EUR per day, hotel rates are average here.

What are the costs of vacations?

Going to restaurants, pubs, clubs, and cafes may be fairly pricey Casablanca in Morocco. It was designed largely for the French, thus it is difficult to locate anything of European caliber that is not extremely expensive. A low-cost holiday entails blending with the local culture by dining in small local cafés that serve Moroccan food and staying in an apartment or hotel near a lot of Arab-built structures.

• Lunch at a restaurant costs 25–35 EUR, lunch at a neighborhood café costs 5 EUR, and a nice dinner costs 60–70 EUR.
• A double room in a subpar hotel starts at 20 EUR, a middle-class hotel is 50–70 EUR, and a top-notch hotel is 80–250 EUR.
• Excursions (such as safaris and city tours) begin at 15 EUR.
• An average city taxi ride costs 3 EUR.

primary draws. What to watch

The majority of Moroccan mosques offer free access, however you must hire a local guide to explain the attraction to you. The price is initially often in the range of 20 to 30 USD, but the guide is genuinely eager to show you around for around $5 USD. In the same way, if a tour’s unofficial pricing is not shown on the official price list, you will be offered a service that is 2-3 times more expensive up front.

Top 5

Although Casablanca in Morocco is not the best place to go sightseeing, there are some noteworthy Arab-style architectural sites there:

The second mosque in Hassan.

Surprisingly, Hassan the Second Mosque is situated directly on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic. One hundred thousand individuals can pray there at once at its 210-meter-tall minaret! The mosque is open for guided tours at 9, 10, and 11 a.m. and at 2 p.m. on weekdays. Admission is 8 euros.

Sacré Coeur Basilica

Casablanca’s beautiful Sacré Coeur Cathedral is a must-see attraction. Not to be mistaken with the Parisian cathedral of the same name, for which Morocco’s architectural legacy was named.
It is situated on Boulevard Rachdi, close to Mohamad V’s central square (which is described below).

Location Mohhamed V

The city’s central square, Place Mohhamed V, is open every day of the year and is free to enter. It is surrounded by a number of significant landmarks, including the Sacré Coeur Cathedral, the General Post Office, and the Supreme Court building.

King’s Palace

While the Royal Palace is not a must-see location while on vacation, it is conveniently located in the middle of all the action Casablanca in Morocco. The palace can be found in New Medina (Hobus). It is important to note that you cannot enter the palace, not even for a price, as it is still the rulers’ temporary home. But you can take a picture close to the stylish gate.

Location: near Ahmed-el-Figuigui Street and Boulevard Victor-Hugo intersection.

Palace of Mahakma do Paça

Another beautiful example of Arab architecture that brings to mind the fairytale of the 1000 and one nights is the Mahakma do Paça Palace. Both the French accents of medieval castles and the idea of a typical caravanserai, a common kind of public building in the Arab world, may be seen in the design of the walls. The palace is accessible from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on weekdays and from 2 to 6 p.m. on weekends. Although there is no charge to enter the palace, there is a mandatory guide fee that can be negotiated.

Appt Quartier Romandie is the address.

Beaches. which ones are the best?

The beaches of Morocco cannot provide more than what they can. In slightly turbulent conditions, the tide already deposits a lot of trash on the beaches, and within an hour, the water’s hue has changed to a murky orange or green. However, if the season and the weather cooperate, you might plan a beach vacation in Casablanca.

The beaches featured in the list have zero infrastructure, including no loungers, no bars or restaurants, and frequently not even the cafes or restaurants themselves. Children can bathe in the sea at roughly the same smooth entrance, and it takes 5 to 10 minutes to walk to the bottom of the water, which is 1,6 meters deep. However, there is a chance of quite swift waves on all beaches, which could be uncomfortable for the rest of the family with little children who cannot swim.
Additionally, it is important to be aware that tent-dwelling visitors are common on several of Casablanca’s beaches.

The following is a list of the top beaches in and near Casablanca:

Since Casablanca’s beaches are all sand-covered, broad, and long, even in the height of summer travel, you can always find a spot on one.

• The greatest place in Casablanca to find some peace and quiet is Plage Lalla Meriem, often known as Corniche Beach. However, the morning is when everyone snags the good seats. Depending on the efforts of the municipal services, the beach itself may be clean or filthy, but more often than not, like the rest of the city, it is somewhere between the two. Behind the Anfa shopping center, close to the Four Seasons Hotel, sits the beach.

• Private swimming pools are available on the Corniche beach for 10 euros per person. From early in the morning until late at night, they are open. The beach is also accessible from here, and there are sun loungers and all the conveniences.

• La plage d’Aid Diab is crowded with residents; on weekends, dozens or even hundreds of youths congregate here to play ball. Local kids launch balloons here, and there is a lot of plastic waste. It is not advisable for women to show up in bikinis because the most of the rest are merely local, fully dressed women who only wade in knee-deep.

• Compared to the other beaches, Plage Madame Choual is a bit distant from the city. Next to the Morocco Mall, it is one of the tiniest beaches.

Beaches at Zenat and Buznik

• If you’re staying in the city center, Zenata, a beach halfway between Mohammedia and Casablanca, is a great option for surfing. If you exclude the area next to the port, which is full of plastic trash, the beach is generally clean. Follow the R322 eastward to the marker and turn left to reach it.

• Despite being 45 km from Casablanca’s city center and 20 km from Mohammedia, Bouznika is still a desirable tourist destination. On a bright, sunny day, the beach’s aquamarine waters and vivid red sand make it ideal for surfing and windsurfing. The quickest and most convenient way to get here is by train from Casablanca’s main station; the trip takes 40 minutes and costs 2 to 3 USD.

temples and churches. Worth the trip

The gorgeous, vibrant stained glass windows in Casablanca’s Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church are legendary. For people who enjoy being impressed while on vacation and are generally interested in architecture, it is a location worth visiting. The church was constructed in 1953 and was designed in the Art Nouveau style by Auguste Perret.
Hours of operation are 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm to 6:30 pm at Piazza Rond-Point d’Europe. Free admission.

Museums. which ones merit a visit

The two largest museums in Casablanca are mostly galleries of art. I would advise going to both.

• The museum Musée Abderrahman Slaoui is particularly well-liked by visitors. There are numerous opulent relics of Moroccan nobility, antique jewelry and accessories, posters, and a profusion of great artworks. This museum Casablanca in Morocco is a must-see if you enjoy art. It costs 8 EUR to enter. Open from 10 to 18 on the weekends, holidays, and on Mondays at 12 Rue Du Parc.

• Another place that merits your attention is the Villa des Arts de Casablanca art museum. 30 Boulevard Brahim Roudani is where you may find it. Because the museum is state-owned, admission is free. There are a few dozen intriguing paintings by Moroccan painters, most of which date from the 1930s. Weekends include Sunday and Monday, when it is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Parks

Go to a water park, a golf course, or the Parc des Liges to continue your holiday when you tire of the Arabian districts’ loud vendors:

• Casablanca’s Arabian League Park is a wonderful area to wander while surrounded by palm palms. Prices are reasonable, there are many restaurants and cafes, and both locals and visitors frequently have picnics on the grass. The park is accessible to the general public every day of the year and is free to enter.

Visiting Streets

The principal tourist neighborhoods are:

• The promenade known as Corniche Boulevard is home to a number of upscale eateries, coffee shops, hotels, as well as local gift shops, apparel, and shoe stores. Laila Meryem beach, Anfa commercial area, and Ain Diab beach, which is ideal for family-friendly tourist outings, surround it on the right and left, respectively. The residential area of Anfa is close by and is home to several luxurious (by Moroccan standards) villas with gardens and swimming pools.

• A whole area of Hobus, New Medina is studded with quaint stores, several marketplaces, and intriguing boutiques. For all visitors who come to experience the unique flavor of Morocco, this place must be seen.

Things to do in a day

I advise visiting the Anfa retail complex and the beach closest to it if you are visiting Casablanca for a day on a cruise ship. You should also stroll down Boulevard Corniche and the promenade, stop at the Mohamed II mosque, and explore the Old Medina neighborhood. The same holds true for weekend visitors who arrived in Casablanca by automobile or airplane. This trip can be completed in 3–4 hours without stopping at the beach and in 8–9 hours if stopping at the beach and a few cafés or restaurants. On various flights, the liners often stay from 8 or 9 till 5 or 9 p.m. If your mooring ends at 5 pm, I advise spending no more than three hours on the beach; however, if it stays open until 9 pm, there is no time restriction.

There is a pattern to the itinerary:

• 8 or 9 am: liner parking – tourist seats in the Old Medina area
• Mohamed II Mosque: Leave modern bus line 011 at Res. Bouaarfa station at 11 a.m. (runs every 13 minutes).
• 12 a.m.: ride it to Plage Laila Mereyem beach, get off at the Anfa mall on the sand, and then walk the same route back.
• 3.30 p.m.: From Laila Mereyem beach, it’s only a few kilometers in a straight line to the departing liner parking. Alternatively, you can take the bus. the same route back. Another sizable mall, Morocco Mall, is located right on the beach and is open until 22:00.

The route is 6–9 kilometers long, of which 3–4 km are traveled by bus and an air-conditioned streetcar, respectively. Keep in mind that it is preferable to arrive at the liners’ parking area early.

Many restaurants and public restrooms are located in the mall in the Old Medina district along the route. This approach avoids visiting squares and several mosques.

something to look out for in the area

When I originally arrived in Casablanca for three months, I knew I wouldn’t last more than a few weeks, so I immediately started looking for somewhere else to go. If you opt to transfer your holiday to a more European location like I did, here is my list of recommended locations, all of which are accessible by both train (if it’s Morocco) and airplane. It is preferable to take the train from Casablanca to any other Moroccan city because it is quicker than taking the bus and accessing the station is simpler. The Casablanca Voyageurs train station is located there.

Where can I go from Casablanca that is quick and trouble-free?

Rabat (85 kilometers) (85 km)

• The journey to Rabat, Morocco, takes one hour. To get to the city of Fez, which passes through Rabat, you must use a train. The cost is between $3 and $4.300 miles away from Tangier, for a trip to Spain

• From this port city, a quick ferry will take you to Spain. It takes roughly 3.5 hours to get from Casablanca to Tangier. The cost is $13. You may find the ferry timetable here.

• Algeciras (20 miles from Tangier) A 35-minute ferry voyage from Tangier will get you to the Spanish port and resort; the ferry will cost you 30 EUR, but it will be well worth it. It’s incredibly convenient to travel to Algeciras because the ferry is quite contemporary and will get you there swiftly. The storied resort of Tarifa, with its spotless white sand beach, is close by. Additionally, Algeciras itself has a fantastic, long beach with clear water. To be in Spain as soon as possible, in Algeciras, a wonderful paradise, would be my straightforward response if you were to ask me what I dreamed about when I was in Casablanca.

• Marrakech (250 km) (250 km) The trip takes 2.5 hours by auto or bus from Casablanca to the city. Train travel takes 2.5 hours and costs $10 for first class to get to this location. Only those who truly appreciate Morocco and its culture should travel to Marrakech, as the city has an even greater concentration of obtrusive local vendors and packed, dirty, yet vibrant streets than Casablanca.

• Chavin (330 kilometers) (330 km) One can travel to the Moroccan Chavin, which has blue houses, as part of a tour that frequently departs from the ship pier. This tour, which takes around 2.5 hours to complete one way, is highly well-liked by everyone who spends the day in Casablanca. Built in 1471, Chavin is home to beautiful blue and azure homes as well as a variety of stores selling fantastic trinkets.

What to Try in Food

• Since food illness is a typical occurrence among visitors to Morocco, I personally encourage you to only eat at chain restaurants and pricey fast food restaurants at 4* and 5* hotels. Nevertheless, several of the restaurants on our list below serve some of the country’s absolutely delicious regional cuisine.
• Be advised that many restaurants in Casablanca operate with a lengthy fiesta (lunch break), just like in France, as the city was a former French colony. suggested locations are.

• Burgers are not simply burgers; Blend Gourmet Burgers are works of art! Stylish interior, cutting-edge service, and chic serving!
• Location: Quartier Gauthier, 9 Rue Theophile Gauthier.
• Open from noon to 5:00 and from 9:00 until 23:30.
• Iloli is a hip restaurant serving sushi and Japanese cuisine, with an elegant setting that straddles Asian minimalism and American loft. Both tourists and students frequent the restaurant in great numbers.
• 33 Rue Najib Mahfoud is the address.
• Available from 12:30 to 15:00 and 19:30 to 0:00.

Budget

• Lunch at the Moroccan fast food restaurant L’espace du Professeur costs between 5 and 10 euros per person. In general, this location could be described as a local canteen with excellent meals for tourists. There is a playground there.
• Boulevard Moussa Ibn Noussair, Gauthier, is the location, and it’s open from 6 am to 9 pm.
• You may dine well and affordably at Khos. Salads, snacks, and sweets are all offered in abundance. The cost of lunch starts at 10 euros per person, there are inexpensive soups, and the restaurant specializes in European and Mediterranean food. Open from 12:00 to 20:00.
• 44 Rue Annoussour is the address.

level middle

• Le Patio is more than simply a restaurant; it’s a chic outdoor space with green walls and a contemporary, urban vibe. It seems more like Canada than Morocco. Dish prices start at 20 EUR.
• Rue Llya Abou Madi, 2 bis, Quartier Gauthier.
• Open from noon to 5:00 and from 9:00 until 23:30.
• Another intriguing location with a Cuban-inspired décor is La Bodega de Casablanca. Cocktails start at 7 euros; a meal and a drink costs 25 euros. 129 Rue Allal BenAbdallah serves primarily Spanish and Latin cuisine.
• Open from 12:00 to 16:00 and 19:00 to 1:00.

Dear

• Brasserie La Tour is a very pricey establishment with a preference for elegant cuisine and a very fashionable décor. The expensive price is truly warranted, therefore that is the only drawback. Breakfast costs around 15 euros per person, and supper costs around 50 euros. The restaurant is open from 8 am to 11 pm and is situated on the first floor of the Hotel Sofitel Tour Blanche.
• A great hangout for young people, Tula Comida Latina serves authentic Moroccan cuisine. However, there are also delicious Mexican, Chilean, and Peruvian cuisine! One highly creative menu covers the entirety of the Latino world. The cost of the dishes starts at 35 EUR.
• Address: Quartier Racine, 8 Rue Isli.
• open from noon till midnight.
• Another intriguing location, this time with a stunning ocean view, is Le Cabestan – Ocean View. A variety of seafood dishes are added to classic French and Mediterranean cuisines. A supper will cost you roughly 40 EUR. In the summer, seats must be reserved!
• 90 Boulevard de la Corniche Phare d’El Hank is the address.
• Open from 12:00 till 00:00.

Holidays

If you desire a vibrant nightlife, it is not advised to visit Casablanca (or Morocco) during Ramadan. Additionally, a lot of cafes, restaurants, and even hotels are closed on this religious holiday.

The Jazzblanca Jazz Festival, the lengthy 3- to 4-day L’Zac L’Boulevard Music Festival, and the Safi Ceramics Fair are among the notable events and festivals held in Casablanca. It is important to examine each date separately.

Safety. What to be wary of

• A few guidelines and constant caution are required when traveling across Morocco, which was and still is predominantly an African nation. Let’s examine the Casablanca security threats.
• In general, a lady should not venture out alone after 8 o’clock. Even if there is no seat available, you cannot stand next to a stranger on the bus. Only a male may occupy an open seat next to another man.
  No home in Morocco has central heating, so if the temperature drops to zero in the winter, you’ll remain inside your apartment. Electric heaters allow you to warm yourself, but they are pricey. Many Moroccans don’t use any kind of heating during their entire lives.
  
• Never pay a deposit before seeing the flat if you are renting it. If everything functions well after the viewing, you can only give the first month’s rent plus any applicable commission. You are trying to defraud if a commission is imposed on you after you refused to accept it in the first place. Never send money 3-6 months in advance; it’s almost certainly a straightforward fraud.
  
• There is no employment in this city (Casablanca in Morocco). There are, in theory, none for residents, English speakers. The typical monthly wage for a family of four—a married couple with 2-4 kids, the husband or wife’s parents, and one or two younger siblings—is between $300 and $500.
  There is no reliable Internet almost anywhere (well, besides in pricey hotels).
  
• Before moving forward with the rental, check the Internet connection in the apartment; otherwise, you face the chance of never reaching your realtor, who will avoid you for any issues.
  The average wage in Casablanca is 30 000 rubles, according to statistics on the internet. However, keep in mind that 50% of the population is illiterate and that Casablanca, in particular, has a shockingly low employment rate. Therefore, one individual provides for a family of six to fifteen members, and this is actually the norm and in no way an exception.
  
• If you don’t want passersby to look at you with a frightening grin, avoid wearing skirts, miniskirts, or garishly beautiful (which means colorful and eye-catching!) jeans and pants. You will be treated more kindly on the streets the scarier you dress.
  
• A family of four would require roughly 200 thousand rubles per month, while a couple would require about 130 thousand rubles per month to live comfortably. For two people, the minimum monthly salary in Casablanca is roughly 70 thousand rubles. Moving to Casablanca as a waiter or freelancer even for the summer season makes little sense with less money or pay.

Things to do

As much as the guidebooks attempt to convince us otherwise with French street names and pricey restaurants à la Paris, Casablanca is first and foremost an Arab city. I wouldn’t suggest you to venture outside of the tourist districts because people here barely survive rather than live. There is a list of locations, though, that everyone visitor to Casablanca should be aware of:

• The rumored Yasmina Amusement Park in Casablanca, which was once home to slides and merry-go-rounds, has been shuttered and abandoned for a long time.
• Working water park Tamaris Aquaparc is a Casablanca must-see even if it is generally inferior to any European water park. With a bowling alley, kids’ play area, eight giant slides, and twenty kid-sized slides, it is the biggest in all of Morocco. Opening hours are from 10 to 18:30 every day, and admission is 45 EUR for adults and 30 EUR for kids. Route d’Azemmour Km 15, please.
• Open from 7 am to 7 pm, Royal Golf Anfa is a stunning golf club located in the heart of the city. Each participant will pay 80 EUR, not including drinks and food. The golf club is situated in the same-named Anfa area, with access from the side of the R320 highway and a stop called Royal Gold D Anfa.

Shops and Shopping

In the Anfaplace neighborhood, Casablanca’s two major shopping centers are close to one another:

• The Anfaplace Shopping Center is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is located on Corniche Boulevard’s waterfront. Women will adore the American Eagle Outfitters store, which is a brand name and uncommon in Africa.

• On the west side of the city, Morocco Mall is also open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Here, you can find brands like Louis Vuitton, Zara, and others.

Bars. What to do?

• French specialties can be ordered at Brasserie Nicole. European tourists adore its chic, opulent décor, which has a French flavor. Cocktail prices start at 12 EUR. Open from 19 to 1 am at 47 Avenue Hassan Souktani.

• The distinctive Le Diplomate Bar, which has a clubby feel reminiscent of an English gentlemen’s club, is situated at 27 Avenue De L’Armée Royale. It goes without saying that the eye-catching interior, pricey furnishings, and inviting old European ambiance are worthy of your attention. alcohol starting at 7 euros. Between 7 p.m. and 2 a.m.

• The Hyatt Regency Hotel’s first floor is home to the magnificent Cafe M, which is open from 12:00 to 15:00 and from 19:00 to 23:00. Anyone who is tired of Europe in Morocco should check it out, in my opinion. Lunch costs between 20 and 30 EUR and is available directly in the center.

• The most well-known bar, Sky 28, is situated in the storied Twin Center in the heart of the city. A panoramic view over the entire city is worth the average 20 EUR cost of the pricey cocktails. Around 10:00 p.m., the sights are at their best. Hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

• The same-named hotel’s VAL D’ANFA Bar offers upscale service and a stylish beverage menu comparable to those of French resorts. The prices are fair; an average supper with wine costs around 80 euros per person. Address in full: 2 Bd de L’Ocean Atlantique, 2 Rue Des Biaridez The bar is open daily from midday till midnight.

Nightlife and clubs

• Outside of the city, in the little resort town of Mohammedia, to the east, is where you’ll find Casablanca’s primary club. The Opra Club is renowned for its exorbitant costs, top-notch DJs, and swanky service. The Avanti Mohammedia Hotel, located directly on the Miramar beach, serves as its foundation. Drinks often cost 15 to 10 euros, while entrance fees are 30 euros. This club has a very straightforward dress code: tracksuits, too-used jeans, sneakers, boots, and shorts and flip-flops are not permitted.

• Located at 55 Boulevard de la Corniche, B ROCK is open from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Live music, a 5 EUR entrance fee, and 12 EUR for a beverage. Although there is no set dress code at this establishment, it is best to avoid wearing beachwear.

• On 16 Rue de la Mer Noire, Club Amstrong has live music and is open from 19 till 2 in the morning. On days when there are no performances, admission is free. Alcoholic beverages start at 7 EUR, and cocktails start at 10 EUR. The club has no dress code either. The sole requirement is to refrain from wearing flip-flops or beach T-shirts.

• The most expensive nightclub Casablanca in Morocco, Crystal Beach Club is a stylish establishment. The pool is surrounded by a number of platforms and dance floors and is designed to resemble an oasis with palm palms and lovely lighting. Negative: pricy entry (60 EUR on weekdays and 80 EUR on weekends). Cocktails cost around 30 euros, and the club caters to the wealthiest visitors. similar to those of the Opra Club.

Extreme sport

Surfing

Every travel guide portrays Morocco’s beaches as a haven for surfers, especially in the months of January and February. Which is advantageous since most resort surf spots aren’t suitable for surfing at this time of year.

The best waves are to be found between October and March, though Ramadan surfers will face criticism from the locals. The best surfing schools in Morocco, however, are located in Agadir and El Suveira, not Casablanca.

a camel and horse safari

Any city office with excursions can be contacted to arrange an interesting excursion through the desert. Depending on how long the program is, up to 3 days long, the price ranges from 20 to 60 USD.

a Jeep Safari

A jeep safari is an additional choice for touring the desert as a group; it can be considerably more pleasant than riding a horse. Such entertainment generally costs between $20 and $30.

Souvenirs. Bringing the right gifts.

Ceramics, pointed Baboushi slippers, women’s djellaba robes, and various copper artifacts are the top souvenirs in Casablanca (trays, mugs, teapots). Items made of copper typically cost between 10 and 25 euros. In the Old Medina, which is close to the port, you may purchase souvenirs.

How to navigate the city

The city of Casablanca is challenging to navigate as well as to live in generally. I advise using the contemporary streetcars, which cover the most of the city, if you’re here for one to seven days. The best way to get to the rest of the city is with a rental car because the quality of the city’s taxis is quite subpar.

Cabs. What unique characteristics

Casablanca in Morocco, taxis are red rather than yellow. Typically, they are soaked with gasoline and driven by locals in very old cars. It is true that inside the city limits, the fare in them does not exceed $4 USD and corresponds to this degree of luxury.
In Morocco, you are permitted to stop a taxi that is currently carrying a customer. If you are traveling together, you divide the tab. Cabs in Casablanca have meters; after boarding, confirm that it is on.
The cab driver’s naming of the street, place of residence, or home number is absurd. You can travel to any luxury hotel, restaurant, or local landmark that you can think of.
Warning. Casablanca in Morocco, taxi drivers typically don’t give change. There is a significant likelihood that the driver may prefer to treat a hefty bill as payment plus tip if you give one. Just include the fare plus a 20% tip.

Streetcars

The streetcar system in the city is rather well-developed, and it can be utilized to move around Casablanca. The best option is a cheap cab or bus because their branch does not influence the coastal areas, including Anfa district. The latter, however, are undesirable because they only have Arabic timetables at the stops.

There are stations at the port (Casa Port), next to the train station, and Plage Ain Diab, which is the closest station to it (Casa Voyagers). From 6 am to 10:30 pm, streetcars run. The fare, which is paid in dirhams, is equal to 0.5 USD (6 MAD). At the turnstiles close to each station, payment is required. You purchase a ticket from the machine first. After that, present the ticket at a predetermined location to pass the turnstile (like in the subway).

Buses

Without a schedule, air conditioning, or regard for the rudimentary needs of transportation hygiene, city buses ply the streets of the city at will. Nevertheless, as drivers are only permitted to halt at bus stops, you shouldn’t attempt to stop the bus anywhere else along the route. Nevertheless, private businesses rather than governmental ones frequently operate the busiest routes. Use just the new blue buses; look for them. In the city, they pay 0.5 EUR (5 MAD).
Buses are also a wonderful way to get to interstate locations that CTM serves. Ticket prices range from 6 to 30 EUR, depending on the location. There is air conditioning in these buses. Only at the Gare Routiere Ouled Ziane bus station on Route Ouled Ziane El Fara or the official CTM office in the city’s heart on Rue Leon L’Africain are tickets available for purchase. The bus station is operational every day of the year.

Renting a vehicle

In Morocco, renting a car comes with no inconveniences. Many rental locations have a front desk that is staffed around-the-clock. Here, you may compare rates from various rental businesses. You’ll need a credit card and an international driving license to rent a car.
True, the difficulties start when you are stuck in one of the city’s many traffic jams while attempting to find a parking spot for your hotel or other destination amid a weird maze of winding streets and misinterpreted directions from locals. Because there are so many mopeds and motorcycles in the city and because Moroccan drivers often have no interest in obeying even the most basic traffic laws, you must drive carefully.
The maximum speed on an intercity route is only 120 kilometers per hour, and toll highways typically cost between 4 and 8 EUR. A European-class air-conditioned automobile costs 250 EUR per day to hire. You may get a used automobile without air conditioning for 100 EUR.

Mobile phones

Since Moroccan cell phones operate on the GSM network, you must purchase a local SIM card with pre-paid credit. The price is roughly 7 EUR.

Vacations with kids in Casablanca

Personally, I wouldn’t advise taking a family trip to Casablanca in Morocco. It is preferable to pick a resort in Turkey or Bulgaria for such objectives. There is no play infrastructure in Casablanca, the roads are difficult to navigate, the sidewalks are filthy, there are hardly any parks, and those that are there are in poor shape.
The only slides and pools in this city that are safe for kids to play in are in a select few of the priciest five-star hotels, but otherwise this city may scare any kid to death. Large waves frequently hit the beaches, which are rather unclean.
The largest and most contemporary water park in Morocco is located in the city, but Casablanca is otherwise unremarkable when it comes to family entertainment.

Fes in Morocco; El Maghreb often known as Morocco or the land of the setting sun, is sometimes referred to as a fairy-tale Middle Ages. Only on my second attempt did I manage to stumble onto this nation. The first was crowned with absolute change because all the tickets had already been purchased, the accommodations had been reserved, and my attention were focused on experiencing Morocco. I tried my fortune again exactly one year later, and this time everything worked out.

Morocco is wonderful, and I was captivated by the country. Everything there has a magical quality, including the sights of Morocco, the mouthwatering mandarins, the mint tea served every minute, the streets of Medina, the unmatched calls to prayer, the fragrant gifts of tajine, pastila, and harira, the incredible skill of the locals in trade, the ease and accessibility of the hammam, the self-made carpets, the Berber handicrafts, the rich linguistic diversity of the Moroccans and their love of Although the nation is small, it is incredibly diversified. Morocco is rich in the Sahara, the Atlas Mountains, and a small amount more ocean and sea outside of metropolitan civilisation. Additionally, every city has an own personality. Overall, a wonderful Orient that everyone will adore.

Fes in Morocco, the oldest and most distinctive imperial city, served as my introduction to the nation. And long before I set out on my trip to Morocco, I, like probably many of you, had been binge-watching “Clone” and daydreaming about seeing Fez, the capital city of Morocco. “Dreams are also intended to come true. What use would they have in that case?”

From the first minute, Fes in Morocco had my attention. Compared to other Moroccan cities, it is the most lively. It is renowned for having the largest and oldest Medina, both of which have remained almost unchanged from those medieval times. The cultural center of Morocco is the city of Fes in Morocco, which is home to artisans including potters and tanners.

Getting there

After all, Morocco is in Africa, thus the only ways to travel there from other continents are by air or sea. From nearby cities in the nation, Fez is reachable by plane, train, bus, or rental vehicle.

Foum Europe, Fes in Morocco will be considerably closer, and tickets there will be less expensive.

The most effective route to go to Morocco and subsequently to Fes in Morocco is via Spain, which once colonized Morocco. Frequent low-cost flights and ferries leave from the southern part of Spain. So you can accomplish two goals at once: learn about stunning Morocco and passionate Spain.

There are no nonstop flights from Europe capital cities to Fes in Morocco(St. Petersburg and Moscow). Iberia, Vueling, Arab Airlines, Moldova Airlines, and even Ural Airlines have connections to Europe. The majority of the connections have protracted layovers. How much time can you spend waiting in one direction even when the cost is only about 250 EUR one way?

Therefore, it would be advisable to split the journey from any country to Morocco into two parts in this instance:

• travel to Europe.
• how to travel to Fes in Morocco from European cities.

The best transportation links between Spain, which is close both geographically and spiritually, and Morocco exist. Additionally, there are numerous low-cost flights to Spain, particularly to Barcelona, departing from St. Petersburg and Moscow. All of this makes flying to Fes in Morocco via Spain an excellent choice, as does the fact that Spain is very desirable not just as a transition location.

There is a great website called Vandrouki that lists all of the current deals and discounts for international travel while also suggesting strategies for almost-free travel. There are frequently really intriguing “how to get to Morocco” deals highlighted. For instance, a flight from Tallinn to Morocco via Germany during the 2017 May holidays costs around 30 EUR. A joke, perhaps? For such locations, Ryanair offers tickets at unreasonably low prices. The final step, if you don’t already have one, is to travel to Tallinn and apply for a Schengen visa.

Sometimes the same Vandrouki posts advertisements for flights to Barcelona offered by the airline Pobeda. By the way, no Schengen visa is necessary if you merely change aircraft in Spain. Additionally, you may find the most convenient and affordable flights here.

How to get into the city from Fez Airport

The airport is where you first arrive Fes in Morocco. Although Fez airport is little in comparison to the enormous airports in Europe, it performs admirably as the only airport in the rather populated and well-liked Fes in Morocco. There are places where you may exchange dollars or euros for local dirhams at the airport. Although the airport exchange rates are typically higher than those at the city center exchange bureaus, you will undoubtedly need cash to get into the city proper, so bring some change, but only a little bit.

From the airport, there are two methods to get to the center:

• by bus number 16 for three euros each, but there is no set schedule for the route.
• By cab, which costs the same 3 EUR per person, is quick, enjoyable, and inexpensive.

Usually, only foreigners who have not yet become accustomed to the relaxed pace of the nation wait patiently for any bus at the bus stop, which is directly across the street from the airport. After waiting for a bus for around 30 minutes, which never arrived, we were mobbed by cab drivers who pushed us to ride in their vehicles. So the two of us banded together with other tourists, haggled with the bus driver over the price, and together we traveled to Medina.

via train

In Morocco, the rail system is fairly advanced. Train service connects important towns including Marrakesh, Casablanca, and Tangier to Fes in Morocco.

Train travel times from Marrakech to Fes in Morocco are 7 hours, 5 hours from Tangier, and 4 hours from Casablanca. According to reports, there are two classes of Moroccan trains:

• a certain location on the ticket.
• any seat that is open.

The price varies depending on the class, however second class costs roughly:

1. For roughly 15 EUR from Casablanca, 
2. and for 20 EUR from Marrakech.
3. just 10 EUR from Tangier.

Costs for first class will be 5–10 EUR more. Children under the age of four ride the train for free, and those under the age of twelve receive discounts.

On the website of the Moroccan railroad ONCF, you may see accurate rates and train schedules, but you cannot purchase or reserve tickets from outside of Morocco; you must do it when you arrive at the station. However, trains operate regularly and there are always enough tickets available.

The Fes in Morocco train station is really lovely, and taxis are waiting at the exit to take you into the city.

Throughout our entire trip to Morocco, we never had the chance to experience the trains, although numerous people we encountered en route said they were very happy with the comfort and speed.

By Bus

Buses are probably the most affordable and widely used mode of transportation in the nation. These exact buses were given to the Moroccans due to their unsuitability in Spain. However, ALSA buses in Spain and Morocco are actually very similar. Yes, the ones in Morocco appear to be a touch more worn, but overall they have fantastic rides, reclining seats, and functional air conditioning.

CTM and SupraTours are the two largest bus operators in Morocco. You can check the destination and the bus schedule on each company’s website. For instance, a bus from Tangier to Fes will cost 11 EUR and take about 6 hours. 9 hours and 17 EUR from Marrakech. Five hours and nine euros from Casablanca. Moroccans are cunning, and they can add a fee for placing luggage in the luggage compartment to the price of the ticket. Because of this, many people place their bags under the seats, between the legs, over the head, and even in their cuddles as they travel.

At a modest ticket counter at the bus stop, you can purchase bus tickets. Each organization has a separate ticket office. The earlier you purchase your tickets, the better. Buses operate at intervals of up to two hours, however they are nearly never empty. The most widely used mode of transportation in Morocco, after all.

Local, extremely beaten-down, jam-packed with trash and people, and cramped buses of unidentified carriers provide an alternative to luxurious tourist bus companies. These buses stop in every village, are simple to board with a wave of the hand, and cost approximately half as much as the average bus fee.

The experienced should choose this route, of course. We figured we had experience, so we gave it a shot. Simply put, a delight. After spending such a short four hours in Morocco, it is probably impossible to learn even more about the nation.

In Fes, there appear to be two bus terminals. Five minutes from the main entrance to the historic portion of the city, one is directly next to the Medina. The second one is situated on the outskirts of the city. You can easily walk from the first one, and you can grab a cab for roughly two euros from the second one.

By car

In Morocco, the roads are excellent. Driving across the nation is a fantastic idea, especially if you are taking a big family vacation.

Car rentals are widely available in Morocco, so you may do it when you are there or easily reserve one in advance on the website of any European firm you like. You may frequently bargain with Moroccans on the moment to lower the rental cost, but it’s just luck. All around the nation, there are free and toll-free roadways. And as soon as you exit the gangway or leave the deck, you can start driving toward Fes in Morocco.

The Moroccan car rental process is efficient.

There are several people that are driving. Even though we didn’t have a car, we still had time to enjoy the roads.

Ferry

Fes in Morocco is not accessible by ferry, although you can go to other Moroccan cities by one.

Ferries leave from Barcelona and from cities throughout southern Spain. You will need a whole day to go from Barcelona to any port city in Morocco, and a one-way ticket would set you back about 100 EUR. Therefore, it is best to depart from sunny places like Almeria, Motril, Algeciras, or Tarifa if you take a ferry. You can also go from Malaga to the Spanish autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, which are situated in northern Africa and are encircled by the Mediterranean and Morocco. From there, you can go to Fes in Morocco by crossing the border.

The quickest and least expensive route to Tangier, Morocco, is from Algeciras or Tarifa. The journey only lasts for approximately an hour, and a single ticket will run you roughly 25 EUR. There are 8–10 ferry runs every day. On the other hand, getting to other places will take longer and cost a lot more money.

Although there are several ferry operators, the cheapest prices can be found on the excellent Direct Ferries website. If this form of trip has not been scheduled in advance, you can also purchase these exact tickets at the port. There might not be any tickets available, though, right before the ferry leaves. Despite the fact that ferries run often, a sizable number of people always wish to take them.

We took a plane to Fes in Morocco then a ferry to leave Morocco and get to Algeciras. It’s also really cool to cross a maritime border as one extremely interesting piece of land is moving away and another equally interesting piece of land is approaching. It’s extremely liberating.

The season is when. What time is ideal for traveling?

Any time of year is fantastic to visit Fes in Morocco. The climate is pleasant year-round, the Atlas Mountains’ permanently snow-capped summits are only 50 km away, and the ocean is nearby. It would be wonderful to explore the other intriguing Moroccan locations if you visit Fes in Morocco. Swim in the warm Atlantic if you visit in the summer or early fall. And if it’s essential to conquer the Atlas Mountains in the late fall and early spring. The peak travel period is from April to October, which also includes the New Year’s holiday. But Morocco, notably Fez itself, continues to be quite alluring even outside of this season. However, it is important to keep in mind that winter nights can be startlingly cold and that summer’s peak can appear overly hot. Another extremely crucial point is that you definitely shouldn’t travel to Morocco during the holy month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the lunar calendar), since the country may come across poorly due to the obligatory Muslim prohibitions.

The classic Moroccan food tagine is always in season, which is a plus. You must therefore travel to Fes in Morocco out of goodwill.

Summertime in Fez

Throughout the entire summer, Fez experiences daytime highs of +30° and nighttime lows of +17°. Since there is no sea or ocean in Fes, the summers there are extremely dry and abrasive. It’s preferable to be near the water at this time of year, because you only have a few days in Fes in Morocco to fall in love with this regal city and come back several times.

Fall in Fez

The weather isn’t all that different from summer’s at the start of autumn. The temperature reaches a low of +25 degrees in the middle of the season, and it hovers around +17 degrees in November. It’s time to get to know Fes in Morocco when the blazing sun sets and the heat subsides.

Springtime in Fez

In the spring, Fez experiences daytime highs of +15 to +25 degrees and overnight lows of +10 degrees. The best time of year to visit Fez is now. Particularly in April and the first few weeks of May, when the blossoms start and the city resembles a giant orange orchard.

Winter in Fez

Fez’s wintertime temperatures range from +10 to +15 degrees during the day and up to +5 degrees at night.

You can go outside in a dress, sneakers, and a light jacket during the day, but you should be prepared and have warm clothing for the evening. It is typically sunny and pleasant during the day, although there can also be high gusts and mild showers.

Fes is quite crowded with tourists for the New Year’s holiday, and the Atlas Mountains to the south of the city are home to a number of ski resorts that are popular in the winter.

Neighborhoods. a place to live

Fez is a small city, and the Medina, the historic center, is where you’ll find all the must-see attractions. Additionally, the city is split generally into three sections:

1. Fez el Bali, the ancient Medina, is encircled by a medieval wall and has 1,000 streets and alleyways. UNESCO has designated this enormous pedestrian area as one of its World Heritage Sites. There are several districts in the Old Medina. Potters live in some, weavers in others, and tanners in still others. Although some of its streets are quite narrow, they are also somewhat confusing. In such a big and fake Fes el Bali, it is obvious that even having a map and having superb orienteering abilities on the spot can fail.
2. The new Medina, known as Fes Jdid, is set apart from the ancient Medina by a thick, ornate wall. The crooked gate of Bab-bu-Jelud is the most significant of these. There are numerous marketplaces, stores, and eateries in this area of Fez. Although less perplexing, it is more touristy.
3. The only place outside the Medina is New Fez. It’s nothing special in this area of the city. The typical housing stock is there, as with all forms of transportation, including train and bus stations and airports. generally speaking, the standard civilization.

The finest place to stay in Fez is unquestionably in the new Medina, or perhaps even outside of it but yet close enough. And this is why: Fes Jdid is situated in what seems to be a middle ground between the intriguing and required parts of the city. Fes el Bali, on the other hand, appears to be tucked away in the center of the city. When you first arrive in Fes, you must not only travel great distances but also make a valiant effort to discover an appropriate place to stay among the city’s countless winding lanes. Staying in the modern Fez makes little sense because the imperial Fez ought to be considerably closer. On the other side, the modern Medina represents the ideal.

Accommodation styles

Morocco has a fairly developed tourism industry, thus the problem of lodging for visitors is effectively handled. In addition to the standard, well-known to most people hotels and hostels, Fez also offers the Dar and Riad, the two main types of traditional Moroccan dwelling.

Dar, which means “home” in Arabic, invariably refers to a building with a courtyard inside. Riad, on the other hand, connotes the existence of an interior garden and is translated as “palace.” Both are highly prevalent in Morocco, but exclusively among the affluent citizens. However, the Moroccans are wonderful and have opened their hotels, hostels, or hostels, but in the shape of daras or riads, which is amazing for us visitors. The humility of the latter is the only significant distinction between a palace and a house, but both are exquisitely lovely and comfortable. Both are furnished with tall charming doors, vibrant lamps, patterned tiles, a sea of cushions, a fountain in the middle of the patio, and plants all around. They are both adorned in an Arabic manner. Additionally, their courtyards are ideal for tea gatherings, positive thinking, and connecting with the Arab culture. So you may fully experience Moroccan life when you stay in these traditional resorts.

On Booking, you may make advance hotel reservations. In the off-season, you can arrive without making a reservation, and the proprietors could provide a discount. The cost of lodging in Fez is extremely reasonable. You can find a luxury, pricey, and comfy room for between 5 and 500 EUR per night.

I can speak from experience

We were able to stay in two very different hostels throughout our time in Fes. The first was the modest but lovely hostel Dar Rabha. The new Medina’s main entrance is five minutes away from it. Dar is difficult to locate because it is hidden from onlookers’ view. A helpful Moroccan man assisted us. The hostel appeared pretty desolate from the outside, but inside, to my surprise, it was fantastic. The hostel offers a terrace, free breakfasts, and all the necessary local information. A shared room costs 5 EUR per person each night. One of the hostel’s drawbacks is that it is a little chilly, both physically and emotionally. Overall, however, I strongly advise it.

Riad Verus was the second. Though outside the new Medina, it is near by. The entrance door suggests that it is nondescript and hidden. Once inside, you truly feel as though you are in a palace. within a stunning Moroccan palace. You are served mint tea, the patio fountain gurgles, and you meet new interesting individuals. With a large terrace and views of the entire city of Fez, this Riad is incredibly evocative. For only 5 EUR per person, it offers delicious breakfasts and fantastic guides to the old Medina. A night in one of these riads costs 8 EUR. The owner’s poor musical taste, which he displayed by playing techno nonstop, was a stingy drawback to all the palace’s positive attributes. But over the years, there have been so many different visitors and they have all left their own thoughts, so this minus may have long since converted to a plus. Overall, I endorse it.

By the way, there are possibilities in Morocco for those who enjoy living in flats and with families. Although it is a third-world country, this type of lodging is highly developed there, despite not being especially well-liked. Getting out of your comfort zone and getting to know the city by interacting with the locals is a significant benefit of using such guest networks. We tried staying with a family in Morocco, not in Fez, and we were really happy with it.

Check out the prices for hotel rooms and apartments here.

What are the costs of vacations?

Let’s start with the Moroccan dirham. In any of the city’s numerous exchange offices, you can exchange foreign currency for local currency. But because every exchanger has a different rate and they frequently seem overpriced, it is advisable to learn what each exchange office’s rate is before choosing one that will be most lucrative. According to my observations, the most effective location for this type of cash exchange is near the entrance to the new Medina, on the right side, if you’re facing the Medina proper. During that time, in the winter of 2017, 1 EUR was equivalent to 10 AED (dirham).

Fez’s rates are comparable to those in other Moroccan cities, and the country as a whole is quite affordable. Prices for travel and lodging were already mentioned, but when it comes to eating, everything is pretty comparable. For instance, the cost of regional specialties and Moroccan presents like mandarins and dates is relatively low here (only 50 cents per kilo of each deliciousness). The price of manufactured goods is more than typical in Morocco, and they are primarily imported from Spain. It is advisable to eat locally in Fez since the price of everyone’s favorite Oreo in Moroccan expanses might reach 3 EUR. It is both strange and delightful.

Moroccan bread is roughly 25 cents, while water is 30 cents, as a pricing comparison. A sizable serving of chicken and couscous costs three euros. Moroccan tea costs around one euro.

Below, below “Food. Prices for food are listed under “What to Try,” “What to Do,” and “What to Bring as a Gift.” “prices for pertinent topics are stated.

primary draws. What to watch

The historic Medina in Fez is the city’s sole and main draw. It is filled with markets and workshops that demand a lot of attention on every convoluted street. You can traverse these little alleyways by yourself, get lost, find a tiny area where people are forging anything from teapots to jewelry, and then ask them how to leave this Fez el Bali. Additionally, you can hire a guide who will show you locations that are completely hidden from the average tourist’s view while also confidently guiding you through the Medina and imparting historical information. The tour guide might take you, for instance, to the bakery where they make exquisite Moroccan bread or the workshop where they paint wooden objects. There are several tour operators in Fesca, but it is best to deal with the trustworthy ones who frequently work in inns and hostels. Such a guide may charge 5 EUR per person for a 3-hour adventure in the fascinating Fez.

But Fez’s dye-houses, where hunched-over tanners treat and dye leather in an antiquated manner while standing knee-deep in vats full of different liquids, are its most remarkable feature. The procedure for dying leather is as follows: first, the leather is prepared by soaking it in lime baths, followed by a bird dropping solution, a lengthy rinsing in the dye, and finally, drying. The only natural ingredients used to make the colour are henna, turmeric, and other helpful ingredients.

A dye-house is uncommon to see in old Fez. As a result, Moroccan tour guides may be found anywhere along the road, willing to take you for a little price to the actual dye shops shown in “Clone.” They typically direct you to the leather goods shops, whose rooftops provide a great perspective of the world of tanners. They give you a sprig of mint to keep you fresh because the smell in these dyehouses is horrible, and they quickly explain how leather is made before persistently attempting to sell it to you in their shops.

Top 5.

1. Gateway. Both the old and new Medinas of Fez are enclosed by a wall with numerous gates, each of which is embellished with a distinctively colorful gate in Arabic design.
2. The Pretty Girls. Just above, I wrote about this important sight.
3. Al-Qarawin University Mosque. The name of this location, the religious-educational complex, refers to both the permanent mosque and one of the oldest universities, which was founded in the 9th century. Additionally, Idris II, the founder of Fez, is buried in Al-Qaraouin. Although this location is incredibly stunning, unfortunately not everyone is let inside. Only through the open doors did we catch a glimpse of its majesty.
4. the classrooms. Fez, however, is a city of artisans, and it is worthwhile to visit one of the many workshops that dot the enormous area of the old Medina.
5. Markets. The city’s markets are its heart, thus it would be foolish to ignore or avoid them. Avoid lingering, but also avoid rushing.

Beaches. which are superior?

Since Fez is located in the interior of the country and is consequently far from seas, oceans, and beach vacations, the question of beaches in Fez is not pertinent. However, Morocco is not as large as it first appears, and Essaouira, a lovely ocean city, is only 7 hours away from Fez. But it is a different story.

Things to do in a day

You may see, taste, and decide whether Fez is your city in a single day there. The most crucial thing to remember in Fez is to take your time.

• 5:00 a.m. – you hear the muezzins calling for prayer, feel it, and then go back to sleep.
• 8:00 – Definitely get out of bed, stretch, and welcome the new day.
• 8:30 – In anticipation of something exceptional, enjoy breakfast with a classic Moroccan treat on the riad patio or on the terrace overlooking the city.
• 9:30 – pack up and explore the Medinas of Fez by touch and careful observation, without maps, navigators, or other aids.
• 11:00 – Moroccan tangerines and mint tea as a snack.
• 11:30 – Purchase, personalize, and mail a postcard to yourself or family members back home to share your initial thoughts about Fez.
• 12:00 – Enjoy lunch at one of your favorite tajine or harira street restaurants.
• Find a knowledgeable guide to the old medina of Fez at 14:00, and together, see a different city that is hidden from the tourists’ gaze.
• 16:30 – Stop by one of the city’s natural wonders, with or without a tour guide, to learn about the process of such arduous labor, to be appalled by the scents, to recall Jadie from “Clone,” who ran among identical or similar vats to find love, and to take photos and make memories of the location.
• 4:30 p.m. – Take a break with some avocado juice, stock up on practical mementos, and practice your haggling.
• Return to the riad at 17:00 for dinner of marshmallows and oriental desserts on the terrace with views of the setting sun over Fez.
• Visit Cafe Barcelona at 18:30 to attend a performance of traditional Moroccan music.
• Visit one of the city’s top hammams around 19:00 to get a true taste of Moroccan culture.
• 20:30 – Take one last stroll through Fes to assess whether or not the city is charming.
• 20:30 – Encouraged by such a full and intriguing day, stay in Fez for a little while longer or purchase a bus ticket to the adjacent Chefchaouen and embark on a new adventure.

What to Try in Food

Like the rest of Morocco, Fez’s cuisine is primarily hot and fatty with little else. Moroccan cuisine is limited to just five dishes. In this article on Morocco, you may learn more about these five traditional Moroccan dishes: mint tea, tagine, couscous, harira, and Moroccan salad. And now I’ll discuss some other national culinary high points.

Moroccans typically eat fruit salad with yogurt for breakfast, a loaf of cheese and eggs with spices, a bun and cake that is similar to Soviet candies, freshly squeezed orange juice, and mint tea. Olives, olives, and delicious Moroccan bread could be another alternative for breakfast. Breakfasts like this are frequently provided in hostels as well.

The world’s most delicious mandarins, which only cost pennies, are abundant in Morocco. They can be purchased for as little as 50 cents per kilo in the endless markets of Fez. Tangerines are also frequently juiced and served on the Medina streets. A typical fruit grown in Morocco is the avocado, which is also used to salads but is even better when blended with milk and sugar to create an incredibly robust and tasty avocado cocktail. For 1.5 EUR, you can sample such a beverage at downtown eateries or street kiosks. In addition to wholesome fruits, Morocco also offers some very sweet and harmful oriental delicacies.

Another delicious and unique dish found in Moroccan cooking is marshmallow. It is a type of cake with chicken and peanuts that has a star of David-shaped topping of powdered sugar and cinnamon. You should try it. You won’t remain uninterested. Nearly all restaurants in Fez provide pastila, which costs 4-5 EUR.

Reccommended Locations

Nearly the entire area of Fes Jdid is littered with cafés and restaurants where locals and visitors may both eat and drink tea. There isn’t much of a price difference, but choosing one restaurant over another for lunch, dinner, or regular tea depends heavily on how friendly the proprietors and servers are.

We noticed the location just inside the new Medina’s main gate on the right. There is a father and son team that works there, and they both create delicious pastilles and are quite kind and multilingual.

On the new Medina’s main market street is another suggested location. A young Moroccan woman who always has a smile on her face works in the modest establishment and cooks a delicious harira.

Safety. What to be wary of

This post does a fantastic job of describing safety in Morocco as a whole. According to my own experience, Fez is not at all criminal, and safe Europe has just as many pickpockets and thieves. But as in other parts of Morocco, you should always be on the lookout and avoid placing your trust in Moroccans, who only occasionally offer assistance and only watch out for themselves. This is especially true of Fez.

Because my youthful companion and I were traveling together and he had an appearance somewhat resembling that of an Arab, he was always treated as one of us and I was not addressed directly as is customary in the Muslim world. And whenever I went out by myself, I was constantly the subject of intense, obsessional attention. As a result, traveling alone in Morocco is conceivable if you wear a headscarf, have courage, and disregard for extraneous details. However, it is safer for women to travel with male escorts in the Arab world. We encountered a couple of these brave people along the way.

In terms of exploring Fez at night, it is best to avoid doing so. In terms of cheating, I believe the Moroccans are quite shrewd and crafty, so they won’t do it right away. All relationships in El Maghreb are founded on trade, therefore finding an understanding and a compromise is always possible. It turns out that the capacity for negotiation is really strong. It is an artistic form. incredibly deft and clever. The foundation of Moroccan culture is this. Without negotiating, purchasing something can even irritate the vendor. Try to lower the price as a result, not just for profit but also for amusement.

Things to do

Hammam

In addition to taking countless strolls through ancient Fez and sampling every Moroccan delicacy, you may and should visit the hammam, or Arabian baths, in the city.

There are two distinct hammam types:

• expensive luxury baths with an Arabic design that are modeled like contemporary spas.
• Local Moroccans frequent the moderately accessible baths once a week, if not more frequently.

The initial choice Sincerly, I found it overly arrogant and tourist-oriented, and I rejected it. And when it came to the second option, I was unsure whether I required such an experience after hearing from more seasoned individuals about their unique dual perception of this hammam. I finally came to a decision. I decided on a location, got lost getting there, but I eventually entered the storied hammam. Two doors were in front of me. Women have their own front, whereas men have their own. A large space with high ceilings and seating along the walls was located at the entry. It was a dressing area. Moroccan women were stationed at the entryway and explained what the hammam was all about to me. You can simply show up and wash there, or you can get washed and even given a massage. I naturally consented to the second one. After all, washing oneself is nothing new. I had to haggle to get it for the 10 EUR that it cost.

When I started to speak, they escorted me to a another room that had lower but still impressive ceilings. Women and girls of all ages were seated on the stone floor of the room, dousing themselves in buckets of water. They placed me next to them and began washing me with a special black soap as I was surrounded by buckets of water. They scrubbed me so vigorously that I worried about my tattoo. It went well. After being cleaned and massaged, I was let go. I was overjoyed. Honestly! To begin with, I had never felt so pure. Second, it was a cool experience that wasn’t expecting, and third, and most significantly, it was something truly Moroccan.

Cafe

Along with the hammam, Fez is home to the curiously named Barcelona, a very contemporary Moroccan café. Although it appears rather conventional from the outside, the Arabic inside is really elegant. Traditional Moroccan music performances frequently take place in this cafe. The entrance ticket includes any free drink, however concert tickets cost roughly 3 EUR. The performances bring together the entire golden generation of Fez, which, as it turns out, is very similar to the youth of Europe: equally liberated and mobile. The only other location I saw so many Muslim ladies at once sans hijabs was in this cafe.

On Talaa Kebira Street in the new Medina, it’s a cool place. You can’t miss the cafe because it is very visible. By the way, this particular Barcelona cafe has reviews and pictures on TripAdviser.

Overall, the setting, the music, and the ambiance are extremely outstanding, and Fez appears to be seen from a new angle.

Souvenirs. How to choose a present

In terms of traditional gadgets, Fez is very similar to other Moroccan cities. When you leave the Oriental fairy tale, you can take them home as a memento, use them yourself, give them as a gift, or use them yourself. One thing: As we already determined, Fez is a city of leather people. Therefore, leather and all leather goods should be significantly less expensive in Fez than in other areas of Morocco. Remember this when trading because many businesspeople call extremely high prices with confidence and joy. For instance, in Chefchaouen I paid 9 EUR for a bag-belt, but in Fez they tried to charge me at least 20 EUR for it. The variation is substantial.

The primary traditional North African mementos are discussed in this article about Morocco. But I’ll discuss those below that weren’t mentioned in that piece.

• Oriental lighting. Everything that frames light, including lamps, lanterns, and candlesticks, is breathtakingly lovely in Morocco. Such lamps are appropriately regarded as one of the magnificent traditional Moroccan objects because of the multicolored teardrops, patterns, and shapes. They can be purchased everywhere. The cost is reasonable. Takeaway is more difficult than purchase.

• Carpets. Fes in Morocco carpets are also woven. Typically, they are made in the same location where they are sold. They skillfully entice consumers, explain and demonstrate the entire process of creating gorgeous carpets, and then they force them to buy something. Investing in carpets is undoubtedly worthwhile. Even if not where they impose, still. Each size is available. Excellent quality is present. They are much more valuable and less expensive than anywhere else in the world.

• Spices. In theory, this is both a required item and a wonderful keepsake. Moroccans won’t tell you not to eat them because they can’t fathom their dish without them. In addition to flavoring every food, spices also increase its usefulness one hundred fold. Turmeric, ginger, zira, paprika, and saffron are the chief spice monarchs. You can get each one by 100 grams for 4 EUR.

• Dates. Both dates and mandarins are abundant in Morocco. Additionally, they are affordable, tasty, and healthy. You can purchase a bag of vitamins for a few euros, then use them to make candies for your friends.

Along with some of the items mentioned above, I also sent my loved ones fashionable hooded sweatshirts with Berber patterns and a ton of argan oil and lotions for both body care and cookery. additionally brought them stories, sunshine, and joy.

How to navigate the city.

The best method to navigate Fez is on foot because the city is quite small and the Medina is home to all of its landmarks and intriguing locations. Additionally, no vehicle is allowed to enter the Medina.

Cabs. What unique characteristics

If you need to go from the airport to the city center or vice versa, as well as to the railway or bus station, taxis are a wonderful option. The journey will cost little and take approximately 10 minutes. At the hotel or hostel, the airport, the train station, or the bus terminal, you can inquire about the approximate cost of cab rides in advance. But you can reach your desired location for only 5 EUR. Payment is only accepted in cash. Although there are cabs waiting at every corner, there are occasionally organized lines of cabs that may be seen from one kilometer away.

Not just tourists use cabs frequently in Fes. Locals without cars willfully hail a cab, and savvy cab drivers pick up everyone they run into along the road as a passenger. Trips in the crammed cab are thus the norm rather than the exception. The fact that it’s enjoyable and authentically Moroccan is a major benefit.

Auto rental

In Morocco, renting a car is fairly frequent and simple. And Fez is no different.

You’ll need cash and an international drivers license to rent a car. Both domestic and foreign car rental firms are excellent. Only the latter can be significantly more expensive, but they are still more trustworthy. Regular automobile rentals typically cost 45 EUR per day, without taxes, mileage, insurance, and other fees. Click the link to view the cost of the vehicle in a Moroccan rental location that is convenient for you. In comparison to Europe, gas is also less expensive.

Holidays with kids in Fez

Large families with children traveling the length and breadth of Morocco are a regular sight. Fes, on the other hand, is not at all accommodating to the young visitors: there is no regular entertainment and even no interest in the city itself. But in Fez, you may take a vacation from the road for a few days, enjoy the sunshine from the terrace, and then go snowboarding and skiing in the mountains. Even if they are still learning how to do it, they adore it.

Ski getaway

Morocco’s Atlas Mountains have a ski season that runs from December to April.

Ifrane, a ski resort not far from Fes in Morocco, is among the greatest. Both a rental car and a CTM bus are options for transportation. It is stated that the mountains there are outstanding and suited for both beginners and experts.

The opportunity to enjoy these magnificent mountains is still in front of us, though! Enjoy your visit to Fez and the surrounding surroundings.

The first images that come to mind when Tangier in Morocco is mentioned are the place where the Strait of Gibraltar meets the Atlantic, Hercules’ dream before his next feat, and Tilda Swinton’s barefoot journey through the old medina in the film “Only Lovers Live.”

In the middle of the 20th century, bohemians came here in search of bloody experiences; the location where The Naked Breakfast author William Burroughs fled from the world. Whoever hung out here, including Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote,

By the way, Tangier in Morocco provided the exact ambiance for the classic film “Casablanca,” and Tangier’s Hotel El Minzah served as the inspiration for Rick’s Café’s setting.

There is a reason why Tangier in Morocco is arguably the least Moroccan of all the Moroccan cities. It was an independent international territory until the late 1950s of the 20th century, when France, Spain, and Britain had soft governmental control over it.

In 1956, Morocco declared its independence and seized a prosperous northern region. Following that, Tangier gradually lost a lot of freaks and expats, but some of the cool vibe from those times persisted.

Today, Tangier in Morocco serves as both a transit gateway connecting Morocco and Europe and the commercial core of the kingdom’s northern region. A once-significant port is now simply a harbor that receives ships carrying tourists from Spain.

Although tourism contributes significantly to the city’s budget, Tangier in Morocco rarely qualifies as a tourist hotspot. Just for fans of the city, it is peaceful and lovely.

In truth, Tangier’s ability to blend in with the surroundings and the general lack of concern for outsiders is what made me fall in love with the city. No one will know you are a stranger if you don’t glare excessively.

Getting there

Any mode of transportation, including land, air, and ocean, can get you to Tangier in Morocco. Unless you need to change planes in Spain, regular flights are available from any location in the world at the nearby airport. It is simple to get to Spain, France, or Italy on foot, by automobile, or by sea ferry from the southern region of Morocco and adjacent nations. Tangier is primarily the northern entrance to Morocco for tourists coming from Europe.

By air

Flying to the nearby Ibn Battuta airport is the best and most practical option.

There are a few possibilities from Moscow, with the Spanish airline Iberia providing the greatest combination of cost and time. A suitable route through Barcelona requires roughly 9 and a half hours of travel time, as does a morning trip to Madrid, which will take 7 hours and 40 minutes. Depending on the season, a one-way ticket will run you roughly $300 USD, give or take. No direct flights are offered. Even yet, there are already a number of direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg to the vacation destination of Agadir in the southern Moroccan country. Who knows, perhaps in the future it will be feasible to fly here as well. I believe Tangier Airport is capable of handling such a load.

Make sure to compare costs across all sources before selecting a date. On occasion, a ticket can be purchased for less on Expedia, and on occasion, as part of a seasonal deal, you can get a ticket for half-business class for the same price as an economy class ticket, which is identical to regular business class. I’ve had two occurrences like this, and I couldn’t be happier. Ticket information for Tangier in Morocco is also available here.

The city’s center is more than 15 kilometres from the airport, which is located just outside the city. Unfortunately, I was unable to locate any other reasonable transportation save a cab. You must therefore handle a transfer if you can.

Basically, there is a bus stop for route 9 at the intersection with the major road leading to Tangier, but it requires a long walk, so you have to wait and ponder whether there will be a seat before it arrives. I don’t think it’s worth it.

Greedy taxi drivers take advantage of this horrible situation and offer to carry you to the medina for 25 euros by chaining their outdated Mercedes (Downtown Tangiers). However, since we are in Morocco, we must right away shoot down. If you are persistent, you may be able to negotiate a price of 12–15 euros.

Another issue is that these drivers have no knowledge of Tangier in Morocco at all, necessitating constant route supervision. If not, you will be given a tour of the city. I once experienced the worst of luck. I was traveling with two cats and was dazed from the journey when the daredevil cab driver brought us, seemingly by accident, to a completely different location. From there, I had to catch a “small cab.” I want his tires would all lose air pressure.

Finding a low-cost aircraft to Casablanca (from 200 euros) and taking the train from there to Tangier in Morocco is the most economical option. Even if the cost of this journey will be less than that of a cab from Ibn Battuta, spending five hours in a car after a flight of between ten and fifteen hours is a unique experience.

via train

On the website of the ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer du Maroc), the country’s national rail operator, you can calculate the cost and travel time if you are already in Morocco. There are trains to Tangier from many cities. For instance, the trip will take around four hours and cost 95 dirhams ($9.5) from Rabat, the capital of Morocco (Rabat Ville Central Station – Tanger Ville).

The trains have two classes: first class, which has the designated seats, and second class, which costs half as much. There are sitting seats, six-passenger cabins, or open space. Trains with double-decker cars are available. The degree of comfort is a lottery, making it challenging to predict which train will arrive. If you’re lucky, you might get a free ride in an air-conditioned vehicle that is only partially occupied, or you might find yourself in a compartment packed with passengers who are carrying luggage and young children.

Light refreshments and snacks are passed around the carriages on long-distance trains. At train stations, unlicensed sellers occasionally appear; you should avoid purchasing anything from them.

You can always ask for assistance from ONCF staff members who are uniformed, many of whom know English.

There are no guarantees in train schedules. You shouldn’t demand timeliness from people in Morocco. They have the time, we have the clock. The train may arrive late or even early by up to an hour.

Tangier in Morocco has two train stations: Tanger Ville, which is in the city’s center, and Tanger Morora, which serves the city’s residential districts. You may stroll from the main station, which is rather clean and located in the center of the city, to respectable hotels, a residential area, and even the beach.

The station’s buffet is basic, but nearby are a “McDonald’s” and a full-fledged food court in the shopping center directly in front. Take two or three minutes to walk in the direction of the embankment from the station.

By bus

You can take an intercity bus from the major Moroccan cities to Tangier in Morocco, which can be even more affordable but also more tiresome if the bus is unlucky. It’s quite a distance from the major towns, and the road will become hell if you decide to save money and take a wreck. There are many carriers, and the costs and terms vary greatly.

Additionally in the center, close to the Mosquée Souria, is the bus terminal. You can take a 5 Dirham ($0.50) Petit Taxi or walk to the Cultural Center.

Via car and ferry

Ferries across the Strait of Gibraltar are the most romantic method to get to Tangier in Morocco. This is in case you choose to travel independently or by car from Europe to Morocco.

Ferries from Italy, France, and Spain arrive here. Prices vary based on the business and the distance. The cheapest option is from nearby Spanish Tariffs, which start at 35 euros one way (cheaper there and return), and take an hour to go.

This strategy is also appropriate for motorists; from Tarifa, a comprehensive ticket would set you back 162.5 euros.

What time is ideal for travel?

Tangier in Moroccois colder in winter than the north. Consequently, April to October is the ideal period to travel. The city is better prepared for the arrival of guests and swimming is already permitted on city and rural beaches.

It should be emphasized that all improvement work is done in the off-season, making it difficult to move around the city during the winter. There are renovations going on everywhere, the houses have scaffolding, and it’s noisy.

Ramadan (the month of required fasting for Muslims) in the summer may be a little different because few shops and café-restaurants are open. However, it is peaceful and empty, no one is on the streets, so you can go for a healthy walk.

Neighborhoods. best places to live

Naturally, you must select lodging in the center. There are parts of Tangier that have never seen a foreigner because the city is extremely large. Even with all the vibrant colors of real life, the unprepared traveler will feel a little uncomfortable in the sleeping ghettos.

Like all Moroccan cities, Tangier has two main districts.

• The vampires in Jarmusch’s movie strolled around Old Medina, a medieval city with an old fortification (Kasbah) and claustrophobic streets. Personally, I never encountered any vampires, and the spirit of William Burroughs only appeared once. However, there are a lot of shady characters offering various forms of insanity, including illicit substances and transactional sex. In Medina, there are many reasonably priced private hotels and pensions (double rooms start at $25), but I’d prefer to stay somewhere calmer.
• The cultural hub (Ville Nouvelle) is located between the city’s two main thoroughfares, Avenue Mohammed V and Avenue Mohammed VI, near the coast. The Place de France is the location that is closest to the train station. In addition, getting a cab is not difficult and you may walk to the beach. Apartment rent can be anywhere from $35 to $100 per day, depending on the amenities, service, and owner’s avarice. Be ready for the pricing to change if the landlord only speaks a little English. Bargaining is a possibility and is occasionally required.

If you’d like, you can book a package deal that includes a flight and a hotel at these prices.

On Bucking, where I typically book hotels, you can compare rates from other websites.

You should absolutely check that everything functions well before renting an apartment from a private person (options may be seen at this link). This includes the electricity, running water, and filled gas cylinders. Ask to be instructed on how to manage them. Hot water is heated by gas or in a boiler. You will undoubtedly need electric heaters and warm blankets in the winter because there is no central heating in the city.

primary draws. What to watch

Tangier will be appealing to individuals who enjoy urban travel, as I previously stated. There is a spot to walk around, but the sights are numerous. Go ahead without considering the map or GPS navigator (it’s cheating nevertheless because Google Maps in Morocco is a terrible advisor, has extremely poorly processed topography, and constantly causes confusion due to the varying toponym interpretations in different languages). Go there if it appears intriguing.

Medina’s past

To begin with, you must visit the Old Medina. It is unlikely to impress you much if you have already visited other Moroccan cities, but it is worthwhile to explore the labyrinths. Additionally, of course, to reach the stronghold.

The local guides will start offering you an escort as soon as they realize you are a foreigner and do so in shoddy English. They will try to upsell you and offer you no interesting information. It’s simpler to avoid all conversations altogether. Fortunately, you won’t get lost in the medina of Tangier and you won’t need anyone’s assistance.

The tomb of the famous traveler Ibn Battouta, who was born in Tangier and traversed the entire Arab world in the 14th century, may be found in Medina. The mausoleum is difficult to identify because it resembles an ungainly bulge on an old house, and just a little plaque identifies the location.

Marketplace

Medina’s narrow lanes seamlessly transition into the Grand Souk, a market that opens into the Grand Socco and is designated on maps as Place du 9 Avril 1947. (Place du 9 Avril 1947, named after the speech of Mohammed V for the independence of Morocco).

You can purchase affordable, delectable fruit, quality meat, sweets, and nuts at the market. Some stores are stocked with domestic products, others with fake goods, and still others with a ton of bizarre trash. The more straightforward peddlers spread out their wares directly on the pavement on a newspaper.

Although there aren’t many tourist shops, each one makes an effort to stock every Moroccan item that can be imported, including carpets, scarves, leather products, souvenirs, and trinkets. The pavilions of these stores are typically spread out over many floors, with a restaurant on the top terrace, where you can have a pricey meal while taking in views of the city’s rooftops.

Museums

While exploring the stronghold, you should stop by the Kasbah Museum, which has a lovely sultan’s garden and is a nice spot to meditate. Entry costs 10 dirhams (1 dollar). Open Monday through Tuesday from 9 to 16 at Place de la Kasbah.

The Musée des Arts Marocains and des Antiquités is a great place for fans of antiquities (Museum of Moroccan Art and Antiquities). It is located in the Sultan’s Palace of Dar el Makhzen, which is on the same square as the Kasbah Museum. The palace itself is interesting to view as a superb representation of Maghreb culture, complete with mosaics, Arabic designs, and various architectural wonders. If the museum is open, you can also see antique carpets, weapons, national costumes, and ordinary items in the hallways. There are no guarantees during the official hours of 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The museum occasionally closes without warning.

The Old American Legation Museum is located at 8 Rue d’Amerique right next to the Old Medina. It serves as a museum and cultural hub. Here, you can learn about how the United States influenced Morocco’s course in addition to viewing a number of historic maps, prints, and documents and Moroccan contemporary art. The organization hosts a variety of seminars and conferences as part of its cultural goal and awards grants to deserving Moroccans. A guided tour costs 50 dirhams ($5) and admission is 20 dirhams ($2). The museum is open from 10 to 17 on Monday through Friday and from 10 to 15 on Saturday.

Visiting Streets

Walking is enjoyable in Tangier. Start your walk on the bustling Mohammed V Avenue and proceed in whatever direction you can see. There are shopping avenues like Avenue México that are lined with a variety of amusing shops, fruits, and sweets. There are cafes and restaurants for every taste and budget on every corner.

You may reach the Route de Tetouan by ascending the uphill streets from the train station. It’s worth admiring the antique bullring while looking out over the city and the strait from the hill (Plaza De Toros). The Spanish bullfighting enthusiasts who spent ten years building it ultimately opened in 1950. However, the arena has only been in operation for a short time because the Moroccans who took control outlawed this gory entertainment. Since then, Tangier’s enormous arena—which was already in very bad shape—has merely served as one of its embellishments.

It’s pleasant to stroll along Avenue Mohammed VI’s seafront promenade. The city’s new architect has chosen to demolish every outdated waterfront enterprise in favor of brand-new, contemporary ones as part of a current, extensive restoration. Let’s see what happens.

• Malabata is a wonderful area to stroll through. Great views of the sea, lots of adorable cafes.

But the coastline on the Mercala promenade, which is behind the harbor, is the most stunning (Route de la Plage Mercala). The wealthy locals’ houses and palaces are located on one side of a steep hillside, alongside the ruins of an old fortification, while the turquoise sea is on the other. In this area, lovers wander, cyclists compete, and athletes run. The Mercala leads to the identical beach, which is small but vibrant.

Beaches

Urban or suburban, all of Tangier’s beaches have a bit of a wild feel to them. There is no infrastructure, no public restrooms, no changing rooms. You can handle it however you like. It is sometimes required to immediately agree on a price and place an order with them because the separate service may occasionally deliver a bench and an umbrella from a neighboring cafe.

However, during the season, there are a lot of private businesspeople on the beach who provide food and drinks, offer to take visitors for rides on horses, ponies, or camels, and even try to sell them illegal goods.

• From the harbor to the hotel district in Malabat, the city beach encircles the whole downtown area. It is conveniently reachable on foot as it is situated in the center of Tangier in Morocco. You can locate your favorite spot in its huge region. For instance, I enjoy going near La Veranda Cafe because it has fantastic waves, is serene, and doesn’t have a lot of Moroccans milling around aimlessly.

The natives prefer to take a quick bath while still wearing their loose clothing and sit on the shore rather than swimming. Or stroll back and forth seeing the foreigners lying in the sun.

Although these looks are not very menacing, it is nevertheless best to avoid them lest they bore a hole in you.

The beach of Merkala is a little out of the way, west of the harbor. You can take the scenic promenade in the Petit Taxi for 10 dirhams (one dollar) to get there. The beach is pretty lovely and is situated in a gorge.

All of the nearby beaches are sandy and ideal for swimmers. There are some locations where foul-smelling rivers empty into the ocean; it is best to avoid them. However, everything is generally in good shape.

For ocean waves, you must travel far from the city to Achakar, which is located around 15 kilometres from Tangier. This vast coastal beach has historically been undeveloped. Nice surf and sand. There is a slight overpopulation of locals on weekends. A number of cafes with awnings are located across the street, offering a variety of tasty snacks.

In back of the Jardin Iberia, there are taxis parked that go to Ashakar (Jardin Iberia). The color green makes them easy to spot. Six people can fit in one car, and the one-way fare is 10 dirhams ($) per person. It takes 15 to 20 minutes to get there.

something to look out for in the area

The biggest tourist destination in Tangier in Morocco, the Grottes d’Hercule, is highly recommended. Because they are close to Ashakar Beach, you can mix sightseeing with some downtime. The least expensive option is to take a “green” taxi for $1 per passenger from the parking area close to the Garden of Iberia. There should be a sign instructing the driver to drop off at the grotto, the cave before the beach.

Legend has it that the mythical hero Hercules, also known as Hercules of the ancient Greeks, slept in this cave between the tenth and eleventh exploits. After taking a nap, he walked to the lovely garden to take the golden apples.

The cave is roomy, bright, and tidy. Visitors snap photos and post them right on to social media. One may take in the ocean view from the internal observation platform. If you look closely, you may see that the hole’s outline somewhat mimics the outline of the continent of Africa.

There are eateries, gift stores, and restrooms outside. You can descend to the lake by way of a steep staircase. It costs nothing to enter the cave.

El Mnar is another location that merits a visit. Using a minibus or the bus route 16 from the train station, you can travel there from Casabarata. The small taxis won’t take you there, and the driver will rip you off if he wants to make some money. The minibus is $4; the bus is 3.5 dirhams (35 and 40 cents respectively).

The remnants of a medieval castle, a lovely lighthouse, and a well-kept park with a fantastic water park may all be found at Mnar. The water park is open all year long. Prices for tickets start at 100 dirhams ($10).

Food. Things to try

Tangier’s cuisine isn’t all that distinctive from that of the rest of Morocco. Fast food and traditional Moroccan cuisine are the two types of food served in cafes and restaurants.

Tajine, couscous, and harira soup are traditional Moroccan foods.

• Tajine: Tajine is prepared in a pot with the same name that has a cone-shaped shape, which contributes to the dish’s distinctive flavor. There are countless combinations of various meats and vegetables that can be cooked in a tagine; the flavor is dependent on the cook’s creativity and competence. Since Moroccans can name any hot dish a tagine, it is best to try to determine what you are ordering from the description.
• Couscous: Unleavened porridge called couscous is served with cooked meat, veggies, and thick gravy. Couscous is my personal favorite, and I usually order it. In restaurants, a hot dinner starts at 40 dirhams ($4″), but it is less expensive for locals in real cafés.
• Harira: A thick, spicy Moroccan soup called harira costs 10 dirhams (one dollar).
• Pizza: Pizza, shawarma, paninis, and hamburgers of all varieties rule the fast food world. Usually, the dish is served with French fries. There is no such thing as quality; even in the same location, a dish’s flavor may change. Therefore, there is no assurance that the next time you will have the same experience even if you have ever had the best shawarma. Cost of shawarma is 20–25 dirhams (2-2.5 dollars).

You must always drink spicy coffee or mint tea. It makes the meal authentically Moroccan, and you won’t find such fragrant drinks anywhere else! Traditional teapots or mint-filled glasses are used to serve tea. A glass is used to serve coffee. It’s somewhat unusual.

The server will pour tea from a teapot into a glass from a height of roughly half a meter if he wants to impress a special guest. This will cause tiny bubbles to form on the drink’s surface. The Moroccans are quite proud of them for whatever reason.

About 10 dirhams are required to enjoy all of this.

Safety. What to watch out for

Although I have heard countless horror stories about how my friends have been terrorized with penknives and one of them was stolen, I have never personally experienced Moroccans acting aggressively.

In general, the populace is cynical and narrow-minded. In general, not many people in Tangier in Morocco give a damn about visitors. Dopey beggars are the only unpleasant experiences, but it’s easy to get rid of them. Girls should probably avoid exploring the Medina alone at night.

You can call for assistance if there is difficulty because enlisted soldiers armed with assault weapons are patrolling the beaches and the historic section of the town.

However, in the most dire circumstances, shouting “Aled!” (Fr. à l’aide! – assistance) will cause the offender to disappear. The people of Morocco are cowards. You must firmly state “Safi” if someone is obtrusively bugging you with their company (enough is enough).

Taxi drivers caution against using pricey smartphones while driving. They claim that the boys took them from the open window.

However, in general, Tangier in Morocco is safe.

What to do

Posters posted throughout the city advertise the occasional exhibitions and events held in Tangier’s libraries, cultural centers, and art galleries. Additionally, postcards announcing activities are displayed in the windows of tourist attractions. Summertime, when the city is bustling with visitors, is the height of cultural life.

Weekend performances by local or visiting celebrities are held on a stage that is built up on the promenade near the beach during the tourist season.

Every season, the Luna Park, a popular hangout for locals and tourists, bustles and sparkles next to the train station.

The Cinémathèque de Tanger, a cinema museum of sorts for intelligent expats and smart girls, is located in the Cinema Rif on 9 April 1947. You can see vintage American movies with French subtitles on Sundays. Prices for tickets begin at 20 dirhams ($2).

Gambling enthusiasts will also have fun. There is a casino at the Mövenpick hotel in Malabat. The minimum wager is 20 dirhams ($2) for roulette and 100 ($10) for cards.

It is important to note that prostitution and gambling are both permitted in Morocco. Of course, you must exercise extreme caution in both situations.

Shops and Shopping

In Tangier in Morocco, where private enterprise is encouraged, practically every home has a small shop where you can buy things like food, cigarettes, scratch cards to top off your mobile phone, household goods, and even souvenirs. Additionally, gas cylinders can be changed here.

Along with these shops, there are a number of huge chain hypermarkets, including three “Acima” stores and two “Marjane” stores. There, you can buy practically anything.

There seems to be an odd pattern. For some reason, you cannot find particularly personal hygiene products, like condoms and tampons, in the big department stores. These allegedly shameful products must be purchased via pharmacies, of which there are plenty. Thankfully, they don’t require a prescription to give them out.

Recently, MEGARAMA, a contemporary shopping center, built across from the train station. There are numerous stores with both well-known and obscure labels, as well as a supermarket, a movie theater, a playground, and a food court.

People from Tangier and the other villages began to travel great distances to visit the mall. The location is packed on the weekends. Visitors who are well-groomed and have groomed children wander around the mall like they’re in a museum, gawking at the vibrant windows and being alarmed by the escalators.

A must-see is Casabarata in addition to the bazaar in the Medina. It is accessible via a shuttle bus that stops close to the bus hub or a small taxi.

A flea market, household products, mementos, and device repair are all available. You can, at the absolute least, take full advantage of Morocco’s retail culture. It’s difficult to barter for domestic items because they are so cheap and you have to knock down half the price when purchasing tourist goods. Traditional sweets are abundant in the food aisles. Even if you choose not to purchase anything, they give you everything to try, so you will leave satisfied.

In Tangier, there are small shops that sell alcoholic beverages, defying predictions of an outright prohibition. There are also condoms, by the way. The costs are really significant. It appears from the purchasing process that you are purchasing something really risky. The bottle is packed in an opaque plastic bag by the vendor after being wrapped in many layers of newspaper. He appears to be a part of a dreadful crime.

Being inebriated is not punishable, but you should still be aware of your limits.

Nightlife and clubs

The cultural life in Tangier is fairly confined because of its seclusion. In the clubs, amateur bands with no voices or awful DJs perform. It makes sense that the locals prefer to watch soccer games while sipping mint tea. However, there are also the odd good concerts, usually when well-known or foreign artists happen to be in town.

Some nightclubs are better avoided in order to protect your sense of attractiveness. They are filled with vice and vulgarity, and a sober person has no place there. Such locations can, nevertheless, easily be identified by their façade. Bright neon lights, grumpy security personnel, and easy-going females at the door.

Good youth organizations exist, like Tabadoul on Magellan Street (19). It’s a location where unstructured youth gather, guest bands perform, and fairs and exhibitions take place. It costs between 50 and 150 dirhams ($5 and $15) to enter.

Which present should I bring?

Everything you typically bring from Morocco is available in the souvenir shops and supermarkets in Tangier in Morocco. Perhaps the souvenirs are a touch rougher and the leather products a little more pricey than at Marrakech or Fez. However, in general, the typical selection of presents is accessible, including carpets, scarves, bags, national attire, tea sets, hookahs, ceramics, and other tourist trinkets.

Perhaps you ought to focus on locally produced goods in Moroccan supermarkets. You may purchase a tagine or a Moroccan teapot in Marjane for a reasonable price. Additionally offered are textiles and rugs. I advise purchasing the well-known Moroccan tea and coffee with spices out of all the available products. So to say, bring a little bit of Morocco with you. If you enjoyed the soup at Harira, you may purchase it from a retailer; it won’t be any worse than the soup at a pricey restaurant.

There are a lot of imitations of popular brands in Morocco. This vice is notoriously prevalent in the Third World, but in this region it has outrageous proportions. In any other nation, you would notice “Abidas” and go on your way. Real masterpieces can be found here, including massive Swatch Omega wristwatches, Apple Gucci jeans with a bitten apple on the back pocket, and Louis Vuitton wheeled shopping bags. These searches might be worthwhile if you have the slightest interest in pop art. I haven’t seen trash like it anywhere else.

How to navigate the city

Cab

Cabs are a convenient and reasonably priced mode of transportation in Morocco, unlike many other nations. This firstly relates to Petit Taxi city cabs. Small vehicles in Tangier are the hue of a sea wave (in Agadir and Fez – red, in Rabat – blue). The Petit Taxis have meters; it costs Dhs 1.60 and 2.40 at night ($0.16 and $0.24, respectively) to hail a cab in Tangier. It should be noted that rates vary in other Moroccan cities. The entry-level fare is 5 dirhams (50 cents). You may travel to any location in the city, even the most remote ones, for under 20 cents. There are three people in the car, and the driver has the option of picking up a hitchhiker.

It’s best to avoid using the big cabs (Grand Taxi), which are typically old, damaged Mercedes, throughout the city. They have outrageous prices and have no knowledge of the neighborhood at all. However, they may also be advantageous, for instance, on out-of-town travels. Six to eight persons can fit in the cabin, making a trip by rail to a faraway place reasonably priced. A car costs 300 dirhams ($30) to travel to the Spanish territory of Ceuta, which is roughly 80 kilometers from Tangier in Morocco. If you divide this cost by the number of passengers, you get a penny.

Buses

Regular ALSA buses can also get you to Tangier; a network of routes successfully connects the entire city and its outskirts. You can get a long way for the price of 3.5 dirhams ($0.35), which is the fare. You can get from Casabarata to the town of Mnar, which has a water park and a stunning lighthouse, by using bus number 16, for instance.

On some routes, particularly long-distance ones, there are unofficial shuttles. A group of enterprising men send their minibus directly in front of the bus, yelling loudly to attract possible passengers as they go. The cost is four dirhams (40 cents).

Auto rental

The range and costs of the available rental automobile.

Essaouira in Morocco—what other names could this lovely city have? However, whichever name is used, it has a stunning sound, and when translated from Arabic, it appears to imply “how wonderful.” The name of the city has been pronounced in a variety of ways as a result of the intricate and varied translations from the original Arabic into all major world languages. As an illustration, Essaouira is the name given to it by Americans, Europeans, and others. However, because I was with a European, I have decided to refer to this location as Essaouira in Morocco.

Before I met Essaouira in Morocco, all I knew about the city was that I was perplexed by its names and had seen a few pictures of the port city on Instagram. Essaouira is a port city, an Atlantic neighbor, and going forward, my preferred African city. The saying “the lower the expectations, the more the shocks” is true. Essaouira astonished and pleased me, which is precisely how it turned out for me.

The Portuguese, who once owned the city, left their stamp on the fortress’s construction and the city’s European character. By the way, Daenerys used the fortress as the city where she purchased slaves for her army. I’m sure “Game of Thrones” fans will comprehend me.

Essaouira was the “Mecca” of the hippies in the 1960s as they submerged the city in unbridled freedom.

Essaouira in Morocco is currently a mestizo: an amalgam of the East and the West.

The air in the city is easy and lovely to breathe, smells like the ocean, sounds like screaming seagulls, and tastes like fresh seafood.

One day, I want to move to Essaouira in Morocco and start practicing yoga, listening to music, and surfing. In this city, it’s also impossible to not be in love—with myself, Essaouira, and the other person!

Where are you going?

Essaouira can be reached in a number of ways, but none of them are practical unless you fly, take a bus, or drive a car your own, rented, or passing.

If you’re traveling from anywhere in the world, the ideal choice is to fly to Casablanca or another significant Moroccan city with links to or even stops in a nice region of Europe, and then take a bus or go on your own from there to Essaouira in Morocco. Flying to Spain, taking a ferry to northern Morocco, and then taking a bus or a car to Essaouira are more options.

By air

The 18 km away Essaouira Airport offers both domestic and international service. As a result, flights to the port city are available from both Eurasia and other Moroccan capital cities. Wizz Air, easy Jet, airBaltic, Meridiana, Air Moldova, Airoflot, Royal Air Maroc, Turkish Carriers, and other airlines fly from Moscow alone, but they require two connections to get at least anywhere in Europe, taking 20 to 30 hours of travel time, and costing 150 EUR for a one-way ticket. Only twice a month, these flights also call for a change of airports at some transfer locations. You must acknowledge that we cannot consider this as an option! We can’t fit everything in, since it’s so brief!

Another alternative is to take a 200 EUR six-hour journey from Moscow to Casablanca and then a direct flight from Casablanca to Essaouira. The one-way ticket costs roughly 80 EUR and takes about an hour and a half. Although you’ll save time, you won’t save any money. Only Casablanca has nonstop flights to Essaouira in Morocco.

If traveling by plane is still the best option for reaching Essaouira in Morocco, the helpful website Vandrouki frequently lists fun and affordable methods to reach Arab Africa. For instance, below is a list of flights for December 2017: Only 100 EUR roundtrip for four flights from Tallinn to Milan to Morocco. However, you will be dropped off in Fez, Morocco, and everything is close by, including Essaouira at your feet and transportation options like buses and trains. For residents of St. Petersburg, Tallinn is very accessible and reasonably priced. Additionally, you may find the most convenient and affordable flights here.

Getting there from the airport

From the airport, you may catch a cab to the city center for about 4-5 EUR.

via train

Getting to the port city of Morocco by train is not an option because the country’s superb train service is only available between major towns like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Tangier.

By Bus

Bus travel to the lovely Essaouira is a cheap and practical choice. The port of Essaouira is somehow linked to almost all significant and notable Moroccan cities. Two businesses, CTM and SUPRATOURS, provide bus service. From cities like Agadir, Casablanca, Marrakech, and others, both take direct buses to Essaouira.

We traveled from Marrakech by bus. The journey lasted three hours, and each passenger’s ticket cost roughly four euros. It was inexpensive and quick. However, unlike many others, we rode a local bus instead than a commercial tourist bus, which allowed us to save 4 EUR apiece. And it turned out to be true since we had originally planned to hitchhike to the port town, but we were unsuccessful in doing so. Instead, the bus full of Moroccan revelers boarded before us, and the conductor man leaned out and yelled: “To Essaouira, 40 DH! Get in.” After exchanging glances and nodding in agreement, the bus picked us up and drove off toward the ocean.

In terms of commercial bus pricing, a bus from Marrakech costs 8 EUR, which is twice as much as a typical, jovial Moroccan bus. I’m not familiar with the costs in the other cities. However, for instance, we took a local bus from Essaouira to Casablanca again, and it cost us 7,5 EUR, whereas a commercial one would cost about 15 EUR. Overall, there is a noticeable difference, but the costs are still reasonable, and the buses, having spent some time in Spain, are quite up-to-date and comfortable.

Directions from the bus terminal

You can walk 700 meters to the ocean, the Medina, and all the delights of magnificent Essaouira from the bus terminal, where every bus stops. You won’t need a cab, and walking will be fantastic for meeting new people and getting your bearings in the city as well as asking them for directions to the places you want to see.

By car

Owning or renting a car is the most practical alternative for independent travel since it is constantly available. You can attempt to travel from Russia to Essaouira via Europe, or you can immediately get a four-wheeler in Morocco. Both possibilities are plausible, but the second is more pertinent. Many individuals in Morocco, primarily Americans, are used to this type of transportation. But this travel choice also appeals to our people. Morocco has both paid and free roads, all of which are excellent. And as for renting a vehicle, you may do so by doing it through the websites of rental businesses (like this one), or you can do so once you get in Morocco by haggling with locals for a price. cheaper rental vehicle.

Unfortunately, I don’t yet know how much gasoline, rentals, and roads will cost. I still have a driving trip to Morocco to go:

via ferry

a seaside city that is inaccessible via ferry. It’s for the best, too! Otherwise, tourists would not have been able to reach Essaouira and it would have lost its allure and seaside gifts. Let’s only a little, but this picturesque town is still inaccessible. Additionally, it is simple to go by boat from Spain to Tangier, a port city in northern Morocco. The article about Fez has more information on it.

What season is it? What time is ideal for travel?

Esauir has a subtropical climate, with summers that are frequently hot and muggy and mild winters. The period is thought to be more like summer than winter. The vast ocean and the Gnahua music festival (learn more about the event in the section below on holidays) are probably to blame for everything.

Summertime in Essaouira

The season is summer. merely warmer. Essaouira can reach +33 °C during the day and only drops to 28 °C at night. Additionally, the ocean is currently roughly +25 °C warm. Only the wind, the Gnahua festival, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and a positive attitude can save you.

Essaouira in the Fall

Essaouira experiences a gradual dip in daytime temperatures from +30°C to +25°C during the fall, while nighttime lows hover around +25°C. In the meantime, the ocean warms, to the delight of both surfers and the typical American who doesn’t surf. Esauir, in my opinion, is fantastic in the autumn.

Springtime at Essaouira.

Essaouira has a three-month spring: 20 degrees in March, 25 degrees in April, and 30 degrees in May. That is the temperature during the day; the evenings are only five degrees cooler. In the spring, the Atlantic heats to a comfortable +20 degrees, and swimming is possible. Essaouira can be explored at its best in the spring, and the Gnahua music festival frequently takes place in May.

Wintertime in Essaouira

What a wonderful winter we have—17 degrees! In addition, Essaouira offers perpetual joys in the shape of the city’s summertime mood and access to the seaside nearby.

Essaouira, we entered winter exactly, really enjoyed it, and I even overheated in the sun.

Swimsuits are rare, but sandals and dresses are essential. Even though the ocean was warm (+18 °C), we did not dare to swim in it.

The winter is also extremely nice at night, with a temperature of +10 °C and no heating, but with the sound of the sea and the birds, one may fall asleep soundly and sweetly.

Neighborhoods. Where is the ideal location for living?

If you trust the symbolism on the maps, Essaouira, one of the lesser Moroccan cities, is the only one that resembles a seagull with its wings open. Similar to how Spain is represented by a shirt or Italy by a boot, Essaouira is likewise represented by the seagull, which serves as its own unique symbol.

Seagulls are everywhere in the city because it is a seaport, but for economic reasons, people choose to live closer to seagulls than seagulls do. Essaouira’s riches include two expansive, luxurious beaches, and the remaining portion of the coastline is populated by homes and people yearning for the sound of the waves and the smell of the ocean.

As for the city’s districts, they are only split into the ancient and new areas of town, exactly like most other Moroccan cities. The new section is still relatively young, while the first half has long been known as the Medina.

The most essential features of the Medina are its long history and all aspects of city life. It also has many unique and lovely things. The new one has a lot of avenues, residences that are fairly tall, roads, a bus stop, and the typical urban bustle.

The Medina, whether in Fez, Chefchaouen, or Esauir, draws all foreign visitors for whatever reason just because they are in Morocco. And until the very last second of their stay in the city, this force remains in effect. So it appears that discovering a new area of the city is simply impossible. And whether it stems from a strong desire to return to the city more than once and then to see everything, including every avenue of the new Essaouira, or from the fact that we, as civilized people, want so much to be in silence and calm for a while.

Everything is carefully considered when it comes to urban dwelling. There are accommodations for all preferences and abilities in both the new and the old. A double room costs 16 euros, a mansion costs 350 euros, and a hostel costs 5 euros per night. On Booking, you can make a reservation in advance and compare prices.

The beaches, the harbor, and the bus terminal are all close by, and if you’re visiting Esauir for the first time, stay in the Medina to really immerse yourself in the ambiance of the city.

based on my own experience.

In Esauir, we stayed at the cool and mysterious Atlantic Hostel. This hostel is reasonably priced, quite well-liked, but its most notable quality is its extreme energy. Local bystanders who pass by in Medina can help you locate it because it is situated there.

In actuality, this hostel is a part of another, whose name I’ve forgotten but which is located directly across the hall. Initially, we were staying there, but the circumstances were completely different from those of Atlantic Hostel; specifically, the hostel was more of a place for sleeping, which meant that it was only occupied at night. With music, chess, cards, a guitar, and the terrace, the Atlantic Hostel was bustling with activity and good times. With its small terrace, a hammock, and a person’s sleeping space right on the roof, the neighboring hostel appeared deserted and lonely. Although overall it seemed good, this hostel was also a sort of warehouse for surfers, so we moved to Atlantic Hostel.

The hostel’s staff members are kind and outgoing. The accommodations are cozy and nicely furnished in traditional Moroccan design. The hostel also has a kitchen, and once a week or so, Moroccan meal is prepared there. They prepare tajine, couscous, or something else, which is subsequently distributed among the group. It’s a terrific way to meet new people and learn about Moroccan culture. The hostel also runs a surf school with qualified instructors and all the necessary gear. Although we haven’t yet learned how to surf or tried it, we have a long way to go!

The patio at Atlantic Hostel is also a standout feature. It is large, fashionable, sunny, and equipped with a sea of sofas and cushions as well as a small bar with stunning views of the entire Essaouira In Morocco. The terrace is truly amazing, the coolest I have ever encountered, and if I had my way, I wouldn’t want to leave.

There is a breakfast available on the terrace every morning for 3–4 EUR, but you can also have breakfast on your own by purchasing adjacent fresh fruit and oriental sweets, then eating it all while observing the seagulls and enjoying the sunshine. In fact, we did exactly that.

In fact, even if you don’t like staying at Atlantic Hostel, you will undoubtedly find its patio to be interesting to visit.

How much does a vacation cost?

Prices! How much weight we give this subject! Additionally, Morocco is not a place where everything is permanent and stable. Morocco is a place where you may exchange or bargain on anything. Although there isn’t a system there, there are tourists, and certainly, that is what truly differentiates it. What costs pennies to residents costs rubles to visitors. And although it seems right, it’s not at all equitable.

One thing you must realize is that if you behave like a tourist, you will pay like one, and if you behave like a local, you will save 99 kopecks for more essential things. Arabs, after all, always get what they want and, with the aid of negotiation, arrive at a compromise. Really, there’s no need to complicate matters; both the seller and the buyer are interested in one another, so why shouldn’t they get to know one another? Overall, the vendor and the customer come to an agreement on the price in Morocco, and it is quite helpful and interesting to study such a system on Moroccan land.

And if everything else is equal, it is reasonable to pay for housing in the range of 3 to 5 EUR per night with the barest necessities and facilities, and you can eat filling and delicious food for the same price in any well-known but not too opulent Moroccan restaurant (about this below in the section what and where to try).

primary draws. Things to See

The best way to navigate Essaouira, the lightest city in Morocco, is to walk, breathe deeply, and keep your eyes open. The most crucial thing is to take your time, snap a ton of beautiful pictures, and smile at everyone you see. And the appeal can be found in even the smallest of particulars, like a particle of sand beside the Atlantic, a local child’s shoelace, or a seagull’s flight path. Keep an eye out and trust your gut!

Top 5

1. Port. Esauir Port is the quintessential real life of the city. There is a sea of blue boats, cheeky seagulls, fresh fish and Moroccan shouts. It’s a must-see, must-hear, must-feel!
2. Garden. Othello’s Garden Esauir is the only green area in the city, providing plenty of oxygen and energy for your upcoming walks.
3. Street vendors selling a wide variety of Moroccan crafts that are more beautiful to look at than they are to purchase.
4. The strange streets are hidden from sight. The best way to learn to know Essaouira in Morocco completely is to just go around the city and let yourself get lost in it.
5. Beaches. Where can you go without the Atlantic and the sands brought in from the Sahara? You can surf, swim, kemarize in the sun, picnic and count the stars there.

Beaches. which ones are the top.

Long, sandy beaches in Esauir have a gradual ocean entry and a constant breeze of freedom and change.

There are two such beaches in the city: one, known as Tagart, is close to the port on the Medina’s right side if you’re looking out to sea toward America, while the other is, if you believe the google map, virtually outside the municipal limits. To get to the second one, we had to walk for about 20 minutes past a local flea market, desolate beaches, and stunning ocean views. The beach was wild and empty when we visited in January, but it was also extremely lovely. All you can do at this moment on the beach is listen to the ocean, The beach was wild and empty when we visited in January, but it was also extremely lovely. On the beach right now, your only options are to enjoy the sun, grin at the sun, and fly in the wind. You can still surf (more on that below), catch waves, and have a driving picnic.

The beaches are undoubtedly altered and filled with various infrastructure at other seasons of the year, not to mention the influx of tourists looking for exotic African beaches.

But in my opinion, vacations on the Moroccan Atlantic are only worthwhile if you surf because the water is typically too chilly and windy for swimming and the sun is typically highly abrasive. It appears that in certain regions, an extreme ocean holiday is required rather than a traditional beach vacation.

By the way, camels frequently graze on Essaouira’s beaches and promote peace.

Things to do in a day

Essaouira in Morocco was our home for only five days, which was far too little time. Essaouira is one of those cities where you have to stay for several months or perhaps years to fully experience what it has to offer. But if you suddenly find yourself with just one day and one chance to fall in love with Essaouira forever, then follow the plan:

1. 6:00 a.m. – Welcome the dawn from the patio of Atlantic Hostel while getting to know the individual seagulls and identifying the proper wave.
2. Leave for the goat-climbers at 7:00. (read more below).
3. 9:00 – Make yourself a decent breakfast with local fruits, yoghurt, and a warm Moroccan bun outside on the terrace.
4. 10:00 am – Time to relax in the sun by the Atlantic on the city’s left beach while learning to surf or honing your skills.
5. 13:00 – Arrive at Essaouira’s port, purchase fresh seafood, and deliver it to the neighborhood smokehouse. Feel the sweetness of hunger and enjoy the flavor of the cooked fish.
6. 15:30 – Go back to Medina to stroll the streets and take pictures of the people there.
7. Following the buzzing sound, head to cane juices at 16:00 to relieve your thirst and go souvenir buying.
8. 17:00 – go around the town and follow the Esauir cats to the arcade (read more below).
9. Rent a bike, stock up on falafel pita and oriental sweets, and head to the beach on the right side of town for a lavish picnic to bid farewell to the blazing sun at 18:00.
10. The unending bright day in Esauir comes to an end at 21:00 when you return to Medina for a concert of Moroccan music at the magnificent central cafe (read more below). To ask myself why I would travel anywhere if I could stay in a city forever.

What to do and see in the area

Ever come across a goat climber? I haven’t either, but they claim it’s significant.

Goats in Morocco consume the rich argan berries that grow on the trees since the soil there is so dry. By the way, argan tree fruits are also very beneficial to humans. They are used in Morocco to create edible and cosmetic oils, as well as creams and other beneficial products.

And in the towns of Afra and Imzi, which are situated between Essaouira and Agadir, you can find these Moroccan goats grazing on trees (100 km from Essaouira). Although I’m afraid I can’t tell you how much time and money it will take, the best method to go there is either by car or cab. However, don’t forget to haggle the price of the journey.

Any hostel in Essaouira can actually advise you on the best possibilities. Sometimes they are closer to such communities than “how and how much to go to the goat-climbing attraction,” but there is no way to be certain.

The goats are free to be observed and there are no time restrictions, but you may only take pictures of them with the shepherd’s consent. In addition, be wary because some Moroccan shepherds may use such an attraction to make a sneaky profit.

What to Try in Food

Eating seafood is a smart move in a city by the sea! Essaouira in Morocco is incredibly generous with her seafood offerings, including rare species of fish and sea urchins. Have you ever had sea urchins for dinner? This is delightful, odd as it may be. For a penny, you can sample these urchins in taverns by the sea or in the city’s port. Although not everyone will enjoy such opulent delicacies, like me, you should definitely try them and enjoy them.

Like other Moroccan cities, Esauir also produces and sells cane sugar-based juices in addition to the sea. Although they are highly sweet, they are excellent for quenching thirst and improving mood. Juicer carts from those bygone eras are still present along the main street of the city’s medina, facing the ocean, and long green canes protrude from them on all sides. These machines whirr loudly, but they handle the canes quickly; after a few minutes, you have the juice for about 0.4 EUR in your pocket.

Esauir’s falafel is also excellent. They cook it everywhere, but the square in front of the port has the best. It cost me 1 EUR in a pita with vegetables.

A tiny bakery is also located somewhere in the medina. There are therefore delicious Moroccan cookies there. Even though we had a lot of stuff packed, we only paid 0.3 EUR for it all.

In addition to the bizarre Esauir cuisine, there is also the customary classic Moroccan cuisine, about which you may read here and here.

preferred locations

The most crucial aspect is to allow yourself enough time to sample the local fish. Additionally, pick only the most recent fish urchins, fish, and other living things that can be discovered in the Atlantic, straight from the sea, while they are still breathing. All of this is occurring in the port of Essaouira in Morocco, which is the city’s busiest and pungent-smelling area. A sea of different kinds of fish, an unceasing swarm of ravenous seagulls, and Moroccan traders attracting customers make this harbor special. Hone your trade abilities by picking the fish with the most alluring smile and the merchant. We spent about 3 EUR on three large, delicious fish.

Once the fish is in your possession, all that remains is to locate a harbor restaurant where the fish will be prepared. For a complete rack, they charge roughly 2 EUR. On the image below, you can see our fish with hot water. All three of our fish fit into one grill. Bread and water are delivered right there, and you may also request other Moroccan specialties, teas, and soft beverages. However, this location has two crucial features:

1. There are always a lot of people there, both locals and visitors, and it appears to be the sole location in the port. A table will become available for you with a little patience and some additional waiting.
2. The issue is that despite being cooked in a clean state, the fish doesn’t appear to have been washed and cleansed. When should you wash it? Since there is only one grill and we frequently have guests, it is simply not worth it. Nevertheless, don’t feel bad; omit the fish skin; you’ll save time and your stomach.

However, if you don’t want to go to the port or you don’t have much time, you can eat lunch or dinner in one of the ten (as far as I can recall) bars that are located near the port’s entrance. The waiters and cooks in the tenth tavern will all beg you to enter as soon as you approach the first establishment. Every Moroccan wants to make money off a foreigner, and there is fierce competition. In the taverns, everything is typically simpler but much more expensive. There are, however, numerous excellent discounts there. For instance, a basket containing a little bit of everything (fish, squid, shrimp, urchins, etc.) costs 10 EUR. The urchins we sampled there were extremely tasty, but the port and its regional quirks continue to rank highly.

Festivities

One must attend the Gnahoua Music Festival while in Esauir!

A blend of all things African, Berber, and Arabic, Gnaoua is a black culture that weaves together traditions, practices, and rhythms.

Every year, the celebration is held on the beaches of Essaouira in Morocco, in the Medina, and throughout the city’s cozier neighborhoods. Every year in May and June, Essaouira in Morocco bursts into music and revelry for three to four unforgettable days, for which people travel from all over the world.

With the beats of the drums, guitars, djembes, and other ethnic instruments, trance chants, and dancing all over the place, it must be very spectacular.

I already knew about this festival in Esaura, but I made the decision that I would return someday and take in this wonderful Gnaua.

The festival allegedly used to be a public, free event, but like many other things in the modern world, it has since turned into a business. Because of this, entry is not as affordable; a ticket for the entire four-day festival, for instance, costs roughly 60 EUR. Although it appears to be quite inexpensive, the essential thing is worthwhile! Additionally, it occasionally occurs for the spirit of the event to vanish as a result of commercialization. In any case, you must visit the Gnahua Festival to experience it for yourself.

Safety. What to be wary of

Morocco is not about 100% security. And you should exercise caution in Esauir as well as other African-Arab cities. Arabs can steal, but only with your express permission. It is obviously not worth it to leave stuff unattended or to have money sticking out of your pocket. He won’t stop to consider, he’ll just accept that an Arab is not a Korean. Things left abandoned are obviously nobody’s, thus they may be mine. I need it if you have money sticking out of your pocket because it’s not that pricey and significant. Essaouira in Morocco isn’t a bad person, but there is a lot of thievery.

Particularly with visitors and Moroccans selling hash browns, the city comes to life at night. Nearly reminds me of Amsterdam! The sellers, especially the Arab vendors, are constantly demanding and clingy. So simply practice patience and continue.

Things to do

Here are some other activities to engage in off the Atlantic coast in addition to daily strolls in the enchanted village of Esauir, surfing, eating seafood, and curiously observing rock climbing goats:

• Discover live music in a multi-story esauir bar every night. The bar’s name escapes me, although it is well-known and impossible to miss. A sign Live music will direct you. The music in this location is excellent and organic and melodious, despite the fact that it is a little touristy and obvious. Though it won’t be as inexpensive as at the dock or on the esauer streets, you can eat at the bar. Additionally, refreshments there such mint tea start at 2 EUR. The bar’s top also features a small terrace. You can hear the sounds and see the nighttime city lights from the terrace. Don’t let the chance pass you by!
• to locate the neighborhood casino, which was hidden in one of the city’s winding streets. There are constantly screams of victory coming from inside, and its doors are always open. There are often people playing billiards, foosball, and all types of machines there. Bright colors are used for the walls’ painting, but it has probably been a while since someone gave them a fresh coat. Nevertheless, the location’s style and toughness are enhanced by the peeling paint. While the local children and elderly men enjoy themselves there, we only visited once and by accident. Hundreds of thousands of cats were leading us there as they prowled the city looking for food and shelter. They are the best guides in town, so follow them. Who knows, maybe you too will be able to feel the energy of that magnificent arcade.

Extreme sport

Essaouira in Morocco treasure is the Atlantic, and a surfer’s paradise with its powerful winds and enormous waves. It’s all here in plenty, which explains why surfers from all over the world, including novices, amateurs, and experts, swarm the city from November to April.

In Esauir, traditional surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing are all trendy, well-liked, and quite cool.

Unfortunately, I don’t know much about surfing yet, but I do know that the best time to go surfing is from November to April, and that the best time to go kite- and windsurfing is from March to October, when the waves are smaller and the wind is stronger and sweeps everything away. To be able to fly and float at the same time must be incredibly wonderful!

On the beach in Essaouira, you can also surf or take surfing lessons, but the best spots, Moulay and Sidi Kaouki, are about 25 km away. I’m not sure how to get there, but it’s most likely only by themselves, either in a car or on a bike.

There are many surf schools in Esauir, one of which is at Atlantic Hostel, for individuals who, like myself, are novice to surfing. Everyone who attends this school is completely satisfied, the surf guys are extremely friendly, and all the equipment is available for rent. Unfortunately, I’m not aware of all the pricing either, so contact the hostel.

There are a number of surf shops in the Medina of the city, including one called Gipsy Surfer, where you can not only buy cool surf gear but also rent equipment, get a fantastic instructor, and even mend your surf, if necessary. By calling the shop directly, you may learn the costs for all of these treats.

Additionally, Esauir frequently hosts surf camps and trips. You can find helpful information on this subject here and here.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

From Essaouira, you can bring something with an ocean or musical theme, whether it’s a surfer board, albeit in the form of a craftsman keychain, or one of the classic Moroccan musical instruments.

• Surfer stuff.
• Musical instruments.

Additionally, I’m sure those who enjoy sticking stickers and patches to their laptops and backpacks will agree that the Esauir stalls offer the best selection. They cost 0,50 EUR each, and in my opinion they make great keepsakes from the continent where surfing and music originated.

• Essaouira style stickers and patches.

Essaouira in Morocco is also teeming with stores selling a variety of hippy and boho apparel. Essaouira in Morocco was once a paradise for hippies. So, fans of these fashions will find mementos of this kind to be quite appealing.

• Bohemian and hippie attire.

Additionally, Esauir has magnificent book stores with tales in every language spoken on earth. If you have a buddy who unexpectedly picks up Arabic, French, or any other language, bring him one of the countless Esauir books, and he will be overjoyed.

• Esauir writings.

Of course, there are a ton of other wonderful things in Esauir, but are they truly unique and Esauirian? There are flying carpets, alladin lamps, paintings, henna, a sea of spices, and dates, yet all of these things are also valued and well-liked in other regions of Morocco. By the way, you can read more about traditional Moroccan souvenirs here and here. Additionally, the argan trees—where the local goats graze—must be brought from Essaouira in Morocco(I wrote about it in the section “What to see in the area”). In addition to being sold as creams of every description, argan is also sold as oils, both cosmetic and culinary. The fruit’s value lies in its ability to regulate blood cholesterol levels, saturate a large amount of fatty acids, and impart the flavor of almonds and hazelnuts to dishes. Generally speaking, discussing the advantages of argan oil is like philosophizing; you should just try it and make it a regular habit as part of your eco-life. What a practical keepsake of the Esauir ocean, even though argan oil is readily available and only costs 1 EUR for a half-liter bottle!

• Argan.

How to navigate the city

How do I navigate the city? There isn’t a better way than on your own or by bike. The Medina is where the city’s most fascinating attractions are located, and as is customary, driving is not permitted there. As for renting bikes, it’s simple to do so at hostels and the main rental shop. You can also borrow a local Moroccan’s bike if you become friends with him, or you can get caught up in crime and steal one of the numerous fashionable bikes parked in the area’s winding streets. Of course, I’m joking, but who knows:)

Cab. What peculiarities are there?

In Morocco, using a cab is fairly easy and reasonably priced. Additionally, in Esauir, you generally won’t need one. Unless you want to take a cab and have it drop you off outside the city limits for hitchhiking, which is precisely what we did, to travel from the local airport to the city center or vice versa. You don’t need to worry about finding and waiting for a cab since as soon as a foreigner leaves Medina, a sea of cabs surrounds him. Additionally, there are always retinues of recognized yellow cabs close to the airports.

Only cash may be used to pay for cab rides, so it’s best to ask how much the journey will cost before you let yourself inflate the price. The Moroccans frequently overcharge, yet nobody cancels the bids here either. The short answer is that our “trip out of town to the highway” cost 3 EUR for two people. By the way, hitchhiking in Morocco is a great idea, so if you decide on the spur of the moment, do it anyway and you won’t regret it:

Auto rental

In Morocco, you can rent a vehicle. There, the car rental system is efficient and well-developed. You only need an international driving license and around 50 EUR each day, ignoring taxes, insurance, and other crucial factors, to join this system. Compared to European standards, Moroccan gasoline is comparatively less expensive. You can use this page to find out how much the car you’re interested in costs in any Moroccan city.

The most fabulous Moroccan town is said to be chefchaouen blue city, stretched between the Rif Mountains. I first got to know it in another sunny and wonderful Andalusian town, Frijiliana, a year before my Moroccan trip, when I bought there a very authentic notebook with pictures of blue beautiful doors on the cover and wondered where they were. So my curiosity led me to chefchaoune, the city of blue.

On the present site of the town, in the second half of the fifteenth century, Muslims established a fortress to protect their land from invading Portuguese. And later the place became a refuge for the Jews who had been expelled from Spain. It was they who enriched chefchaouen blue city with the emerald color. According to the Talmud, the Jews painted their houses blue, “the color of the sea like the color of heaven,” and thus brought them closer to the Almighty.

Now there are almost no Jews left in chefchaouen blue city, and the houses are still painted in all shades of blue, which attracts tourists.

And we were among the majority, so we came to this much-promoted town. Only it is not a city at all, but a small charming village. It’s very cozy and sunny, and people are incredibly smiling. If I were to live in Morocco, I would settle in one of the many blue houses in the vastness of chefchaouen blue city, trust in the measured sunny life and would definitely become an artist.

chefchaouen, as the locals call the town, is itself as if painted and rich in creative spirit, so you can often find people drawing, making something or just being inspired in the town.

We could not help feeling the overwhelmingly positive emotions of those who had already been in chefchaouen, and on the second day of our Moroccan trip we were in this legendary city and fell in love with it right away.

How to get there?

chefchaouen, as we have already established, is a village. And villages are notoriously tiny and exist through the nearest large towns, which one way or another must be crossed to get to glorious chefchaouen blue city.

There’s no way to get to chefchaouen blue city itself by air because the city has no air connections even with other Moroccan settlements. However, if you have winged acquaintances willing to give you a lift, then yes, this option will work. But from Europe… you can fly to Fez, Casablanca, Rabat, and from there it’s a stone’s throw from the long-awaited Emerald City. By the way, how to fly to Fez or Casablanca read here and here. On average the flight from metropolitan Russia (St. Petersburg and Moscow) to Morocco (Rabat, Casablanca, Fez) will cost about 200-250 Euro per one way and it will take you about 6 hours without regard to connection, complications, waiting. You can see the ticket prices for the actual dates here.

By train

Train service in Sheffshown is a problem, too. The town is in the mountains, and that was probably an obstacle for the construction of the railroad in those parts.

By bus

Bus is the best, and perhaps the only, way to get to Shefshauen.

CTM bus services connect the blue village with Fez, Casablanca and Rabat, as well as the small town of Tetouan.

There are no bus routes from Agadir or Marrakech to chefchaouen blue city. In this case, from these cities, it is best to go to Casablanca first and from there to chefchaouen.

• From Fez it will take three hours and 7,5 EUR for a one-way ticket.
• From Casablanca about 6 hours and 12 EUR.
• From Tetouan just over 1 hour and only 3 EUR.
• From Rabat it is 4 hours and 9 EUR.

Buses from Casablanca go only once a day, from Tetouan once five times a day and from other cities up to three times a day. You can buy tickets at the ticket office of the bus station of the respective city, and an hour before the departure of the bus itself you have to be at the place appointed by the ticket seller. Buses, however, always come exactly on Moroccan time, that is, late as they can, but this has its advantages: you can really anticipate what it really is chefchaouen blue city: a peaceful and harmonious. There’s no hurry in the villages!

The Moroccan buses are quite comfortable, the roads are excellent, but the views on the way to chefchaouen blue city are not so good, but they are worth seeing to compare them later with those you meet somewhere in the Atlas Mountains. The country is one, but the views are many, and each one, unlike any other, deserves attention.

The first place you’ll reach in Chefchaouen by bus is the bus station, which is located at the foot of the most interesting part of the city, the Medina. You can get to the city center either by cab or on foot. It will take you about five minutes by cab and will cost about 3 EUR, and about 20 minutes by foot because of the constant rises. We sticked to the second option and did not regret a bit. But when you leave the city (we found out that you can do it the same way you got to the city: only by bus) it’s like you are leaving the city by bouncing down the sloping streets from Medina to the bus station.

By Car

If you travel in Morocco by car, it’s very, very cool. The country is tiny and the roads, as I recall, are excellent. So it turns out that getting to Chauvin by car is the best alternative to the bus. There are roads to Chefchaouen from all Moroccan villages, but most often drive from Fez.

Ferry

You can not get to Chefchaouen by ferry, because the city is rich with mountains and a small river with a waterfall, but the sea and oceans are not about Chavin. But there are ferries to the coastal Moroccan cities (Tangier, Ceuta, Melilla) from which you can get to Chefchaouen with connections in large cities (Fez, Casablanca, Rabat) overland.

chefchaouen in summer

It can get pretty hot in the summer in chefchaouen, but even so, there are plenty of visitors at this time of year. On their way to the ocean, travelers also stop by chefchaouen to see if it’s true that it’s completely blue. They are surprised, convinced, and create proof in the form of lots of stylish photos of blue doors, blue walls, and even blue cats, and decide that the city is indeed beautiful and worth seeing. So then all these travelers come back to chefchaouen more than once or twice, but not in summer, to walk more in the city, not to hide from him in the shadows. Summer is summer, and not everyone is immune to it.

chefchaouen in the fall.

I don’t think the Chefchaouen blue city has any autumn in it. And there is no autumnal weather as such, when it rains, everything fades and the sun disappears until the next summer. And the mood, the kindest and most radiant, only increases. Perhaps the city is very good in autumn, but not because it’s autumn, but because it’s a city that doesn’t care about anything.

chefchaouen in spring

In spring, the city warms up to +30 degrees, but it can sometimes drizzle a little rain, refreshing Chefchaouen from that clear, hot sun. The local river and narrow streets allow you to hide from the heat, and at night it gets fabulously warm after beautiful sunsets. This time of year is one of the best times of year to explore Chavin.

chefchaouen in winter

Winter in chefchaouen is certainly cooler, but even at this time of year it is quite possible to get a tan. It’s up to +15 during the day, but the sun is always very welcoming and warming. And the nights are surprisingly warm and comfortable, which we lacked in Fes.

We had a chance to visit chefchaouen in winter, the deepest in January, but 100% it felt like we were in May.

Neighborhoods. Where is the best place to live?

chefchaouen, like many cities in Morocco, consists of an old and a new town. The old is always called Medina, but the new is so new that it does not even have its own name yet.

The Medina is the heart of chefchaouen, the most curious and charming place of this city. Everything that will make your impression of the city is in the Medina, so it’s best to stay in this area of chefchaouen.

You should definitely stay in a traditional Moroccan house called Dar or Riad. Both are very beautiful, cozy, with patios, terraces and a welcoming atmosphere. Another such accommodation in chefchaouen is often called just a house, which in Spanish sounds like Casa, and in French – Maison. Used in this case, mainly in Spanish and French, apparently, due to the past of the city, and at the expense of many immigrants from southern Europe.

In Chefchaouen accommodation prices range from 8 EUR to 150 EUR. For the first price you can stay for one night in a shared room with 6-10 beds in one of the hostels of the city called Dar, Riad, Casa or Maison. For the second price you can rent a house for one night with all the amenities and maximum comfort.

View the prices of apartments can be found here, and compare the cost of hotel rooms at the link.

From personal experience

During our stay in chefchaouen we stayed at a very nice family-run Moroccan house, La Casa Amina. Finding it among the emerald tangled streets wasn’t easy, but it was real. The house is quite modest, but very stylish in the Moroccan way: yellow and blue walls, wooden ceilings, patterned tiles and everywhere stunning photographs of the life of chefchaouen, taken by the eldest son of the owner of this house. The patio serves mint tea and interesting stories about the town 24 hours a day, and on the terrace you can bask in the sun and wonder what’s out there on the neighboring terraces. The place is really very homey and that’s why it is so sincerely recommended.

To stay at Casa Amina for one night in a room for two people costs 8 EUR per room, but without toilet and shower. The latter seems to be shared by everyone, but is quite comfortable. The house itself is small but always full of guests, so if you still look at this place to sleep, it’s still better to book, because wishing to live in Casa Amina is always quite a lot. Of the minuses of this house – the lack of breakfast, but one of the many pluses – the owners tell the most delicious budget places in chefchaouen, where you can and have a good breakfast and just eat good food. And the atmosphere of the house is still very warm and beckons to go back there again and again.

Main attractions. What to see

The whole town is one big attraction. In Chefchaouen blue city you have to walk a lot, notice everything and take a lot of pictures. The city is very photogenic. The doors alone are worth it!

Top 5

1. Plaza Uta el-Hammam. This is the main square of the city, dotted with restaurants, cafes, and in the center of the square there is a Christmas tree, around the axis of which local locals and tourists mixed up on the benches. The square is not so much remarkable, except for the people themselves, who now and again want to be photographed on the camera.
2. Kasbah. This is the same fortress that the Arabs built to defend their land from the Portuguese and around which Chefchaouen later grew up. The fortress settled on the main square and now serves as a museum of artifacts, the entrance to which costs about 2 EUR.
3. Ras el maa Park. The park is located outside the gates of Medina by the river. The park has mills, laundromats, a waterfall and arched bridges over the river. The place is very domestic, always lively and mischievous, and so strongly attracts all the curious.
4. Moroccan street graffiti. You can only find it by exploring every street in Chauvin, but it’s definitely worth it.
5. Viewpoint with a view of the entire Emerald City. It is located on the mountain, within walking distance of the river, next to the Spanish Mosque. All roads lead there, so you will not get lost.

What to see in 1 day

We stayed in Chefchaouen for three days, and that turned out to be as much as enough. But if you have only 1 day in this fabulous city, you need to walk around it, soak up the sun, take tons of amazing photos, get inspired, and come back again someday. And for one day, here’s the plan:

• 6am – greet the sunrise from the terrace of the house, sipping warm mint tea and smiling at the sunny day.
• 7 a.m. – get out on the emerald streets and wander around at will, fueled by tangerine juice from the stall.
• 10 a.m. – have yourself a brunch, snacking on Moroccan sandwiches and oriental sweets at a movie theater stall (read more below).
• 11 a.m. – find all the cats of Chefchaouen and capture them on camera.
• 12 noon – have tea and chat with the artists at a local cafe (read more below).
• Day 13 – find local street graffiti and take pictures of all the city’s most beautiful doors.
• Day 14 – eat couscous or something tasty at a local homemade restaurant (read more below).
• Day 16 – stock up on souvenirs, honing your trade skills.
• Day 17 – go out to the river, to Ras el maa park and dissolve in that atmosphere of life, childhood and freedom. Taking pictures of everyone smiling and basking in the sun at a cafe with colorful chairs, sipping avocado juice.
• At 7 pm to climb the observation deck, on the way to meet all the mountain goats, and at the very top to be amazed by the beauty of Chavin, so similar to the Albaicín of the Spanish city of Granada, say goodbye to the sun and the city until soon and go to meet new impressions.

Food: What to Try

Moroccan delicacies are well written about here and here, and you can try them all in Chefchaouen. Another must-try in Chefchaouen is avocado and tangerine juices. They are a great energy boost not only for the day, but also for the whole city. With that kind of energy, all the up and down the streets of Medina are effortless. Juices like these are good in a cafe by the river for 1,5 EUR and in the heart of the city, strolling with take-away juice from a stall for only 1 EUR.

For breakfast in chefchaouen, you can buy pre-packaged food in the streets of Medina or in any street café you like. You can have a hearty lunch or dinner in one of the city’s famous restaurants for an average of 10 EUR per person. It is also cheaper, but not as nourishing and tasty.

Recommended places

In our experience, in chefchaouen blue citywe found two highly recommended places to eat. The first is a house restaurant, very modest, delicious, quite for locals, but therefore so attractive to visitors that for lunch and dinner at this restaurant long lines are lined up. But it turns out that the upper floors of the building also belong to the restaurant, so there are enough places for everyone. What is the name of the restaurant and how to find it, I’m sorry, I will not tell, but all the locals know it, you will be recommended and told all where and how. Every Sunday there seems to be a couscous day, and there’s a great terrace at the very top.

Another place is a stall with Moroccan sandwiches and oriental sweets, very tasty, made by the stall owner’s mother. There are tables and benches in front of the stall on a slope and give the impression of an open-air movie theater with an endless movie of Moroccan fast food. The place is cool and the sandwiches are nourishing and even quite tasty and one of them costs 4 EUR, and sweets 0,10 EUR apiece.

Safety. What to beware of

About Moroccan security in general you can read in the article about Morocco. The article on Fez has a good description of Moroccan security by personal examples. And as for chefchaouen blue city, not only does the city seem safe, but it is actually very safe. chefchaouen turned out to be one of the few cities in Morocco where even night walks were quite pleasant and comfortable. The only thing that might be disturbing or annoying are the Arabs obsessively selling hashish. So Morocco teaches patience.

What to do

Outside of the usual walks around town, you can snuggle up with a cup of tea in a spacious, cozy cafe, the only one in town that has live music in the evenings and artists working wonders during the day. We found this place on Catholic Christmas Day and planned to go back there for music and fun for the evening. We went back, but the musicians didn’t show up, but what do we care about musicians, we had a concert anyway: playing guitar and singing songs by all those who came for the music. That’s how the fun came out, we all improvised. Chefchaouen is inspiring, after all.

The cafe is very conspicuous: there’s an easel at the entrance, friendly artists and cats. Come on in and you’ll be delighted.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

Here and here is already well written about what and for what should be brought from the fabulous Morocco. And specifically from chefchaouen need to bring all sorts of krafters, handmade things and paints, paints, and something traditional, such as clothes of the townspeople of Chefchaouen.

Pictures. chefchaouen is a city of artists, and they’re really good at drawing. One of the many pictures you should definitely take with you.

Paints. You can use them to paint your house in all the colors of the rainbow or to create your own little Chefchaouen somewhere in the country.

A traditional Sheffshawan hat. They are very rainbow-colored and so similar to Peruvian hats. At the river they offer to take pictures in these outfits, and everywhere in the Medina they sell them, but, alas, I don’t know how much they cost.

How to move around the city

It is possible and necessary to move around the city on foot. The city is as small as the palm of your hand, and to us, as residents of the vast expanse of Russia, some insignificant kilometers, overcome by many in the name of cab, does not seem longer than the road from home to the nearest grocery store. The only thing: due to the fact that Shefshauen is located on the mountainous terrain, the streets now and then weave up and then down, but in this is the joy and the benefit. And all that is really worth going to chefchaouen is the Medina and the stunning views from the observation decks. And to the first and second, except for your own way, and there is no way to get. So equip yourself with comfortable shoes, optimism, conquer and conquer the eternal good chefchaouen.

Cab. What are the peculiarities

Cabs in chefchaouen, as throughout Morocco, are very even common. However, the only reason you will want to use it is to get from the bus station to the Medina or vice versa in a hurry. In that case, a one-way cab ride might cost about 3 EUR and take a couple of minutes. Cabs don’t have meters, they don’t take credit cards and you won’t even have to hitch a ride, there will probably be a line of cabs waiting for you, willing to give you a ride.

Renting Transportation

chefchaouen y is a tiny town, developed at the expense of nearby major cities, so transport rentals in the emerald city is either completely absent or too expensive.

It is better to come to chefchaouen with a pre-rented car in Rabat, Casablanca or Fès. Read here and here and here in the appropriate sections on how to rent a car in other Moroccan cities. See examples of rental prices at the link.

chefchaouen – holidays with children

chefchaouen is full of joy and laughter just because there are so many children in the city. Wandering the streets of the Medina or relaxing by the river, you come across little Moroccans everywhere, frolicking under the clear sky or in the river itself. However, during our entire stay in chefchaouen blue city, we never once encountered any of the little kids who came to visit us, and that’s a shame. In my opinion, kids would love a sunny town like Shefshaven. Although the city is not rich in all sorts of civilized entertainment such as a water park, amusement park and others, but how many other, more true and real joys the city can give its little guests: mountains, mountain goats, river, sun, fruit, soccer field and even maybe new friends.

chefchaouen is a very comfortable city, no matter who you come with: with children, without, with friends, without, and even if you find yourself in this city all alone.

If you miss the sun, friends, and inspiration, then chefchaouen is the place where you have more than enough of these things. Go there and let chefchaouen keep you happy and warm.