Imperial Cities Grand Tour
Imperial Cities Grand Tour
Tour Overview
The Imperial Cities Grand Tour is a comprehensive journey, typically 7-8 days, focusing on the country’s most significant historical and cultural centers. It emphasizes guided exploration of the medieval Medinas (Fes and Marrakech), providing deep insight into Moroccan heritage, architecture, and craftsmanship.
Focus: History, culture, architecture, and the contrasting urban energies of four distinct cities.
Experience: Guided, immersive walking tours through ancient quarters, private transfers between cities, and overnight stays in authentic, often high-end, traditional Riad or Kasbah-style hotels.
Best For: History buffs, culture seekers, and first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, structured introduction to Morocco’s heritage.
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights (Most Comprehensive Option)
Grade: Easy/Cultural. Moderate walking required in Medinas. Vehicle transport between cities is private and comfortable.
Highlight: Guided tours of Fes’s medieval Medina and Marrakech’s vibrant Djemaa el-Fna.
Cities Covered: Rabat (Current Capital), Fes (Spiritual), Meknes (Former Imperial), Marrakech (Southern Pearl).
Accommodation: Mixture of 4/5-star hotels and high-quality, centrally located traditional Riads.
Day 1 Casablanca Arrival & Rabat
Arrival & RabatArrive in Casablanca. Visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque (the world’s tallest minaret). Transfer to Rabat, the current capital. Visit the Royal Palace (exterior), the Hassan Tower, and the Mohammed V Mausoleum.
Day 2 Rabat → Volubilis → Meknes → Fes
Explore Rabat’s Kasbah des Oudayas. Drive inland, stopping at the incredible ancient Roman Ruins of Volubilis (UNESCO site). Continue to Meknes to view the majestic Bab Mansour gate and the royal stables. Arrive in Fes for the evening.
Day 3 Fes: The Spiritual Capital
Full-day Guided Tour of Fes el-Bali (Old Medina), the world’s largest car-free urban zone. Visit the Al-Qarawiyyin University (the world’s oldest), the famous Chouara Tanneries, the Royal Palace gates, and the Attarine Medersa.
Day 4 Fes → Atlas Mountains → Marrakech
A scenic, full-day transfer crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains, often passing through cedar forests and ski resort towns like Ifrane. This is the longest travel day, offering a dramatic change of scenery. Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon.
Day 5 Marrakech: The Red City
Full-day Guided Tour of Marrakech. Visit the tranquil Jardin Majorelle, the intricate Bahia Palace, and the ancient Saadian Tombs. Spend the afternoon getting lost in the dizzying Souks (markets).
Day 6 Marrakech: Leisure & Culture
Free day for independent exploration. Options include a cooking class, visiting the Koutoubia Mosque, or a relaxing traditional Hammam experience. Experience the chaos and theater of the Djemaa el-Fna main square at sunset.
Day 7 Optional Excursion or Departure
Option for a day trip (e.g., Essaouira or Ourika Valley). Alternatively, transfer to Casablanca for an early departure, or enjoy a final morning in Marrakech.
Day 8 Departure
Transfer to Casablanca (CMN) or Marrakech (RAK) airport for departure.
Accommodation: 7 Nights in hand-picked, high-quality Riads and Hotels (Double Occupancy).
Transportation: Private, modern, air-conditioned vehicle (4×4 or Minivan) for all inter-city transfers.
Guidance: Private, certified, English-speaking Driver/Guide for the entire tour. Plus, specialist Local City Guides for Fes and Marrakech Medinas.
Meals: Daily Breakfast (7x) and Dinner (at Riads on most nights, 4x-5x).
Entry Fees: All entrance fees to historical monuments, palaces, and sites mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., Volubilis, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs).
Meet & Greet: Airport arrival and departure transfers.
Preparing for the Capitals: Essential FAQs for Your Grand Tour
How should I dress for the cities?
We recommend modest attire. Women should cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites (like Fes). While Western dress is accepted in hotels, respecting local customs prevents unwanted attention and enhances cultural immersion.
Can non-Muslims enter mosques?
Generally, no. The major exception is the magnificent Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, which welcomes visitors (guided tours are available). You will still be able to admire the architecture of all mosques from the exterior.
How difficult is it to navigate the Fes Medina?
The Fes Medina is famously complex. This is why we provide a specialist local city guide in Fes (and Marrakech) to navigate its $9,000$ streets, ensuring you see the hidden gems without getting lost.
Is haggling required in the souks?
Haggling is part of the fun and tradition! For larger items, you are expected to negotiate. Be polite, firm on your price, and if you don’t agree, simply smile and walk away.
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