Which imperial city of Morocco is made for you?

Morocco has four imperial cities: Fez, Meknes, Marrakech and Rabat. Each has served as the capital of the former Cherifian Empire throughout history. Now they take you on walks to marvel at everyday life and the architectural highlights they have to offer. Between the maze of streets of these cities, discover medinas, mausoleums, gardens and museums, which reveal more about the historical, artisanal and cultural treasures of Morocco.

Do you hesitate between these four cities? Visit Maghreb reveals the unique character of the Moroccan imperial cities, flagships of the cultural heritage of Morocco.

Fez, the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco

Fez is the ideal option if you want to enjoy a summary of the culture, history and crafts of Morocco. Cradle of the former Cherifian Empire, this imperial city boasts of having the most remarkable medina (old city) in Morocco.

With our local guides, you will be exploring this labyrinth of 9,000 lanes. Homes, palaces, mosques and monuments rub shoulders in perfect architectural harmony. Founded in the 9th century, the medina of Fez is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is one of the largest and best preserved in the Arab world

Fez el-Bali, as it is nicknamed to differentiate it from the new city, is surrounded by ramparts. You enter it through one of the imposing medieval gates, Bab Boujloud being the main one, before starting your spellbinding journey into the past. No cars here. Only donkeys that stroll the aisles nonchalantly.

Be sure to visit Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest university in the world, as well as the Nejjarîn Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts. The famous tannery of Chouara promises a picturesque spectacle. Dozens of men tirelessly plunge pieces of leather into stone basins filled with natural dyes. You will then find them in the form of slippers or clothes on the stalls of the souks. For a breathtaking panorama of the medina of Fez, head for the hill which shelters the tombs of the Merinid dynasty, outside the city.

Meknes, the hidden treasures of the capital of Moulay Ismaïl

Do you prefer historic cities that are quieter and less visited than Fez? The neighbor Meknes offers you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the daily life of Moroccans in an authentic way. This city is also worth a visit to admire Bab el-Mansour, considered the most beautiful gateway in North Africa. Majestic, it was the entrance of the imperial palace, opposite the famous Lahdim square.

Founded in the 9th century by the Almoravid dynasty, Meknes takes its name from the Berber tribe of Meknassa which then dominated eastern Morocco. Between 1672 and 1727, it became the prestigious capital of the Cherifian Empire during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismaïl, whose ambition was to create Moroccan Versailles. Numerous monuments dot the historic city of Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among them are the mausoleum of Moulay Ismaïl, the Dar Jamaï museum and the medersa (Koranic school) Bou Inania. The royal stud farm of Meknes, the oldest in Morocco, lends itself to a bucolic getaway.

Marrakech, the exotic effervescence of the Pearl of the South

Praised by travelers from all over the world, Marrakech will please you if you are looking for vibrant atmospheres, at the crossroads between tradition and modernity. The ocher color that covers all of its buildings in a homogeneous manner has earned it the nickname "red city". Dating from the end of the 11th century, the capital of the Almoravid dynasty radiated throughout the Muslim West.

The beating heart of Marrakech is found on the legendary Jemaâ el-Fna square. Storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, monkey trainers and acrobats contribute to the magical setting of the place. Savoring a tagine on the panoramic terrace of a surrounding restaurant, such as El Waha or Taj'in Darna, is a must. From there, you can see the Koutoubia minaret, the city's emblematic mosque. Marrakech is also home to the splendid Majorelle Garden and the romantic Menara Gardens.

Renowned for its nightlife, let yourself be tempted by a cocktail, a candlelit dinner on a terrace or a dancing trip to one of the city's many nightclubs. The city is also the ideal starting point for trips to the Sahara Desert or the Ourika Valley.

Rabat, the discreet charm of the capital of Morocco

Rabat is the only imperial city built next to the Atlantic Ocean. It is the city to privilege to combine historical discoveries and strolls along the water. Long neglected by travelers, it now seduces with its pleasant and modern atmosphere, as well as its plethora of monuments. Symbol of Rabat, the Hassan tower is an unfinished 12th century minaret which dominates the remains of a mosque. A few steps away, you can visit the Mohammed V mausoleum, where the last monarchs of the Kingdom rest. At the Museum of History and Civilizations, you will dive into the rich past of this Maghreb country.

Strolling through the alleys of the Oudayas kasbah offers a timeless interlude. This former military fort built at the mouth of the Bouregreg River contains riads and gardens. We recommend you sip a mint tea with gazelle horns on the terrace of Café Maure. At sunset, the spectacle is magical.

Visit Maghreb , your specialized travel agency in Maghreb will be able to design tailor-made trips to live memorable experiences in Morocco. Discover the imperial city of your choice with expert advice and confidential addresses.