Award Banner
Award Banner

Morocco at a glimpse: A family-friendly itinerary of the mesmerising country

Morocco at a glimpse: A family-friendly itinerary of the mesmerising country
PHOTO: Unsplash

This summer, a sweet escape awaits travellers of all ages in Morocco. Just across the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Sahara's sands meet the Atlantic's waves, this captivating country offers a unique blend of experiences.

Morocco has seen the rise and fall of many dynasties, including the Idrisside, Almoravid, Almohad, Merinid and Saadian dynasties. Unesco recognises the country as a multicultural hub with a rich and diverse heritage.

Sample our curated itinerary of Moroccan cities here, ideal for a sun-drenched getaway with your loved ones filled with rich culture, beautiful views, and just pure enjoyment.

Rabat

PHOTO: Unsplash

Rabat pulsates as Morocco's vibrant capital city, where epochs of history seamlessly merge with contemporary life.

Its avenues and plazas are graced with magnificent artworks, each narrating a tale of the city's profound legacy. Consider the Kasbah des Oudayas, an awe-inspiring architectural gem nestled in verdant gardens that heighten its allure.

Just beyond its confines lies the ancient Chellah necropolis, which dates back to the Merinid era and is built on the ruins of an ancient Roman city. This captivating domain invites explorers to a harmonious coexistence of ancient remnants, lush greenery, and elegant storks.

Almohad caliph Yacoub El Mansour embarked on an ambitious project to build the largest mosque in the western Mediterranean, known as the Hassan Mosque.

Unfortunately, the construction remained incomplete following his death, transforming the site into a symbolic landmark of the city. Later, the mausoleum of King Mohammed V was erected here, opposite the iconic Hassan Tower, the incomplete minaret of the Hassan Mosque.

Visitors can meditate at the tomb of King Mohammed V and those of his two sons. The historical significance and architectural beauty of this site make it a remarkable visit, showcasing elements true to Moroccan architecture with touches from the Marinid and Saadian dynasties.

Adventurous families with older kids may want to check out Oudayas Beach, nestled in the heart of the city, where they can indulge in surfing, kayaking, or jet-skiing. 

Explore another dimension of Rabat by delving into its rich gastronomic landscape. The city is famous for its street food, and many of its culinary gems can be found in its bustling streets rather than in posh hotels.

PHOTO: Unsplash

One dish that even the pickiest eaters will not refuse is the Maakouda — a scrumptious potato fritters with irresistible flavours that can be easily found on street carts. There's also the comforting Harira soup, a local staple featuring chickpeas as its shining star. Craving something different?

Give the equally delightful Bessara soup a try! These exquisite dishes are the heart and soul of Rabat's food scene, ready to be savoured at every turn, whether you stumble upon them at lively street food stalls or vibrant traditional markets scattered throughout the city.

For souvenir shopping, the bustling streets of Souk Sebbat and Souika offer an array of leather goods, slippers, bags, and textiles, while Rue des Consuls boasts exquisite silver jewellery and Rabat's renowned carpets. 

Keep in mind that haggling is a fun sport played across all markets in Morocco. If you choose to engage, it will definitely fascinate the kids-they may even want to try it themselves.

Just a few kilometres away, on the other side of the Bou Regreg River, lies the city of Sale, a gem that can be explored alongside Rabat. Here, skilled potters shape clay into charming souvenirs and practical household items, from traditional tagines to ornate lamps, preserving Morocco's rich artisanal heritage for generations to come.

Casablanca

Though popularised by Michael Curtiz's cult classic film, Casablanca boasts an allure that transcends cinematic fame, leaving an indelible imprint on visitors long after their departure. The city seamlessly blends Moorish opulence with European sophistication throughout its winding streets.

Among its myriad treasures stands the ocean-side Hassan II Mosque; its towering minaret is the tallest in the world, casting a majestic silhouette against the evening sky.

PHOTO: Unsplash

Witnessing the minaret's beam guiding towards Mecca at dusk is a truly enchanting spectacle. Begin your exploration from this mosque and wander along the tranquil corners of Ain Diab Corniche, where the sea breeze offers a refreshing respite.

To immerse yourself in Moroccan culture, venture to Mohammed V Square, adorned with a magnificent fountain that sparkles under the night sky, showcasing the nation's architectural prowess. Another notable landmark is the Royal Palace of Casablanca, a grand testament to Moroccan royalty.

Find your way to Casablanca Central Market, where its array of novelties — from aromatic spices to vivid textiles — will charm any curious kids. For a more mellow alternative, experience a slice of bygone charm while strolling through Quartier Habous or New Medina, where French and Moroccan architectural styles converge.

Should hunger strike, Casablanca offers an array of seafood delicacies, from freshly grilled line fish to succulent prawns and lobster, showcasing its coastal abundance. Be sure not to miss the chance to savour chermoula, a fragrant herb and spice marinade that elevates Moroccan cuisine to unparalleled heights.

Another culinary gem hailing from Casablanca is R'fissa, or "Trid," a harmonious blend of chicken, lentils, fenugreek, and msemen (Moroccan flatbread) simmered in onion broth.

Chefchaouen

Yes! This is the same city adorned with mesmerising blue buildings, featured on computer wallpapers around the world. Watch as the young ones murmur in wonder as they stand under the deep azure shadows-it's truly a one-of-a-kind view. 

But why the blue hue? Numerous theories abound. Some believe it mirrors the colours of the sky and clouds, creating a city that feels closer to the divine.

PHOTO: Unsplash

Others suggest it serves as a natural insect repellent, keeping pesky mosquitoes at bay. However, beyond its exterior, Chefchaouen harbours countless treasures waiting to be unearthed.

Chase the kids (safely!) into the labyrinthine alleys, where hidden gems await in quaint bazaars offering an array of shopping delights. Seek out the Berber Caravan Market, renowned for its treasure trove of souvenirs, from traditional attire to fragrant spices and artisanal crafts.

Experience the vibrant heartbeat of Chefchaouen at Square Outa El Hammam, home to the iconic Kasbah, or seek solace in the serene ambiance of Square El Haouta. These squares serve as bustling hubs, brimming with charming eateries and cosy cafes, perfect for indulging in a cup of famous Moroccan mint tea and immersing yourself in the city's dynamic atmosphere.

Yet, the adventure is far from over. Marvel at the breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas from the Spanish Mosque, or wander through the tranquil oasis of the Kasbah Museum & Gardens, winding down from a day filled with novel vistas. 

For a truly unique experience, venture to the legendary God's Bridge, where crystal-clear turquoise waters meander below, where kids can enjoy a refreshing swim while everyone else can savour moments of relaxation amidst the picturesque valley.

The Blue Pearl is not just visually stunning; it's also a culinary gem, featuring an extensive selection of Moroccan traditional dishes like Couscous and Tajins. Here, you'll experience a flawless fusion of Mediterranean, Moroccan, and Spanish flavours, each contributing uniquely to Chefchaouen's vibrant culinary landscape.

Tetouan

Perched along the Mediterranean coastline, this city embodies the fusion of Spanish influence and Moroccan heritage, offering a captivating blend of design, history, and culture. 

Exploring this city is a journey through time and culture, with each corner unveiling a new facet of its rich heritage. Teens and kids interested in history and culture will enjoy curated exhibits showcasing Roman relics and mosaics from Lixus at the Tetouan Archaeology Museum.

Afterward, marvel at the grandeur of the old Royal Palace, a testament to 17th-century craftsmanship, its exterior alone a sight to behold.

Meanwhile, both parents and kids of all ages can find something fun to do at Martil Beach, where the sun-kissed shores beckon for leisurely strolls and thrilling water sports adventures.

Beyond the coastline, a treasure trove of iconic landmarks awaits discovery, from the imposing Spanish Cathedral to the serene ambiance of the Big Mosque and the lively bustle of the Medina. 

Kids sure would love Ghriba, a cookie crafted from semolina and almonds, with its roots tracing back to Spain. 

Marrakech

No exploration of Morocco is truly complete without soaking yourself in the wonders of Marrakech. Situated at the base of the Atlas Mountains, this dynamic city presents a captivating fusion of landscapes, where the nearby Sahara Desert offers starkly contrasting climates and terrains.

Like many Moroccan locales, Marrakech is divided into the Medina and Ville Nouvelle, with the former earning distinction as a Unesco World Heritage site, boasting ancient souks and historical marvels that narrate the region's storied past.

For an authentic Marrakech experience, arrange for a family stay in a traditional Riad. Their sumptuous style, charming gardens, and open courtyards provide a resplendent oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The many gorgeous nooks and crannies within a Riad may spell wondrous discoveries during impromptu hide-and-seek games among the young ones! 

In Marrakech, food aficionados are treated to a haven of culinary delights, featuring an exquisite selection of Moroccan delicacies steeped in local tradition. Among these treasures is the irresistible Tanjia, a signature Marrakech dish meticulously prepared by simmering lamb or veal along with a blend of spices for hours within terracotta pots.

PHOTO: Unsplash

At the heart of the old town lies Djemaa el-Fna, a bustling commercial hub renowned for its authentic Moroccan eateries and vibrant atmosphere.

This lively marketplace offers an unparalleled immersion into Moroccan culture, where children and adults alike will be captivated by its sheer size, colourful wares, and errant magic and acrobat shows. You simply can't miss out on the famous fresh juices and desserts from the shops here. 

Other striking landmarks to visit include Jardin Majorelle, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and the Marrakech Museum, Bahia Palace and Menara Gardens.

If you're pressed for time and can only explore one destination in Morocco, Marrakech stands out as the quintessential choice. Here, you'll encounter a harmonious blend of cultural preservation and modernity, where ancient sites coexist with luxurious shopping districts and fine dining establishments. 

Whether drawn to ancient tales or contemporary delights, Marrakech promises an unforgettable odyssey through the very essence of Moroccan splendour. 

Visiting any part of Morocco, even those not mentioned above, offers a distinct experience, making each trip to the country uniquely memorable. The cities of Morocco are modern yet imbued with the feeling of having time-travelled to an ancient land.

Experience a culture that remains pure and undisturbed by generations, savour food with unique flavours rooted in the soil of the land, and walk on sands shaped by the evolution of humanity and the rich heritage of the country. Embrace the ultimate sense of timelessness. Experience Morocco!

ALSO READ: A halal holiday in Germany: A Muslim-friendly itinerary through the land of innovators and visionaries

This article was first published in Wego.

homepage

trending

trending
    'We are here to defy the odds': PAP's Aljunied team acknowledges tough fight, eyes return after 14 years
    'I am a fighter': Criminal lawyer Marshall Lim, PAP's candidate for Hougang SMC
    GE2025: Victor Lye and Jasmin Lau seen with SM Lee Hsien Loong at Ang Mo Kio GRC
    Multi-agency committee set up to ease inconveniences for residents moving into new BTO flats
    Van driver, 69, arrested for drink driving after crashing into 7 parked vehicles in Ang Mo Kio
    Mean and green: We take a closer look at the Traffic Police's first electric patrol car
    From transport to co-living space: Sneak peek at Singapore's first MRT train hotel
    GE2025: PSP set to contest Marymount, Kebun Baru and Pioneer SMCs
    'Happy to be part of the team': PAP new face Valerie Lee joins walkabout on Pulau Ubin with Pasir Ris-Punggol MPs
    Two men fight each other at Johor checkpoint over allegation of cutting queue, probe on
    SG60 Baby Gift distribution kicks off: PM Wong pledges to do everything possible to support families
    Man, 77, discovered dead in Punggol flat; last seen over a week ago

Singapore

Singapore
    • 'Rest in peace, girl': Bouquets seen at the scene of River Valley fire where 10-year-old died
    • Calvin Cheng's comments regarding Gaza 'unacceptable and hurtful' to Malay/Muslim community: Masagos
    • GE2025: Why this 32-year-old is setting up a political party to contest East Coast GRC
    • Malaysian man jailed for assaulting bus driver over 11-minute wait at Tampines
    • Billion-dollar nickel scam: Ng Yu Zhi spent $7m on luxury cars he gave to wife, girlfriends
    • GE2025: Maliki Osman to be replaced by former news presenter Hazlina Abdul Halim in East Coast GRC
    • Fire engine's wheels get stuck in mud in Tengah estate
    • River Valley fire: Family of 10-year-old girl who died in blaze gather for last goodbye
    • Nee Soon GRC MP Faishal Ibrahim to contest in Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC
    • GE2025: AMK GRC heading for 3-cornered fight after 2 opposition parties fail to strike deal

Entertainment

Entertainment
    • Unreleased song by late Teresa Teng found in Japan, to be included in album this year
    • 'Cannot think of a better community of storytellers to tell our story': Local content announced to celebrate 'Singaporean-ness' for SG60
    • Marquee celebrates 6th anniversary on April 11 and 12 with DJs Dimitri Vegas and Steve Aoki
    • Gossip mill: Tanya Chua and Jane Zhang busk at Clarke Quay, top 10 Korean actors among overseas fans revealed, Ryoko Hirosue arrested for alleged assault
    • Brazilian DJ Alok fears visa removal for international artists in US
    • Josh Duhamel opens up about his love of living off-grid with family
    • Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria actor Eric Dane diagnosed with ALS
    • Soulja Boy ordered to pay former assistant more than $5.3 million in damages
    • Lady Gaga thinks Bruno Mars is a 'once-in-a-generation artist'
    • Meghan Trainor feels 'no shame' over using weight-loss medication

Lifestyle

Lifestyle
    • Changi Airport reclaims World's Best Airport title in 2025, 13th time at top spot
    • Hello, Sunny! Simonboy announces birth of son, shares scary moment where 'we lost his heartbeat'
    • 140 coffeeshops in Singapore offering SG60 promotions and discounts, here's what to expect
    • The rise of Chinese F&B brands in Singapore: What stirs Singaporeans' appetites?
    • Time travel, Singapore style: 60 landmarks that have shaped the Lion City
    • How couples should structure property ownership In Singapore (before it gets messy)
    • Would you visit a 'floating' mosque? 4 unique mosques for your bucket list
    • Questions I wish I could ask my friends with kids
    • Play tourist, stay local: 60 spots to make you fall in love with Singapore all over again
    • Wedding planning 101: Navigating guest lists, latecomers and in-law expectations

Digicult

Digicult
    • A $500 wake-up call: How the Samsung Galaxy Ring made me realise my stress
    • Monster Hunter Wilds producer explains how game has remained unique and fresh over 20 years
    • Google Pixel 9a: The best AI-centric phone under $800 in 2025?
    • Western intelligence agencies warn spyware threat targeting Taiwan, Tibetan rights advocates
    • Taiwan says China using generative AI to ramp up disinformation and 'divide' the island
    • Russian court fines Telegram app for refusal to remove anti-government content, TASS reports
    • One Beijing man's quest to keep cooking — and connecting with Americans — on camera
    • Nintendo Switch 2 to launch in June with US$449.99 price tag
    • Games in April: RPGs, racing and Ronaldo in a fighting game
    • Is it time to get a MacBook at a good price? The M4 MacBook Air says yes

Money

Money
    • Giant deal: Malaysian company to acquire Cold Storage and Giant supermarket chains in Singapore
    • Best fixed deposit rates in Singapore (April 2025): Minimum deposits from $500, rates up to 2.90%
    • 4 reasons new condos are launched at higher prices than you might expect
    • Best bank offers in Singapore (April 2025): Win a Lilo & Stitch-inspired Hawaii vacation, get up to 50% off flights, and more
    • Here are the biggest 3-bedroom condo units for under $2.1m in Singapore
    • Impact of tariffs on developing countries could be 'catastrophic', says UN trade agency
    • EU brainstorms on how to avert or brace for US tariffs as 90-day window opens
    • China hits back at Trump tariff hike, raises duties on US goods to 125%
    • Trump's tariff pause brings little relief as recession risk lingers
    • Asean bloc seeks dialogue with US on tariffs but won't retaliate

Latest

Latest
  • Trump says Ukraine talks may be going OK, but there is a time 'to put up or shut up'
  • New Zealand needs US as 'active' partner in Indo-Pacific, says NZ foreign minister
  • US State Department says deported Maryland resident 'alive and secure' in El Salvador
  • Gazans struggle to find water as clean sources become increasingly scarce
  • WHO members close to accord on tackling future pandemics, sources say
  • Brazil's Bolsonaro may need new surgery after being hospitalised
  • Protesting Hungarians mock Orban's anti-LGBT moves, saying 'Let's all be the same'
  • Trump spares smartphones, computers, other electronics from China tariffs
  • Skoda Kodiaq review: A large 7-seater SUV with a relatively small price tag

In Case You Missed It

In Case You Missed It
  • Ex-MP Lee Bee Wah introduces former MDDI director Goh Hanyan as potential candidate to Nee Soon residents
  • Robert Ng, son of late billionaire Ng Teng Fong, and 3 children to be designated as 'politically significant persons'
  • 'She should be with her family': Employer gives maid plane ticket, $800 to return to Myanmar and search for missing mum
  • 'He needed something to help him fight,' says man who bought Hokkien mee for dying patient
  • Thai woman struggles to evacuate during earthquake while her dog sleeps unfazed
  • Workers painting exterior of Geylang block discover man's skeletal remains in flat
  • 'New, younger' PAP team vows to reclaim WP-controlled Sengkang GRC, says Lam Pin Min
  • New face Jackson Lam 'very good on the ground' and will be asset to Parliament, says Shanmugam
  • Woman who publicised tips on how she evaded GST for luxury purchases fined $18k
This website is best viewed using the latest versions of web browsers.