7-Day Imperial Cities Circuit
Tour Overview
Discover the grand sweep of Moroccan history and culture on this comprehensive seven-day circuit of the four Imperial Cities: Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech. Each city served as the capital of a different Moroccan dynasty, and each preserves extraordinary monuments, medinas, and artistic traditions that reflect its period of greatest glory. This tour provides the most complete immersion in Morocco's imperial heritage available.
Beginning in Casablanca, you will visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque before traveling to Rabat, Morocco's current capital, to explore the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Hassan Tower. From Rabat, the route leads to Meknes, the "Versailles of Morocco," where Sultan Moulay Ismail built a vast palace complex, and to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis with their extraordinary mosaic floors.
The heart of the tour is two full days in Fes, Morocco's spiritual and intellectual capital. With a local guide, you will navigate the world's largest car-free urban area, visiting the al-Qarawiyyin University, the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Chouara Tannery, and the hidden workshops of master artisans. A detour to the blue-washed mountain town of Chefchaouen provides a stunning contrast to the intensity of Fes.
The final leg crosses the Middle Atlas Mountains, where cedar forests shelter Barbary macaques, before descending to Marrakech. Here, you will explore the Jardin Majorelle, the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the incomparable spectacle of Jemaa el-Fnaa. Throughout the journey, you will stay in carefully selected riads and boutique hotels that reflect the architectural character of each city.
Tour Highlights
- All four Imperial Cities: Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech
- Volubilis Roman ruins with incredible mosaic floors
- Two full days exploring the Fes Medina with a local guide
- Blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen
- Handpicked riad accommodation in each city
What's Included
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle and driver for 7 days
- Licensed English-speaking guides in each city
- 6 nights in traditional riads and boutique hotels
- Daily breakfasts and 4 dinners
- All entrance fees to monuments and museums
Not Included
- International flights and airport transfers
- Lunches and drinks not specified
- Personal shopping and souvenirs
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Casablanca to Rabat
Arrive in Casablanca and visit the Hassan II Mosque. Transfer to Rabat to explore the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Hassan Tower. Overnight in a riad near the medina.
Day 2: Rabat to Meknes & Volubilis
Drive to Meknes and visit the grand Bab Mansour gate, the Royal Stables, and the Jewish Mellah. Afternoon excursion to the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Overnight in Meknes.
Day 3: Meknes to Chefchaouen
Journey north through the Rif Mountains to the blue pearl of Morocco. Spend the afternoon exploring the blue-washed medina and the Place Outa el-Hammam. Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Day 4: Chefchaouen to Fes
Morning hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views. Drive to Fes through rolling countryside. Evening introduction walk through the medina with your guide. Overnight in a Fes riad.
Day 5: Full Day in Fes
Complete immersion in the Fes Medina: al-Qarawiyyin University, Bou Inania Madrasa, Chouara Tannery, Nejjarine Museum, and artisan workshops. Cooking class dinner in a local home.
Day 6: Fes to Marrakech
Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains through Ifrane and Azrou cedar forests with Barbary macaques. Continue through Beni Mellal to Marrakech. Evening free to explore Jemaa el-Fnaa. Overnight in Marrakech riad.
Day 7: Full Day in Marrakech
Visit Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and Koutoubia Mosque. Afternoon in the souks. Farewell dinner on a rooftop terrace with Atlas Mountain views.
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