Planning a trip to Morocco and wondering how to spend your time? This 7-day Morocco itinerary is the perfect introduction to the country’s most iconic destinations: Marrakech, the Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains, and Fes. It’s designed for first-time visitors who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed.
Overview: 7 Days in Morocco
- Day 1-2: Marrakech
- Day 3: Atlas Mountains day trip
- Day 4-5: Sahara Desert (Merzouga)
- Day 6: Fes
- Day 7: Fes medina + departure
Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech
Fly into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). Check into your riad in the medina and allow yourself a few hours to rest and adjust. In the evening, head to Djemaa el-Fna square for dinner and people-watching. This square is most magical after dark when food stalls appear and live entertainment fills the air.
Where to stay: A riad in the medina. We recommend booking through Booking.com for the best selection.
Day 2: Marrakech Medina & Palaces
Spend your full second day exploring the wonders of Marrakech:
- Morning: Visit the Majorelle Garden (arrive early to beat the crowds)
- Late morning: Explore the souks — buy spices, argan oil, leather goods
- Afternoon: Tour the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs
- Evening: Rooftop dinner with views over the medina
Day 3: Atlas Mountains Day Trip
Take a day trip from Marrakech to the High Atlas Mountains. The Ourika Valley is the most popular destination, with its Berber villages and the Setti Fatma waterfalls. In winter, the mountain scenery is spectacular.
Book a guided Atlas Mountains day trip to get the most out of the experience with a knowledgeable local guide.
Day 4-5: Sahara Desert (Merzouga)
This is the highlight of most Morocco itineraries. Take an organized 2-day tour from Marrakech to the Sahara desert. The drive passes through the dramatic Draa Valley, the Dades Gorge, and the Todra Gorge before reaching the golden dunes of Merzouga.
Must-do in the Sahara:
- Sunset camel ride into the dunes
- Sleep in a luxury desert camp under the stars
- Wake up before sunrise for the most stunning light on the dunes
On Day 5, continue north to Fes (approximately 4-5 hours by road).
Day 6: Arrive in Fes — The Ancient Medina
Fes is arguably Morocco’s most fascinating city. Its ancient medina (Fes el-Bali) is the world’s largest car-free urban area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check into your riad and spend the afternoon getting wonderfully lost in the labyrinthine alleys.
Don’t miss in Fes: The Chouara Tannery (best viewed from a rooftop leather shop), Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, and the blue-tiled Bou Inania Madrasa.
Day 7: Fes Medina Deep Dive + Departure
Spend your final morning on a guided medina walk. A local guide is strongly recommended in Fes — the medina has over 9,000 alleys and it is very easy to get lost. In the afternoon, transfer to Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ) for your departure, or head back to Marrakech (5 hours by train).
Morocco 7-Day Itinerary: Practical Tips
- Transport: For the Sahara portion, book a private tour or shared group tour. For the Marrakech-Fes connection, ONCF trains are comfortable and affordable.
- Budget: Expect to spend roughly $80-150 USD per day including accommodation, food, transport, and activities
- Best time: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
- Booking: Book riads and Sahara tours at least 2-3 months in advance for peak season
Extend Your Trip
Have more time? Add Chefchaouen (the famous Blue City), Essaouira (the coastal windsurfer city), or Casablanca to your itinerary. See our complete first-time Morocco guide.