Imperial Cities

Experience the Kingdom of Morocco's flavours on this tour that begins in Casablanca. We will visit Morocco's Imperial Cities, all of which were at some time capital of the Kingdom of Morocco, in which the King has made his permanent residence. We will stroll through Moroccan Kasbahs, view Moroccan minarets, experience tranquil moments in Moroccan riads and take part in the extraordinary sights, smells and sounds of city squares.

Your adventure in Morocco begins upon arrival in Casablanca, more popularly referred to as ‘Casa', the business centre and cultural capital of Morocco. This thriving coastal city is one of great contrasts and is home to the landmark Hassan II Mosque. The mosque has the world's tallest minaret and part of the mosque was built on a platform equipped with glass flooring and provides views looking down onto the Atlantic Ocean. This massive and ornate mosque is one of the few open to non-Muslims and is certainly worth touring. Casablanca is a terrific transport hub and is the arrival and departure city for this tour.

The first Imperial City we will visit is Rabat, the capital of Morocco. The capital has maintained its European flavor, yet is distinctly Moroccan with its narrow streets, alleyways, and colourfully painted buildings. We will explore the city and you will have the chance to visit many Rabat attractions including the Royal Palace, the unfinished Hassan Tower, the Kings' Mausoleum and the peaceful blue and white passageways of the Kasbah des Oudaïa. Strolling through the outer fortification walls of the Kasbah is a must and offers gorgeous views of the river and ocean.  For tranquility in Rabat, visit the Chellah Gardens, a site that was abandoned by the Romans in 1150 and is full of beautiful gardens. We recommend packing a lunch and enjoying the serene environment!

The next Imperial City we will visit is Meknes, or Villa Imperiale, Meknès, famed for its grandness. Step back into the opulent city of Sultan Moulay Ismail who ordered the construction of Meknes' medina walls and gates during his 55 year reign in the early 18^th century and pay close attention to the intricate details on buildings throughout the city. Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the most well-preserved palace in Meknes Dar el-Makhzen and walk through the Heri es-Souani granaries. Don't miss the Meknes medina or the centre Place El-Hedim. Walk south from the city square and you'll see the magnificent Bab el-Mansour Gate. Dar Jamaï Palace is also worth visiting and has been converted into one of Morocco's finest museums.

On our journey to Fes, we will briefly stop in Volubilis, an important Roman settlement in antiquity. We will view the Triumphal Arch and other incredible ruins at this Morocco UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We then continue to the Imperial City Fes, which served as the capital of the Kingdom of Morocco for 400 years and has maintained its rich Moroccan culture and tradition. Fez is home to the largest medieval city in the world. The oldest quarters of the city, Fez el-Bali, remain in good condition and most streets are only wide enough for donkeys and mules to use.  Venture over to the Kairouine Mosque and University and observe what has been and remains the most important centre for Islamic studies in Morocco. Feel like royalty and walk through Bab Bou Jeloud, the enormous gate that leads into the Fes medina. Try bargaining in a Fez souq where you can purchase dates, olives, aromatic spices, carpets and musical instruments. The Tanners' Quarters, Suuq Dabbaghin, remain Fes' most visited sight. From a viewing platform above, you can look down onto colourful vats and intense manual labour as locals stretch animal skins to make leather. We advise bringing sprigs of mint along as the smell of animal hides can be overwhelming.

Finally, we will visit the Red City of Morocco. Marrakech has spectacular views of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains and is one of the most enthralling cities in Morocco. Explore the Marrakesh Kasbah and Kasbah Mosque.  Make your way through charming alleyways in the Marrakech medina. Enter into the heart of the old city in the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square. Be prepared for anything in the square as it comes alive at night and turns into outdoor food stalls with snake charmers, storytellers, musicians and even acrobats there to entertain. Walk to the magnificent Koutoubia Mosque and its remarkable minaret that were constructed in the 12^th century. Visit the beautifully preserved Saadian Tombs and make your way to the magnificent Bahia Palace. If you are searching for tranquillity, visit the Marjorelle Gardens, and if European influence is what you're after, head to the French new town and stroll along wide boulevards.

After experiencing the Imperial Cities of Morocco we will return to Casablanca.