A Morocco imperial cities tour takes you through the four cities that once served as royal capitals: Rabat, Meknes, Fes and Marrakech. Each has its own medina, monuments and character, and together they tell the story of Moroccan dynasties over a thousand years. Most travelers also add the Sahara, because the desert sits between Fes and Marrakech. This guide explains the cities and compares our routes so you can choose the right length.
Quick answer: for a first trip, the 7-day desert and imperial cities tour from Casablanca to Marrakech covers the four cities and a night in the dunes. With less time, choose the 5-day desert and imperial highlights tour. With more time, the 12-day tour with all the imperial cities adds Chefchaouen, the Atlas and a slower pace.
Imperial Cities Tours Compared
| Book | Short route (5 to 7 days) | Grand circuit (9 to 12 days) |
|---|---|---|
| Cities | Rabat, Meknes, Fes, Marrakech | The four cities plus Chefchaouen and more |
| Sahara | One night in Merzouga | One or two nights |
| Pace | Active | Relaxed |
| Start | Casablanca airport | Casablanca, Fes, Tangier or Marrakech |
| Example | 7-day tour from Casablanca | 9-day loop from Casablanca |
| Best for | First visit with limited time | A complete picture of Morocco |
Every route is private, with your own vehicle and driver. Local licensed guides join you in the medinas.
The Four Imperial Cities
Rabat
The modern capital combines the UNESCO-listed historic city, the Kasbah of the Udayas, the unfinished Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum.
Meknes
The city of Sultan Moulay Ismail, with the monumental Bab Mansour gate and huge royal granaries. Nearby, the Roman ruins of Volubilis are a highlight of every route.
Fes
The spiritual heart of Morocco and its oldest imperial city. The medina of Fes is a car-free maze of souks, tanneries and madrasas. Plan a full day with a guide: read our Fes medina guided tour guide.
Marrakech
The Red City, with the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the Koutoubia minaret, palaces and gardens. Its medina is lively day and night.
Our Imperial Cities Routes by Starting City
From Casablanca
The most popular start, right at the international airport. Choose the 5-day, 6-day, 7-day or 9-day route, or the 12-day tour with all the imperial cities. Browse all tours from Casablanca.
From Fes
The 10-day grand imperial and desert tour from Fes links the north, the cities and the Sahara.
From Tangier
Arriving from Spain? The 10-day grand desert and imperial cities tour from Tangier starts at the ferry port.
From Marrakech
The 10-day grand Morocco tour from Marrakech to Tangier crosses the desert and the imperial north.
How Many Days Do You Need?
- 5 days: the highlights with one desert night, at a quick pace.
- 7 days: the classic choice for a first trip. See also 7 days in Morocco.
- 9 to 12 days: time for Chefchaouen, the Atlas and slower medina days. Read 10 day Morocco tours.
Imperial Cities With or Without the Sahara?
You can visit only the cities, but most travelers add the desert, because Merzouga sits between Fes and Marrakech. As a result, a night in the dunes adds only about one day to the route. If you prefer culture only, ask us for a tailor-made route.
Guides in the Medinas
Your private driver handles the roads. In Fes, Meknes, Rabat and Marrakech, a licensed local guide shows you the medina, because only official guides may lead city tours.
Best Time for an Imperial Cities Tour
Spring and autumn are ideal for walking in the medinas. Summer is hot in Fes and Marrakech, while winter is mild in the cities but cold at night in the desert. Read the best time to visit Morocco or the official Fes guide.
Tips for Your Tour
- Fly in and out of different cities to avoid backtracking, for example into Casablanca and out of Marrakech.
- Keep a full day in Fes: it is the richest medina in the country.
- Dress modestly near religious sites.
- Traveling with children? Mix city days with outdoor days. Read Morocco with kids.
Arriving at Casablanca Airport?
Your driver can meet you at arrival and start the route immediately. Read our guide to Morocco tours from Casablanca airport or Casablanca to Marrakech.
Morocco Imperial Cities Tour FAQ
What are the imperial cities of Morocco?
Rabat, Meknes, Fes and Marrakech, the four historic royal capitals.
How many days do I need for an imperial cities tour?
Seven days is ideal for a first trip, including one night in the Sahara. Five days is possible at a faster pace.
Can I combine the imperial cities with the Sahara?
Yes. Most of our imperial cities tours include a night in the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga.
Where does an imperial cities tour start?
Usually at Casablanca airport, but routes also start in Fes, Tangier or Marrakech.
Is the tour private?
Yes. You travel only with your group, in your own vehicle with a professional driver.
Book Your Morocco Imperial Cities Tour
In short, a Morocco imperial cities tour shows you the history, crafts and life of the country, and the Sahara is only one extra day away. Tell us your dates and where you land, and we will plan the route.
Plan this trip: ask for a free quote, write to us on WhatsApp, or see all our tours from Casablanca.
