Essence of Imperial Morocco

Arrival at Marrakech will be a warm welcome and a transfer to your riad or hotel where your comfortable journey begins. Depending on your arrival time may allow you to start exploring the vibrant energy of the Red City, one of Morocco's beautiful imperial capitals. You can stroll around the busy Jemaa el-Fna square where story tellers, musicians, snake charmers, and many food stalls create an occasionally overwhelming experience. You will enjoy your first taste of traditional Moroccan food at a typical Moroccan eatery or from a panoramic rooftop overlooking the medina. This first day give you an opportunity to unwind after your journey while gradually discovering the history, culture, and daily life of Marrakech at an easy pace. You will spend the night in Marrakech.

Experience a complete guided day in Marrakech, with a private local guide. Tour some of the major historical and cultural attractions of Marrakech, including the famous Bahia Palace with its beautiful tile decorations and serene courtyard, and the enigmatic Saadian Tombs, which were concealed for centuries and are steeped in royal history. You will also see the famous Koutoubia Mosque, whose minaret is a landmark of the city. Your next stop will be to visit the vibrant marketplaces, commonly referred to as souks, filled with aromatic spices, fine leather goods, lanterns and Traditional Arts and Crafts. The Ben Youssef Madrasa and Marrakech Museum will demonstrate the scholarly and artistic achievements of this region. In the afternoon, you could stroll through Majorelle Gardens and visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, and gain knowledge of contemporary culture. You will be taken back to your hotel or have a chance to take an optional trip to a local hammam (bath-house). You will spend the night in Marrakech.

Depart from Marrakech after breakfast and head west toward Casablanca, the largest city and economic heart of Morocco. Visit the majestic Hassan II Mosque upon arrival, situated dramatically on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, and featuring exquisite artisan craftsmanship. Take a stroll along the Ain Diab Corniche and enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean with modern city life as your backdrop. Continue onward to Rabat, which is Morocco's political and administrative capital, as well as one of the four imperial cities. Explore the Hassan Tower, a 12th-century minaret that is still unfinished and represents the might of the Almohads, and then visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, both examples of magnificent white marble architecture and traditional Moroccan ornamental architecture. Visit the peaceful Kasbah of the Oudayas overlooking the beautiful Bou Regreg River, with its Spanish-style buildings, scenic view of the Atlantic Ocean and panoramic views of Rabat. The night is spent in Rabat.

After leaving Rabat, the next destination on your trip is located at Meknes, which is one of the Imperial Cities that were built during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. You will have the opportunity to explore Bab Mansour, which is one of Morocco's most impressive entry gates, El Hedim Square and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, which shows you that Meknes was once the royal capital of this wonderful country. From Meknes, you will drive to the site of Volubilis, which is an old Roman city that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of North Africa's best-preserved archaeological sites. Explore the city on foot to view its mosaics, temples, basilicas and triumphal arches while you learn about everyday life in Morocco under the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago. After exploring this amazing architecture, you will continue your journey through fertile farmland and olive groves to your final destination of Fes. Evening arrival and check-in at your riad, where you will be staying overnight in Fes.

Explore the Medina in Fes, Morocco (also called Fes el-Bali), the old part of Fes — which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO — on this day trip to this historic site.

The Medina is a labyrinth full of narrow streets and alleyways that have artisans, shops, and, of course, historical monuments. The Medina is where you will learn about the Al Quaraouiyine University (the world's oldest university still operating today), the Bou Inania Madrasa (known for its intricate cedar wood carvings and colorful Zellige tile work), and the traditional Tanneries that have been used for dying leather for centuries using traditional techniques. You also have the opportunity to visit the Nejjarine Fountain, one of many beautiful examples of Moroccan craftsmanship.

After visiting these locations, you will be taken on a walking tour through the Andalusian quarter, ending with a panoramic view from the Borj Nord overlooking the Medina.

Overnight: Fes.

Depending on your preferences, there are several options for activities that you can participate in today! If you would like to learn about the significance of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun (Morocco's most holy site) while enjoying breathtaking vistas of adjacent mountains, one choice is to go to Moulay Idriss Zerhoun and witness all that is offered. Another entertaining alternative is to travel through the Middle Atlas region, which leads down toward Ifrane (also known as "The Switzerland of Morocco" due to its beautiful architecture and immaculate roadways), and then westward to the city of Azrou (where traditional Barbary macaques are found in large numbers). While you are traveling in the countryside, you will also take in some incredible scenery, as it will contrast sharply with the busy atmosphere of Fes. You'll end the day back in Fes, where you'll spend the final night enjoying a relaxed evening meal together prior to leaving Fes for good.

After Breakfast, based upon your return Flight schedule you will be Taken to your next destination/Fes Saiss Airport depending on your needs.

Your 7 Day Imperial cities trip throughout Morocco, and all that were experienced (history, architecture, cultural encounters, memories) from Marrakeck to Fes have come to an end.