| |

Best 10 Day Morocco Itinerary: Backpacking Morocco Without A Car + Map

Do you want to know what the best 10 day Morocco itinerary looks like? Great, this is the post for you! Iโ€™ve filled this Morocco backpacking itinerary with all the best spots and activities to fulfil your Moroccan dream.

I have to be honest; Morocco was never on my list of must-visit countries. But since I had to drive through it to get home during my epic 2-month road trip in West Africa, it made sense to explore.

And I canโ€™t believe I never wanted to visit Morocco! Itโ€™s an absolutely stunning country with colourful cities, culture and people. The contrast from the coast to the desert is wonderful, and thereโ€™s so much history to learn that it firmly sits as one of my new favourite destinations.ย 

I thought it was a really magical place, and Iโ€™m actually hoping to return pretty soon!ย 

This Morocco trip itinerary encompasses the best of Morocco, balancing ancient cities, mountains, deserts and coastal treasures. Iโ€™ve included city highlights, transport options, and accommodation ideas to make this the ultimate Morocco 10 day itinerary.ย ย ย 

10 day Morocco itinerary featuring the souks of Marrakech.
Amazon Simple Disclosure Updated

10 Day Morocco Travel Itinerary Overview

For this ten-day Morocco itinerary, Iโ€™ve included stops in six towns, two of which are imperial cities: Marrakech and Fes. I will admit that itโ€™s faster-paced than usual, but itโ€™s fun and full of adventure! If you prefer a slower-paced itinerary, Iโ€™ve made suggestions for a 12-14-day itinerary further below.ย 

Alternatively, if you donโ€™t want to include two big cities, I suggest skipping Fes, which would save you two days for elsewhere. Or you could remove Tangier and head straight to Fes and take a day trip to Chefchaouen from there instead.

However, the nice balance between the popular towns and offbeat locations really makes this the best 10 day Morocco itinerary for backpacking.

Morocco has some lovely, affordable accommodations, and even though this is a backpacking itinerary, thereโ€™s no reason you canโ€™t stay somewhere magical. I recommend searching for a Riad, which is similar in atmosphere to a guest house.ย 

Definition Riad: Riads are large traditional Moroccan houses or palaces built around a central courtyard or garden.ย 

10 day Morocco travel itinerary summaryย 

Casablanca (to arrive) โ†’ Tangier (1 day) โ†’ Chefchaouen (1 day) โ†’ Fes (2 days) โ†’ Merzouga (2 days) โ†’ Marrakech (2 days) โ†’ Essaouira (1 day) โ†’ Marrakech/Casablanca (to depart).

Colourful street in Morocco with brightly painted shutters.

Backpacking Morocco without a car

To enjoy this 10 day Morocco itinerary without a car, youโ€™ll need to utilise public transport. Morocco has a good train line serving the coast and major cities. For the rest of the locations, youโ€™ll need to book a coach/bus. Iโ€™ve provided more details below, but I use Bookaway to book transport overseas.

Backpacking in Morocco can be fun, and for this itinerary, there are only two long travel days: overnight to Merzouga, then Merzouga to Marrakech (12-hour bus journey). If you prefer to visit the desert on a multi-day tour, these can be arranged from Marrakech or Fes.

Iโ€™ve ended this Morocco backpacking itinerary with a stopover in Essaouira, which I think is the perfect way to slow down before flying home. Iโ€™ve also included tips and recommendations from my experience to help make your trip even more enjoyable.

Top tip >> Bringing a drone into Morocco is strictly prohibited unless you have prior authorisation from the Moroccan government. Moroccan customs will confiscate drones upon arrival if they find one, as they did to me!

What to see in Morocco in 10 days

A fruit stand in Morocco.

Iโ€™ve included a mixture of must-visit attractions and lesser-visited spots to ensure this Morocco trip itinerary is well-balanced. However, there are a few sites that everyone should visit when in Morocco. These include:ย 

  • And the Hercules Caves & Cape Spartel in Tangier.
  • Chefchaouenโ€™s Blue Medina.ย 
  • Fes el-Bali & Tanneries.
  • A Camel Trek & Sahara Desert Camp.ย 
  • Marrakechโ€™s Medina, Jemaa el-Fnaa, Majorelle Garden & Bahia Palace.ย 
  • Aรฏt Benhaddou.ย 
  • Essaouiraโ€™s Coastal Medina & Por.

Is a 10 days in Morocco long enough?

Ten days in Morocco is long enough (just) to see the very best of the country. However, there is so much to see that, in all honesty, this Morocco travel itinerary is a little faster-paced than what Iโ€™m used to.ย 

Nevertheless, itโ€™s perfect if youโ€™re a backpacker who doesnโ€™t mind moving around to see the sites. Itโ€™s completely doable, and I have included two nights in Fes and three nights in Marrakech to allow plenty of time for unwinding.

Youโ€™ll move through the attractions quite fast, and if you choose any of the day tours/trips, youโ€™ll not have to worry about logistics; just turn up and have fun!

The best time to visit Morocco

Add a camel ride to a 10 day Morocco itinerary.

I think one of the best times to visit Morocco is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is warm but not extreme. In these months, Marrakech and Fes are comfortable for sightseeing.ย 

In coastal towns like Essaouira, there are cool breezes, and the Sahara Desert is at a bearable temperature, making camel trekking more fun!ย 

I visited Morocco in early May, and the weather was just rightโ€”not too hot, but warm enough to enjoy sightseeing comfortably.ย 

To appreciate this 10 day Morocco itinerary the most, spring and autumn really are the best times to visit, especially if you want to avoid the intense summer heat. Plus, itโ€™s not as packed with tourists, so wandering through the medinas and souks feels way more enjoyable.

Travel tip >> The worst time to visit the Sahara Desert is summer (June-August) when temperatures can soar above 45ยฐC (113ยฐF), making daytime exploration unbearable. Trust me, you donโ€™t want to be riding a camel in that kind of heat!

๐Ÿš‘ย DONโ€™T FORGET TRAVEL INSURANCE!

SafetyWingย is a fantastic travel medical insurance that is super affordable and great for backpackers. You can purchase a policy before or after your travels begin. ๐Ÿค—

>>ย Click here for subscription info and pricingย <<

SafetyWing Feature image

10 Days In Morocco Travel Itinerary + Map

Morocco Trip Itinerary Map

Check out all your stops on this Morocco itinerary with Google Maps.

Itinerary Day 1: Casablanca โ†’ Tangier (Arrival day)

Cliffs with ocean views in Morocco.

Iโ€™ve planned this backpacking itinerary for everyone travelling to Morocco internationally. Unless youโ€™re within Europe, flights tend to arrive in Casablanca. If you are in Europe, you can search for flights direct to Tangier, which is where Iโ€™m starting this itinerary.

Direct flights from North America to Tangier are limited; however, connections are available through European hubs if youโ€™d prefer to go direct.ย 

For those of you who are flying into Casablanca, I suggest an early morning arrival, a quick visit to Hassan II Mosque if you have time and then onwards to Tangier.ย 

Alternatively, an evening arrival with your first full day starting the next morning will give you more time to explore Casablanca before catching the train to Tangier.ย 

  • Train to Tangier (2h 10m) from Casa-Voyageurs train station.
  • Explore Tangier Medina, Hercules Caves, and Cape Spartel.
  • Enjoy the sunset at the Corniche.
  • Overnight in Tangier.

Pro tip >> Although I havenโ€™t used them before, Iโ€™ve heard Bounce is a reliable luggage storage company with a few drop sites in Casablanca. If you want to explore the city for a few hours, it might be worth checking out Bounce to store your bags.

Top attractions in Tangier

Tangier is a blend of Morocco, Europe, and the Middle East all in one. Itโ€™s nestled at the crossroads of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean and has an incredible mix of history, culture, and stunning coastal views.ย 

Expect a chaotic but charming medina, sweeping ocean views, and legendary caves linked to ancient myths. For this 10 day Morocco itinerary, Iโ€™ve highlighted four of the must-visit sites in Tangier while youโ€™re backpacking in Morocco:

  • Tangier Medina โ€“ Youโ€™ll find a maze of narrow alleyways and colourful markets. Explore the lively Grand Socco, wander up to the Kasbah for stunning sea views, and visit a cafe to enjoy a traditional mint tea.
  • Hercules Caves โ€“ A legendary sea cave tied to Greek mythology, where Hercules supposedly rested after his twelve labours. Interestingly, the opening to the sea is shaped like the map of Africa.
  • Cape Spartel โ€“ Itโ€™s a dramatic headland where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic. The historic Cape Spartel Lighthouse adds to the charm and is worth a visit.
  • Tangier Corniche โ€“ Itโ€™s a breezy promenade running along the coastline. Itโ€™s a place where both locals and tourists gather in the evening to socialise and watch the sunset.

Hotel suggestions

Here are three accommodation ideas to consider adding to your Morocco itinerary ranging from budget to mid-range (typically staying below ยฃ100 per/night):

Transport options

The best way to get from Casablanca to Tangier is to jump on the train. You could also fly; however, the train journey is much better and just as quick if you factor in airport waiting times. There is also a coach, but again, the train is more efficient and cost-effective.

If youโ€™re arriving in Tangier, which would make this Morocco backpacking itinerary smoother, the airport is Tangier-Ibn Battouta Intl. Airport. Itโ€™s about 14 km from the city centre.ย 

The easiest way to get from Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG) to the city centre is to take a taxi or a private transfer. Itโ€™s probably the most comfortable way; that said, there is an airport bus called Aerobus. Buses in Morocco, although improving, are notoriously unreliable. Therefore, I suggest using a taxi for this initial journey to save stress.ย ย 

Tour & activity suggestions

If you want to incorporate a tour, Tangier has some interesting sites; these are three of the best-rated tours to help with your planning:

Powered by GetYourGuide

Itinerary Day 2: Tangier โ†’ Chefchaouen (1 day)

Visit the blue streets of Chefchaouen on a 10 day Morocco itinerary.

Chefchaouen has Santorini vibes, although itโ€™s much more rugged and nestled within the Rif Mountains rather than by the sea. The whole town is painted in shades of blue, making it look rather magical and fairy-tale-ish.

Itโ€™s got a super chilled vibeโ€”perfect for just wandering through the narrow alleys, taking photos, or relaxing in one of the cute squares while backpacking in Morocco. Itโ€™s known to be a really friendly place, and the markets are full of handmade goodies you wonโ€™t find anywhere else.ย 

Definitely donโ€™t miss Chefchaouen from your Morocco backpacking itinerary!

  • Morning bus to Chefchaouen (2.5hrs).
  • Wander the Blue Medina and explore the blue-washed streets, relax in Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and watch the sunset from the Spanish Mosque.
  • Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Itinerary tip >> If youโ€™re removing Fes from your itinerary, you could easily add an additional day to Chefchaouen. A popular activity is the day trip to Akchour Waterfalls. Alternatively, a stop in Tetouan, with its UNESCO-listed Medina, could be worth a visit if you fancy something more historical.

Top attractions in Chefchaouen

Your visit to Chefchaouen during this 10 day itinerary is going to be fast-paced, but you can still see the highlights:

  • Chefchaouen Medina โ€“ Youโ€™ll find a dreamy maze of blue-washed alleys. Expect to see every corner filled with colourful flower pots and pretty doorways. Itโ€™s probably one of the most charming places in Morocco for photos!
  • Plaza Uta el-Hammam โ€“ This is a lively square and the best place to soak up Chefchaouenโ€™s relaxed vibe. Cafรฉs, local restaurants, and the historic Kasbah surround it.
  • Spanish Mosque โ€“ It sits on a hill overlooking the town and is a lovely sunset spot in Chefchaouen. Prepare for a 30-minute walk to the top for panoramic views of the blue city and the surrounding Rif Mountains.

Hotel suggestions

Iโ€™ve done the research and found these three charming accommodation ideas you might consider adding to your Morocco itinerary:

Transport options

There are a number of coaches leaving for Chefchaouen, or if you prefer, also shared minivans or private cars, but theyโ€™re more expensive although slightly quicker.ย 

The coaches leave five times a day:ย  7:45 AM, 9:00 Am, 12:15 PM, 3:15 PM, 28:15 PM I recommend a morning bus as the travel time is 2.5 hours and youโ€™ll want the whole day to explore Chefchaouen.

Tour & activity suggestions

If youโ€™re looking for day tours to add to this Morocco itinerary, Iโ€™ve included a few of the best-rated trips.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Itinerary Day 3 & 4: Chefchaouen โ†’ Fes (2 days)

Add the tanneries to a Morocco backpacking itinerary.

Fes has old-world charm with a touch of beautiful chaosโ€”itโ€™s Moroccoโ€™s cultural and spiritual heart. The city has an ancient medina, maze-like streets, and centuries-old traditions that are still alive today.

Itโ€™s got a buzzing but authentic atmosphereโ€”perfect for getting lost and watching artisans at work while soaking in the atmosphere of old madrasas, mosques, and palaces. Itโ€™s also home to the famous tanneries, where leather is still dyed using traditional methods.

Hereโ€™s how to explore Fes on your 10 day Morocco Itinerary:

  • Morning bus to Fes (5hrs).
  • Day 3: Explore Fes el-Bali (old medina), Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, the Tanneries and Borj Nord for views.
  • Overnight in Fes.
  • Day 4: Visit Bou Inania Madrasa and Royal Palace gates. Explore the Jewish Quarter if you have time.
  • Overnight bus to Merzouga

Top attractions in Fes

  • Fes el-Bali Medina โ€“ The old Medina is the heart of Fes and a UNESCO-listed labyrinth of over 9,000 alleyways. Itโ€™s packed with markets, mosques, and madrasas. Itโ€™s the largest pedestrian-only medina in the world!
  • Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque & University โ€“ It was founded in 859 AD and is the worldโ€™s oldest continuously operating university. While non-Muslims canโ€™t enter, you can still admire it from outside.
  • Tanneries โ€“ One of the most iconic (and smelliest!) sights in Fes, where leather is still dyed using centuries-old techniques. The Chouara Tannery is the biggest and best-known. Bring a scarf for the smell!
  • Borj Nord โ€“ This old fortress-turned-museum sits on a hill above the medina and offers some of the best panoramic views of Fes. Climb up for sunset.
  • Bou Inania Madrasa โ€“ Visit this beautifully restored 14th-century Islamic school. Unlike some religious sites, this one is open to non-Muslims, so feel free to enter and enjoy the architecture.ย 
  • Royal Palace Gates โ€“ You canโ€™t go inside, but the golden doors of the Royal Palace are a fantastic photo spot.
  • Jewish Quarter (Fes Mellah) โ€“ See a completely different side of Fes, with European-style balconies, synagogues, and a rich Jewish heritage. Visit the Ibn Danan Synagogue and explore the historic streets.

Hotel suggestions

Check out these three accommodations in Fes youโ€™re going to love!

Transport options

Similar to the above, the most economical transport option will be to book a coach from Chefchaouen to Fes. Overall, the journey is 4.15 hours.

The coaches leave five times a day, but the times arenโ€™t that convenient: 1:00 AM, 10:15 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM. The 10:15 AM morning bus is the best option; it will arrive in Fes around 2:45 PM.ย 

Tour & activity suggestions

Fes offers many day trips and tours; these are the top three most popular:

Powered by GetYourGuide

Itinerary Day 5: Fes โ†’ Merzouga (1 day)

Add a camel ride in the Sahara desert to a 10 day Morocco Itinerary.

Merzouga is the gateway to the Sahara Desert and home to the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. If youโ€™ve ever dreamed of riding a camel into the sunset or stargazing under an endless sky, this is the place to do it.

  • Take an overnight bus (10hrs).
  • Visit Khamlia Village and go Flamingo Spotting at Dayet Srji.ย 
  • Explore the Sahara dunes on a camel trek, go sandboarding or dune bashing and enjoy a desert camp.ย 
  • Overnight in Merzouga

Alternative 10 Day Morocco Itineraryย 

I want to make a few suggestions to the itinerary at this point, as there are a couple of ways to optimise your trip to Merzouga, depending on your travel style and preferences.ย 

โœ”๏ธ If youโ€™re a backpacker who prefers to explore independently, continue following this 10 day Morocco backpacking itinerary. By taking the overnight bus, youโ€™ll arrive in Merzouga early in the morning to find accommodations and tour agencies to arrange your activities for the day easily enough.ย 

โœ”๏ธOn the other hand, pre-arranged excursions can make visiting this region of Morocco much more manageable, especially since this is a fast-paced itinerary. There is a 3-day tour from Fes to Marrakech via Merzouga, which utilises time and is surprisingly affordable; itโ€™s actually more affordable than an independent trip.ย 

Youโ€™ll have to sacrifice a day in either Fes or Marrakech, but you gain a visit to Aรฏt Benhaddou, plus all the goodies from the desert, aka camel riding and desert camp. The long drive back to Marrakech is less intense, with multiple stops.

Although Iโ€™ve not done this tour, I think itโ€™s worth considering, even if you prefer not booking tours like this. It will save time and money and has a lot of good reviews!

Top attractions in Merzouga

  • Camel Trek โ€“ The ultimate Sahara experience is to ride a camel through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi at sunrise or sunset.ย 
  • Desert Camp Under the Stars โ€“ Spend the night in a traditional Berber camp with a crackling fire, local music, and a sky packed with more stars than youโ€™ve ever seen. Waking up to the first light over the dunes is pure magic.
  • Sandboarding โ€“ If you love a bit of adventure, grab a board and slide down the soft dunes like you would on snow.ย 
  • 4ร—4 Dune Bashing โ€“ For a faster-paced thrill, hop into a 4ร—4 and race across the dunes.ย 
  • Visit Khamlia Village โ€“ A small village known for its Gnawa music, brought by descendants of West African slaves.ย 
  • Flamingo Spotting at Dayet Srji โ€“ If you visit in winter or early spring, check out this seasonal lake just outside Merzouga. It attracts flocks of flamingos and other migratory birds.

Hotel suggestions

If youโ€™re travelling to Merzouga independently, there are charming desert camps for you to consider, but they are all very similar, to be honest:

Transport suggestions

The journey to Merzouga is going to take a long time, so prepare yourselves for a lot of travel. The best way to optimise this 10 day Morocco itinerary is to travel through the night to the desert.ย 

The overnight coach leaves Fes at 8:30 PM and arrives in Merzouga at 6:15 AM. There is only one departure time, so I highly recommend booking these tickets in advance!

There are options for private cars and shared taxis, which allow for more flexibility; however, overnight buses can be surprisingly more comfortable than minivans.ย 

  • Coach, shared minivan or private car from Fes to Merzouga: Check prices and departure times.
  • Optional: If youโ€™re removing Fes (or any other destinations) from this 10 day Morocco itinerary, you could easily add the 3-day desert tour to Merzouga. This is a hugely popular activity. Alternatively, if you prefer to spend less time in Marrakech, an additional day could be spent in Merzouga.

Tour & activity suggestions

Here are a few desert excursions you might want to add to your itinerary:

Powered by GetYourGuide

Itinerary Day 6, 7 & 8: Merzouga โ†’ Marrakech (1 long travel day + 2 days)

Abi at Bahia Palace om Marrakech, Morocco.

Marrakech is a mix of ancient traditions, buzzing souks, and stunning architecture. Itโ€™s the kind of place where you can wander from a centuries-old palace into a lively market and then escape the chaos in a peaceful courtyard.

Itโ€™s got a fast-paced but exciting energy that I love and is perfect for exploring Moroccoโ€™s famous souks. Itโ€™s one of the most unforgettable places in Morocco!

Hereโ€™s how to explore Marrakech:

  • Day 1: Bus to Marrakech (12hrs).
  • Arrive in the evening and explore Jemaa el-Fnaa and the souks.
  • Overnight in Marrakech.
  • Day 2: Visit Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Mosque, and Majorelle Garden. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant.
  • Overnight in Marrakech.
  • Day 3: Day trip to Aรฏt Benhaddou or Ouzoud Waterfalls
  • Overnight in Marrakechย 

If youโ€™ve opted for the Fes to Marrakech: 3-Day Sahara Desert Discovery Tour, youโ€™ll only have 1 day to explore Marrakech. I recommend:

  • Visit the Souks, Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, and Majorelle Garden. Enjoy an evening at Jemaa el-Fnaa and dinner at a rooftop restaurant.
  • Overnight in Marrakech.

Top attractions in Marrakech

  • Jemaa el-Fnaa โ€“ This lively market square is the heart of Marrakech. Itโ€™s a fun place to visit, packed with food stalls, street performers, and musicians.ย 
  • Souks of Marrakech โ€“ I think the souk is one of the most famous places in Morocco. Youโ€™ll find a maze of market stalls selling everything from colourful lanterns to handwoven rugs.ย 
  • Bahia Palace โ€“ This is a stunning 19th-century palace with intricate tilework, lush courtyards, and peaceful gardens. It was built to be the grandest palace of its time, and itโ€™s still one of Marrakechโ€™s most beautiful spots.
  • Saadian Tombs โ€“ A hidden gem for centuries, these ornate royal tombs date back to the 16th century.ย 
  • Koutoubia Mosque โ€“ The largest mosque in Marrakech is one of the cityโ€™s most famous landmarks. Non-Muslims canโ€™t enter, but you can admire it from the outside.
  • Majorelle Garden โ€“ Itโ€™s a dreamy botanical garden with blue buildings, exotic plants, and tranquil water features.
  • Aรฏt Benhaddou (Day Trip) โ€“ The UNESCO-listed kasbah is made of mud-brick and set against a desert backdrop. It looks pretty cool and has been used as a filming location for Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
  • Ouzoud Waterfalls (Day Trip) โ€“ Itโ€™s one of Moroccoโ€™s most impressive waterfalls, tumbling down into a lush valley. Itโ€™s possible to hike around the falls or take a boat ride to the base.

Hotel suggestions

Iโ€™ve researched three accommodation ideas to consider adding to your itinerary:

Transport options

If travelling independently, the coach takes 12 hours from Merzouga to Marrakech, so youโ€™ll need to put aside a travel day. There are quite a few drawbacks to travelling all day like this; however, one of the benefits is that it will give you time to relax.ย 

Alternatively, you could opt for an overnight shared minivan or private car to Marrakech. This will give you more time in Merzouga while still giving you two days in the city. However, you may be overly tired if you donโ€™t rest well in cars. Itโ€™s also going to be triple the price.

Travel tip >> The coach departs Merzouga at 7:30 AM and arrives in Marrakech at 7:30 PM. There is only one departure time, so I highly suggest booking these tickets in advance!

Tour & activity suggestions

If youโ€™re interested in a tour, maybe one of these day trips would make a good addition to your 10 day Morocco itinerary. Iโ€™ve selected the best-rated and most popular.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Itinerary Day 9: Marrakech โ†’ Essaouira (1 day)

Add a Essaouira to a 10 day Morocco itinerary for laid back vibes.

Essaouira has that perfect mix of laid-back coastal vibes and Moroccan charm. Itโ€™s a breezy, whitewashed port city with a blend of Portuguese, French, and Berber influences, giving it a totally unique feel.

Itโ€™s got a super chilled atmosphere. Itโ€™s also a hotspot for seafood lovers and has some of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing in Morocco!

  • Morning bus to Essaouira (3hrs).
  • Explore the Medina, Moulay Hassan Square and Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at the port and Skala de la Ville for sunset.
  • Overnight in Essaouira.

Top attractions in Essaouira

  • Medina of Essaouira โ€“ Another lovely old town to wander through, Essaouiraโ€™s laid-back medina is also a UNESCO Work Heritage Site of white and blue streets filled with artisan shops.ย 
  • Medina of Essaouira โ€“ Another lovely old town to wander through, Essaouiraโ€™s laid-back medina is also a UNESCO Work Heritage Site of white and blue streets filled with artisan shops.ย 
  • Moulay Hassan Square โ€“ This is a bustling square in the heart of the Medina. Itโ€™s another spot that cafรฉs, restaurants, and shops surround. It leads straight to the port, where you can enjoy the seafood stalls.
  • Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum โ€“ A small museum showcasing Essaouiraโ€™s history that is housed in a beautiful riad.
  • Fresh Seafood at the Port โ€“ Head to the bustling fishing port, where you can watch fishermen haul in the dayโ€™s catch. Pick your seafood straight from the stalls and have it grilled fresh on the spot.
  • Skala de la Ville โ€“ This historic sea bastion offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the medina. The ramparts are lined with old cannons. Itโ€™s a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the water and end your 10 day Morocco Itinerary.

Hotel suggestions

Here are three accommodation ideas you might be interested in adding to your Morocco itinerary:

Transport options

Multiple coaches depart from Marrakech throughout the day. I suggest a morning coach, so youโ€™ll arrive in Essaouira before midday (itโ€™s a 3-hour journey) and have enough time to stroll around the town. Itโ€™s not too big, and youโ€™ll want to stick to the Medina; this is where the attractions are.

Top tip >> The 8:00 AM or 9:05 AM coach will get you to Essaouira by midday.

Tour & activity suggestions

Choose from some of the top-rated tours in Essaouira:

Powered by GetYourGuide

Itinerary Day 10: Essaouira โ†’ Marrakech (departure day)

Abi and Steve enjoying a meal in Morocco.

Spend your last morning grabbing breakfast in Essaouira overlooking the ocean.ย 

  • Morning at leisure in Essaouira.
  • Return to Casablanca (5h) or Marrakech (3h) for your flight.
  • If flying from Casablanca, visit Rickโ€™s Cafรฉ or the Corniche before departure.

I recommend planning a departure flight that leaves in the evening, so you have plenty of time to reach the airport from Essaouira.ย 

If youโ€™re heading back to Casablanca, there is a bus direct from Essaouira. It takes 5 hours to get to the bus station, half an hour to get to the train station and another half an hour to get to the airport.ย 

At this point, itโ€™s worth budgeting for a taxi straight to the airport from the bus station in Casablanca or (if budget allows) from Essaouira.ย 

Alternatively,ย 


Alternative 12-14 Day Morocco Itinerary

For a more relaxed and slower-paced holiday, here are some ideas for a 12-14 day version. Add extra nights:

โœ”๏ธ +1 night in Tetouan (to explore the charming Spanish Quarter and UNESCO-listed Medina).
โœ”๏ธ +1 night in Chefchaouen (if you love relaxing in the Blue City or want a day trip to Akchour Waterfalls).
โœ”๏ธ +1 night in Meknes (to visit the stunning Bab Mansour Gate, Royal Stables, and Volubilis).
โœ”๏ธ +1 night in the Desert (for a slower experience, quad biking, or more time in the dunes).
โœ”๏ธ +1 night in Essaouira (to unwind by the coast, try surfing, or enjoy a relaxed beach day).

This extended version gives you more time to explore hidden gems, take day trips, and reduce long travel days.ย 

Enjoying this blog? All my content is free, but I do spend a lot of time in coffee shops. If youโ€™re finding my content helpful and would like to buy me a coffee, Iโ€™d love that! Thank you ๐Ÿค—


Best Rated Day Trips in Morocco

During your 10 day Morocco itinerary, there are a few opportunities for guided tours. I feel a combination of independent exploration and group tours offers the perfect balance for a backpacking itinerary of this style.

Here areย  three of the best-rated day trips in Morocco for the destinations Iโ€™ve featured:

Powered by GetYourGuide

How Safe Is Morocco To Travel Around?

I felt safe in Morocco, but I was travelling with my dad, so I wasnโ€™t solo. Like anywhere, itโ€™s all about being aware of your surroundings. The medinas and cities are busy, full of life, and generally safe, but youโ€™ll want to keep an eye out for pickpockets and the usual travel scamsโ€”just like in any major tourist destination.

I found the locals to be friendly and welcoming, but you might get a bit of hassle in the souks, especially as a tourist. A firm but polite โ€œnot todayโ€ (with a smile) usually does the trick.ย 

If youโ€™re travelling solo, especially as a woman, you might get some unwanted attention, but dressing modestly and walking with confidence helps.ย 

Overall, Morocco is a fantastic place to travel aroundโ€”you just need to use common sense, trust your gut, and enjoy the adventure!


10 Day Morocco Itinerary FAQs

A long road in Morocco with cliffs either side.

How can I plan a budget-friendly trip to Morocco?
Morocco is an excellent destination for budget travellers! Hereโ€™s how I keep costs low:

  • Use Public Transport โ€“ Trains and buses (like CTM or Supratours) are much cheaper than private transfers.
  • Stay in Riads or Hostels โ€“ Youโ€™ll find budget-friendly riads and hostels in most cities, often with breakfast included.
  • Eat at Local Spots โ€“ Stick to street food, markets, and small local eateries for delicious and cheap meals.
  • Negotiate Everything โ€“ Bargaining is expected in souks, taxis (except for metered ones), and even some hotels.
  • Skip Expensive Tours โ€“ Many places can be visited independently; if you want a desert tour, book in Merzouga for the best rates.

Is there internet in Morocco?
WiFi is available in most hotels, riads, and cafรฉs, but it can be slow. If you need reliable internet, grab a local SIM card at the airport for cheap data.

How do I pay in Morocco?

  • Cash is kingย โ€“ Most small shops and souks only accept Moroccan Dirhams (MAD).
  • ATMsย โ€“ These are easy to find, but some charge a high withdrawal fee.
  • Credit cardsย โ€“ Accepted in hotels, fancy restaurants, and big shops, but not everywhere.
  • Tippingย โ€“ Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 10% at restaurants is appreciated.ย 

What are some of the best off-the-beaten-path places to explore in Morocco?
If you want to go beyond the usual tourist spots, here are some incredible hidden gems in Morocco you could consider adding to your backpacking itinerary:

  • Legzira Beach โ€“ A stunning red rock arch beach south of Agadir, perfect for sunsets and photography.
  • Akchour Waterfalls โ€“ A beautiful hiking spot near Chefchaouen with waterfalls and natural rock pools.
  • Sidi Ifni โ€“ A laid-back coastal town with a Spanish colonial feel and great seafood.
  • Tafraoute โ€“ A gorgeous mountain town with surreal painted rocks and authentic Berber culture.
  • Dakhla โ€“ A remote desert-meets-ocean destination, perfect for kitesurfing and spotting flamingos.
  • Ouzoud Waterfalls โ€“ A lush green waterfall escape where you might spot wild monkeys.

The Wrap-Up: 10 Day Morocco Itinerary

Iโ€™ve created this 10 day Morocco itinerary to offer the perfect blend of adventure and culture, allowing you to experience the best of Morocco without the need for a car.ย 

When you get to Morocco, remember to embrace the local culture, try the cuisine, and take in the sights along the way. With my practical tips on transport and accommodation, hopefully, youโ€™ll find it easy to navigate this enchanting country and make the most of your time there!

I hope this Morocco travel itinerary has been helpful and ensures you have a fantastic and memorable backpacking experience.ย 

Thank you for reading my post. You can find my latest stories and articles on my blog homepage here. Follow me on Instagram (#igoa.adventure) and Facebook to see what Iโ€™m getting up to and where my next upcoming trips are!

I'm Going On An Adventure (igoa-adventure) travel blog
Thanks for reading. If you have any questions, shoot me a message.

Helpful? Please help me share ๐Ÿค—

10 Day Morocco Itinerary Pin 1
10 Day Morocco Itinerary Pin 2