5-Day Northern Imperial Cities Tour Highlights
- The Blue Pearl: Lose yourself in the indigo-washed sanctuary of Chefchaouen nestled in the Rif.
- Roman Magnificence: Walk the triumphal arches and admire the mosaics of ancient Volubilis.
- Imperial Grandeur: Discover the massive gates and royal granaries of the Ismaili capital, Meknes.
- Fes Immersion: A deep-dive guided tour of Fes el-Bali, the world’s largest medieval medina.
- Atlantic Majesty: Visit the Hassan Tower and the cliffside Kasbah of the Oudayas in Rabat.
5-Day Northern Imperial Cities Tour Itinerary
Tangier Arrival – Chefchaouen
Your 5-day Northern Imperial Cities tour begins at the legendary gateway of Africa. Your private driver will meet you at the Tangier port or airport to begin our ascent into the rugged Rif Mountains. We arrive in Chefchaouen, the world-famous “Blue City.” This afternoon is yours to wander through a medina that feels like a sapphire dream, every alleyway offers a different shade of blue, from deep indigo to pale cobalt. Visit the Spanish Mosque for a panoramic view of the town as the sun sets, or relax in the bustling Outa el-Hammam square, where the red walls of the Kasbah provide a striking contrast to the blue-washed houses that surround it.
Overnight: Riad in ChefchaouenChefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes
Our first stop today is Volubilis, the most significant Roman archaeological site in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Here, you will stand beneath the Triumphal Arch and marvel at incredibly preserved mosaics that depict Roman myths in vivid detail. Following this journey into antiquity, we arrive in Meknes, the former capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail. You will stand before the monumental Bab el-Mansour—widely considered the most beautiful gate in North Africa, and explore the Royal Stables, a masterpiece of 17th-century engineering designed to house thousands of horses. Meknes provides a dignified, quieter Imperial experience that resonates with history at every turn.
Overnight: Riad in MeknesMeknes – Fes Full Guided Tour
A short morning drive brings us to Fes, the spiritual and intellectual pulse of the Kingdom. Today is an immersive deep-dive into the world’s largest car-free urban space. Accompanied by your private local guide, you will navigate the 9,000 labyrinthine alleys of Fes el-Bali. You will witness the ancestral techniques of the Chouara Tannery, admire the intricate stucco and zellij tilework of the Bou Inania Madrasa, and see the Al-Qarawiyyin University, the oldest degree-granting institution on earth. This day of the 5-day Northern Imperial Cities tour is a sensory feast, the scent of cedarwood, the rhythmic sound of hammered copper, and the vibrant colors of the spice souks.
Overnight: Riad in FesFes – Rabat
We depart the medieval complexity of Fes and travel toward the refreshing Atlantic coast to reach Rabat, Morocco’s modern and elegant administrative capital. Rabat is a city of broad, palm-lined boulevards and historic fortresses. We explore the iconic Hassan Tower, an ambitious 12th-century minaret left unfinished, and the nearby Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a stunning example of modern Alawite architecture featuring hand-carved wood, marble, and bronze. We also wander the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a white-and-blue walled fortress that sits on a cliff overlooking the ocean and the mouth of the Bou Regreg river. The afternoon allows for a relaxed stroll along the riverfront or through the botanical beauty of the Andalusian Gardens, offering a peaceful, coastal contrast to the high energy of the previous days on your 5-day Northern Imperial Cities tour.
Overnight: Riad/Hotel in RabatRabat – Tangier Departure
On your final day of the 5-day Northern Imperial Cities tour, we begin our journey northward back to the Mediterranean. We follow the coastal route, passing through the diverse landscapes of the Moroccan littoral. Your driver will provide a comfortable, private transfer directly back to Tangier, dropping you at the airport, the ferry terminal, or your hotel to conclude your 5-day Northern Imperial Cities tour.
End of TripInclusions
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional private driver throughout the journey
- Transfers in Tangier (Airport or Port)
- 4 Nights in handpicked Riads/Hotels
- Daily Breakfast
- Private local licensed guide in Fes
- Visits to Volubilis, Meknes, and Rabat
- Fresh bottled water and 24/7 travel support
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Lunches and dinners
- Entrance fees to monuments/attractions
- Personal expenses and tips
Know Before You Go
- Walking in the Medinas: The old cities of Fes and Chefchaouen are pedestrian-only. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for the guided tours.
- Dress Code: While Northern Morocco is cosmopolitan, we recommend modest dress (covering shoulders and knees) when visiting religious sites or traditional neighborhoods.
- Arrival Information: If you are arriving by ferry from Spain, our driver will meet you at the Port of Tangier Ville or Tangier Med (please specify your arrival point).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the 5-day Northern Imperial Cities tour is excellent for families as it involves shorter driving distances compared to desert routes and offers a mix of history and scenic beauty.
Can we customize the cities visited?
Absolutely. While this 5-day itinerary covers the northern highlights, we can adjust the pace or add stops like Asilah or Tetouan based on your interests.
Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees to monuments (such as Volubilis or Madrasas) are not included to give you flexibility on what you choose to enter during your walk-throughs.
Start Your Heritage Journey
This 5-day Northern Imperial Cities tour is meticulously designed to offer a deep connection to the history and beauty of Northern Morocco and the Imperial Cities.
Morocco Best Trips – We prioritize authentic, private journeys that reveal the true heart of our Moroccan heritage.