Discover all 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Morocco

With 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Morocco, your time there must be well-planned. These sites, dotted throughout the country, showcase a unique blend of Arab, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Roman influences.

Let’s have a look at how you can plan your own epic trip through Morocco while including some, if not all, of these sites in your itinerary.  

The 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Morocco

Below are all nine of Morocco’s UNESCO Sites and the dates they were inscribed.

But if you really want to get into the culture, there are 14 other intangible cultural heritage sites that include things like centuries-old metal engraving techniques, falconry, Gnawa music, and Arabic calligraphy.  

Medina of Fez – 1981 

While you may find yourself getting lost within the labyrinth of narrow passageways in the medina, you’ll quickly discover the magic of this ancient Moroccan gem. 

Location 

You will find the city of Fez in the northern area of Morocco. If this is your first stop, you can fly directly into the Fez International Airport (FEZ). 

If not, getting to Fez from Casablanca or Marrakesh is easy.

Significance 

This medina was founded in the 9th century, making it older than Marrakech. A visit here provides a fascinating insight into the medieval world. 

Today, you can still find people baking bread, dying leather, and weaving cloth like they have for centuries. 

The well-preserved mosques, palaces, fountains and residential homes within the city walls date back to the 13th and 14th centuries, making it Morocco’s best-preserved old city. 

How to explore it

The best way to explore the medina of Fez is by a self-guided or guided walking tour. 

If exploring on your own, start at the Blue Gate, Bab Bou Jeloud, on the west side of the medina. 

As you wander around, you will come across the infamous tanneries where animal skins such as goats, sheep, and camels are soaked and dried before being made into leather products. The smell is hard to bear, but it’s fascinating to view.  

Pro tip: When you need a break, head for a cup of mint tea and lunch in Place Seffarine. You’ll need the energy boost before visiting the souks, which sell everything from clothes and jewelry to rugs and ceramics. 

Medina of Marrakech – 1985

Note: On September 8, 2023, a massive earthquake rocked Marrakech, and parts of the medina were severely damaged. However, they’ve been rebuilding as quickly as possible, and all tourism dollars will help.

It’s no surprise that the medina of Marrakech is a famous tourist mecca, with 19km (5.6 miles) of pink walls surrounding the perimeter. 

Location 

When looking at a map, Marrakech is positioned in the central region of the country at the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. 

You can take a bus, train, or minivan from Fez to Marrakech. 

Significance 

After the city was founded in the 11th century, it became a major political, economic, and cultural center for the Western Muslim world. 

The medina’s long history is still clearly visible, with many landmarks such as the mosques, palaces and museums remaining. 

To this day, it’s still common to spot donkey carts being used instead of cars. 

How to explore it

Some consider the medina to be a chaotic place. Still, when properly explored, you can admire the square riads, traditional houses, and peaceful courtyards. 

Start your visit at the Jemaa el-Fna Square, the heart and soul of the city. 

Afterward, head to Madrasa Ben Youssef, once an Islamic College, to appreciate the remarkable architectural details. 

Of course, you can’t miss the souks and traditional traders’ markets. At Souk Semmarine, you can find antiques, jewelry and carpets, while at Souk el Attarine, there are towers of spices and silver teapots.  

Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou – 1987 

If you’re looking for a unique spot to visit, Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou stands out due to its construction from rammed earth mixed with straw, clay bricks and wood. 

Location 

This UNESCO site is between Marrakech and the Sahara Desert in the province of Ouarzazate. 

From Marrakech to Ksar Ait-Ben-Haddou, it will take you 4 hours in a tourist minivan. 

Significance 

It is believed that this fortified village was built in the 17th century as a convenient stopover for traders who were traveling between Marrakech and the Sahara Desert. 

As it was ruled by various tribes and families, the city reflects a blend of Berber, Arabic and Saharan styles. 

The famous earthen clay architecture makes it one of the most photographed sites in the country. 

How to explore it 

The best way to explore is on foot. This gives you the best glimpse into the past. 

You will want to visit the towering kasbahs (mud-brick fortresses), which today are mainly uninhabited, as well as the mosque. 

As Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is located on top of a hill, you will have fantastic views of the Moroccan mountain landscape. 

Historic City of Meknes – 1987

For history buffs, the historic city of Meknes is more authentic and untouched than other cities in Morocco. 

Location 

Situated in the northern part of the country, Meknes is easily reachable from the cities of Rabat and Fez. 

From Rabat to Meknes, it will take you two hours by bus, and from Fez to Meknes, only one hour on a bus. 

Significance

As one of the four imperial cities in Morocco, the Meknes boasts a rich historical legacy. During the 17th century, it served as the capital of Morocco, and a collection of palaces and mosques was built. 

How to explore it 

Whether you explore on your own or with a tour guide, be sure to admire the outside of the old city with its four-cornered towers and nine impressive architectural gates. 

Bab Mansour, one of the gates in front of Hedim Square, is a great place to enter the medina’s maze-like streets. Once inside, you can visit Bou Inania, which was both a school and a mosque. 

Also, stop by the Royal Stables and the bustling markets known for their handicrafts.  

Medina of Tetouan – 1997

If you want to head off the tourist route, head to Tetouan, which offers its original medina but is also close to some of the best beaches in the country. 

Location 

Located in the north of Morocco, Tetouan is found at the base of the Rif Mountains. If you are coming from Tangier to Tetouan, it’s an easy 40-minute train ride or a one-hour bus ride.

Other options are about 2.5 hours from Rabat or six hours from Marrakech.

Significance 

This city may have been founded in the 15th century by Muslim and Jewish refugees, but later on, it was ruled by the Spanish. Today, the influence of the three cultures can still be seen in the city’s architecture, shops and museums. 

As you wander around, you will see the alleys lined with green and white houses similar to those in Seville and Granada in Spain. 

How to explore it 

You’ll notice the energy of the medina as soon as you step inside. Of course, there will be tourists, but most people are locals inside their workshops or going about their daily lives buying fresh fruit and vegetables. 

Wander around, soak up the atmosphere and make a stop at the local markets. 

Archaeological Site of Volubilis – 1997 

This is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Morocco that is completely uninhabited. You’ll be able to wander around the ancient ruins and imagine what life was once like. 

Location 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Morocco is close to Fez and Meknes, so why not take a day trip? 

It is only 1 hour and 30 minutes from Fez and 45 minutes away from Meknes by car. 

Significance 

In the 3rd century BC, a small settlement group known as the Mauritanian Kingdom resided in Volubilis. 

At the time, they built a defensive wall encompassing 30 acres (12 hectares), but it wasn’t until 40 AD that the Romans established a city there. Volubilis grew to approximately 99 acres (40 hectares) before being abandoned in the 11th century. 

How to explore it 

Even though no one has resided there in years, remnants of the city remain as they once were. 

The best way to explore is by taking a tour. This way, you can understand what each structure once was. 

Pay attention to all the details in the tiles, mosaics, and triumphal archway. 

Medina of Essaouira – 2001 

Positioned on the coast of the country, this medina is for architecture enthusiasts and fresh seafood lovers. 

Location 

You’ll find this Atlantic coast city three hours west of Marrakech. From Marrakech to Essaouira, the easiest way to travel is by bus. 

Significance 

This medina was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the method by which it was built and its state of preservation. When the Romans ruled, Essaouira was a significant exporter of things like dyes, weapons, and sugar in exchange for slaves, ivory and gold. 

In the 18th century, Mohammed Ben Abdallah, the Sultan of Morocco at the time, hired a French architect to design the medina. It looks more like a European town than a traditional medina maze. 

How to explore it 

The best way to take in the architecture and blue and white buildings is to wander on foot. 

Enter through the Bab el-Sebaa gate. It will lead you to the old kasbah, the first area built. This was where the Sultan, administrations, and European consuls resided. 

With its location close to the sea, of course, you have to try some fresh seafood. Head to the fish market in the heart of the medina for the daily catch cooked up on the spot. 

Portuguese City of El Jadida – 2004

Situated on the west coast, you can explore a bustling and colorful port town before heading to the nearby golden sandy beaches.

Location 

You can find the Portuguese City of El Jadida, 90 km (56 miles) south of Casablanca, a city with one of the major international airports in the country.

From Casablanca to El Jadida, it will take 1 hour and 15 minutes by bus.   

Significance 

This city was constructed by the Portuguese, who first settled there as a stopover on the Indian trade routes. The fortress they built was to protect the thriving port city. 

Not only that, but El Jadida is recognized for its fusion of elements, technology, town planning, and a mix of European and Moroccan cultures. 

Fun fact: The city was called Mazagan before it became El Jadida in 1815. 

How to explore it 

Wander around, take in the architecture, and get lost in the narrow alleyways. You may even stumble across some hidden courtyards. 

One of the highlights is viewing four of the five original bastions, which can be explored by a walkway with incredible views. And don’t forget to look at the mosque and Portuguese cistern. The latter was featured in the famous film Othello. 

Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City – 2012 

As the capital city of Morocco, Rabat is home to a blend of old and new. Historic landmarks and monuments, as well as a green belt that goes around the entirety of the city. 

Location 

On the Atlantic coast, Rabat is situated in the north-west of Morocco. 

From Fez to Rabat, it will take 2 hours and 45 minutes by bus; from Casablanca to Rabat, it will only take one hour on a bus. 

Significance 

Together, the modern capital and historic city represent a blend between the Arabo-Muslim past and Western modernism. 

You have the modern capital, built from 1912 to the 1930s by the French Protectorate. It’s known as one of the largest and most ambitious modern urban projects of its time. 

On the flip side is the kasbah and the historic medina, home to narrow streets, idyllic buildings and lively markets. 

How to explore it 

It is best explored on foot. 

Start your visit at the Hassan Mosque, which is sadly just ruins after being destroyed by the Portuguese during the raids in the 16th century. 

Afterward, head to the medina by the sea. Enter through the Bab Oudaïa gate and purchase some teapots, leather bags, and carpets as souvenirs. 

Just up the hill is the Kasbah of the Udayas, a well-preserved fortress ideal for taking in the outstanding views over Rabat. 

Map of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Morocco 

Now that you’ve narrowed down which sites you wish to add to your itinerary (or perhaps all of them), it’s time to view their locations on a map. 

Weather in Morocco 

When planning your trip, knowing the best time to visit Morocco is essential. But that depends on which region you visit. 

In coastal areas like Rabat and Casablanca, you’ll experience mild, wet winters from December to February and hot, dry summers from June to August. The average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in winter and 25°C (77°F) in summer. 

Inland in Marrakech, Fez and Meknes, temperatures vary throughout the year. Expect hot and dry summers with temperatures soaring as high as 40°C (104°F). In the winter months, it’s the other extreme, with temperatures dropping as low as 0°C (32°F) in some areas.  

Of course, you also have the Sahara Desert, which includes the regions of Merzouga and Zagora. There, you will find a dramatic difference in temperature between day and night. During summer, temperatures can soar above 45°C (113°F). 

Packing list essentials for Morocco 

It’s important to keep in mind that the temperatures in Morocco can get particularly hot during the primary tourist months of June to August. 

Think light, breathable clothing. 

You will also need to be respectful of the culture, so dressing conservatively is important. This means you should try to cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing anything see-through. You may even want to pack a scarf so that you can throw it over your shoulders when entering mosques or religious sites. 

Pro tip: Cities such as Marrakech and Fez are less strict when it comes to the dress code, seeing as they attract the most tourists. When visiting rural areas, the dress codes are less lenient. 

As you will be doing a lot of walking, pack some comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or sandals. 

Even if you don’t plan to laze in the sun, pack an SPF30+ sunscreen as well as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. 

Pro tip: Some public bathrooms don’t have toilet paper. Carry a packet of tissues with you at all times. 

How to get to and around Morocco 

When starting your trip in Morocco, there are several airports where you can arrive. 

The main two are Casablanca Mohammed V Airport and Marrakech Menara Airport.

Casablanca is better positioned to visit the cities of Rabat, Meknes and Fez. From Casablanca to Rabat it will take you one hour by bus and from Casablanca to Meknes it will take you three hours by bus. 

Marrakech is a great starting spot when heading to Ait-Ben-Haddou or Essaouira. From Marrakech to Ait-Ben Haddou, it will take you four hours in a tourist minivan; from Marrakech to Essaouira, it will take you three hours by bus. 

Moroccan UNESCO Sites Wrap-Up

So, now you know all about the nine UNESCO sites in Morocco. The question is, how many do you have time to see? Thankfully, traveling around the country is budget-friendly, so if you plan it well, you could visit them all.

And, if you have more time, the national parks in Morocco are what nature lovers dream about. Their raw beauty is as breathtaking as the UNESCO sites. 

Have fun discovering everything this unique country offers!

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