Over the centuries four cities have served as the capital of Morocco — Fes, Marrakech, Meknes and Rabat. Each dynasty left its mark, and together they tell the story of the country.
Fes
The oldest of the four and the spiritual heart of Morocco. Its medina, Fes el-Bali, is the largest car-free urban area in the world, and is home to Al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 and often described as the oldest continually operating university on earth.
Marrakech
The red city, founded in 1062 by the Almoravids. Life still revolves around the Jemaa el-Fna square, the labyrinth of souks, and gardens such as the Majorelle and the Menara, with the High Atlas rising white on the horizon.
Meknes
Sometimes called the Moroccan Versailles, Meknes was transformed into a grand imperial capital by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, with monumental gates and vast granaries and stables.
Rabat
The capital today, and the most relaxed of the four. Highlights include the Kasbah of the Udayas above the river, the unfinished Hassan Tower, and a walkable, elegant city centre.
Nearby: Volubilis
An easy add-on from Fes or Meknes, Volubilis is the best-preserved Roman site in Morocco, its mosaics and columns spread across a hillside of wildflowers.
See the cities on a private, tailor-made route across Morocco.
See the cities trip