Quick answer: Morocco’s four imperial cities are Marrakech, Fes, Meknes and Rabat – each was a royal capital. A classic imperial cities tour takes 6–8 days, usually starting in Casablanca, visiting Rabat, Meknes and Volubilis, Fes and Chefchaouen, and ending in Marrakech, often with a detour to the Sahara.
An imperial cities tour is the best way to understand Moroccan history: four former capitals, each with its own medina, palaces and monuments. Here is what to see and how to plan the route.
The four imperial cities
| City | Capital under | Don’t miss |
|---|---|---|
| Fes | Idrisids, Marinids | Fes el-Bali medina, Al-Qarawiyyin, tanneries |
| Marrakech | Almoravids, Almohads, Saadians | Koutoubia, Saadian Tombs, Jemaa el-Fna |
| Meknes | Moulay Ismail (17th c.) | Bab Mansour, royal granaries |
| Rabat | Current capital | Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan Tower |
Fes: the spiritual capital
Fes el-Bali is one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. Take a guided tour to visit the Bou Inania madrasa, the Chouara tannery and craft workshops. See things to do in Fes.
Meknes and Volubilis
Meknes, Moulay Ismail’s capital, is famous for the monumental Bab Mansour gate. Combine it with Volubilis, the Roman ruins with superb mosaics, and the holy town of Moulay Idriss.
Rabat: the modern capital
Rabat is relaxed and green, with the blue-and-white Kasbah of the Udayas overlooking the ocean, the unfinished Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum. More in our Rabat travel guide.
Marrakech: the red city
Marrakech is the most vibrant of the four, with Jemaa el-Fna square, the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs and the Majorelle Garden. Use our 3-day Marrakech itinerary.
How many days do you need?
Six days is the minimum to see all four cities plus Chefchaouen. Eight days lets you add the Sahara between Fes and Marrakech, and 12–13 days covers the imperial cities, the desert and the north at a relaxed pace.
Tours related to this guide
- 6-Day Imperial Cities Tour
- 8-Day Tour: Marrakech, Desert, Fez, Chefchaouen & Rabat
- 12-Day Circuit: Imperial Cities, Desert & North
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Frequently asked questions
What are the imperial cities of Morocco?
Marrakech, Fes, Meknes and Rabat – all four have served as capitals of Moroccan dynasties.
How many days do I need for an imperial cities tour?
At least 6 days; 8 days if you want to include the Sahara desert.
Which imperial city is the best?
Fes for history and crafts, Marrakech for atmosphere, Rabat for a relaxed capital and Meknes for monumental gates. Each is worth visiting.
Where does an imperial cities tour start?
Usually in Casablanca or Marrakech, as both have international airports.