Morocco Travel Guide: Fes, Rabat, Tangier & What No One Tells You (Part II)

The greenery, the ghost vibes, and the seaside modern twist I didn’t see coming. This Fes to Rabat travel guide post is a Part II of my 9-day group trip to Morocco. Check out the Part I here.

🕌 Day 4: From Marrakech → Casablanca → Fes

We hit the road early with a quick stop in Casablanca to visit the Hassan II Mosque. While we missed the interior tour (long story), the outside alone was jaw-dropping.

Total drive time this day: about 7 hours. Long, but scenic.

🏡 Where We Stayed in Fes:

A traditional Riad booked by the tour company. Honestly? I don’t recommend it.

I’ll be sharing more about that specific experience on my Substack — let’s just say: flickering lights, strange vibes, and a window that faced… the hallway. If you’re sensitive to energy, choose your Riad carefully.

🧭 Day 5: Deep Cultural Tour + Artisan Workshops

We spent the whole day diving into the rich culture of Fes:

The Royal Palace
Al Quaraouine University
The Attarine Madrasa
Local ceramic and textile workshops
Leather dye pits (iconic, but bring a scarf for the smell)

I loved seeing how the artisans crafted everything by hand — it gave me a deeper appreciation for Moroccan goods.

The girls in our group also did a Moroccan cooking class, and they raved about it!

🌊 Day 6: On to Rabat (aka Morocco’s Modern Gem)

Of all the places we visited, Rabat surprised me the most — clean, by the sea, and full of coastal charm.

Where We Stayed:
This Airbnb with a sea view and spacious rooms.
Only downside? Spotty Wi-Fi outside of common areas.

🌇 Day 7: Old City + Tea Break with a View

We explored Rabat’s old medina — white-walled alleyways that gave Greek island vibes.

We asked for a local tea spot and ended up at a serene café with a sea view. Mint tea + Moroccan cookies = yes, please.

🚤 Day 8: Day Trip to Tangier

Quick drive north and we were in Tangier — where Morocco meets Spain in style. The views reminded me of the Hollywood Hills/Malibu vibes.

We visited:

Hercules Cave
Cap Spartel
The Kasbah

This is a great day trip from Rabat, and if you have more time, you must check out Chefchaouen (the blue city).

Dinner that night? Takeout Thai from Thaitaam Thai — shockingly authentic and hit the spot.

✈️ Day 9: Final Reflections

This trip changed my perspective on Morocco.
I came in curious, cautious, and excited — I left feeling safe, empowered, and inspired.

🧳 Quick Tips Before You Go:

Bring cash (exchange some at the airport, more in the city)
Always negotiate in the markets — start at 50-60% of the asking price
Book hammams, dinners, and activities in advance
Best souvenirs: Argan oil, ceramics, scarves, tea, black soap
Best travel time: Late March to early May or September to early November

🧠 Myths Busted:

“It’s not safe for women.” I felt safe with awareness and a local guide.
“You have to cover up.” Respectful, flowy clothes are great — a headscarf is not mandatory.
“Moroccan men are aggressive.” Yes, some situations are pushy — stay assertive, don’t engage, and move on. Boundaries work.

🌟 Final Thoughts:

Would I go back?
100%. Especially now that I know what to expect — and how much Morocco has to offer.

Thinking of planning your own group or solo trip?
Check out Afritrip Morocco and use my name “Nancy” for 10% off your custom itinerary.
I personally thought having a local guide and driver the entire trip was very helpful and made us feel more safe and secured (especially for first-timers). So while you could explore on your own, I recommend hiring one!

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💌 Want the honest, behind-the-scenes version of this trip?
I’m telling all over on Substack: Get Paid and Go
🎥 And for visuals, head to @fancynancista on IG!

I hope you enjoy your trip and find this helpful! Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions!

Xo,
Nancy