Morocco, 8 days: Marrakech + Casablanca + Agadir

About the destination: Marrakech, often called the “Red City” for its terracotta-hued walls and buildings, is a vibrant gateway to Morocco that blends ancient traditions with modern energy. At its heart lies the medina, a maze of narrow alleys, riads with hidden courtyards, and lively souks where the scent of spices, leather, and incense fills the air. The city’s rhythmic pulse is most palpable in Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, where street performers, storytellers, and food stalls take over every evening, turning the space into an open-air theater of Moroccan life. History and architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. The Koutoubia Mosque, with its iconic minaret, is a landmark visible from many corners of the city. Nearby, the Bahia Palace showcases intricate stucco work, painted ceilings, and tranquil gardens that hint at Marrakech’s royal past. The Saadian Tombs, rediscovered in the early 20th century after being sealed for centuries, offer a glimpse into the opulence of the Saadian dynasty through elaborately decorated burial chambers. Marrakech also has a softer, more serene side. The Majorelle Garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, is a lush botanical retreat with cobalt-blue buildings, exotic plants, and shaded paths that provide a peaceful escape from the bustle of the medina. Outside the city, the landscapes shift quickly: within a short drive you can ride camels in the palm groves of the Palmeraie, visit Berber villages in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, or plan day trips to waterfalls and desert-like plains. For travelers, Marrakech offers a rich sensory experience and a variety of stays, from budget hostels to luxury riads with rooftop terraces overlooking the city’s rooftops and minarets. The local cuisine—tagines, couscous, pastilla, and freshly squeezed orange juice—adds another layer to the journey, best enjoyed in small neighborhood eateries or on rooftop restaurants at sunset. Whether you come for shopping, history, photography, or simply to wander and get lost, Marrakech promises an immersive introduction to the colors and culture of Morocco.

About the destination: Situated on the Atlantic coast, Casablanca is the biggest city and the economic hub of Morocco. Casablanca is a modern city with bustling boulevards and numerous street cafes that give it a distinctly European feel. Casablanca is a mix of both tradition and modernity. Visitors will encounter traditional buildings of Moorish, Roman, Jewish, Spanish and French influence alongside the new modern skyscrapers. While the city is quite modern by Moroccan standards, there are many historical sites and striking white colonial architecture. The oldest part of the city, the medina, is relatively small compared to other medinas in Morocco, but still worth a wander around its narrow lanes. Near the Medina you'll find the City Hall, which boasts beautifully carved roofs. Casablanca's main attraction is the King Hassan II Mosque. Located in a stunning setting on the Atlantic Coast, it's the largest mosque in Morocco and the third largest in the world, with the tallest minaret in the world. A visit to Casablanca is a must for many travellers who come to Morocco. Oriental yet modern, Casablanca is a city of many faces.

About the destination: Certainly! Here’s an English (Ireland) translation, with subtle adjustments for Irish English style, vocabulary, and tone: --- Just three hours from the capitals of Europe, you’ll find a paradise of fine golden sands and glorious sunshine for more than 300 days a year, with an endless beach stretching along the ocean’s edge. Known as the Miami of Morocco, this destination boasts a wealth of mid- to high-end accommodation and a huge range of outdoor activities. You can spend your days golfing, sailing, playing tennis, horse riding, or surfing—including windsurfing and kite surfing. Agadir is also home to plenty of international restaurants. Everything you need for a brilliant seaside holiday.