In 10 Days

This itinerary is big on culture, bypassing the Saharan side of the Atlas mountain ranges to visit Morocco's present and past imperial capitals. Although Casablanca was never the country's capital, it has become the economic heartbeat of the country and is worth a stop if only to visit Rick's Café and say, "Play it again, Sam."

Days 1 & 2

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech

Marrakech's weather can be energy-sapping hot or surprisingly cold, depending on the time of year. Either way, give yourself time today to get used to the temperature as well as the city's general hustle and bustle. An afternoon ride on the double-decker City Sightseeing bus is a perfect, hassle-free way to get your bearings and absorb the atmosphere, passing the city's iconic sights such as the Koutoubia Mosque and Jemaa el Fna. Later this afternoon, make your way to the incomparable cuisine and entertainment spectacle taking place on Jemaa el Fna.

Day 2: Discover the Medina

Today's the day to "enter the fray" and discover this city's heart and soul. Hire a guide for a morning walking tour, taking in one or two historical sights, a visit to a herboriste and some of the souks, and a stop along the way for a mint tea. You'll no doubt be led to a few shops along the way, so make the most of the situation by taking mental notes of each item's general price and quality, preparing yourself for a return visit should you be seriously interested in something. If you haven't already done so, be sure to head to Jemaa el Fna for the late afternoon and evening show. Perhaps treat yourself tonight with dinner at one of the city's many romantic and ambience-filled restaurants in the medina such as Café Arabe or Narwama, or Le Grand Café de la Poste in Guéliz.

Day 3: Marrakech to Fes

It's a long day's travel, but self-drivers should have time to break the journey with a visit to the Cascades d'Ouzoud. Arriving into Fes after dark can be a little challenging, so ask your accommodation for clear directions.

Days 4 & 5: Fes

Spend the next 2 days wandering around the ancient city of Fes el Bali. Giving yourself this much time allows for both a guided morning walk -- visiting sights such as the Bou Inania Medersa, Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, and Chouwara Tannery -- as well as a look (from the outside) of the spiritual Kairouine Mosque. You'll also have plenty of time to explore on your own. Be sure to dine one night at the Restaurant al Fassi; it's touristy but great fun.

Day 6: Volubilis, Moulay Idriss Zerhoun & Meknes

Visit the ruins in the Roman city of Volubilis early in the morning to beat both the crowds and the heat. Have lunch in the nearby spiritual village of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, watching the pilgrims as they come to visit the shrine of the founding father of Morocco. Arrive in Meknes in the early afternoon and visit another important shrine, that of the country's longest-serving ruler, Moulay Ismail. Stay the night in one of Meknes's few medina riads.

Day 7: Rabat

Rabat has been the capital since the beginning of the French protectorate in 1912. It's a pleasant city cooled by the afternoon Atlantic sea breeze and lacks the general noise and bustle of Morocco's other major cities. This afternoon, visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the burial place of the current king's father and grandfather. On the same site is the imposing 12th-century Hassan Tower, looking out over the mouth of the Oued Bou Regreg. Stroll through the medina and up along rue des Consuls to the charming Kasbah des Oudaïas.

Day 8: Casablanca

South of Rabat is the nation's economic capital, Casablanca. Stroll downtown (largely a French creation) to admire the many Art Deco buildings still standing. An early evening aperitif at Rick's Café is highly recommended. If you don't wish to stay for dinner, head to the restaurant and bar strip opposite the central market.

Days 9 & 10: Back to Marrakech

A new highway has made today's travel faster and more bearable. Arrive back in Marrakech for any last-minute shopping or for another fix of people-watching on Jemaa el Fna. Prepare to leave early to late morning the next day.