Fez – The loop works in either direction. Fly into Casablanca or Rabat, finish in Marrakech or back in Casablanca, and keep two nights in each major stop so your days feel balanced.
You will take the train for city hops and hire a driver for the Fez–Sahara–Marrakech stretch. Book Riads near main gates so luggage moves are easy. Keep one flexible day for weather or a slow morning.
Day one: Arrive in Casablanca, connect to Rabat
Land in Casablanca and ride the train about one hour to Rabat. Walk the Oudaya Kasbah at sunset and sleep early. It sets up a smooth transfer to Fez on Day two.
Days two and three: Rabat to Fez
Catch a morning train to Fez. Spend two nights to learn the medina in sections. Start at Bab Bou Jeloud, then Bou Inania Madrasa, the Nejjarine Museum, Seffarine coppersmiths, and a tannery overlook. Close Day three at the Merenid Tombs for a citywide view.
Day four: Fez to the Sahara (Merzouga)
Leave after breakfast with a private driver. The road crosses cedar forests and the Ziz Valley before reaching the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Aim to arrive before sunset and settle into a desert camp.
Day five: Desert day
Wake for sunrise, then slow down. Short options include a village visit, a gentle 4×4 loop, or tea on the dunes. Rest in the afternoon and keep the evening simple.
Day six: Merzouga to Skoura or Ouarzazate
Drive west through Todra or Dades Gorges. Overnight in an oasis guesthouse around Skoura or in Ouarzazate. You get gardens, kasbah walls, and soft light for photos.
Day seven: To Marrakech over the High Atlas
Cross the Tizi n’Tichka pass and reach Marrakech in the afternoon. Check into a riad and take a light walk through the Koutoubia area and Jemaa el-Fna. Save your main souk time for tomorrow when you have fresh energy.
Days eight and nine: Marrakech
Give one day to Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, the Secret Garden, and the souks. Use the other day for a hammam, a cooking class, or a modern breather in Gueliz. If you want sea air, swap Day nine for an Essaouira day trip.
Day ten: Depart
Ride the train to Casablanca for your flight or depart directly from Marrakech if your ticket allows. Keep the morning open in case of traffic or extra security lines.
Swap-ins and add-ons
Chefchaouen fits between Rabat and Fez if you add a night and don’t mind longer transfers. Essaouira fits after Marrakech as a one-night coast break. If you only have seven days, drop Rabat and keep Fez, the desert, and Marrakech.
Practical tips
Choose riads near easy gates. In Fez that means Bab Bou Jeloud or Batha. In Marrakech look at Bab Doukkala or Bab Laksour. Ask your riad to meet you at the gate and walk you in.
Book first-class train seats for air-conditioning and reserved places. Keep small bills for tips and quick snacks. Dress modestly, wear good shoes, and carry a light layer for cooler nights in the desert.
Eat where it is busy. For quick lunches, try harira, brochettes, or the day’s tagine. For dinner, reserve a courtyard restaurant or eat at your riad and call it an early night before a transfer day.
When to go
Spring and autumn are the sweet spots. City days feel mild and desert nights are comfortable. Summer is hot in the interior. Winter brings crisp evenings and clear light, which suits city walks and photography.
This itinerary gives you Fez and Marrakech in depth, a real night in the Sahara, and one green valley pause. It leaves room for the unexpected and sends you home ready to plan the next trip north or along the coast.
