Morocco holidays

Found in the northwest corner of Africa, Morocco holidays are a great choice for winter sun-seekers with mild temperatures all year round, particularly in southern resorts like Agadir and Essaouira.

Just over 3 hours from the UK, it’s perfect for short haul sunshine that’s right on your doorstep. Plus, it's got both beach and city breaks covered with its fantastic mix of coastal and urban stays - from Marrakech and its bustling medinas filled with traditional souks to Agadir and its long stretches of Atlantic-facing sands. 

This page helps you compare where to stay, when to go, which resort suits your holiday style as well as the hotels to look at next.

Morocco holidays at a glance:

  • Best for: Families, couples, solo travellers, All Inclusive stays, and culture-filled city breaks
  • Flight time: Around 3 - 4 hours from the UK
  • Best months: March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) for mild temperatures and great value
  • Top places: Marrakech, Agadir, Essaouira, Fes, Casablanca and Taghazout

 

Morocco holiday types 

Beach holidays in Morocco

From surfing hotspots with big Atlantic waves to lengthy stretches of sand filled with amenities, Morocco’s coast has everything you could possibly need for a relaxing beach break. 

Best for: Families, couples and surfers looking for year-round beach weather. Tip: Agadir is a top choice for families with its safe, wide beachfront. 

Top areas:

Agadir: Pram-friendly promenade filled with beach amenities and safe waters for little swimmers.
Essaouira: Sunset hangout, windy conditions ideal for kite & wind surfing, and a buzzing boardwalk
Taghazout: Boho vibes, trendy beach cafes and waves made for surfing

Morocco All Inclusive holidays

There’s plenty of Morocco All Inclusive holidays to choose from, whether you want water park fun for the family, adult-only luxury, beachfront access, or somewhere that’s right by the city.

Best for: Families, couples and budget-conscious holidaymakers with fantastic winter deals on 4 & 5-star hotels.

Top areas:

Marrakech: From spa retreats to water park fun, Marrakech’s All Inclusive hotels are a great base for exploring with the Medina and Atlas Mountains within easy reach. 
Agadir: The beach is at the centre here with hotels set on its golden sands, and others just a short stroll away from it.

Morocco family holidays

Morocco is a great choice for a family holiday! Kids will love the all-singing, all-dancing hotels, cultural fun, desert tours and beaches. 

Best for: Families seeking wallet-friendly winter sun. 

Top areas:

Marrakech: Villa-style riads or large All Inclusives - Marrakech is a great base for families who want a mix of laid-back pool days and cultural adventures. 

Agadir: A beautiful six-mile beach and fantastic choice of All Inclusive hotels makes Agadir holidays a big-hit with families. 

Essaouira: Easy-going days by the coast, a car-free Medina and pram-friendly promenade. 
Morocco holidays for couples.

Culture, relaxation - or a bit of both? Morocco suits couples whatever your holiday style. 

Best for: Great for couples who want luxury, culture and romance all rolled into one trip. 

Top areas:

Fes: Fancy hotels with hammams perfect for couples’ pamper sessions, a stunning old Medina and candlelit dinners in cosy courtyards.

Casablanca: A must-visit for fans of romantic cinema, upscale dinner spots, amazing architecture (Gothic & Art Deco) and a striking mosque. 

Marrakech: Beautiful intimate settings, made even more romantic by the Arabic lighting, exotic gardens perfect for scenic strolls, private riads made for two, and sunset trips to the desert.

Essaouira: Casual beach days and magical sunsets, rooftop restaurants serving fresh seafood and a laid-back Medina. 

Winter sun holidays in Morocco

With mild winter temperatures lasting well into February (16 to 20°C) and 300 days of sun a year - Morocco ticks all the boxes for winter warmth that’s close to home. 

Best for: Short haul winter sun and budget conscious holidaymakers.

Top areas:

Agadir: If you want guaranteed beach days, Agadir’s position on the south coast is ideal with winter temperatures often reaching 25°C. 

Taghazout: A great choice for couples with its boutique style resorts and laid-back days along the coast. Expect winter temperatures to hit 22°C.

Marrakech: Great for a sun-filled city escape with temperatures peaking at 22°C. - perfect for sightseeing. Tip: if you book a hotel with a pool in the winter, make sure it’s heated. 

Cheap and shoulder-season Morocco holidays

Morocco has some fantastic out-of-season deals, plus its short flight time means you can book cheap weekend breaks too. 

Best for: Budget conscious, flexible holidaymakers (couples & solo), and culture lovers.

Top areas:

Marrakech: Great choice of hotels and flights - often with big discounts, tons to do if the weather doesn’t go as planned, attractions open as normal. 

Agadir: Weather is great for winter beach days, wallet-friendly All Inclusive deals and hotels with heated pools.

Fes: A cheaper and less crowded version of Marrakech, lots of cultural must-sees and affordable riads.
 

5 reasons to choose Morocco for your next holiday

  1. Short flight time from the UK – it takes around three to four hours to fly to the main airports, so you don’t have to travel long haul in search of some winter sun.
  2. A great mix of holidays – From year-round warm weather, to amazing city breaks, and stunning All Inclusive beach resorts - it appeals to a wide range of holidaymakers.
  3. Year-round hotspot – You can chase the sun along its coastal resorts during winter, or you can hit its cities in spring and autumn where you’ll be able to enjoy more comfortable sightseeing temperatures.
  4. Distinct regions – Each region promises something different - go from the stunning Atlantic Coast in Agadir-Taghazout and Essaouira-Mogador to the culture-rich Medinas of Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca.
  5. Great package holiday choice – customers typically find what they want quickly without having to sift through tons of hotels. 

Where to stay in Morocco

Marrakech

  • Best for: first-timers, couples, culture-rich adventures, spa breaks and riad stays
  • What it’s known for: medinas, souks, palaces, gardens, hammams
  • Holiday style: A cultural city break perfect for adults and couples who want to dive into the bustle of the souks, savour local flavours and indulge in traditional spa treatments.

 

Agadir

  • Best for: beach holidays, families, winter sun, easy All Inclusive stays
  • What it’s known for: six-mile beach, busy promenade, within easy reach of Taghazout (small fishing village)
  • Holiday style: Beach package holiday for those who want to fly and flop with tons of hotels right by the Atlantic. From jet-skiing to surfing -  there’s also plenty of opportunities to keep active for watersports fans.

 

Essaouira

  • Best for: couples, relaxed coastal stays, wind and watersports, short breaks
  • What it’s known for: Boho vibes, artsy scene, whitewashed medina, fishing port serving fresh seafood
  • Holiday style: Slow beach days where you can do as little or as much as you like with cafes and rooftop restaurants at your fingertips. Hotels are more boutique than big - ideal for couples who want to kick-back in their own private space.

 

Fes

  • Best for: culture-rich city trips, return visitors, history-crammed itineraries
  • What it’s known for: medina, historic learning centre (oldest in the world), traditional craftsmanship
  • Holiday style: Short breaks packed with cultural experiences. Get ready to fully immerse yourself in the local way of life, from delving into its vast history to watching craftsmen make handmade goods and taking in the aromas of its age-old Medina.

 

Casablanca

  • Best for: short sightseeing break with a focus on architecture, usually as part of a multi-stop holiday.
  • What it’s known for: The striking Hassan II Mosque (open to non-Muslim visitors), modern trade city with an urban beach feel. 
  • Holiday style: For lovers of architecture who want to experience one of Morocco’s most modern cities. Trips to Casablanca are usually booked as part of a multi-stop break with holidaymakers spending a few days soaking up the city’s sights before seeing what the rest of the country has to offer.

 

Best hotels 

Best All Inclusive hotels in Morocco

Sol Oasis Marrakech - All Inclusive
Be Live Experience Marrakech Palmeraie - All Inclusive

Best Marrakech hotels

Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial & Spa
Riad Africa

Best Agadir hotels

Valeria Jardins D'Agadir Resort
AGADIR BEACH CLUB HOTEL

Best luxury hotels

Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech
Sofitel Agadir Royal Bay Resort
Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa Sea & Spa - MGallery Collection

Best family-friendly Morocco hotels

Be Live Experience Marrakech Palmeraie - All Inclusive
Amadil Ocean Club
Allegro Agadir

 

Who Morocco holidays are best for?

  • Couples who want a mix of culture and relaxing resort time
  • Families who favour beach resorts and winter sun
  • First-timers who want to experience North Africa with a short haul package holiday
  • Holidaymakers choosing between Marrakech with its vibrant city atmosphere or Agadir’s slow-paced beach days. 

 

Marrakech vs Agadir

Marrakech: best for culture, city vibes, riads, adults/couples and shorter breaks
Agadir: best for beach time, easy All Inclusive options, families and winter sun.

Our Morocco holidays guide was last revised and updated in April 2026.

More travel guides

Ready to find out more? Check out our other Morocco holiday guides: Agadir | Marrakech

Map of Morocco

world_map
38 ℃

Expect glorious summer highs and year-round sunshine, plus excellent winter skiing weather in the Atlas Mountains.

View live forecast

4 hours
Agadir Al-Massira Airport (AGA) or Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK).

Morocco is best for...

Explorers: Expect ancient quarters filled with Moorish architecture, fascinating medinas and glorious scenery, so make sure you’ve got lots of space on your camera. 

Beach fans: Agadir and Essaouira are ideal year-round beach destinations. Even in winter the daytime high is around the 20°C mark. In summer temperatures are normally in the high 20s, but on rare occasions can top 40°C. Add to that an average of just two to three wet days between May and September. Sunseeker heaven!

Shopaholics: Shopping in Morocco’s maze-like souks is a mesmerising experience. They’re the perfect places to pick up souvenirs, and you’ll have the chance to put your haggling skills to the test here.

Fast facts for Morocco

Language: Moroccan Arabic, Berber and French are the main languages. English is spoken in popular locations, but it’s a good idea to download a language app to help you with a few useful phrases.

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

Local time: Morocco uses Daylight Saving Time (GMT+1), except during Ramadan when it uses GMT. This means for just over half the year the time in Morocco is the same as the UK, and for the rest it’s one hour ahead.

Fly to: Marrakech-Menara Airport or Agadir Al-Massira Airport

Flight time from the UK: The flight time to Morocco is 3.5 to 4 hours.

Checking into hotels: In Morocco sexual relations outside of marriage are outlawed. This means some hotels may not allow a man and woman to share a room unless you can prove you’re married.

Tourist information: You can find more information about Morocco holidays from the Moroccan tourism office.

 

 

Getting around Morocco

By bus: Super popular with both locals and travellers, with stations in most towns. Companies like CTM and Supratours offer comfy rides with air conditioning and reclining seats at affordable prices. You can buy tickets on the day, but for longer trips or busy times, it’s smart to book ahead. 

By train: A stylish and scenic way to get around. Run by ONCF, they’re modern, comfortable and great for travelling between major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Tangier. 

By taxi: It's best to use official licenced ‘Petits’ or ‘Grands Taxis’ and make sure to check the driver turns the metre on. Unregulated taxis (including those bookable via mobile apps) may be stopped by the police, who could ask you to leave the vehicle.

Events in Morocco

Fes Festival of World Sacred Music (late May to early June):

Perfect for early summer breaks, this 10-day spiritual spectacle is held at Bab Makina Plaza and is celebrated for its performances and workshops. 

Good to know: Book early if you want to attend as hotels sell out fast.

Essaouira’s Gnaoua & World Music Festival (June): As one of Morocco’s biggest music festivals with national and international musicians hitting its multiple stages. 

Good to know: The festival is free so the streets can get extremely busy.

Marrakech International Film Festival (late November to early December): North Africa’s answer to Cannes Film Festival - it’s the perfect excuse to book a winter city break. Taking place over 10 days, Palais des Congrès is the main venue but there’ll be a number of other screening locations too. 

Good to know: Opening and closing nights tend to be the busiest so make sure you arrive 1 to 2 hours early so you can bag a good spot. 

 

Morocco safety and security

Before you book

  • Check passport validity
  • Check latest FCDO entry advice
  • Decide whether you want a city, beach or mixed itinerary
  • Decide which board basis best suits your budget

What are the passport and visa requirements for Morocco?

  • British citizens can visit without a visa for up to 90 days
  • Passport should be valid for at least 3 months after arrival
  • Passport should be stamped on arrival so you don’t run into any problems
  • For more info, please visit FCDO entry requirements page.

 

Written by: Thomas Cook travel editorial team

Reviewed for travel requirements: [16.4.2026]

Sources: GOV.UK / FCDO, NaTHNaC, Moroccan National Tourist Office

What are the passport and visa requirements for Morocco?

You’ll need a valid passport to travel to Morocco. Passports need to be valid for the full duration of your stay in the country. It’s also recommended that you have at least three months’ validity left on the date you arrive, or you might have issues entering or leaving Morocco.

If you’re a British national with a UK passport, you don’t need a visa to enter Morocco, as long as you’re staying for less than three months. When you arrive in the country, make sure your passport is stamped because you may have issues leaving the country otherwise.

For more information on entry requirements for Morocco, please visit the FCDO website for UK government advice.

Do I need any vaccinations?

It’s advisable to check the latest advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) at least eight weeks before travel.

If you have any prescription medicines, make sure you bring them with you, along with a copy of your prescription.

Should I get travel health insurance?

We recommend you take out comprehensive travel and health insurance before booking holidays to Morocco. Make sure it covers you for overseas medical expenses, such as medical repatriation and legal costs. Be sure to check exactly what’s included in your cover before you decide which insurance to buy. Plus, if you’re planning on doing any activities while you’re away, you’ll need to be covered for those too - especially any extreme sports like diving.

For more information and Morocco travel advice visit the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office website.

Morocco weather

Best time to visit Morocco

Morocco is a great choice if you want to chase the sun right into winter.

March to May (spring) or September to November (autumn) promise comfortable temperatures  and reasonably priced deals.

Morocco in summer 

Temperatures are at their highest during the summer (June to August) with days often too hot for sightseeing or hiking in the Atlas Mountains. Known to hit 40°C and higher, the heat will be more intense in Morocco’s inland resorts, while the coast will feel cooler thanks to the Atlantic breeze.

Morocco in winter

With temperatures usually hovering around 20°C inland, Morocco winter sun holidays are comfortable enough for ticking off the sights. The weather is still mild along the coast but temperatures may feel a little cooler when you factor in those coastal breezes. Nights can feel a little chilly so it’s best to pack a light jacket. Want to wander into the Sahara desert? Winter’s the best time to do it with plenty of opportunity to see a sky filled with stars. Low humidity means clearer skies ideal for nights on the dunes. 

Peak vs shoulder season

Peak 

  • Hot but big crowds
  • Too warm for sightseeing unless you go in the morning or late at night
  • Great for budget-friendly beach breaks

 

Shoulder season

  • Slower pace in its cities
  • Less crowds but temperatures lower
  • Comfortable temperatures for coastal, city, desert and hiking adventures.

 

What should I pack?

It’s best to check the temperature before you pack for Morocco, so you know exactly what kind of clothing you’ll need. Sun cream is absolutely essential to protect yourself from the strong rays.

Bring lightweight, breathable clothing that’s modest - long trousers or skirts and tops with sleeves are best, especially for visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women may also want a scarf for covering their head at mosques.

 

More hotels in Morocco

Popular Morocco holiday resorts

Places similar to Morocco to visit

FAQs

FAQs

1. What is the currency used in Morocco?

The currency used in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). However, as a closed currency, you won’t be able to get hold of any before you travel. Once you arrive in Morocco you can exchange your pounds easily at a local bank or bureau de change. You will also find ATMs dotted around Morocco’s major cities should you wish to withdraw Dirhams using your card.

2. Is Morocco a safe country to visit?

Yes, Morocco is a safe country to visit. But we always advise that you stay vigilant with petty crimes such as pickpockets and scammers more likely to target tourists. 

3. What should I wear in Morocco?

If you’re exploring its cities and sights, we advise wearing light, comfortable clothing that covers your knees and shoulders, particularly if you’re a woman. This way you’re prepared should you wish to visit one of the country’s religious buildings, which have a much stricter dress code.

Hitting Morocco’s beach resorts? You can still bring your swimsuit! That’s right, it’s totally acceptable to wear a bather, bikini or swim shorts when you’re by the coast  - just remember to take a cover up for when you’re walking around.

4. Is it cheap to travel to Morocco?

Yes, if you’re travelling on a budget, you can find cheap holidays to Morocco. There are many affordable places to stay, cheap and delicious food, and low-cost ways to get around. It's easy to travel without spending a lot of money. 

 

5. What are the most popular tourist attractions in Morocco?

Morocco is full of amazing sights but there’s some things you can’t leave without seeing. Here’s a few of the country’s most popular tourist attractions:

  1. Explore Marrakech: Most famous for its colourful souks filled with traditional trinkets, haggling is all part of the fun here. Don’t miss a chance to explore its most famous market, Jemaa el-Fna, which comes alive as soon as the sun sets. Soak up its unique atmosphere with storytellers, food stalls and henna art all adding to its charm.
  2. Hike the Atlas Mountains: This beautiful mountain range is perfect for a day trip from Marrackech. Discover beautiful valleys, waterfalls and even Berber villages as you get back to nature.
  3. Hit Agadir’s beaches: Known for its golden stretches, Agadir is Morocco’s main beach resort with hotels ideally placed overlooking the sand. Don’t forget to sample the watersport fun while you’re here, from jet skis to surf lessons. 
  4. Visit Hassan II Mosque: This amazing religious building is found in Casablanca and is not only the largest functioning mosque in Morocco, but the 7th largest in the world. Take a guided tour so you can admire its intricate tile work, gilded ceilings and marble floors.
  5. Wander through Jardin Majorelle: Recognised for its stunning blue villa surrounded by towering cacti, there’s no wonder why this is one of Morocco’s most-visited attractions. Not to mention its fashion credentials as the former home of the iconic designer Yves Saint Laurent. Get lost in its 2.5 acres of gardens before exploring its duo of museums - Berber Museum and Musée Yves Saint Laurent.

6. When is the best time to visit Morocco?

The best time to visit Morocco is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring cities, the desert or the coast. These seasons are ideal for package holidays to Morocco, offering great value, fewer crowds, and more comfortable travel conditions than the hot summer. 

 

7. How many days do you need in Morocco?

The duration you book really depends on what it is you want from your trip. If you want a cultural city break, then 3 or 4 nights will be more than enough. If you prefer to pair a city trip with an adventure into the Atlas Mountains or the Sahara desert, a week may suit you better. For those who want to experience Morocco to its fullest and hop from the city to the coast with some scenic trips in between may opt for a two-week stay.

 

8. What entry requirements do UK travellers need for Morocco?

Morocco’s entry requirements for UK travellers are straightforward. All you need is at least 3 months validity on your passport (from date of entry).

9. Is Morocco good for All Inclusive holidays?

Yes, Morocco is a great pick for All Inclusive holidays with its fantastic choice of all-in hotels, particularly in Agadir. You’ll also find many All Inclusive escapes deals for less than you would pay in popular European resorts like Spain, Greece and Turkey. The year-round warm climate means you can grab All Inclusive bargains in the winter too. 

 

10. Are there extra costs I need to know about for my trip to Morocco?

Yes, there are a few things you should factor into your budget before you jet off. These include:

Tourist Tax: This applies to all tourists and costs around  £1 - £4 per person, per night.
• Tipping: Expect to tip around 5 to 15% in most restaurants, bars and cafes.
Data: Roaming charges can be high so make sure you switch off your data roaming when you don’t have access to Wi-Fi.

11. What is usually included in a Morocco package holiday?

Morocco package holidays vary depending who you book with, but as standard they typically cover the basics such as accommodation and return flights with the option to add extras including:

• Airport to hotel transfers
• Luggage
• Meals and drinks (board basis dependant)
• Excursions
• Travel insurance (make sure this covers extreme sports)

12. Which part of Morocco is best for families?

Agadir is a fantastic choice for  Morocco family holidays with its shallow calm bay, fantastic choice of resort-style All Inclusive hotels and pram-friendly promenade. It’s also a lot more laid-back compared to Morocco’s bustling cities, which is great if you want a stress-free holiday with your little ones.

13. Which part of Morocco is best for couples?

Marrakech is a top pick for stylish couples holidays, whether you want to stay for a week or explore it over a weekend. From beautiful riads with private courtyards and candlelit dinners on cosy rooftops to traditional hammam treatments and desert stargazing trips.

14. Is Morocco a good choice for winter sun?

Yes, Morocco is a fantastic choice for winter sun. Not only is it a short hop from the UK, but you can enjoy spring-like temperatures well into winter. You’ve also got a great choice of resorts whether you want to immerse yourself in the culture or prefer to hit the coast for some out-of-season sunbathing.

 

15. Is Morocco suitable for first-time travellers?

Yes, Morocco is great for first-time travellers thanks to its short flight time, diverse landscape, from culture-crammed cities to relaxing beach escapes, all within easy reach of the mountains and desert, and fantastic year-round climate.

Popular Morocco destinations