Morocco: Imperial Cities

Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to your hotel. Gather tonight for a special welcome reception and dinner at a local restaurant.

Explore the towering Hassan II Mosque, a wildly intricate building that holds 25,000 worshipers. Soaring above the ocean, its minaret stands as the tallest religious structure in the world. Proceed to a winery outside Meknes for lunch at a restaurant offering views of the region's sunbathed vineyards and olive groves. Next, head to the city of Meknes. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco's imperial cities, it was built in the 17th century by the powerful sultan Moulay Ismail. Continue to Fez, arriving at day’s end at your boutique hotel set on a scenic hilltop.

Step back in time into remarkably untouched Fez el-Bali (“Old Fez”), the cultural heart of Morocco. Wander among the 9,000 lanes, alleys and souks that shape its old quarter, where locals conduct their day-to-day business. Later, discover Fez el-Jadid (“New Fez”), home to the mellah, the old Jewish quarter, with its wrought iron-decorated windows and carved wood balconies. Tonight, dine at a traditional Moroccan riad (mansion with interior garden) with a female professor who leads a fascinating discussion about the role of women in modern Morocco.

After breakfast, drive to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Morocco’s largest and most impressive Roman ruins, with excellently preserved mosaics. Continue to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, and view the 12th-century Moorish Hassan Tower. Visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum, dedicated to the founder of modern Morocco, and visit Oudayas Kasbah; its gate is considered among the most beautiful in the Moorish world.

Drive to Marrakech, arriving in the afternoon. Considered the “Pearl of the South,” Marrakech was once the capital of an empire that stretched from Spain to Senegal, and is known as the “Red City” for the distinctive hues of its brick buildings.

Discover Marrakech’s exotic medina, the old walled section of the city. Explore the Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts), a former palace. Continue to El Badi Palace and view the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque, a landmark Islamic religious structure in Marrakech. Stroll through Djemaa el-Fna square, where fire-eaters, mime artists and street musicians perform.

Today, choose to remain in Marrakech or enjoy a full-day excursion to the High Atlas Mountains. Admire majestic views of snow-capped peaks as you hike to a picturesque village and spend time with local Berbers in their homes. Learn about daily life while savoring traditional Berber bread and mint tea. Afterward, have lunch before returning to Marrakech. Your farewell dinner tonight is held at a luxurious former palace.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.