Day 1 İstanbul – Casablanca
Meeting 3 hours prior to departure in front of Turkish Airlines counter at the international departure terminal of Istanbul Airport. After baggage and ticket procedures, departure to Casablanca with Turkish Airlines flight TK 617 at 11:50. Arrival in Casablanca at 14:50 local time, then we start our city tour with the vehicle waiting for us at the airport. Casablanca, Morocco’s main port and famous for the 1942 Hollywood film named after the city, is also the most populous city. While strolling through the city streets, you will see influences from Islamic, French, and Berber cultures reflecting its rich cultural history. Places to see include the heart of Casablanca, Mohammed V Square; the United Nations Square, where the past and present of Morocco blend seamlessly; Hassan II Mosque (exterior), which has the second-longest minaret in the world; Old Medina; the Hobus district with open-air markets; Ain Diab and Corniche along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. After the tour, transfer to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2 Casablanca – Marrakech
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Marrakech. Upon arrival in Marrakech, begin exploring Morocco’s "Red City," so called because of its red walls and known as the "City of the Koutoubia" due to its iconic minaret. Our city tour includes Bahia Palace, which offers a glimpse into aristocratic life from the 19th century; Koutoubia Minaret, a symbol of the city; Majorelle Gardens featuring a collection of plants from around the world; and the bustling Djemaa El Fna square, known as the “Square of Markets and Miracles.” After the tour, transfer to the hotel with some free time. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 Marrakech – Essaouira – Marrakech
After breakfast at the hotel, join the UNESCO World Heritage Site tour of beautiful Essaouira. Located on the Atlantic coast and historically a city of civilizations, Essaouira is known for its medina surrounded by white city walls, narrow streets, and traditional markets. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a tranquil seaside harbor that has attracted artists like Cat Stevens, Jimi Hendrix, and Orson Welles, making it a cultural and artistic hub. It also served as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Sites include the city walls and Essaouira Castle, the fishing port with fresh seafood market, and the vibrant Medina. While exploring Essaouira, you will experience traditional Moroccan architecture, shop at local artisans’ stalls, and enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere. After the tour, return to Marrakech for free time. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 Marrakech – Film Studios – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate
After breakfast, depart for Ouarzazate, stopping first at the Film Studios and Ait Benhaddou on the way. The film studios have hosted movies like The Mummy, Gladiator, Alexander, and the TV hit Game of Thrones. Then head to the historic village of Ait Benhaddou, built along the old caravan route in the Atlas Mountains, characterized by high mud brick walls, towers, and narrow streets that give a sense of traveling back in time. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, especially stunning at sunset with its red-hued structures, it provides incredible photo opportunities. Finally, arrive in Ouarzazate, known for hosting many Hollywood films and celebrities, and free time is provided. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 5 Ouarzazate – Sahara Desert (Merzouga)
After breakfast, begin the journey to the Sahara Desert. En route, stop at the Todra Gorge and the Valley of Roses (M’gouna). Continue to Merzouga, located in the desert, and transfer to your desert hotel. After settling into your rooms, enjoy the desert scenery. Don’t forget to photograph the night sky and sunrise in the desert. Accommodation is in a desert camp.
Day 6 Sahara Desert (Merzouga) – Ifrane – Fes
After breakfast, travel from the desert to Ifrane, a city at 1700 meters altitude known as the "Switzerland of Morocco" due to its clean air, broad streets, and mountain lodge-style architecture. Proceed to Fez, named after the city itself, which was founded along the Fez River and surrounded by walls. Often called the "Makkah of the West," Fez’s medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest and oldest pedestrian zones. The old city tour includes visits to the unique Islamic architecture of Bou Inania and Al Attarine Madrasas, the Andalusian Mosque, the historic University of Al Quaraouiyine, Nejjarine Square, and the souks. Leather tanneries, still using traditional techniques, are also part of the visit. After the city tour, transfer to the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 7 Fes – Chefchaouen (The Blue City) – Meknes – Rabat – Casablanca
After breakfast at the hotel, join the tour of the “Magnificent Blue City” of Chefchaouen, located in the Rif Mountains. Known for its blue-painted buildings and alleys, the city exudes a unique atmosphere. Explore the winding streets, local crafts, and enjoy the scenic views. Then head to Meknes, a historic city that has served as a trade and cultural crossroads since antiquity. Highlights include Bab Mansour, the city gate with Mamluk architecture; the Agdal Basin built by Sultan Moulay Ismail; Lhdim Square; and the Royal Palace (Dar El Makhzen). Afterward, proceed to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. A panoramic city tour includes Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V—dedicated to the ancestral-grandfather of the current king and a symbol of independence—and the Royal Palace. Finally, transfer to Casablanca for overnight and dinner at the hotel.
Day 8 Casablanca – Istanbul
After breakfast and checkout, free time until transfer to the airport. Then, take Turkish Airlines flight TK 618 at 16:45 returning to Istanbul. Arrive at 23:25 local time, ending our tour.