9-Day Classic Morocco Family Travel Itinerary
Morocco is a sensory wonderland that, contrary to popular belief, can be exceptionally family-friendly. This 9-day journey follows the 'Classic Route' but adapts it for those traveling with little ones, ensuring travel times are manageable and destinations are accessible for strollers and tired legs alike.
From the blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen to the vibrant gardens of Marrakech, we focus on high-quality intercity transport via Morocco's efficient rail network and private transfers, allowing your family to soak in the culture without the stress of navigating complex logistics.
Day 1: Arrival & Coastal Air in Casablanca
Arrival at Mohammed V International Airport
After clearing customs, take a pre-booked transfer to your hotel. This is the smoothest way to start your trip with kids and luggage.
Lunch at La Corniche
Enjoy a relaxed lunch by the Atlantic Ocean. The promenade is wide, paved, and perfect for strollers, offering plenty of sea breeze to help with jet lag.
Hassan II Mosque (Exterior)
Marvel at one of the world’s largest mosques. The vast courtyard is flat and safe for children to run around while you admire the intricate tile work.
Dinner at Rick's Café
A themed restaurant inspired by the movie 'Casablanca'. It’s family-friendly during early dinner hours and offers a comfortable, air-conditioned environment.
Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat - The Imperial Capital
Train to Rabat
The journey takes just over an hour on the clean and modern Al Boraq or Atlas trains. Kids will enjoy the changing landscape from the comfort of their seats.
Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V
This landmark is located in a large, open square. The lack of stairs makes it highly accessible for families with strollers.
Kasbah of the Udayas
Walk through the blue and white streets of this ancient fortress. The main paths are relatively wide and lead to a beautiful garden overlooking the river.
Andalusian Gardens
Located within the Kasbah, these gardens are a quiet sanctuary. It is an ideal spot for kids to explore nature in a contained, safe environment.
Day 3: Rabat to Chefchaouen - Into the Blue
Private Transfer to Chefchaouen
While buses exist, a private car is recommended for families. It allows for flexible snack breaks and bathroom stops during the 4-hour drive north.
Lunch at Plaza Uta el-Hammam
The main square of the Blue City is car-free and lined with cafes. You can watch the world go by while the children enjoy the open space.
Exploring the Blue Medinas
Chefchaouen's medina is much calmer than Fes or Marrakech. Note that while beautiful, some side streets have steps; stick to the main thoroughfares for strollers.
Traditional Tagine Dinner
Try a mild lemon and chicken tagine, which is often a hit with children due to its familiar flavors and soft texture.
Day 4: Chefchaouen - Nature and Relaxation
Ras El Maa Waterfall
A short walk from the medina, this spring is where locals wash clothes. It's a refreshing spot for kids to see the running water and mountain views.
Chefchaouen Ethnographic Museum
Located in the Kasbah, this small museum offers a glimpse into local history. The surrounding garden is lush and stroller-friendly.
Spanish Mosque (Lower Viewpoint)
Instead of the full hike, stop halfway for a stunning view of the blue city. It’s a manageable incline for older children.
Rooftop Relaxation
Most riads have safe rooftops. Spend the evening pointing out the different shades of blue as the sun sets over the mountains.
Day 5: Chefchaouen to Fes - Journey Through History
Travel to Fes
A 3.5-hour drive south brings you to the spiritual heart of Morocco. The scenery changes from mountain peaks to rolling olive groves.
Check-in at a Traditional Riad
Riads are old mansions with central courtyards. They are generally enclosed and quiet, providing a peaceful home base for the family.
Borj Nord Views
Drive up to this fort for a panoramic view of the entire Fes medina. It’s the best way to see the scale of the city without getting lost in the maze just yet.
Fassi Cuisine Dinner
Sample 'Pastilla'—a sweet and savory pie that many kids find intriguing because of the powdered sugar on top.
Day 6: Fes - The World's Largest Car-Free Medina
Bab Boujloud (The Blue Gate)
Start your medina tour here. This area is bustling but wide enough for a compact stroller. Kids will love seeing the donkey carts passing by.
Al-Attarine Madrasa
A beautiful historic school. The intricate mosaics (zellij) and carved cedar wood are fascinating for adults and visually stimulating for kids.
Chouara Tannery (Balcony View)
Instead of going down into the tannery, watch the process from a leather shop balcony. This keeps the kids away from the strong smells and provides a better view.
Henna Souk
A smaller, quieter market area perfect for picking up natural remedies or having a small, traditional henna design done for the kids.
Day 7: Fes to Marrakech - Across the Heartland
The Long Train Journey
The train from Fes to Marrakech takes roughly 6.5 hours. It’s a great 'down day'—book first-class tickets for extra space and air conditioning.
Arrival in Marrakech
Check into your hotel in the Hivernage or Gueliz districts for wider sidewalks and a more modern, stroller-friendly environment.
Menara Gardens
A massive olive grove and reflection pool. It’s where local families go to relax. There is plenty of space for kids to run around the water.
Quiet Dinner in Gueliz
Enjoy the modern side of Marrakech with a variety of international and Moroccan fusion restaurants that are very accommodating to children.
Day 8: Marrakech - Gardens and Markets
Jardin Majorelle
Arrive early to beat the crowds. The bright blue buildings and exotic plants are captivating. The paths are mostly paved and accessible.
Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Located right next to the gardens, this museum is manageable in size and features beautiful, high-contrast displays that kids find interesting.
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Visit the main square in the late afternoon. It’s a circus of street performers and orange juice stalls. Stay on the edges to avoid the densest crowds with a stroller.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
A 'Caleche' ride around the city walls is a magical way for kids to see the city lights without having to walk through the busy streets.
Day 9: Marrakech - Palatial Goodbyes
Bahia Palace
This 19th-century palace is mostly on one level, making it one of the most accessible historic sites in the city. The courtyards are stunningly peaceful.
Cyber Park (Arsat Moulay Abdeslam)
A beautiful, modern park with free Wi-Fi and safe playgrounds. It's the perfect spot for kids to play before heading to the airport.
Last Minute Souvenir Shopping
Pick up some leather slippers (babouche) or colorful bowls. The Ensemble Artisanal is a fixed-price market that is calm and easy to navigate.
Transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport
A short 15-minute drive from the city center. Marrakech airport is modern and has facilities for families.
Best Time to Visit Morocco
The best time to visit Morocco with a family is during the shoulder seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm rather than scorching, making outdoor exploration and long train journeys much more comfortable for children. Winter can be lovely in Marrakech but chilly in the north and the mountains, while Summer (July and August) can see temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), which is often too intense for little ones.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). While major hotels, upscale restaurants, and some shops in the medina accept credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), Morocco is still very much a cash-based society. You will need cash for small purchases, market stalls, and tipping. Tipping is customary; a small amount (5-10 MAD) for service staff or help with luggage is greatly appreciated. ATMs are widely available in all major cities like Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech.
Getting Around Morocco
Intercity travel in Morocco is surprisingly efficient. The ONCF train network connects Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech with modern, air-conditioned carriages. For families, the high-speed 'Al Boraq' train between Tangier and Casablanca is world-class. In areas where trains don't reach, such as Chefchaouen, CTM buses are reliable and safe, though private transfers are highly recommended for those with young children and strollers to allow for flexibility and comfort.
