Ryads of Morocco

(10 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Fez, Marrakesh, Essaouira

On this tour, visit three of Morocco's most interesting cities, and stay at deluxe ryads (traditional guesthouses) in the center of each town.

Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to Fez, the intellectual and religious heart of Morocco, and stay in a luxury ryad in the heart of the medina. During private touring, explore Fez el-Bali ("Old Fez") and its medieval medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site crammed with narrow streets, tiny squares and busy workshops. See centuries-old mosques and universities, as well as the open-air tanneries. If desired, also visit studios where artisans create traditional carpets, copperware, leatherwork, ceramics and zellij tilework. Also tour Fez el-Djedid ("New Fez") to see the Royal Palace and explore the mellah, the largest Jewish quarter in Morocco. If desired, spend a day touring major Roman ruins at Volubilis and the former imperial capital of Meknes, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Next, visit Rabat, Morocco's sophisticated seaside capital. Stroll through the beautiful Andalusian Gardens, and visit the landmark Kasbah of the Udayas, which perches on a hill above a scenic estuary. Also explore a medieval necropolis, see French colonial architecture, and discover the city's best museums and galleries.

Next, drive to Marrakesh, a beautiful city of pink buildings, bustling souks (markets), and upscale shops and restaurants. During private touring, explore exquisite Moorish gardens and architectural highlights such as Jardin Majorelle, the Saadian Tombs and the Bahia Palace. See important historic monuments and districts, including the Jewish quarter, Koutoubia Mosque, and Ali ben Youssef Mosque and Madrassa. Also visit museums such as Dar Si Said Museum of Moroccan Arts, the Palmeraie Museum and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Take an insider tour of the massive souks where shops offer local products such as Berber carpets, lanterns, trays, tilework, argan oil, and Moroccan slippers. Also visit the spice souks, which are stocked with locally harvested saffron, cumin and other ingredients. If desired, visit the best boutiques and galleries in Gueliz and other parts of Marrakesh. There will also be time to enjoy your luxurious ryad, one of the most exclusive in Morocco. One day, take a private excursion to the Atlas Mountains to visit local villages and a Berber market.

Continue to Essaouira, a whitewashed port on the Atlantic coast and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During private touring, learn about the town's long and diverse history of trade, and explore its impressive fortifications and medina (old town). Perhaps also sample fresh seafood and browse galleries specializing in local art and handicrafts.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

• Private touring with your own personal guides and drivers
• Preferred rooms in the very best luxury hotels
• Firsthand, sophisticated destination knowledge and recommendations from our travel specialists
• Itineraries that are customized according to your interests and schedule
• Artisans of Leisure upgrades and amenities
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