Magical Morocco

Holiday Highlights

  • Enjoy scenic landscapes on Morocco's slow trains as we venture north
  • Return to Marrakesh via the new high-speed railway line
  • Half-day guided city/medina tour in all main destinations
  • Day trips to Essaouira and Taza
  • Free time in Marrakesh, Fes, Rabat and Tangier
  • Stay in a traditional Riad (and Spa) in Fes Medina
  • 14 days from £2,450pp
BOOK NOWTailor this tour for independent travel

Tour Dates:
Thursday 24 October to Wednesday 6 November 2024

Fly direct to Marrakesh and travel northwards by rail with stays in Rabat, Fes and Tangier. Enjoy a mixture of guided medina sightseeing, leisure time and optional rail trips. Experience the modern high-speed service on the return journey to Marrakesh before a direct flight back to the UK.

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Fly to Marrakesh

Afternoon departure from London Gatwick on a direct flight to Marrakesh, arriving in the evening for a 4-night stay. We have a transfer to our hotel and dinner is included this evening.

Day 2 – Marrakesh Medina

"Medina" is the North African term for the old walled part of a town and this morning, we have a guided walking tour of Marrakesh's amazing medina. This beguiling labyrinth of alleyways, souks (markets) and workshops has changed little since the Middle Ages. This tour will not only inform us of its history, but also help you to orientate yourself ready for an afternoon of independent exploration. For those who prefer to put their feet up, our hotel has a sun terrace and pool.

Day 3 – Enchanting Essaouira

We escape the hustle and bustle today with a trip by coach to Essaouira, on the shores of the Atlantic. This strikingly picturesque 18th Century fort town boasts an attractive main square, a weather-beaten whitewashed medina, a busy working fishing port and a wide sweeping sandy bay. It has a relaxed and hassle-free atmosphere and is easily explored on foot.

Day 4 – At Leisure

Barter to your heart's content for goods in the souks or seek refuge in the serene Jardin Marjorelle. This botanical garden is two and half acres of eye popping colour, shady lanes, babbling streams and exotic plants. It features a cubist villa and the Berber Museum, which is also well worth a visit. At least one evening in the city should be spent in the main square, Jemaa el Fna. There are stalls selling a wide range of foods, as well as entertainment in the form of snake charmers, story tellers, acrobats and dancers.

Day 5 – Rail to Fes

Transfer to the railway station for a full day's travel by rail today as we head north and then east to Fes. We take the slower trains so that we can sit back and enjoy the scenery en route. Travelling in First Class, carriages are air-conditioned and comfortable. On arrival, we have a transfer to our Riad for the next 3 nights. A Riad is a traditional Moroccan luxury house or palace, with an interior courtyard. Dinner this evening is included.

Day 6 – Fes Medina

Our morning walking tour showcases the alluring charm of the medina, the colourful alleyways and souks and the rich tapestry of life that exists within its ancient walls. Gain access to ancient palaces and Islamic gardens, visit interesting ancient sites, venture into the depths of the tanneries, observe weavers at their loom and discover hidden workshops where generations of artisans ply their individual trades and adapt century old techniques to a modern market.

Day 7 – Medieval Taza by Rail

Taza is just over 2 hours away from Fes by rail. This scenic route has many steep gradients and follows a lake created by the Idriss I Dam. There is time for lunch and to climb up to the walled medina for panoramic views of the Rif to the north and the Middle Atlas to the south. Late afternoon train back to Fes for an evening arrival and a transfer back to the Riad.

Day 8 – Rail to Rabat

Transfer to the railway station for a 3 hour rail journey, via Kenitra on the coast, to Rabat, our home for the next 3 nights. Our hotel here is an easy walk from the railway station.

Day 9 – Rabat City Tour

Morning of guided sightseeing with a knowledgeable local guide. We begin our exploration at the majestic Royal Palace, an architectural masterpiece that exudes grandeur. Stroll along the picturesque Bouregreg River, marvelling at the scenic views and the iconic Kasbah of the Udayas perched on a hilltop. We are immersed in history as we visit the historic Hassan Tower, a magnificent minaret surrounded by ancient ruins.

Day 10 – At Leisure

Enjoy the capital or venture further afield today. Optional trips by public transport include taking the train to Casablanca or the local tramway to Salé.

Day 11 – Rail to Tangier

Board a train to Tangier today, Morocco's most northern city and a lively port. Just 14km away from Europe, Tangier is a melting pot of cultures. On arrival, we transfer to our hotel for the next 2 nights.

Day 12 – Tangier Sights

We discover the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Tangier and take in the iconic sights of this ancient city on a morning tour. Wander through the narrow lanes of the old medina, an atmospheric labyrinth of craftsman’s shops, visit the Kasbah quarter and the famed Grand Socco, a vibrant square where cultures collide and locals gather. There is an opportunity in the afternoon to visit the railway depot.

Day 13 – High-Speed to Marrakesh

Transfer to the station for the new Al Boraq high-speed train to Casablanca and then on to Marrakesh for a 1-night stay.

Day 14 – Flight to London

Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to the airport. Lunchtime flight for a late afternoon arrival into London Gatwick.

Please note that this tour is not suitable for customers with limited or reduced mobility.

Tour Route

Tour route map

Selected Hotels

2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hotel, Marrakech

Riad Dar Bensouda, Fes

Hotel des Oudaias, Rabat

El Minzah, Tangier

Please note - hotels can be subject to change

Price Includes

  • Flights in Economy Class by scheduled airline
  • All rail travel as stated in First Class with reserved seats
  • Accommodation in good quality hotels on a bed and breakfast basis
  • Dinner included on day 1 and day 5
  • Excursions as specified
  • Transfers as specified
  • Services of a tour leader from London and throughout the tour plus local English speaking guides where specified

Price per person

Escorted holiday: £2,450
Single room supplement: £850
Deposit for this holiday: £400

Booking form

Download your tour booking form here.

Download

Why Choose Ffestiniog Travel?

  • UK's first rail tour operator to run an overseas escorted rail holiday in 1974
  • Created for people who love rail holidays and exploring the world’s heritage railways
  • Dedicated rail holiday specialist - great destinations, sightseeing and unparalled railway content
  • Train ticket supplier for worldwide rail operators - we can plan and arrange your rail journey to anywhere
  • Knowledge of the world’s rail routes makes us leading specialists in escorted and Tailor Made rail holidays
  • Over 60% of our existing rail tour travellers return to holiday with us year after year
  • Committed to supporting rail travel and heritage railways around the world
  • Our profits support the continued preservation of the famous Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways
  • Small, dedicated rail holiday travel team offering an award winning personal service

Logos Pharos Response ABTOT AITO Quality Charter

Facebook Twitter YouTube Flickr