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Mention Morocco and Marrakech is often the first place that springs to mind. Its bustling souks, colourful medina and unmistakable energy have made it a firm favourite – but there’s much more to Morocco waiting to be discovered.

From the centuries-old streets of Fes and elegant avenues of Rabat to the Atlantic shores of Essaouira and Agadir, Morocco is a country of wonderfully different experiences. For clients ready to see another side of this fascinating destination, these are six places – and six stays – worth knowing.

FES

4* Barceló Fès Medina

For clients drawn to history and culture, Fes is difficult to beat. One of Morocco’s great imperial cities, its historic medina is a maze of narrow streets, markets, traditional crafts and centuries-old architecture.

Barceló Fès Medina offers a contemporary base from which to explore it all. The 148-room hotel sits in the heart of the city, close to the medina and just five minutes from Fes railway station. An outdoor pool, fitness facilities and a choice of restaurants and bars offer somewhere comfortable to retreat to after a day spent exploring.

RABAT

5* Hotel Rabat – A Member of Barceló Hotel Group

Morocco’s capital can sometimes be overlooked in favour of its better-known neighbours, but that’s precisely part of its appeal. Rabat brings together historic sights, Atlantic coastline and a more relaxed city atmosphere.

Hotel Borj Rabat puts clients close to some of the capital’s major landmarks, with Hassan Tower around 300 metres away and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V approximately 500 metres from the hotel. Set beside the Bouregreg River, the five-star property also offers views towards the river, marina and, from some vantage points, the Atlantic.

CASABLANCA

5* Barceló Anfa Casablanca

Casablanca shows off a very different side of Morocco. Cosmopolitan and contemporary, it’s a city where Art Deco heritage, modern neighbourhoods and major sights such as the Hassan II Mosque sit side by side.

That makes the Art Deco-inspired Barceló Anfa Casablanca a particularly fitting base. Located on Boulevard d’Anfa, the 206-room hotel has an outdoor pool, restaurant, fitness facilities and a wellness centre with hammam, steam bath and treatment rooms.

TANGIER

4* Barceló Tanger

Sitting at Morocco’s northern tip, Tangier has long been shaped by its position between Africa and Europe. Today, its medina, kasbah, coastline and multicultural heritage make it a fascinating option for clients wanting something a little different.

Barceló Tanger combines a city location with views towards the sea. It’s just a short walk from the marina, while the medina and Petit Socco are around 1.2–1.3km away. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor pool, wellness facilities and a rooftop overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar.

ESSAOUIRA

5* Le Medina Essaouira Hotel Thalassa sea & spa-MGallery by Sofitel 

For a slower pace, head west to Essaouira. This atmospheric Atlantic city offers a very different experience to Morocco’s larger urban centres, combining a sweeping beach with a UNESCO-listed medina, historic ramparts, artisan shops and a lively fishing port.

Set right on the beachfront and within easy walking distance of the medina, Le Medina Essaouira Hotel Thalassa Sea & Spa combines its coastal location with distinctly Moroccan touches. Rooms feature traditional details including thuya wood and zellige tiles, with selected rooms and suites overlooking Essaouira Bay. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor pool, private beach and a choice of dining venues, including MBeach overlooking the bay.

AGADIR

5* The View Agadir

If relaxation is the priority, Agadir brings a resort feel to the Moroccan coast. Its long beachfront and holiday-friendly atmosphere make it an easy option for clients who want sunshine and downtime while still experiencing Morocco.

The View Agadir sits directly on the seafront, just 500 metres from the city centre, combining easy access to Agadir with a private sandy beach. Elegant rooms and suites feature balconies or terraces overlooking the ocean, gardens or pool, while the hotel is also home to indoor and outdoor pools, several dining experiences and the 1,500m² Amaya Spa, complete with a heated indoor pool and traditional hammam.

One country, plenty of possibilities

Marrakech may be Morocco’s headline act, but it doesn’t have to be the whole story.

Fes for history. Rabat for understated culture. Casablanca for cosmopolitan energy. Tangier for its meeting of cultures. Essaouira for laid-back coastal character. Agadir for easy-going relaxation.

For travel agents, that’s what makes Morocco such an interesting destination to sell: the same country can offer very different holidays depending on where your clients choose to stay.