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A cultural rail journey through Marrakech, Rabat, Fes, and Meknes

Explore the heart of Morocco’s rich history with our Imperial Cities by Train itinerary – an inspiring journey through the country’s most iconic cities, all connected by scenic rail routes. Travelling by train allows for a relaxed pace, reduced driving hours, and the chance to see Morocco from a different perspective. From bustling medinas to Roman ruins, from tranquil palm groves to grand royal palaces – this journey is ideal for curious travellers looking to combine culture, comfort and adventure.

Fancy easing into the holiday mood first? We can easily reverse the itinerary, starting with a few relaxing days in the Palmeraie near Marrakech before diving into the vibrant city explorations.

Highlights of Your Imperial Cities by Train Adventure

  • Discover the very best of Morocco’s imperial cities — Marrakech, Rabat, Fes, and Meknes — all linked by comfortable train journeys.
  • Travel at a leisurely pace, soaking in the stunning landscapes and everyday life along the rail routes, without the hassle of long drives.
  • Dive into vibrant medinas bustling with colour and life, explore ancient Roman ruins, wander serene palm groves, and admire magnificent royal palaces.
  • Perfect for curious travellers who want a rich cultural experience balanced with comfort, style and a touch of adventure.

Your Itinerary

Marrakech's lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square at dusk

Day 1 - Arrival in Marrakech

Arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport, where you’ll be met and transferred to your traditional riad . Depending on your arrival time, take a gentle stroll through the neighbourhood or unwind on a rooftop terrace with a refreshing mint tea. Marrakech is a sensory delight, and your Moroccan adventure starts the moment you step outside.

Accommodation
Marrakech Souks

Day 2 - Guided Tour of Marrakech

Today you’ll discover the magic of Marrakech with a local guide. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and the Saadian Tombs, and explore the lively souks and narrow alleyways of the medina. End your tour at Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s famous square where snake charmers, street performers, and food stalls come alive at sunset. Your guide will offer insights into the city’s rich history and help you navigate its hidden corners.

Al Boraq high-speed train departing Tangier station

Day 3 - Train to Rabat

This morning, board a comfortable train for the journey north to Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital. The train ride offers a relaxed and scenic experience, giving you a glimpse of rural landscapes and everyday Moroccan life. Upon arrival in Rabat, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Accommodation
Chellah Necropolis with storks – Rabat travel guide

Day 4 - Guided Tour of Rabat

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of Rabat, a city that blends modern government with ancient architecture. Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, admire the impressive Hassan Tower, and visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Your guide will also take you through the historic medina and past the Royal Palace. Rabat’s calm, coastal atmosphere makes it a lovely contrast to the buzz of Marrakech.

Fes tannery – a glimpse into Morocco's ancient craftsmanship

Day 5 - Train to Fes

Board your train to Fes, the spiritual and intellectual capital of Morocco. This journey offers more beautiful views of the countryside as you make your way east. On arrival, settle into your traditional riad located in or near the heart of Fes el-Bali, one of the world’s most fascinating medieval cities.

Accommodation
Fes Medina

Day 6 - Guided Tour of Fes

Step back in time with a private guided tour of Fes, where you’ll wander through the UNESCO-listed medina, home to over 9,000 narrow streets and alleys. Highlights include the University of Al Quaraouiyine (the oldest in the world), the colourful Chouara Tanneries, and stunning madrasas such as Bou Inania. Fes is a treasure trove of history and craftsmanship – a city that still feels lost in time.

Meknes Imperial City

Day 7 - Day Trip to Meknes and Volubilis

Today you’ll take a private excursion to the nearby Imperial City of Meknes and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Meknes was once the grand vision of Sultan Moulay Ismail, and its monumental gates and royal granaries still impress today. At Volubilis, stroll through remarkably well-preserved Roman streets, mosaics, and columns – a peaceful contrast to the buzz of the cities. Return to Fes in the evening.

Tranquil boutique hotel in Marrakech’s Palmeraie

Day 8 - Train to Marrakech & Relax in the Palmeraie

Take the train back to Marrakech and head straight to the Palmeraie, a lush and peaceful area just outside the city. Check into a tranquil boutique hotel or villa surrounded by palm trees, and enjoy the slower pace. This is the perfect spot to recharge after your week of exploring.

Accommodation
Villa des Orangers

Day 9 - Day at Leisure in the Palmeraie

A full day to do as little or as much as you like. Lounge by the pool, indulge in a traditional hammam and spa treatment, or enjoy a camel ride through the palm groves. If you’re feeling energetic, we can also arrange a cooking class or yoga session. This day is all about relaxation and enjoying your surroundings.

Day 10 - Departure

You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, with memories of imperial cities, vibrant souks, ancient ruins and the warmth of Moroccan hospitality.

Tailor This Trip -

This itinerary can be personalised to suit your interests. Prefer to start with a few days of relaxation and explore Marrakech at the end? Want to include the Atlas Mountains or a few nights by the coast? Just let us know – we’ll tailor your Moroccan adventure to fit your travel style perfectly.

Cost for the 9 nights is from £1 500 per person B&B (excludes flights) based on 2 sharing a double room.

You can get flights from as little as £100 per person return and do ask us for advice.  Alternatively we can book the flights for you but a booking fee may apply.

All prices correct at the time of writing.  Give us a call or email us at morocco@fleewinter.com to discuss your requirements and get a confirmed price.

What's included?

INCLUDED:
  • Prices start from £1 500 per person
  • Accommodation on B&B basis
  • First Class Train Tickets
  • Return airport transfers
  • Transfers to and from the train stations
  • All guided tours mentioned in the itinerary
  • Local taxes
  • All trips are ATOL protected or ABTA bonded to ensure you are fully covered
 Make a booking
Marrakech
The start and finish for most Morocco Holidays. Highlights are the souks in the old Medina, the main square in the evening, the Majorelle gardens and the historical sites. You should definitely stay in a Marrakech Riad for at least a few nights but also some beautiful villas and hotels on the edge of town in rural Marrakech. Click for suggested riads More
Essaouira
Essaouira is our favourite at all times of year. Probably the prettiest coastal town in Morocco and loads to see and do. Great camel trekking, horse-riding, surfing kite/windsurfing, cooking lessons, lovely medina (more relaxing shopping than Marrakech). Also great places to stay in town and in the village click below for suggestions More
High Atlas Mountains
Incredibly close to Marrakech but a world apart, the Atlas mountains are an essential visit. Go for a day trip (trekking or driving tour), or stay in one of the beautiful kasbahs perched on a hilltop to relax and soak up the views More
Sahara Desert
The massive dunes of the Sahara should be on anyone's "bucket list" and it is easy to do a trip into the desert from Marrakech, Fes or the coast with a bit of planning More
Ait Ben Haddou
One of the most famous sights in Morocco, Ait Ben Haddou is a rock fortress on the south side of the Atlas. Always a good stopping point on our desert tours and a must for the photo album More
The Gorges
The Todra and Dades Gorges maybe a little over-hyped but certainly worth a stop on the way to Mezourga - part of our Desert & Gorges Tour More
Taroudant
A pretty walled town within easy reach of Agadir (so a lot of day trippers from the package hotels) but also a great place for a night's stop between the desert and the coast More
Agadir
Having been re-built after and earthquake 50 years ago it doesn't have as much charm as other Moroccan cities but the beach and climate are lovely More
Oualidia Lagoon
A small seaside town built up around a pretty estuary and lagoon. Home to La Sultana, the best coastal hotel in Morocco and can easily be combined with a visit to Marrakech and Essaouira More
Rabat
Less well known as a tourist destination but with recently introduced direct flights from the UK it is an interesting city where you can see the modern Morocco alongside the rivermouth Kasbah and the medina More
Casablanca
The biggest city in Morocco and an industrial sprawl. We generally advise not stopping there and even if flying to Casablanca head North to Fes/Rabat or south to Marrakech/Essaouira. If you are passing through it is worth visiting the spectacular seafront mosque.
Chefchaouen
The town of Chefchaouen is beautifully situated on a mountainside, often referred to as the blue pearl due to its shimmering blue buildings. It's worth learning the history behind the choice of this color, which contributed to the town's fame, making it one of the most photographed places in Morocco. In Chefchaouen, explore the picturesque medina with winding alleys and the Kasbah with its lush gardens, serving as a haven of freshness in the city center. Chefchaouen is a paradise for walkers, not only because of its most beautiful streets and alleys, which create an unreal impression but also due to the hiking trails around the city. Besides the Old Town, it's worth visiting the main square, Uta el Hamman, with numerous cafes, and seeing the 15th-century El Adamaa Masjid mosque in white-orange colors with its characteristic octagonal minaret. Chefchaouen is an excellent choice for a one-day trip or a relaxing overnight stay. More
Fes
Fes makes for a fabulous long weekend or as part of our "Grand Tour". The highlight is the medina which most people prefer to Marrakech, partly as it is on a hill you are much more aware of the geography. Also, do a day trip to the Roman ruins at Volubilis and ask about a night or two in the village of Bhalil More
Merzouga
The second good dune area of Morocco is Erg Chebbi by Merzouga - easier to get to (no 4x4 needed) and whilst the dunes are stunning we prefer Erg Cheggaga for a proper desert experience. More

Your adventure starts here!

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