Morocco : book your hotel

Discover a country full of charm and natural beauty with its golden sandy beaches, vibrant sceneries, and breath-taking sunrises and sunsets. Its unique and alluring cities – Marrakech, Casablanca, Tangier, Rabat and many more – boast rich culture and history, magnificent architectural ensembles, splendid mosques, spectacular landscapes, bustling nightlife, and a mélange of attractions that have been arousing considerable interest from visitors that come from far and wide. Whether you wish to lounge on the beach, stroll on the promenades or hike through the red valleys, this unique country will provide you with all the experiences that suit your style and taste, and whisk you away on a journey you will never forget.

Immersing yourself in the Moroccan culture means understanding the merge of its history with the modern development and how they complete each other harmoniously. A diverse fusion of Arab, European, Berber, and African cultures, the Kingdom of Morocco, or Al-Maghreb, with its Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, formed for long a crossroad between the African and European continents. Marrakech, a city in southern Morocco, was founded by the Almoravids in the mid-11th century, led by Yusu Ibn Tashfin, who was one of the major leaders and promoters of an Islamic system in the region of Marrakech and Muslim Spain. The Almohad Empire rebelled against the Almoravids and the city fell to the former in 1147. During this time Marrakech served as the primary capital of the Kingdom of Morocco. In the year 1247, the Marinid dynasty overthrew the Almohads, and in 1269, they captured Marrakech and later extended their control of trade in the Strait of Gibraltar. It is during this period that Marrakech became the regional capital of the south. The Marinids founded the north African city of Fez in 1276 and from then on, the city flourished as an important centre for intellectuals and international trade. In 1525, Marrakech was captured by the Saadian dynasty, and they established their capital in Marrakech. Between the mid-16th and mid-17th centuries, Marrakech reached its peak glory and grandeur. The Saadian dynasty declined later and a new dynasty, the Alaouites, was founded during 1664-1672. Later on, Sultan of Morocco, Moulay Ismail Ibn Sharif built the Imperial City of Meknes and reigned over the country until 1727, during this time Morocco was a strong, centralised country. During the 19th century, Morocco remained an independent country. However, the beginning of the 20th century saw the British German, French and Spanish forces competing with one another to dominate Morocco. In 1912, Marrakech was captured by the leader Ahmad Al-Hibah who was later defeated and driven-out by the French forces and became part of the French protectorate until 1956, which marked Morocco's independence. In 1999, Mohammed VI became king of Marrakech, pioneering economic and political changes, and Rabat later became the capital of modern Morocco as a way of compromise for the two rival cities of Fez and Marrakech.

Morocco's splendid culture was mostly influenced by the Berbers on a wide aspect of their way of life. The use of spices for example in most regions is a trait of Barbarian's presence. As for their music, the Moroccans are traditionally known for their instruments of the Arab and Amazigh region. A classical Andalusian touch characteristic of North Africa shows as well in the Moroccan melodies. While the majority of Morocco habitants are Berbers and Arabs making the two official languages Berber and Arabic, you can also find French widely spoken except in the norther region. That is where Spanish also is predominant. The major religion in the country is Islam – Sunni that forms the foundation for most families. It shows by the importance of family's unity and taking care of one's parents when they grow old. Hence why you cannot find many elderly homes in Morocco. The second-largest religious group in Morocco is Christianity despite most of Christians being foreigners. Judaist and irreligious categories of society in some Moroccan parts. For a country this beautifully diverse, the Moroccan fashion stands out as a cultural attribute. Women and men in Morocco traditionally adorn the djellaba, which consists of a long sleeved loose hooded cloth. However, the youth of modern Morocco are slowly switching up their style to western clothing. Vivid colours, extraordinary patterns and slippers form the main criteria in the Moroccan's fashion choice. Another important aspect in the Moroccan tourism and cultural initiation is its nightlife experience. You do not want to miss out on the many festivals that take place, most famously the Tan-Tan festival, the Cherry festival and many more. The Gnaoua festival is the most legendary festival to attend in Morro. It combines many great performances that take on a spiritual and artistic aspect. Wearing colourful costumes and playing the Gnaouas musical instruments, the artists transport you with their art, engaging all your senses.

Morocco is a place of multiple attractions, one where culture, tradition, music, and food blend in perfect harmony. From the moment you step on its land, you will be absorbed by the colours, sounds, and astonishing views surrounding you. Embark on a tour in the Sahara Desert, along the wonderful coasts or take a cruise to unforgettable destinations and feel the magic of a vibrant Morocco.

For all avid fans of Game of Thrones, Essaouira or Mogador will satisfy your wildest dreams. This is where parts of the show were filmed. Attractively located on the seaside, Essaouira holds up to an ancient little town charm where you can find the ramparts, visit the port and watch the fishermen on their duties. It also hosts one of the most vivid beach festivals in the world, the Gnaoua Festival. Make sure to visit the 18th century Essaouira Citadel, as well as nearby beaches where you can partake in water activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. Plan a day trip from Marrakech or Agadir and enjoy this charming coastal city, while staying at one of the top hotels in Essaouira.

Sun, sand, and sea. This is what Agadir is all about. Bask in Agadir's blue shores for cooling down under the Moroccan heat or take a walk on Agadir's beachfront promenade and stop by local shops and food stands along the way and meet friendly locals. A perfect holiday destination for unwinding, Agadir also serves as a layover point for day trips and longer journeys to the other touristic towns of the Souss Valley and Anti Atlas regions. Visit Agadir's port city. An important part of Morocco's tourism as one of the most important fishing ports in the country, Agadir booms with both business and fun. Its resort-y feel gives this area a more relaxing feel to it, escaping for a quieter time. If you're planning a visit to the city, you can choose to stay in the comforts of Sofitel Agadir Thalassa Sea & Spa, located in the heart of the Tamazigh capital, or book any one of the top Accor Hotels in Agadir.

While visiting the town of Mazagan (El Jadida), make sure to visit the Portuguese Cistern. Historically part of the Fortress of Mazagan and serving as a warehouse and armoury, the Portuguese Cistern, more than 500 years old is now classified as cultural heritage monument. It is also considered one of the last remaining Portuguese structures in Morocco. Besides its importance as a historic landmark, its unmissable beauty lies in the water covering is floor that reflect the rays of Moroccan sun shining from the roof. A true eye-appealing scene.

Explore the beautiful art at Casablanca's Hassan II Mosque. A landmark building and a prominent attraction for Morocco itself and not just Casablanca. A state-of-the-art modern mosque, established in 1993 and covered with detailed art that nearly took the work of 10,000 artisans to complete. The mosque's interior is created by intricately carved marble pieces, mosaics and breath-taking tile details, a work of art that pays tribute to the traditional Islamic architectural ideals and artisanship. One of the main attributes in visiting this monument in Casablanca, is the fact that it is the only mosque that non-Muslims can enter in Morocco. For the unversed, Casablanca is famous for being the setting of the 1942 romantic film. It is Morocco's main entry point, a key business hub, and one of the busiest cities in the country. Exploring Casablanca's old road towns is certain to take your breath away with their old Moorish architecture where the European style seems to infiltrate here and there. You can find many strolls and streets worth visiting such as Rue Tahar Sabti and Boulevard Mohamed V. Visit the second largest b