Morocco is an incredible destination for a family holiday. It’s colourful, exciting, full of fascinating things to discover and offers the kind of experiences your children will be talking about long after you’ve returned home. While other UK families are going to Greece, Spain and France, you could be having a real adventure.
One day you could be exploring the winding streets of Marrakech, hunting for treasures in the colourful souks and sipping freshly squeezed orange juice in a sunny square. Then next, you could be riding camels, discovering traditional mountain villages, learning to cook delicious Moroccan food or building sandcastles on a beautiful Atlantic beach.
It’s a holiday that’s packed with adventure, but there’s also plenty of time for swimming pools, lazy lunches and relaxing together as a family.
I’ve put together this one-week Morocco itinerary starting in Marrakech, with child-friendly activities and a manageable pace so you can make the most of your time without exhausting everyone. Here’s how I’d plan the perfect seven-day family adventure in Morocco!
Your seven-day Morocco itinerary at a glance
- Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech and settle into your riad.
- Day 2: Explore Marrakech’s medina, souks, famous main square and take a trip into the desert for camel riding and a night time fire show.
- Day 3: Discover beautiful gardens, try a Moroccan cooking class and enjoy some pool time.
- Day 4: Take a family adventure into the Atlas Mountains.
- Day 5: Travel to Essaouira for beaches, fishing boats and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
- Day 6: Enjoy a full day of beach adventures and exploring Essaouira.
- Day 7: Return to Marrakech for your journey home.
This itinerary works best if you fly into and out of Marrakech. You’ll have two main bases, which means fewer hotel changes, less packing and unpacking, and more time actually enjoying your holiday.
With so many experiences to choose from, planning a family holiday in Morocco can feel a little overwhelming, especially when travelling with children. For families who prefer a more personalised experience, local specialists like Morocco Travel Experts can help organise a private Morocco family tour with child-friendly activities, comfortable accommodation and an itinerary tailored to the family’s interests and pace.
Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech and settle into your riad
Your first day is all about arriving, getting your bearings and letting the children adjust to their new surroundings.
Marrakech is a fantastic introduction to Morocco. It’s busy, colourful and full of life, with winding alleyways, traditional buildings, street vendors and the smell of spices drifting through the air.
For accommodation, I’d look at a traditional riad in or near the medina. Riads are Moroccan houses built around an internal courtyard, often with intricate tiles, beautiful lanterns and a rooftop terrace. Some have small plunge pools, which can be a lifesaver when you’re travelling with children.
If you have younger children, check the practical details before booking. Some riads have steep staircases, little soundproofing and plunge pools without fencing. A larger hotel with a proper swimming pool might be a better choice if you want plenty of space for everyone. There are also plenty of all-inclusive family hotels on the outskirts of Marrakech which offer brilliant value.
Once you’ve unpacked, head out for a gentle wander around the neighbourhood. You don’t need to plan anything elaborate today. Find a café, try some fresh orange juice and let the children take in the sights and sounds.
If everyone still has energy, visit Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech’s famous main square. It’s particularly atmospheric towards sunset, when food stalls, musicians and street performers bring the square to life.
Keep an eye on little ones in the crowds, and don’t feel you need to stay late. A simple dinner and an early night are perfectly acceptable holiday plans when you’ve travelled with children.
Family travel tip: Arrange an airport transfer in advance, ideally with child seats if you need them. Don’t assume every taxi will have suitable seats available.
If you’re planning to hire a car and drive, you might want to check out this amazing Morocco road trip!
Day 2: Explore the souks, palaces and lively streets of Marrakech
Today is about experiencing the Marrakech you’ve probably seen in photographs.
Start early, before the streets get too hot and busy, and explore the medina with a local guide. Having someone explain the history, culture and traditions makes the experience more interesting for adults, while children can enjoy spotting things they wouldn’t otherwise notice.
The souks can be crowded and a little overwhelming, particularly for younger children, so keep your visit fairly short. There’s no need to spend hours wandering around every alleyway.
Visit Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is a lovely place to introduce children to Moroccan architecture. Its ornate ceilings, tiled courtyards, colourful mosaics and peaceful gardens are beautiful, and there are plenty of details to look for together.
Rather than trying to absorb every historical fact, challenge the children to spot the prettiest doorway or count the different patterns in the tiles. Sometimes a little game is all it takes to turn sightseeing into something everyone enjoys.
Take a break for lunch
Find a rooftop restaurant where you can sit down, cool off and watch the city from above.
Moroccan food is generally a good introduction for children who enjoy simple, familiar flavours. Chicken tagine, grilled skewers, bread, couscous and flatbreads are all worth trying. If your children aren’t particularly adventurous eaters, there’s no need to turn every meal into a culinary challenge.
Take a desert tour
Book a desert tour for the late afternoon. There are lots to choose from but I’d go for one which includes a camel ride over the sand dunes and a traditional dinner at a desert camp. There will be fire dancing and traditional shows as you sip mint tea and admire the stars! This is an incredible adventure that the children will remember for a lifetime!
Day 3: Discover Marrakech’s gardens and try a Moroccan cooking class
After yesterday’s busy day in the medina, today has a gentler feel.
Start with Jardin Majorelle, one of Marrakech’s most famous attractions. The garden is known for its striking cobalt-blue buildings, exotic plants, towering cacti and winding paths.
It feels like a little oasis away from the busy city, and children who enjoy exploring gardens will find plenty to look at. Book tickets in advance, check the current entry arrangements and aim for an early visit to avoid the busiest part of the day.
Afterwards, head back to your hotel for lunch and some downtime by the pool.
Learn to cook Moroccan food together
In the afternoon, book a family-friendly Moroccan cooking class.
Depending on the provider, you might learn how to prepare a tagine, make traditional bread, mix spices or create Moroccan pastries. Some classes include a visit to a local market, which is another fun way for children to learn about everyday life in Morocco.
The best part is getting to eat what you’ve made afterwards. It’s a brilliant activity for children who enjoy getting involved, and it’s a nice alternative to another afternoon of sightseeing.
Check minimum ages and whether the class can accommodate younger children before booking.
If you’d rather have a completely relaxed afternoon, swap the cooking class for a wander around Le Jardin Secret or a visit to Cyber Park, where you can enjoy some greenery without committing to a full excursion.
Read more: An incredible 3 day itinerary for Marrakech
Day 4: Head into the Atlas Mountains for an outdoor adventure
Today, leave the city behind and explore a different side of Morocco.
The Atlas Mountains rise beyond Marrakech, with dramatic landscapes, traditional Amazigh villages and beautiful valleys. It’s a wonderful contrast to the city’s busy streets, and there are several ways to experience the area with children.
I’d arrange a day trip with a reputable local guide or driver who understands family travel. Depending on the route, you could visit a traditional village, enjoy lunch with mountain views, take a gentle walk and learn a little about local life.
The Ourika Valley is a popular option for a day trip from Marrakech. It has riverside cafés, mountain scenery and access to the Setti Fatma waterfalls.
However, be realistic about the walking involved. Some paths are steep, uneven and slippery, so the waterfall hike isn’t suitable for every age or ability. With toddlers, I’d stick to a gentle walk and a riverside lunch rather than attempting a challenging climb.
Older children and teenagers might enjoy a longer guided hike, provided everyone has suitable footwear and the weather is appropriate.
Day 5: Travel to Essaouira for beaches and seaside adventures
Today, swap the bustle of Marrakech for the laid-back atmosphere of Essaouira.
The journey from Marrakech takes roughly three hours by road, depending on traffic and stops. I’d arrange private transport if you’re travelling with younger children, as it gives you more flexibility for comfort breaks and snacks.
Essaouira is a coastal town on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, known for its historic medina, sandy beach, fishing harbour and whitewashed buildings with blue shutters.
It’s a lovely destination for families because the pace feels more relaxed than Marrakech. There’s still plenty to explore, but you can combine sightseeing with long beach walks and leisurely meals.
After checking into your accommodation, head out to explore the medina. Its narrow streets are full of small shops selling crafts, textiles, artwork and souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively, but the town can feel easier to navigate than Marrakech’s busiest areas.
Make your way towards the harbour, where you can watch the fishing boats and see the day’s catch being brought in. The children might enjoy spotting the different boats and watching the activity around the port.
For lunch, look for freshly grilled fish or seafood, with simpler alternatives available if your children prefer something familiar.
Spend the afternoon on the beach
Essaouira’s long sandy beach is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Children can play in the sand, collect shells where permitted and enjoy a run around after a morning in the car.
The Atlantic can be windy, and the water may be cold or rough, so don’t assume it’s always suitable for swimming. Keep children close to the water’s edge and pay attention to local safety advice.
If the weather is breezy, embrace it. A walk along the beach, followed by hot chocolate or mint tea in a café, can be just as enjoyable as a swim.
Finish with an early dinner and a sunset stroll if everyone still has energy.
Day 6: Enjoy a full day of family fun in Essaouira
Your second day in Essaouira is deliberately unhurried. After several days of exploring, it’s time to enjoy being somewhere rather than constantly travelling between attractions.
Start with a walk along the historic ramparts. The old defensive walls offer wonderful views of the Atlantic and the town’s distinctive architecture. Children who enjoy imagining themselves in a historical adventure will love exploring the old fortifications.
Next, wander through the medina at your own pace. Look for local crafts, browse the small shops and stop whenever something catches your eye. You could even let the children choose a small souvenir to remember the trip.
Choose your own coastal adventure
Depending on your children’s ages and the weather, there are several ways to spend the afternoon.
For younger children: Head back to the beach for sandcastle building, a picnic or a long walk along the shore.
For older children: Look into a beginner-friendly surf lesson with a reputable local school. Essaouira is known for its wind and water sports, but conditions can be challenging, so choose an instructor who can assess the weather and your children’s abilities.
For everyone: Take a break in a café, enjoy a leisurely lunch or simply wander through the town looking for interesting doors, colourful artwork and little shops.
You could also ask locally about horse riding or camel rides on the beach, but choose an operator carefully and check the animal welfare standards before booking.
In the evening, enjoy one last Moroccan dinner. Order a few different dishes to share, try something new and let the children pick their favourite meal from the week.
This is also a good time to talk about the best bits of the trip. I’d be willing to bet that the things the children remember most won’t necessarily be the famous attractions. It might be the orange juice in the square, the camel they spotted, the shop full of colourful slippers or the first time they tried a tagine.
Day 7: Return to Marrakech and head home
Sadly, all good holidays come to an end.
After breakfast, travel back to Marrakech for your flight home. Allow plenty of time for the drive, particularly if you have an international departure or are travelling during a busy period.
If your flight is later in the day, you might have time for a final lunch or a little souvenir shopping, but I wouldn’t plan anything that risks making the journey stressful.
And that’s your week in Morocco: a little culture, a little adventure, time on the beach and plenty of opportunities to try something new together.
Where to stay in Morocco with children
For a one-week trip, I’d keep things simple and choose just two bases: Marrakech and Essaouira.
Marrakech: choose a riad or a hotel with a pool
A traditional riad is a memorable way to experience Moroccan hospitality. Look for family rooms or connecting rooms, a location within easy reach of the sights and a courtyard or rooftop where you can relax.
However, don’t book purely on aesthetics. Check whether the accommodation has stairs, whether the pool is suitable for your children’s ages and whether cars can reach the entrance.
A larger hotel in the Hivernage or Gueliz areas may suit families who want more space, easier transport access and a swimming pool.
Essaouira: stay close to the medina or beach
In Essaouira, I’d look for accommodation within walking distance of both the historic centre and the beach.
A family-friendly hotel gives you the convenience of services and facilities, while a traditional guesthouse offers more character. Think about whether your children will be comfortable sharing a room and whether you want breakfast included.
Being able to walk to dinner, the harbour and the beach makes a big difference when you’re travelling with children.
What is the best time to visit Morocco with kids?
Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for this itinerary.
March to May and September to November can offer pleasant conditions for exploring Marrakech and the mountains, although temperatures vary and evenings can be cooler in the mountains.
Summer can be extremely hot in Marrakech, making sightseeing uncomfortable for younger children. If you’re travelling during the school summer holidays, plan outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and prioritise accommodation with a good swimming pool.
Essaouira is often breezier than Marrakech, but the Atlantic coast can be windy throughout the year.
Winter can also be a good time to visit the city, with cooler daytime temperatures and chilly evenings. Pack layers, particularly if you’re planning a mountain excursion. You’ll miss out on swimming pool fun (unless your hotel has a heated pool) but I love visiting Morocco in the winter for some winter sunshine.
Whatever time you travel, check the forecast before booking outdoor activities and avoid trying to do too much during the hottest part of the day.
Practical tips for travelling to Morocco with children
A little preparation makes a family trip to Morocco much easier.
Book your transfers in advance. Arrange airport transfers and the journey between Marrakech and Essaouira before you arrive. Confirm whether child seats are available or bring suitable seats if needed.
Carry water and sun protection. Hats, high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses and reusable water bottles are useful essentials. Follow local advice on drinking water and use bottled or appropriately treated water when necessary.
Dress comfortably and respectfully. Lightweight clothing that covers shoulders and knees is a useful choice when visiting religious or historic sites and exploring local neighbourhoods. Pack layers for cooler evenings.
Take a baby carrier for younger children. The medina’s narrow streets, uneven surfaces and steps can make a pushchair awkward. A carrier is often easier for exploring busy areas.
Keep your schedule flexible. Aim for one main activity in the morning and another in the afternoon, with plenty of time for lunch, swimming and rest. Children don’t need to see every attraction to have an amazing holiday.
Check travel insurance and entry requirements. Make sure everyone has appropriate travel insurance, check passport validity and review the latest entry requirements before departure.
Choose excursions carefully. Check minimum ages, journey times, safety arrangements and whether an activity is suitable for your children. For mountain trips, pay particular attention to walking distances and terrain.
Have a plan for busy places. Keep younger children close in crowded squares and markets, agree on a meeting point with older children and carry your accommodation details with you.
What will children eat in Morocco?
One of the lovely things about travelling in Morocco is that many traditional dishes are easy to share as a family.
Chicken tagine is a good starting point, often cooked slowly with vegetables, olives or dried fruit. Couscous, grilled meat skewers, fresh bread and Moroccan pancakes are also worth trying.
Breakfast might include bread, jam, honey, eggs and fresh fruit, while mint tea and fresh orange juice are popular drinks.
If your children are fussy eaters, don’t panic. Many restaurants offer simple grilled dishes, bread and familiar sides. My daughter is pretty fussy but we can always find some grilled chicken and fries!
Is one week in Morocco enough for a family holiday?
Absolutely, provided you don’t try to see the entire country.
A week gives you enough time to experience Marrakech, enjoy a day in the Atlas Mountains and discover the Atlantic coast in Essaouira. You’ll get a wonderful mix of culture, scenery, food and outdoor adventures without spending every other day packing your bags.
If you’re looking for a family trip that feels adventurous without being impossibly complicated, Morocco is well worth considering. Start in Marrakech, take your time, leave room for spontaneous discoveries and let the children experience somewhere completely different from home.
