Most mosques in Morocco are closed to non-Muslims. However, some exceptions include the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Mohammed V Mausoleum in Rabat, and some historic madrasas that welcome all visitors.
Morocco is generally safe for visitors. While violent crime is uncommon, be aware of petty theft and persistent vendors in markets. Women travelers should dress modestly and may receive more attention in conservative areas.
Morocco uses the Moroccan dirham (MAD) as its official currency. While some establishments accept euros or US dollars, it's best to use dirhams for better exchange rates and easier transactions throughout the country. Cash is definitely king!
Tipping is customary and appreciated in Morocco. In restaurants, 10% of the bill is standard. Small tips are expected for services like guided tours, hotel staff, and assistance with directions or information.
Arabic is the official language, with Berber also recognized. French is widely spoken due to colonial history, and English is increasingly common in areas and among younger people.
During Ramadan, many restaurants close during daytime hours, and eating or drinking publicly is discouraged out of respect for those fasting. However, establishments serve meals after sunset, and the atmosphere becomes festive in the evenings.
Fez is renowned for its culinary traditions. Don't miss tagines (slow-cooked stews), couscous, pastilla (sweet-savory pastry), harira soup, and mint tea. The city is considered the gastronomic capital of Morocco.
The best time to visit Fez is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are moderate. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter offers mild weather but shorter daylight hours.
