Is Morocco Cheap for a Holiday?
Morocco is one of those places where your money can stretch surprisingly far—if you know where to look. It’s a country where you can sip mint tea in a centuries-old riad courtyard for less than the cost of a coffee back home or tuck into a hearty tagine for the price of a bus fare. But is Morocco cheap for a holiday? It can be, but only if you’re savvy. From chaotic souks to peaceful riads, and from tasty street food stalls to high-end restaurants, Morocco offers something for every budget. This guide will walk you through how to make the most of your money while experiencing the best Morocco has to offer.
Getting There: How to Find Cheap Flights to Morocco
Flights from the UK
Flights to Morocco are generally affordable, especially from major UK airports. Round-trip flights from London to Marrakech or Casablanca often range from £50–£150 if booked in advance. Flights from regional airports like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh may cost slightly more but still offer good deals with budget airlines. Booking in advance and flying midweek can help secure the lowest fares.
Money-saving tips
- Use fare comparison tools: If there are no current deals here on Flight Tribe, websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights help track price fluctuations.
- Set price alerts: Get notifications for fare drops.
- Fly into alternative airports: Consider Casablanca or Agadir, which sometimes offer cheaper flights.
- Book during off-peak seasons: Late autumn and early spring offer the best flight deals.
Affordable Accommodation: Where to Stay Without Overspending
Hostels
Budget travelers will find Morocco’s hostels incredibly affordable. Dorm beds start at £5–£10 per night, especially in cities like Marrakech and Fes. Popular options include:
- Bed Square Hostel (Marrakech): £10–£14 per night, with breakfast included.
- Equity Point (Marrakech): Around £12 per night, with amenities like a pool.
Note: Hostels often add a city tax (~£2–£3) payable in cash.
Riads
- Benefits: Riads often feature charming courtyards filled with plants and fountains, serene rooftop terraces offering views over the Medina, and home-cooked Moroccan breakfasts that include fresh bread, jams, olives, and mint tea. Many riads also provide amenities like plunge pools, traditional hammams, and cooking classes for guests.
- Recommended Riads:
- Riad Kniza (Marrakech): A luxury riad with exquisite decor, rooftop dining, and a small pool. From £120 per night.
- Riad Anya (Marrakech): Mid-range with a relaxing spa and panoramic rooftop views. From £60 per night.
- Riad Fes Maya (Fes): Known for its intricate tilework, spa services, and gourmet Moroccan cuisine. From £80 per night.
Challenges: Finding riads can be tricky due to the maze-like Medinas. Narrow alleys and unmarked doors can make navigation difficult, especially upon arrival. Many hosts offer to meet guests at central squares or provide detailed directions. Using Google Maps offline and booking accommodations that offer airport transfers can simplify the process.
Hotels & Resorts
- Mid-range hotels: £40–£70 per night.
- Ibis Marrakech Centre Gare: A reliable budget-friendly option with modern amenities and a pool. From £45 per night.
- Riad Bahia Salam: A charming riad with traditional decor, a rooftop terrace, and spa facilities. From £55 per night.
- Luxury resorts: Start at £200+, with some high-end options exceeding £1000 per night.
- Mandarin Oriental Marrakech: Ultimate luxury with private villas, a world-class spa, and fine dining. From £950 per night.
- Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech: Offers expansive grounds, golf courses, a spa, and exquisite dining—all for lower luxury rates compared to some top-tier resorts. From £300 per night.
Getting Around: Budget-Friendly Transport Options
Public Transport
- Buses: Local buses cost around £0.40 per ride. The airport shuttle (Alsa Bus 19) to central Marrakech is about £3.
- Trains: Comfortable and cheap for intercity travel. A ride from Marrakech to Casablanca costs ~£8–£10.
Taxis
- Petit taxis: Short city rides (~£1–£3). Always negotiate or insist on the meter.
- Grand taxis: Shared taxis for longer distances or between cities. Prices vary but are generally affordable.
Walking and Cycling
- Walking: The best way to explore Medinas, which are pedestrian-only zones.
- Cycling: Many Moroccan cities offer bike rentals, especially in tourist-friendly areas. In Marrakech, you can rent a bike through services like Pikala Bikes, which promotes sustainable tourism and offers rentals from around £5 per day. Essaouira, with its flat terrain and oceanfront promenade, is another excellent city for cycling. In Fes, guided bike tours are popular, providing a unique way to explore the Medina and nearby areas. Always wear a helmet and be cautious in busy traffic zones, as Moroccan roads can be hectic.
Car Rentals
- When it makes sense: Ideal for road trips to places like the Sahara.
- Costs: £20–£30 per day, but factor in fuel and parking.
Eating Well on a Budget: Affordable Moroccan Cuisine
Street Food
- Harira soup: ~£1.
- Kebabs and brochettes: ~£1–£2.
- Fresh juices: ~£0.50–£1.
Local Cafés
- Tagines and couscous: ~£3–£6.
- Mint tea: ~£0.50–£1.
- Popular spots:
- Roti D’or (Marrakech): Known for affordable wraps and burgers.
- Naima Couscous: Hearty couscous meals (~£5).
Mid-range and Fine Dining
- Mid-range: £10–£15 for a meal.
- Fine dining: £25+ per person.
- Dar Zellij: An upscale Moroccan restaurant in Marrakech known for its stunning 17th-century riad setting and traditional Moroccan dishes like lamb tagine and pigeon pastilla. Offers a 3-course set menu starting from £35, which is excellent value for its ambiance and quality.
- Mes’Lalla (Mandarin Oriental): A high-end dining spot in Marrakech offering refined Berber-influenced cuisine. Though part of a luxury hotel, their lunch set menu starts from £45, providing a chance to experience world-class dining at a more accessible price point.
Exploring Morocco’s Top Attractions Without Breaking the Bank
Free and Low-Cost Sights
- Medinas: Free to explore, with endless markets and alleys. Wander through the labyrinthine souks of Marrakech or Fes, where you can soak up the atmosphere, window shop, and even snag some affordable souvenirs if you’re up for bargaining.
- Bahia Palace: Entry ~£5. This 19th-century palace in Marrakech boasts beautiful gardens, intricate tilework, and opulent architecture that showcase the height of Moroccan craftsmanship.
- Saadian Tombs: ~£5–£7. Dating back to the 16th century, these tombs in Marrakech feature stunning mosaics and house the remains of Saadian dynasty royalty.
Cultural Experiences
- Hammams: Public baths for as low as £5. Try Hammam Mouassine in Marrakech for a traditional scrub or splurge a bit more (~£20) for a luxury experience at Les Bains de Marrakech.
- Walking tours: Explore Fes with a local guide through GuruWalk, where tips are appreciated but not mandatory.
Day Trips and Excursions
- Essaouira: Coastal town, ~£25 for a day trip. Known for its laid-back vibe, blue-and-white medina, and fresh seafood. Bus companies like Supratours offer affordable return trips from Marrakech.
- Agafay Desert: Closer alternative to the Sahara (~£45 for a sunset dinner and camel ride). Many local tour operators offer half-day trips including a traditional Moroccan meal under the stars.
- Sahara Desert: Multi-day tours from £100–£200. A typical 3-day, 2-night trip to Merzouga includes transportation, camel trekking, and accommodation in desert camps—often with meals included, providing excellent value for an unforgettable experience.
Daily Costs by Travel Style
- Budget traveler: £25–£35/day (~$30–$45). This budget typically covers dormitory accommodation in hostels or budget riads, street food meals, and public transport. It’s ideal for backpackers who don’t mind basic amenities and want to experience Morocco on a shoestring.
- Mid-range traveler: £50–£80/day (~$60–$100). This range allows for private rooms in mid-range riads or hotels, dining at local cafés and mid-range restaurants, and participation in occasional paid attractions or guided tours. It’s suitable for travelers seeking more comfort without splurging.
- Luxury traveler: £150+/day (~$190+). This budget includes stays in luxury riads or five-star hotels, dining at high-end restaurants, private guided tours, and spa treatments. It caters to those who want a premium experience with added comforts and exclusive services.
7-Day Sample Itinerary Cost
- Accommodation: £70–£665. Budget travelers can find hostels for as low as £10 per night, mid-range riads range from £45–£80 per night, and luxury accommodations like the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech start from £950 per night.
- Food: £50–£175. Street food and local markets offer meals for as low as £1–£3, mid-range restaurants charge £10–£15 per meal, and fine dining establishments like Dar Zellij start at £35 for a set menu, with luxury options like Mes’Lalla starting at £45.
- Transport: £20–£80. Public buses and trains are very affordable, with intercity train rides costing around £8–£10. Airport shuttles average £3, and local buses cost about £0.40. Taxis and car rentals (£20–£30/day) will add to the budget, especially for day trips or excursions.
- Attractions and tours: £50–£220. Entry to historical sites ranges from £5–£7. Guided day trips to Essaouira or the Agafay Desert cost between £25–£45. Multi-day Sahara desert tours, including meals and accommodation, range from £100–£200.
Where You’ll Spend the Most
- Tours and excursions: Multi-day tours to the Sahara or Atlas Mountains.
- Alcohol and imported goods: Alcohol is heavily taxed and primarily available in licensed establishments.
- Luxury experiences: High-end riads, spa treatments, and gourmet dining.
Where You Can Save
- Street food: Delicious and affordable, with options like tagines and kebabs.
- Local transport: Buses, shared taxis, and trains offer low-cost options.
- Free attractions: Medinas, souks, and city parks are free to explore.
- Group tours: Sharing the cost of guided tours can reduce expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is 1000 Moroccan dirhams a lot?
No, 1000 MAD (~£78 or ~$98) is moderate. It can cover a few days of budget travel or one luxury meal.
Is Morocco expensive for UK travelers?
Generally no. Accommodation, food, and transport are cheaper than in the UK.
Can you drink alcohol in Morocco?
Yes, but only in licensed venues like hotels and certain bars.
How much should I budget for a week in Morocco?
- Budget: £175–£245
- Mid-range: £350–£560
- Luxury: £900+
Is it cheap to eat out in Marrakech?
Yes. Street food starts at £1–£3, and mid-range meals cost £10–£15.
Which is cheaper, Morocco or Spain?
Morocco is significantly cheaper.
What is worth buying in Morocco?
Rugs, leather goods, spices, and argan oil.
Is eating out in Morocco expensive?
No. Street food and cafés are affordable.
What is the best month to travel to Morocco?
March–May and September–November.
Is Morocco friendly to tourists?
Yes, though it’s important to be aware of scams.
Do you tip in Morocco?
Yes, 5–10% in restaurants, and small amounts for services.
How much money do you need for a holiday in Morocco?
A week can cost as little as £200 for budget travelers.
What is the cost of a trip to Morocco?
Flights range from £150–£400, with total costs starting around £500 for budget trips.
How much does a meal cost in Morocco?
- Street food: £1–£3
- Cafés: £3–£6
- Mid-range: £10–£15
- Fine dining: £25+
Is Morocco expensive to visit?
No, it’s one of the more affordable international destinations.
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