Discover Morocco: Explore Iconic Tourist Spots While Enjoying AFCON 2025

Credit: Moroccopedia 

Beyond football, the Moroccan cities where the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) matches will be staged have other things going for them, chief among which is their tourism appeal. It will therefore be a major pass up for football lovers to spend days or weeks in these locations without relishing their iconic features. 

With its rich cultural tapestry, stunning landscapes, intoxicating scents, camel rides and warm hospitality, the North African country offers visitors much more than just football. How will you be able to live with yourself after going for AFCON 2025 experiencing the vibrant riads, souk shopping, nightlife historic kasbahs (fortresses), medinas, souks and majestic palaces alongside state-of-the-art theatres, museums and parks?

Sportblot hereby presents some of the top tourist attractions to explore during your trip so that you can return with much more than the thrills of the tourney.

Marrakech: The Red City

No trip to Morocco is complete without a visit to Marrakech, often called the "Red City" due to the red sandstone used in its architecture. The Jardin Majorelle offers a serene escape with its vibrant blue and green hues, a perfect contrast to the bustling streets. When night falls, the Djemaa el-Fna Square transforms into a circus of street performers.

With its endless winding cobbled streets, this city parades gardens like those of Menara, as well as mosques like the Koutoubia Mosque being one of the biggest of the Islamic world. The Bahia Palace: is a stunning example of Moroccan craftsmanship, this 19th-century palace is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Marrakech has a blend of cosmopolitan and authentic Arabic flavour, availing tourists with the best of both worlds. If you are after luxury in abundance, then reside at the Royal Mansour hotel; owned by the King, this private hotel plays hosts to diplomats, dignitaries and a large number of international celebrities.

Casablanca: Morocco’s Modern Face

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This is the most populated city Morocco and the economic nervecentre of the nation. Casablanca is a blend of modernity and tradition in the manner of sleek skyscrapers coexisting with traditional Moroccan souks. While known for its cosmopolitan vibe, it also boasts cultural and historical landmarks.

• Hassan II Mosque: This architectural marvel sits on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, offering guided tours of its intricate interior The Hassan II Mosque stands as a testament to both architectural grandeur and spiritual significance. With its stunning seaside location, it’s a place of beauty and serenity. Visitors can marvel at the intricate tile-work and the world’s tallest minaret. Guided tours offer insights into the mosque’s history and architecture.
• The Corniche: Casablanca’s coastline is adorned with the picturesque Corniche, a promenade that invites leisurely strolls and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. As the sun sets, this waterfront stretch comes alive with locals and visitors alike, enjoying the sea breeze and the serene atmosphere.

As the host city for several AFCON matches, visitors can while away their spare time here by wandering through the narrow alleys to discover local crafts, traditional foods, and historic charm. You can also experience the city’s creative buzz in the Maarif district, where Moroccan artists and designers are opening contemporary galleries and boutiques like local designer Zila Russi.

Fez: The Spiritual Heart of Morocco

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Fès is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco, hosting Complexe Sportif de Fès where some of the African Cup of Nations matches will be played

Fez is a treasure trove for history and culture lovers, home to one of the world’s oldest universities and an intricate medina that feels like stepping back in time.  In Fes you can visit its great Medina, a Moorish city of the ninth century composed of more than 9,000 streets that is considered the best preserved in the Arab world and the largest pedestrian urban area on the planet.

• Fes el Bali: The old medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with winding streets, historic mosques, and bustling markets.
• Al-Qarawiyyin University: Founded in 859 AD, this is the oldest existing university in the world.
• Tanneries of Fez: Don’t miss the tanneries, where you can see the centuries-old traditional process of leather-making—it's a colorful, aromatic experience that’s both fascinating and educational.

In the final analysis, Fes is where Morocco’s historical and cultural heritage is preserved in its purest form. While in Morocco, be sure to visit Bab Boujeloud, a landmark gate to Fes el Bali and Bou Inania Medersa, a breathtaking medieval college building of astounding craftwork.

Rabat: The Capital City

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Rabat, Morocco’s capital, combines modern sophistication with historical charm. The city’s grand boulevards, government buildings, and diplomatic missions reflect its status as the nation’s political and administrative capital. Football functionaries and fans will be here for the sake of Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium where some of the AFCON matches will be played.

• Royal Palace: The Royal Palace in Rabat is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Morocco’s rich heritage. While the palace itself is not open to the public, visitors can admire its ornate gates and the guards in traditional attire. The palace area is particularly enchanting in the evening when illuminated.
• Kasbah of the Udayas: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Kasbah of the Udayas is a historical gem. This ancient fortress perched on a cliff overlooking the Bou Regreg River showcases Moorish and Andalusian architectural influences. Explore its narrow streets, blue-and-white buildings, and serene gardens for a journey back in time.
• Necropolis of Chellah Sellah: This is on the outskirts of Rabat you can visit the, an ancient and prosperous Roman city abandoned, rebuilt in the thirteenth century by the Almohads as a necropolis and destroyed in the earthquake of 1755. 

Agadir: A Coastal Paradise

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Agadir is a member of the very exclusive club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World. It houses a marina that can accommodate several hundred pleasure boats.

Agadir’s sandy beaches and modern amenities make it an ideal destination for relaxation.

Some historical sites can be visited such as the old Kasbah, Reserve Wadi Massa. But this is clearly not the current vocation of Agadir. The city remains a fairly specific destination, a modern, dynamic and alive.

• Beach Resorts: Perfect for unwinding after the excitement of AFCON matches.
• Souk El Had: A bustling market offering everything from spices to textiles.
• Kasbah: Overlooking the city, the ruins of this hilltop fortress provide panoramic views of the coastline.

Agadir’s trump card is its miraculous climate; averaging 300 days of sunshine a year, the city radiates eternal summer vibes. Home to a 10 km stretch of sandy beach, this city has all the entrapments for a successful seaside holiday.

Tangier: a city perched on the Mediterranean coast

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In the far north of Morocco is this easy breezy coastal city which makes for a Mediterranean infused entry point. The busy port is a major link between Europe and Africa, for trade and tourism, with Tarifa in Spain being just an hour’s crossing away. Experience Tangier’s vibrant café culture in the city’s leafy squares and cliff-edge cafés: Café Hafa is an institution. Here, multiple terraces are built into the hillside, and you can sip your long-pour mint tea (a Tangier speciality) overlooking the Gibraltar Strait. Amid the AFCON matches to be played in Stade Ibn Batouta, stroll through the vibrant medina, visit the historic Kasbah, and soak in the cosmopolitan ambiance. 

Conclusion: Practical Tips for Tourists

• Transportation: Morocco has an extensive network of trains and buses, making it easy to travel between cities. Taxis and rideshare apps are convenient for local trips.
• Cuisine: Don’t miss out on iconic Moroccan dishes like couscous, tagines, and pastilla. Street food such as msemen (Moroccan pancakes) is also worth trying.
• Shopping: Haggling is a common practice in markets, so don’t shy away from negotiating prices.
• Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites, to show respect for local customs.

As you cheer on your favorite teams during AFCON 2025, take the opportunity to explore Morocco’s diverse attractions in these cities. Whether you’re drawn to its historical cities, majestic landscapes, or vibrant culture, Morocco promises an unforgettable adventure for every visitor. Pack your bags, bring your football spirit, and get ready to discover the magic of this extraordinary country!