We weren’t even halfway through the year and it was already clear that in 2025 Morocco had broken every record for tourist arrivals, with Marrakech confirmed as the favorite destination of millions of travelers from all over the world. I know you’re not surprised, especially those of you lucky enough to have visited Marrakech while trying not to add to the city’s overtourism.
The Red City, one of the country’s four imperial cities, enchants with its vibrant medina, the colors of its souks, the scent of spices and the unstoppable energy of Jemaa el-Fna Square. But, as often happens in very touristy places, great success also brings some side effects.
If you’ve landed on my blog, you’re probably (also) interested in planning your trip to Morocco without stress or hassle, and you’re looking for the best solution. Of course there is one: choosing other airports, perhaps less overused but just as strategic, and making the most of it to discover equally fascinating corners of the country.
Many airports in Italy and across Europe offer low-cost flights to Morocco landing at other equally convenient airports. And I won’t just recommend flights: below I’ll also give you some tips on the best places to explore nearby.
In short, no stress: leave it all to Lisa!
Flying to Morocco: land in Agadir
Among the many direct flights to Morocco from Italy and the rest of Europe, some land at Agadir Al Massira Airport. Landing here is a great alternative for anyone who wants to discover southern Morocco without starting in chaotic Marrakech, easing in with a relaxing first stop by the sea.
The city is known for its long coastline, its Atlantic beaches and its relaxed atmosphere, perfect for recovering from the journey. But Agadir is also a great starting point for more authentic adventures: from here you can visit Taroudant, a sort of “mini-Marrakech” still off the mass-tourism track, or head to Tafraout, in the heart of the Anti-Atlas, among pink rocks and palm groves.
Another advantage? Agadir is about 3 hours by car from Marrakech, so you can still add it to your itinerary later on, perhaps after discovering quieter areas.
Flying to Morocco: land in Essaouira
Other seasonal flights, direct or with a layover, will land you in Essaouira, a gem of Morocco’s Atlantic coast, famous for its picturesque harbor and windswept ramparts. Its small international airport is efficiently run, so it’s perfect if you want to avoid the busiest airports.
Once you land, you can spend a couple of days exploring the medina, surfing or simply relaxing among art galleries, cafés and ocean sunsets. Essaouira is about 2.5 hours from Marrakech, and you can easily get there with the transfer service included in my tours. A great idea is to start your Moroccan trip here, then head inland or toward Agadir.
Flying to Morocco: land in Fez
Landing at Fez–Saïss Airport is another ideal entry point for anyone who wants to discover a more authentic, traditional Morocco. Fez is one of the country’s imperial cities, with a UNESCO World Heritage medina considered one of the largest and best preserved in the Arab world. Here time seems to stand still: no cars, just narrow alleys, artisans at work, madrasas and caravanserais.
The airport is convenient, well organized and generally less chaotic than Marrakech. From Fez you can easily plan an itinerary to Meknes and Volubilis, or venture into the Middle Atlas, among cedar forests and Berber villages.
Flying to Morocco: land in Casablanca
Although less charming than other Moroccan cities, Casablanca is a big metropolis with a modern, spacious airport well served by many international and domestic flights. Once you land, you’ll hop on the transfer that will take you comfortably and stress-free to the city center and the country’s main destinations.
You can take the opportunity to visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, or head to Rabat, El Jadida or the Atlantic coast. Casablanca is also a good starting point for heading south to Marrakech, passing through less touristy towns along the way.
Flying to Morocco: land in Ouarzazate
Known as the gateway to the desert, Ouarzazate is another interesting destination for anyone who wants to explore Morocco’s wilder side. There are no direct flights from Italy, but you can get there on domestic flights from Casablanca or Marrakech, or by private transfer from Marrakech. As the gateway to the Sahara, Ouarzazate is one of Morocco’s most evocative cities, often chosen as the main stop by travelers who have already visited Marrakech or want to skip it.
From there you can start your journey into the heart of the desert lands, visiting magical places like Aït Benhaddou, the Draa Valley and the dunes of Merzouga.
Part of Morocco’s real beauty lies in its variety of landscapes and travel options. If you’re looking for a vacation away from the crowds, just plan ahead and be willing to step off the usual circuits. I promise you’ll discover a completely unexpected side of Morocco.
Lisa
