Morocco
Egypt's desert and grand architecture, on a much shorter, cheaper flight from Europe
Estimated daily budget
€25–50
Estimated 7-day budget (flights excluded)
€175–350
Why it's an alternative to Egypt
Desert landscapes, monumental Islamic architecture and traditional markets, on a short, affordable flight from Spain.
If what draws you to Egypt is desert, souks and monumental Islamic architecture, Morocco delivers a similar desert-and-markets experience on a flight of under three hours from Spain.
We're not saying they're identical — they share the core experience you're after, with their own differences.
Must-see spots
Marrakech
Souks, the Jemaa el-Fna square and gardens like Majorelle — the classic entry point.
Merzouga Desert
Sahara dunes reachable via a route over the Atlas Mountains, great for a night in a desert camp.
Chefchaouen
The Rif Mountains' 'blue city' — one of the country's most photogenic towns.
Things to do
- • Get lost in Marrakech's souks
- • Cross the Atlas to the Merzouga desert
- • Wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen
- • Visit the Todra Gorge
- • Enjoy a traditional dinner with live music in a riad
Morocco vs Egypt
Morocco
Egypt 🇪🇬
7-day cost
€175–350
7-day cost
Typically much higher (check current prices)
Crowds
Medium — getting known, but with plenty of uncrowded corners
Crowds
High during peak season
The experience
Desert landscapes, monumental Islamic architecture and traditional markets, on a short, affordable flight from Spain.
The experience
The original — hence the fame, and the price tag
Estimated total incl. flights
vs Egypt
You save approximately €938 (~72%)
Estimated budget for 7 days
Flights not included. These are rough estimates and can vary depending on dates and travel style.
What stands out
- +Marrakech, Fez and the Sahara all in one trip
- +Wonderfully varied food
- +Cheap flights from Europe
Worth knowing
- –Marrakech and Chefchaouen get crowded in peak season
- –Constant haggling can wear some travelers down
Best time to visit
Mediterranean in the north, desert further south, cold in the Atlas Mountains during winter.
Who it's for
- 👤 Travelers who want desert and culture without a long-haul flight
- 👤 Photographers and souk lovers
- 👤 Anyone looking for a first taste of the Arab world
Safety
Safe for tourists; be alert to the usual souk and station scams.