Morocco is a land of contrasts, from ancient cities and narrow streets to beach resorts, searing deserts and high mountain ranges. Choosing where to stay will take some careful planning, but the decision can be made easier if you have a plan in mind.

The most visited city in Morocco is Marrakech. This ancient city has many tourist attractions, great hotels, restaurants, a traditional souk and entertaining nightlife. It is also easy to reach, and centrally-located meaning you can easily take day trips to other regions while using it as a base.

The other popular, but smaller, city is Fez. This ancient capital is picture-perfect and full of smells, sounds and colours evocative of North Africa. Its architecture is some of the best in the country, and the hotels, street food and attractions are among the country’s best.

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The large cities of Casablanca, Tangier and Rabat all have sights to explore, fine hotels and eating options, but are not as popular among visitors to Morocco.

Along Morocco’s west coast are the Atlantic beach resorts towns. Essaouira has all you’d expect from the country, like a medina and traditional architecture, but it feels more European and has many beach resorts to enjoy.

Similarly, Agadir is more modern than much of the rest of Morocco. But it has a fantastic beach setting with many relaxing resorts to enjoy.

Then there’s the mountains and deserts of inland, southern Morocco. This region is home to the mountain Berber tribes and their traditional culture which can be seen and experienced in villages all over the rocky and sandy landscape. A good place to base yourself is at Ouarzazate, a town with good hotels and amenities, and which is closer to the mountains than Marrakech. The High Atlas is a UNESCO World Heritage region where you’ll see mud buildings, old souks and wonderful vistas. It’s easiest to visit as part of a day tour, but you can stay in the many desert and mountain accommodation options to enjoy the region to its best.