For the second consecutive year, Marrakech has secured the top spot in the prestigious “World’s Best Awards” ranking by Travel + Leisure, celebrating the favorite cities of the American travel magazine’s readers in Africa and the Middle East.
In addition to Marrakech, two other Moroccan cities, Fes and Essaouira, also made it into the top 10 of this ranking, highlighting the richness and diversity of the Kingdom’s tourism offer.
Marrakech Tops the Rankings
With its timeless charm and cultural vibrancy, Marrakech continues to captivate Travel + Leisure readers, who once again voted the ocher city as their favorite destination in Africa and the MENA region.
“Nestled at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Morocco. ‘OMG Marrakech, it’s a hidden gem,’ exclaimed one reader. ‘Every place is an explosion of the senses… all these secret spots, unexpected discoveries, glamorous on one side and modest on the other.’ The city beautifully combines the old and the new, becoming a favorite destination for art and design enthusiasts with the recent openings of boutique hotels like Riad Dar Dada and Izza, and its dynamic list of museums and art galleries. Travelers also enjoy the narrow streets of the medina, historic hammams, and impressive riads. One voter wrote: ‘Souks and spices. Camels and donkeys. At the main souk, if you can’t find what you’re looking for, it’s not made’,” reported Travel + Leisure.
Surpassing Dubai and Cape Town
In this highly competitive ranking, Marrakech has outshone iconic metropolises like Dubai and Cape Town. Dubai, known for its futuristic skyscrapers and ostentatious luxury, was overshadowed by Marrakech’s authentic charm and rich history. Cape Town, with its spectacular landscapes and renowned vineyards, took second place this year.
Fes and Essaouira Also in the Top 10
Besides Marrakech, two other Moroccan cities stood out in the 2024 “World’s Best Awards” ranking, demonstrating the diversity and cultural richness of Morocco. Fes, often described as a “treasure of culture and history,” took sixth place thanks to its historical heritage and medieval streets. Essaouira, with its coastal charm and bohemian atmosphere, secured the seventh position.
“World’s Best Awards” 2024 Ranking: Remarkable Urban Diversity
This year’s “World’s Best Awards” ranking highlights an incredible diversity of cities across Africa and the Middle East. Over 186,000 Travel + Leisure readers participated in the 2024 survey, expressing their opinions on hotels, cities, and cruise lines. The cities were evaluated based on specific criteria such as sites and landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value.
