Morocco: Tangier & the Blue City

Situated on Morocco's Atlantic coast, Casablanca pulses with a modern energy, yet whispers of its romantic past, fictionalized by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman on the silver screen in the 1940s, still linger.

Your savvy local guide reveals Casablanca's most magical corners, including the stunning Hassan II Mosque, the tallest religious structure in the world. Take in the mosque's intricate mosaics, towering minaret and massive interior. Next, board a high-speed train to Tangier, the storied city that helps define the north of Morocco and serves as a gateway to Europe. Appealing and cosmopolitan, with mixtures of Moroccan, African and European influences, Tangier is a melting pot of cultures. Contrary to popular belief, the movie Casablanca was based on Tangier and its reputation as the city of spies.

Explore Tangier's old citadel and its kasbah, where you visit the Kasbah Museum, home to a large mosaiced courtyard and a gilded, illuminated Koran. Afterward, stroll through the Old Medina and the bustling Grand Socco (souk). Stop at the American Legation, a museum that traces the history of the relationship between the United States and Morocco. Continue to Moshe Nahon, one of the most beautiful synagogues in Morocco. Finally, visit Cap Spartel, a promontory covered with rockrose and cork oaks.

Set out for Chefchaouen's medina, its old town renowned the world over for its brilliantly painted sky-blue buildings. Stroll atmospheric alleyways lined with cafés, absorbing the unique vibe of Morocco's Blue City. Then, continue to Fez.

Nestled in the fertile Saïs Plain at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Fez is a medieval maze of ochre alleyways bustling with commerce, unchanged for centuries. The city, home to the world's oldest operating university, Al Karaouine, showcases a rich heritage of learning and craftsmanship. Wandering these labyrinthine streets offers a glimpse into Morocco's enduring soul, where traditions are not only cherished but continue to thrive.

Rising out of a plain outside Meknes, the ancient Berber-Roman ruins of Volubilis come as a surprise. In the first century, Volubilis was a thriving Roman outpost — the most far-flung of the entire empire. Here, discover the amazing mosaic floors of former family dwellings. At a nearby vineyard, discover the best of Château Roslane's wine cellars over a three-course meal paired with their renowned Syrah and Chenin Blanc wines.

Rabat, Morocco's capital on the Atlantic coast, exudes sophistication with its blend of historic and contemporary elements. Discover the Moorish 12th-century Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the last Sultan of Morocco. In the Oudaya Kasbah, wander through narrow streets adorned with blue-and-white houses, explore the Oudaya Museum's historical artifacts, relax in the serene Andalusian Gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic from the Kasbah's ramparts.

Framed by the rippling High Atlas Mountains, the Red City exudes a romance as steady and undimmed as the souk lanterns pouring honeyed light into Jemma El-Fnaa square after dark. A warren of subterranean galleries, rooftop restaurants and exquisite riads guarding their treasures behind ornately carved doors, the medina of Marrakech excels at keeping secrets. Begin your adventure in the beguiling Jardin Majorelle, a picturesque garden restored by design legend Yves Saint Laurent. Stop at the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum for a close look at some of the famed designer's creations. Continue to the walled medina and its soaring Koutoubia minaret. Next, explore Bahia Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece of design and Ben Youssef Madrasa, a Koranic school renowned for its magnificent architecture.

Later visit Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech's main square bustling with vendors, acrobats, dancers, street musicians and snake charmers performing at every turn. You may also opt to stroll the city's fabled, labyrinthine souks.

Today, choose from these Design Your Day activities:

• Unearth Another Side of Morocco, viewing daily life amid the gorgeous Atlas Mountains.
• Discover the Agafay Desert of Stone, taking in its serene red-rock splendors outside Marrakech.
• Learn to Cook With Moroccan Spices during a cooking demonstration and tasting.

Later, gather for a farewell dinner accompanied by a traditional gnaoua band.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.