Following the Footsteps of Filmmakers: Morocco's Iconic Movie Locations You Can Visit

Morocco has a way of convincing Hollywood that it can be anywhere. Need a medieval fantasy city? Morocco has it. A sprawling desert for epic battle scenes? No problem. A gritty 1950s spy thriller setting? Right this way. With its stunning landscapes and ancient cities, Morocco has played the role of just about every corner of the world—except, perhaps, Antarctica.

If you've ever wanted to step into the frame of your favorite films and TV shows, pack your bags. Here's where you can find Morocco's most iconic movie locations and maybe even re-enact a scene or two (preferably without getting arrested).

Essaouira: Where Westeros Meets the Atlantic

When *Game of Thrones* needed a perfect, windswept coastal city for the free city of Astapor, Morocco was happy to oblige. Essaouira, a UNESCO-listed fortress town on the Atlantic, became the backdrop for some of Daenerys Targaryen's most memorable moments—like when she casually acquired an army by tricking a slave trader.

Wander through the Skala de la Ville, the fortified sea wall lined with massive cannons, and you'll recognize it instantly from the show. Unlike in *Game of Thrones*, however, you won't find any fire-breathing dragons here—just a lot of seagulls who behave as if they own the place. Pro tip: if you stand still with a sandwich in hand, you'll learn what true terror feels like.

Ouarzazate: Hollywood's Go-To Desert

If Morocco is Hollywood's favorite filming location, then Ouarzazate is the VIP section. Dubbed the "Gateway to the Sahara," this town has served as the backdrop for *Gladiator*, *Kingdom of Heaven*, *The Mummy*, and approximately one million other historical epics.

Aït Benhaddou, the iconic earthen fortress just outside of town, is a star in its own right. This ancient ksar (fortified village) has been in so many movies that it probably deserves its own IMDb page. Walk through its dusty, maze-like alleys and try to resist the urge to dramatically stare into the distance, imagining yourself as Russell Crowe in full gladiator mode.

For an even deeper dive into Morocco's film industry, head to Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world. Here, you'll find massive sets used for everything from biblical epics to futuristic sci-fi flicks. And yes, you can take a selfie on a replica of an ancient Egyptian temple—because nothing says "vacation" like pretending to be a pharaoh.

Casablanca: No, They Didn't Film It Here

You'd think the legendary film *Casablanca* would have been filmed in, well, Casablanca. But nope—Hollywood shot the entire thing on a soundstage in California. However, don't let that stop you from visiting Rick's Café, a real-life recreation of the famous bar from the movie.

Opened in 2004, Rick's Café is a nostalgic tribute to the classic film, complete with a grand piano and a menu that will have you feeling like you've stepped into black-and-white cinema. It's a bit touristy, sure, but when the pianist starts playing *As Time Goes By*, you might just find yourself believing that Humphrey Bogart is about to walk through the door.

Marrakech: A City That Plays Itself

Unlike some of the other locations on this list, Marrakech doesn't have to pretend to be somewhere else. Filmmakers love it just as it is—bustling, vibrant, and slightly chaotic in the best possible way. From Hitchcock's *The Man Who Knew Too Much* to *Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation*, the city's medina, souks, and grand palaces have made for perfect cinematic backdrops.

One of the most visually stunning locations is the Bahia Palace, an opulent 19th-century masterpiece that's been used in multiple productions. Walk through its intricately tiled courtyards, and you'll see why directors can't resist filming here.

For a more action-packed experience, you could always take a high-speed chase through Jemaa el-Fnaa square like Tom Cruise in *Mission: Impossible*. On second thought, maybe just stick to sipping mint tea and watching the street performers. It's safer.

Merzouga: Where Sand Dunes Steal the Show

If a film features endless golden dunes and a protagonist dramatically trudging through the desert, there's a solid chance it was shot near Merzouga. This tiny village on the edge of the Sahara has provided the perfect cinematic wasteland for movies like *Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time* and *The Mummy*.

Standing atop the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi, it's easy to see why directors are drawn here. The landscape looks straight out of another world—especially at sunrise and sunset, when the sand glows in shades of orange and red. Just be prepared for the wind. Nothing ruins a dramatic desert moment like getting a face full of sand.

For those looking to experience the big-screen magic up close, camel trekking into the dunes for a night under the stars is a must. Bonus points if you manage to make it look effortlessly cinematic while riding a camel—though chances are, you'll just end up looking like an extra in a blooper reel.

Chefchaouen: Morocco's Most Photogenic Secret Agent

Not all Moroccan film locations are in the desert. Enter Chefchaouen, the country's famously blue-washed city tucked into the Rif Mountains. It's so striking that it's been featured in everything from travel documentaries to spy thrillers, including *American Assassin*.

Wandering through Chefchaouen feels like stepping into a surreal dream sequence where everything is painted in shades of blue. The narrow streets, quaint staircases, and hidden courtyards all scream "cinematic perfection." And if you're lucky, you might even stumble upon a local cat sitting perfectly posed in a sunbeam—because this city somehow makes even stray cats look like professional models.

Where History and Hollywood Collide

Morocco's ability to transport viewers to different times and places is what keeps filmmakers coming back. From the ancient kasbahs of Ouarzazate to the windswept walls of Essaouira, these locations aren't just film sets—they're living, breathing pieces of history.

Visiting them isn't just about geeking out over movie trivia (though, let's be honest, that's a big part of it). It's about standing in places that have witnessed centuries of real-life drama long before the cameras started rolling. And if you happen to snap a few dramatic, movie-inspired selfies along the way? Well, let's just say Hollywood would approve.

Article kindly provided by gateway2morocco.com