We've compiled a list of recommendations for places to visit in Morocco and Europe from our own personal travels together. We hope you find these useful if you're planning to explore and travel before/after our wedding weekend!

Rich with Islamic history and beautiful Moroccan architecture, Marrakech has much to offer if you choose to stay local. Stay in a riad, explore the Medina (Old City), and walk by historic souks (markets). Be sure to check out our favorite museum and coffee shop (photos below): Dar El Bacha!

We haven't visited visited these cities (yet!), but Morocco has more destinations than just Marrakech. You can take a romantic trip to coastal Casablanca (pic 1) or experience the culture in the "Athens of Africa" and stop by Fez (pic 2). Forget the white-washed walls of Santorini -- go see the beautiful "Blue City" that is Chefchaouen (pic 3).

Note: These are not our photos, unlike the rest on this page!

Lisbon was the first city abroad we traveled to together. With direct flights to Marrakech and multiple US cities, Lisbon is an easy city to fit into your plans -- and very much worth it! Walk the hilly streets to the coast, tour castles in the middle of the city, and listen to traditional Fado music in the Alfama district after a world-class dinner.

If you're looking for something a little more relaxing, Portugal has several islands that are well known for beaches, hiking, and diving! Madeira is irresistibly scenic (pics 1 and 2) and is a must-visit for any seafood lovers. The Azores (pic 3) are a renowned megafauna diving location, and Samir regrets that he has dived in Madeira and the Canaries but not here.

Do we even need to explain? Go see the iconic buildings, visit the British Museum, and make sure to stop by Dishoom (get the bun maska chai).

Oh, and of course we visited Platform 9 3/4 while we were there.

Naureen's first experience staying a hostel could not have been in a more fun and cosmopolitan city. Art lovers can spend hours at the Picasso Museum while food lovers eat their way, tapas-style, through the city, but everyone should visit the Sagrada Familia for a jaw-dropping architectural experience (trust us, go inside).

What originally inspired this Morocco wedding -- our trip to Andalusia in May 2023 made us fall in love with Moorish architecture and history. Málaga (pic 1) is still Samir's pick for favorite city, and the Alhambra in Granada (pic 2) and the Great Mosque in Córdoba (pic 3) are both just a train ride away!