Looking forward to hearing the opinions. My wife and I have 9 nights to plan in October. Figuring on two nights each for Fez, Rabat, Marrakech, and a trek/desert tour between Fez and Marrakech.

My debate is the final night... do I add it to one of the above or spend a night in Essaouria or somewhere else.

I would give more time for Fez, less time for Marrakesh. Essaouira is a nice place to rest up, less "Moroccan" than the other places. I found Rabat a good intro city (click on my name for my TR).

Trains are fine, although may not be spot on time, guide not necessary if you're just doing the cities, might be good if you're doing the desert.

We personally enjoyed having a guide to take us through the medinas of Fez and Marrakech. Allowed us to learn so much and be able to look at everything without getting lost (which we did the first day in Marrakech, outside the medina when we were exploring on our own). Our guide in Marrakech was someone recommended by our riad. For the rest of our trip Ouzarzate, Merzouga (desert) and Fez we loved our guide Zaid with BlueMenofMorocco.com.

Here is a link to my trip report which includes pictures:
http://www.fromhometoroam.com/category/travels/africa/morocco/

@ JGG
I loved the HOMETOROAM web site, and I must tell you that I did read your report (appreciated the detail SO much, so thanks for volunteering your time to help others!) with great interest.

@ THURSDAYSD

Thanks this may encourage me to skip Essaouria altogether...may not be worth time investment to get there for such a short vacation.

I am also interested in exploring the Jewish Quarter & history there, so welcome other input from all. THANKS AGAIN!

baroness - so glad you enjoyed the site and that it was helpful!! Happy planning!

I found Essaouira a nice place to chill after the more intense experiences of Fez and Marrakech. I also thought the site was beautiful and dramatic. Rabat was a little, oh, staid. It's a pleasant place but not really geared for the tourist. See my rather perfunctory trip report for more detail.

You are correct that the drive from Marrakech to Fes is quite long and interesting only in parts. The train, unfortunately, runs Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Fes -- so there is bound to be some backtracking somewhere. Essaouira is not on the line and is reached by bus -- Sopratour is comfortable from Marrakech.

Just one more SINCERE thank you to all who took time to share an opinion. I settled on Marrakesh, Rabat, Fes, and High Atlas Mountain area.....excited to meet some local people and learn more about the customs !! Thank you again!